Run Mommy Run 4

Recipe #7

2012-02-07T15:30:00.000-05:00

This a super easy snack

EASY CHEESY CRACKERS - this recipe is from 100 days of real food

Ingredients :

1 Cup Whole wheat flour

5 Tablespoons Cold Butter, cut into tablespoons size chunks

4 oz or 1 1/2 cups of grated Cheddar cheese. The sharper the cheese the better

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350

2. Combine all three ingredients in a food processor bowl. The mixture will eventually turn into a big ball chasing itself around the bowl. Be patient because this does take a few minutes.

3. Roll into a log and 1 1/2 in in diameter. At this point you could refrigerate the dough until later use or continue on.

4. With a sharp knife cut 1/2' thick pieces off the log and place them flat on an ungreased baking sheet.

5. If you want them to look fancy you can flatten them with a fork like mine, or cut with a cookie cutter.

6. Bake 8-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown. The thicker the cracker the longer the bake time.

Alterations:

The only thing I altered was I didn't have Cheddar cheese but I had mozzarella .

Price Breakdown:

1 cup flour .30

5 Tbsp butter .31

4 oz cheese .50

Total- $1.11 The recipe said it would make 24 , I think I got about 50 (sorry started eating them before I counted them. ) I don't know about you but I think this is a fairly cheap and healthy snack ( compared to its counter part Cheez-it)

Recipe #6

2012-01-31T14:49:00.000-05:00

Blueberry Lemon Muffins

These things are soooo good, my kids request these all the time.

1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
4 Tablespoons soft tub margarine, chilled
1 cup lowfat lemon yogurt
1 cup blueberries
1/2 cup of yellow squash puree
1 large egg
2 teaspoons pure lemon extract
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 cups all purpose flour
1/4 cup flaxseed meal
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

1) Preheat ovet ot 350. Coat 12 cup muffin tin with cooking spray or line with paper cups.
2) In a large bowl, beat the sugar and the margarine with a wooden spoon. Stir in the yogurt, blueberries, yellow squash puree, egg, lemon extract and lemon zest.
3) Add the flour, flaxseed meal, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Stir just to combine, but do not overmix- the batter is supposed to be lumpy.
4) Divide the batter among the muffin cups. Bake until the top of the muffins are lightly browned and a toothpick come out clean. 13- 16 minutes. Turn muffins onto a rack to cool
5) Store in an airtight container at room tempearture for up to 2 days. Or wrap and freeze.

Alterations:
1) I always double this recipe when I make it (because we eat them so fast)
2) When doubled I only put in 3/4 of a cup of brown sugar
3) I use lemon Greek yogurt
4) I didnt have any lemon extract , so I just added lemon juice
5) I use Whole Wheat flour
6) I didn't have anymore yellow squash, so I used pureed zucchini in instead

Price breakdown for a double batch ( which yielded me 39 muffins)
3/4 cup brown sugar - .50
2 Greek lemon yogurt - 2.00
Blueberries- 1.00 ( not exactly sure as these were frozen from the summer)
Zuchinni - ? ( not exactly sure as this was taken out of garden and pureed)
4 cups of flour- 1.20
1/2 cup of flaxseed- 1.87
2 eggs- .16

Approx total ( as I dont have the exact prices of some of the stuff, but you will get the idea) $6.73 This amount made 39 muffins = .17/ muffin

Yummy!!!! I will say though, eat them fast or freeze them. There are so many fresh ingredients in this recipe they will start to go bad after 2 days if not frozen. But most of the time we eat them that fast.

Recipe #5

2012-01-23T09:28:00.000-05:00

Granola Bars-

These are one of our favorite snack treats in our house. As fast as I make them they disappear.

2 cups rolled oats
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup wheat germ
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup all purpose flour
3/4 cup raisins
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup honey
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x13 pan
2. In large bowl, mix together the oats, brown sugar, wheat germ, cinnamon, flour, raisins and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the honey, egg , oil and vanilla. Mix well using your hands. Pat the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
3. Bake 30 to 35 minutes in a preheated oven, until the bars begin to turn golden at the edges. Cool for 5 minutes, then cut the bars while still warm. Do not allow the bars to coll completely before cutting or they will be to hard to cut.    ( my bars were done in 20 minutes)

Alterations :

1) I use Whole Wheat Flour
2) I only use 1/2 cup of Brown Sugar
3) Instead of 1/2 cup vegetable oil, I use 12 Tbs Flaxseed and 1/4 cup oil. If I double the recipe , instead of 1/2 cup of oil I will use 1/4 applesauce and 1/4 cup of oil , along with double flaxseed
4) Instead of raisins I have put cranberries, peanut butter, jelly, chocolate chips, plain. This addition is wide open.

Price Breakdown: for a double batch    Depending upon where and how you shop your prices may vary

Oatmeal -. 53
Brown Sugar - .50
Wheat Germ - .90
Flour- .30
Raisins - . 93
Honey- 1.92
Egg- .16
Flaxseed - 1.87
Total cost = $7.11      This makes approx 34 granola bar squares. = .20 a piece.

This can be made ahead and froze.
This was requested by my 6 year old for his class snack. He took it in and returned home with an empty container.

People often ask : What do your kids eat for snacks? These are 2 different plates that were served to my kids after school, on different days . My 4 year old said " Mom, there are some awesome foods on this plate"

Dinner Recipe #4

2012-01-16T13:24:00.000-05:00

Pizza Dough / Pizza

This is the recipe I follow

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour, divided (or mix or whole-wheat and all-purpose flour)
1 package active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (about 105-100 degrees)
1 teaspoon honey
2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon salt

In a large bowl , combine the water, yeast , honey and 1 tablespoon oil, stirring to combine. Let sit until the mixture is foamy, about 5 minutes

Add 1 1/2 cups of the flour and the salt, mixing by hand until it is all incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Continue adding the flour , 1/4 cup at a time, working the dough after each addition, until the dough is smooth but still slightly sticky. You may not need all the flour. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth but still slightly tacky.

Oil a large mixing bowl with remaining olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat with oil. Cover with plastic wrap and set in a warm place, free from drafts until doubled in size, about 1 1/2 hours.

Preheat oven to 375
Remove risen dough from bowl and roll out on slightly greased pizza pan.    Bake for 14 minutes ( so dough can precook). Take out of oven and add sauce, cheese , your favorite toppings. Place back in oven and cook for 15 minutes (or until cheese is melted)

Alterations:
1) I use all whole wheat flour
2) I make 2 pizzas at a time. Do not double the recipe as the dough will be to hard to work with but just have 2 bowls going at the same time.

This week we just made simple pepperoni pizzas
Here is the price breakdown (for 2 pizzas) . Depending upon where and how you shop your price may vary

Yeast - .12
Honey - .08
6 cups of flour - .90
1 pound of cheese- $2
sauce - $1
package of pepperoni - $1

Total cost for 2 pizzas - $5.10       or $2.05/ per pizza.     Depending upon how large you cut your pieces your serving size can vary. But we made this on Saturday, fed 5 kids and 2 adults and still had pizza left over.

Dinner Recipe #3

2012-01-14T18:12:00.001-05:00

Green Lake Chicken Casserole
This is one of our family favorites - everyone will eat this!!! Our kids call this "Grandmas Chicken Casserole", because their great grandma makes it all the time.

Original Recipe
4 cups diced cooked chicken
2 cups diced celery (saute)
1 Tpsn Diced onion (saute)
1 can sliced water chestnuts
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup mayonnaise
1 Tpsn lemon juice
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp salt
2 cans cream of chicken soup
4 Tpsn butter
1 cups sliced almonds
2 cups crushed corn flakes (or like cereal)

1) Toss together everything except the last 3 ingredients. Place in a 9x13 pan
2)Melt butter and mix with almonds and corn flakes. Put over chicken mixtures
Bake at 350 for 45 minutes

Alterations that I made to original
1) Chicken I just cut up 1.5 pounds ( I think it was just shy of 2.5 cups worth )
2) Used 1/2 cup of diced onion
3) Didn't put almonds on top (because we ate them all before they went on the dinner)

Your family can help by mixing all the ingredients together and mixing together the butter/ almond/ corn flake mixture.

Here is the price breakdown. Depending up where and when you shop your price may vary.

1.5 pounds chicken - $1.80
2 cups celery - $ .50
1/2 cup onion - $.40
water chestnuts - $.79
2 cups rice - $.84
1 cup mayo - $1.00
2 cans cream of chicken- $1.58
2 cups crushed corn flakes - $. 60

Total =$7.51 This was for a 9x13 pan (approx 12 servings) We ate half the pan and had half left over . $.63 per serving.

This meal freezes well; I usually make 2 pans at a time and freeze one for later use.
Sorry made this last night and was in a hurry and didn't get a chance to take a picture.

Dinner Recipe #2

2012-01-12T09:12:00.000-05:00

Next Healthy Budget Friendly dinner : Homemade Pasties

For those that do not know what Pasties are: Pasties were a must years ago when men worked the mines in Northern Michigan. The housewives made them in the morning and wrapped them tightly in newspaper so they would stay warm until lunch break.

Original Recipe:
5 Servings

3 cups cubed peeled potatoes
1 cup chopped carrots
1 medium onion, chopped
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 pound ground beef (uncooked)
1/4 pound ground pork (uncooked)
1 Tablespoon butter, melted

Pastry:
4 cups all purpose flour
1-1/4 teaspoons salt
1 cup shortening
3/4 cup water

1) In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, carrots,onion, salt and pepper. Crumble beef and pork over the potato mixture and mix well. Add butter and toss to coat. Set aside
2) For Pastry, in a large bole, combine flour and salt. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs Gradually add water, tossing with a fork until a ball forms.
3)Divide dough into five portions; roll each into a 10 in circle. Place 1 cup of filling in the center of each circle. Fold pastry over filling and seal edges tightly with a fork; cut slits in the top of each.
4)Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 374 for 50-60 minutes until golden brown.

Alterations that I made to the original recipe.
1) I doubled the entire recipe
2) Although I have made this with beef and pork before, I made it with chicken this time because it was more budget friendly.    So I used 1.5 pounds of very tiny cubed chicken
3) Anyone that has eaten pasties for the Upper Peninsula of Michigan knows that you need to add Rutabaga to get the " authentic taste." I used 1 rutabaga (which gave me 4 cups). So then I cut up 2 potatoes to make up 2 cups.- instead of having 6 cups of potatoes.
4) I used half WW flour and half All purpose flour. Although it is healthier to use all WW, I find that sometimes it makes pastries very dense
5) I used no shortening. I substituted half coconut oil and the half butter
6) Also we decided from previous times that we have made it that we do not like large pasties, we would much rather make smaller ones. So I made 5 in circles and put in 1/2 cup of mixture. This mixture ended up yielding us 23 small pasties.

Your family can help with this one by :
1) rolling out the dough
2) mixing up the ingredients
3) folding over the dough and making the cute pasties

Here is the price breakdown. Depending upon where and when you shop your prices may vary. But this is what this meal cost me.

1lb carrots (2 cups)- .33
1 Rutabaga- $1.89
2 Potatoes - .23
1/2 onion - .50
1.5 lb chicken- $1.80
8 cups of flour (half WW, half All Purpose)- $1.20
1 cup butter- $1.00
1 cup coconut oil - $1.87

Total Cost = $8.52       For a total of 23 servings =.37 per servings

We ate 8 for dinner. Then I froze 8 and left the other 7 in fridge for dinner/snacks later this week.    So really for $8.52, I could get 3 full meals out this

I will say that this is a labor intensive recipe; in the fact that you have to roll out the dough. If you get help it will go by faster. And if you do what I did (double and make them smaller) with end up with at least 2 if not 3 meals worth.

Dinner Recipe #1

2012-01-11T17:29:00.001-05:00

This is the start of my recipe series- Healthy Dinners on a Budget.
As we all try to say fit with exercise we have to make sure that we maintain a healthy diet also. The trickiest part is getting your family to go along. I hope in posting some of these recipes I can show you how I incorporate both.

First recipe Chicken Lasagna Rolls

Serves 8
Original Recipe:
8 Lasagna Noodles
2 Eggs
2 Cups of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1 Container (15 oz) of Ricotta Cheese
3/4 cup Parsley chopped
1 cooked Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast ( 8 oz)
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp basil
1/8 tsp pepper
1 jar of spaghetti sauce ( you could also use Alfredo Sauce)

Preheat oven to 350. Cook and drain the pasta according to package directions. In large bowl combine eggs, cheeses, 1/2 cup parsley, chicken, salt, basil and pepper. Spread about 1/3 cup cheese mixture on each lasagna noodle. Roll up in a jelly roll fashion. Cut each roll in half. Arrange rolls in a single layer in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spoon Sauce over top; cover with foil. Bake in oven for 45 minutes or until heated through.

I made some alternations to the original recipe:
1) WW Lasagna Noodles
2) Cottage Cheese instead of Ricotta Cheese (because the price of cottage cheese was half the price of Ricotta Cheese this week). They are great substitutions for eachother.
3) Not as much parsley because mine wasn't fresh.

Your kids can help with this meal buy mixing up the cheese mixture and helping out rolling up the lasagna noodles.

Check out the price break down of this meal (depending upon where you shop your prices may vary)

8oz of Chicken (.60)
Lasagna Noodles (.50) - I purchased the box for $1 but still have half of it left
Cottage Cheese (.75) - I purchased 24 oz container for $1 and only used 15 oz
Mozzarella Cheese ($1.00)
Egg - . 27 cents ( as I only used 2 out of the dozen)
Spaghetti Sauce - $1 ( I had my own canned, but I know you can purchase it for this price)

Total : $4.12 for a total of 8 servings that equals .52 a serving.

We all ate dinner and still have left overs for another day.

THANKFUL THURSDAY

2011-06-09T08:09:00.000-04:00

I AM CLEARED TO RUN!!!!! They said take it slow but I can start running again. YIPPEE!! Back at it I go.

Fantastic Friday

2011-05-20T08:32:00.000-04:00

Had my first day of physical therapy yesterday. One of the nice things is my therapist is a runner too; actually she was training for the same race as I ran BUT she got injured with only 2 weeks to go and was never able to complete the race. I do love that they are runners there though because they know how badly I want to get back out running again. They said hopefully by the end of next month I will able to get back out there.

Not sure if you have ever been at a physical therapist before but the turn and stretch you in all directions to see where your strong points and weak points are. Very interesting thing they found out yesterday. The right side of my body is way stronger then the left of my body. Guess which side of my body is injured- LEFT. I told them I am not sure why , when I do my workouts I do everything symmetrically. She said she isn't sure why it is that way, but she knows how to fix it. YIPPEE.

I joked around because one of the 'tests' was having me walk on the treadmill, so that they could watch how I walk and all that jazz. I told them that that was cruel because my body was so excited to be back on the treadmill and then I just had to walk for 5 minutes at a whole 2.5 mph.

Have a FANTASTIC FRIDAY!!!

Hip Pain Solved

2011-05-18T13:19:00.000-04:00

So, just got back from the doctor- Greater Trochanter Bursitis and Hip Abductor Inflammation. The good thing, nothing serious. The bad thing no running for a while as the inflammation goes down. Nothing a little rest and physical therapy wont heal. Even though, I really want to run!!!!!! So I think I will try to use my "rest" time wisely and strengthen my core.

I am here!!!

2011-05-16T08:33:00.000-04:00

So, wow- it has been about a month since my last post. Bad bad blogger~~ The big question- WHAT HAPPENED DURING THE HALF MARATHON??   Well, lets just say I finished!!! I went into the race with one expectation- finish (hopefully pain free).   I finsihed but not pain free, so I guess I really cant argue.
Here are my miles splits from the race:

9:32, 9:26, 9:43, 9:55, 9:34, 10:43, 11:27: 12:23, 15:04, 15:37, 15:37, 17:22, 15:13 overall finish 2:41   ( 36 minutes off my PR, blah)   Ironically though, not my worst half marathon time either.

Can you tell when I started getting pain?? The first 5 miles were AWESOME!!! I was totally pain free, I was starting to think- I could PR I am feeling great, the weather is awesome. THEN mile 6 came and I got a searing pain in my hip, kind of like a knife was stabbing me. I knew that was the beggining of the end. I really didnt want to wreck myself for future races, so I just began run/ walking the race. Then as my thigh went numb I decided that I better walk more than run. I pretty much walked the whole back half of the course until I reached the 13 mile mark and then turned the burners on for the last .1 mile; which probably wasnt a good idea but I needed to have the picture of me running across the finish line.

So now I am waiting, I have a doctors appointment this week. I figured it is time to go see them, since I rested for 3 weeks and it still didnt go away something must be wrong. ARG!!!   I soooooooo soooooooo want to run.   I miss it so much!!!

Still working out but it is just not the same, keeping everything low impact.

I now need to find another half marathon to redeem my time (once my hip feels better).

On a great note- all "my fitness challengers" finished with flying colors. The ladies that ran the half marathon brought me to tears at the end of the race. They all had spectacular runs !! With the race being on Mothers Day, they had all told me before the race that they would have to run and then leave to attend functions that day. So, to my surprise as I crossed the finish line they were all there. They told me "We waited for you to cross the finish line, because you are what got us to cross the line". I was in so much pain and so much joy at the same time. These ladies will never know how much that meant to me!!! LOVE YOU!!!! Also, the one lady that ran her first ever Marathon, qualified for Boston- Can you believe that????? 1st shot out and qualifies; she had a hidden running talent. WAY TO GO HEATHER!!! To the 5K runners, you did amazing; giving it everything you had. YOU LADIES ALL DID INCREDIBLE!!!!

Have a Marvelous Monday!! I will let you know how my appointment goes later this week. Crazy crazy busy around here, coming into the end of the school year.

Few things Friday

2011-04-15T10:15:00.000-04:00

Thank you so much for all the kind words about my Marathon dilemma, they were all so very much appreciated!!    I have made a decision- I am officially changed over to run the half marathon. I know that I could do the marathon but it would not be pretty by any means and I would be wrecked for quite a while afterward. Plus, I respect that 26.2 miles to much to go into it under-trained.

I went out for a 3 mile run on Wednesday and it felt sooooo nice to be out in the absolutely gorgeous weather. I was trying to slow down and take it easy; oops that didn't happen. I ran the 3 miles in 26:45 (8:55 clip)    But my hip still hurts. So under advisement from my brother (who has run 10 marathons) I am not going to run at all from now until race day. This is going to be torture but I know that is the only way I am going to heal.    I am going to go out that day and just enjoy myself; time is out the window . Don't get me wrong, I would love to get a good time but I would much rather have a 'good time'. There are so many of you running this race - it is going to be fantastic!!   I figure it is Mothers Day- what a nice gift to give myself- heath and fitness!!!!!

So in the meantime, I am going to cross train and get my weight training routine back going again.   I have been kind of lax in that department lately, just started adding the weights back in and wow, what a difference that makes.

Have a Fantastic Friday!!!!

What to do??

2011-04-06T21:29:00.000-04:00

So my new shoes came yesterday!!! You would of thought I was a kid getting a new toy, I was clapping when I saw the Fed Ex truck pull up. The delivery guy said "You must really want what is in this box."    YES I DID!!!!     Wow, I put them on and oh man, you forget how much cushion is in a new pair of shoes. They felt sooooo good!!!

I went out for a run; hoping and praying that it would be pain free. New shoes and no running for a week should do that , right??? NO- I ran 5 miles with slight pain. Nothing that cold stopped me but the pain is still there. I was crushed and very disappointed. I ran the 5 miles in 48:15. Overall it was a really nice run (despite the pain) I noticed that if I tighten up my stride and concentrate on my arm swing (front to back vs side to side) things felt a little better.   But overall the pain is still there. After sleeping last night the pain is really still there-   darn hip!!!

So, what to do????? Run the marathon, run the half marathon??? I really really really want to run the marathon. But am I kidding myself. I have run a full marathon without training for the last six weeks before ( marathon #1 due to a torn IT band), so I know that it can be done. I really wanted to PR this time around .    So so frustrating.   Why is this decision so hard- really this is just a running race. It isnt an exam or anything.    My brother asked me this
                         "How much does this race mean to you?"
As he pointed out this wont be my last one, but I dont want to injure myself anymore than I already am.   So I have been thinking about this for the last few days -- how much does this mean to me????   Then it dawned on me on why I am having such a hard time with this decision.

I am in a MOPS group (Mothers of Preschoolers) and within this group I started a Fitness Challenge. Last year we ran a half marathon. This year there are 9 women that are running the Borgess Run for the Health of it events with me- 1 doing the full marathon, 3 doing the half marathon and 5 doing the 5K.     They have said that if it wasnt for me they would have never taken up running and believed that they could run so far. Oh man! What an honor!! I just get so emotional writing that. Then there is this- the shirts that we are all running in. We are all wearing matching shirts and they say on them   "Christa's Fitness Challenge" (and a bunch of other things). That is why this race means so much to me- 9 women trusted in me, believed me enough to put my name on their shirt. . They are running with my name on their shirt. Darn it, why does my hip have to hurt! ?!?!?!?!

So, I think I am just going to rest the hip- cross train, do a little running (maybe) and then go for the gusto on race day. Full Marathon!! Worst thing that could happen is I DNF. but I will know that I started it- and hopefully I will finish it.

Three Things Thursday

2011-03-31T15:04:00.000-04:00

1) It is Spring Break here- so the kids are home for the next 10 days. Hmmm what will we do????

2) Pain in the hip/ knee is still continuing. So so frustarting. I am taking the rest of the week off (again so furstrating) but I am waiting for new shoes to come in. I tallied up the mileage on my shoes and they have almost 370 miles on them. Time for some new ones. The local store didnt have the exact shoes that I wanted. This time around I didnt want to try on new shoes, I just want my 'old friends' (as my husband called them). Basically the same pair that I have worn for the last 2 marathons. I know they work, I dont want to change. So, I ordered them directly from Brooks- Adrenaline GTS 10. They shipped today, so hopefully I will be back out on the pavement soon.

3) Marathon is only 5 weeks from Sunday- wow!!! I am hoping this injury is just the shoes,not something else major- really want to run the marathon and not have to adjust my distance

12 miler complete!!!!

2011-03-27T11:47:00.000-04:00

I am so excited- I took the run outdoors. It was mighty cold , a whole 17 when I left the house. BUT it was SUNNY out, so that made it bearable. I took it nice and easy. I ran / walked the whole thing. My hip still hurt but I am deteremined to do this marathon. My goal for this run was to finish in 2:00- that would be a 10 min avg. Here are my splits
Mile 1 8:54 ( holy fast)
Mile 2 9:41
Mile 3 9:40
Mile 4 9:52
Mile 5 10:12
Mile 6 9:49
Mile 7 9:54
Mile 8 10:16
Mile 9 9:54
Mile 10 10:18
Mile 11 10:28
Mile 12 9:41

So overall, not my fastest splits; but I was trying to take it easy on my hip. Overall finsihing time
1:58:22
No argument!!!! Avg pace 9:53

Have a super Sunday!!!

Where have I been?

2011-03-25T13:22:00.000-04:00

Sorry, it has been a crazy week; bad blogging lately. We have just been very crazy busy. I am scared to say this, but I am actually looking forward to spring break, because there is nothing planned for the week. ( I am going to say that and then everyday is going to fill up)

1st and foremost I missed last weekends 16 mile run on purpose. My hip ( or whatever that area is called - the socket area around your thigh/ hip) has been hurting. I am thinking that it is because I have done so much training on the treadmill and then headed out doors with huge mileage runs. Or who knows, it could just be my body not liking something??? So anway, I rested it last weekend . I have done 8 and 5 mile runs this week. It still hurts, not as bad as last week but it still hurts. I am going to run the 12 scheduled for this weekend and see how it goes. It just really bumms me out- really come on. Why do I have to keep getting injured??? The joys of running ?!?! Only 6 weeks until the marathon, this cant be happening now. Looks like the weather should be nice this weekend, so I can take the run outdoors. Wish me luck!!!!

Have a fantastic Friday

Wow Wednesday!!!

2011-03-16T16:39:00.003-04:00

Hit the pavement running this morning, on this BEAUTIFUL DAY!!! 8 miles!!! My sister in law is letting me borrow her running watch so now I can see my mile splits. So fun
9:15, 9:39, 9:11, 9:16, 9:21, 8:58, 9:10 and 9:57 .

That last mile was silly, I stopped to walk for a few seconds and got lost in the beauty of the day. Total overall time 74:51 avg pace 9:21 Not going to argue at all. Enjoy this wonderful 'spring' day!!!

Super Sunday??? I will let you decide

2011-03-13T13:49:00.000-04:00

I am proud to announce that I went running outside today!!!! Yippee, that is so much nicer that running on the treadmill.    15 miles . These defiantly were not the prettiest 15 miles but overall I really cant complain.    I ran / walked the entire thing, not sure why but I decided that I was going to take that approach for this one (since 15 miles in starting to cross into the crazy mileage).    When I left the house my goal was 2:30, that is slower than I have been running on the treadmill but really that is my marathon pace goal. I would LOVE to finish the marathon with a 10min/ mile avg.

Everything was going great. I was holding just under a 10 min/ mile avg coming in mile 10. THEN things slowed down a bit. I started to get hip pain in my left side (the same pain I got on my 12 miler) and then I got a crazy shooting pain through my left knee. Now having had an IT injury before, I immediately stopped running and started walking for a bit. Not sure what that pain was about because after a short walk I resumed running the knee pain was gone; hip pain was still there but the knee pain went away. At about mile 13 I was losing steam really fast, I was really hungry ( realized fueling on pizza and milk shakes last night was not the best thing; of course I should know this as it is Marathon #3) . I pushed on though, only 2 miles to go.    As I said I wanted to finish no later than 2:30, and I finished in EXACTLY 2:30. Little disappointed even though that was the goal I set out with but at the same time I know that I can run it faster.

Sometimes though we cant be disspointed, we have to see how far that we have come. So tring to console myself I got out my running journal to see what I wrote the last 2 times I ran this training run Here is what it said :
* This was training for the Chicago 09 Marathon- ran in 1/2 mile clips until last 2 miles ran in 1/4 miles.   Overall happy with run finished in 2:45
* This was last year training for the Chicago 10 Marathon- Ran whole thing except for stopping at water stations (that we had stationed at 1.5, 4.25, 7.5, 9 and 11.5) Gave it everything I had and finished at 2:29

So looking at it now, this time around I should be ecstatic because I took a lot of walking breaks, wouldn't necessary say I gave it my all and finished in 2:30 . Plus hey, I ran 15 miles this morning !!!!! It was cold out- I never warmed up enough to even take my gloves off, but it was so nice to be outside.

29 miles in this week!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have a Super Sunday!!!!!!

Few things Friday

2011-03-11T12:29:00.001-05:00

Wow- its Friday already!!!!!!! Yippee. My 5 year old managed to pull a clean sweep this week and miss the whole week of school. Remember how I said he was taking a really long nap on Wednesday, well that would be an ear infection rearing its ugly head. No wonder the fever never went away. Today, finally he is showing signs of feeling better.

Despite have a sick child home all week I did manage to get in my mid week runs- 3,7,4. All on the treadmill but hey that is better than nothing. Looks like I might be able to head outdoors this weekend for the 15 miler- YIPPEE!!! (crossing my fingers the weather doesn't change.) The weather man just said- if all goes well we could see 60 by next weekend. Spring!!!!!

Weird thing happening this week. Each day that I ran, about an hour before I would be planning on running, by legs would get really antsy. It was like that knew I was going to run. I dont know it was just a strange feeling. Once I ran it went away.

Have a fabulous Friday!!

Run done

2011-03-09T17:59:00.000-05:00

I got in a 7 mile run today- me and the treadmill meet yet again. This is starting to get really old. The weather here is up and down- today it has rained all day long. Spring is right around the corner, right??? Just under 2 months until Marathon #3

So I ran on Monday, I was going to count that as an extra run but due to having sick children , I think I will just count that run. So 2 runs down for the week, 2 to go- 15 miler lined up for the weekend. Please please be nice, as 15 miles on the treadmill would be a long ways. Better prepare and look for a new movie to watch.

My 5 yr old is still sick. Poor little guy, he has had a fever for 4 days now. We just keep chasing it- a round of ibuprofen and then a round of Tylenol. He has been sleeping for a long time, taking a 3 hour nap. Is is this a good thing or a bad thing?? I will find out soon.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful Wednesday!!!!!

Motivation Monday part 2

2011-03-07T16:01:00.000-05:00

I did get a run in today- 1 child took a nap and the sick kiddo was vegging on the couch. Jumped on the treadmill for a 3 mile run. Not the fastest by any means, I figured since I was adding a run I better not go crazy. Slow and steady but I did notch the incline up a little more to 2 % and ran there. Overall very nice run 29:00

Motivation Monday

2011-03-07T13:40:00.000-05:00

Wow- I have motivation today but I feel as though I need more. Last week was not a good one for the runs. I had my oldest home from school for an extra 2 days due to sickness and then today I have my 5yr old home due to sickness. I pushed my runs back a day and then we ended up going out of town for the weekend; hence all runs were not completed. I am stressed but at the same time I am not- weird ?? I really want to get in an 'extra ' run today, but we will see if I can pull that off.

The weather is so nice outside today- I am really hoping that spring is around the corner. The weather has to stay nice or at least nice on the weekends so that I can get my long run outdoors. The treadmill is getting quite boring for long distance.

Even though the spring marathon season isnt even upon us yet, everyone is already signing up the Fall races- I have made a decision. No marathon for me in the fall!! Well that isnt exactly true, I am just not running it on my own. This fall I am going to participate in a Marathon relay, not sure which one yet- either Grand Rapids or Detroit. But I am so excited, I think this will be so much fun!!!!

Super Sunday

2011-02-27T20:02:00.000-05:00

First off, sorry I have not been blogging lately, continual craziness around here. It doesnt help when we had an ice storm ealier this week, which yielded to having the kids home for an extra 2 days and then mid winter break was Friday. Makes for a crazy week when the kids are only in school for 2 days!!!

Proud to report that I got all my runs in this week ( all on the treadmill due to the yucky weather) But 25.1 miles are in the books for the week.
3,6,3 and 13.1
Yes, I ran 13.1 miles on the treadmill this afternoon.   I stuck in "Titanic" and went running. It was a really awesome run. So much better than last week. This week and last weeks run took the same amount of time 2:05:01, but this week I ran 1.1 miles farther. YIPPEE.   To bad for me I didn't run a real half marathon today because that is a PR for that distance by 1 minute.

Sorry, so short but I still have a few things left to get organized before the night is over. Hope everyone's training is going well.

Spectacular Sloppy Saturday

2011-02-19T19:20:00.000-05:00

What a Spectacular day here in MI- it is so beautiful out for being the end of Feb. ; sunny, blue skies , high of about 45, low wind. PERFECT for today. My kids were out playing in the yard; wanting to pull out every toy they could find. Sadly though, we had to tuck them fast away as we are under a winter storm warning starting tomorrow for snow and ice. Oh well the few spring days were nice while they lasted.

What was sloppy- my run!!! I ran 12 miles- that is spectacular in itself. But it was really sloppy; it entailed some walking breaks. Here are my excuses for the sloppy- a) wasn't planning on running until tomorrow but then saw the forecast b) ran at 3pm ( after eating during the day) and c) my left hip and knee kept bothering me during the run. Not sure what is up with that , need to check the amount of miles on my shoes. Really though, I cant complain 12 miles in 2:05

Amy K. asked yesterday for the Green Lake Casserole recipe because she vacations in Green Lake, WI. . Well, not sure if it from that town or not but the recipe is my husband great grandmothers/ grandmothers and they live in WI (Green Lake is only about an hour from where they live, so this is very possible). We normally refer to this casserole as "Grandmas Casserole" but when I got the recipe that is what it was called "Green Lake Casserole"
So here we go
4 Cups of Diced chicken
2 cups of diced celery (saute)
1 Tpsn diced onion (saute)
1 can sliced water chestnuts
1 cup mayonnaise
2 cups cooked rice
1 Tpsn Lemon Juice
1 tsp salt
2 cans of Cream of Chicken soup

Mix all the ingredients together and place in a 9x13 pan. Melt 4 Tpsn butter and mix with 2 cups crushed corn flakes or Wheaties or almonds; toss over chicken mixture. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes

This is one of our family favorites. It also freezes very well.

Have a wonderful rest of the weekend; I will see if I can find web links for the rest of the recipes and put them on my blog.
Christa

Five things Friday

2011-02-18T19:00:00.001-05:00

1) First off, wow did I not follow through on my post that said I would be back posting. It has been almost five days.   Life this week was a crazy one. Monday (Valentines Day); this ment making 3 kids worth of Valentines cards; 2 Valentines Boxes; and Valentine Cookies for all 3 classes.   Tuesday ( My oldest 10th birthday)- wow, could that be. Where has the time gone??    Wednesday - relax and visit a friend Thursday and Friday - extra child home from school sick. BLAH BLAH BLAH. I think we all have crazy weeks like this.

2)    Today I got what I needed , A RUN OUTDOORS!!!!! I took full advantage of the warm weather that melted all of our snow and ran 6 miles out doors. I have no idea how fast I ran because my stopwatch died 3 miles in- but I do know that it was a wonderful run. Sadly, the cold snowy weather is in the forecast so I will be back on the treadmill. I hope that it holds out so that I can do 12 miles outside- because that would be pretty rough on the treadmill. BUT I will do what needs to be done. 2 runs down for the week 2 to go (running both Saturday and Sunday)

3) My marathon is only 11 weeks away. Wow, why does that sound so close!!! Why do I feel so under prepared; even though I am right where I should be at this time.

4) Through all of this we still have been eating healthy.   Dinners have been really good
* everything is from scratch nothing out of a box*
         Meatloaf ( with oatmeal and pureed zucchini)
         Homemade Macaroni and Cheese ( with pureed yellow squash)
         Beef and Barley soup
         Vegetable and beef Minestrone soup
         Lasagna
         Cheese stuffed pasta shell
         Chicken Nuggets and Homemade Fries (dinner tonight)
   Chicken Corn dun Bleu (I think that is how it is spelled)
         Chicken Chimiganas
         Green Lake Chicken Casserole
If you want the recipes I will post them

5) Looking forward to a nice relaxed weekend .    Nothing planned (well except for 2 runs) but nothing major, which is always nice . Between myself, my husband and our 4 kids we seem to always be doing something and this weekend there is NOTHING on the calendar.

Short and Sweet Sunday

2011-02-13T22:01:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to let you know, I am alive (and well, cross my fingers as hubby and children are fighting colds). Sorry that it has been almost 2 weeks since my last post, but we have just been crazy crazy busy. I will be back up posting soon- with how my running has been going ( haven't got all my runs in, but most of them are complete) and with a list of some great recipes.

Have a great rest of your Sunday- and Happy Early Valentines Day!!!!

Super Sunny Sunday

2011-01-30T16:26:00.001-05:00

It is sun-shining here- I know to some this may seem like no big deal, but here it is absolutely amazing because normally it is permanently gloomy from now until the end of March. That is what my husband and I have nick named this time of year "Permagloom". So, this is a totally unexpected thing. I don't know about you but the sunshine just gets me going.

Got my long run in- yippee 9 miles!! Wow, that felt nice!! I haven't ran that far in a long time. I was actually dreading it; until I got going. The first few miles were kind of rough- but once I got in the grove I felt GREAT. I finished and I still had energy left, that is always a nice feeling. I know that probably means that I need to run faster but I am training for a marathon, so trying to keep the pace at an even kilt. 9 miles in 85:42. This week complete- all 4 runs for a total of 19 miles.

This weekend I feel as though I have lived in the kitchen ( I do spend ALOT of time there).   I have just been baking / cooking away. Here is what we had

Friday: Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwiches on left over Quinoa Bread and a HUGE bowl of apples. I kid you not my kids ate all the apples before the sandwiches and asked for more. I said "Can you eat the sandwiches first?"    Keeping apples in this house is a major accomplishment- I buy at least 10lbs a week. CRAZY     I also made a double batch of homemade bagels. Still trying to perfect these, but I figure they have to be better than the store bought kind.   I did mix them half and half- whole wheat flour and all purpose flour.   I froze half the batch right off

Saturday - We made some Oatmeal Raisin cookies- oh my they were so good!! We just followed the recipe on the Oatmeal box with a few alterations. Did you know that you can substitution 3/4 of the shortening for applesauce? We did that, with some homemade applesauce. Also, you can substitute 1/4 of the sugar for dried milk, did that too. And of course I substitute half whole wheat flour and half all purpose flour.   For dinner we had Pizza ( our normal Saturday movie and pizza with kids)- we make homemade pizza. We make our own dough ; I do mix half whole wheat and half all purpose flour and the other thing I do is add in 3 Tablespoons of Flax-seed. We used our own homemade pizza sauce , some cheese and pepperoni. Normally I make a supreme pizza for my husband and I but didnt have all the ingredients for that. I also made ( which I haven't in a long time) made some Garlic Bread sticks ( of course I mixed flour and added flax seed)

Sunday- Today made a triple batch of waffles ( lots to be eaten throughout the week) . Tonight for dinner we are having sloppy joe / with some sort of veggie. But the best part of my sloppy joe is all it is this- 1.5 lbs of ground meat, tomato soup , pureed zucchini and spices.

Have a Super Sunday!!!

Three Things Thursday

2011-01-27T13:13:00.001-05:00

1) Cross training has been pretty nill- unless you count pulling my boys to the bus stop everyday. Does pulling and pushing them up and down small hills count? How about throwing ice balls at the trees? I really need to get back to my core workouts but so far I have been a no go in that area.

2) My training plan has me run 4 days a week. This week thus far I have gotten 2 runs in- so half way there. Thank goodness last year we took the plunge and purchased a treadmill, it has been such a time savior. Time savior?? Yes, as in it gives me the availability to run whenever I want, despite the cold or hot weather that we may be having. Last year I either had to wait to run outside or head off to the gym. Now whenever- so this week 3 miles on Tuesday 27:41 4 miles today 37:48
3 and a 9 miler left.
I have so been lacking motivation lately (to run) . But you know what is funny, as soon as I found the motivation to actually get my run in, it has boosted the rest of my day and I am just moving along.

3) If you followed my blog from the beginning you would remember that my family had a HUGE garden that we canned and or froze. Eating healthy is a big deal to us. Dont get me wrong we do indulge every now and then but we try not to do often. As I have been cruising around bloggy land I noticed that alot of people have been talking about food and what they eat . So I thought I would start a new section, recipes/ meals that we eat. One of my kids new years resolutions was to try new foods this year- so far we have tried Rutabaga, Dried Apricots, Prunes, Kiwi, Guacamole and Quinoa. We have had mixed reviews on the above mentioned. I made Honey Quinoa Bread the other day- WOW, was it amazing, everyone really likes it.
We do make alot of things from scratch and in bulk (so that we can freeze them to be used later). Right now I have a double batch of Cinnamon rolls going . This recipe I altered a little and mixed it half white flour and half wheat flour ( no one can tell the difference). I am making and freezing most them to be pulled out one at a time. But to make them a little more healthier I dont put on the icing ( I know that is the best part, but I think that they are sweet enough)

This is only half of what was made- the other half never even got cooked, they went directly in the freezer.

Tonight's dinner, is Stuffed Pasta shells (using leftover chicken , ricotta cheese , Parmesan cheese) topped with homemade spaghetti sauce.

If anyone has any healthy recipes, I would love to try them.

Have a Thankful Thursday.

Two things Tuesday

2011-01-25T11:27:00.000-05:00

1) First marathon training fail. I didnt get my "long run" (5 miles) in this weekend. I probably could have squeezed it in somewhere but I didnt. Instead I enjoyed a nice relaxing fun weekend with my family, watching movies, making homemade food, sewing up crafts, shopping etc... Why does missing a run mess with you so bad? I have missed runs before and I know it is ok. I first started stressing about it and then I said "Nope- Family, fun, flexible". Family comes first- and it did. I really enjoyed seeing the smiles on everyone's faces this weekend.

2) Got a 3 mile run this morning. (27:41) It felt nice. Nothing to fancy, just me and the treadmill. Is it spring yet, because I am getting tired of the treadmill? I know I could go outside but I just get cold thinking about it.

Have a teriffic Tuesday!!!

Five Things Friday

2011-01-21T16:04:00.000-05:00

Wow- is it really Friday !!!

1) Marathon training so far going good. I have gotten 3 runs in this week, 3,4,3 with a 5 mile run lined up for later this weekend. I am not braving the cold / icy weather so indoors on the treadmill it has been. But for me that is great- I can stare out the window at the subzero cold temperatures and enjoy the nice warmth of my house.

2) Today's run was supposed to be 3 miles, but I added a .1 to it so that I could participate in the SUCK IT UP, BUTTERCUP virtual 5K race. It was a perfect day for the race today, as I had no motivation going on. I just repeatedly had to tell myself - SUCK IT UP and run!!! 3.1 miles in 28:12, not my fastest but not my slowest by a long shot.

3) I am a music listener while I run and I swear that there are underlying song tracks underneath the actual music. There are few songs that I listen to and every time I hear them, I always think I can hear "Mom" , or the kids calling me. It is the craziest thing. Or maybe it is just because I have mom radar going on. I will figure out what songs they are and put them on here- to see if you can hear them or if I am just losing my mind.

4) So it was a year ago this week that I met with a personal trainer at the gym. After running solid for 2 years my body was getting used to running and I actually was starting to gain weight (did not want that). When I went to the gym last year my goal was to lose 20 lbs with cross training and proper diet, while still training for a marathon. Guess what , I DID IT!!! I reached my 20 lb goal in June and have held it off ever since then!!!! So very excited!!!!

5) I should post this next week but I am thinking about right now, Feb 1st of 2008 was the first time I laced up shoes and started running. At that time I couldn't even run 1/8 mile without dying. Crazy to see how far I have come. I just ran a virtual 5K in 28:12- long cry from my 1st 5K which took me almost 36 minutes. In 3 years, I have come from no running to now having run 4 half marathons and 2 full marathons- who would have thought. All I know is if I can do it, so can you !!!! Believe in yourself!!!!

Have a fantastic Friday!!!!!

Christa

7 mile Sunday

2011-01-16T15:28:00.000-05:00

Got her done- 7 miles!!! 66:22 Week 3 of Marathon Training finished- total of 16 miles!!

Now time to complete my dinner that is cooking, homemade bread and Elegant Pork Lion!!! My house smells so gooood.

Have a great rest of the weekend!!!

Few things Friday

2011-01-14T14:19:00.000-05:00

Wow- where did this week go. I feel like a slacker in the fact that I have not blogged all week long but that is because I am the farthest thing from being a slacker in the real world. What a crazy week it has been.

I have gotten 3 out of my 4 runs done for the week ( 3,3,3 ) with a 7 miler left for Sunday. I have been really thinking this week, wow marathon training is hard. I should know this, hello this is my 3rd one but man it is hard. Maybe this one just seems harder because it is in the spring, so most of my training is indoors ( because I am not an outdoor winter runner) or is it just the winter duldrums. Also, add to the marathon training that I am a mom to 4 wonderful kids- that is even harder. This is a great shout out to all the wonderful moms fitting in your training because I personally know how hard it is. Some times, you can try all you want but things don't go as smooth as you planned. Recently, a big ol bucket of playdoh has been my running savior. I get that out and it entertains my boys for the amount of time that is needed- but not this week. Every single time that I got the playdoh out the boys said, NO- so I would different toys out. I got out all the Rescue Heroes, their ships, airplanes, etc... and asked my boys are you all set ? ( I even put in the rescue hero movie so that they could play right with movie). They said "We are good". I got on the treadmill and I swear I wasnt more than .25 mile in, "Mom, the plane broke can you fix it?". Being the good mom that I am, I fixed it. Then another .25 mile in something else broke. When I was at about 1.5 miles they came in and asked if they could move everything upstairs- I said "Ok, but you will have to bring it back down later"- Up stairs everything went ( guess who brought it all back down later??? ME) But hey you have to do what you have to do in order to get your runs in. Right????

Shortly before Christmas, we had a speaker at the MOPS group that I attend . She had mentioned that the holidays (and life) should be about Family, Fun and Flexibility. That is my motto for the year- FAMILY, FUN and FLEXIBILITY. I just have to keep repeating that to myself when things don't quite go as we planned. I mention this because with the flexibility comes my running- I am just being really flexible with my schedule this marathon. I am doing the training but I am not letting it take over my life, just being flexible- fitting it in when I can.

With the New Year here, I thought I would give you a sneak peak on what reviews (possible giveaways) I will be working on this year ( ok I will give credit where it is due, this was my husbands idea, but I love it!!!) . So coming up in the near future there will be reviews on

Sports Detergent Comparison Review
Running Socks Comparison Review
Compression socks/ sleeves
Cherry Flex products
Reflect Sports products

I am still reviewing these products, if there is anything that you would specifically like to know about them while I am testing, let me know and I will make sure that I incorporate that into my testing/research.

Have a wonderful weekend- stay warm (as it is mighty cold here).

Christa

Splendid Saturday

2011-01-08T18:41:00.000-05:00

It was a very productive Saturday. Lots of household things done and then I figured my as well get my long run done. So I DID!!! 6 miles in, on the treadmill, not battling the snow nor the cold temperatures. 6 miles 56:57 Week 2 of Marathon training complete, total mileage for the week 15 miles.

What a splendid Saturday- with my run done I can sit back and enjoy the rest of my weekend.

Three Things Thrusday

2011-01-06T17:51:00.000-05:00

Here we go for the week- wow, is it already Thursday. I am such a slacker havent blogged since Sunday- sorry.

1) Marathon training so far on par. This week calls for a repeat of last week 3,3,3,6. On Tuesday I only had time for a 2 mile run ,18:20 ( I thought that was better than none). Today I made up for my lost mile on Tuesday with a 4 mile run (37:26). 2 more runs left for the week- I think that is doable.

2) I tallied up my miles for 2010- I ran 838.5 miles!!! Wow, that number sounds crazy but when you break it down it really isnt that many a month. My goal was a 1000; sadly did not achieve it. I was on par but then I got sick shortly after the Chicago Marathon, so that messed things up. Oh well, always a new goal for the New Year.

3) Speaking of 1000 miles- I joined in Tall Mom on the Run 1000 mile challenge for 2011. I figure the more people I tell the better chance I have of achieving it. Now I just have to figure out how to hyperlink the club logo to my page we will be all set. Maybe this year I can achieve 1000 miles, really that is only 83.3 miles a month ( I am 12 miles in).

Have a wonderful day- hopefully everyone is staying warm and dry. It is mighty cold here and just snowing away!!!!

Six Mile Sunday

2011-01-02T18:17:00.000-05:00

So excited that I got my long run done. Six miles in today, 56:29. I was too busy on the nice 50 degree days that we had here in MI, and of course waited until it started snowing again and the temperature dropped to 27. No venturing outside for me, 6 miles on the treadmill. Week one done of training- 4 runs in (15 miles) and one brief cross training day.

I had a very interesting observation today though. I do not normally watch football but that was what was on the TV when I turned on the treadmill (if I wanted to change the channel it I would have had to run through the house and adjusted our bedroom tv), so I opted to put my MP3 player on and watch the football game (at least it gave me somthing to look at.) I know that football takes a lot time to play; but this was ridiculous. When I started running the time clock said 11:30 left in the game. Do you know that it took them 55 minutes to play that 11:30. CRAZY. Well, it kept me entertained- but it was a very interesting observation.

I know I should have all my resoultions made by now but I am still not sure. There is one I know for sure and it is this:

Finish the Kalamazoo Marathon under 4:30. The Kalamazoo Marathon lands on Mothers Day so I figure that would be great gift to myself!!!!!

Have a wonderful Sunday and a Happy New Year.

Three Things Thursday

2010-12-30T21:22:00.000-05:00

Wow- is this week flying by. Here are my 3 things for this Thursday

1) Christmas decorations are all down and in their appropriate boxes. Now we just have to put all the boxes away. That is the project for tomorrow. But everything is down, tree and all. Wow, does the house look so spacious. I love the house all decorated but when everything comes down, I am always amazed at the amount of room that shows up. How about you??

2) 1st official week of Marathon training. The running so far, so good. I have gotten 3 runs in, following my schedule 3,3,3,6. So I have a long run of 6 miles to be completed sometime between tomorrow and Sunday. I think that is doable!!!

3) I did a little cross training. Nothing to major but I got a few things in. How do you in your cross training in? I have a hard enough time fitting in my running so my weight workouts are thrown in all over the day. Yesterday while I was cooking I did some squats, my as while do that while you meat is browning. Then during a basement clean up, I stopped for few minutes and did some Ab V rotations , hammer curls and arm raises. I know it isn't much but it is surely better than nothing.

Still pondering my New Years Resolutions- but I will let you know them soon.

Two Tuesday

2010-12-28T17:52:00.000-05:00

Yes- I am very excited to report that I have run 2 days in a row ; hence my Two Tuesday!!! I feel committed having the schedule, knowing that I "have to" get my runs in. This week, with it still being Christmas vacation the kids are home from school. All the kids being home make the running a little more difficult, but with the advent of new Christmas toys I have managed to sneak in some time. Today was a new box of Model Magic Presto Dots (a gift from my sister in law to my boys); this kept my boys and my girls entertained long enough for my run. I know I could get up early in the morning and run but since no one has to get up early I dont want to either.

3 miles 28:02 . Hope everyone is finding time to get there runs/ exercise in!!!

Have a Terrific Tuesday!!!

Marathon Monday

2010-12-27T18:57:00.000-05:00

As of today marathon training has offiicaly begun . I am so excited!! Excited but nervous. Excited to have a plan in place but nervous as I know what is ahead. This is Marathon number 3 for me- hoping for much better results this time around ( no injury's and no 85 degree heat) . Kalamazoo Marathon, May 8th!!!!! 3 quick miles in for today. 3 miles 28:22 It felt so nice to get on the treadmill - needed to run off some of the food that I have eaten in the last few days. Good thing Christmas is only one time a year, because all that great delicious holiday food is way to tempting.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!! We had lots of fun in our house. It has taken us almost 3 days to get every gift played with. Lots and lots of family fun time. Looking forward to Happy New Year

Run and CSN review

2010-12-22T09:45:00.000-05:00

Well so far this week, 1 run in. I know it is Wednesday and only one run. This week is crazy. 3 miles so far. I am hoping to get in a few more runs this week, so that I dont feel so guilty indulging in on the Christmas treats. Marathon training starts officially next week!!!!!!!

A few weeks ago I was given the great honor of a Promotional Gift Certificate to the CSN store for $40. How awesome is that?? Purchase what ever I want and then just write a review about it. This may sound like an easy feat but holy moly over at the CSN store there are so many things to chose from . This was a very very hard decision; buy something for myself, my kids, my husband, someone else?? Well I decided, the house and the family. I purchased 2 things:

InStyle Geo Shower Curtain in Brown - S-4009 BRWN

This is 100% cotton so it can be machines washed. I was so excited to pick this out. We have had the same decorative shower curtian in our bathroom for the last 10 years, so it was time for a change. I love it!!! Went from a blue bathroom to a brown acented bathroom. I changed everything while the kids were in school / husband was at work . When they all came home they were said "Wow, that looks great"

Milton Bradley Classic Scrabble Game - 4024S5

This I picked out because, ironically we own alot of games but not this one. This game is being given to all the kids for Christmas- what a great way for them to learn their letters and practice spelling words. I foresee lots and lots of family fun time.

The shipping was very timely. The items did arrive separately but that was no problem; very fast shipping. There is only a one negative issue-

Free Shipping

On Just About Everything!

I found this statement to very untrue. Unless I just was an exception to the rule. I must of looked at about 20 or more different items before I made my decision on what to purchase. Every single item that I looked at did not offer free shipping. With being given a gift certificate I wanted to get the most bang for my buck, After a while I just gave up the search of trying to find something with free shipping and picked out the 2 items that I did. I had to pay shipping on both of those items.

Overall though, I am very happy with my purchase and would consider shopping at the CSN store again in the future. Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity.

Few things Friday

2010-12-17T15:37:00.000-05:00

First off - I ran 4 four miles today. Nothing super fancy, not super long but I ran 4 miles. With that run it gave me a total of 9 miles this week ( 2, 3, 4). Also, I have ran 9 miles that last 2 weeks in a row , with each week getting 3 runs. So I am sloooowly getting back on track. Official training starts back up in just 2 weeks!!!!

Do you think it is easier to run outside in the winter or the summer? There is this man that I have seen out running off and on since the very beginning of the shcool year. I asked him if he is training for a race and he said "No, I am just running". Yesterday while at the bus stop he came walking by ( not running I assume since the road was a slick ice rink) I told him " I give you kuddos for being out here running!!" He said "I think this is alot harder than running in the summer heat." I would agree- that is why we bought a treadmill. So what do you think, winter or summer ???

Today of my kids start their Christmas vacation- they are off for a while!!! Oh man, I don't have nearly everything done that I wanted to have done. I am doing one more last trip out sometime this weekend- last minutes gifts and food for all next week including Christmas. I do not want to step foot in a store at all next week!!!

Have a Fabulous Friday!!!!!

Wonderful Wednesday part 2

2010-12-15T10:45:00.000-05:00

Yippee- got the 3 mile run in. Love looking at the snowy cold weather yet being nice and warm running on the treadmill. 3 miles of rolling hills.

New Winner Wednesday and more

2010-12-15T08:21:00.000-05:00

One of the winners never contacted me so the new winner of Chocolate #9 is
                                            Amber
                                    please send me your address

Crazy weather going on here in MI. It is mighty cold out. The crazy part is that it isn't even officially winter yet- I have a feeling this is going to be a long season.     High in the 20's today, that is a heat wave compared to this past weekend.    The wind chills pushed us below 0. We were visiting my parents this weekend, which on a normal day is about a 3 hour drive. Well, Sunday it took us almost 6 hours to make that drive. Talk about being crazy. We got veered off the freeway due to an accidnet , went to get on the freeway and a local policman said I wouldnt get back on because you will be veered off again due to a fatal accident 3 miles down. So we drove the back roads to get around all that. We made our way back on the freeway to only be stopped by another accident. This one, we should have been veered off the freeway for- a semi truck was split into 3 pieces- with the cab of the truck in oncoming traffic.    After that crazy drive I was so happy that school was cancelled on Monday due to inclement weather.

As for the running- last week I got 9 miles in. That isnt super great but better than nothing. Due to the sub zero weather here I am staying indoors. Yesterday I ran 2 miles. Since I was only planning on running 2 miles, I put the treadmill into rolling hill mode, which gave me a nice workout. Hopeing to get 3 miles in today- we will have to see .

Trying to finish up all Christmas gifts, food purchases, wrapping, etc... so that I can enjoy my kids Christmas vacation with them and not be stressed out. I do not want to step foot into any store at all next week, as I know that they will be slammed packed.    Do you think I can do that?

Hope everyone has a Wonderful Wednesday!!!

Supplement Giveaway Winners

2010-12-13T07:56:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much for entereing my giveaway!!
The 3 winners are as follows ( drum roll please):

1) Peter Rabbit Organic Fruit Pouches - Bobbi

2) Chocolate #9 - Jenna Z

3) GU Products - E. Rostron

Please send me your addresses so that you can receive your products.

Thank you -
Christa

3 things Thursday

2010-12-09T10:43:00.000-05:00

Enter my supplement giveaway

So here is my really exciting 3 things Thursday- but for this time of year and for the motivation that I have been lacking lately here you go.

1) Monday ran 3 miles
2) Wednesday ran 3 miles
3) Thursday ran 3 miles

There is my 3 things- I know that is pretty lame, but that is all I have . 3 runs in one week is huge right now ( how sad is that) Can I tell you how good I feel this week with having got the exercise back in- AWESOME!!

Wonderful Wednesday

2010-12-08T15:59:00.000-05:00

                                                      Enter my supplement giveaway

Wow!! What a wonderful week, and a wonderful Wednesday!!! I have so much to say, sorry I may be rambling on.

1) First I want to give a great CONGRATULATIONS to my husbands Uncle John who just ran the Cal International Marathon in CA- he PR'd beating lasts year time by 11 min. Who Hooooo way to go Uncle John!!!!

2) I ran, I ran- yes so far I have run twice this week!! I know that isn't that exciting, but since I haven't ran that much the last month, I am so excited that I have fit in 2 runs this week. Two 3 mile runs- nothing to crazy. I was going to run farther today but then I decided , nope I want to stay injury free for this marathon ( that is only a mere 21 weeks away). Hope to get in at least 2 more runs before the week is over. Do clothes make you feel motivated to run? I put on my Chicago Marathon shirt from 10/10/10 and I instantly got a jolt of energy to run.    I want to thank my great friend B, who spoke great words of motivation to me yesterday. Funny she called me to get motivation to get running again and she motivated me to go running.   Despite over a 1000 mile distance we are still motivating each other!!

3) I think ( can I hope) that I have all my Christmas shopping done. Man, I hope so. Now it is just time to wrap wrap wrap.

4) Snow, snow, snow. It is just snowing away here. Now comes lots of bonding time with me and the treadmill. I know, I can go outside. But I always have this crazy fear of falling on ice - really dont need a broken bone. Plus with it getting light so late in the morning and dark so early in the evenings, I would just rather run indoors whenever I have the chance. Don't get me wrong though, if we were to have an Indian Summer day ( which I doubt will happen) then I will head out doors.

5) Do you notice that when you eat healthy your body craves healthy food? Ever since the marathon I havent' been eating super great. I haven't been eating bad but just not super great ; with traveling and resting. But this last week I have gotten everything back on track. Weird, I can walk past the cookies and go straight for the salad. Strange . Every time I have a salad, I comment how much I love them ( which I would have never said in the past) . Just had post run snack of a banana with almond butter.

6) Speaking of cookies- oh my word. We had a cookies swap at the MOPS meeting that I attend. We each made 20 bags of 3 cookies each and then brought them in to swap out. So when all was said and done you would end up with about 5 dozen assorted cookies. I did splurge and have a couple, they were to die for. So, instead of continuing the indulgence I packed the rest of them into the freezer to be taken out on Christmas weekend.    What a fun idea!! Yummy!!!

7) Don't forget to enter my Supplement giveaway!!!! Also, if anyone has any healthy natural supplements that they use, I would love to hear about / try them.     My family trys to get as "natural" as possible, so I have a hard time taking running supplements that have an ingredient list that is super long.

Ok- I think that is enough wonderment for this Wednesday!!!

Supplement Review and Triple Giveaway

2010-12-07T19:25:00.001-05:00

Supplement Review-

As you add high mileage runs to your training schedule you need to learn how to fuel yourself. While training for the Chicago Marathon I experimented with this. Most of the experimentation was due to the fact that some of the fueling supplements made my sick, caused headaches or just did not seem to work. Some I bought for myself, and some were samples sent to me to try out. Instead of having 5 different reviews I thought I would compare them side-by-side.

Gu Energy Gel/ Chomps
Sport Beans
Clif Bloks
Chocolate #9
Peter Rabbits Organic Fruit Pouches

GU ENERGY GEL / CHOMPS

Gu energy gels come in about 10 flavors. They are very convenient to carry, usually can fit in the pockets that are on all the running gear. I have tried a few of the different flavors but unfortunately I just cannot stomach the gels. I personally like the convenience of the chomps better. Gu Chomps come in 5 different flavors; I can put one in my mouth and just continue running, unlike the gels where I have to stop. I am not sure what it is in the product but every time I have tried the chomps, I get really bad headaches. With that being said the only chomps that I have tried are ones that have caffeine in them. Could that be the culprit for the headaches, I don’t know or is it something in the chomps themselves. Chomps $2.20/ package Gel $1.35/ gel pack

SPORTS BEANS

I love the convenience of this product. You can grab one, you can grab a handful and just go. I used sports beans a lot on many of my long runs. Sports Beans come in 6 different flavors and a mixed bag. The main issue I have with this supplement is it really wrecks me after I am done running. It is crazy, during the run it supplements me awesome and then as soon as I stop running my body starts revolting, resulting in bathroom issues later. $1.00/ package

CLIF SHOT BLOKS

These are very similar to the Gu Chomps but just made by a different company. Not exactly sure what is different between the 2 companies but this one settles a lot better with me, no issues at all. Cliff Shots are available in 9 different flavors. $1.98/ package

CHOCOLATE #9

This company was so nice to send me an entire box to try out. Per a recommendation of a fellow blogger , I was turned to Chocolate #9. I was (and still am) on the hunt for natural supplements for endurance running. Chocolate #9 only has 2 ingredients. Yes, only 2 ingredients- organic agaves and cocoa. Chocolate #9 comes in a gel format very similar to that of GU. This product is great, if and only if you are a chocolate lover. Personally, for myself I was so excited that this product had natural ingredients but since the chocolate flavor is so strong I could only stomach it on indoor runs or those that were cooler outside. If I ran outdoors on a very warm day, when it came time to fuel up I felt like I was sucking down brownie batter. Which some of you many thoroughly enjoy ( as I do when I am baking) but not so much when I am in the middle of a long distance run. Gel pack $1.34 / piece

PETER RABBIT ORGANIC FRUIT POUCHES

This company was so nice to send my 3 different pouches (one of each flavor) to try out. Wow, these are amazing. There come in 3 flavors. Straight up 100% fruit, the consistently reminds me a lot of really pureed up baby food (applesauce consistency) . I really really liked this product. I used it on a lot of my tread mill runs. Unfortunately due to the size of the product I didn’t take it on any long runs. Really that would be my only problem with this product, size. I believe to become very marketable in the running (endurance sports) the size of the product would have to get smaller. Pouches $1.99/ piece.

Overall, I think fuel supplements are a personal preference. As for myself, I am on the hunt for “natural fuel supplements” to help during my long runs. All these products are fairly similar in price comparison. If I only had these supplement to choose from this is how I would rank them

1) Cliff Bloks

2) Sports Beans

3) Peter Rabbit Organic Fruit Pouches ( only due to the size)

4) Chocolate #9

5) Gu gel / chomps

As always, my reviews are based on my own observations. My objective is value. I may not always choose the best product due to price, but I am not looking for the cheapest product either. I am not being compensated for my reviews and my allegiance is to you the reader not suppliers or manufactures. If you have questions and/or comments I am always happy to hear from you.

GIVEAWAY

Here is the fun part, a TRIPLE Giveaway!!! Yes, there will be 3 winners

1) Peter Rabbit Organics has so graciously offered to giveaway an assorted 10 pack of their fruit pouches. (Open to U.S. Residents only)

2) Chocolate #9, I was given such a large supply that I am graciously giving away 7 pouches

3)GU products. I have a supply that I would like to share. A Tri Berry Gel, A Strawberry Banana Gel and a Orange Gu Chomp

In order to enter the contest you must, in separate entries, do one or more of the following. Each entry will equal one chance of winning. Up to 8 chances per person. This giveaway will end on Sunday Dec 12th at 8pm Eastern Time

1) Become a follower of my page

2) Join Christas Fitness Challenge on Facebook

3) Like Peter Rabbit Organics on Facebook

4) Like Chocolate #9 on facebook

5) Like Gu on Facebook

6) Like Clif Bar on facebook

7) Announce my give a away on your page /facebook/ twitter

8) Add me to your blogroll

MIA

2010-12-03T12:48:00.000-05:00

Where have I been????? I was gone over the Thanksgiving Holiday; took an extended vacation and went up to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

No running to be heard of !!! BLAH I say I have been on a running sabbatical since the marathon. But starting next week I am back at her- printed the training schedule I am sooo ready to return. Trying to take the rest of this week and get as many holiday things done so that I can enjoy the holiday and not feel guilty squeezing in my runs.

I had a request from some of the Fitness Challengers in the MOPS (mothers of Preschoolers) group that I am in, for my running play list. So I thought I would share it with you. What music do you listen to?

It may not be the best music to listen to on a daily basis but the songs do have good "running beats" Most top 40 stuff.

Here was my last marathon play list:
Bad Romance - Lady Gaga
One Time- Justin Bieber
So What - Pink
Teenage Dream - Katy perry
Whatca Say - Jason DeRulo
Your love is my Drug- Keisha
Baby- Justin Bieber
Boom Boom Pow - Black Eyed Peas
Single Ladies - Beyonce
When I grow up- Pussy cat dolls
Party in the USA -Hannah Montana
Ridin Solo- Jason DeRulo
Tik Tok - Kesha
Carry out - Timbaland
LoveGame - Lady Gaga
Rock that Body - Black eyed peas
Sexyback - Justin Timberlake
California Girls- Katy Perry
Cant be tamed - Miley Cyrus
Down - Jay Sean
I know you want me - Pitbull
In my head - Jason DeRulo
Sexy Chick- David Guetta
Whatya want from me- Adam Lambert
Paparazzi- Lady Gaga
Cooler than me - Micheal Posner
Do you remember - Jay Sean
Give you hell - American Rejects
Meet in the middle- Timbaland
Poker Face - Lady Gaga
U smile - Justin Bieber
I like it - Enrique
Bust your windows -Glee
I gotta feeling - Black eyed peas
Lovestoned - Justin Timberlake
OMG - Usher
Telephone - Beyonce / Lady Gaga
We belong to to music - Timbaland
Hotel Room Service - Pitbull
If I had you - Adam Lambert
Rude boy - Rihanna
Eenie Meenie - Justin Bieber
Fireflies - Owl City
If we ever meet again- Timbaland
DINOSAUR - Kesha
Boots and Boys -Keha
Sweet Caroline (Glee)
Nothin on you - BoB
Just the way you are -Bruno Mars
Love the way you lie - Eminem

Sorry, dropped the ball on my giveaway before the holiday- BUT I do have one coming up early next week (PROMISE!)

Running Skirts Review

2010-11-15T09:12:00.000-05:00

Running Skirts.com Review

The wonderful people at Running Skirt let me try out some of their gear. I originally thought that I was just trying out a skirt, but was pleasantly surprised when an entire outfit arrived: skirt, shirt and bra. Wow!!

I had the great opportunity to try out an Ultra Swift Skirt (hot pink), Strappy Sports Bra (Polka Dot) and a Performance Mesh Tank (Black).

1) Fit According to Size- The skirt I was on the fence on what size to order, so I left it up to Running Skirts.com- in pants/shorts/etc.. I wear a 6 but was very hesitant to order the skirt because it was a 4-6 (size 2 according to there sizes) and I was afraid it would be to small. They sent me a size 3. Since this is my first skirt I am not exactly sure how it is supposed to feel. But it fits perfect around the hips but is a little loose in the waist. In both the Strappy Sports Bra and Performance Mesh Tank I received a Medium and they fit accordingly.

2) Material - All 3 of these items are made of 90% Polyester and 10% Spandex. They all need to be washed in cold water and line dried. The bra has extra inserts inside the cup area, not sure of the material of those.

3 )Chafing- The shirt and the bras have no issues in this department. The skirt, I have noticed in fairly low mileage runs (anything less than 5) I am fine, but as soon as I cross over the 5 mile mark I start to get rubbing /chaffing in the insides of my thighs. Now, with that being said I don’t know if it is the skirt or just skirts in general as this is the first skirt that I have ever tried.

4) Clothing Riding up or falling down - Again, the shirt and bra I have no issue . The skirt I kept thinking was falling down (even though it really wasn’t it). Since it is tighter around the hips and looser around the waist as I would run it would give me the sensation that it was falling down. But after I got used to that, it felt fine.

5) Ability to get off after strenuous workout - Absolutely no problems in this area

6) Price Comparability- The Strappy Sports Bra retails for $29; compared to other competitive running stores Running Skirts.com seems to be on the cheaper end. That is incredible as it is such a cute sports bra. The Performance Mesh Tank retails for $34, which is very comparable to other stores that sell the same type of product. The Running skirts retails for $48; I had to look around at other stores for running skirts as this is my first running skirt. By looking around I can tell the price is very comparable to other brands with similar products.

7) Accessory Capable- The bra nor the shirt have any accessory capabilities. The skirt, ahh had 3 gear pockets, one on each side of your hips and one in the back of the skirt. Since I didn’t wear the skirt much over 5 miles I didn’t have to test out much of the pockets but LOVE idea of gear pockets. The skirt does not have any key pockets.

8) Compared to favorite item of mine- Well for the skirt, I have nothing to compare to. But I will say it fits nice and is comfortable, just not for anything over 5 miles (at least on me). The shirt I would rank up near the top, it too is my only true tank shirt (I have razor back shirts but this is the only tank shirt). The bra is really nice, another one that could probably be worn itself (still not that kind of girl). I would bump the bra up to the number 2^nd spot out of the six that I have.

Overall very satisfied with all these products. The only downfall is in the fact that I have to line dry all the items. Also, as I mentioned the bra has extra inserts, every time I wash the bra the inserts flip in half, so I have to reach in between the seams and flip them back over. But that is minor issue.

Just wanted to thank Running Skirts.com, for giving me this fantastic opportunity.

Disclaimer : I was not paid to review these items, this is just my opinion.

Fun Friday

2010-11-12T22:14:00.000-05:00

Well, no more running this week. What a crazy busy week. But I did run 8 miles this week, so I guess that is better than nothing.   If I can count "running " at the bus stop with my boys, then I have ran alot. While waiting for the bus, we have been running from the bus stop to the next drive way and back, . My boys LOVE it!! Today they said   "Mom, can we do that running thing again?" Of course, you dont have to twist my arm.

I received my Allied Steel Medal Hanger from Chasing Atlanta today!! Now the big decision, where do I put it?? As soon as it is up and all my medals are hanging I will take a picture and post it.

Keep an eye out this upcoming week for some great reviews along with a giveaway!!

I found out today that I get to review a product from the CSN store.   How fun!!! The tough part is going to be, what do I review? They have so many choices- Kids Backpacks, household products, toys, exercise equipment, etc... Do I review a product for myself or with Christmas coming be nice and review a product for my husband or kids. Stay tuned and in the near future you will find out my choice and see a review.

Have a fantastic Friday!!!   Best of luck to all those racing this weekend!!!

Christa

Wonder Wednesday

2010-11-10T16:07:00.000-05:00

So one month ago today I was blazing the streets of Chicago. Blazing, as in running in 85 degrees for 26.2 miles. What have I done since then...............ran a big whopping 20 miles in 30 days. How sad is that?

The wonderful part about today though is , my 3 year old took a nap and I got on the treadmill. 5 miles 47:21.
I needed that so much. I have realized that I need a schedule- can't wait until the end of December for the "true" marathon training to start. I need it to start NOW. 5 miles has never felt so good.

Short and sweet for today, have a wonderful Wednesday!!!!!

Marvelous Monday part 2

2010-11-08T18:19:00.000-05:00

So I did- I got my run in!!!!!!!!!!!! Why I thought it would be easier to do with all 4 kids home vs just 1 kid home, I do not know; but I got it done 3 miles in 28:40.    Not the fastest- but I ran!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Also, who would of have known that running would help pop my ear. It isn't all the way popped but almost... it was popping while I ran, craziness!!! .    Man, how I missed running, even if it was on the treadmill. I got on the treadmill, got it up to speed and let loose. Wow, it was like I was sinking into a nice hot bath, it felt so good.

Until tomorrow.

Marvelous Mileage Monday

2010-11-08T15:19:00.000-05:00

Well no run thus far today ( hoping my son will take a nap so that I get on the treadmill, but that is not looking so good). May just have to wait until later this evening, but I ssoooooooooo need to run.

As I mentioned in a previous post- Mileage Mondays are the time to let me know what miles that your children have completed for the past week. My kids have been so excited to see other kids interested in the mileage club- there still is time ( actually no cut off), the more the merrier!! Join in the fun and sign your kids up for the Virtual Mileage Club.

Have a Marvelous Monday!!!

Several Things Sunday

2010-11-07T17:39:00.000-05:00

So I thought since I have been MIA for the last few days I would start the week off with a bit of catch up.

1) Well, the cold seems to be going away- YIPPEE. My ear is still plugged but not as bad as it was before, so I am thinking that some day soon ( I can cross my fingers) that it will be totally unplugged and I will finally be able to hear and smell correctly

2) No running at all this week. Holy Moly cant really remember the last time that I could say that. I did do a little cross training this week, started back up with a small ab routine. Also, hopefully it counts but I have been raking and raking our yard. I love having trees but this time of the year really sucks. I have been taking advantage of the nice weather we are having and raked the leaves out to the street ( we have leaf pickup every few weeks). So I raked for 2 hours today and then mowed the lawn for the last time- does that count as a fitness workout? I am going back to the running tomorrow- so excited!!!!!

3) I can not believe but I actually won a give away this week. How much fun!!! Not only did I win one, I won a Allied Steel Medal Hangar, SWEET from Chasing Atlanta. The one that I won says "Believe"- that is so appropriate. I tell so many people "You can run a 5K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon ( of whatever they have in mind), all you have to do is Believe." Cant wait to get it and hang my medals up!!!

4) Well, Courtneys 100 day Challenge is slowly coming to an end (at the beginning of December), wow cant believe that is so close already. I had 4 goals

Complete the Chicago Marathon in a time of 4:48 (or less) - FAILED ( well I finished, but not in my goal time, so I guess I will give my self a pass but need to run another one to redeem myself)
Run 1000 miles this year. I don't know; this one is going to be hard as I have been sick for the last few weeks . I will try my hardest to see how close I can get
Get as many people interested in fitness/running as possible. This one I think I am succeeding in and LOVE it.
PR at the Park 2 Park Half Marathon- PASSED way above my goal time

But now with this fun event coming to an end (soon) I have joined and new challenge, the 2 will overlap for a week or so. This one is called the Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge - over at Run To the Finish    The goal of this one is to keep us motivated over the holidays- oh man this should be interesting. I do not need the holiday food yielding me a weight gain, I have worked way to hard .    Go on over and join in the fun!!!!

5)   Weird thing going on- Halloween was a week ago and there is TONS ( 4 kids worth) of candy in my house. Normally, oh I would be stealing my kids candy. But I have absolutely no craving for any of it. I have had 1 piece of candy and that is it. Not sure why- but I guess that is good thing.

6) Last but definitely not least. This was a sad week for me, as my great friend B (whom I did all my Chicago Training with) moved away.    Her husband got a job in his dream state, Colorado.    So many tears were shed this week as she moved 1130 miles away ( but no one is counting). I will surely miss her. I have to say, she was one loved lady in this town; she had a Goodbye dinner where over 30 women showed up. How awesome is that!!!!!    I am very happy for her family as they begin a new chapter in their journey of life.    Some day though, I hope we meet on the road, lace up our shoes and go for a run together again.

Have a wonderful weekend and I will catch up with you tomorrow.

Christa

Wonder Wednesday??

2010-11-03T15:45:00.000-04:00

The wonder is- Where have I been?? It is Wednesday, last post Friday.   Well, I have been no where, except still not feeling well. BLAH BLAH BLAH.   No running- this is driving me nuts.

The doctor said the infection is all gone but now my Eustachian tubes are plugged. Basically, it feels like I am either stuck up in an airplane or under water and cant get my ears to pop. The plugged ears are making my head congested still, which is causing me to not be to smell. So very frustrating.

I am not asking very much, I just want to be able to hear properly, smell properly and RUN!! Now no one is telling me I cant run. But my head hurts and I am just so dang tired ( the medicine that they have me on makes me tired, well any medicine makes me tired).     I feel like a slob. Maybe I should just push through the pain and run, will it make me feel better????   At least the blessing is that I am in between training schedules.

I promise I will be posting more soon- hopefully about all the fantastic miles that I will be clearing!!

Nuun Giveaway Winners

2010-10-29T19:31:00.000-04:00

Still no running due to ear ache. But I thought before the Halloween festivites this weekend take over I would announce the winners of Nuun!!!!

2 Winners are.........................................................

BOBBI

and

BABYWIEGHTMYFATASS

Please email me your addresses so that I can send you are great Nuun!!!

Have a Wonderful Halloween Weekend!!! Try not to eat to much candy, or at least the amount that you can run off ( I must remember my own advice)

Christa

Thoughtless Thursday

2010-10-28T13:04:00.000-04:00

So, I did get my "run on yesterday", a quick 3 mile run. It felt ssooooo nice!!!
BUT
Today no running going on, nor any thoughts, as my head cold/sinus infection went into my ear. My ear drum popped last night, so today I am in quite a bit of pain. ARG!!!!!!!

I want to get better, I want to run (but not with ear pain)!!!!

Hope you can have a Thankful Thursday. One more day to enter my Nuun giveaway.

Wonder Wednesday

2010-10-27T08:49:00.000-04:00

Enter my Nuun Giveaway
Enter your kids the Mileage Club

In honor of Halloween this week, I was Wondering what everyone is wearing for costumes. We told our kids that we were not buying any costumes this year (only because we have a HUGE bin full of dress up clothes). We told them that they needed to either, Reuse, Re purpose or make there costume.

So this is what they came up with

Thomas the train (3 year old)- I think, he may still change his mind
Buzz Lightyear (4 year old)
Queen of Hearts ( 7 year old)
Marathon Runner ( 9 year old)- This one, brought me to tears. She sat in her room and made a huge list of different options of what she could be. Then she came to me and said "I want to be a marathon runner like you". Wow!!

Per everyone's great advice yesterday on my sickness, I tried the allergy and Netti pot option. My head is not nearly as congested as yesterday. Not sure which one is taking away the pressure, but I think I will use both options again today. Plus, my husband said "You haven't been running, your body doesn't know what to do". So I guess, I should listen to my body and get my Run On!!!!

Have a wonderful Wednesday!!!

Two Things Tuesday

2010-10-26T16:16:00.000-04:00

                                        Enter my Nuun Giveaway until 10/29
                                     Join in the Virtual Mileage Club from now until June 3rd

Two Things Tuesday
1) RUNNING: So I have been running. Not very much, but I did manage to get 3 runs in last week. My first week after the Chicago Marathon was REST. Then last week I couldnt take it anymore, so I laced the shoes back up. Three 3 miles runs- for a big whopping total of 9 miles.   Wow, I cant even remember the last time that I ran only 9 miles in one week.

Thursday 3 miles on the Treadmill. 1st run after the marathon. It felt so nice, like I had met a long lost friend. I started off at a nice 6.0mph and by the end I cranked it all the way up to 8.0mph ( I have never ran that fast before) 3 miles 29:02
Friday 3 miles on the Treadmill. Took the plunge this day and signed up for the Kalamazoo Marathon.Very uneventful run, but it felt so nice. Started off at 6.0mph again but bumped my speed up at faster increments all the way up to 8.0mph. 3 miles 28:32

Sunday 3 more miles, but this was oustside. It was BEAUTIFUL here in Michigan, a crazy 70 degree day for October. It was a nice run!! I was wondering while running, how did I run in the summer heat, becasue for some reason 70 seemed so warm. I managed to pick up my pace 3 miles 27: 23

So I progressively got faster throughout the week. I still feel kind of blah though. I am inbetween training programs. Trying to get motivated to run without a "written schedule". Need to have something concrete between now and then. How do you stay motivated in between schedules? I am signed up for my next Marathon but the "True Training" doesn't start until the week of New Years.

2) SICKNESS: I am soooo tired of having a cold. All of my kids have had runny noses and coughs for what seems like forever (probably over a month now). I fought most of the cold off before the marathon, got an ear infection and a cough the week of the marathon. That was fun running 26.2 miles with that ( but I managed). But now, my head is so stuffy. I can breath out of my nose , it isnt running, but I can not smell anything. Not sure if it a sinus infection or what. They say many marathon runners get sick shortly after running a marathon because there wear their immune systems down. Well, I guess I did that.!!!! What do you do in your house to ward off sickness? With 6 people in the house (3 that are school) it seems like there is always something in the air at house.

Have a Terrific Tuesday!!!!

Mileage Monday

2010-10-25T08:35:00.001-04:00

                                              Enter my Nuun Giveaway

On Friday, I talked about my kids Mileage Club that we are doing. This weekend we had a big family discussion about it. Myself, my husband and all the kids decided that we want to have a Virtual Mileage Club.
We want all the kids up and moving!!! This is for my kids, your kids, all of our kids.

We will have Mileage Mondays- on Mondays send me the total miles that your children accumulated (walking and/or running) during the past week.   I will keep an "running tab" on all of our kids miles. This Club will run from now until June 3rd ( my kids last day of school). After that, I will total the miles and send your child their "Shoe Award".   To make it a little more exciting, we thought we would put a little competition into it. We will have a WINNER in each age bracket , for the child who completed the most miles during the 2010-2011 school year.   The winner will be sent a prize ( still yet to be determined)

Age Brackets 1-2 , 3-5, 6-8, 9-11, 12-14 ,15-18   (age at the end of the school year)

Send me your kids name (or at least what you want me to refer to them as) and their age.

I know that the weather is going to start turning for most of us, but hopefully this will keeps us all motivated to get ourselves and our kids moving.

Tell you friends and join in the fun and become a member of our Virtual Mileage Club

Any questions or comments please feel free to contact me.

2010-10-24T16:35:00.002-04:00

Hydration Review and Give a Way

While training for the Chicago Marathon I was experimenting with different hydration options; trying to find the best one. Some I bought for myself, and some were samples sent to me to try out. Instead of having 3 different reviews I thought I would compare them side-by-side.

Gatorade G2 (purchased myself) $.19 per serving

Nathan Catalyst Effervescent Tablets (sent to me) $.17 per serving

Nuun Effervescent Tablets (sent to me) $.19 per serving

Gatorade:

Up until the training of this marathon I always used Gatorade. Matter of fact, we use Gatorade all the time in our house. A 51 oz powder container is a staple item in our pantry. Gatorade comes in a multitude of flavors. Some I like, and some I don’t (that is a personal preference). They do sell the individual packets that can be dropped into your sports bottles. These are in powdered form (shake for maximum results). Each packet makes two 8oz servings, perfect for a standard 16oz bottle. In every 16oz bottle (two servings) there is 10g carbs /10 g sugar and 40 calories. This is great for a day at the beach, or any other active event where you would want supplemented hydration. This is why Gatorade is a staple in our house. Our family’s summer of fun, generally revolve around outdoor physical activity. There are a couple disadvantages to using Gatorade during long running/training events. The individual serving powder packet is kind of complicated to use while racing. I have to be very accurate (while all sweaty) to get all the powder into the water bottle without it dumping all over the ground or myself). The carbs and sugar make supplementing your run with other products tricky. It couples your fuel and hydration in one product. If you need more or less hydration you have to adjust your solid supplements on the fly. Not an ideal situation.

Nathan Catalyst Effervescent Tablets:

I originally contacted Nathan Sports to try out there sport laundry detergent. Watch for my laundry detergent showdown, in the future. This company also sent me a bunch of hydration mix samples, with water bottle. Nathan’s hydration tabs come in 3 different flavors; Orange, pomegranate-blueberry and Lemon Lime. To my knowledge these are the only flavors available. In reality, flavor doesn’t matter, but I will always take more options if I can get them. The drink mix is in tablet form. It is packaged in a plastic tube with 16 tabs per tube. This is the best way to package drink mix. Each tablet makes three 8oz servings. For maximum results they are to be mixed with 24 oz of water. For me, this was an issue. I have no water bottles that are 24 oz, only 16oz (and I have a lot of water bottles). All you have to do is drop the product into water and it dissolves on its own. No shaking, no mixing, no mess. All 3 flavors had a very fizzy taste to them. This was something that I was not used to, nor did I really enjoy. This is a personal preference. If you like fizzy, flavored water this is your drink. The lemon lime and orange reminded me a lot of the Gatorade flavors, beside the fizzy part. I really liked the taste of the Pomegranate- Blueberry but it made me thirsty after I drank it. In my book this is not a good thing when I am trying to hydrate. I was kind of bummed because the taste was that good. Nathan tablets have less than 1 gram of carbs and sugar per serving and 0 calories. The water bottle Nathan sent me was a Quick draw hand held cultch water bottle (22oz). When this product arrived I was to far into my training to experiment with carrying a water bottle. When I do a water bottle review in the future I will defiantly include it. I’m looking forward to trying it out. I have one question? Why have a 22oz water bottle for a tablet that mixes with 24oz? I know it is only 2oz, but why would you make them different? Their web site said to mix with 22oz. On the package it said 24oz. Interesting. It can’t image it makes a difference, just an observation. This is a good electrolyte hydration mix. It can be used with your solid supplements with no effect. Flavor is good. I don’t like the fizz, but it may be what you have been looking for. I would like to see the tablet size reduced to 1 or 2 servings. Three servings is hassle for me.

Nuun Effervescent Tablets:

This company sent me 6 different flavors. This drink mix is in tablet form, and is packaged in a plastic tube with 12 tablets per tube. They also included three 16oz water bottles. I will include them in my future water bottle review. I will say the quality is above average. The 7 flavors include: Kona Cola, Banananunn, Orange Ginger, Tri-Berry, Lemon-Lime and Citrus Fruit. The serving size per tablet is two 8oz servings, which yields on standard 16oz water bottle. You can drop the product into the water and it dissolves on its own (I love this). Just like Nathan, no shaking, no mixing, and no mess. In contrast Nuun tabs have no fizz. I really enjoy the variety of the product flavors. My personal favorite flavor is the Orange Ginger. My 7-year-old daughter fell in love with Nuun. She is a water connoisseur. She drinks A LOT of water. She asked, “Can I try this product out?” I said,” absolutely.” For the last 5 weeks of soccer practice and games, she made sure she had her Nuun. She tried most of the flavors, but her favorite was Kona Cola. Unusual, since she doesn’t like cola flavored soda. I have to say this is our new sport drink. Today we headed off to 2 soccer games with 3 Nuun bottles; Kona Cola (7yr old daughter), Tir- Berry ( 4 yr old son), Banannnun (myself). What I love about this product is that there are no carbs or sugars. Nuun goal is to hydrate only. It is your personal preference on what to use for energy (gels, bars, candy, etc.). They are purely hydration, with the perfect balance of electrolytes. I really like this, as I am having issues finding the perfect energy supplements.

To summarize:

Gatorade

- Multitude of flavors

- Powder mix

- Tear away pouches

- 40 calories, 10g carb/ 10 g sugar.

- Still a great choice for general physical activities.

- Still a staple in my house.

- Hard to use with other supplements.

Nathan

- 3 flavors

- Tablets

- Water proof container,

- 0 calories, less than 1g carb/ sugar

- servings per tablet too large

- Fizzy taste

- Easy to use with supplements

Nuun

- 6 flavors

- Tablets

- Water proof container,

- 0 calories, 0 carbs/sugar

- No fizz, great taste

- Easy to use with supplements

After reviewing all these products if I had to rank them in order of personal preference

1) Nuun

2) Gatorade

3) Nathan

---Give Away---

Nuun was nice enough to offer my readers some of their tablets. 2 people will win 3 tubes of Nuun tablets (that is 36 tablets) in their most popular flavors: Tri-Berry, Lemon Lime, and Citrus Fruit. In order to enter the contest you must, in separate entries, do one or more of the following. Each entry will equal one chance of winning. Up to 5 chances per person. Qualifying entries must be listed in comment section of this post. This give away will end Friday Oct 29th at 6pm.

1) Become a follower of my page or let me know that you are a follower

2) Join Christas Fitness Challenge on Facebook or let me know you are already a member

3) Like Nuun on Facebook

4) Announce my give a away on your page /facebook/ twitter

5) Add me to your blogroll

Fantastic Friday

2010-10-22T08:50:00.000-04:00

That is what I tell my kids every Friday as they get on the bus "Have a Fantastic Friday".    (I have a litte phrase for each day)

This not really a post about me but about my kids. For the past few years they have had Mileage Club at their school . Mileage Club was done during recess, the kids would run the track and get a stick/ bracelet/ whatever every time they came around to keep track of how far they ran.   For every 5 miles they ran they would get a shoe tag that they could lace into there shoes laces and then at the end of the year they would get a 'Shoe Award" showing them the exact mileage that they ran during the school year.   How awesome is that!!!

Unfortunately, this year, due to lack of parent involvement they are not having the Mileage Club. My girls are really bummed. I told them "Just because you aren't having it at school, it doesn't mean we cant do it ourselves". So we started our own Mileage club this past Wednesday. My 9 year asked "Do you think I an run a marathon before the school year is out, if you add up all my miles?" I told her I think you can do it and probably way more". She is so excited!!!! So far in the last 2 days she has ran 2.5 miles ( umm it is October, school doesn't get out until June, the rate she is going she could have an Ultra in her future).       We are charting the mileage on the wall.

I am sure that all of my kids will be racking up the miles as the year goes on- I will keep you updated.
My girls are 9 and 7 and my boys are 4 and 3.    I cant wait to see how many miles we can all clear between now and the first week in June!!! I may have to add a few miles for myself today.

Have a Fantastic Friday!!!

Thankful Thursday

2010-10-21T14:17:00.001-04:00

I just couldn't take it anymore!!!!!! REST REST REST, a week of rest.

I got my 4 year old on the bus, then quickly went and dropped something off at the library. During my quick drive to the library I saw people running. AHHHHH They had perfect form. They looked like they were just flowing down the road.   I decided no more rest. I know I have a cold, I know I just ran Chicago 1.5 weeks ago. But I cant take it.   I looked in my rear view mirror and my 3 year old son was asleep in his car seat. WHAT , can I get a run in this afternoon?? I ever so gently picked him up out of his car seat and laid him down in his bed. (he didn't even move).     I then changed clothes ( I don't think I have ever changed into my running clothes so fast).

OH, it was like I met a long lost friend. Me and the treadmill meet again. It was weird at first having no specified mileage to run,   so I just ran. Started off slow and then at the end of my 3 mile journey cranked her up.    I didn't realize until I got off the treadmill how badly I needed that run!!!! It felt so nice.

I am officially signed up for the Kalamazoo Marathon. Let the countdown begin.

I wanted to share a sign someone said they saw during their Marathon (right around the 20 mile mark)- I am defiantly going to have to remember this one - In every WALL there is a window- Open it!!!
How awesome is that. Open the window , don't hit the wall!! LOVE IT

Hope everyone has a great day.
** I originally posted this message yesterday and called it Wonderful Wednesday, as I was laying in bed last night it dawned on me, wait a minute it isnt Wednesday, it is Thursday. Maybe it is the lack of running**

New training??

2010-10-19T14:52:00.000-04:00

Now that the Chicago Marathon is over, I must move on. I must move on the to the next race and a new training schedule.   The Kalamazoo Marathon May 8th (hoping for 55 and cloudy), I can dream right.   Most training schedules are about 18 weeks long, so that puts the start of my training around New Years Day. What a great way to start of the new year!?!? New year, new plan, new marathon. That's right, this is Kalamazoo's 1st Marathon, how fun is that. Kalamazoo( the town right next to where I live), is hosting its first marathon. They have had half marathons for 30 years but this is the first full, with both a half marathon and 5K that day.   I also just read that Erika over at Chasing my Monkeys 1 mile at a time, is running this marathon too, maybe we can have a bloggy meet up!!!

For my last 2 marathons I have used Hal Higdons Novice Supreme schedule (30 weeks long), this year I am just looking for a 18 week program. Now Hal Higdons programs are great, they have taken me through 4 half marathons and like I said 2 full marathons!!.   But I am feeling like I need more or something different. Do I just up to Hal Higdons Intermediate program   or do I do a different training program all together?   I am reaching out to you, any advice would be greatly appreciated.    I dont have any more time than I had with the other training programs but I feel as though I need more, I dont know what it is that I need- longer runs, less runs, more runs, etc.....

Between now and the start of the training I have a couple goals
   1) Complete my 1000 mile trek for 2010, if I did the math right I need to avg about 24 mile per week for this to happen. (we will see?!?!)
   2) Work alot on my core strength and upper body. I figure my legs can take care of themselves with running but the rest of me can get stronger.
3) Include some speed training. Now with the weather starting to get cold and the chance of snow really any day ( no did I just say that, ahhhh), most of my winter runs will be inside. So this will be done on a treadmill. Any plans that anyone follows for this would be great too?

Hope everyone is having a wonderful Tuesday. My body I think is finally revolting and attacking me full on with this cold that I held at bay during the end of the marathon training. It is like is it saying 'Ha you are done running, you took a break, you aren't running this out of you anymore'. I really hate when Mommy is sick, because their is no rest for her!!!!!

Long Overdue Chicago Marathon Recap (beware it is lengthy)!!!!

2010-10-17T23:27:00.003-04:00

Wow, it has all come to and end. The Chicago Marathon is over. The training time flew by (some days seemed longer than others). 26.2 miles were cleared on Sunday (10/10/10).

Sunday (October 10^th)- MARATHON DAY!!!! I was awake and ready. I still wasn’t feeling wonderful as I was fighting the cold that the rest of my family has. Earlier in the week my ear started hurting so I was on Augmentan (I didn’t need to attempt a 26.2 mile race with an ear ache). I was really on the fence about how much to eat before the race. I had to leave my hotel so early, stand in the corrals for a while and then run for 26.2 miles. I decided on a bagel with peanut butter and a banana., drank some water and had some Nunn before I headed out. Headed out of my hotel (Palmer House Hilton) at about 5:40a. I had plans to meet my friend B at her hotel (Hilton on Michigan) at 6a. Wow, even on the ½ mile walk from my hotel to hers there were people everywhere. I saw all the wheelchair racers getting to the start line, what an awe-inspiriting site to see. I met up the B, and we talked about how we weren’t feeling the best and how the weather was not going to be ideal. She and I began to strategize; ‘we will start out with the 4:30 group, and just adjust accordingly (how funny that sounds now, I surely adjusted). After going to the bathroom a couple times at the hotel we headed out to join everyone in the corrals. 45,000 runners are a lot of people to work your way through. We made our through the gates, and began our duck and weave process to get up to the 4:30 pace group. Phew, we made it. It was about 7:10 by the time we got to exactly where we wanted to be. I was looking around and right next to me was Dan Herman (one of the other diary writers). I don’t think we could have started the race off that close to each other if we planned it. It was so nice to start the race off with my friend B to my left and my fellow diary writer Dan to my right.

The National Anthem always sends chills down by back. When that song was played there was absolute silence in the corrals, very surreal. I didn’t hear the starting gun go off, but the people started moving forward. It took me 15:20 to clear the start line (not to bad considering the amount of runners). We are off and running.

Mile 1 - The first mile always chokes me up, and can only smile. The fan support right here (well and everywhere) is insane. People are yelling, banging cowbells, you name it. I love looking up at the bridge and seeing people 3 to 4 deep. When the race started the 4:30 pace group was right behind me. I wanted to make sure that I could keep them in my sights (did not want to start to fast). B and I were commenting that we could smell all the bakeries making cookies.

Mile 2- First aid station, grabbed some Gatorade. I didn’t really want that, but then I saw the water farther down the line. Had a quick swig of water. I knew my parents would be around here somewhere. That is the fun part about this marathon, spectators. Holy molly there is a lot of them. I spotted my parents, I ran right in front them and was so excited to see them.

Mile 3 - First 5K, I was holding great. Actually, I was running a little faster than I wanted to (31:15). Made the comment to B that we better start slowing down so we don’t die at the end (ha ha, funny to say that now). Now, the 4-mile trek north bound.

Mile 4-6 - Still running strong, I was starting to have the urge to go the bathroom (maybe it had something to do with the zillion people that I kept seeing peeling off to do the same). I didn’t want to stop here because the lines for the port potties were really long, nor was I up for a tree stop. Earlier when I met B at the hotel, she and others were putting their names on the font of their shirts. I decided to join in and it turned out to be the best idea. All the way spectators are yelling your name. What a boost. At the aid station at mile six I lost B (wasn’t sure if she was in front or behind me), so I had to continue on without her. Bummer. 10K mark and still doing well, 1:01

Mile 7- 8 My Bladder was really full now. Port potties line was nill at mile 8. I was in and out. Wow, the Boys town neighborhood is so much fun. Loud music, cheerleaders- awesome!!!

Mile 9- 12 - I was starting not to feel well. Come on, really, this is only the first half of the race. I had give myself a pep talk; “it’s just getting hot out (the conditions are not ideal) just go for it and do what you can”. I had taken some sports beans and chomps up to this point and was cruising along. There were some wonderful spectators on the left that had bags of oranges, yummy, grabbed one of those. That gave me a little rejuvenation. The shade felt very nice through down town. The heat radiating off the buildings was hot but the shade felt nice.

Mile 13 - Saw my parents again, my eyes were scanning and scanning. There they were. They asked me how I was doing. I said, “Doing ok, just starting to get hot”. At this point in the race, I think it was about 69. I had fallen a little off my time but my outside goal (4:48) was still obtainable. I was holding about a 10:50 pace. I knew, after running this marathon last year that the back half was going to be rough. Not much shade in my future. The marathon alert level at the point was up to yellow. Conditions were deteriorating. This is a slippery slope. The longer you are on the course the worse it gets. The worse it gets the longer it takes.

Mile 14 - Entering into the Charity Block party. Wow, what festive area. I knew that my friend S (the one that cried and took pictures during my 20 mile run) and family were going to be there. She saw me and was jumping up and down with such excitement. I asked her if she had seen B, she said, “Yes, she is not that far in front of you”. I was so excited she was still in the race. I was starting to get frustrated though. I know that B could dig really deep and I had a feeling she was going to blow me out of the water. I had to keep going. Being a Diary Writer was a huge force in keeping me alive in the race. I have to finish my journey.

Miles 15-17 These miles were rough, very sunny! My stomach was flipping over, and I was feeling really nauseous. I never did get sick but no matter what I was taking (water, Gatorade, sports beans, etc…) were not settling well. I was hoping to see my parents around mile 16 but missed them totally. I knew they were there and that was enough.

Mile 18 –20 My body was getting very stiff. It was starting to hurt to run (not a good thing when you are in a race). Not a muscle hurt, a whole body hurt. I saw someone in front of me throw up on the course, not something you want to see when you aren’t feeling well yourself. I was walking at this point, I felt bad, guilty, sick, depressed, and you name it. It is hard for words to describe unless you have experienced it yourself. “I CANT KEEP WALKING”. “This is the Chicago Marathon I need to run”. It became a mental race at this point, just complete it (I knew my goal time was way out of the window, since the 5:00 pace group had passed me). At this point my new goal was to at least beat last years time. At the corner of Halstead and 18^th (I think) I saw a bank sign with the temperature on it, 89 degrees. I was running, walking, whatever, and I was doing it in 89 degrees. Finish was the only thing on my mind.

Mile 21 - Right before the entrance into China town I saw the alert level was up to Red. Oh man, there is only one more level to go. As much as I was in pain, and not really enjoying getting beat by the heat, I wanted to finish. I know it sounds weird to say that I didn’t feel good; I was really tired (I could of just laid right there in the middle of the road and went to sleep). I wont let the course beat me. I WANTED TO FINISH THIS RACE.

Mile 22-23 I saw that there were bananas left at the aid stations (last year there were none left). I had half of a banana and threw the other half on the ground. As good as a banana sounded, it didn’t taste very good (at least at the moment). I was drinking so much water but I couldn’t quench my thirst. I knew that I was getting very dehydrated. I had 4 miles to go, only 4miles. One more big turn, and straight down Michigan Avenue. I was getting really really slow but kept putting one foot in front of the other.

Mile 24 - I made the turn onto Michigan Ave. There were signs on the side of the road that said “DIG DEEP”, and I started laughing. I had dug so deep up until that point that if I dug any deeper I would be in China. They’re where crazy amounts of spectators throughout the course, but the energy level is starting to pick back up. I swear I could see the crowds at the finish line. I was running a little but sadly walking more.

Mile 25 - 26 Not much farther , I can do this. I knew at this point I could crawl the rest of the way in and beat my time from last year. A 5:15 pacer passed me and one of the other runners asked him if he was on mark. We both got evil eyes ( I am guessing that was a no). Not that that is supposed to comfort me, but to know that the pacers even fall off time made me feel a little better. My parents said that they would be at mile 25 ¾. I was scanning and scanning but at the same time I was just focused on the big screen that was the corner of Roosevelt and Michigan (knowing that all I had to do was make that final little hill and then run the last 2). My dad jumped out onto the course (he said he had been yelling my name but I didn’t hear him). He was so excited to see me. He gave me 2 thumbs up and said, “You’ve got this, you are going to finish”. Wow, parents!!! I was so spent at this point, it hurt to move, but my Dad and Mom were so proud of me despite my horrible time. This gave me the motivation I needed for the last 2. I dug really deep and ran through the finish!!!!!

26.2 miles. - I said that I wanted to give it everything that I had. Well, I did do that. Was it the race that I wanted? No!!! Did I finish knowing that I did what I could despite the circumstances? Yes!!! I came through the finish line and almost passed out (the lady in front me dropped right at my feet). I walked for a little bit, got my medal and then my body started revolting. I walked over to the curb and sat down. Of course, they don’t want you sit here. The workers said, “You cant sit here, you need to get up and stretch”. I could hear the lady, but I just let her keep saying it until she made it all the way down to me. I told her, “if I stand up I am going to pass out or throw up on you”. I was done!!! One of the incredible volunteers went and got me some water and a bagel. They said,” You need to eat and get fuel in your body”. I tried; I drank some water and ate one bite of bagel. Sat there for a few minutes and then got up and started to walk down towards the meet and greet area. Somewhere in there, I got my picture taken (I don’t really remember that). I was getting really dizzy and light headed. I noticed some wheel chairs not that far from where I was. I walked over to them, grabbed the side of one, scorched to my knees and stopped for a few minutes. This was crazy. I had never ever experienced anything like this before. One of the medical personal came over to me and asked if I was ok. I said “NO”. They had me get in the wheel chair and they took me right to the Balbo Medical Tent. This was defiantly not the end of the race that I dreaming of. They took my blood pressure and it was way low. They piled all kinds of ice all over me, under my neck, on my forehead, etc… They lifted my feet up trying to get the blood pressure back up to rest of my body. They wanted me to drink, but I couldn’t do it. I knew I had to, but I just couldn’t stomach the water. So, since I was feeling sick they ended up giving me an IV in order to get fluids back in me. The coolness of the IV and the piles of ice finally cooled my body off so then I got freezing cold. How funny is that, 80 some degrees, 5 hours of sweating and now I am freezing. So, I went from ice packs to warming blankets. After about 30 minutes I was good to go.

After a quick shower (not much extra rest time, because of the medical tent intervention) we headed out for a Celebration dinner at Smith and Wollensky’s . The body is an amazing thing. I was just in the medical tent and now I’m off for a night on the town. I wore my medal out to dinner, feeling very proud that I finished. A little old man came up to me and asked if I had won the race. I laughed and said, “No I didn’t win the race but I won the battle, I finished!!!!”

As a diary writer we are supposed to be inspiriting and not scaring you away from running (this or any other marathons). So, after this was all done I hade time to think about what happened, what went wrong? This run was so frustrating for me (as most of training went well, especially my 20 mile run). I am very frustrated but not defeated!!!! Here are my conclusions of what happened. I had been fighting a cold and then an earache. I did not know (until we started researching) that prescription medicine can throw off your sodium /potassium levels, especially when exercising. That could have been an issue: Problem 1. Due to traveling in for the race, did I hydrate correctly, eat correctly, and sleep properly? Probably not: Problem 2. Then the one factor that none of us could control, the weather!!! I just read in Runners World Magazine, the ideal temperature for a marathon is 50. For every 10 degrees of increase you lose 3% of your overall time. Well, since the temperature was 65 to start off with, we were all ready in the negative. The weather station said on Monday, that it officially got to 84 (but like I said I think it was hotter down town). So if that were case I would already be about 10% off my overall time: Problem 3. Did I train hard enough; have enough long runs, train in adverse conditions? Problem 4.

My husband stayed home with all of our kids, because we figured that it would just be easier than trekking them all over town (we did that last year and they were miserable). Of course last year it was 35 and this year it was in the 80’s. My family tracked me through the tracking system. That was nice. I will admit, that when I got home and saw my husband I cried. This was not the finish to my marathon journey that I wanted!!!

I did improve my time from last year (6:05), so I have to look at the positives. Neither year has been the best, last year I was coming off an IT Band injury and this year well, heat. Maybe my next Marathon will be in ideal conditions. Yes, I am going to do this again. I have to see what I can really achieve. I know that I have more; I believe that I can do better.

As for my friend B, she finished 15 minutes in front of me. She too, along with most of the people running, took a beating from the heat. She ran a few miles with Dan (one of the dairy writers), after she lost me at mile 6. Then she lost him at another water station too. I want to extend a HUGE thank you to her for trusting me (and others) when we told her that she could become a marathon runner!!! You did it. On a sad note for me, this was our last run together as B and her family are moving to Colorado. Maybe someday we will get to lace up our shoes and run together again!!!

I am going to leave with something that Dan Herman sent in email to me and B

Marathoning is a strange thing. After spending so much time preparing for it, we are left with "this". Some elation for surviving, some sadness that it is over. Plenty of questions as to what is next.

Wow, if you made it this far in my post- Thank you, it is so hard trying to summarize what you experience in a marathon. !!!

I finished...... that is all I can say

2010-10-11T15:47:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to let everyone know I finished. No where near my goal times, very disappointing. Lets just say- 65 degrees at the beginning and 85 + degrees for the last 13 miles. It was BRUTAL!!!

I will come back with more details soon, but I did finish!! In a not so glorious 5:41. BLAH!! But I finished and got my medal.

Thoughtful Thursday

2010-10-07T20:45:00.000-04:00

My mind is just a flutter in anticipation for Sunday. Today was my last run, 2 miles, it seemed really wierd to just go run 2 miles . That was it, marathon training (for this marathon that is) is over- 479.8 miles. Is that enough? I think so!!! I know that lots of people run many more miles than that but I followed the training program. I am ready!!!

You know what I love, is seeing other people running while driving through town. What I love even more is when my kids spot them. Yesterday I was out doing errands and my 4 yr old son just yells out ' Mom, mom there's is runner'. How cool is that?!

Lots of people have posted their goals for their marathons. I am some what heistate, why I am not sure , but here it goes.

1) 4:48 I announced way back when this training started, that is 11 min/ mile. But I have not ran that speed all training. Funny how you set your intial goals and then you get faster throughout.

2) 4:34 This is the pace that I kept for my 20 mile run ( but we took our dilly dally time through all our water stations), so I am thinking I have faster in me

3) 4:30 This is holding a 10:18 min /mile. (This is the pace group that I am starting with, basically my starting spot amongst 45,000 runners) I would be super happy!!

4) 4:22 This is holding a 10 min/ mile ( I would be ecstatic!!! )

5) anything faster than that I would be flipping over jumping for joy.

Last year I ran this marathon, coming off of an IT band injury. No running for the 6 weeks prior to the race. Not fulfilling all the training, yet I still finished in the allotted time 6:05. Not the prettiest time by any means but I finished, and that was all my goal was. This year though, I am going out for vengeance, I want to give it all I have.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-06T08:31:00.002-04:00


Park 2 Park Half Marathon

Back of my shirt for the Chicago Marathon

Active Water 5K

2010-10-03T22:21:00.000-04:00

What a fun way to start a Saturday morning, running with 12 of your friends!! 12 of my fellow MOPS (Mother of Preschoolers ) moms and myself ran the Active Water 5K here in town. This was such a fun run. Not only was it right here in town, on our own stomping grounds, but for alot of them this was there first 5K ever.

Everyone had a great time ( as least I think they did)- no one has told me other wise.

As for myself, how did I do. I got my Personal Record- 26:02!!! My last official 5K was back in March when I ran in 32 min. My fastest 3 mile training run was in 26:40, so I was soooo excited when I crossed that finish line. The last 2 races have yielded me Personal Records , can I go 3 in a row ( I really hope so)- next up Chicago Marathon.

Marathon Celebration

2010-10-02T18:00:00.000-04:00

In honor of running the Chicago Marathon next weekend a few friends threw B and I a "Marathon Party". It was the coolest thing- they all kinds of details . Under the Theme of

I can not begin to express how much this means to me. So nice to have such incredible friends.

I commented to my kids that I cant remember the last time going to a party that was being thrown in my honor

THANK YOU EVERYONE

Wow, such an emotional day!!

ALO WINNER

2010-10-01T18:27:00.000-04:00

Well, my 1st giveaway is over and the winner is

#2
JillConyers

Please go to the ALO site and then contact me with your size information and address. www.runmommyrun4@gmail.com

Keep an eye out for more reviews and giveaways coming up soon!!!

September Recap

2010-10-01T10:45:00.000-04:00

I saw over on Running Divas site that she recaped September. I thought what a fun idea. So here we go.

Miles ran : 138.1
Long Runs : 18,14, 20, 13.1
Rest Day : 11
Total miles for 2010 : 752.3
Miles still needed to reach 1000 for 2010 : 247.7

What a fun month!!! Had an spectacular 20 mile run and PR'd at the Park2Park Half Marathon last weekend.

Looking forward to the Chicago Marathon next weekend!!!

Last chance to enter my giveaway- the winner will be chosen at 6pm.

The Count down

2010-09-30T14:35:00.000-04:00

10 days until 10-10-10, Wow!!!!! Chicago Marathon here in come. 4 more training runs left.

One more day to enter my giveaway!!!

Christa

Wonder Wednesday

2010-09-29T14:13:00.000-04:00

Why is it that even though I already have my run done for the day, if I see people out running I want to run? While I was out doing errands today I saw 4 different people, in 4 different places running. Why does that pump me up so much?? One of them even had a Dances with Dirt Technical shirt on, I think I just put that on my bucket list. Sounds like blast. Any takers for a relay team?

Managed my big whopping 3 mile run this morning. 1st mile I was really dragging but after that I was pumped by the music. Now the show that was playing on my little TV screen was bit to be desired. The TV on the treadmill is linked to the TV in our bedroom ( for whatever reason), so whatever channel that is on is what I have to watch. Well, my husband must of fallen asleep watching PBS (which is good and all) but do you know what is playing at 6a on PBS "Between the Lions", a cartoon. Thank goodness it was only a 3 mile run, or else I would of had to get of the treadmill run upstairs and change the channel. Good thing the local radio station was playing some pumping music at that time ( through my ear buds).

Dont forget to enter my giveway , it ends Friday.

Have a "Wonder full" Wednesday!!!

Christa

Taper Tuesday

2010-09-28T10:23:00.001-04:00

This week starts the taper time, gearing up for the Chicago Marathon next weekend. What?!? It is next weekend already??? Wow, this training time has just flown by.

Tapering is kind of weird. You work so hard week in and week out, gradually increasing mileage, making our long runs longer. Now I feel like we are just sitting still. I have 20 miles of training left, over the next 2 weeks. No double digit runs, weird. Tomorrow I have 3 mile run, I haven't run that distance by itself in a loooong time. Sadly though, I think it is going to be hard. What I have learned for myself, is that it takes a while for my body to get into gear, usually about 3 miles. So this should be interesting. How about you? Does it take awhile to get into the groove?

Also, as part of Marathon vibes, I joined into Running Divas 10/10/10 Virtual 10K. I figure the last 10K (of my marathon on 10/10/10) I will need as much motivation/ inspiration that I can get. Best of luck to everyone in there 10K

Dont forget to enter my giveaway for an ALO bra. it ends on Friday.

Park2Park Half Marathon recap

2010-09-26T19:23:00.000-04:00

Schedule called for a 12 mile run, but B and I decided to run a ‘local’ half marathon (about an hour away) instead. As you can tell I have a wonderful friend B, whom I have done all my long runs with, we figured out that this was going to be our last run together until the big day. It is so nice to have a friend with a similar pace, and equal dedication to get you through the tough spots. B and I left at 6a for the drive up to Holland. We had to arrive a little early as we had not picked up or bibs /t-shirt yet. We had a very uneventful drive on the way up. We anticipated a long trip home, because at 6a they were setting up a classic car show in one of the towns that we had to drive through. At the start line /package pickup area there wasn’t enough parking so we had to park down the road a ways and get shuttled in. That was very nice. We had to decide what to bring with us. The biggest question mark was to run with jackets or no jackets. It was really chilly out at this time of the morning and super windy. We both decided to bring our jackets and worse come to worse just tie them around our waist (plus then this gave me a couple extra pockets for sport beans). Bib pickup was very smooth and painless; we got our stuff and went directly to the bathroom. Wanted to get that out of the way before the lines started. They had nice gear check there, so B checked our bags with our long sleeve race shirts that we got. It was so nice that we got there early because we were in and out of gear check and the bathroom before any lines appeared. We still had about 30 mins or so before the start of the race, so we hung out in the warm building. The start of the race was right outside the door so we hung out for as long as we could. With this being a smaller race, there were no pace groups (corrals) or anything. At about 8:15 we headed outside thinking about hitting the bathrooms again, but after we saw the long lines at the both the bathroom indoors and the porta johns we both figured we were good to go. Good thing we saw the foresight and went earlier. Here we go – 13.1 miles

Mile 1- 2.5 Before the start of the race B and I had been talking about how far we both have come in our ‘short’ running lives. I joked and said if I trained hard maybe someday I could qualify for Boston, I would just need to shave off about a one min or so per mile (and hold that pace for 26.2 miles, sounds so easy). Well mile one went by and B looked at her watch as said “Holy smokes we did that in 8:35, we Boston qualified for one mile”. I laughed but said ‘ Oh man, that is great but we better slow down’. Amazing what a little ‘race mode’ does to your speed. We slowed a little but not that much for the next few miles. First water stop was at mile 2.5, they were slightly unprepared (didn’t have any cups ready) but with being a smaller race they were able to pour fairly fast. There were some fun fans around this point; they were holding these big signs on poles. The only things on the signs were faces of people. They were bobbing them up and down trying to grab the attention of the racers whose faces they were. That was pretty cool.

Mile 3- 5 These miles were through a wooded area that was only about a block from Lake Michigan. For those of you not from the Great Lakes Region, imagine running next the ocean. The nice fall crisp air was making the run fairly easy. You could smell wood burning fires coming from near by houses. It was so peaceful and serene. B checked her watch at the 4 mile mark and we were at 36min , which is still way to fast. This would have been fine if the half marathon was our final goal. But really this was supposed to be a training run not a race. But we continued on at this pace, we were feeling too good.

Mile 5-7 These couple of miles were a little hairy. We made the turn onto a fairly busy road (or at least it seemed to be). They didn’t have a path blocked off or anything for the runners so there were cars still going in both directions. Every couple of blocks you would see signs that said ‘ Beware runners on the road’. So, for these couple of miles you had to be really focused not only on your running but the cars coming at you and the road kill that seemed to pop up on the road.

Mile 8- Oh man, this mile was crazy. Up to this point it was windy but the trees and houses were blocking a lot of the wind coming off the lake. It was still rough but tolerable. This mile, was a different story. The 8^th mile took us through the beach access parking lot. Which on most days would be fantastic; water and sand to your left, empty parking lot to your right, nice little breeze- priceless. Today, different story, 50 degrees out and 20 mph winds yields a hard run. First half of the mile into the wind, then you turn and the wind is picking up the sand and throwing it at you. Of course, we all have shorts on so the pelting of sand against your legs feels oh so great. Where do they have the photographer for the race? Right here, taking pictures of every one getting sand blasted. Cant wait to see those pictures, our facial expressions will be just wonderful. On a normal day this would have been great; sun, beach, water. At this point, with the wind and sand, I had to have a mental conversation with myself. ‘ This is a training run, not a real half marathon, even though I am in the middle of a race. I don’t want to go all out and get injured with Chicago being only 2 weeks away’. I slowly started to back out of race mode and back into training mode, which is where I should have been all along. But as we all know this is easier said than done. B left me at this point, and continued running strong, it was a race right? I could see her about an 1/8 to ¼ mile in front of me

Mile 9-11 Since I was now focusing on training I started to run/walk, even though I do not plan on doing that in the marathon. I knew that I flew out the first 7 miles way above my marathon pace and just didn’t want to get hurt. The wind was still pretty strong along this part of the route. The water station at 9.5 had some bananas, so I grabbed one of those and then continued on. I normally don’t eat real food on races, but it had been a long time since breakfast. I figured, go with the ‘real supplement’ instead of the sports beans I had in my pocket.

Mile 11 –12 Made the last turn before the before the finish line. The spectators were yelling ‘Your almost there’. I jokingly said to the guy running next to me ‘ I really don’t like hearing that unless I have .1 to go’; he said ‘No kidding’.

Mile 13 Even though I knew this was the last mile, I was still run /walking it. Just didn’t want to hurt myself with all the wind (now if this was the marathon, I would be going all out). All I wanted to see was 2:15 or less (as that is what I ran my last 13 mile training run in). I was running next to a guy that seemed to be struggling, I told him ’Doing good only one more mile to go, you’ve got this’. He said ‘ Yeah, I keep telling myself slow and steady wins the race’. When he said that all of a sudden I started to worry, how slow was I going? Did I mess my training up? Did I really dog this race? My real goal for the race was 2:10, which would have been holding a 10 min/ per mile pace. Imagine my huge surprise when I made the final turn and saw the clock. I still had the .1 to go, but the clock said 2:05:50. WHAT, seriously!?!?! I almost started crying right then and there. I gave everything I had and flew over the finish. My official chip time was 2:05:44. CRAZY!!!!! I was so excited. I would of never ever dreamt of that. B crossed in 1:59:21. I joked with B and said ‘How am I going to even explain this one, I ran hard for the first 7, ran/ walked for the last 6 and still managed to pull off a 2:05:44. I am still in awe. The only bummer of the race was no medal or ribbon for the trophy case. They gave us 13.1 stickers; but both B and I commented that we ran for the medal. In a weird sort of way the sticker still means the same thing. I can imagine the future conservation; “Hey, B remember the race where got a sticker”. Oh well, it was still a lot of fun. I would definitely run that one again. Wow, what will Chicago bring?????

We turned the wrong way getting out of Holland then got stuck due to the Classic Car Show but made it home. I flew in side, took the fastest shower possible and headed directly up to my daughters soccer game. I caught the last half of her game. I missed my son’s game but made my daughters. Since I wasn’t sure if I was going to make either of their games (mom guilt here) I printed out pictures of soccer balls and left them on the kitchen table wishing them both luck. They really loved that!!!!

HALF MARATHON PR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-09-25T14:57:00.000-04:00

Just a quick update (details to come tomorrow)- ran the Park 2 Park Half Marathon. It was a great run. Goal time of 2:10 and crossed that finish line at 2:05:44 YIPEEEEEE.

ALO Product Review and Giveaway

2010-09-24T06:27:00.001-04:00

I had the opportunity to test some new clothing. ALO (Air.Land. Ocean) graciously sent me a sports bra and a pair of running shorts.

Per ALO’s website: Our team has created a collection of performance clothing named for the elements that we live within : Air, Land and Ocean. Each carefully designed piece was created to perform with you while promoting a life style and well being. Through the use of recycled and minimal impact materials, ALO creates high performance active wear that delivers superb function, fit and style. With environmentally mindful design and production processes, our men's and women's collections utilize eco-friendly performance fabrics that provide outstanding comfort and results.

ALO’ s Vision statement is : Produce high quality lifestyle wear through processes that mitigate our carbon footprint by utilizing reclaimed and recycled materials, maintain a sustainable office environment and most impact fully pass this knowledge along to our customers so they can make easy green decisions. Any act of “ Green- ness” is helpful to our planet. To see how ALO is making the world a ‘greener place’ check out their Define your Green Page

If you want to see an incredible video watch the ALO 2010 Fall Holiday Photo shoot here.

I will use my same criteria for this review as I have done in the past

1) Fit according to size

2) Material

3) Chafing/ Rubbing Issues

4) Clothing riding up or falling down

5) Ability to get off of body after strenuous workout

6) Price Comparability

7) Accessory Capable

8) Compared to ‘favorite item of mine’

I had the opportunity to try out their High Impact Color Block Workout Bra and a pair of Running Shorts

1) Fit according to size - I ordered a size Medium, according to their size chart, for both the top and bottom. The top fit perfect. The shorts seemed a little baggy, but I think it may be the style, ‘Relaxed’. Overall they fit great, you will see later it doesn't effect performance. If you prefer a loose style this would be a good choice.

2) Material - The Color Block Workout Bra is made of 92% Polyester 8% Spandex. The shorts have Shell 1 which is 100% polyester and then the liner which is 96% polyester and 5% Spandex. Not sure what it is about these materials, but both of these items have to be lined dried ( which most of the gear does not).

3) Chafing/ Rubbing Issues- Happy to report that I had absolutely no issues with either of these products in this area. I put 35 miles on them both, with most of that being in a 20 mile run. No chafing/ rubbing at all!! A strange thing did happen on my first test run in these shorts. The black color of the shorts actually rubbed off onto my skin. Then again they bled onto my other running gear when I tossed it in the laundry. I should have known better than to throw a brand new pair of black shorts in with other clothes. It didn't cross my mind, since none of my other running gear has ever had that problem. The die that bled on my skin came off easily in the shower. I soaked the rest of my gear for couple days and rewashed; all the die was gone there too. I told ALO about this issue and they said ‘ That is definitely not the norm and I hope it wasn't to much of an inconvenience’. Ever since that one incident this has not been a problem.

4) Clothing riding up or falling down- Really no issues in this department either. The shorts rode up just a teeny tiny bit on the 20 mile run, but that wasn't until about mile 18. Even then it was very negligible. That may not of even been the shorts, it could of just been me sweating .

5) Ability to get off of body after a strenuous workout- Both of these items I could get off very easily, even after a 20 miler.

6) Price Comparable- The Color Block Workout Bra retails for $36 and the Running Shorts for $38 . By checking other stores I frequent for running gear, the ALO bra is very comparable. Checking out Road Runner Sports (where most of my running shorts are from), ALO is a little more expensive. With that being said, I like the comfort of these shorts more than most of my other shorts. In my opinion worth the few extra dollars.

7) Accessory Capable- The bra has nothing ( which most bras dont). The shorts do offer a key pocket that lays between the liner and you ( where most of my shorts have the key pocket). I don't use the key pockets for keys that is where I hold my MP3 player. One gear pocket is the minimum I will accept in a pair of shorts.

8) Compared to ‘favorite item of mine’ - ALO , is the on the top of my list for sports bras right now. You are the first company that I found that does not chafe under the bra line. Number 1 in my book. Plus, you are the first ‘color’ workout bra that I have owned, a very nice thing for variety. Very nice bra, it could be worn on its own for a workout, but I am just not that kind of girl. The shorts are very comfortable, I would put them right up near the top too. I would of like to see a gear pocket, in addition to the key pocket. Moving the key pocket between the liner and shorts would be even better. Besides that, great shorts. I would rank them around 2 or 3 out of the 6 pair I own.

Overall great products, the only downside for me is that the items have to be lined dried. This really is not a big deal considering they are wicking material and they dry real fast. With 4 kids in my house time is of a virtue. A big thanks to the ALO team for giving me this opportunity to review your gear. Head on over to ALO to get some new workout gear. While you are there input the discount code of " Bloglove2010" for some savings on your order.

** Disclaimer: I was not paid to do this review, this is just my opinion. **

Give A Way- Here is the part where you get to have fun. ALO has so kindly offered to give a way, to one of my lucky readers, the same Color Block Bra ( AWESOME).

There are many ways to enter the give-way ( do each entry separately)

1) Like ALO on Facebook

2) Visit ALOSport.com and “Like” your favorite item (by clicking on the like icon and comment

3) Follow ALO on Twitter

4) Become a follower of my blog , or if you already are let me know.

5) Become a member of ‘Christa’s Fitness Challenge on Facebook

6) Announce about my giveaway on your blog

This giveaway ends October 1st at 6pm EST. Winner will be chosen using Random.org Only open to US residents.

Thank you!!!

Hump Day Hello

2010-09-22T08:50:00.000-04:00

Wow, is it Wednesday already. Where is this week going? Just wanted to give you a heads ups up to come back on Friday for my Air. Land. Ocean Product review and also my first giveaway ( of an Air. Land. Ocean product)

See you then!!

Christa

2010 Chicago Marathon Rap

2010-09-21T08:41:00.000-04:00

One of my flellow Chicago Marathon diary writters, Andrew Spector , made this awesome song about running the Chicago Marathon ( I am sure though it can be used for any marathon on 10-10-10)

So emotional and motivational. Its OUR TIME~~~

Chicago Marathon Rap

Crazy gardening, 20 miler recap, shout out to Kelly and more.

2010-09-19T10:09:00.000-04:00

Still running at 16 of 20 miles

Holy Moly, has it been a week since my last post. Wow, time just flew by. This week was just crazy. If you want to get a detailed recap on my entire monster week of running (40 miles, the most I have ever ran) , click here to go to my Chicago Marathon Blog.

B and I still smiles at mile 16

My 20 mile run was awesome!!! My first ever!!! Yes, last year I did run a marathon but wasnt able to complete the full training for it due to injury. This was one of the most fun runs; a big thanks to my friend B for running with me and to some great friends who helped us along the way. Taper time starts now, hoping that my body doesnt revolt; have a Half Marathon on par for next weekend (looking for my new PR). I just cant believe that the Chicago Marathon is 21 days away!!!!

Another week full of gardening and processing. Last week I was so excited when I found the bottom of the 21 gallon tote that was full of tomatoes. Well, guess what came home with my husband on Tuesday;

3/4 of the way full of tomatoes

Green Peppers

More Green Peppers

This whole week in between marathon training and running my kids to and from activites I have made 30 jars of spaghetti sauce. Now up- Salsa making, just have to run to the store and grab some onions. We tried planting those last year and had no success. The weather is starting to get really cold here at night, down in the 40's (well at least for the Fall), so I am hoping we can get the rest of the harvest off before it goes bad.

Jalapenos

Our few colored peppers

Kelly, over at Secrets of a Running Mom, had a asked a question a few weeks back on "Food not ruling this house', and I responded telling her about little 'secret's that I do and shared a few recipes with her. How awesome, because now she is sharing some of my favorite recipes with all of you (1 at a time though). Thank you so much !!! Congrats Kelly on finishing the Air Force Marathon- WAY TO GO!!!!!

On an ending note. Not sure if this is a deal at your house or not, but I was out shopping for razors ( one of the wonderful joys of being a women) and came across Bic Soleil Shimmer razors, nothing fancy about them ,BUT they came with a free pair of Ear Buds. I don't know about you, but I go through a lot of Ear Buds in my training. So go check your local store and see if they have the same deal. I found mine at Meijer.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!!! Catch up with you soon. I am going to try and enjoy my taper weeks here before 10-10-10. How does your body handle tapering?

Christa

About Me

2010-09-12T16:17:00.000-04:00

Just updated the about me section, if you want to get a peak on how I got to where I am today.

Another week down ( and more)

2010-09-08T09:31:00.000-04:00

Sorry, it has been a week since my last post but it has just been crazy busy around here.
Last week I ran the most miles that I have ever ran before (36) , but I see higher mileage weeks in my future. If you want to see a detail breakdown on how I got my runs in last week, click here ( my Chicago marathon diary entry). I am already 2 runs into this week ( 13 miles down, 19 miles to go).

My friend (B) and I on our 18 mile run ( I am in orange)

School started here yesterday, 3 out of my 4 are in school this year. Now starts the jockeying around of my running schedule. The summer made the running so much easier. Now I have to time my runs around bus stop pick ups/ drop offs, open houses, soccer practices, etc.... Sadly, the best time to run is very, very early in the morning. My alarm went off today at 4:20am, I hit the snooze and layed there trying to convnice myself that there was some way that I could continue sleeping and do the run later. There was no option, I HAD TO GET UP. Ran 9 miles on the treadmill, flew up the stairs, turned the coffee pot on, jumped in the shower ( had exactly 10 minutes before my girls got up for school). Got it done- the life of a mom!!!!

Harvesting still. All the tomatoes that were pictured in my last post have been cut and up either processed or awaiting processing. 11.5 jars of pizza sauce have been made. We have lots of tomaotes cut up awaiting to made into some fresh and canned salsa ( we just have to get the peppers and onions.)

On Monday, my husband went out to our garden and returned with these tomatoes.

Let me tell you a 21 gallon tote full of tomatoes is alot of tomatoes. Tomorrow starts processing round 2- more pizza sauce , finish up salsa and some spaghetti sauce. This is not all of the tomatoes, my husband says there are more . Hopefully, the weather doesnt decide to get to cold or our crop is going to stop.
I also canned up 8 jars of grape jelly.

So, now that school started, Is getting your runs in harder? Do you have shuffle around your times of running?

Healthy Eating

2010-09-01T13:29:00.000-04:00

As fellow bloggers have been discussing trying to eat healthy to help our running / fitness. I thought I would talk a little about our garden harvest this summer. For the past 3 years, we have had what we call a 'community garden', it really isn't for the whole community but really just for 3 family's ( ours and 2 others). Our goal every year is to plant enough vegetables to yield us enough product for the year. Not sure what happened this year but our garden went crazy. Ya, we planted a little more this year but holy cow. When we came home from our vacation this summer we didn't even have time to unpack, we had to get the vegetables out of the garden or they would of gone bad. So far this is what we have yielded for just our house ( I have no idea how much stuff the other two families have, but if I had to guess, I would guess close to the same amount)
61 bags of 2 cup portions of shredded zucchini
65 bags of 1 cup portions of pureed zucchini
33 bags of 1 cup portions of pureed yellow squash
7 gallon size bags of broccoli
130 cut up zucchini medallions (breaded ) for future frying
40 cucumbers
85 pint size jars of canned green beans

We have had a few weeks break while the next harvest turned. But now it is tomato season. My husband came home on Monday with this

Not quite ripe yet

Ripe

Almost ripe

Almost Almost ripe

These tomatoes are sitting in brown paper bags ripening up fast.

My husband informed me that he will be coming up tomorrow with just as many, if not more tomatoes. Yummy. I see lots of salsa, spaghetti sauce and pizza sauce making in our future.

This is what is left of our zucchini and squash. Trying to get creative on what to make with it.

We also have grape vines down our driveway that are about at peak. So I will have to start picking those off to make some Grape juice and jelly.

Love the healthy food. Even though I will admit that it does take time to make homemade stuff, but it is so worth it.!! I know exactly what is in it- there is no High Fructose Corn Syrup in any of my stuff!!!!

Happy Healthy Eating everyone- . Trying to gear up for the 5 mile run I have to get in today.

New Miles, New Shoes, New Opportunities

2010-08-30T11:33:00.000-04:00

That is the title that I used for my diary this week in the Chicago Marathon blog. Click on over here to see a recap of my last week of running.

Enjoy today, as the summer heat is back in full gear here in MI!!!!

Oiselle Clothing Review

2010-08-29T22:36:00.000-04:00

I had the opportunity to test out some new gear. Oiselle, a company founded by Sally Bergesen, was so gracious to let me try out a shirt and a pair of shorts. ,

Per Oiselle's website , Oiselle (pronounced Wa-zell) A French word for Bird, it alludes to the feeling of weightlessness that most runners know and love. the sense of flight where your legs go fast and your heart goes free.

Trying out new gear can be fun and scary. You already know what your 'favorite' shirts, shorts, etc.. feel like; so you have high expectations for your new clothing. I wanted to make sure that I gave this gear a good review, so I came up with a few 'standard questions' that I was going to ask myself about it ( I plan on using this type of format for future reviews. I am open to suggestions if you think there is something I'm missing, or you would like more details on) My goal in finding good equipment is value. I don't search out the cheapest price, nor do I buy into name brand logos. I expect a high level of performance at a fair price. This may come from your trusted name brands, or someplace unexpected.

Fit according to size
Material
Chafing/ Rubbing issues
Clothes riding up or falling down
Ability to get off of body after a strenuous workout
Price comparable
Accessory Capable
Compared to 'favorite item of mine'

I had the opportunity to try their 'Isabel Shimmel Shirt', in Oiselle orange and the 'Lori Shorts' in black. I decided what better way to test this gear out, than give it an entire week worth of running and wearing. Don't worry I washed it after each run. The clothing endured 29 miles of running and 4 washings within 5 days.

Fit according to size- I ordered a size Medium, according to their size chart, for both, the top and the bottom. They both fit perfectly.
Material- The Isabel Shimmel shirt is made of 89% Polyester and 11% Spandex (which makes this shirt very light). As their name implies, I felt free as a 'bird' wearing it. The Lori Shorts are 100% polyester.
Chafing/ Rubbing Issues- The shirt causes absolutely no issues of any sort. The shorts, surprisingly after the 4th run of the week ( which was a 12 mile run) yielded me a small chafe mark ( about the size of a dime). Located just above my tailbone where the waistband is. I never felt them chaffing at all until I stepped into the shower. Considering I wore them for a week straight, I would say overall, no issues. I think if they were in a normal rotation there would be no chafing.
Clothing riding up or falling down- Shirt again, no problem (Can you tell yet that I love this shirt). The shorts were riding up a little but nothing to bad. This was most noticeable on my long runs (8 and 12), the material of these shorts seems to almost repel water ( I could see the water beading up on the outside of my shorts). That is everywhere, except for the inner thigh part of the shorts. Not sure if the water was just gravitating towards that part of the shorts but all the moisture seemed to be sitting there. When I would slow down or stop for some water, the shorts would ride up. But again nothing that I couldn't run through.
Ability to get off of body after a strenuous workout - Both of these I could get off easily, which I was very excited about. I have found out with other garments, especially the razor back type shirts that once they get wet they are very hard to slide off. But not this shirt, even after being soaking wet.
Price comparable: Isabel Shimmel Shirt retails for $46 and the Lori Shorts retail for $36. These prices are compared to Road Runner Sports (RRS), which is where most of my gear is from. My current RRS shirt ( that is close to the Oiselle one) retails for $34.99. I would gladly pay the extra $11 for this very lightweight shirt. My RRS shorts retail for $29.99
Accessory Capable- The shirt has no pockets for accessories, but does have a built in bra. The shorts have what they call a 'key pocket', that is tucked in between the shorts and the liner (which I really liked). I didn't use this pocket for a key, I used it as a holder for my MP3 player. Which was great!! Most of my current shorts have their 'key pockets', on the inside of the liner, near your body. Between the liner and the shorts is more comfortable.
Compared to 'favorite item of mine' - Well, Oiselle you will be happy to know that your Isabel Shimmel Shirt is my new favorite razor back shirt. I currently own another shirt (from RRS) but yours is so light and comfortable. I truthfully feel free as a 'bird' LOVE IT. The Lori Shorts- I would place as number 2, in my stack of running shorts ( I currently own 5 pairs). Things that put them at 2; riding up (a little), no extra gear pocket and holding moisture. Even though they are made of the exact same material as all of my other shorts, they seemed a little heavier. That being said they are still my second choice. You couldn't go wrong with these shorts. They will see many more miles. '

Overall, I would give Oiselle 2 thumbs up. Their clothing is very comfortable. I was very impressed with the razorback shirt. Pricing for their products is on par with other competitors. Quality is exceptional. Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity to review your gear. Head on over to Oiselle and get some new gear.

*Disclaimer, I was not paid to do this review, this is just my opinion *

Supplements

2010-08-28T16:10:00.000-04:00

Twice in one day blogging away. So, as I posted in my last blog I am really trying to figure out this supplement thing for long runs. I talked to someone today at our local shoe store Gazelles and she recommended Cliff Shot Bloks, Energy Beans, Gu, etc... , she basically said it depends upon what you can stomach during your run. She did say the big key is making sure that you are properly hydrated and especially on long runs, to start 'fueling' yourself early in the run. Very true. I did pick up a package of Gu, cliff shot bloks and sports beans ( I will slowly experiment with them)

But here is my thing- why do I want to give my body and bunch of stuff that I don't understand ( hence the ingredients on the back of the package). Are these supplements better for you than straight up food? I would much rather fuel myself with the 'real' stuff than 'made up' stuff. I found this interesting article.

What do you think?

Has anyone ever tried making there own energy bars? I LOVE to cook and make healthy food.

Week in Review

2010-08-28T08:44:00.000-04:00

Wow- it is very hard to beleive that another week of marathon training / summer vacation has slipped by. School is starting very soon (Tuesday after Labor Day) for my older 3 kids and the marathon is only 43 days away. Time is flying by.

I am happy to report that I did get all my runs in for the week, which as we all know is sometimes a huge feat. I got a total of 29 miles ( a step back week), which has felt so nice. The miles went like this - Monday 4 miles in 38:00 Tuesday 8 miles 76:30

Wednesday 5 miles 47:03 Friday 12 miles 1:59:48

Question: Do you ever have runs where your overall time is good (my 12 mile run above) but you are still disappointed in the outcome? Why is that? My goal for the 12 miles was 2:00, I broke it (not by much, but I did). So why am I sad? Because I got a headache (described below), got a side stitch that took me to walking for a few strides. I don't know. I really shouldn't be mad or sad, but I am. The goal really is just to clear miles, while improving, right. I should be ecstatic, last year at this time, I got injured and was never able to complete anymore of my marathon training ( so now I am in unknown territory).

Still trying to experiment and find the right 'fuel' for my long runs. If you read my Chicago Marathon blog from last week, I have not needed / used any supplements during my long runs. But now I am running out of energy on the long runs. Yesterday, I tried GU gummies (for the first time, thanks to my friend B). Well, I will be truthful- I didnt really feel any different from if I had them or not. The only thing that I did notice was that I got a headache about a 1 mile after I took them. Is it purely coincidence or can headache be a side affect? What do you use? Lots of other sites out there have been talking about proper fueling during long runs, but there is so much information and so many things that can be taken before, during and after that it almost gets overwhelming. I think I have the before and after figured out but am still lost during. It gets so scary to experiment with only 6 weeks to go until the marathon, but at the same I would rather know now than later. Does that make sense? I would like to have a game plan for next weekend , planned long run 18 miles.

Have a wonderful weekend. Looks like it is supposed to be beautiful here, summer is making one last showing

Chica Band Review

2010-08-25T20:59:00.001-04:00

Meg Perez, the Commander in Chica of ,Chica Bands contacted me and asked me if I would like to try their headbands while I train for the Chicago Marathon. Yes!!! I would love to do that.

From the Chica Band site.

Finally! A Hair Band that won't slip!
Chica Bands™ is a no-nonsense, affordable necessity for active women and girls – no matter your sport, or hobby. We, at Chica Bands™, are runners… Strong, active women who want to help instill in you the same passion we feel for our workouts by removing the “hair hassle”. Like you, when we hit the open road, treadmill, track, field, or gym, we want nothing between ourselves and our workout... Especially our hair! So what’s a girl to do? Strap on a Chica Band™! An innovative hair band made with a special lining that keeps the band in place on your head – no matter how hard you work out. No slipping. No kidding!

I have alot of hair and up until this point I have never found a product that will stay in my hair and not slip. Well, I have some great news for you . Chica Bands- No kidding, no slipping!!!! I got the honor of trying 2 of their 1 inch bands, Flower Child and Baby Blue on Brown. First up for the testing was the 'Flower Child', this one got the 4 mile treadmill test. Holy mackerel that baby did not move ( my pony tail kept falling out), but the hair band stayed in place and kept the hair off my face. 2 thumbs up!!! Next test 'Baby Blue on Brown', this one got the outdoor 16 mile beating. First off, when I started the run with my friend she said 'Cute head band'. I thought so too. I will tell you the truth, the band was so comfortable that I actually forgot that it was even there. I am one that normally pulls my hair back and then throws on a running cap - so this was a new experience for me. 16 miles of running and sweating, with no movement from the Chica Band. It held my hair off my face the entire time.

I was also given the chance to try their 1 1/2 inch Orange Fandango; The larger ones are to be worn for fashion or causal purposes. How fun is that!!! Hair bands that can be used during sports activity's and then turned into an accessory for the evening.

I have since put an additional 17 miles on these bands, they are great!! No slipping of any kind, keeping my hair out of my face

One of the neat things about these bands is that they do not need to be washed every time. They will be soaking wet when you are done with your run , but that is ok. Just hang them on a door knob and they will dry before you know it ( with no smell either). How great is that, something that will dry on its own and be odor free. Now if you do feel as though you must wash them, just hand wash and hang up.

Head on over to Chica Bands and get some of your own, they have a fantastic deal going on right now.

**Disclaimer- I was not paid to try this product out, this is my own opinion**

Triple Tuesday Trivia

2010-08-24T14:28:00.000-04:00

Ok- So I have a few questions for you

1) What do you listen to when you run ? Music (playlist, radio), nothing , podcasts, ??

My answer to this depends. I have a playlist, which I like to run to BUT for some reason when I listen to the radio I end up with faster times. Not sure why.

2) When you run on a treadmill do you run at a constast speed or do you vary??

Me, I vary. I usually start at one speed (6.0) and then slowly increase the speed, usually up to 7.0

3) How long does it take for you to get warmed up? When does the run seem to become easier?

Me, it takes about 4 miles to warm up

Bonus question

For all the chocolate milk recovery drinkers out there- what is your favorite brand???

100 day challenge

2010-08-24T07:54:00.000-04:00

As I was talking about goals yesterday , I thought how appropriate was this. Courtney, over at 'Run Court Run' is having a 100 day challenge. It is more of a personal challenge- 'what would you like to accomplish within 100 days' (starting yesterday). So I figured- join up, we can all use extra motivation/ inspiration to achieve our goals. I will defiantly need the motivation after the marathon, to keep going. I know I mentioned these goals yesterday but this is exactly what I shared with Courtney and the others that are taking on the challenge.

Goals

1) Set my new PR at the Park2Park half marathon,

2) Finish Chicago Marathon in 4:48 (or faster),

3) Complete 1000 miles of running by Dec 31st,

4) Get others interested in running/ fitness/ health

Please keep me accountable for these.!!! Thanks Courtney for starting the challenge.

Have a wonderful day!!!!

4 more miles in- working towards my goal

2010-08-23T17:42:00.000-04:00

4 more done-
Why is it that your kids ignore you all day long until you want to do something? I told them, "Continue playing, I am going to jump on the treadmill and get my run out of the way" Ok was thier response. I was in the basement and was watching them through the window; and then they saw me. That was it- 1000 question session
"Mom when are you going to be done"
"Mom, why are you in daddys work shop?" (umm that is where the treadmill is)
"Mom we are outside"
"Mom can we have a snack when you are done"
etc.... etc... etc....
Now, of course, I am done- has anyone said a word NO

But I pushed through and finished 4 more miles in 38 min. I am not sure why but man running on the treadmill right now is so much harder than running outside. I have heard that you usually go slower outside than you do inside but I dont know, I am much faster outside than I am inside. Oh well, I continue to do both for variety and due to schedule issues.

Goals- I had a few goals this year
1) Complete the Chicago Marathon in a time of 4:48 (or less)
2) Run 1000 miles this year. I don't know I am at 569, that leave 431 . It is feasible, should be interesting to see if I can achieve it or how close I will get.
3) Get as many people interested in fitness/running as possible.

How about you- does anyone have any goals out there that they would like to share with me?

Until next time.

Start to a new week

2010-08-23T15:19:00.000-04:00

Well, just finished up week 23 of marathon training- 32 miles worth. That was the most that I have run in a long time. It is pretty funny when you are joking that this is 'low' week at 29 miles, with a 'long' run of 12 miles.

I was pretty sore after last weeks 16 miler, not sure if it was the humidity, not enough crabs the night before, not enough supplements during the run- who knows. Can only learn and continue on.

Took my girls to get their hair cut today- gearing up for school to start. Still have 2 weeks of summer vacation left!!!!

If you want the complete break down on my last week of training click here; it should be updated soon.

Enjoy your week; will try to update more soon.

Love love loving this weather

2010-08-17T21:29:00.001-04:00

Agan, I can not say how much a drop in temperature and humidty is incredible. Got back from a 8 mile run; despite dodging the dogs that were running around peoples yards and the people that were backing out of there driveways I still had a great run. I felt as though I was going slow, but to my surprise- NOPE- I held a 9 min pace for 8 miles. CRAZY. Looking back again, last year it took me 87 min, this year 72. WOW!!! It is making me wonder, how far/ fast could I go with more training/ time.

Was wondering , does taking all 4 of my kids to the grocery store count as cross training? I think I was sweating by the time I left the store.

The weather 'broke' for now

2010-08-16T20:57:00.000-04:00

Can I say how much I love that the temperature decided to drop and the humidty basically decided to go away. What a HUGE difference that can make. 4 miles of running - it was so comfortable. Finished in the my new personal PR- 4 miles 35:27!!! I know that I cant keep that pace over 26.2 miles but over 4 is amazing (at least for me).

Do you have a running journal? I love looking back over the year and seeing how my runs compared to last year (and years before) . This year avg 8:51 pace, last year 10:44 pace- wow, that is almost a 2 minute difference.

Enjoy the cool weather before the summer heat decides to make an appearance again!!

End of training week 22

2010-08-13T16:50:00.000-04:00

Holy cow, I cant believe that the Chicago marathon is less than 2 months away. My new blog just posted on the Chicago Marathon webpage, check it out.

Up and "running"

2010-08-05T20:10:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to be starting this blog. Let me tell you a little about myself. I am 35 years old and married to a wonderful man!!! We have been married for 11 years. As I have said before, if it wasnt for him, I would not be where I am today. I am also a mom to 4 kids, 2 girls and 2 boys- 9,7,4,2. Life can get pretty crazy around here.

Running- wow, I LOVE IT. I f you would of asked that question 5 years ago, I would of given you a totally different answer. Why? Because I was not a runner then. I took up running just 2 1/2 years ago (Feb 2008). At that point I had never ran a day ( well, unless you count chasing my kids). But here I am now, Aug 2010, having ran 2 5k , 3 half marathons, and 1 full marathon. Not only that- but this year I was chosen to be diary writer for the Chicago Marathon
http://www.chicagomarathon.com/CMS400Min/Chicago_Marathon/inspiration/index.aspx?id=13057
How crazy is that!!!
So, here I am training for my 2nd time around at the Chicago Marathon. In the mean time, I am going to run the Park 2 Park Half Marathon, in Holland MI . My as well, since I have to run 13 miles that day anyway.

I can also be found, on my fitness page via Facebook; join in the Challenge. Take on the Fitness!!!

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=262906941451&ref=ts

Run Mommy Run 4

Recipe #7

Recipe #6

Recipe #5

Dinner Recipe #4

Ingredients:

Dinner Recipe #3

Dinner Recipe #2

Dinner Recipe #1

THANKFUL THURSDAY

Fantastic Friday

Hip Pain Solved

I am here!!!

Few things Friday

What to do??

Three Things Thursday

12 miler complete!!!!

Where have I been?

Wow Wednesday!!!

Hit the pavement running this morning, on this BEAUTIFUL DAY!!! 8 miles!!! My sister in law is letting me borrow her running watch so now I can see my mile splits. So fun9:15, 9:39, 9:11, 9:16, 9:21, 8:58, 9:10 and 9:57 .

That last mile was silly, I stopped to walk for a few seconds and got lost in the beauty of the day. Total overall time 74:51 avg pace 9:21 Not going to argue at all. Enjoy this wonderful 'spring' day!!!

Super Sunday??? I will let you decide

Few things Friday

Run done

Motivation Monday part 2

Motivation Monday

Super Sunday

Spectacular Sloppy Saturday

Five things Friday

Short and Sweet Sunday

Super Sunny Sunday

Three Things Thursday

Two things Tuesday

Five Things Friday

7 mile Sunday

Few things Friday

Splendid Saturday

Three Things Thrusday

Six Mile Sunday

Three Things Thursday

Two Tuesday

Marathon Monday

Run and CSN review

InStyle Geo Shower Curtain in Brown - S-4009 BRWN

Milton Bradley Classic Scrabble Game - 4024S5

This I picked out because, ironically we own alot of games but not this one. This game is being given to all the kids for Christmas- what a great way for them to learn their letters and practice spelling words. I foresee lots and lots of family fun time.

The shipping was very timely. The items did arrive separately but that was no problem; very fast shipping. There is only a one negative issue-

Free Shipping

On Just About Everything!

Overall though, I am very happy with my purchase and would consider shopping at the CSN store again in the future. Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity.

Few things Friday

Wonderful Wednesday part 2

New Winner Wednesday and more

Supplement Giveaway Winners

3 things Thursday

Wonderful Wednesday

Supplement Review and Triple Giveaway

GU ENERGY GEL / CHOMPS

SPORTS BEANS

CLIF SHOT BLOKS

CHOCOLATE #9

PETER RABBIT ORGANIC FRUIT POUCHES

GIVEAWAY

MIA

Running Skirts Review

Fun Friday

Wonder Wednesday

Marvelous Monday part 2

Marvelous Mileage Monday

Several Things Sunday

Wonder Wednesday??

Nuun Giveaway Winners

Thoughtless Thursday

Wonder Wednesday

Two Things Tuesday

Mileage Monday

Gatorade

Nathan

Nuun

Fantastic Friday

Hit the pavement running this morning, on this BEAUTIFUL DAY!!! 8 miles!!! My sister in law is letting me borrow her running watch so now I can see my mile splits. So fun
9:15, 9:39, 9:11, 9:16, 9:21, 8:58, 9:10 and 9:57 .