In the end, it was sudden

"There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. That will be the beginning." — Louis L'Amour

My 2010 New Year's Resolution is complete. I ran 3 miles today. This makes 600 miles I have run this year.

Here are the numbers:
1 - Shortest run
2 - Pairs of sneakers
3 - Members of my immediate family who put up with this crap
4 - Number of races I ran
5 - Different people I ran with
6 - Number of states I ran in
7 - Farthest run
12 - Lbs I lost
29 - Days I flat-out skipped
30 - Days I rested to avoid injury (physical and mental)
44 - Bad Runs
106 - Good Runs
365 - Days I thought about running
600 - miles I ran this year.

I'm not sure I'd recommend attempting something so regimented again, but I still love running.

Dig deep, the end is near

I have never taken any exercise except sleeping and resting.
  - Mark Twain


I am desperate for motivational quotes, but I keep finding the opposite. But I don't want to disappoint my 4 loyal readers (Yes! I mean you: Jeff, Gaela, Pat, Jen), so I ran 5 miles today. It wasn't the prettiest route, but I didn't want to get hit by a car this close to the end, so I ran thru and around town. I felt pretty good!
Did you know? Jay and Silent Bob have a podcast. Its not going to increase your IQ, but it was very entertaining for the hour I was out.

Happiness

Happiness is not achieved by the conscious pursuit of happiness; it is generally the by-product of other activities.
  - Aldous Huxley


I ran 3 miles today. I can't wait to be done with running outside in the cold!

Down to brass tacks

Its so close I can almost taste it. Almost to the end. I ran 3 miles today on the treadmill. I'm sure I'm not going to break 600 miles, but I can't do more than 3 on the treadmill. Unless I decide to do doubles in the next few days... Hmm... How badly do I want it?

If you can't stand the cold

Then run in the gym. I ran 2 miles today.

1 for Boxing Day

I ran 1 mile today before the snow came.

Merry Christmas!

To celebrate, I ran 3 miles outside today. It was peaceful, mostly b/c I escaped from the family at my house!

Only a few days left

I ran 4 miles outside today. It was chilly and slippery, but it was nice to get out and get the workout done before the craziness starts.

Preparing for the worst

I ran 3 miles tonight to mentally prepare for the invasion of my family. It was pretty good.

Winter Wonderland

I ran 1.5 miles today at lunch, just before it started to snow. Now I have to think about running in the slush for the next 9 days.

Solstice

Today is the Winter Solstice. My 2nd favorite day of the year that marks the beginning of the end of winter. I ran 2 miles today and did several Sun Salutations to prepare for seeing the sun again in the next few months.

Get going, Girl!

I ran 3 miles today at the gym. I am in the final throes of this resolution, so the hell with my husband and kids, I need to be running. I can't be bothered to do dinner and math homework!

A timid person is frightened before a danger, a coward during the time, and a courageous person afterward.
  - Jean Paul Richter

Seriously sore

I ran 1 mile today.

But combined with yesterdays workout and the fact that I played an hour of tennis today, I'm sore everywhere. I guess running a mile everyday isn't the workout I wish it was...

Lazy Saturday repenting

I did 3 miles today to try to work off some of the wine, gumbo, and cookies I ate last night. I'm not sure I made a caloric dent, but I had a good run.

This time with gusto... I mean Gumbo!

I did 1 mile on the treadmill before heading to a friend's Gumbo party.  I'm not sure I exercised enough to warrant 2 servings, but hey, its just once a year!

Stretch it a little longer

For kicks (ha!), I ran 2 miles today.

Less than 2 weeks

Which means I have a min of 15 more miles to run. Which is good, b/c its cold and I'm tired.
I ran 1 mile today.

counting down the days

I did 1 mile today.

Ending up small

I ran 1 mile today.

Not flying while flying

We travelled home today. I didn't run.

Squeeze the liver

After yesterdays debauchery, I decided to get out and go. I ran 3 miles today. It wasn't pretty and it was uphill on the way back, but I felt great after I sweated out the remains of yesterdays drinking festivities.

Warmer, but not motivated

We spent today in San Francisco with my brother-in-law and his wife. We had a few cocktails, ate a nice meal, saw the sights. There was no running involved.

I glove you

Wore the gloves today. It was 25 degrees and windy, but I did 3 miles and I had warm hands. Thanks for the gloves, Best-Husband-In-The-World!

All I want is... oh. Wait.

I did 1 mile outside today. I wished I had some running gloves and maybe a hat. Then I remembered that Jeff gave me running gloves and a hat. Now I just wished I had brought them with me. It's getting cold. I could never hike Mt Everest, no matter how many times I watch "Vertical Limit".

Tuesday blues

I did 1 mile today on the treadmill.
I am so close to the end, but completely losing interest in this resolution. I don't know if its the weather or the general malaise that only the genius possess and the insane lament (Austin Powers reference), but I am really, really looking forward to Jan 1 when I can go do some other kind of exercise without feeling guilty for not running.

Baby, its cold outside!

1 mile today at work. It was cold. My blood was full of ice!

Run for cookies

I had a cookie playdate planned, so I did 1 mile between cleaning the kitchen and waiting for the guests to arrive.

TV trouble

I ran 2 miles at the gym when I saw a news report about perverts so I had to run out and check on my kid in tennis lessons. Then I couldn't really get back into it. I did some weights and sit ups. But nothing too taxing.

1 at lunch

I did 1 mile at lunch today. I am worried at how this month is going to shape up. But not worried enough to run more...

nothing to report

Total slacker Thursday. Sure, I'm still a little tired from all the wine last night. But I'm just a slacker.

1 for the first

I quick mile on the hamster wheel before the book club came over for drinks and mini-quiche.

I'll gladly run tomorrow

Total slacker day. No real excuse. Except its dark outside when I get home. Really dark.

rest for Monday

My knees were achy so I rested today

Talkie-walkie

Went for a run with a friend today. I was sucking wind, feeling tired. Thankfully there was someone to talk to while I was walking. It was crappy, but thats all related to eating like crap and not sleeping much over the past few days.

I ran 4 miles today.

A simple 1

On the treadmill. Just 1 mile. Which is "meeting expectations".

Black Friday

This doesn't pertain to my toenails, its just the shopping day and since I ran yesterday, I'm taking a rest today.

Giving Thanks!

I ran the Gobble Wobble 5K today. It was chilly but I had a good race. 30:54.
I am very thankful that I got to run today!
Official time: 31:02, 10:00 pace 

Family gathers

I ran 1 quick mile while I was waiting for my parents to arrive for the holiday and for sushi to be made for pick-up.  I am running the Southborough Gobble Wobble tomorrow, but need to give the legs a stretch anyway.

Damn this is boring

Running on a treadmill sucks. It is SO boring. I don't care what's on TV. Its boring.
I ran 2 miles today.

Ready for trotting

I ran 2 miles today, including hills with intervals on the treadmill. I'm looking forward to the Turkey trot.

3 for Sunday

I did 3 miles today to repent for yesterdays hangover.

Drunken bum

I drank a lot last night at a party, and also danced quite a bit in high heels. So, I am totally calling "Uncle" today and not running.

Party day

I ran 1 mile then changed before the sitter arrived. We have the yearly school benefit, so I wanted to get in a little mile before I started to booze it up.

Diet and exercise, thats' the secret

I haven't eaten a carb in 2 weeks and I'm close to my goal weight. I've been running too, which I'm sure has helped.
I ran 2 miles today.

Speedy Reed-y

I ran 2 miles tonight on the treadmill. I ran them fast (for me) at a 9:15 pace with a few minutes of walking in the middle.

I felt pretty good. I signed up for the Turkey trot today.

Minimalist Tuesday

1 mile today b/c I am lazy.

Seriously sore

I was walking carefully this morning, my body was pretty sore from the run. Which is a good sign that I pushed it but a bad sign that I couldn't handle it. I'm old.
I ran 1 mile today to just do something.

4.5 with fun

Today was a great day for a run. I did 4.5 miles, through the park, up and over the big hill, then raced the last mile downhill to home. Its a beautiful crisp fall day today and I'm sure its the last nice day before winter settles in. I was happy to be running today.

Suicidal

I ran 3 on the treadmill at the gym today, with Grace Lazenby as my motivation. Then I stretched and ran 4 suicides on the basketball court. I was praying I wouldn't throw up. I didn't. I was exhausted all day, but it was good.

Warm fall day

I did 2 miles today at work. It was a glorious day.

Sofa sucker

I sat on the sofa for a minute and then just laid down, snuggled in, and fell asleep instead of running. The sofa just sucked the will to run right out of me.

Nothing to write about

I did 1.5 today at work. It was nice to get out but thats it. I'm losing the will to run. How many more days?

Minimal effort

I did 1.5 today. Nothing special.

Up Stairs

My knees are not pleased with the run from yesterday and they are bitching every time I walk upstairs. I'm sure it doesn't help that I'm also carrying a 30lb baby at the same time, but my knees are not happy. I took today off.

My favorite day of the year

The clocks fell back this morning. This is my favorite day of the year, the whole day stretches on forever and you can accomplish almost everything on the to-do list.
I ran 4.5 miles today. It was cold, but when dressed appropriately, it was tolerable.
There are 3 weeks left until the Turkey trot, remember to throw in some speed work this week.

Making wine from water

I sweated out my share of 6 bottles of wine today at the gym. It wasn't pretty, but maybe I shoulda thought about that when I was pouring that final glass of scotch after dinner with friends. I felt much better afterwards!
I ran 2 miles, with sprints, and did a whole bunch of weights.

1 for Friday

I did 1 quick mile today. TGIF.

Rain rain go away

Rainy dark day today, so I did 2 miles outside. I was having an awesome day, so I didn't want to blow it by not running.

With Grace

I'd forgotten how fun it is to run with Grace Lazenby. I did the 40 minute treadmill workout today, logging 3.5 miles and a 10% grade hill. I have the picture of her in my mind and I always feel I'm just 1 more workout away from getting her abs. (I wish!)

Just 1 more day

I did just 1 mile today, at lunch. It was a lazy day, which is strange when you consider I printed out the 5K plan this morning. Maybe tomorrow the inspiration will strike?

Dark days of fall

Its impossible to run in the sunshine during the week now.
I ran 1.5 miles on the hamster-wheel, wearing the gimmick shoes. It was fine.

Candy Land!

Today is Halloween. I did 3 miles today. It started hard, but once my body warmed up I felt pretty good. I needed today to be a good run so I could indulge in a little fun-sized candy this evening!

Cold. Oh Snap!

It was colder this morning. My feet were cold and I was sucking wind today while running. I did 2 miles and then called it quits. My shins were tight and my toes were numb. I'm sure its b/c my legs weren't warm enough. I just felt like crap.

Party monsters

I had the big kids school Halloween party today, and I jogged to the school and back, which is just a little more than a mile, while wearing the gimmick shoes. Which I think are actually doing something.

One for the books

I squeezed in 1 mile before book club.

Warmer Wednesday

Today is the almost end of the fall weather. I did 1 mile at work, then we "ran" to see The Town. It was pretty good, all around.

Perfect Spring day

It was really warm today and the sun was strong. I got a mile in today at work. I don't know what is up with the weather, but if it turns into summer and skips winter, I wouldn't complain!

Death by Chili

I wasn't sure I'd be up for a run today, after eating copious amounts of spicy chili, but I managed to pull out 2.5 miles (in the dark). I hit a few good songs on the last mile and ran like a banshee at the end. Felt good.

3 for Sunday

Cool fall day, lots of leaves on the ground. I did 3 miles today.

A-mazing day

Counting 1 mile for going to the Mega-maze with the kids and some friends.

Like a hamster

On the treadmill, 2 miles, with the gimmick shoes. It was ok.

New kicks

I caved into the gimmick and bought a pair of Reebok RunTone sneakers. I ran 2 miles in them yesterday. My shins didn't hurt at all and my abs were burning from having to focus on not falling over. I think these might be perfect shoes for the treadmill, just a little added challenge.

once around

Did 1 mile at work today. Not really motivated lately. Just trying to concentrate on the end and to think of all I've done so I don't lose focus.

Work stress

Seriously, with all the stress from work, I probably need to be out running more, but I feel lethargic and tired and unmotivated. I did nothing today.

Monday's blues

I think the hardest part of this resolution has been knowing I'm running or waiting to run when its dinner time. I miss having a meal with my family. But that's not the real reason I blew off today, I'm just lazy.

Never put off until later....

...what you shoulda run before breakfast.  In classic "Oh, I can run this afternoon" decision making, we were invited to a friend's house for dinner and I didn't run. I did end up dancing in their living room, but I don't think that really counts.

3 for Fall

Its a windy fall day and I did the 3 mile Mill Rd loop. Felt like there was a head-wind the entire time. But it felt good to get out and go.

Friday and work

Had to work late tonight, but this should be the end of the over-the-top craziness. Skipped it.

Rainy day

Skipped it, got home late, Jeff had trivia.

Wicked reason to not run

This is one of the reasons I should get my butt out of bed and run first thing, but its still a good excuse. I received free tickets to Wicked and managed to get a sitter, so I didn't run today but instead went to the theatre!

Get out!

I ran 2.5 miles yesterday. It was dark, work sucks, I didn't really enjoy it. As much as I wish I could hit some big numbers by the end of the year, I know its not going to happen. I need to align my fantasy world with reality.

Gym Monday

Went back to the gym for some speedwork. Did 2 miles today, 9 mins each. And some arm weights.

1 more

Did 1 mile today, it was nice to get out and I didn't really have time for a good long run. Sigh.

Here's something new

I went to the gym today! I did 2.5 miles and then did weights.

Run at lunch

Did a non-relaxing 3 miles today at lunchtime. Felt stressed about the clock the entire time. Running on lunch-hour is too rushed.

1 for Thurs

I did 1 mile today, then went to the parent's group meeting.

Lazy bastard

Ok, I didn't run today. B/c it was rainy and I just didn't feel like it. No real excuse.

Wet feet

When I was a teenager, I used to love running in the rain. Soccer or Lacrosse in the rain was a fun day. Rugby in the rain was why the sport was invented. Today, I couldn't get my butt out the door.
I think its time to get another race on the calendar.

Fall day

It was a little windy and a little dark this evening when I went for a quick 1 mile run. Fall is coming. I'm trying to get as often as possible before I go back to the treadmill.

1 while I work off the pot roast

Managed to make it out for 1 mile. Barely.

2 for Pot roast

We invited ourselves over to a friend's house for dinner when we heard they were making pot roast. I ran 2 quick miles in order to earn dinner!

Think Long-term: A note on September

This was my worst month. 33 miles is nothing, barely 1 a day. Work has been very stressful, I've had stomach aches and twitchy eyes. Its time to refocus, if I can't control the running, I'll never be able to control work.
On the other hand, I have run 450 miles to date over 9 months. That's impressive and I have 91 days to go.
Sometimes a little reflection is important, if I can't appreciate the past, I can't envision the future.
I ran 2 miles today.

You must have long term goals to keep you from being frustrated by short term failures.
Charles C. Noble

the rumble

Bad, bad, baaaad tummy trouble. Didn't run today. Not sure if it was the beer or the burger that did this to me, or just a germ I picked up flying. Its not pretty.

Booze bag

Didn't run today, too hung over from beer with people on my team. I don't understand why I can't lose weight...

Dark and tropical

Jacksonville FL is humid and dark in the morning. I did 1 mile on the hamster-wheel in the crappy hotel gym.

1 before flying

Had to fly out for work today, I ran 1 mile before repacking for my trip

Fly before you can run

Flew out of CO early today, no time for running.

Wedding gitters

Did a quick run today before we headed out for a fat breakfast, then got ready to guard the groom. I ran 2 miles today.

Breathe in a little more

Today's run was better, I got slightly lost,  but there was more air in my lungs. I ran 3 miles today

Breathe in, breathe out

Ran 3 miles today. Not too bad, felt it in my lungs, they were burning. It was a peaceful, pretty run.

High up

Based on prior experience of high altitude, I decided not to run today when we reached 7700 ft above sea level in Ouray

Run before you fly

2 quick miles before we need to finish packing to leave for CO! WOO HOO!

Tummy trouble

I felt awful after lunch today, which is what I deserve for eating at Chili's. So, I went home early and laid around.

5. Alive.

On a whim, I did 5 miles today. I didn't have my watch and I walked a little, but it was pretty good. I went around Mill Rd, then over Chestnut, and back down Ruggles. It was nice to do some distance and I felt great all day.

Too many errands

I didn't get around to running today, too much stuff to do to prepare for our CO vacation.

we all fall down

I jumped out of bed in the middle of the night when the baby cried and managed to smash my face into the wall resulting in a big egg on my forehead. (Another reason why having kids is hazardous to one's health.)
This bump on my head really hurts. I took today off.

Around and around

Walked 1.5 today, enjoying the nice weather and sneaking away from the ringing phone in my office.

School daze

Walked a mile today with the big kid on our way to and fro for the Open House at her school.

Work-break

I did 1 mile today at work. It was a nice break to get away from my desk and feel the sun on my face.

2 more for Sunday

Had grand thoughts of a 3-5 miler today, but my shins were achy and I didn't feel into it. I ran 2 miles today.

2 for 9/11

Just did 2 miles. It was sucky. I felt like crap.

Friday is rest day

The big kid had soccer and in the rush to get the little one settled, there wasn't time for a run tonight.

Kick the ball, drag Jessie

I am totally sucking wind right now. But I made it out for a 1 miler. Isn't that all that counts?

1 miler

I'm losing the motivation to run. I ran 1 mile today.
Work, kids in school, general business is making it hard to prioritize running.

Little 1

just another 1 miler. Weather is finally cooling down.

Sweat it out

Now that I'm old, it takes me several days to recover from a drinking binge. I ran 1 painful mile today, feeling large, slow, and dehydrated.  I think I finally sweated out the last of the white wine.

Troublemakers

2 of our friends crashed with us when Hurricane Earl forced them from the Vineyard. To make them feel better about their changed vacation, we drank 9 bottles of wine. Therefore, I was physically unable to go running today. Friendship always takes its toll...

Slow and steady

I did 3 miles today. My watched died on the first block so I had to listen to my body. I was a little winded but crushed the hills, so I feel pretty good about it all.

Cracked up

I went to the Chiro as soon as I woke up. My neck is still killing me and now my back hurts from lying still all night. He cracked it good, and I'm recovering today.

Pain in the neck

I reached for my coffee cup this morning and something pinged in my neck. It got worse and worse over the course of the day. I can barely move and its really painful! I took today off since I can barely walk, let alone run. I had to stop eating my apple today b/c it hurt my neck too much!

Hotter than hades

Seriously, its so hot I can barely think. The big kid started school again today, I hope they have A/C! I did 2 quick miles to get in and out of the oppressive heat.

once around

Did 1 mile today at lunch. My head really hurts!

2 for Tuesday

I did 2 quick-ish miles today.

speedy legs

I managed to triumph over my laziness today and I ran 1 mile QUICKLY without stopping. I didn't wear my GPS, b/c sometimes I need a break from the numbers and need to read my body instead of my watch.

2 hot to handle

I'm really not good in the heat. I am a New Englander and complain the second the mercury rises above 95. When I awoke on Sunday, the sun had already beaten me down. I did not run today.

a quart low

I didn't really drink much water in the past 4 days. I felt it this morning. I did 2.5 miles today, and was thirsty the whole time.

Heading into the hills

I ran 2 miles today at Moms. Went up the hill in the foggy morning. It was a treat after being on the treadmill.

one more on the mill

like a hamster in a wheel. 1 mile before heading into the NY office.

hotel treadmills..

..they suck. But I ran 1 mile before dinner.

Off and out

Its raining again and I don't feel like running, so I totally slacked off.

Dodgy business

I ran 2 miles today. I ran them fast, it was hard to slow down but I felt pretty good. Then my shins started to hurt but that's a by-product of all the walking in NYC. It was rainy and I dodged the raindrops while I ran, it was refreshing to run in the rain with a cool mist on my face, the summer has been so dry and hot.

foot-hurty

I didn't run today, we had a lot of driving to do from NYC to my Moms to our house and my feet were aching from the walking yesterday.

Walk-a-thon

I didn't run today, but Jeff and I walked around NYC for almost 4 hours. My legs were aching by the end, but it was a great day and we saw a ton of fun things.

Get out!

I ran 1 quick mile before we jumped in the car to head out for the weekend.

take it easier

Did 1 mile at work today b/c its Jeff's bday and I know we're going out tonight for a mini-celebration with the kids.

take it easy

I did 1 mile at work today, b/c I have plans for a drink with some friends tonight

Funny, it doesn't feel like 92

I ran last night. My new shoes are still breaking in and I ran a little faster than usual. When I got home I noticed that it was 92 degrees. Its funny how we can acclimate over time. Its been a hot summer, but 92 felt like a normal day today!
I ran 2 miles today.

Deep thoughts

I ran 1 mile today. I've been feeling frazzled all day, work is busy, I'm trying to figure out a solution to some code issues, plus I'm still tired from the "vacation". I ran 1 mile today.

Too much of a good time

I am feeling tired and crappy today and we spent 5 hours in the car so I am not running but instead eating more crap food before I start the diet leading up to BabyBrother's wedding.

Fast pace

Did 3 miles today with the girls while on vacation in Maine. Talked the whole time and was breathing hard. Vacation exercise is my new favorite kind!

With the moms

The moms snuck out for a workout before the day started and before the kids (and husbands) got out of control. We did 3 miles, and it was nice to talk the whole time but enjoy the silence.

Quick! Before we go!

Leaving for Maine in a few hours so I have to run before we hit the car. I ran 1 mile.

Within expectations

Did 1 mile today before running off (get it??) with some friends for girls' dinner. It was hot but it made me earn my glass of wine!

Turn over

My legs want to quit the team. I did 3 miles today and it wasn't pretty. My legs are just heavy, but I also know I ate like crap today, so what can you expect?

Monday's blues

It was hot and my left ankle still hurts, so I called today a Rest Day.

Celebration time!

I celebrated yesterday's run by buying new shoes today. I now officially have my 5th pair of Brooks Adrenalines.

I feel pretty good today but my feet hurt around my ankles bones and of course I have new blisters under my callouses. I think as the run went on yesterday and I became tired and less careful with my form, my shoes offered less support b/c they were old.

Well, that excuse isn't good again for another 400 or so miles!

I ran 2 miles today. I am also having half-marathon thoughts. Not sure if Jeff would kill me or not. Probably.

Longest run of the year

Leggy Neighbor and I ran today. We did the Adam loop with an additional mile at the end. I was sucking wind on the uphills but didn't walk a single step! We ran 7 miles in 1:09. I'm pretty proud of that and it confirms that I can do it if I put my mind to it.

Pre-run rest

I rested today b/c I know I'm doing a big run with my tall leggy friend and I want to do my best tomorrow.

Run fast, walk. Repeat

I had a limited amount of time to run today, so I went quickly to the track and ran a few intervals. It was hot but my lungs and legs held up pretty well.
I ran 1.5 miles today

Hustle back

Did a quick 1 mile then went home to prepare for my book club.

Just 1 little mile

Did just 1, but thats the beauty of a low-expectation resolution!

Say it, say it again

It felt pretty good today to do 2 miles, after yesterdays 5er. I always felt that running after a long run was sacrilegious, but I think I was wrong this whole time. I can run and then run some more. Maybe I read too many running magazines?

A little distance

Its been 7 months with this resolution. I needed a little break from running and took 2 days off. Jeff and the big kid went camping, so the baby and I were home alone. It was good to put a little rest on the books. I needed a little distance from running to add a little distance to my running.

I ran 5 miles today and felt good the whole time.

Take it off, Baby!

And another day off. Don't think I'm not doing anything. I'm playing/chasing a 2 year old. But I'm not really running.

Take it off

Jeff and the big kid went camping so I did nothing today. I also plan to do nothing tomorrow. I think I need some space between me and running. Being alone with my thought isn't as fun as I thought it would be!

Quiet time

I did 2 slow miles tonight, I was a little achy  in the shins, but it was good to stretch it out. I'm starting to wonder if I need a real rest, since I feel achy after almost every good run.

Best run in a while

Slow and low. Listening to the Skirted Roundtable podcast and then I realized I had run 3.5 miles and didn't walk a single step. The creepers have crept away!

Creepers

I'm stressed. Work is full of annoying uncertainty, our childcare has changed, babies are mad, my stomach hurts. All this change and little aggravations are creeping into my run. I'm tired. I probably need a real break from running b/c I think I'm in a rut. I need more veggies in my diet.

All these little thoughts are creeping around my mind and it makes it hard to stick with it.

I did 1.5 miles today. Still feel crappy.

like a sore toe

For some reason, the big toe on my left foot hurts. It aches and my shins are complain-y too. I think its back-related from lugging a crappy picnic-backpack around on Saturday. I need to see the chiro.
I took the day off.

Beach break

I walked a mile today at the beach.No running, but lots of fun with the kids!

Warm-up

I ran 2.5 miles today. I was hoping to do more, but we decided to go hiking today, so I did a quick run before heading out with the family.

Crybaby

I'm a whiny crybaby and its hot out. I did 1 mile.

A change in the weather

The weather is glorious today. I ran 3 miles enjoying the cool breeze and the sunny spots on the road. I'm going to try to get a running buddy and knock out a 5 miler this weekend.

Lazy baby

Did 1 mile today at lunch. This is just laziness on my part.

Just 1 measly mile

Did 1 mile today. Thats about all I could handle. Crap at work has me stressed out.

This is why I run

There was an incident at work that had me spitting mad so I knew I needed to clear my head. The anger, combined with the fact that I ate low-carb today made for a pretty speedy run. I had been eating like a carb-starved crazy woman for the past week and reining it all in makes me realize that I am what I eat. I had a good run tonight in the heat.
I ran 3 miles today.

Does it count if you stop halfway to eat breakfast?

I did a mile today, but it was interrupted by eggs benedict and breakfast with my parents. I think I won't count it, but I did get out.

Get going early

Woke up, got out of bed, shoes on, out the door.
I ran 3.5 miles this morning. It was HOT, but I enjoyed the quiet and crushed the hills.

Not the best birthday gift

I took the day off. I should have run, it would have been a better gift to myself.
I'm 37 today. But don't feel a day over twenty-seventeen.

Baking

Its HOT. Did I mention that? Did 3 miles before Jeff left for Trivia. I'm bored with running.

Labor day

Today, 6 years ago, my first baby was born! I ran 1 mile today at lunch and it was HOT HOT HOT.

Suck it up

Ran 2 miles today. Have been eating like a total pig, so the run wasn't the best.

Its not the heat...

... it's the stupidity.

I ran 2 miles this evening. It was sticky and I didn't really feel like I had any energy. Probably not enough water today.

Vacation hangover

Today felt like a good day for a rest. I was feeling slow and tired on my last run in MN, so it was probably time to rest and then start the week with a change. I think I'll do intervals or hills tomorrow, even though it promises to be HOT.

Get out!

Fee and I ran 3.6 in the morning. Getting the run in first thing, before we began our respective journeys home, felt like a final good vacation accomplishment.
Goodbye MN, see you next year!

Chatty cathies

We did the 3.7 route today, nice and slow, and chatting the entire time. It felt good, although it was H-O-T hot since we waited for the afternoon. Nothing a dip in the lake didn't fix!

Run around the loop

Felicia and I managed to slow it down today and ran the 3 mile loop, first thing in the morning.

Running friends

New friends arrived today, so I ran 3.7 with Felicia. We ran it FAST, probably some sort of competition mixed with excitement that urged us on, but we were doing 9:30 miles.

Another birthday

We have a wealth of birthdays this week, so I had to run another 3 miles in order to earn another slice of birthday cake.

4 for the birthday

My little Beechnut turns 2 today, so I ran 4 miles while she was napping.
I ran to the end of the road and sucked on the hills. I hit a second wind by the end, but it wasn't a very good run.

Talk the loop

In an effort to rest my knee and appear more social, I walked 1.7 today with my friends at the Lake. I did borrow a pair of Reebok Easy-tone sneakers and I can feel the muscles more in the back of my legs.

Grandpa's Run for the Walleye

4 of us ran the Grandpa's Run for the Walleye in Crosslake today. The Big Beechnut ran the Sunfish Dash and finished very quickly.
The race was on pavement, with little shade and no water. I didn't do as well as I wanted, I finished in 31.08, almost exact 10 min miles. I started out too quickly, trying to keep up with the boys, and my 2nd mile suffered for it.
But it was a nice race and we had fun.
Official time: 31.14, 10:04 pace

at the lake!

3 fast miles with Trav today, over hills. feels pretty good!

Pack it up, pack it in

Did 1 mile while I should have been packing for MN. The sneakers are now in the bag. Good to go.

Google doesn't have all the answers

I woke up early to run and saw that quote on a church sign.  I love running early in the morning, when I do manage to successfully haul my butt out of bed. It feels like you get the freshest air.

I ran 2.5 miles today, up and over Chestnut St, which I haven't run in years, since the mileage isn't that big. But it was a nice quiet street and a good morning for a run.

Update: I won the weekly Biggest Loser weigh in! I have officially lost 16 pounds since the start of the year. WOO HOO!

Knees up

My knees felt like they were bleeding internally. So I rested.

I get to.

I get to run everyday. I'm lucky. Even when it feels sticky and hot, I remind myself that I get to run. And I smile and the run feels good.
I ran 1.5 miles today.

300 Big Ones

I ran 300 miles YTD. This feels pretty good, I didn't really think about any other milestones when I made this resolution except to do a min of 1 mile a day. But I have run farther than that. I think this means I deserve a running skirt. Because I am a runner.

I ran 3 miles today.

Short work

I ran 3 miles this morning, much better than yesterday. I did the hills with no much problem and finished fairly strong. I am trying to focus on making each mile count, not just collecting junk miles to add up.

1 crummy mile

I have a lot of turmoil at work today and I ate poorly last night. So its no surprise that my run today was awful. I knew it when my feet hit the sidewalk that it was going to be a struggle. Feeling heavy legged, tired, pain in my teeth.
So I just did 1 mile. Save the knees for an early morning run tomorrow, thats today's motto.

Knee pain

One more day of rest to get my knees to stop yelling at me. They really don't hurt while I'm running, its when I stop, but I imagine there is some kind of exercise I should be doing to strengthen something. Maybe hill repeats?

Slow down

I tried to run slower today and just did 1.5 miles. I did notice that after only 6 months, these miles are getting much easier and faster. I think its looking like a good weekend to try the 6 -mile uphill Adams, I haven't run that loop since the Police 10K 2 years ago. We'll see if I can rally someone to run it with me.

Pain in the knee

Now my other knee hurts. I rested today and plan to run 3-ish nice and slow tomorrow.

Numbers Girl

I've always been a numbers girl. Not that I can quickly do math in my head, but I love the way numbers feel when you notice them. When I was younger, a mere lass in my 20s, smaller numbers were more intimidating. Three miles seemed far, Five miles was practically a marathon. 80 minutes was a rugby game but that didn't seem the same as 8 miles.
As I watched 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 go past my feet today on the football field, it didn't seem so bad to be climbing them, but once I stopped counting (and breathing) I remembered why it was called "Suicides".
I ran 2 miles today (not including 2 suicides).
2 more down...

3 and humid

Since it was Father's day, I skipped the morning run in favor of making bacon-egg-and-cheese sandwiches for the handsome father of my children. Which meant I ran in the afternoon. With the humidity. But it went pretty well.
I ran 3 miles today.

Chatterbox

I went for 4 hilly miles today with my fellow pony-tailed runner neighbor. We've run before several times and its nice to have someone to chat with while you push it. We went pretty fast, and still managed a conversation so it was a good pace. A great way to greet the weekend.
 13 miles till 300.

Morning riser

Jeff worked from home this morning, so I dragged myself out of bed around 6 and did a little run, testing the knee. It felt fine while I was running. I was thirsty though, so I didn't stay out for too long.

I ran 1.5 miles today.

Mileage note: I have run 283 miles so far this year. I'd like to hit an even 300 by the end of the month, so I have to fire up the legs. 11 days left and 17 miles to go.

Get crackin'

Went to the chiro. He said something slightly disturbing about how my miniscus might be sliding around.
I decided another day of rest was in order.

Knee wall

My left knee has been hurting. Its the usual pinch when I walk around. I'm going to rest today and try to get in to see the chiro tomorrow.

Spinning the wheels

Went to the gym and tried to build some motivation. I ran 1 mile, and then did the bike for a while. Nothing exciting.

165 Down!

I noticed on my countdown clock today that there are 200 more days left in the year. Who woulda thought I'd make it almost to halfway? Not me!

I ran 2.5 miles today.

Run, rest. Repeat, Repeat, etc.

Did intervals at the track today, for 8 repeats.
Run 1 min, jog (or walk) 1 min.
Tried to run closer to 8:30 miles. I was all out sprinting in the beginning, but managed to pull it in for the last half. Its tricky to feel pace, I'm not good at it.

Rain run

Did 3 miles in the rain. Up and over Eli Whitney. Pretty good on the hills, just a little bored with the whole thing, plus it was raining.

Legs of lead

Did 1.5 at work. Sucking wind.

Dodgy day

I did 1.5 miles at work today, trying to dodge storms. it was successful, it not just a little humid.
Need to tack on some serious mileage this weekend, this week has been very slow.

Rainy day

I tried to get up in the morning and run, but instead I laid in bed and thought about how I should get up and run.
I ran after work, in the rain. 2 miles. Felt crappy the whole time.

round and round

I ran 2.5 miles at the track today. Boring, but speedy!

Gym Monday

Almost bailed, but dragged my sorry legs to Pilates. Now my shoulders are sorry!

I did 1.5 miles today at work too.

This is getting ridiculous

Didn't run today. It was humid and rainy when I woke up and then we invited friends over in the afternoon.

Off-road

I went over to Jen's and we ran 4 miles, including 2 miles off-road on the Robinson Memorial. It was humid as a group shower, but it was so nice to be off the pavement. It was a good day to be out and about.

Big ugly dinner

Did 1 mile after dinner. Not fun.

Quick! Before it rains!

Did 1.5 at lunch today. Had to pick up the pace b/c thunderstorms were rolling in. Feeling fine after intervals.

Big girl pants

I was worried that the motivation to keep running was slipping away. Determined to put on my big-girl panties and take charge, I IM'd with my friend Leslie today, and she told me all about this fancy new workout.

Are you ready? Intervals! Duh.

I ran over to the track and sprinted for 1 minute and then jogged for 1 minute for a total of 8 repeats.

When I was sprinting, my garmin said I was close to 7.5 minute miles! Who knew I could turn the legs over that fast?

I then jogged a mile for this new-fangled idea of a cool-down.
I ran 3 miles today.

Lazy ass

June is not starting exactly the way I'd like.

I did nothing today.

Too much baking

I woke up early but not early enough for a run. I had baked goods to make for a party. I ended up totally skipping the run today, after lots of seafood, cake, and beer at the party.

I'm disappointed about this, but it seems like a fitting end to a crappy month of running. Time to get a new mindset for June. I'm disgusted with May.

Mill Rd

I did 3 miles today, going up Mill Rd from the East. I was a little tired and my legs were heavy but I plodded my way up the big hill without stopping. Didn't wear a watch, which might have helped with my mental state.

new baby fun

I did a quick 3 miler before I showered and scrubbed and went to meet my friends new baby girl. The run was ok, still feeling sluggish.

preparing for the long weekend

I did a 2 mile run today. Felt like crap- heavy legs, thirsty. Not the best way to start the long weekend.

Break in the weather

Although it was really nice today, I did 1 mile on the treadmill b/c Jeff was out with a work-dinner. Running inside sucks. I'm looking forward to a few long runs over the long weekend.

We must be a mile from the sun

I did 1 mile today, at lunch. Damn near melted in the lap around the building.

And now I remember why I am afraid of spinning

It was too hot for my thick blood to run outside, so I went to the gym.

I ran 1.5 miles doing sprints for 2 mins and jogging for 1 min.

Then I went into the spinning room for 10 mins and did hops and hills. My heart is still racing and I want to lie down.

I then moved to the stretching area where I did pikes, tucks, pushups and situps until the blondie I ate for lunch threatened to ooze out my skin.

Sometimes I just get so motivated to push it, I wish I could harness that energy all the time, I'd be a machine!

around and around

Went to the track last night to try speed work, but the big beechnut came with me, so it was a little run. I did 1 mile today, but actaully did the individual laps pretty quickly.

Mama has still got it!

I ended up running 4 miles tonight. I had planned to do some speed at the track, but then Jeff left a backpack that had my phone in it at friends' house, so I ran there to get it. On the way back, a car full of  boys honked at me.  This totally cancels out the time a truck yelled "Keep running fat ass".
I felt ok, it was humid, but it was nice to get out today.

Easy like Saturday morning

I did 3 miles this morning. It was ok, I ran slow and my achilles stopped talking after I warmed up. My legs felt heavy, but I also didn't have breakfast.

Rest

Achilles hurts, knee hurts. Taking the day off.

Slow ride

I did 2 miles today, but it was achy.

Drizzle

I ran 3 miles today in the rain. It wasn't the best run, but I think I'm starting out too fast, and then burning out. I just remembered that we are going to MN for the 4th of July and there is usually a race nearby around that time. Time to sign up and get a new goal.

Getting sick of it

I'm not going to lie. I'm about 40% through this resolution and I'm losing momentum. This is the "I just ran a race hangover" I usually get, but I had hoped htis resolution would keep me running.

Maybe a run with no watch or ipod is called for.

I did 1.5 miles today.

Going thru the motions

I think I'm getting sick of Pilates. I had to drag myself to the class tonight. I had an easy mile on the treadmill. I eased my achilles into it with a slow half-mile and then did a fast half-mile to finish.
The class was tough, so maybe I'm just not working hard enough?

Take it easy Sunday

My left achilles has been hurting, it feels tight for the first mile or so and it hurts when I go down stairs. Strange. I did 1 mile today.

Spring sprung

It was a gorgeous Spring morning. Clear skies,. puddles from last nights thrunderstorm to jump over, a nice wind.

I did 3 miles today.

TGIF

I did I mile, even though I had a head cold.

Walkabout

Did 1.5 miles today at lunch. it was beautiful!

Just get out there

I'm in a funk about running right now. This always happens. I sit back and admire how much work I've done while I watch said hard work slip away. I need a new race and a realistic goal. I don't have time to train for another half, not this year. I need to find a series of 5Ks and try to increase my pace.

I ran 2 miles today.

Hill. Repeat

To change it up, I went back to O'Neill Drive and ran the hills.

I ran 2 miles.

Back in the gym Monday

Ran 1 mile and then went to Pilates. It felt good to do the class again.

fire up those walking sticks

I did 1 mile today. I had to get the legs going again, before it was too late.

Rained out

I could not get motivated to run today. I have no defense. Sheer laziness.

Resting a little bit

I ran 1.5  miles today.

teamwork

I won the biggest loser contest at work. And celebrated with some Doritos.

But I ran 3 miles with my running-buddy. It wasn't great- abs sore, legs tired. Related to the Doritos? Maybe.

recovery

Did 1 annoying mile today to recover.
My hip flexors are tight. I need to make a concerted effort to go to Pilates this week.

Its all in your head

I thought I was getting so good. That I was stronger than I'd ever been. Then I looked back at old race results and realized all along I'd been able to run under 10 minute miles.

Maybe its time to raise the bar. Can I get to 9 minute miles?

I ran 2.5 miles today, and did the first mile in a 9:30 pace. Its not going to be easy, but I bet I can do it with a little effort.

Respect the run with rest

I rested today to reward my shins for the fast run.

I saw it on the internet, so it must be true

I am getting faster. I ran the Westborough Spring Festival 5K today and felt pretty good about it. I ran strong and it was up Eli Whitney, which is a nasty big hill. I walked for a few seconds twice up the hill but I pounded it home on the downhill.

Official time: 30:48. 9:55 pace.

Doing math

I did some math yesterday. Specifically, Addition. I ran 203 miles in the first 4 months of the year. Two-Hundred-Three. That seems like a lot to me and I'm happy about it. Mostly I'm impressed that I'm hanging onto this resolution like I mean it.

I ran 1 mile today, tomorrow is a race.

Just under the wire

My running partner emailed and wanted to do a 3-4 mile run tonight.  I said "Sure!". We had a good 4 mile run, I didn't stop once, not even on the big hill! Its great to run with someone again. We are doing the race together on Sunday too.

I ran 4 miles today.

Quiet hills

I found a quiet street to do a hill run and its very peaceful listening to the kids being called in for the night or seeing people walking their dogs while I trudge up their hill.

I ran 3 miles today.

1 mile recovery

This was a slow mile on the treadmill, it felt even slower when my daughter popped her head in the room and asked "Can't you go any faster?".
I did 1 mile.

Best 3 miles ever

I ran the usual 3 miler to the post-office and back. I was flying. It felt great. What doesn't kill me (a hilly 6 mile race) makes me stronger. I wish I'd had my garmin on, I'm sure I was doing just under 10 min miles.

1 mile recovery

I ran 1 mile on the treadmill today. It wasn't fun, but I felt much better afterwards.

Groton Road Race - 10K

It turned out to be a beautiful day for running today. The weather was nice and sunny but not too warm. The Groton Road Race was a pretty hilly course, the entire thing was rolling hills, but the people I talked to on the run were friendly.

I was second-guessing my decision to run in the first mile, but then my shins loosened up and I felt better. When I hit the water stop at the 2nd mile I walked a little but then picked the pace back up. When I hit the second half, I was in good spirits and running pretty fast. I finished the race with a sprint around the track, passing 3 people at the end. Its probably poor etiuquette to do that, but I didn't care, I just wanted to beat a few people.

I ran 6.2 miles today in about 1:04. I am waiting for the official results, but I feel really good about this race.
Update: Official time: 1:04:46, 10:26 pace. 

Rest means no running

I ran errands today, but no running. Tomorrow is the first race of the year!

Lottery loser

I received the email today, I didn't get into the Nike Women's Half Marathon. Maybe next year. I'm a little bummed, but now I might shift my focus to 5Ks and trying to get faster.

I walked 1 mile today, as a "rest" day.

3 miles down

Did 3 miles. I did some walking and snooping looking for screened porches. It was pretty good.

Cross it

1 mile walking. That counts as cross training, right?

Getting by with a little help

The greatest husband in the world (yes, honey, YOU!) picked up the kids and cooked them dinner last night so I could scoot out and do my run before he went to soccer. I was achy from the long run and Pilates, but it was good to stretch out. I have to run Thursday night too, and then its nothing until the race.
Exercise is a total juggling act when you have kids. I don't know how our friends managed to do a marathon and still be recognized by their children.

I ran 2 miles.

Back in the gym Monday

I ran 1 mile, then did Pilates. Legs were screaming, so I did it slow and it was not fun. I'm trying really hard to do all the runs this week, just in time for the race on Sunday.

The farthest this year

I ran 5.5 miles today.

It was rainy and cold, but perfect for running. I ate the Hammer gels, but my lower legs are still feeling heavy. I almost turned around at one point, but my good sense persevered and I shuffled on up 2 big hills. There was some walking, so I don't think I'm going to break any land-speed records next week, but I do feel pretty confident I can do the race with out being injured.

Hammer time

I ran to PR Running today to stock up on energy gels for the next 2 big runs. Jeff was making fun of me, but lately I've been feeling just tired on my runs, so I figure it couldn't hurt. The entire store was buzzing with marathon excitement. Someday, maybe. They were out of Carboom and I can't do Gu, so I bought Hammer Gels. More on that tomorrow.

I ran 2 miles today.

Rest

I rested today. Well, I did a lot of walking with a pink-eyed baby who was banned from daycare but I intentionally didn't run today. I figure the getaway sticks need a little downtime before tackling 5.5 this weekend.

Thursday

3 miles. Ran into Jen again and it was nice to chat while we ran together. I also listened to a CraftSanity podcast, Daniel from Project Runway was being interviewed and the conversation kept me distracted.

1 for Weds

Did 1 mile today at work. Shoulda done 3, but thats for tomorrow.

2 for Tuesday

Did 2 laps of the building today at work. 1.5 miles.

Back to the grind

I did 2 miles on the treadmill, then went to Pilates. I am exhausted right now!

Need a do-over

Did 2.5 miles, barely. Crappy run- felt tired the entire time. My legs felt like lead, my shins hurt and even when I walked I felt like I had no energy.
It might be time to consider what I'm eating.

Busy Saturday

I did 1 quick mile on the treadmill between a museum visit and dinner at a friends house.

Rain run

Did 1 mile in the rain today after work.

It takes 2...

I "ran into" my running partner today and we chatted while we ran a mile together. She was just ending her run and I was just starting. It was the first time we'd run together in over a year. She had a stress fracture last year and is now training for the Boston Marathon. It was nice to have someone to talk to, someone to keep me from stopping.

I ran 3 miles in 30:40.

Cross it again

Did 1.5 at work, shoulda done the 3 miles tonight but I didn't.

Cross it

Did 1.5 miles at work today. Shoulda done 3, but it didn't happen.

Kid's birthday party Monday

No time to go to Pilates, my big-girl had a party to attend.
I did 1 mile on the treadmill running, and then I walked another 1.5 while watching Biggest Loser re-runs. Some guy lost 400+ lbs just working out at home! Maybe its time for me to get serious about that last 15...

Nike Women's Half Marathon

I have wanted to run this race for about 4 years, ever since I heard the finisher gets a necklace designed by Tiffany. Call me shallow, but I want a medal I can wear every day!

I just registed for the random drawing for the Half-marathon. Keep your fingers crossed.

Hooker-dirty

Not that kind of hooker. A hooker is the position on a rugby team in the center of the scrum. I played rugby for 4 years in college so I can make these comparisons with authority. I ran today with 1.5 miles off-road at the new Lee Property in town. It was pretty muddy in some parts but I didn't care, it reminded me of the days when we were covered in mud after a Spring match. We'd be mud-caked and at the drink-up we didn't think to wash our hands before drinking beer out of someone's dirty shoe. Good times.

I ran 5 miles today. Shins were hurting and the motrin didn't kick in until around mile 3, but I did 5.

Happy Easter!

Geocaching

I did a 1 mile walk today with the family while doing some treasure hunting. I found a nice park near the Mill Pond school for some trail running.

Multi-tasking

I ran with the jogging stroller to daycare to get the baby and run home. It was a 2 miler. Running with a chatty toddler in a jogger isn't easy and I really don't know how other people do it. I felt awkward and uncomfortable the whole time and I had to walk quite a bit.

Spring breaks!

It was B-E-A-utiful today! I did only 1.5 miles outside, since I was scrambling to get out to meet friends for dinner.

End of Q1

I ran 2 miles today.

I was supposed to do 3 but my shins were killing me. I think I need a serious icing regime, and I'll start tomorrow.

Looking at the calendar, I can't believe it's been 3 months. Which seems like a lot, but when you realize I have 274 more days of running, I feel a little overwhelmed by the magnitude of doing something every day for a year. Now that the weather is warmer and I can get off the treadmill, the running will seem more like a reward when I run outside.

Regardless, I have made it 3 months, running (almost) every day. This calls for a celebration. I think I'll splurge this weekend on some new running clothes and some music for my ipod.

House-bound Tuesday

Jeff has soccer Tuesday evenings, so I have to either start to switch my 3-miler to Weds or just run earlier. I'll try for the 3-mile Weds.

I ran 1.5 miles today on the hamster wheel.

Suffering

My lower legs are killing from the hike on Sunday. All the little muscles in my feet and lower legs that I used to not slip are aching.

I ran 1 mile on the treadmill. Not sure how I'm going to do 3 miles tomorrow.

View from the top

I hiked 5 miles today with Kristen and Nellie to the top of Mt Cardigan. We ran up it- I was out of breath the entire time and my hamstrings were burning but it felt great. The view from the top was very cold by worth the hike, we could see several mountain ranges in the distance.

We snapped a photo as proof of the ascent and then sprinted back down the mountain for hot chocolate at the Lodge. It was a great hike.

Walk a little, talk a little

Went to Mt Cardigan, NH with a few other families. We walked 1.5 today, but I'm counting it as my mile since I carried the not-so-little toddler in the backpack and we were on snow.

Ready for the weekend

Did 1 mile today at work. I'm ready for the weekend!

Hill. Repeat. Hill. Repeat

Did 2 miles with 5 hill repeats up O'Neill drive, the steepest hill in town. When I've done these in the past I was dying at the top, but this time, it was just my lungs hurting. So, I feel like my body is getting strong and now I might have pushed into a new level of cardio efficiency.

Sping in my step

Did 2 miles outside today. It was beautiful!

Rain, rain, go away

I did 2.5 on the treadmill today.

Gym Monday

I did 1 mile at 6.3mph. I was out of breath when I jumped off to hit the Pilates class. When you consider that it was less than 10 mins at that pace, its not really impressive, but I was happy that I did it.

When will Spring spring?

It feels like Spring this weekend.

I ran 4 miles, dodging church-goers, sprinting up hills, trying to ignore my shins. I iced when I got back. It was a good day

Best weather ever!

It was beautiful today. The 10K plan called for cross training. I raked leaves, walked with my family, pushed my big kid on her bike and ran 1 mile.

TFI-freaking-F

I ran 1.5 outside. I have to do 4 this weekend, so I didn't want to push it too much today. I do need to think about committing to either hills or speed drills once a week if I want to do well on this 10K.  My shins were aching and I also need to start icing.
Does it count if I ice my throat with a white-wine spritzer instead?

Life taking over

There were too many errands to run and kids to shuttle around today to run outside, so I did 1.5 quick miles on the treadmill.

Warm weather!

Did 1.5 miles today. It was so sunny and nice out I almost cried!

Parental controls are dumb

The parental control lock somehow was turned on in the cable box so I couldn't watch TV on the treadmill. I only did 1 mile.

Gym Monday

With a sinus infection I knew I couldn't do downward dog during Pilates, so I just did the treadmill and the ellipitcal.

2 miles.

Cross train!

The weather here has continuted to be cold and rainy so I cross-trained inside. Does it count as cross training if you run? I think maybe not.

I ran 2 miles today.

Spring ahead!

I ran 3 miles outside this morning. It was rainy and cold but it was nice to be out of doors. I did this route, which has a few good hills. My shins were complaining and my feet were numb for the first half of the run. But, I was out!

Active Rest

Did 1 quick mile before dinner. Now its time to TGIF and have a beer!

Big run tomorrow, need to carbo-load, you know.

Early to bed, early to rise

Got up at 5 to do 2 miles on the treadmill. It wasn't fun, but I got it out of the way early.

1.5 at work

Did the cross training by doing the 1.5 mile loop at work.

Week 2

This is Week 2 of the training plan. I just ran 2.5 miles on the treadmill. This Sunday is daylight savings time, I'm hoping to get outside soon, b/c I am sick of the hamster wheel.

Pilates with a vengance

I ran the mile before the weekly Pilates class. Our instructor had been absent for 2 weeks and she returned with some kind of axe to grind! I was so exhausted and sore at the end of class, I felt like I was dragging my legs to the car. I'm sure tomorrow's run will be no fun.

Another awesome afternoon

Walked 1.5 miles today, in addition to 2 hours on the playground. It was beautiful weather today.

Stuck inside

Another glorious day, but I was stuck inside while the baby napped. I ran 3.5 miles on the treadmill under the guidance of Grace Lazenby from one of the iTread workouts. It wasn't that hard, but I did pause it an walk 2 times while my shins recovered.

Signs of Spring

I did 1.5 miles at work today. Its in the high 40s, so you know Spring will eventually get here.

big bad lunch

I went out at lunch and ate  a ruben with fries. Not the best decision. I have felt like crap all day.

1 crummy mile on the treadmill thinking I might puke the whole time.

Cross-training on Weds

Did 1 mile, and walked for 20 mins to complete my 30 mins cross training.

Biggest Loser

Watched the Biggest Loser while running 2.5 miles in an effort to become the Biggest Loser during my weigh-in tomorrow at work.

March Madness begins

I've made it 2 months. I'm pretty impressed. Its time to bump it up a notch. I registered for a 10K at the end of April, so training starts today.

I printed out my favorite 10K plan from Hal Higdon. I've also used his 5K and 1/2 Marathon plans.

This will be the first time I make a concerted effort to do the cross training. Rest days will be a simple 1 mile run.

I ran 1 mile today, then did my "stretch and strengthen" at Pilates.

Last day in Feb

Ran 1 mile on the treadmill after dinner. It sucked. Every muscle used by the suicides was complaining.
But Hey! 2 months down!

Aptly named

I went to the gym today since it was raining/snowing/sleeting out. I ran 2 miles and then decided I'd stretch before running a third.  The empty basketball court called to me as I walked to the stretching area. I went inside with a jump rope and alternated suicides, jumping rope, sit-ups. I lay on the floor between sets convulsing for air. I completed 4 sets.

Then I went back to the treadmill and tried to run. Here's why they're called sucicides: you are unable to do anything else afterwards. I couldn't do the 3rd mile, my legs were spent!

It was nice to do some sprinting and change it up. My legs felt strong, but my lungs were burning. Which I hope prepares me for running outside soon.

Run for dinner

I was smart and ran before dinner today. 1 mile

slacker

I did 2 miles on the treadmill, the bare minimum to make up for yesterday. I need to schedule a race ASAP, or I'm never going to increase my mileage before spring.

chips and salsa let me down

I forgot to get up in time to run this morning and had too many chips, salsa and margarita to run when I got home after dinner with some old work friends. Gotta get better at planning and self-restraint around fried food!

running reader

I ran a mile before my book club meeting. I was pretty sweaty, not sure if it was due to lack of water or general muscle achy-ness.

Go slow to go fast

1.5 miles today at lunch. Its one of those warmish winter days that makes you think you can feel spring even though I know there are a good 2 months of winter left.

Listen

I decided to listen to my shins and not run today. My heels were hurting, my shins were tight, and my left knee was complaining when I went downstairs. I thought a rest day was in order, although I was running around with the kids all day today, so I felt like I took an active rest day.

Fighting every step

It was sunny and 50 degrees today, so I ran 3 miles. The whole trip was a fight with my shins. It was not pleasant. I wonder if this has something to do the fact I greatly increased my mileage this week while eating like crap?

Running for the weekend

I did the run today after lunch. 1 mile

Back to the hamster wheel

I ran 1 mile tonight. I was still tired from the trip to TX and didn't want to, but hey- I can do 10 minutes on the treadmill.

Hitting the road one more time

I ran 3 miles this morning. My shins were tight, but knowing that I was flying back to 6 inches of snow kept me motivated. Again, why do I live where we have winter?

Sunset

I walked a mile today with my husband, 2 kids, and a dog. It was not as easy as it sounds, but we enjoyed the warm sun on our faces while the sun set in Texas.

Watching the sunrise

Went for an easy run this morning and watched the sun rise over the hills in Texas. Passed plenty of deer while watching my breath fog up the air. It was pretty cold (although warmer than it would have been in MA) so I kept running to stay warm.

I ran 3 miles today.

Paying the piper

Everything ached today. I am paying for the run from yesterday.

I ran 1 mile today.

Road Trip!

We're visiting my inlaws for a few days in Austin TX. I had a fantastic run, with the sun in my face, the wind in my back, floated over the hills. I now have blisters on my toes, but the run was totally worth it. I did a 4.5 mile loop and felt strong the whole time.

Why do I live in New England?

U! S! A!

Ran 1 10-min mile before the Olympics started.

scratchy

My throat is a little scratchy, but I ran 1 mile, then ran out the door to dinner with friends.

I won! I won!

Won the Biggest Loser weekly contest at work today, 39 smackers! And, I did not celebrate with a breakfast from Dunkin Donuts! Nothing tastes as good as thin feels.

Weigh-in ready

I'm in a Biggest Loser contest at work. This one pays both the weekly winner (60% of the weekly pot) and the overall winner. I won on Jan 28 with a 4lb weight loss - the jackpot was $39. If I win this week too, I'm going to get some new running clothes. Keep your fingers crossed.

I ran 2 miles today.

10 down

Part of the reason for starting this resolution was to finally lose the baby weight from my 2nd pregnancy. I am now down 10lbs since January 1. When I started this blog, I weighed 152 and this morning the scale showed a 142. I want to get to 130, so I'm not celebrating yet.

In the past, I have either dieted or exercised. I would diet and be too tired to workout, or I'd run and decide I could eat whatever I wanted.

I have lost this 10lbs by a revolutionary new process called "diet and exercise". I'm sure it will be catching on everywhere soon!

In addition to running 1 or more miles every day, I have cut out pasta, bread and sugar. Basically sticking to protein and veggies. I'm eating a lot of homemade soup, a lot of salad with chicken, and a snack is usually a string-cheese stick. This seems to be working for me.

I ran 1 mile today.

Gym Monday

I ran 2 mile today-1 @6.0, 1@6.5  Barely lost my breath
Then I did Pilates, where I was out of breath the whole time, but did 30 military-style pushups without stopping.

Superbowl Sunday

I ran 1 mile while watching the half-time show. Now onto the chili!

A tick up

I ran 2.5 miles today.  1 mile at 6, 1 mile at 6.3 and .5 at 5.7
The mile at 6.3 went pretty well, I was surprised that I wasn't sucking wind at all.

Shhhh...

The thing I've always loved about running is the quiet time in my head. My shins talk, my knees talk, my lungs usually are bitching, but my brain is still. It's like when a computer reboots and suddenly the strange errors and popups are gone and it runs a little faster. My thoughts seem to get organized and prioritized by themselves during the reboot time of the run. I often have a really good idea or even just a new idea after a good run.  Today was one of those runs.

I ran 2.5 miles on the treadmill today and barely thought the whole time.

lunchy

Ran 1 mile at lunch. Weather was getting a little warm, in the 30s, so I did a slow jog in my workclothes with my sneakers.
Is it me, or is this the most boring blog in the world?

get more LOST

Ran 1 mile before I watched the 2nd half of LOST. Exactly 10 mins, didn't break a sweat, no warmup or cool down. Not what I'd call a workout, but it did make me think I should up the speed or distance of these 1 milers.

get Lost

I ran 1 mile before LOST started.

Gym Monday

I ran 1 mile, then did Pilates. I felt much better afterwards.

I am my own worst enemy

I didn't run today. I was hungover from a party on Saturday and just couldn't get myself to lace up the sneakers. This is very disappointing, but I have to look at the bright side and realize I did run 29 days this month.

Before heading to Boston

1 mile before heading in to Boston for the weekend. Its remarkable to me where I can find 10 mins to quickly exercise.

Things one should not do on a full stomach

Run 1 mile. Next time, remember to run before dinner.

Snow squall

Its warm outside, but the snow is starting to stick, so I ran 1 mile on the treadmill. It was easy, except for my eldest daughter begging me to stop b/c the treadmill was too noisy.

Long intervals

3 miles today.

I ran for .5 mile at 5.7mph, then .5 mile at 6.2 mph, for a total of 3 miles. Felt pretty good.

Are these long intervals or short tempos?

Turtle Tuesday

I ran 1 mile today.
I was a little sore from the gym yesterday, so I ran the mile at 5.7 mph. Just a little slower but felt much easier.

Gym Monday

When I arrived at the gym, it was close to the start of the Pilates class and initally I told myself I'd just skip the class and run. Then some part of my brain spoke up and rationed since I was already out of the house, kids in bed, shouldn't I do Pilates anyway, then do my quick run after?
So, for a change, I ran after Pilates class. Which was exhausting but I felt pretty strong. There were a few random steps where it felt like my knee might pop out of joint but I think its because the rest of my leg muscles were exhausted. I did 1 mile in 9:54.

Will I really pump iron?

I went to the gym and set up my profile and machine settings in their fancy weight machines. I know I have to be lifting weights at this point in my life to increase bone density and other important stuff. Strength training will also help with my endurance while running. Lets see if I can work that in with my schedule.
I ran 1 mile today after the weights.

Habit forming

I ran for 3 miles today at the gym on a steady 6.0. I walked in between the miles for a minute or two just to break it up.

I have now run for more than 21 days. It takes 21 days to make a habit, so I am officially now in habit of running every day.

TGIF

I did the mile, slowly. I was tired. My knees are a little achy and I decided this would be a "rest" day.
Its probably time to put together a schedule for distance, speed, and slow days so I can mentally and physically prepare.

Tomorrow will be distance and I'll develop a plan then.

An alarm-ing result

I did it! I woke up at 4:30am to run my mile. I have work commitments today, so I had to get up early if I wanted any hope of doing my run.

Best brain candy

"Models of the Runway", the show about the models from Project Runway, is my new favorite exercise show! There's no way I can stop running while watching pin-thin models fight over the bathroom mirror. Total motivation to keep going!

I ran 1 mile today.

A close race

The MA Senate race results are riveting. I was on the treadmill for 40 mins tonight waiting for all the results to come in.

I realized that a warm up followed by some light stretching seems to be the key to success. Who knew?

I walked on a big incline for 1 mile, ran for 1 mile @6.0, 1 mile with 6.0/6.5 intervals.

Hike hangover

I ran the mile today at the gym and followed it up with a Pilates class. Everything hurt during the mile. The hike on Saturday on snowy terrain was a little tougher than I thought and my shins, feet and arches were complaining today. It was a struggle to finish the mile, but I alternated between slow and stupidly slow speeds and completed it.

Intestinal distress

I really, really didn't want to do this run today. My stomach was achy, I felt out of sorts and tired. I started to run and felt great! It felt like just the thing I needed. Then I felt like I was going to vomit. I finished the mile and ran to the bathroom. I didn't actually throw up, but didn't feel any better afterward. I think its the remainder of the stomach virus thats going around.

Hiking

We spent the weekend at the AMC Lodge at Mt Cardigan in NH. I didn't "run", but I did a fairly intense 2.8 mile loop in the snow. I'm counting that as I was more out of breath than when I'm normally running.

Almost only counts in horseshoes

I almost made it out of bed this morning with time to run, but a crying baby disrupted my sleep last night. I ran around the building today at lunch. Wearing my casual Friday clothes. Its about a mile around the building. At least I got outside today!

Bending your mind around

Most of my running experience has involved training my brain to be calm during the distance. Now, I'm training my mind to be patient while running faster.

1 mile at 6.0 with some 6.3 minutes in the middle. Easy peasy.

Tomorrow is a test, I'll have to run first-thing in the morning if I want to get my run in. I already laid out my clothes and sneakers, shouldn't be too bad getting up at 5 to run.

Not a leap year!

Whew, I don't want to have to run a day more than necessary. (Is that counter-productive to the goal of this entire resolution? Probably.)

Sick baby

I was home today with a sick and whiny baby who just wanted to be held and then put down and then picked up again.

I skipped breakfast, without realizing it, ate poorly, drank no water, basically set myself up for failure.

I ran a mile on the home treadmill at 6.0, but was counting the minutes. I didn't have bounds of energy tonight that I have had in the past few days, and its clearly due to eating badly all day.

Tomorrow is a new day, time to dust off and get back on the horse.

Rest.

I decided I really did need some rest and I have a stomach virus, so I took today off.

Speed workout

Had a great run today. All day I was thinking "maybe I should be resting a day a week, maybe today is the day to rest." Then Jeff said his indoor soccer game was pushed back an hour so I jumped up and hit the gym.
I did a mile on the elliptical to warm up, followed by speed repeats for 2 miles on the treadmill.

Now that I know my pace, I know I can push it a little.

I did 5x(1 min @ 6.0 mph, 1 min @ 6.3 mph), then walked for 3 mins and repeated the repeats.
My right knee was talking, but not much pain.

I decided to stop doing the same thing and expect different results. As Nike says "Training is the opposite of hoping".

Its all about pace

I was reading Runners World, trying to figure out some good new treadmill workouts, and most of the workouts discuss pace in relative terms: 20 seconds faster than your 5K pace, 30 seconds slower than your marathon pace, etc. Which made me wonder: what is my pace for those races? I have certainly run plenty of 5 and 10Ks, I should know my pace.

Here's what I was able to find from Google:
Date/RaceName/Distance (miles)/Pace
2002, Halloween Hustle, 3.1, 9.41
2002, Race to stop global warming, 5, 11.25
2003, Beach 2 Beacon, 6.2, 9.51
2003, James Joyce Ramble, 6.2, 9.54
2005, Ras na Eireann, 3.1, 10.56
2005, Turkey Trot, 3.5, 9.58
2006, Beach 2 Beacon, 6.2, 10.03
2006, James Joyce Ramble, 6.2, 10.04
2006, BAA Half marathon, 13.1, 10.26
2007, Westborough 5K, 3.1, 10.42
2007, Marathon Sports 5 Miler, 5, 10.27
2008, Westborough Police 10K, 6.1, 10.08
2008, Wobble Gobble, 3.1, 10.06

It looks like I'm right around 10 minute miles for 5K and 10Ks, on average. There are some exceptions and outliers on this list, some 5Ks were just a cold-turkey start with little training. There are several races missing from this list, but this is good enough. I'm annoyed that I didn't run a single race in 2009, especially when you consider I ran 2 in 2008, the first just 14 weeks after I'd had a baby!

Uphill climb

Ran a mile and then did 5 hill intervals for another mile. I was feeling it in my abs the last 2 intervals which is good. I definitely could have done another mile, but needed to get back home.

squeezed in

Quick mile on the treadmill before dinner. It was easy.

wanted to skip it

I think Friday runs should be done in the mornings, because I really really didn't want to run tonight. But I did a slow one before dinner.

A little pep

My sneakers finally feel good, so I think I'm getting the hang of it! Did a quick mile today while the baby was napping. I didn't even lose my breath. Which means its time to add some complexity.

Also- this is a milestone day! A whole week of running! Time to celebrate? Maybe at 30 days...

Slow and steady wins

Didn't really feel it, but did the mile anyway.

A little motivation

Here's me after finishing the BAA Half Marathon in 2006. I had an awesome run that beautiful day. I couldn't walk for the next 2 days, but it was so worth it. I wore my Finisher medal for 3 straight days.

Biggest Loser

Walked uphill for 2 miles while watching the premiere of the Biggest Loser. Ran 1 mile in 9:45. My right knee is a little achy, might have to rethink the inflexbility of the goal. We'll see tomorrow.

Good news! No leap year in 2010!

Quick

1 quick mile today, plus a few mins of warm up, cool down, and stretching. Jeff had soccer so I had to get back. Felt good.

Beat boredom with intervals

2.5 miles. Mile 1 easy, then intervals for the rest of the mileage. Ran 1 min at 5.7, 30 sec at 6.1, 30 sec at 6.5. Did that 4 times.

Keeping up with the Kardashians

Did 1 mile fast on the treadmill, then walked for a 1/2 mile, then ran at 9 min miles for 5 minutes while Khloe Kardashian got married. Long live the E! Channel.

Today felt much better. I drank more water yesterday and this morning, which helped. My shoes/feet are feeling better too. I warmed up on the elliptical for a mile so being warmed up make the faster speed on the treadmill more tolerable.

Day 1. SUCCESS!

Ran 1.5 miles today on the mill. I guess I coulda sucked it up and ran outside, it was warm enough (30's), but I ate terribly yesterday and drank last night and I wanted conditions where I could declare victory.
So. Day 1 down. 364 to go.

Note to self: figure out if this is a leap year.