Wednesday- 119

Strength training!! Feeling nauseous when I began... and even more so during... but I pulled through. Yesterday I had the same thing going on. And I'll tell ya- the nausea has become my almost constant companion... I get 5-10 minutes reprieves throughout the day. Just long enough to fall asleep at night, then wake up at 2 am because of the abdominal distress. But I'll take what I can get.

So today I got up and made it through. Maybe I'll do it tomorrow... maybe I'll be too busy throwing up... sometimes I am better at controlling that than at other times. We'll just have to wait and see.

The point is - it was fun, I enjoyed it. Even though it feels harder than it used to. I enjoyed it. I enjoy it everytime.

Now? Well, I'll go eat something and begin the battle to keep it down; shower; and go on with my day :) Pregnancy is not for sissies. I know some women make it through with little or no discomfort at all... good for you! But most of us suffer through it, with periods of relief and periods of serious discomfort. It's always worth it. - As was the workout this morning.

Sweat on my friends! Sweat on!

Tuesday- 101

Yoga! Basic Poses! Ooooh sooooo NIIIIIICE! I thought if I didn't exercise I might go a bit batty. This was wonderful.

My body feels rejuvenated by all of the rest I have allowed it and I think I may be able to get in some regular exercising this week... I'm excited!

I loved everything in this episode except Triangle pose. It feels so unnatural for me. Dunno why. But I'm still doing it, if as seldom as possible ;)

So I am going to continue my day with this great feeling of energy and relaxation.

Sweat on!

Sunday/Monday

Sunday? nausea reigned supreme... ALLLL DAY LONG!

Monday- exhaustion keep me abed. And I made a decision. If I need to rest every extra minute I can for the next few weeks, I am not going to begrudge myself. This illness will pass. It will be short lived and when it does end I can get back to my program, knowing that I've taken care of myself.

So that said- from here on out I will post ONLY on days I actually am able to exercise. Able, meaning not vomiting my guts up or sleeping for what seems like forever!

Thanks for bearing with me, and for reading! Please keep up your own programs, be healthy! Keep up the great work!

Sweat on!

Exercise while Preggie?

You betcha, Baby !!! Lots of things come into play when talking about exercise. let alone when you talk about exercising while preggo. So let's get into it!

Firstly: Did you exercise BEFORE you conceived? This is very important! Yes, you can begin an exercise program while pg. But it would start out being VERY VERY low key! You can NOT start running 5 miles a day, if you NEVER ran before! If you are somewhat in shape- you can go ahead and begin a program in the 1st trimester. But you need to be careful about what you start out with. You're all intelligent women, be thoughtful and careful and I am sure you'll pick the right program for you.

If you have been exercising then you can continue with the program you've got. Now, unfortunately, is not the time to set up bigger goals for your body. Your body has a big enough goal as it is, building a baby. So stick with your workouts as it is. Listen to your body. And you'll be fine, and your baby will be fine too.

Exercise is a great way to minimize pregnancy complaints, infuse yourself with more energy, aid in keeping the weight gain on track, set you up for a better labor. An extra bonus is, that it will also help you knock off the weight after the baby is born.

Better labor? Yup! You're body will be strong. Strong abs, especially help out with bearing down. Strong legs help as well. Strength helps, let's just sum it up like that.

Secondly, Hydration! Big consideration to bear in mind! No matter what exercise you enjoy Drink Drink Drink! Don't worry about having to pause to pee either. You need as much water as you can consume. Right now, while running, I have to stop and find a bush along the way. That's okay with me. It's more comfortable for me to run w/ an empty bladder.

Thirdly: Eating... WOW! Do we preggies have to eat! And, ladies, ice cream and cookies, does not cut it! We need to find more and more and more ways to get those healthy calories in, what with the smells, the nausea, the taste bud changes, and the fatigue. Inventiveness is KEY here! Remember- cravings are good, so long as they are healthy cravings! If you crave dirt, naturally you won't fulfill that. A craving for one piece of dark chocolate, or even two, that's doable. But cravings for entire bags of candy, or cookies is not to be indulged! Please Note: if in a moment of weakness you give in... not all is lost! Just do better next time.

Fourthly: Energy Levels. This is one of the most important times you need to LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! If you're just too pooped, that's okay. Don't do the entire workout, cut it short. Do something less draining. Don't drive yourself into the ground! You'll be miserable. But again, if in a moment of weakness you give into the drive to do too much... it's OKAY! Just rest up, and do better next time!

Along with energy, do your best to get plenty of rest and sleep! Your body will not thank you if you don't.

So, summing up. Remember to take into consideration your fitness level, hydration, caloric intake, and your energy levels when you exercise and you'll be able to exercise safely while being an incubator. But hopefully, you were already doing all of that BEFORE you conceived anyway, so it will just be more of the same!

Weight Gaining Trap!

I fell into it AGAIN! Everyone has their own trap they fall into sometimes, or at regular intervals. What's mine? Pregnancy. Yup. I got knocked up... again. Yeah, buddy, this will be number 7.

For those interested, this is alittle off of the Exercise topic, we have 2 boys and 4 girls. The ages range from 12 yrs to 18 mths. I've heard it all before... yes we know how this happens. And maybe if we didn't enjoy it so much... you fill in the blank. Seriously though, we just want lots of kids.

Am I happy? YES Yes YES ! ! ! Am I the weensiest disappointed? Truthfully... yes. I won't make that half marathon goal this year now. Maybe in another 2 yrs, now with the 9 mths and recoop time. But definitely not this year. And I can't lose anymore weight now, and try to slip into some smaller jeans. *sigh*

Now why is pregnancy my weight trap? Because it is the only reason I ever gain weight. People complain about the diet yo-yo's. Diets have never been my problem. I don't diet. I change my diet from not as healthy to healthier as I learn more about it. But I always gain weight when I carry a baby, and something's seriously wrong if you don't. Then it takes me about yr, or more, to get rid of all of it post partum.

So here I am. I've fallen into my weight trap and I can't climb out... for 9 months!

Friday- FINALLY!

Yoga- yeah I did something today!!! Arm balancing poses! Whew! Whooo hooo too. Our eldest daughter participated. Too cute.

Then I ran about 3-4 miles. Yummy. Lots of stretching. But I am reminded that not all is lost while preggie. Even with the almost constant nausea. I am still capable! Well, so long as DH folds and puts away the laundry for me once in a while.

Thought for the day: Have patience with yourself, eventually it pays off.

Thursday-

Good Grief. First I needed rest and now the nausea has set in. It may take me a while to fgiure out the delicate balance... I'll be stashing some light snax next to the bed for morning relief. This morning it took so much effort to drag my sorry bum out of bed... because my stomach was on revolt.

That's okay... really. I'm almost convinced. I have a treadmill and we can renew our relationship this evening. And until I figure out this balance of tummy upset versus food I can work out in the afternoons instead of mornings. When I do figure out a way to get myself to laugh at the nausea and go run anyway, I'll enjoy it that much more, right? That's the theory anyway.

Note: I was going to keep this pregnancy to myself for a while... but my going away from the training program would have looked like failure... and that bugged me too much. So, I've come clean and confessed. I'll just have to deal with the consequences.

Thought for the day: Mind games... sometimes they are a good thing- especially when you are trying to forgive yourself for weaknesses. It's like painting our nail... why do we do it? Waste waste waste? right? Nope, it makes us feel good... just another mind game.

Wednesday-

REST! Slept in this morning... why? because my body at 5am said it was TIRED. So now that I've taken care of it, I should be up and unning in the morning!

Enjoy the day!

Tuesday- 107

I did 30 minutes of strength training... enough to get my arms in and do squats... but I am tired this morning. *sigh*

Oh well. Maybe I'll feel more energetic tomorrow.

Sweat on!

Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds - Monday

LSD- Long Slow Distance. You thought I was talking about something else, didn't you? This morning I did a nice slow recovery 5 miles. Enjoyed the fragrant Spring morning at 6 am. I interupted a breakfast. A herd of horses was nibbling at a hay bale when I jogged by, and they are just like people. Had to stop doing what they were doing and watch. Both times I passed. So I treated them just like people. I continued to sing along, waved, and even said "Hi!".

My mosquito bitten ankles itched mildly every step of the way... but after my shower I painted them with clear finger nail polish again and Ahhhhhh. Relief. Yes, after they are scratched open fingernail polish is just the thing to keep you from permenently scarring yourself.

My hippo dragged a bit, but as this was an LSD run, it was just fine. No walking for me. I have conquered on of my monster hills, so I don't think I'll name it... but the second? It's called : SKUNK. Cuz it's a stinker! Focused on posture going up this evil thing. Nice a slow.

I would like to revisit something... it was pointed out to me that 5K and 10K were "really far" this weekend. I don't agree... BUT for those of you who feel this way I have a few things to say, or rather repeat. I am by no means a string bean. I am a very typical female. My thighs rub together, I've got the dreaded muffin top of many moms, I'm well endowed, and I have a J-Lo-ish bum. I'm short, 5 foot 1 inch... It's so sad I know the exact figure. And I started this whole running thing with a walk/run postpartum. I found 1 mile to be a chore. Monthes later, of what DH calls self torture, I can enjoy a 6 and even an 8 mile run with enthusiasm.

I do some strength training, aerobics, and anaerobics. I play with our kids, work with the animals, labor along side DH and love life more and more as I become a healthier person.

My thought for the Day is: 1 miles is far, only if you think it is. I don't say to myself- I'm going to run 6 miles today, I say I'm going to go for 3 and see how I feel as I go. Then at each spot/hill/whathaveyou I remind myself that I just need to go past the next telephone poll, or mailbox, or ten more feet up this blasted hill and then I can recover. I'm slow. I'm not super fit. But I'm in love, so I run. Find something you can love. Fall in love and then it will never seem like an impossibility again.

Sunday ! - 125

Restorative! Mmmmmmmm. Yum! I LOVE these restorative sessions. Don't you?

In this episode there are a few twists, one of which (the one with the strap) was challenging but worth it. And these was the finger release, always nice. Then we did the side stretches, which my sides sorely needed! And I mean SORELY! Yoga does a wonderful job of showing you which side is weaker or tighter than the other. For some things it was my right, even though I am right handed, for other poses it was my left.

Wonderful session! I hope you enjoy Restorative Yoga sometimes too! It's fantstic!

Thought for the Day: Sunday is the day to refill one's cup in many ways. Drink up and enjoy!

5K 10K

I ran my 1st PUBLIC run this morning! I registered for the 5K... but I ran the 10K! Go me! Go Me! GO ME!

My times... nothing to brag about- 5K : 37:11
10K- 1:17:change. My brain couldn't register that many numbers.

I met my friend there, we ran separately. But she stayed to watch me finish, isn't she sweet. Another friend showed up and cheered! So cool. It never occur ed to me that it might be nice to have cheerleaders... but it was. Borderline embarrassing, but I got over it quick.

So I did it. I want to do it again tomorrow! I am going to run every 5K, 10K I can locally this summer. I am stoked! It was so much fun. I didn't expect it to be fun at all. But somewhere along the way I just settled into my music and sang/danced along and just ignored the group thing. I was waved at and waved back... and the entire PUBLIC deal I was nervous about wasn't a deal at all. It was FUN! So I HAVE to do it again!

The run itself? Oh, it was interesting to watch most people take off like a shot, then see them walk later, and pass them while I maintain my snail-like jog. I'm glad I held myself back though - I didn't need to walk at ALL! So proud of myself. Lately I've felt heavier... and running with an (even if it's just in my head) heavier hippo draggin along in the back is a bit of a chore. But my hippo pounded the pavement all the way.

Congratulations to my hippo and me!

Deni Preston's Total Body Workout!

I have now gone through all exercise episodes on this 7 disc season. This is my evaluation of the season!

I posted about all the ones I did during my exercise sessions. The ones I did not post about? Those were the ones with the Stability ball, and the step... because, don't get mad, Deni!- I didn't think I'd like them. And... ummmm... I didn't.

The one with the big ball, well I don't have one, and using a chair was very annoying when I tried it. That was 109 and I don't do it.

The Step sessions? My Linkin Log box is higher than the step used on the program and Deni get into pretty complex patterns and with my box I didn't keep up and got frustrated. 104, 112, 127 and I don't do them either.

That's about 4 out of 24 episodes I didn't like and don't plan on repeating. Although if I ever get a stability ball, or step, I will try them again. So that leaves me with 20 other episodes I WILL repeat, several of which I have many times already.

The ones I LOVE are the Strength Training, Kick Boxing, Basic Flow, and Restorative sessions! I love the challenge of the kick box and strength training, the warmth of basic flow, and the powers of the restorative yoga! Those are my favs, but I have to say I like the in between ones as well, and will revisit them too.


This Season 1 was $25 and change for shipping. I have to say that it was worth the price. I will on occasion go onto BYU TV and do some new routines with Deni Preston and her gang of getinshapers! I am thrilled with my purchase months afterwards! AND I am looking forward to the release of season 2.


Thank you Deni and your team! This is a terrific product! I have become a HUGE fan! I would, and have, suggest this program to anyone who wanted to try yoga, aerobics, a little of everything, or switch up their work out. I love how she helps us to know how to up the energy if we feel powerful that day, or lower the difficulty on a weaker day. It's a great way to keep your routine fun and new.

Friday - 119

A few days ago I did Strength training, but it was a different episode. This is the one with the medi-ball. Always a fun one.

I wanted to run yesterday morning, but DH had to be at work SUPER early, so that plan got canned. I am not running today... why? 1- No time and 2- I'm running my first run in the morning. BUT_ if I find the time this evening I may take a short jog or walk a while. I'll be nervous enough in the morning as it is.

Thanks for reading! Sweat on!

Thursday- 121

Sun Salutations. After all of the arm and back work yesterday downward facing dog became quite a chore. So when it got to be too much I did half down dog. During the partner bit of the episode, the three yr old helped a little :). Fun. But for the rest I did balancing poses.

I enjoyed it. The sun rose as I worked. Feeling the sun rise as I do yoga always lifts me somehow. I'm glad our home has so many windows.

Wednesday Continued...

Logged in an hour on the treadmill. Nice.

Stretching. Lot os stretching. I always do Pigeon after a run, as it keeps my legs from aching the next day. And I went into the FULL position! Wooo hoooo. I thought it was sooo cool, I showed DH. He said it looked painful. But it wasn't, which was why I was so thrilled. It just felt GOOOOOOOOOD. So maybe the pics not me, but it could be.

So cool. I love my improvements. Every single tiny little one.

Wednesday-

Strength training. YAY! Those AWFUL leg lifts are getting soooooo much easier! I did 20 reps of each position of those- and it didn't feel like I was in complete agony! My legs MUST be getting stronger. SWEEEEEET! I did a little extra ab works as well. I like those side lifts Deni showed us in another episode, so I add those whenever. I am still trying to figure out how to breathe easily through them.

Lots of Squats and calf work. Which is FINE! I don't need bulkier legs, but stronger is always a plus.

Don't worry though. I'll be on my treadmill this evening. I figure on going a slow 5 miles or so. I may go less, we'll see.

Thought for the Day: Listen to your body.. and mine right now says- SHOWER! ICK!

Sweat on!

Tuesday-

3 miles. A slow 3 miles. But that's okay. I feel good. That's what matters.

Thought for the Day: Comfort never brought growth. Push a little beyond the comfort zone... There you will find growth!

Sweat on!

5 K

Forgot to mention... I'm running my first public 5 K this Saturday! Yip Yip Yippie!

Just had to say it once :)

Monday-

After 3 days of illness I did YOGA this morning! I was gonna go running - but it was raining AND I didn't feel that it would be best for my body. So - - - Restorative! Mmmmmmmmmm. Yummy. Although pigeon, screaming and all of the other variations almost made me cry. But I did it! And it was worth it! Feel so much better. The picture? Screaming Pigeon, I can't go quite that deep yet- almost, but not yet... so, obviously, that's not me. But she makes it look so simple, doesn't she? Try it- but I'd advise just holding the back ankle, and reaching the front hand forward, not going for the full depth the first try.

Tomorrow? Run run run. How far? Well, I figure 3 -4 miles, If I'm feeling up to it. Don't want to over do it, so not too far. But If in the morning I only feel energetic enough for 2 miles, I'll be satisfied with that as well. Gotta listen to my body, honor it's needs. If I push too hard I'll feel terrible again. So, not gonna do that!

Thought for the day: Forgive your limitations, enjoy your abilities, and strengthen your weaknesses!

Friday-

Sick Day. I'm calling in sick today, everyone. I've been sick since 5 am. I guess the internal clock works in more than one way. I just want to curl up under the covers and drift into oblivion...

Thursday Continued...

Estimated 5 mile run this evening. Maybe a tad over, perhaps a tad under. But I'm counting it as my long run for the week. Next week my schedule says my long run is 6 miles. I'm definitely doing it in the morning! The heat and humidity is aweful right now.

I stopped at the bridge, can you picture a bridge on a dirt road?, to stretch my calves which were tensing up on me. Then I walked up the Brute, at the top of which I had a nice little play time with some Jack Russels. Next time she has a litter, I'm gonna have to ask for one.

The view was terrific. I focused on keeping my posture correct on the hills. The flock of turkeys was fun to watch. I startled a deer. Then on the way back a deer startled me. She was 15 feet from me, after the initial jump, just staring. Beautiful. I think she had a fawn in the bush I ran next to which may have been why she bounced away till I passed. Because after I passed, she bounced back.

It was a euphoric run. Just lovely.

Thursday- 119

Strength Training! WHew! Kicked my butt too. But felt great! I did extra arms, and those ab workout are soooooo hard, but soooo worth it !

The plan is to run this evening when it's cooled off, after hubby gets home... because we had a late night watching AVATAR. Red Box rental. AVATAR. Worth the time. But that meant I couldn't drag myself out of bed at 5 am. So I'll run this evening. YAY!

I'm supposed to run 5 miles today, according to the schedule... I'm behind on my mileage this week... so I doubt I'll make 20 for the week by Saturday. Especially since running Sat morning is out. Hubby will be on a father/son camp out. I can go on the treadmill, the only draw back is - it would take FOREVER. I'm not gonna sweat it though. Next week is another week.

Thought for the Day: Forgive yourself for being human!

Wednesday Continued...

Extra mileage in my day. Met hubby at the park after work. While he played with the kids I went for a quick 1.36 miles. At least that's what the sign said, red route - 1.36 miles. So Total for the day : 5.36 miles. Cool.

Why did I run that last 1.36 miles? Well, I've never run in town before, and I have never run on such a flat surface before! I live around hills, and MONSTER Hills. They are such monsters I'm going to start naming them. That awful, terrible you need 4 wheel drive after a drizzle to go up is called Brute.

Anyway, in town run - It didn't take hardly any time at all. But I have to say, "I Hate running in the afternoon during the summertime". I got hot quickly, my mouth became parched quickly, not the most comfortable run despite the flat land. So I ran around people. A black labbish thing tried to either rub against me or run me off the path. I agilely sidestepped the walking rug. I felt a little self conscious at the start, but even more so when it came time to stretch. Now, I don't know about you, but I do not mess around with stretching. I NEVER skip it! But I felt a little stupid at the park stretching in front of these other chics who were sitting around watching their kids and/or reading/chatting.

While we picnicked I did see an older gentlemen hit the pavement. And before I began I saw a tiny little chica running along too. So I was the only chunky monkey? So what? I was also the only one with 6 kids. I'm sure there are a dozen other ways in which I was unique this afternoon. But in the end we're all just people, right? Maybe no one thought I was cool. If I'm lucky no one noticed at all. Doesn't really matter though. I know I'm cool.

Once I got going it didn't matter. I just kept thinking, "I'd rather eat asphalt that be seen walking". I walk with my family- totally cool with it. But on my own? I run. So I'd laugh at myself and suddenly it didn't matter if anyone else was there. I ran. I enjoyed it, parched mouth and all.

1 Question answered today. Can I run in public? Yup. Good to know.

Wednesday-

I got up at 5:30 am as promised :) I ran 4 miles. For some reason it was a tough 4 miles. But it was up those two monster hills. And I DID do it! YAY! It feels so good to get to the top of them.

My hubby thinks I'm nutz. I told him last night, yeah - it might be insane. He says I must like pain. I don't really. I just LOVE what comes after the pain. Growth! Strength! Stamina! Yeah, Baby! I do not know a single other person who runs for fun or enjoyment. But that's okay. I've always been a little left of center, I don't mind. As I puffed along this morning I danced and sang along to my MP3 player, whoohoooed at the top of my hills, and just kept chugga luggin' along. I don't care how long it takes, I don't care how sweaty I got in that humidity, I just like to go go go. It's fun. It's a stress release. It's peaceful. Two deer stared at me for quite some time this morning trying to figure me out. It took me a while to get where they were, and that's okay by me.

LSD- Long SLOW distance. I'm down with that. I'm diggin it.

I will admit that when I stop the sweat starts to congeal on my skin, and my muscles turn jelly-ish. That's what showers and stretching are for.

Thought for the Day: Do what feels good! Move! Yummy.

Sunday/Monday/Tuesday

Saturday Continued - I ran 4 miles. Concurred 2, yes TWO monster hills ! WHOO HOOO! I know the distance isn't impressive, but, dude, those hill ARE! Go me Go me!

Sunday - went camping! Did a little yoga. Ankle sore. Ace bandage and ICE!

Monday- still camping. Ankle still a little sore. When we got home I did get on the treadmill, and also did some arm weights. But I was fatigued so I didn't do much.

Tuesday- TIRED! Stayed in bed this rainy morning. But I am feeling more rested. Come tomorrow morning I will be back on the road running.

Results VI

I lost 2 and a half inches! and 2 lbs. Some people fluctuate their weight, but I think this may be because they don't weigh themselves the same way. I weigh myself after I work out and am warm, before I shower, I'm well hydrated, and usually after a bowel movement (it just happens that way, if that's too TMI pretend you didn't read that part). But you'd be amazed at how much junk you carry around in your intestines. Exercise will regulate that too, if that's a concern of yours.

So I lost a few inches in 3 weeks, and 2 lbs. However those 2 lbs I gained over a month ago, so should I really count them? Sure. I think I gained muscle and lost fat, so they count. My butt, thighs, calves are all more compact. I like my calves right now. My bum's not bad, but my thighs? Let's not go there and instead focus on the positives. I can ALMOST see some muscle definition in my arms. Woot Woot. My waist hasn't gotten any smaller, but I like it for now. I like my ankles a lot. Funny, huh? I am probably the only one who looks at my ankles.

I am fitting into a smaller size jean comfortably. And I picked up a couple of super cute tees at a garage sale this week. One's a brown Grateful Dead T, another hot pink with horses, and the one I'm wearing now light blue has a pic of a little girl praying on it saying, "Jesus, Please Holla back." Apparently the little girl doesn't realize she needs to listen quietly for the still small voice, Hee Hee. So congrats to me Tees, because most of my other shirts are getting pretty baggy. How cool is it that I get to pack things away or get rid of them because they are too BIG? So cool!

"Do you best and leave the rest to fortu-ocity!"

Calorie Counting - a Thing of the Past

I was counting calories, doing my best to make every one count. Choosing complex carbs over simple, choosing healthier snax. Now that I am running 20 + miles a week, I have abandoned writing down what I eat and adding up the calories.

I have learned to trust my body. It tells me when it's full, in need of fuel, tired, thirsty, and energetic. I am learning to feed these needs, and doing my best to make wise food choices. I drink TONS of water now! During workouts, after, before, all the time! My urine is clear all the time, I know TMI, but I'm trying to illustrate a point here. I'm comfortable with that much water - and UNcomfortable w/o it.

I used to not eat anything for breakfast. Food in the morning made me feel nauseous. Now I eat BIG breakfasts. For example yesterday morning I ate half a packet of oatmeal w/ a tsp of molasses and 1/2 a cup of cottage cheese w/ a slice of pineapple. I was full. This morning I ate the entire packet of oatmeal, the cottage cheese w/fruit, AND 6 ozs of yogurt. After the oatmeal was gone, 20 minutes later I was still hungry. So I ate again. The yogurt was enough. These breakfasts are huge compared to what I used to not eat. During the rest of the day I tend to pick here and there: an apple, a few carrots, handful of nuts, yogurt with an oatmeal cookie for lunch (yesterday), salad, etc. I've noticed a need for more protein in my diet as well. SO I sneak in nuts and dairy where I can. Yes, I do give in and eat cake sometimes. The occasional brownie. The piece of chocolate yesterday... and the day before. I don't believe in deprivation, to the point of madness... and let's face it - NEVER eating chocolate is MADNESS! Now when I eat the naughty items I don't feel the guilt that usually comes with them. I feel indulged instead. A little self indulgence is okay.

The point is, I am learning how to respond appropriately to my body's signals without being overly concerned with how many or how much. I'm running pretty regularly now and increasing my distance. I'll burn it off.

Another thing that seems to have changed is - when I want down time, instead of closeting myself away with a book, or a bubble bath, I find myself craving an extra run, an hour of yoga, or a 15 minute nap. After the run, yoga, or the power nap I feel great! Yesterday is an excellent example. I'll need to do something again today I know it! It's rainy, the kids are indoors, I may run in the rain today, just for some time to think without a little person hangin on my leg.

Don't get me wrong, I love everysingle one of the little monsters. But sometimes time off is best. Think about it. EVERY OTHER JOB IN THE WORLD GETS TIME OFF! Even in jail you can get time off for good behavior! I'm a mom 24/7, 8 days a week. To keep my sanity intact I need time off. A trip to the bathroom ALONE! A few hours where someone ELSE changes the diapers. You're moms out there! You know what I'm saying.

So these are things that have changed, are changing, and I have noticed them. I have not forced any of these changes. I have observed my body's needs and done my best to fulfill them healthfully.

Saturday 126 - and Training and books!

Hip Opening emphasis. There was triangle (ick), warrior, a tree-like pose, and something else... but honestly, I thought there would be a few more hip opening poses. We did lots of forward folds. I don't know much about yoga- maybe some of these other poses also helped open up the hips in a more subtle manner. But it wasn't what I expected.

However, I did enjoy it! Just because I expected something different, doesn't mean I won't repeat it!

I was tired this morning. Probably due to the rain and thunder. It just make me feel like staying in bed all day. So I went into child' pose a few times to rest. And I stayed in shavasana (that resting pose) for a long while. Maybe 15 minutes. Very nice.

We're going camping tonight. I am looking forward to a different run in the morning. My training schedule says 3 miles. But it also said 4 for yesterday, and I bet altogether I went 7 or 8. Last night's run was the best I've had all week. I am wondering if I am starting off the training a little too easy peasy. Maybe I need to up the intesity and jump ahead a week or two. Or maybe consider another schedule. I seem happier with a schedule that allows me to run more often that the one I'm on now. Not 7 days a week, but instead of having 3 days of rest, maybe 2 would suit me better. I found a runner's book in the library I've been reading. I read a lot folks.

In this book it talks about Fartleks (Swiss term for speed work), which is something I've been doing naturally. Neat, huh? It talks about LSD, not the drug! LSD is a term used by runners to describe people who enjoy the run for running's sake. They enjoy just getting out there and going. They don't need the races, or the motivation of staying fit. They just like to run. Which I think may apply to me as well. Not that I'm the carbon copy of a great runner. I'm a chunky chica who just likes to go go go. Anyway, in this book it gives acouple of sample training schedules for a marathon. I'm thinking of adapting the beginner's schedule to suit my half marathon goals. It allows for more distance and 2 days of rest. Thinking Thinking. I'll think some more about it.

I've read about yoga. I've read about weight lifting - as a matter of a fact I own a copy of Selene Yeager's Perfectly Fit. I love her book. For several reasons. 1- She looks like me. No, I am not that cute. Her build is like me, though she may be taller, as most people are. I can look at her and say to myself, that's a body I can attain. I can do that. 2- Simple instructions make each exercise easy. 3- None of the exercises are too complicated. Like with yoga- I have to SEE someone assume the poses so I know how to get into and out of them. These exercises aren't like that. They are all really simplistic. Good book. I am waiting for my Complete Women's Book of Running. I've read the Complete Book of Running, great reference. But as I am a woman, I thought this one might suit me even better. I have not yet found a yoga book I even remotely like. Not that I NEED one. My dvds are great. I'd just like to be more familiar with the terms and the benefits of each pose. So if you know of any, share the title!

Thought for the Day: Do some movement this weekend that feels good!

Friday Conitnued - Mirror Moment

I just had a great run! I didn't time it, or measure it... I even tried a new route with a KILLER hill. I've been running on the roads. But tonight I felt like going a new direction. There's a gravel road down the road a bit. So that's where I headed. I saw a deer on the way.

At the first mailbox there is a MONSTER hill. You'd need four-wheel drive after a drizzle to get back up this thing. As I ran down I reminded myself, "If ya run down ya gotta run back up it, dingbat!". At the bottom of the hill off to the left is a dirt road. No gravel. So I took a left. I've never been down these roads.

Down the dirt road I found plants I've never seen before, deer tracks, fox and coyote tracks, and wild turkeys. 3 of them. They lit off when they saw me coming, but left me some nice tracks. Did you know wild turkeys have some BIG feet? The track was half the size of my size 8 shoe.
Anyway-I ran down that way for a while. The road is really long. Don't where it goes yet, or if it goes anywhere. But eventually I turned around and came back.

It was lovely on the way back as well. Then came that hill. I walked. There was no way I could have even pretended to jog up that hill.

New route? I'm gonna go back first chance with a truck and measure it out. I'm gonna run that till that hill is a piece of cake. If I can run that one the other will be a breeze. Especially since I can already jog up the other one. Nice new scenery and everything. I'll have to post pics. It's nice.

Stretched and now I'm ready for a shower. But first- I had a mirror moment. What's that? Oh you've had many I'm sure. We all have. That moment when we look in the mirror and mentally scream- What the HECK? That can NOT be me! In my head is a picture of me... and that reflection does not match. It's not an unreasonable picture either. I'm just not there yet.. so I will just keep pluggin along till I get there. It's good to have moments where we remember all the padding we need to get rid of. Let's not dwell on it. But a little reminder now and then is good.

And yes, that run made me feel all better! I love endorphins and stress relief of running!

I measured myself too- I'll post the result in the morning! Cheers!

Friday Continued--

Feeling premenstruallyrustrated by events of the day and weekend... so I gave into a craving and ate chocolate... which will go oh so well with the birthday cake I ate yesterday at a kid's party! I only crave this junk when I'm hormonal! Darn it! And yes, eating it made me feel better in one way... but didn't alleviate the irritable mood. So...? What now??

I'm feelin unfocused, annoyed, and just stressed out. I'm going to move my treadmill (dvd player busted a couple of weeks ago) to a room where I can at least watch or listen to something. Then I'm going to do some yoga to center myself, and then run! I dunno how far. Tomorrow is a rest day, so if I run too far, it won't make any difference as tomorrow was going to be a cross training day... still is.

So away I go to do some yoga and treadmill. If hubby ever makes it home from work I may just go outside and run again... maybe it'll feel better to imagine running away from my irritation (not the kids or family- just junk). Note- when I am irritaed or angry I am the freakin energizer bunny. Nothing can put me to sleep or help me wind down except expelling even more energey. Weird huh?

Mantra-
"irritaion go away.
My frustration fly.
happy fuzzies welcome here.
Irritation DIE!" I know, not so clever, but whatever works, right?

Friday- Day 6 Training

4 miles, Baby. Oh yeah. Very easy week. But it worked out well what with the lack of sleep and I think this weekend of the beginning of next I'm gonna get my period. Next week should prove fairly easy as well. Only doing 5 miles at the end of the week, and for the rest of the week 4 and 3. Last week and the week before I was pushing a LOT harder. SO I guess I'll continue to enjoy the slow start.

Oh and after the run I did lots of arm weights. Darn wings!

Day 6 Week 1 Complete! Yeah!

Sweat on!

SHOES ! ! ! !

I posted a long while back that for running you need a good shoe. Well, what I had was good enough at the time. It was affordable and I wasn't running 20 + miles a week. But now, in taking my own advice, and the advise of so many other runners, and I have a runner blog list the length of my arm that I follow!- I got new shoes!

Let me say thay again - I have new running shoes! I have REAL running shoes! There is actually a real shoe store out here in the middle of nowhere Missouri. And the gentleman who runs the store knows his shoes! He's a serious shoe guy. He asked if I was a geek runner... meaning that I would run no matter the weather to get my miles in. I confessed that I wasn't and used the other day's weather to prove it. But I did share that I was training for a half marathon... whether or not that made me a "real runner" I don't know. I got to thinking about it... do I consider myself a "real runner"? Answer: Nah. Real runners are those super fit people who have next to no meat on their bones and have thos running shirts and skirts. YEs, there are women who run in those skirts. Of course there's nothing to their legs, let alone anything to be ashamed to show off.

So, what am I? I dunno. A wannabe runner? I mean what exactly are the qualifications? ANd heck, what difference does it make? I love to run, so I do. Isn't THAT the point?

Anyway, back to the shoes!!! I tried a few pairs on. One pair, almost like the ones I brought home, had an arch the dug into my foot, and it was hard. Another pair were like a quarter size too big, and my feet were slipping around. Bu the ones I bought? They are darn near orgasmic! Go ahead and laugh. It's true! They not only support my feet but caress them as I move. I think I'm beginning to understand why runners freak out about shoes.

Gel! Who knew they put gel into shoes? So smart! The shoelaces are even at an angle, so as to not dig into my foot when pushing off the ground. So clever! They're ugly. But I think all sneakers are ugly. Mine even have purple on them. Purple? Oh so NOT my favorite color. But hey- it doesn't matter.

I have awesome shoes! If anyone is interested I got asics. I'm in love!

Eating Habits-

Mine change... often. This week breakfast has been 1/2 cup cottage cheese w/ a slice of pineapple (canned), with a package of oatmeal, tsp of molasses, with skim milk. I am going the vegetarian route. Not really on purpose. But the meat make my stomach feel heavy. And running with e heavy stomach is uncomfortable.

I have gone veggie before for periods of time... just because it felt good at the time. Then I would go back into meats. I have had one piece of poultry this week. Oh, and not vegan. I have a dairy cow, who is going to calf soon (thank you friends!) , and a dairy goat, and a small flock of chickens. Vegan just isn't realistic for me, as the eggs are free and Tofu (or whatever - and don't get me wrong I make a mean tofu stir fry) is expensive. Just veggie, not vegan. I did eat fish last week. Not as tasty as I had anticipated, but I'm the one who cooked it, so I can only blame myself.

Anyway, what I'm trying to say is: I think I may be giving up meat for a while. Red meat certainly. So what's with the cottage cheese and molasses? I'm trying to get all my nutrients and vitamins in. Molasses is high in iron too! Which can be depleted in women fairly quickly and leave us feeling sluggish and fatigued. Cottage cheese? Calcium, obviously, but also protein! And yes, I take calcium pills too, but not all of the pill is assimilated into the body- the sad side of most pills. Pineapple? Vit C. Never can have too much! Oatmeal? Fiber and other good stuff, including more calcium from the milk. And yeah- if the oats are clean they are gluten free. Though there are many GF people, like our second daughter, who cannot tolerate oats either.

I don't follow any plan- it's like against my nature or something. If I have rules, I break them. Can't help it, just happens. I don't follow any ideal diet out of a book or anything. It's all trial and error for me.

So things are a-changin'. But those of you who know me, know that changing is something I constantly do. And yet I manage to be predictable (according to hubby)... How DO I do that?

Though of Diet? D o you feel good? Do you feel like you think you should? If not then perhaps you should take a look at your diet. Figure out what makes you feel good/bad. Wean off the bad feeling foods and gradually increase good feeling foods. That's my motto anyway.

Sweat on!

Thursday-

3 hours of sleep (more like 2), cramps, and a 3 mile run on my schedule for this morning. So... did I run? Darn right I did!- After I took a little choice painkiller. Well, truthfully I had to walk about an 8th of a mile. But the rest of it I ran. A Brad Paisely instrumental tune revved my hippo into high gear for a while too.

I feel pretty good about this morning's run/walk. I was tempted not to go. I was tempted to cut it short. But I didn't. Why? Because the idea felt like a cop out instead of a physical need. Sure, I'm tired. One could even say I'm a little pissed off because of the entire ordeal of last night. But the fatigue is due to lack of sleep, not overexertion. And my being a wee bit pissy is a VERY good reason TO run.

If I had stayed in bed, I would not have gotten enough sleep to improve my edginess, I just would have had more of what I got last night. Children waking me up over and over and over and over again. I don't see how that would have improved things. And honestly, the thing that's going to get on my nerves is THEIR crankiness because of THEIR lack of sleep. Oh well. We'll get through it.

Thought for the Day: I run for my sanity. What do you do to keep yours?

Wednesday- No electricity? No run?

Okay we had a big storm last night and this morning. The electricity was out for a while, and there was no way I was venturing outside in that. So what did I do at 5:30 in the morning? Fight the urge to stay abed!

I did some yoga to warm up, weights, then more yoga and stretching. Lots of arms, some abs, PIGEON!, Lots and LOTS of leg stretches. And after I stretched and cooled down? Dead man pose... I was so relaxed I didn't want to move to get breakfast started. That rain still coming down made me want to just lay there boneless.

Eventually I did get up and shower to get myself going! Had a busy day, not unusual. Hope yours was fun too!

Monday!- Day 3

Day 3 training. 3 miles. Done. I did not wrap my ankle. And my ankle didn't bother till the last half mile, nothing major, just a little soreness.Once I slowed to a walk for cool down, it stopped hurting. Stretched out a lot. Felt very good.

This week the runs are only 3 miles each, except for Friday's run which is to be 4 miles. So pretty slow beginning to my training. I am refusing the inclination to do more that the training requires. I am sure I will be grateful later, when I am running much farther.

Thought for the day: There are tribes who are able to run for days, covering distances that I can only imagine. Surely in 10 weeks I can conquer 13.1! Run Run Run.

Sweat on, my friends. Sweat on!