One of the things I did this summer to mix things up was hit the trails for running. Let's just establish the fact that by trails I mean unpaved, mostly flat trails. Not hilly, challenging trails. Anyway, we have a great little trail system not too far from where we live and it really is something we don't use enough. Because I was working second shift, I switched by weigh-in time to Thursdays at mid-day and decided to hit the trails before going to weigh-in.
This particular trail system is nice because there are several little loops ranging from about .75 miles to 1.25 miles that you can link together to hit the mileage you want to hit. I found the setting extra relaxing (no music necessary - just enjoying nature!) and I found it easy to hit a happy pace. It was a great way to break away from the normal neighborhood loop.
Since going back to first shift, I've been scheming how to fit the trails into my routine regularly. On Friday I brought my running clothes to school, changed there and drove right to the trails from there. I was tired, but I had an awesome run. I broke 36 minutes for 3 miles (I did 4:1 run/walk intervals), which is a time I haven't seen in awhile. As a side note, I did the same intervals today on my neighborhood run and I hit 34:08. Wahoo!
I highly suggest seeing if there are any running or biking trails in your area (and if you're in New England, comment and let me know where they are so I can check them out!). It's a great way to break up the monotony and it just might be the boost you need to have an awesome run!
Showing posts with label Running. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Running. Show all posts
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Three Things Thursday
1. Summer has hit full force here in NH. I feel like we just skipped spring and ran straight into summer! It was a glorious weekend for running and biking and that's just what I did. I cycled 13.6 miles on Saturday, ran 3.1 miles on Sunday, cycled 19.6 miles on Monday, and ran another 3.1 miles yesterday. And through my travels over the weekend, I scored a new bike helmet and cyclying shirt. I'll share pictures soon, I promise!
2. Happy National Running Day! Unfortunately I will not be out running today. After four straight days of exercising and the weather being on the uncomfortable side, I'm taking today off. Are you getting out there for a run? Put in an extra mile for me!
3. Did you enter my Allied Medal Display giveaway yet? Because you should. Your odds are pretty good so far!
Happy Thursday!
2. Happy National Running Day! Unfortunately I will not be out running today. After four straight days of exercising and the weather being on the uncomfortable side, I'm taking today off. Are you getting out there for a run? Put in an extra mile for me!
3. Did you enter my Allied Medal Display giveaway yet? Because you should. Your odds are pretty good so far!
Happy Thursday!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Three Things Thursday
1. I guess I shouldn't avoid the obvious - Happy St. Patrick's Day! My husband, Patrick, keeps saying that it's his holiday. I usually don't get too festive, but I did put green food coloring in his milk and I donned a cute green dress in honor of the warmer weather.
2. Speaking of the warmer weather, I got out for a three mile jaunt this morning. I am so much more motivated when the sun is shining. Mostly because I know that it may not last long living in Maine so I try to take advantage of it while it's here. All the snow has melted on the bike path so all my usual running route are now open. And I saw 5 deer run across the path this morning. It's nice to not only see other people out exercising, but also to see the wildlife return to their routines.
3. We have booked our summer vacation! It reminds me that there is a light at the end of the tunnel! Any guesses where we're going? (Hint: It's in the U.S.) I will be soliciting recommendations for things to do in a future post. In the meantime, there may be a prize in store if someone guesses correctly.
2. Speaking of the warmer weather, I got out for a three mile jaunt this morning. I am so much more motivated when the sun is shining. Mostly because I know that it may not last long living in Maine so I try to take advantage of it while it's here. All the snow has melted on the bike path so all my usual running route are now open. And I saw 5 deer run across the path this morning. It's nice to not only see other people out exercising, but also to see the wildlife return to their routines.
3. We have booked our summer vacation! It reminds me that there is a light at the end of the tunnel! Any guesses where we're going? (Hint: It's in the U.S.) I will be soliciting recommendations for things to do in a future post. In the meantime, there may be a prize in store if someone guesses correctly.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Back Into the Swing of Things
I have returned to Maine for the final push before graduation. I drove up on Friday and have been spending the weekend getting settled back in and catching up with Patrick. Since I haven't heard anything from the doctor's office regarding my issue, I assume that there is nothing wrong with me and I'm easing back into exercising after a week off.
Patrick and I hit the gym yesterday, but it didn't go so well. We usually run on the track, but yesterday there were youth basketball games going on on the basketball courts below. I hate to be a sourpuss, but we pay a lot of money for memberships there and the fact that the YMCA comes to play their championships at our gym instead of at the YMCA down the road really ticks me off. I mean, they're not paying to be there and they take over the court so Patrick can't shoot hoops. Aggravating. Anyway, the loud whistles, cheering, and buzzers were giving me a headache and I wasn't feeling so well so I called it quits after 1.3 miles. We tried to cycle for a bit, but that didn't go so great either.
This morning I knew I wanted to try and redeem myself and get out for a longer run outside. I woke up to a fairly mild Maine morning. It was about 41* when I headed out around 1pm. It was cloudy, but nice. And being outside is so much better than that dang track. The bike path is now entirely clear (yay for melting snow!!!). I got three miles done, without walking, in 36:24 minutes. That's a 12:06 min/mile. I feel like my running is starting to return to normal and I felt pretty comfortable out there.
So that's what I spent my weekend doing. Well that and unpacking and replacing Patrick's junk food with healthy food. Now I'm prepping myself for the fact that I have to go into school tomorrow and finish my thesis. I'm defending on April 15th and it's coming fast! How was everyone's weekend?
Patrick and I hit the gym yesterday, but it didn't go so well. We usually run on the track, but yesterday there were youth basketball games going on on the basketball courts below. I hate to be a sourpuss, but we pay a lot of money for memberships there and the fact that the YMCA comes to play their championships at our gym instead of at the YMCA down the road really ticks me off. I mean, they're not paying to be there and they take over the court so Patrick can't shoot hoops. Aggravating. Anyway, the loud whistles, cheering, and buzzers were giving me a headache and I wasn't feeling so well so I called it quits after 1.3 miles. We tried to cycle for a bit, but that didn't go so great either.
This morning I knew I wanted to try and redeem myself and get out for a longer run outside. I woke up to a fairly mild Maine morning. It was about 41* when I headed out around 1pm. It was cloudy, but nice. And being outside is so much better than that dang track. The bike path is now entirely clear (yay for melting snow!!!). I got three miles done, without walking, in 36:24 minutes. That's a 12:06 min/mile. I feel like my running is starting to return to normal and I felt pretty comfortable out there.
So that's what I spent my weekend doing. Well that and unpacking and replacing Patrick's junk food with healthy food. Now I'm prepping myself for the fact that I have to go into school tomorrow and finish my thesis. I'm defending on April 15th and it's coming fast! How was everyone's weekend?
Friday, March 4, 2011
Recruitment
One of the best things about being home for spring break is catching up with friends. I got to go out with my best bud, we'll call her BLT (those are her initials for real!), on Saturday. We hit up Target and while I was checking out the workout apparel, we got to talking about weight loss. BLT started losing weight last spring. She was the maid of honor in my wedding and I think she starting losing for my wedding. Here we are looking fabulous:
Anyway, she's stuck with it and she's looking great. I asked her how much she's lost so far. Her reply: about 50 pounds. 50 pounds! I told her that she looked great. She admitted that she was happy about it, but that she'd hit a plateau and has been stuck for a number of weeks. Then she dropped the bomb. She wanted to start running to mix it up.
I had to stop myself from trying to impart every piece of advice I have. I chose the some tips to help her get started and let her know that I was really excited for her. I suppose that I had a bit of an ulterior motive - I've never really had a running buddy. Patrick is over six feet tall and can run faster than me without trying, my dad and brother have both gotten speedier in the last year, and my mom and I only get to run together occasionally. Maybe I'm putting the horse before the cart here, but we are both built similarly and I think if she sticks with it we could have very similar paces. She did say that she wants to try to do a 5K this summer.
I gave her a call at the beginning of the week and we decided to head out together for a run on Tuesday. It was on the cool side, but the sun was shining. We headed out to try a loop in her neighborhood. We went 2.60 miles in a little over 35 minutes. We did a combination of running and walking and we went by how she was feeling. Our pace was about 13:45 minutes per mile. I was so impressed. She said that she does a lot of walking at the gym and I think that really helped her transition to running. Her biggest issue was her breathing. I didn't really have any advice other than to try and find a pattern that's comfortable and to keep trying to run. Anyone have any tips on breathing while running?
I had so much fun running with her. I hope that BLT knows that I really meant it when I said I was proud of her and that she did an amazing job. I think we might try to get in another run in this weekend before she has to go back to school. Any favorite tips that you wish you knew when you started running?
I had to stop myself from trying to impart every piece of advice I have. I chose the some tips to help her get started and let her know that I was really excited for her. I suppose that I had a bit of an ulterior motive - I've never really had a running buddy. Patrick is over six feet tall and can run faster than me without trying, my dad and brother have both gotten speedier in the last year, and my mom and I only get to run together occasionally. Maybe I'm putting the horse before the cart here, but we are both built similarly and I think if she sticks with it we could have very similar paces. She did say that she wants to try to do a 5K this summer.
I gave her a call at the beginning of the week and we decided to head out together for a run on Tuesday. It was on the cool side, but the sun was shining. We headed out to try a loop in her neighborhood. We went 2.60 miles in a little over 35 minutes. We did a combination of running and walking and we went by how she was feeling. Our pace was about 13:45 minutes per mile. I was so impressed. She said that she does a lot of walking at the gym and I think that really helped her transition to running. Her biggest issue was her breathing. I didn't really have any advice other than to try and find a pattern that's comfortable and to keep trying to run. Anyone have any tips on breathing while running?
I had so much fun running with her. I hope that BLT knows that I really meant it when I said I was proud of her and that she did an amazing job. I think we might try to get in another run in this weekend before she has to go back to school. Any favorite tips that you wish you knew when you started running?
Friday, February 25, 2011
Channeling Anger
It's been a trying week. I've been trying to stay positive, but my frustration with my thesis advisers has only been growing into anger. I don't like being angry. It's not healthy and it stresses me out (never mind that I can't lose weight when I'm stressed). Long story short here: we should be meeting weekly about my thesis project and we've only met twice in seven weeks. It's getting to the point that if the project isn't completed to the level I want it to be, it's not my fault, but it's killing me because I'm a bit of a perfectionist.
Anyway, I tried to channel that frustration into my run yesterday. Patrick and I went to the track at the gym and I put my iPod and just tried to zone out and not think about it. The run was comfortable (so nice to be back to running regularly!) and I got 3.1 miles in. My average pace per mile is finally starting to get back to normal, which is a definite plus. Usually when I'm frustrated, getting a run in really helps me feel better. But it didn't this time.
Guess I'll need to run some more! I did have another meeting with one of my advisers yesterday afternoon. We got some things done, but almost figured out that my entire project is screwed. Luckily, my data is fine and I'm feeling much better after a near meltdown in my professor's office. Thank goodness today I'm on my way to NH for spring break. Hoping for some warmer temps so I can get some outside runs in. Happy weekend everyone!
Anyway, I tried to channel that frustration into my run yesterday. Patrick and I went to the track at the gym and I put my iPod and just tried to zone out and not think about it. The run was comfortable (so nice to be back to running regularly!) and I got 3.1 miles in. My average pace per mile is finally starting to get back to normal, which is a definite plus. Usually when I'm frustrated, getting a run in really helps me feel better. But it didn't this time.
Guess I'll need to run some more! I did have another meeting with one of my advisers yesterday afternoon. We got some things done, but almost figured out that my entire project is screwed. Luckily, my data is fine and I'm feeling much better after a near meltdown in my professor's office. Thank goodness today I'm on my way to NH for spring break. Hoping for some warmer temps so I can get some outside runs in. Happy weekend everyone!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Wow. What a difference about 30 degrees can make! Let's compare today's run to Tuesday's run, shall we:
Today Tuesday
Miles Ran: 3.05 - 3.03
Time Ran: 37:37 - 38:37
Average Pace: 12:20 - 12:44
Temperature at the end of run: 44* - 12*
The fresh air was fabulous today! It was near ideal running weather and it seemed that everyone had the same idea that I did - get out there and enjoy it while it lasts! I was having a hard time motivating myself to get out the door this afternoon, but I knew that it's probably going to get cold again soon so I should soak this up. Besides, I am so sick of the track at the rec center. I get so bored that I stop and walk way more than I want to. When I run outside, I run all three miles without walking.
In the end, it was worth it. When I was done, I felt awesome, just like I always do. I mean, look how happy I am post-workout:
Is it warming up near you? It's nice to know there's light at the end of this tunnel!
Today Tuesday
Miles Ran: 3.05 - 3.03
Time Ran: 37:37 - 38:37
Average Pace: 12:20 - 12:44
Temperature at the end of run: 44* - 12*
The fresh air was fabulous today! It was near ideal running weather and it seemed that everyone had the same idea that I did - get out there and enjoy it while it lasts! I was having a hard time motivating myself to get out the door this afternoon, but I knew that it's probably going to get cold again soon so I should soak this up. Besides, I am so sick of the track at the rec center. I get so bored that I stop and walk way more than I want to. When I run outside, I run all three miles without walking.
In the end, it was worth it. When I was done, I felt awesome, just like I always do. I mean, look how happy I am post-workout:
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Total AWESOMENESS!
I teach a lab course on Tuesdays that gets out at 5pm. Patrick had to got to work at 5pm. We only have one car. So what's a girl to do? Run home! I packed strategically so I could leave my things in my office and luckily I got out of lab early. It was tempting to call Patrick to pick me up, but I stuck to my plan. I got changed and headed out.
The most gratifying moment of the run came about 2 miles in. I stopped to walk for about 30 seconds to try and stretch my legs out. At this point I was passing through a parking lot to get back to the main road. As I was walking I heard a guy start yelling, "Hey!" I ignored him the first time and then turned around the second time because I thought he might be talking to me. Turns out, he was. He asked me if I needed a ride. I told him I was all set and that I was out for a run. The look of disbelief was priceless and he said, "You're crazy! It's f@%$ing cold out here." I waved and started running again with a big grin on my face.
And it was cold! Brrr. When I got back it was 12* out. And with the sun going down, there wasn't much to warm me up. It was a cold start, but once I got warmed up and moving I was feeling much better. This is the first run I've done outside since the end of December. We had warm enough temps to melt the snow in the breakdown lanes of the roads. The sidewalks are still icy, but there was enough room to run on the side of the road safely. When I got home and warmed up, my legs looked like this:
They were all red and blotchy and itchy (the red in the bottom right corner is the most accurate). If I was out there any longer I think I might have gotten frostbite. The ironic part is that my legs were never cold, only my face and hands. I guess Tricia needs to pick me as the winner of her GoLite winter gear giveaway. That or I need to get some more layers!
The most gratifying moment of the run came about 2 miles in. I stopped to walk for about 30 seconds to try and stretch my legs out. At this point I was passing through a parking lot to get back to the main road. As I was walking I heard a guy start yelling, "Hey!" I ignored him the first time and then turned around the second time because I thought he might be talking to me. Turns out, he was. He asked me if I needed a ride. I told him I was all set and that I was out for a run. The look of disbelief was priceless and he said, "You're crazy! It's f@%$ing cold out here." I waved and started running again with a big grin on my face.
And it was cold! Brrr. When I got back it was 12* out. And with the sun going down, there wasn't much to warm me up. It was a cold start, but once I got warmed up and moving I was feeling much better. This is the first run I've done outside since the end of December. We had warm enough temps to melt the snow in the breakdown lanes of the roads. The sidewalks are still icy, but there was enough room to run on the side of the road safely. When I got home and warmed up, my legs looked like this:
Monday, January 17, 2011
Weekend Things
Patrick and I did a track workout again on Sunday. We warmed up for .5 miles and then did .1 walk/ .1 run (fast) ten times with a .5 mile cool down. Total miles: 3.0 Total Time: 38ish minutes. Awesome, considering we walked half of the miles. The legs felt really good and we were able to hold strong on the run laps. We were trying to push it and go fast. I really want to work on my 5K time, so I know I need to work on speed. Patrick is just trying to work on getting back to running regularly and I may have convinced him to run a 5K with me in April!
I also tested out my new running skirt yesterday. I am in love! This thing is quite possibly the most comfortable (and the cutest!) piece of running gear I own. My only complaint is that I ordered the size based on my pant size and it seems a little big. And since I'm in the process of losing weight, I might have to buy another one or else mine will be falling down. But I love it! I can't say that I will be running out and buying any at full price, but I will keep my eye on the sale page (or I will gladly accept them as gifts)! You can find Running Skirts HERE.
One of my goals for 2011 was to read 25 books this year. For those who are interested, I'm going to share the books here. I stayed up until 1:30 in the morning finishing this book (oops!) on Saturday. I should mention that I am someone that can sit down and read for hours on end if the book is good. I really love to read.
My first book of 2011 was Atonement. I really enjoyed the book and plan on watching the movie soon, although I have heard it's not nearly as good as the book. I have a hard time summarizing the book without giving it away, so I don't want to say too much, but I may have cried a little at the end. Any recommendations for my next read?
Stay tuned this week! I have at least 2, if not 3 giveaways coming up!
I also tested out my new running skirt yesterday. I am in love! This thing is quite possibly the most comfortable (and the cutest!) piece of running gear I own. My only complaint is that I ordered the size based on my pant size and it seems a little big. And since I'm in the process of losing weight, I might have to buy another one or else mine will be falling down. But I love it! I can't say that I will be running out and buying any at full price, but I will keep my eye on the sale page (or I will gladly accept them as gifts)! You can find Running Skirts HERE.
One of my goals for 2011 was to read 25 books this year. For those who are interested, I'm going to share the books here. I stayed up until 1:30 in the morning finishing this book (oops!) on Saturday. I should mention that I am someone that can sit down and read for hours on end if the book is good. I really love to read.
My first book of 2011 was Atonement. I really enjoyed the book and plan on watching the movie soon, although I have heard it's not nearly as good as the book. I have a hard time summarizing the book without giving it away, so I don't want to say too much, but I may have cried a little at the end. Any recommendations for my next read?
Stay tuned this week! I have at least 2, if not 3 giveaways coming up!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Three Things Thursday
1. I'm taking the plunge. I signed up for Tall Mom's 1000+++ Mile Club. (If you want to join, you can signup HERE.) Technically the challenge is to walk, run, or swim 1000 miles in 2011. Technically cycling doesn't count. But because much of my training involves cycling, I'm making it my personal goal to move 1000 miles in 2010. I'm not sure I could get there with running and walking alone. Maybe that will be my goal for next year!
2. I took another plunge and bought a running skirt! Running Skirts is having a sale on their items already on sale. So it was only $20.11! I've been wanting on for awhile, but felt that the $58 price tag is a bit steep. The best part is that it shipped yesterday and should be waiting for me in Maine when I return. Unfortunately it's a little cold in Maine to be running in a skirt. I'm thinking I'll just have to debut it at the gym and suffer the funny looks I'm going to get.
3. I have a 3 mile run scheduled for today because I missed out yesterday. I thought I was coming down with a cold and wasn't feeling well, so I thought it best to rest. I also had some sore of irritation on my face that was making me really itchy (I think it's my new face wash). So I took the day off. But I'm feeling much better today and I need to get in my fourth workout for the week. I'm going to do the same loop that I did last Friday to see if I can do the loop faster. And tomorrow I weigh in, so I'm hoping it pays off!
Happy Thursday!
2. I took another plunge and bought a running skirt! Running Skirts is having a sale on their items already on sale. So it was only $20.11! I've been wanting on for awhile, but felt that the $58 price tag is a bit steep. The best part is that it shipped yesterday and should be waiting for me in Maine when I return. Unfortunately it's a little cold in Maine to be running in a skirt. I'm thinking I'll just have to debut it at the gym and suffer the funny looks I'm going to get.
Happy Thursday!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
If Only Everyday...
...was as good as yesterday. Eating wise I did really well. I got in all my servings of dairy, water, lean protein, and fruits and veggies (a tough one for me!). To top it off, when I got home from work I managed to motivate myself to run 2.5 miles. I almost skipped it after walking the mile home from work, but I got out there. And you know what? It felt awesome. My mile splits were faster than my previous run and I'm starting to get back in the running groove. Sure it was cold and a bit windy, but my legs felt good and I was happy to be out running and getting some fresh air!
I'm trying to stay focused so that today can be just as good! Tonight is the season premiere of The Biggest Loser - one of my guilty pleasures. I'd really like to see a female win this season. I'm thinking it's time! Is anyone else watching?
I'm trying to stay focused so that today can be just as good! Tonight is the season premiere of The Biggest Loser - one of my guilty pleasures. I'd really like to see a female win this season. I'm thinking it's time! Is anyone else watching?
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Ouch!
Oh, where to begin? Well, by midday I was out of work early because the fire alarm get going off endlessly. It was hard to focus and get work done with that going on in the background, even while wearing earplugs. So my boss told me to go home. Sweet! I needed to return my grandfather's car to him because I borrowed it over the weekend so I could stay with my grandmother while he was in the hospital (he's home and doing fine, nothing too major). I got the idea that I would drive the car to his house and then run home to get my exercise in. I was really excited to go running because the sun is out today and it's not horribly cold and I was out of work early.
So I went home and bundled up for my run. I put on my winter running socks (ominous sign number one) and headed back downstairs (ominous sign number two). And just near the bottom, as I was bouncing down the stairs in excitement (ominous sign number three), my feet went out from under me and I landed hard on the stairs. Ouch! I bruised my hand and my hip for sure. I'm doing okay, but dang that hurt! I took some ibuprofen and iced it for a bit. Long story short, no run for me today. Hopefully I can get out tomorrow. Fingers crossed!
So I went home and bundled up for my run. I put on my winter running socks (ominous sign number one) and headed back downstairs (ominous sign number two). And just near the bottom, as I was bouncing down the stairs in excitement (ominous sign number three), my feet went out from under me and I landed hard on the stairs. Ouch! I bruised my hand and my hip for sure. I'm doing okay, but dang that hurt! I took some ibuprofen and iced it for a bit. Long story short, no run for me today. Hopefully I can get out tomorrow. Fingers crossed!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Winter Running
Many have you have been on the hunt for winter running tips and I have been selfishly been witholding comments on the topic because I was preparing a guest post on the topic. Leslie from And Her Little Dog Too has been away on a cruise (jealous!) and was looking for guest posters. How perfect!
You can check out my guest post on running in the winter HERE.
Hope some of you find this helpful!
You can check out my guest post on running in the winter HERE.
Hope some of you find this helpful!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Stress Running
As opposed to stress eating. I will be the first to admit that I am a victim of stress eating. And I think we can all agree that it's not really a healthy habit. I will also admit that I am a fan of stress running. When I get stressed or frustrated, running tends to be a great outlet. And in fact, these runs are some of my best.
Today was one of those runs. I just have a lot going on with school, my thesis, and preparing for a conference in Kansas City next week. It's been pretty rainy the past couple days, so I set out around noon when it was only drizzling. I was also trying to beat some traffic because it's homecoming weekend here. Well, wouldn't you know, at the furthest point from home the rain and the wind started to pick up. Let me tell you that it was certainly some good motivation not to stop and walk. By the time I made it home, I was soaked and cold. The hot shower was a nice post-run treat.
Luckily the Garmin is water resistant and my iPod was safely tucked under several layers of clothing. The last couple of runs I've gone iPod-less, so it was nice to have the music back. This might sound weird, but I actually ran to classical music today. It actually seemed to fit with the weather. Do you ever listen to "non-traditional" running music?
Tomorrow I hope the sun return so I can get out for a bike ride. I also have lots of grading and homework to get done. What's everyone else up to?
Today was one of those runs. I just have a lot going on with school, my thesis, and preparing for a conference in Kansas City next week. It's been pretty rainy the past couple days, so I set out around noon when it was only drizzling. I was also trying to beat some traffic because it's homecoming weekend here. Well, wouldn't you know, at the furthest point from home the rain and the wind started to pick up. Let me tell you that it was certainly some good motivation not to stop and walk. By the time I made it home, I was soaked and cold. The hot shower was a nice post-run treat.
Luckily the Garmin is water resistant and my iPod was safely tucked under several layers of clothing. The last couple of runs I've gone iPod-less, so it was nice to have the music back. This might sound weird, but I actually ran to classical music today. It actually seemed to fit with the weather. Do you ever listen to "non-traditional" running music?
Tomorrow I hope the sun return so I can get out for a bike ride. I also have lots of grading and homework to get done. What's everyone else up to?
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
It's Amazing What You Can Do
Sometimes I amaze myself and find that I'm smarter than I think I am. Case-in-point: I got a 90 on the physical chemistry exam (yes, it's as bad as it sounds) that I was stressing about. To study I read over my notes, looked at the problem sets, and read the book. We had a 5 hour break between class and the exam and everyone was cramming. Except for me. I went home, exercised, and then made dinner. I figured if I didn't know it by then, I wasn't going to learn it in five hours.
I think this idea translates well to running (or triathlons, or whatever is challenging for you). Sometimes we just don't know what we can do until we try. And if you do try, you'll be surprised at what you can do. Another case-in-point: I ran on Sunday so I decided to go for a walk on Monday. As I headed out the door, I thought, why not run as much of it as you can and then you can walk? And you know what? I ran 2.2 miles of the 2.5 mile loop. Sweet.
I think we hang ourselves up on the fact that we can't do something, when in reality, we are smarter, faster, stronger than we think we are. All you've got to do is give it an honest shot. What are you doing to challenge yourself? Have you ever proved yourself wrong?
I think this idea translates well to running (or triathlons, or whatever is challenging for you). Sometimes we just don't know what we can do until we try. And if you do try, you'll be surprised at what you can do. Another case-in-point: I ran on Sunday so I decided to go for a walk on Monday. As I headed out the door, I thought, why not run as much of it as you can and then you can walk? And you know what? I ran 2.2 miles of the 2.5 mile loop. Sweet.
I think we hang ourselves up on the fact that we can't do something, when in reality, we are smarter, faster, stronger than we think we are. All you've got to do is give it an honest shot. What are you doing to challenge yourself? Have you ever proved yourself wrong?
Monday, October 4, 2010
Weekly Check In
Want free stuff? Only a few more days to enter my giveaway!
I've seen a lot of other bloggers do this I think I need to start doing this for some personal accountability. If this kind of stuff bores you to death, I understand and won't be offended if you skip it. But I exercised 4 times last week and I am wicked excited because I think I only exercised twice as many times in the entire month of September. I'm not techincally training for anything right now, but I've been thinking about doing our local Thanksgiving race.
I did this with Patrick and we just did the ride to enjoy ourselves.
First run in about a week. I had to walk a bit, but I felt pretty good. You can read more about it HERE.
Beautiful day, beautiful ride. You can see pictures from my ride HERE.
The legs felt great on this one. Ran the whole thing! You can read more about it HERE.
How did everyone's workouts go this week?
I've seen a lot of other bloggers do this I think I need to start doing this for some personal accountability. If this kind of stuff bores you to death, I understand and won't be offended if you skip it. But I exercised 4 times last week and I am wicked excited because I think I only exercised twice as many times in the entire month of September. I'm not techincally training for anything right now, but I've been thinking about doing our local Thanksgiving race.
Monday
Nothing - I was probably just being lazyTuesday
Normal Rest Day Wednesday
5.99 mile bike - 27:47 min - 12.9 mphI did this with Patrick and we just did the ride to enjoy ourselves.
Thursday
3.12 mile run - 40:00 min - 12:49 min/miFirst run in about a week. I had to walk a bit, but I felt pretty good. You can read more about it HERE.
Friday
Rest Saturday
10.31 mile bike - 43:39 min - 14.2 mphBeautiful day, beautiful ride. You can see pictures from my ride HERE.
Sunday
3.00 mile run - 37:39 min - 12:32 min/miThe legs felt great on this one. Ran the whole thing! You can read more about it HERE.
How did everyone's workouts go this week?
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Another Weekend Down
Another weekend down! And it was actually a productive weekend. Here's a little recap:
Yesterday afternoon we went to a wedding! I really love weddings. The wedding was by a lake (pretty, but a little cool and windy) and the reception was in a church basement. Here's the happy couple:
Here's Patrick and I looking fabulous:
And here are the awesome favors I made for them as a gift (need some? I think I may need to start a business):
What did you do this weekend?
Friday
I actually spent some time analyzing data for my thesis. This is super important and really should be the focus of all my attention, but it has been really hard to get my thesis advisor to give me stuff to do.Saturday
I woke up earlier then Patrick and I headed out for a 10 mile bike ride while he continued to sleep. It was sunny and cool (thank goodness the heavy rain had let up!). The legs felt good and I averaged a strong pace (~15 mph). Here are some pictures from my ride:
Yesterday afternoon we went to a wedding! I really love weddings. The wedding was by a lake (pretty, but a little cool and windy) and the reception was in a church basement. Here's the happy couple:
Today
This morning I got out for a three mile run. And I ran the WHOLE THING!!! Yay! This really hasn't happened in quite some time. The time wasn't stellar, but who cares? I love this time of year because it is perfect running weather. This afternoon I've gotten my homework and lab reports graded so I am ready for the week ahead.Thursday, September 30, 2010
Three Things Thursday
Have you entered my Sof Sole giveaway yet? Check it out HERE.
1. I had my first two exams of the semester yesterday and today I just feel so relieved. There was so much stress building up that I'm just glad they're over. The second exam was in my physical chemistry class (it is just as disgusting as it sounds). It went a lot better than I expected, but I already can't wait for this class to be over! Have you ever had a similar experience? How did you get through it?
2. Fall is here! I always feel like it sneaks up on me. The leaves are turning and the scenery gets more and more beautiful by the day. And in honor of tomorrow being the first day of October, I busted out these dish towels I got at Target last week:
Again, I don't know why this is sideways! Anyone have any solutions???
Super cute! Halloween will be here soon!
3. And the best news of the day is that I went for a 3 mile run this evening. It was tough because I've been out of the game for a bit, but it felt awesome. I walked about a half mile total throughout the run, which I thought was alright considering I've only been running once a week. The weather was warm and overcast, but there was a really nice breeze to keep me cool. And when I got home, my pizza dough was ready to be stretched, dressed, and put in the oven. Yum! And I enjoyed this view while I ate:
Patrick brought them home for me last Sunday. I'm blessed with such a wonderful husband!
Happy Thursday! The weekend will soon be upon us!
1. I had my first two exams of the semester yesterday and today I just feel so relieved. There was so much stress building up that I'm just glad they're over. The second exam was in my physical chemistry class (it is just as disgusting as it sounds). It went a lot better than I expected, but I already can't wait for this class to be over! Have you ever had a similar experience? How did you get through it?
2. Fall is here! I always feel like it sneaks up on me. The leaves are turning and the scenery gets more and more beautiful by the day. And in honor of tomorrow being the first day of October, I busted out these dish towels I got at Target last week:
Again, I don't know why this is sideways! Anyone have any solutions???
Super cute! Halloween will be here soon!
3. And the best news of the day is that I went for a 3 mile run this evening. It was tough because I've been out of the game for a bit, but it felt awesome. I walked about a half mile total throughout the run, which I thought was alright considering I've only been running once a week. The weather was warm and overcast, but there was a really nice breeze to keep me cool. And when I got home, my pizza dough was ready to be stretched, dressed, and put in the oven. Yum! And I enjoyed this view while I ate:
Happy Thursday! The weekend will soon be upon us!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Sniffles & Improvements
So after my last post (sorry for such a downer of a post), I got out and had a great run. I got 3 miles done and I was able to do sub-12 minute miles. Considering I've been a huge running slump, this is a small victory for me. The cooler weather, which is perfect for running, has hit here in Maine. I plan on taking full advantage of the cooler weather and the views of the beautiful foliage.
Hehe. Too cute. The flowers we bought for the apartment warming party are still kicking around, so that's helping to cheer me up too.
That and the sun finally came back out after several gloomy days. And we even had a rainbow appear last week:
So in the end, I suppose things are looking up. How's everyone's week going?
However, I think I'm fighting a bit of a cold now. Sore throat and sniffles. I had planned on another run today, but I opted to sleep in and try to get better quick! I'm thinking the large amount of stress I've been under combined with my lack of exercise and healthy eating has suppressed my immune system. Patrick has been really trying to help me feel better (and that's saying something because I am a miserable person when I'm sick). This morning, he made me an english muffin and presented it to this way:
Hehe. Too cute. The flowers we bought for the apartment warming party are still kicking around, so that's helping to cheer me up too.
That and the sun finally came back out after several gloomy days. And we even had a rainbow appear last week:
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Three Things Thursday
1. Shocker of all shockers: I just got back from a run! It feels really nice to be back to running. Although as a result of taking so much time off, I have to work on building up a base again. It's really tempting to think that I can just go run three miles, but that's probably not the best option right now. Baby steps! I am really proud of myself for getting my workouts done in the AM to beat the heat. I also prefer morning workouts because I feel pretty burnt out when I get home and the last thing I want to do is exercise.
2. Patrick and I are officially moved in to our very own apartment. While we lived together last year, this is the first time we are living by ourselves. It's nice for a change. I promise some pictures with in the next week or so. It's really tiny, so don't get your hopes up too much! :-)
3. My semester has officially started as well. I'm not really sure how I feel about it. I think I'm just kind of over it. I do need to write a thesis and that's making me nervous. Mostly because right now I'm just not interested in doing it. That may stem from the fact that I have no idea what my thesis is going to be about. I know it will get done, I just need to find some direction and motivation.
2. Patrick and I are officially moved in to our very own apartment. While we lived together last year, this is the first time we are living by ourselves. It's nice for a change. I promise some pictures with in the next week or so. It's really tiny, so don't get your hopes up too much! :-)
3. My semester has officially started as well. I'm not really sure how I feel about it. I think I'm just kind of over it. I do need to write a thesis and that's making me nervous. Mostly because right now I'm just not interested in doing it. That may stem from the fact that I have no idea what my thesis is going to be about. I know it will get done, I just need to find some direction and motivation.
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