I want this!!

Hydrapak Gel Bot Review & Giveaway via Running Diva Mom!!

Quick Update!

I haven't been posting lately, but I am still running :)  I am just running for fun now... through the holiday season then 1/2 marathon training will begin and I'll be back to blogging mode, full force!  Hope everyone has a very blessed holiday season...

Happy Running Ya'll!

3 Mile Run

My sister's wedding was this Saturday and needless to say we were all so crazy busy decorating and getting last minute things ready for the big day.... which basically means fast food, quick and easy convenience type foods and a whole lot of not exercising to boot.  Basically I totally slacked off all weekend.  But today, I did my 3 mile run and felt like I was back to normal and full of energy.  I can definitely tell a difference on the days I run vs. the days I am lazy.  I have found a form of exercise that I truly love to do, helps lose weight, build confidence, want to eat healthier, sleep better and will tone and firm you up... plus it's free.  I mean what the heck could be better?  lol  Anyway, back at it tomorrow... getting so excited and ready for the holidays!

Happy running ya'll!

New 1/2 Marathon Training Program.

Ok, so I forgot to blog about my run on Monday.... woops.  I didn't follow the B210K training program.  I am wanting to run the Gusher 1/2 marathon, so I am switching to a different training program soon that is more focused on endurance and training for longer races.  Monday's run was fabulous, and felt amazing....especially since I took off Friday, Saturday & Sunday after the Turkey Trot and all of the Thanksgiving holiday hoopla!  My run was 3 miles on the treadmill at home since it was sooo feakin' cold! BRRRR  I am also thinking about trying out the Nike + GPS app on my iPhone...  I just don't want it to put me over my 2GB a month data limit...anyone had that problem or is it good??  Thanks for any help!

Happy Running Ya'll!

2011 Turkey Trot 5K

Today was officially my 1st race!  I did the 2011 Turkey Trot 5K race and finished with a decent time.  I'm proud of myself!  My pace was about 10/min mile and I felt so great the whole time.  The energy from the crowd was awesome too.  I loved running with so many people and being around such excitement.  Now I see why runners get hooked on the competitiveness of the races.  It's just too fun.

 A big thanks to my sis and her fiance for coming out and supporting and taking all the pictures! :)

Walking to the Starting line!

I finished!  (Bad pic of me lol)

Now I am going to go have a Turkey Day feast with the family :)  Happy Thanksgiving everybody!

Happy Running :)

B210K Week 2 Day 3

First things first... I signed up for my very first race today and am so excited and a little bit nervous because I have no idea what to expect and I am running it alone!!  Yikes!  It's the Sea Rim Striders 21st annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving day morning!  Here's my 1st racing bib and technical t-shirt :)

Today I completed B210K week 2 day 3 after a total downpour and cool front came through.  The rain was finally over when I ventured out around 4:00, and it was cool and breezy... a nice day for a run in the park.  I am definitely addicted to the runner's high.  I am getting a little nervous about next week with the time/distance increase, but I'm sure I'll handle it better than I think.

I finally was able to get into the doctor yesterday to have my wrist looked at.  It has been bothering me for a week.  Really sore and achy and then after I weight lifted last Thursday it was sharp pains all through my thumb and wrist.  My dr was closed Friday so I just sucked it up and toughed it out through the weekend with the help of an ace bandage, extra strength bengay and a big bottle of Advil.  Found out it's tendonitis + a torn ligament... OUCH!  But it should start getting better now that I have this beautiful contraption.....  I miss weight lifting already.

Happy running ya'll!!

B210K Week 2 Day 2

Quick update.... apparently I was too lazy to blog yesterday when I actually completed my B210K week 2 day 2 run so here it is now.  My husband and I went to my aunt and uncle's for a day of wedding crafts, and grilling, but my arm is really messed up and I'm in quite a bit of pain.  I am not sure if I tore something, sprained or pulled something or if I have a hairline fracture in my right wrist.  I am going to the dr. tomorrow to get it checked out.  As of now, I'm just wearing and arm brace, using Bengay, and eating advil like candy.  Hopefully they can get me all fixed up tomorrow.

Anyway, needless to say, I wasn't much help on the craft front this weekend so I decided to go for a run in their neighborhood while everybody else glued, spray painted and glittered up everything for my sister's wedding.  I do have to say I felt better afterwards and had less pain.  In total I ran 45 minutes with a warm up and cool down walk and 1 minute walk intervals thrown in every 15 minutes.  So the total workout was 57 minutes.... not bad.

Hopefully my arm isn't hurt too badly, I miss weight training my upper body already.  Gotta finish up day 3 ASAP so I can start on week 3!!  Happy running everybody :)

I want this cute pink running hat...it has a zipper on the side to store your car key or gels when you run!  Plus it's made with a sweat wicking band on the inside!  Genius

B210K Week 2 Day 1

Holy Moly week 2 day 1 was much harder than week 1 workouts.  The workout consisted of 5 minute warm up walk, followed by 15 minute run intervals with 1 minute walks between each one (3 in total) and finished up with a 5 minute cool down.  The jump from 10 minute intervals to 15 minutes consecutive running was definitely challenging but at the end I felt even better than last week.  This week has basically added 15 minutes of running to my preexisting running routine.

I am loving all the new challenges as well as the changes I see in my body and my mind.  I am starting to feel like I can do whatever comes up next in the training and actually feel athletic.  My legs have more muscles than ever and even when I'm relaxed they are very prominent.... that's a huge motivator! lol  The rest of my body is falling into place too, even though it's taking longer, I know it will be worth every single sweat filled moment once I am where I want to be.  Plus the thought of finishing a marathon and crossing that finish line makes me even more ready to push my limits and my boundaries.  I can't wait until the day that I can call myself a marathoner.  Very few people even try to do one, much less accomplish it.  I just want to be in that group of people who know that running really is worth all the pain, sweat, blisters and challenges.

I am ready to get back to the gym for weights soon too... I have only been once this week for strength training and I feel like a total slacker in that department!  But.... my arms are finally starting to have some definition in them and my upper body is getting stronger.  I increased the weights by 10lbs Tuesday and plan to increase them again next week.  Time to step it up and get back in gear....  Hope everybody is having a wonderful week.

This is my new pair of Asics GT2160s (Blue, White and Grey) that are so supportive yet feel like you're running on a cloud!  Lightweight, supportive and so comfy...can't ask for more in a good running shoe.  Check out the reviews!!   My husband definitely knows the things that make me happy lol  Thank you D! :)

voted best in the world! in LOVE with them

Now if I can just get this cute pink and black pair, I'll be set! :) lol

B210K Week 1 Day 3

Today I finished week 1 day 3 of B210K and I feel so energized!!  I did my run inside on the treadmill because we went to pick up my mom in law to stay the night and visit so I didn't want to be outside and miss out on time with the family.  So I ran on the treadmill and visited with my family instead.  Anyway, it was a good run but I missed being outside.  I would much rather workout outside any day of the week.  I am running a little behind on my 10K training because I got sidetracked with my sister's bridal shower this past weekend.  So, tomorrow I will run week 2 day 1 of the program and then do days 2 & 3 sometime through the weekend so I can be back on track Monday for week 3.  I must stick with the schedule!  Well, I hope everyone has a great rest of the week.... Happy Hump Day people.

Happy Running Ya'll!! :)

B210K Week 1 Day 2

I completed week 1 day 2 of B210K yesterday but apparently I was too lazy to write the blog for it until today...  The workout consisted of a 5 minute warm up walk, 10 minute run with a 1 minute walk interval (repeat 4 more times) and finished up with a 5 minute cool down.  So it was another workout with a lot of runs!  I am really enjoying pushing my limit and pushing past the pain.  As soon as it's over, I know it was totally worth it.  I feel energized and happy.  The aches and pains are just part of running but it's never a let down... it's always worth it in the end.

Today, Tuesday, was just a weight training day for me because the weather was so bad.  I went to the gym to train and I just can't bring myself to run for a solid hour on a treadmill now that I am used to running outside in parks.  It's just too boring and I get way too stir crazy.  If it was only a 30 minute run, I could grit and bear the treadmill, but not a whole hour.  The weight training went well.  I have increased my weights for upper body by 10 pounds and my legs are insanely strong as always.  I love how weight training is helping prevent normal running injuries that happen.  I'm hoping to prevent as many as possible for as long as possible.  

This is a new product I have started using and LOVE!  I am not a huge fan of butter to start with, but I do like it on fresh baked rolls every once in awhile.  For the most part, I skip it though.  It's too greasy... it is right up there with fried food for me... just not a fan, never have been.  Always have and will order grilled chicken over fried.  But whenever I want a little butter... this is what I will use now!  It's made with olive oil and has way less saturated fat than the other real stuff lol.  Just wanted to pass it along!

B210K Week 1 Day 1

Today was my very first day of my new running program Bridge to 10K.  Week 1 Day 1 consisted of a 5 minute warm up walk followed by a 10 minute run interval and 1 minute walk interval (repeated 4 times) and finished up with a 5 minute cool down.  This was definitely more challenging than Couch to 5K was...  In total, I ran 50 minutes almost straight because 1 minute walk intervals go by extremely fast! Each week gets progressively longer just like the C25K program did.  The workouts vary from 50-75 minutes per day 3 days a week and you cross train or weight lift on the other other days and have 2 days of rest.  So basically Monday, Wednesday & Friday are my run days with Tuesdays and Thursdays reserved for weight training and I'll take weekends off for now.  Today is Wednesday so I will do day 2 and 3 on Thursday and Friday this week since I started late.  B210K is only 6 weeks long and culminates with running a 10K (6.2 miles).

Once B210K is finished, I will be doing the Hal Higdon 1/2 marathon training program which lasts 12 weeks and will finish the week of The Gusher Marathon with race day on that Saturday!  The timing worked out perfectly!  I can't be more excited about that.  I am really happy that I found a park with a beautiful trail that I really love to run.  It beats the treadmill any day... and helps me adjust to wind resistance and uneven paths.  After finishing 5K training last week, (9 weeks long) I had lost a total of 23 pounds and gains a ton of muscle tone!  I am looking forward to seeing how my body changes over the next 6 weeks of 10K training.

I am posting a picture of the delicious green smoothie that I posted the recipe for a couple blogs ago... so good and so healthy!

Here is another delicious post run healthy smoothie recipe that I tried today!  It's especially good for morning runs and an extra energy boost!  Here's the recipe, enjoy:

Crunchy Coffee Smoothie


4 ounces chilled coffee 
4 ounces fat-free milk 
1 banana (preferably frozen), sliced 
2 tablespoons whole almonds 
2 teaspoons natural cocoa powder


(161 calories, 23 g carbs, 5 g fiber, 3 g protein, and 8 g fat.)


Happy Running ya'll!

My LAST C25K Workout!!! (Week 9 Day 3)

I can NOT believe today is the last day of my Couch to 5K running program, but it is... it is over, I finished it!  I feel a little sad, a lot happy, overjoyed, excited, amazed and so proud of finishing the 9 weeks and bettering my health.  I also feel excited, antsy, nervous and ready to start my Bridge to 10K running program next week!  I can't wait for the new challenge which will last 6 weeks and then 1/2 marathon training will be for 12 weeks followed by The Gusher 1/2 Marathon race this spring!  All I can imagine are new and even better, more fit and healthy changes to my life and lifestyle.

As far as C25K goes, it is the absolute best thing I have ever done for myself.  This gave me a healthy way to get in shape and healthy physically and mentally.  It truly does become a way to meditate, zone out or de-stress.  It also makes you want to eat healthier....  It made me crave fruits, veggies and whole grains and I firmly believe it's because it's what your body need for fuel to run.  I can't imagine not running and hope to be able to do so injury free for many years to come.  Hopefully this will be my healthy example for my future children and something we can eventually do together and bond over.

For anyone considering an exercise program or change, I would definitely say do this.... other than a good pair of shoes, it's free and you can run anywhere, anytime.  What's better than that?  A healthy and affordable exercise program!  Thanks for all the support throughout this journey.  Now, on to the 10K!!  Bring it!

Happy Running everybody!

C25K: Week 9 Day 2

Week 9 Day 2 happened tonight at my new favorite park to run in.  It is really pretty and peaceful with plenty of trails and is very well maintained.  I am pretty sure I will be logging plenty of miles there.  Especially during the summertime when it gets really warm since it's covered with trees and shade.  It is definitely more of a challenge running outside with wind resistance and different temperatures everyday.  I am going to start training more outside for sure to have me more prepared, adjusted and adapted to running outside before my race in the spring.  Plus nature is so much more relaxing...feels like a form of meditation to me.  I love that my mind can wander and all my stress melts away.  I can't believe how far I have come in 9 weeks and I can't wait to keep moving forward and training hard.  My last C25K workout is this week!  Insane... only 1 more to go.

Here's a picture of the new running spot!

Happy Running Ya'll!

C25K: Week 9 Day 1

Day 1 of week 9 (the last week) of C25K was today and it's bittersweet...  I'm excited that I have almost reached my goal of completing this running program, but sad that it's almost over.  After this week, I will be moving on to half marathon training and am pretty nervous!  Today was a 5 minute warm up, 30 minutes consecutive running followed by a 5 minute cool down.  At the end of the run, I felt amazing and like I could keep going.  So, I left the treadmill and headed to the park with my sister (who started C25K today!) to run some more.  Tomorrow is a weight training day for me at the gym...  I am convinced that this is helping to strengthen my body and prevent running injuries.

As far as new food ideas, I finally put my Magic Bullet to good use and made the most delicious green smoothie ever!  I have noticed after longer runs, I am not in the mood to eat big meals, so this helps me get more fruits and veggies in my diet because even if i'm not hungry I can gulp it down real fast lol.  Here's the recipe:

1/2 C. 100% Carrot Juice
1 Kiwi, sliced
1/2 Banana (I like it frozen because the smoothie is colder)
1/2 Granny Smith Apple, Sliced
1 C. Fresh Spinach

Blend until smooth!!  I love how much fruit and veggies are in 1 glass of a "made at home" smoothie... so much better than the ones you buy somewhere that are just full of sugars and fruit juices which are basically just sugars.  You can also add a little vanilla yogurt or a teaspoon of raw honey to sweeten this up a little more if you need it.

The best and most natural Carrot Juice I have found.... tastes really fresh too:

C25K Week 8 Day 3

Just finished day 3 of week 8 this evening and I am stoked!!  I can't believe that next week is my final week on the couch to 5K program....  These past couple of months have gone by so fast.  I will be running 30 minutes straight next week and able to run an actual 5K!  How exciting is that?  Next up on my list is 1/2 marathon training for the spring, then I'll try my hand, err, legs at marathon training for next year. lol  I can say I am a runner now and that i really enjoy it!  I never thought I would be back at this point again after stopping running a couple years ago.  I am really happy that I stuck it out even in the beginning when it hurt so bad and all I wanted to do was quit.  The pain and aches are definitely worth it now.  It's so weird to go from huffing and puffing and feeling like I would pass out to being able to run 3 miles straight and talk while I do it.  Running is definitely a selfish sport because it's time for yourself... just you and your thoughts, but I figure, it's healthy "me time" and makes me a better person to be around.  I am a definite advocate for the C25K program especially for beginners, non-runners & people who are out of shape.  Lets tackle this last week!!  Happy running everybody! :)

C25K Week 8 Day 2

Today was day 2 of week 8 and I can NOT believe that I only have 4 workouts left in the C25K training program!  The past couple of months have flown by and I can see so many changes in my body now.  I definitely want to keep going and improving on my running skills.  I love this sport.  All you need is a good pair of running shoes and you're set.  What other sport can say that?  My endurance level is also so much better.  I can run 28 minutes as of now and not feel winded!  I felt miserable after 1 minute running intervals in the beginning, so yes, this program totally works.  My legs are amazing now too and i love that.  The only issue I am having is my legs start to feel tight in the last 5 minutes of my run interval even with stretching.... so I have to figure out a way to prevent this.  Other than that, i feel awesome and so energized!  The runner's high is definitely worth any pain or discomfort during the run.  Besides, pain is weakness leaving the body, right? :)  As soon as I finish up this program, I will be moving on to 1/2 marathon training and all of the new challenges that come along with that... excitement and nervousness.

One last thing.... my friend introduced me to this product.  I told my husband about it last night and of course he went out and bought me some.  <3 him!  Any girl with boobs knows, that your arms can get chaffed from rubbing against the seams of your sports bra.  This stuff is a lifesaver.  Just a tip for any fellow runners... good on arms, legs, feet (to prevent blisters), anywhere that has friction!

HAPPY RUNNING EVERYBODY!

C25K: Week 7 Day 3 AND Week 8 Day 1

 Well last Thursday, I went with my sister Kelli to the Primary school track to run.  I did week 7 day 3 of C25K outside because it is just so beautiful now and the weather has been all sorts of amazing!  Lets just say after predominately using the treadmill to train, running outside is much more difficult.  My entire body was sore afterwards, but it was so much better not starting at a wall or tv for the entire run also.  I need to start road running more often than using the treadmill to get used to it and adapt more for my upcoming races.

Today was week 8 day 1 and I completed my run at the gym because I wanted to work out with my hubby since we don't get to very often with his shift work schedule.  It was a good run.  A little more difficult because I haven't run in 3 days because of all the bachelorette hoopla this past weekend for my sister!  My runs are also getting longer now too.  It's a 5 minute warm up, 28 minutes consecutive running and then a 5 minute cool down.  Next week is my last week of couch to 5K training then I will be moving on to 1/2 marathon training!!!  I am so excited and nervous about this!  New challenges to come :)  Hoping to be ready for the Gusher 1/2 in the spring!

I have also gotten back on track with my nutrition and eating habits now too.... excluding the bachelorette weekend of course!  All I ate was crap food and drinks all weekend but today was a good eating day...  Whole wheat bagel & non fat cream cheese, low fat chocolate milk post work out recovery drink and lots of fruits and veggies.  Plus dinner was honey jalapeno smoked chicken wraps (whole wheat tortillas) with jalapeno ranch and steamed broccoli.  Even Damien enjoyed it and he is a PICKY eater!!   Hoping to make this week a great workout and eating week!  Happy running everybody...

Dinner :)

C25K: Week 7 Day 2

Week 7 day 2 was today and i feel AMAZING!!  The 25 minute run is getting much easier now.  I am not feeling winded anymore and my breathing is more controlled because the side stitches are gone! :)  After the run when the cool down started, I didn't want to stop running... i could have kept going...  Runner's High = Heaven! Strength training also went well today.  My legs are up to pressing 130lbs and my arms are still weaker but I am using 45 lbs on them now, so I am seeing improvement.  Still psyched about my toned legs! Ready for day 3.  Lets go!

C25K: Week 7 Day 1

We've moved on to week 7 of Couch to 5K and today was day 1!!  I feel great... energized :)  This entire week's training program consists of a 5 minute walking warm-up followed by 25 consecutive minutes of running and finally finishing up with 5 minutes of walking as the cool-down.  I never thought I would be able to run for 25 minutes without a break, but now I look forward to it.  I can't wait for the next few weeks to add more running time and cover more distance.  I am really hoping to be ready to run the Gusher 1/2 marathon in the spring with my girlfriends.  Talk about some fun to be had! :)  There are 9 weeks in the C25K training program, so I have almost completed it and then I will move on to 1/2 marathon training.  I can NOT wait!


Strength training is also going well.  My legs are ripped and so cut!  I am truly excited about this because I love muscular legs.  I am pretty sure it's because between the weights and the running they don't have a chance to stop moving and training.  My arms are getting more toned too, but they aren't where I would like them to be yet.  I don't want bulk extra crazy muscle man arm's like Madonna lol... more along the lines of sleek lean muscle like Jennifer Garner or Jenny McCarthy.  Well, just a few  more weeks, then onto 1/2 marathon training!!! exciting!  Thanks for all of the support along the way.

C25K Week 6 Days 2&3

Quick update... I just realized that I forgot to blog about days 2 & 3 of week 6 of the program!  They were completed this past Wednesday and Friday and they were amazing.  I am now up to 25 consecutive minutes of running at a time and I love it!!  Week 7 starts tomorrow and I will try to have better updates....

C25K: Week 6 Day 1

So, I finally got back on track today after taking over a week off for an anniversary trip to Galveston with the best husband ever and then another short trip to Houston to visit my sister in law and her family.  The week was so much fun and I wouldn't trade it for anything.  Great memories and good food :) lol... but I will tell you that it made a HUGE difference in my workout today.  I began week 6 of C25K today and my first long run was only an 8 minute interval and I felt great, but as soon as I started my 3 minute walk interval my legs felt extremely tight and heavy... almost like lead.  The rest of my run intervals... 5 & 8 minutes were really tough because my legs felt so weird, and I did stretch beforehand.  I'm hoping the rest of the week's training goes a little better.  I can definitely see how a week off from running makes it harder when you start back.  Next time I'm packing my running shoes and sports bra and hitting the seawall or hotel gym even if it's only for a 20 minute run.

The weight training went a little better than the run but it also felt harder after taking a week off.  I am feeling better after my workout though.  I always regret when I skip a workout but never regret it after I complete one.... even if I hate myself the whole time lol  Anyway, that was just a quick update...  Hoping I can figure out a way to prevent my legs from freaking out again....  Any tips?  Have a great week folks... and happy running :)

RIP Daddy- 12 years... too soon

I love and miss you everyday.  You were one of the greats... My only wish is that everyone else could have a Dad as inspirational, loving, caring and supportive as you were.  There are none better.  RIP Daddy.

Do not stand at my grave and weep,

I am not there; I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow,

I am the diamond glints on snow,

I am the sun on ripened grain,

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning’s hush

I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circling flight.

I am the soft starlight at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry,

I am not there; I did not die. 

-Mary Frye

Back on Track!

C25K Week 6 will begin tomorrow!!  Back from vacation and re-energized... Missed my runs way too much!

C25K: Week 5 Day 2

Day 2 of week 5 went much better than I anticipated.  The run intervals are now at 8 minutes a piece with a walk of 3 minutes in between.  I am feeling much more confident about my running and less like I "need" the walks to recover.  I can definitely see how this training program works and builds up endurance and strength.  Even after each of the running segments, I felt like I could still keep going.  I am not feeling as exhausted after my workouts either.  I am really starting to enjoy it.  Plus now that the runs are longer than 3-5 minutes, I am actually starting to feel a little bit more of the "runner's high" which I completely love!  My strength training is also going well.  I am wishing my arms would get toned up more quickly, but it'll all happen in good time.  My legs are solid muscle now and i LOVE that... they don't jiggle at all anymore lol... not even my inner thighs.  I am seriously excited about this.  Well, on to day 3 on Friday!  Wish me luck :)  Thanks for all the support!

C25K: Week 5 Day 1

Week 5 Day 1 of C25K began today...Monday September 27, 2011  The workout is a little harder than last week.... there are more 5 minute run intervals through the duration of the workout.  Definitely a challenge but much much much more endurance is being built up too!!  Not really anything new to post...just wanted to update this blog and let everyone know the progress is coming along slowly but surely!  Happy Running people :)

C25K: Week 4 Day 3

Day 3 of week 4 and I am feeling it...  I am definitely sore, but that just means more progress, right?  :)  I don't know why, but this is the second time in a row that I have gotten a stitch in my right side.  I need to work on more controlled breathing to prevent my diaphragm from freaking out on me like this....  This is now a top priority!  I am excited and a little nervous about next week because the running intervals will be even more intense, but ready for more progress!!  I'm beginning to wonder how my runs now on the treadmill will compare to my runs outside once it cools off a little more....

Weight training is going well.  My legs look amazing now and I am very happy about this....  My arms are a little slower to get into shape... probably because I have NEVER in my entire 29 years of life weight trained my arms.  So basically, I am using tiny amounts of weight like 20-30lbs on my arms compared to the 100lbs on my legs.  I know it will take longer to sculpt my arms but I am definitely hoping to see more progress at the end of the next month.  I am hoping to be able to increase the weight and the amount of reps soon.  I am determined to be the fittest and healthiest  I have ever been within the next year.  Thanks for everybody's support and encouragement! :)

C25K: Week 4 Day 2

Ok, so I am falling behind on this blog! lol...  Last week I pretty much was a slacker because I was so wrapped up in celebrating my husband's birthday and making a week of it.  Anyway, no more excuses this week!  I am redoing week 4 and Monday was day 1 while today, Tuesday, was day 2...  Weight training upper and lower body on Mon, Wed, Fri still.  I am now leg pressing and glute pressing 100 lbs!!  So excited about this.  My legs are so much stronger.  I can tell a huge difference since I started this running program.  I also think the weight training is helping to condition my legs and prevent any running injuries.  Today was the first day I  got a side stitch... and ugh, oh boy did it suck!  I am pretty sure it was because I didn't have as much water intake as I normally do and maybe was a little dehydrated.  I rushed to the gym instead of waiting until a little bit later in the day.  Other than that my progress is great and I am amazed at how well this program trains you physically as well as building up cardiovascular endurance!

C25K: Week 4 Day 1

Started Week 4 of C25K today and it is definitely pushing me farther than last week.  I'm averaging an 11 minute mile run time and a 14 minute mile walk time now... so I can tell my speed is getting quicker as well as my endurance getting better.  The weight training that I have been doing has also helped me build muscle and lose fat and prevent running injuries.  This is the training schedule this week:

Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then:

• Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
• Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds)
• Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)
• Walk 1/4 mile (or 2-1/2 minutes)
• Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
• Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds)
• Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)

Cool down for 5 minutes (walking)

It is getting more difficult each week, but I am also starting to tap into the runner's high and really enjoying every minute.  I'll be up to running 30-45 minutes straight in just a couple more weeks and that is exciting!!  The first thing I want to do when I get up is go to the gym... I am officially addicted :)  Hope you all have a very happy and healthy week!!

C25K: Week 3 Day 3

Decent workout today... I put in my 2 hours at the gym and feel great now!  So  much extra energy since I started working out and training again.  I completed C25K Week 3 Day 3 today and will move on to week 4 on Monday.  Because of the labor day holiday, I worked out Tues, Thurs and today (Fri) instead of my normal Mon, Wed, Fri routine.  I think today's workout was harder for me because I didn't have as much recovery time as usual with the back to back C25K training days this week.  I definitely like the Mon, Wed, Fri schedule much more.  I know next week will be even more of a challenge, but I am so looking forward to it...to pushing myself just a little further.  Happy Friday everybody! Hope you have a blessed weekend :)

C25K: Week 3 Day 2

Today was great... I got my workout in early afternoon and had major energy all day after that.  I'm still on week three so the run intervals vary between 1 and 1/2 minutes to 3 minutes at a time.  Next week they will be up to 5 minutes of straight running so I am a little nervous and excited all at the same time.  Today was also a weight training day for me and I feel sore... but the good kind of sore lol  I can tell a huge difference in the strength of my legs... I am up to 100lbs on leg presses and glute presses/hoist machine.  I can also tell a difference in how my body looks, especially my legs.  Longer, leaner and tighter.  I honestly am enjoying the changes and am completely addicted to the gym again.  My workouts usually last 2 hours with a 15 minute sauna session to relax afterwards.

I also ordered this awesome Key holder for when I run at the track at night...  I can put it around my wrist and not worry about my keys, plus it's way cute!!  My family member sells them if anyone needs one! :)

http://mobileguide.thirtyonegifts.com/Product/89

C25K: Week 3 Day 1 (Redo!)

Well today was day 1 of week 3 of C25K for me since I was a total slacker last week and on Labor Day....  I can tell a huge difference when I skip that long between runs.  It was definitely harder today after taking so much time off.  After my run, I weight trained extra hard... higher weights...3 sets of 10... to make up for missing last week.  I always regret the days I skip working out but I never regret my runs or workouts.... so when I totally do not feel like working out or hitting the gym, I tell myself "you will regret skipping it but you won't regret doing it once you're done."  Once the adrenaline kicks in and I hit my runner's high, I am golden!  One last quick thing before I end this short but sweet blog today....  I have found a new delicious dessert or treat that only has 100 calories and I am in love with it!  So far they come in 2 flavors and both are good:

Every single time I eat one, it instantly brings me back to family trips to Astroworld with my Dad, Mom and sisters....  gotta love nostalgia.

Back on Track!

So, this past week I had family come in from out of town to visit and stay with us and then Labor Day weekend was here and basically I blew off my gym routine.  I'm going to redo C25K week 3 this week and add more weight training to try to make up for my missed workouts and get back on schedule.  Ready to get my routine back on track, my energy level up and a step closer to my weight loss/exercise goals!!  So, here we go... lets get this week started.

C25K: Week 3 Day 1

C25K Week 3 Day 1 was a little tougher than last week's workouts.  The running intervals are now 3 minutes at a time and my endurance is being built up because of it.  I have upped my running speed as well so that is also helping to build endurance.  I am amazed at how much energy I have after my workouts and how I feel physically.  I have also increased my incline percent to 6% just to make the workouts a little more difficult.  After I finished C25K today I weight trained both upper and lower body for another hour.  I am trying to weight train on Mon, Wed & Fri when I do my C25K just so if I work out at home instead of going to the gym on Tues and Thurs I haven't missed a weight training session.  I am also excited to say that I have lost 8 pounds after the first 2 weeks of the C25K program!  I do not plan on finding them again either!! lol  Anyway, so far so good this week and hopefully more great workouts to come!

Take a look at the new present from my wonderful husband....  pretty excited to try it out this week too!

C25K: Week 2 Day 3

Today was Week 2 Day 3 of Couch to 5K.  I completed my run at the gym today on the treadmill... it's just too hot to run outside during the day right now.  I was starting to feel like my runs were becoming too easy so I opted to increase my running interval speed by 0.5 mph today to see if it made any difference.  Boy it did!!  The run was not nearly as easy and I felt challenged again.  I am looking forward to next week when the run times increase from 1.5 minutes to 3 minutes at a time.  I am also upping my incline on the treadmill to 3% to increase my strength and have a little more resistance training.

I also weight trained again today.  I did upper and lower body training.  Upper body training consisted of bicep curls, tricep extensions, lateral pulldowns, flys, and chest presses.  My lower body weight training was hip abduction/adduction, leg presses, leg curls/extensions, and leg/glute press.  After my session, I sat in the sauna for about 15 mins and thoroughly enjoyed it.  I can tell a definite difference in how sore my muscles get when I use the sauna verses when I skip it.  The few minutes I spend in there really help prevent aches and soreness.  Looking forward to next weeks  C25K!!

This is my new favorite dessert....  It's only 160 Calories and feels more like a splurge than just eating plain fruit (especially since I eat so much fruit everyday!) They have these in apple-cinnamon and apple-pear crisp flavors at Kroger for about $2.50!

C25K: Week 2 Day 2

Week 2 Day 2 of C25K was amazing!!  My endurance is getting so much better already...  at the end of the workout I still wanted to keep going.  I didn't feel winded or tired.  All I felt was energized and calm.  I swear running is my version of therapy.  My workouts go by so fast because it's just me, my iPod and my run and I zone out, clear my mind and just run.  There is nothing else that matters at that point in time and the workout just flies by.  Can't wait for day 3 on Friday but I am totally excited about starting week 3 next week and building my endurance up even more.

I also weight trained my arms today.  Truth is my upper body strength and tone is way worse than my lower body.  I have never enjoyed weight training my upper body but I know I need to do this to be the best runner I can be.  I need strength throughout my body not just my lower half.  So I did triceps extensions, lateral pulldowns, bicep curls, flys, and chest presses.  I didn't use much weight.... 20 lbs but did more reps... 3 sets of 10 of each.

I am loving my new issue of Runner's World Magazine right now too:

The new Simply Jif Peanut Butter is amazing... low sugar and low sodium.  I am loving Peanut Butter and Banana sandwiches as post workout/recovery fuel.

Running is real and relatively simple — but it ain’t easy.
~~Mark Will-Weber~~

C25K Week 2 Day 1 went better than expected!  The run times have started to increase... by 30 seconds this week and I am feeling the burn!  I have however noticed that my endurance is already improving and that I am not ready to quit after each run interval.  I am finding myself wishing the training session was longer than 30 minutes.  I also weight trained my legs today using the leg press, leg curl/extension, hip abductor machine, and legs-glute press.  I am trying to build up the muscles and tendons/ligaments in my legs and legs to prevent injuries.  My legs are burning in a good way now just a few hours later....  like they say, "No pain no gain."  Pretty excited to get back into the gym tomorrow and have another solid workout.  I will say that I sat in the sauna for about 15-20 minutes afterward and I believe this helps prevent my muscles from being as sore.  I may have to include this into my workout routine... even if it's only 10 minutes.

On a different note (but still dealing with health), those of you that know me, know my dad passed away my senior year of high school from a horrible disease called ALS (Lou Gherig's Disease).  We watched him suffer for almost 3 years... until he was paralyzed, couldn't talk or communicate, and was bed ridden... pretty much a perfect mind trapped in a body that wouldn't move because the muscles had frozen and deteriorated.  Just try to imagine a fully functioning mind in a non-working body.  Anyway, that is just a little background...  I read an article today about advances and a discovery in the fight against ALS and just wanted to share the information.  This makes my heart happy to know that there are some advances being made.  Hopefully fewer people will have to suffer in the future from this horrible disease.   Here's the link:

http://news.yahoo.com/researchers-theyve-found-common-cause-types-als-180606872.html

My Hero.

C25K: Week 1 Day 3

Quick update...  Today was Week 1 Day 3 of my C25K program and I am starting to feel a little more comfortable with it...  which I am sure means next week will be even harder and make me push myself a little further.  Ask me Monday if I regret saying it's starting to feel easier and I'm not as sore lol.  Anyway, today I tried the treadmill again because I was waiting on someone to come by the house and I didn't want to be out of pocket.  I still like being outdoors more.  It's more natural to me to be surrounded by nature instead of being stuck in a room on a treadmill.  But hey...  the treadmill has it's perks... I didn't have to skip my workout completely!  Anyway, I can tell my legs are stronger already and I can't wait to see how this program changes my mindset as well as my body and makes me a stronger person overall.  I'm sure by the time I am ready to run a 5K, I will be completely addicted again and will just want to shoot for a 10K the next go around, then a 1/2 marathon and of course eventually a marathon.  I'm starting to enjoy the comfort of a daily running routine.  I may hurt the entire time right now, but afterwards, I feel like a million bucks.  The only thing that I am not fond of about this program is the fact it's only a 3 day a week training program.  I am just filling in the other days with some strength training and a mile or two of intervals.  I think I will end up doing the program more than the 3 days a week it calls for.  So, to all of my fellow runners out there... what can I expect out of a real 5K.... I am nervous and excited to sign up for my first one in the next several months....

C25K: Week 1 Day 2

Tonight was Week 1 Day 2 of the C25K plan and it went well.  Unlike day 1, I decided to take my run outdoors instead of at the gym.  I enjoyed it much more too.  Being outside in nature instead of stuck on a treadmill is much more calming...natural... and enjoyable to me.  The only issue is how hot it is in Texas right now.  I either have to go early mornings or at night and me being a night owl... that is the only option for me.  I am not waking up early to exercise.  I know me and I will not stick to a morning routine.

The first few minutes were rough, but I stuck it out and now I feel amazing!!  I think I enjoyed it more even without the A/C like in the gym  lol which is a first for me for sure!  I am pretty excited to see how this 5K training program progresses from week to week and am so ready to see my progress and my endurance get stronger as I go.  I am hoping to actually enter my first 5K by the end of this year or early 2012.  

I also have started a new book that I am enjoying so far...  seems like a good and informative read too

I am also really enjoying my new arm band for my iPhone.  It keeps it from getting wet and it's fitted so the phone doesn't fall out.

Quote of the day:

"If you want to become the best runner you can be, start now.  Don't spend the rest of your life wondering if you can do it."
~~Priscilla Welch~~

Syked for Change :)

Well, this is my first "real" blog in awhile...  facebook doesn't count as a "real" blog in my book. :)  I will try my best to get into the habit of writing in here often and updating.

Those of you that know me, know that I used to be a huge runner, some might even say addicted and in love with it.  It truly was my "drug" of choice.  Everyday after work I would go to my favorite little park and pound out 7-10 miles (6 days a week) and then head home for the night.  I logged a minimum of 42 miles a week.  I remember how amazing I always felt during and after my runs.  I felt untouchable, stress free, calm, happy, and most importantly...healthy.  It was just me, the pavement, and my iPod which suited me perfectly fine, because truth is, I enjoy running alone.  My mind would be clear and the adrenaline rush was unbelievable.

The past 3 years, life happened and I ultimately stopped running.  I got married to the love of my life and began nesting and doing all of the things newlyweds do... eating out, cooking delicious but bad for you food and watching too much TV.  I have missed it so much though.  I go for awhile and not think about it and then I start realizing just how much i truly miss it.  So, I decided to recapture my love of running and my health for myself and my husband and eventually my future children.  I need to know that when I have kids a few years down the road, they will see a healthy, happy, strong and supportive mother who can really enjoy running after them!

So, this brings me to my training.  I just started Couch to 5K (C25K) this week and will be on Week 1 Day 2 tomorrow!  Day 1 went as expected.  I felt every ache and pain that beginning runners feel.  I also felt like I wanted to quit before I really started, but hey it takes at least 28 days to form a habit.  My entire body is sore, but it is the good soreness... the healthy soreness.  I remember the beginner aches, pains and mindset from my early 20s when I decided running was a part of my soul.  Now in my late 20s I will recapture that part of my life and keep it front and center.  I look forward to the challenge and know that it will get easier with time, just like everything else does.  Any support from other runners is welcomed :)