tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38303222742028010632024-02-19T01:03:33.039-08:00It's Just What I Do - A Runner's DiaryShoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-39939094218933164572014-12-03T20:10:00.000-08:002014-12-03T20:10:55.381-08:00While You Were Sleeping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was getting ready for work this morning when I turned on the TV and saw an old friend of mine doing her now weekly make-up segment on the morning show. Now that I have Fios in my room, I've decided to embrace the mature adult I've grown into and actually watch the morning news. Though I am quickly remembering why I never liked it. There is hardly ever anything positive on the morning news. Not even the weather! Crazy! but I digress. It really brought so much joy to my heart to see her up there on the big screen. My big screen lol She has such a passion for make-up and has worked her butt off to turn it into a career. Over time she has grown into the person she needed to be to achieve the goals she set for herself. Goals to make her dream a reality. This is just one story of many, but it was a nice reminder of how dreams do come true and quite a motivating way to start the day. Sometimes I get upset about the time it will take to get to where I want to be. I know I've made significant advancement, but I get a little impatient at times. Just like anyone else, I imagine. I'm so proud of the person I am today and I do my best to improve each day. I just want to be better than yesterday and stronger than the girl I once was. </span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I keep seeing that quote floating around about "you have one month to finish the book of 2014. Make the last chapter a perfect one." I'm happy to report that despite the crazy obstacles that came my way, I still managed to get out on top and let's not forget... finishing a full marathon! The year isn't over and I'm sure there will be other obstacles, but there is plenty left on my plate to get done and more people that need helping. All I can do is take it one day at a time :)</span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-34302436631252535622014-12-02T12:12:00.002-08:002014-12-02T13:02:23.512-08:00At Least I'm Not Addicted to Cocaine<h2 style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Tis the season to...um? be thankful? happy? For some it's a time of love, joy and family. A time for couples to share and bask in each other's company at the nearest Christmas tree or ice skating rink. Maybe it's a romantic candlelit dinner finishing just under some mistletoe getting that one perfect kiss under a few snowflakes... Yes, the happy perfect couple. Then there's that young family with children who always get along and play well together huddled in the snow working together to create their own Olaf. Not a single ounce of hardship or turmoil in their smiles. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For others it's a season of countless nights in the back corner of a dim lit dive bar, drowning their sorrows in a bottle the best way they know how, all while being forced to listen to the same old Christmas pop songs playing in the background. If you ever saw Miracle on 34th Street with little Mara Wilson, you'll know what I'm talking about! Also reminds me of that scene in French Kiss when they talk about happy people and Kate goes "You'll be one of those grumpy old men sitting in the corner of a crowded cafe, mumbling to yourself, 'My ass is twitching. Your people make my ass twitch.'" You know the kind of people I'm talking about. The ones who keep their houses dark and cold. Who wear the same pajamas for days refusing to shower, drinking their way through a bottle of whiskey while reminding yourself of why you hate people and holidays. wait what? did I just say? Yep... I'm looking at you, buddy! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But hey, don't get down on those happy flourishing couples! With all your anti-social antics you won't have to worry about being invited to that Ugly Sweater Party or Santa Baby contests. You won't have to fight for a spot on the couch in front of the TV. Nope. Shoot, you won't even need to waste money on trivial things like electricity because who doesn't enjoy a nice dark room to match that black cold hearted soul every once in a while. Just give those happy fools a little time and keep that seat on the couch warm. They'll be joining you one day soon enough! Until then, I'm going to have to politely ask you to get the fk off my couch with your problems! BAH HUMBUG! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Merry Christmas you filthy animal...</span></div>
Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-7082605766550132622014-06-29T20:36:00.000-07:002014-06-29T20:36:49.977-07:00People Helping People<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yesterday we celebrated the grand opening of Missing Link Physical Therapy!! A dear friend of mine decided to open his own practice and asked yours truly if she would be a part of the mission, vision and above all... dream. Let me just say that I was truly touched at this request. There was no turning this down even if it meant a lot less sleep going forward! haha This is someone who has spent his life helping others and getting them well. He's one of the few left out there with a genuine and selfless love to help others. I am so thankful to have him and his family in my life. They have been so supportive and encouraging helping me chase my dreams. They were there when others backed down and walked out never doubting my abilities. I will forever be thankful for that. So now it's my turn to return the favor!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is no ordinary Physical Therapy office. This is much more than that. I'd go as far as to call it an overall wellness center. It's a holistic approach to all things health related. Sure he's an amazing physical therapist, but our team also consists of an awesome Massage Therapist(another cool friend of mine), a personal trainer, a dance instructor/trainer, and his beautiful wife enriching everyone with all things Arbonne related. If you haven't checked out their products, you definitely should! We will also have someone helping out with a mental health background. The purpose of this clinic is to get everyone feeling better and healthy. Not just returning to your activity from a sprained ankle but rather all things mind, body and soul related. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Since we both share the same passion to improve qualities of life, he felt it would be beneficial for both of us if I joined the team. I would have joined anyway, but the perks here are that I will get to be on the injury side of health and fitness! I'll be able to get all kinds of training and gain new knowledge of all things relating to my passion and ultimate goal in life that I'm currently working towards. I'm so excited to get started this week since we are now officially open for business! I'll still be working for the running company and school will still be very much a part of my life. I know I'm taking on a big load here, but I'm happy to do it and the way I see it is it's only temporary. Sometimes sacrifices have to be made to get to your final destination. It will be much more rewarding in the end and all these "sacrifices" are actually blessings and will only help me along the way. You know you're on the right path when your life just suddenly falls into place and everyone is happy to help you reach your destination. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Meet Dr. Andre Heletsi and his beautiful wife Amanda!</span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-10611966624723511192014-06-25T21:57:00.000-07:002014-06-25T21:57:41.401-07:00I Release You<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sometimes I wonder if I’m wrong for not feeling anything</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And sometimes I blame you for feeling nothing.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sometimes I wonder if I should have fought harder for us</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And other times I can’t grasp my mind around why.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sometimes I think back on how perfect everything was</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And how it was all just a figment of my imagination.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I remember so much laughter, the music, the movies and the jokes.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I even remember the Nerf gun fights, teasing, and chocolate covered strawberries.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I close my eyes and I’m back in your arms, in the midst of passion and so much love.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Waking up next to the one thing I wanted more than life itself. </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The reason for my smile every morning and night.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But I have to also remind myself of the lonely days, dismissed feelings and confusion. </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I remember that final day as if it were happening now.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In seconds I'm back in that moment and I can see my heart shatter. </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I feel it breaking into a million pieces with no one around to help.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Your words on the other end with no remorse.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The words of someone I had never met.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But they were your words. It was you. This was real.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And the person I had come to know and grown to love was but a </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Fallacy created in my head over years to hold onto the one thing I never had…</span><br />
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Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-38844543336396709562014-06-15T21:00:00.000-07:002014-06-16T18:01:46.596-07:001st Marathon - DONE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>The North Face Endurance Challenge</b></h2>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">oh boy, where to even begin with this one? I guess first things first... WHAT WAS I THINKING SIGNING UP FOR A MARATHON WITH ONLY A MONTH TO TRAIN?!?! I must have still been high on endorphins from the Nike Half. It just seemed like a good idea at the time. I mean, I was practically half way there with training, right? and wait a minute, this was no ordinary marathon. It was a trail run. I mean I knew trail runs were harder so I trained over and over on the hills around my neighborhood. I even went out one day to the actual course to get a better idea of what I was in for. I knew I wasn't going to breeze through it, but I also knew I would at least finish. At this point, that's all I wanted. To finish a full marathon. I would work on better times with future races, but I wanted to get it out of the way instead of continuing to put it off. I actually amazed myself with how many half marathons I had completed since the Nike Half with all the training. Prior to race day, my longest run had been 19 miles. Sounds like a good amount except I'll be honest in that it did involve walking. There was just no way I was going to be able to run all that straight through. I did the best I could with the time I had and I felt like I was on cloud 9 the closer and closer we got to race day. I was so pumped and ready to get this done! Then 24hrs prior to starting time, nerves set it. Had I really trained the best I could? Had I done everything right? Had I eaten enough that week and had I consumed enough water in all the days leading up? How was I going to do with a CamelBack for the duration of the marathon? I am not used to having anything on my back, but it was supposed to be one very hot day and only 5 aid stations total. I could either suck it up and haul some water around or run the risk of dehydration. I knew it would be harder than my other races, but I was ready to get this done and have a full marathon in the books.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It was a beautiful day and I of course was all kinds of nervous. I must have pee'd 4 times before even starting. One of the guys let me borrow a CamelBack for the race and we were good to go. It was 3 of us running and only 2 of us were running our first marathon ever. I'll try not to bore you with too many details, but let me just say that all the training I did had not prepared me in the slightest for this course. I should probably look into elevation changes and figure out exactly what they mean next time I sign up for something like this lol Some of these inclines were just unimaginable. I couldn't believe the 50 miler group was already finishing up and running past us a full speed. We were only just a few miles into ours when a girl tripped and fell. She was screaming at the top of her lungs for a medic and while the guys ran to get one, I ran to her and stayed until someone came back for her. As I approached her I thought for sure there would be a bone sticking out of her skin, but thankfully that was not the case. She finally calmed down and apologized for being so dramatic. That maybe it was only a charlie horse. Let me tell you, when I saw her fall and the level of screaming she was doing I thought for sure I would not survive this race. There was no way... not that I would get tired and give up, but more that I would actually die or have some serious injury that would result in me bleeding to death. Yes, fear was instilled in me at only mile 4ish. At least i think it was 4 ish... there were no mile markers unless you were at an aid station, but alas there was no turning back. I had to keep going or at least try. Despite having my feet fully submerged in water a couple times, the overall course scenery was just beautiful! The aid stations were phenomenal too! Apparently it's pretty standard for Ultra races. They had potatoes, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, oranges, candy, chocolate, bagels, etc. Definitely made me want to consider doing it again next year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">"Harder than most of my races" was an understatement. I was tested in more ways than one. It was THE hardest race of my life. It started at Algonkian Park in Sterling, VA and went out to Great Falls Park in McLean, VA. We were to There were times I didn't think I was going to make it to the cutoff. I finished my last half marathon with a 2:30 time and I didn't make the half marathon mark of this race until after 3:30. We were cutting it close on time and I was starting to worry. I was already pushing myself and well at that point I was going to need a miracle to get us done in time. We got the final warning of the hard cutoff at the last aid station and even with all the encouraging from my awesome running buddy, it still wasn't enough to get us there in time based on what the girl told us. I kept pushing and I gotta say that my back hurt more than my legs. I hate hate hate that I had to carry a CamelBak, but I know it was one of the smarter decisions I had made. It was confirmed when we saw a guy passed out at an aid station from Heat Exhaustion. Yes, I know I have to learn to run with one, but this race wasn't the time to do it lol We got closer to the end and when I could see the finish line we took off running again. There was no way I was going to WALK to the finish line. Especially when I had an awesome cheer team waiting for me at the end. I mean, my own mother actually came out for this. She never comes to my races! This was a big deal. I had already felt like a failure for not making the cut off, but was happy to know I did complete my first marathon. Zoila's(one of the BFFs) daughter ran into the course to greet me as I was approaching the finish line. I told her to grab my hand and together we crossed the finish line. Just weeks before I was with her to cross her first 5k finish and now here she was at my first marathon finish. There was a lady at the end holding our medals and I was just overwhelmed with emotion. I totally cried. Like a big baby. It was one of my biggest accomplishments in life at that point. I had no shame in my tears lol</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I went to get my free beer(s), take some pics and finally get in my very first Ice Bath! During all that time we found out that we were actually fine on time. That we didn't miss the cutoff and that actually we still had over an hour left to finish! I was extremely happy to hear that and even more so when I was surprised with some Tres Leches cake while soaking in my ice bath then finding out everyone wanted to come to the house for a BBQ. I actually had my 10 yr high school reunion that night, but I wasn't about to cut my time short celebrating with the besties to see a bunch of people I don't really even talk to. Though I totally wanted to brag a little about completing my first marathon haha It was such a perfect day in so many ways. I'm excited to do it again next year, but this time I will have sufficient time to train and I'll have adjusted to wearing a Camelbak and hauling around extra weight. It's true what they say, running a marathon will change your life. As if my life couldn't change any more. It seems to always be changing for the better these days and thank God for that! It's about time things start looking up for me. I fall in love with my life more and more with each day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> "When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, that is when you will be successful." </span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0Great Falls Park, 9200 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, VA 22102, USA38.9871899 -77.2507828999999938.937821899999996 -77.331463899999989 39.0365579 -77.170101899999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-7749413689919424302014-06-15T19:31:00.000-07:002014-06-15T19:31:36.064-07:00Race Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So I've managed to keep moving since the Nike Half. I mean that's always good news, right? Figured I'd update the blog with the latest shenanigans. Not too long after the half marathon, one of the BFFs informed us that she was doing the March of Dimes and asked if we wanted to join. We had been out the night before celebrating Cinco de Mayo on our own terms and well let's just say arriving to this event was a challenge in and of itself! haha BUT we made it AND even got to meet one of the Redskins. He was actually nice enough to take a picture with us which I was forever grateful for. Still waiting to meet London Fletcher, but I guess this will do for now *sigh* It was actually really pretty. A lot of people came out and it was a beautiful day at Reston Town Center to head out onto some trails. I will say it felt weird to just walk as opposed to run, but we did get to meet some good peeps and her coworker even had a friend that lived on one of the street and got us some oranges to snack on. A bit random, but hey... why not? I'm glad we survived and were able to add another race to the list for 2014. I guess it's not really a race, though if you're walking. Whatever. I'm counting it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Next up... Mother's Day 4 miler. My brother was actually supposed to do this one with me. Seems he partied a bit too much the night before and well, I was left to run this solo. It was actually kind of nice. I've been working on running without music and it was yet another beautiful day for it. Good turn out and because it was one of the races from the company I work for, I was able to do it for free. I can't say no to a free race. Anyway, along the course I ran into a coworker of mine who had also done the Nike Half. It was nice to chat with her for a bit. She had a system down for a run/walk which I did for a while until we got near a crowd. I'm not a fan of crowds so that's when I took off and ran until I had more open space. She still beat me in the end, though lol good for her! I couldn't stay for the race shenanigans, because I had a family BBQ to get ready for and can I just say the margaritas and food was DELICIOUS!! Epic day for a race and family BBQ.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQymJx_7nLXxQw-zHG2ISbkfl1tec4VtR3zaiZjHK2QpTonk61yUuQRscym-mwaEiGWr4BhkoYMCzeIrr4pVyYOwh6Z9LRhF565QYM1LyOmL42Ck_IRthf3FV6NS7x8NvGQQ6FurJZIc0/s1600/IMG_20140524_122326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQymJx_7nLXxQw-zHG2ISbkfl1tec4VtR3zaiZjHK2QpTonk61yUuQRscym-mwaEiGWr4BhkoYMCzeIrr4pVyYOwh6Z9LRhF565QYM1LyOmL42Ck_IRthf3FV6NS7x8NvGQQ6FurJZIc0/s1600/IMG_20140524_122326.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As the finale to this post, I am including the Run or Dye 5k at RFK Stadium. This was my second time doing this race. Last year I ran it with 2 of my BFFs, Bessy and Zoila, but this year Bessy couldn't join us and instead of just Zoila and I, it was also her 8yr old daughter Cassandra. It was her first 5k ever! She finished and did an awesome job. I was so happy to be a part of it and even more thankful that we were prepared for the color blasting this time around. No one suffered direct shots to their eyeballs or up their nostrils! All in all a success with post race Victory Waffles ...YUM!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">But wait... there's more! :)</span><br />
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Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-49444258902350987322014-06-15T18:52:00.000-07:002014-06-16T18:58:27.944-07:00Dream World<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wait for the guy who gets up early </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">to cheer for you on race day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The one who waits for you at the finish line </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">with Starbucks and a foam roller.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The guy who encourages and supports you </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">every step of the way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wait for the guy who surprises you with </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">race entries or running shoes instead of jewelry. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The guy who delights in weights, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">protein shakes and the outdoors.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Whose idea of a perfect date is a gym sesh, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">good hike, sporting event or outdoor concert.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wait for the guy who wakes up </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">with the same drive to be better than yesterday.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The confident one who grabs and pulls you in </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">for a passionate kiss in the middle of a crowd.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The guy who can't wait to show you off </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">to his friends and tell them all about you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wait for the guy who looks at you the same way </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I look at my Nike Frees... ❤</span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-14519618878985646062014-05-12T20:42:00.000-07:002014-05-12T20:44:58.499-07:00Tiffany's necklace for 13.1 miles ...CHECK!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You can't run a half marathon and not have it change you in some way. It never gets easier, you just get better. We've heard it all haven't we? It's true, though. Each time you learn something new. Maybe about yourself or maybe about life. What did I learn about myself? I learned that I really love to stuff my face post race LOL bring on all the goodies!! haha OK so race time... I finished later than my last half. I know, how is that possible? Did you even train, bro? So my first half I finished with about a 2:20 time. This time I finished with a 2:30 time. Oddly enough, I felt like I did so much better this time around. I did a lot better with pacing myself and my recovery time was almost non existent. I was ready and able to play at my soccer game that same night. I didn't play, though for fear that I wouldn't be able to function the next day and wanted to give my legs a break. Smart move? who knows! I was walking on sunshine the next morning, though. The last half I did put me out of comission for a solid week! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The race itself was incredible. Great weather for it and who doesn't love a nice long run around our Nation's Capital through a few monuments? It's always been a bit of a dream for me. To have the monuments be my morning runs. Sadly, I'm not close enough to DC to make that a habit :(</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So I hit a nice, lovely, monthly female obstacle that morning and thought for sure I was not going to get through the race. Got my breakfast in with good time and finally made it to my corral before it closed. Just barely, though! Anyway, can I just say this was by far the best race I've done so far?! There were about 15,000 runners and who knows the amount of spectators. The signs were hilarious and I very much enjoyed the shirtless men holding up motivational signs. My favorite being "I like fast girls!" School marching bands, dancers, DJs and I'm assuming local bands posted up at a few stops to keep the energy high. There were plenty of water, Nuun and energy chew stops throughout the race. Even bathrooms! I've heard that is definitely a luxury to have at races. Thankfully, I haven't had to experience a dire need for one during a race, but man those lines were long. Not too many inclines... Just a few. Or maybe I just didn't notice because I was in la-la land seeing all the smiling faces and loved ones cheering on their favorite runners. One thing, I thought was interesting was after about 7 miles, walking was starting to hurt. It got to the point where running was actually alleviating. A lot of it had to do with the shoes of course. I was running in my Nike Free 3.0s and before you elite runners start rolling your eyes... I'm fully aware they're terrible for walking. Running however feels glorious so I don't want to hear how "bad" they are for me. Midfoot striker here who does NOT over pronate. I repeat.. does NOT over pronate lol </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Point is, I finished yet another half marathon and felt on top of the world. So much energy, love and dedication from beginning to end. BFF was with me supporting me the whole way and informed me that one of the runners got proposed to at the finish line. AWW!! how sweet, right? Well yes. It really was. I'm not one for sappiness, but I'm not going to lie. Having someone wake up at the ass crack of dawn to stand for a couple hours holding a sign waiting for you to pass by all because it's something you love and they want to have a part in, supporting you every step of the way with encouraging words and chants... it's pretty fkin awesome. I don't have that. In fact, I never really have. Not that I've had several years of a running lifestyle either, but I never really put much thought into it until this race. I've always been happy with my cheer team, but having a special someone waiting for you at one of the mile markers or the finish line of a race like this would be pretty great I imagine. Maybe one day I'll find a crazy who would love to wake up early to stand for hours hoping to catch me for a second on race day. Someone to meet me at mile 7 with a brand new bottle of water, Nuun and/or energy gel OR maybe even someone crazy enough to just run it with me! Until then, I'll just keep doing what I do best and stay high on some endorphins! :)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><b>"What we find in a soul mate is not something wild to tame, but something wild to run with." - Robert Bault</b></span></blockquote>
Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-86838794509533729232014-04-09T21:09:00.000-07:002014-04-09T21:09:54.521-07:00So Many Feels!<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfR1Bmgya7elrueNX-Bp2GpDO6CxURJ9jcMtidWAYVKJKryR5WvkfEezLR_Yl63gq_U6uUE7yiaTm9JOo625ikcTSRT5EVoRSgDI-SZszbq0EO0XXot8pSs6GhX2IvH32qXV5q42B32st2/s1600/20140409_225922-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfR1Bmgya7elrueNX-Bp2GpDO6CxURJ9jcMtidWAYVKJKryR5WvkfEezLR_Yl63gq_U6uUE7yiaTm9JOo625ikcTSRT5EVoRSgDI-SZszbq0EO0XXot8pSs6GhX2IvH32qXV5q42B32st2/s1600/20140409_225922-1.jpg" height="320" width="189" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Well, the title says it all... so.many.feels. We're already into April and I have been one busy lady! I landed a job at one of my favorite running companies. I'm only working part-time, but it's been pretty awesome since day 1. I basically get paid to watch sports all day and play on the treadmill. Oh yeah, there's training involved too for a couple months which isn't too bad because it's so easy to learn and read about something you're already so interested in. Potomac River Running is mainly known for their personalized shoe fitting process, but I actually didn't know about all that until way later. I got to know about PRR through their races. I've done quite a few and have spent a lot of time checking out their website for future races which led me to see the several fun runs, trail runs, clinics, trainings/classes and workshops they offer. They're very involved in the community and offer great products for pretty much anything running related. Of course I want to work there! The interview was a nice change from what I'm used to. I didn't even know how to dress since I'm used to office jobs. Let's just say I was a little over dressed! They told me if I came in to work looking like I was dressed, they would send me home. That means I get to wear my workout gear everyday I work. Not a bad gig if you ask me. What's even better is that it's only 2 miles from home! If you haven't guess already, let me confirm for you that I do in fact walk or run to and from work. It's a nice little trail with a few creeks and bridges. I will enjoy it more as spring and summer come into full bloom. No more snow please! I'm so over it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Next up on the updates is I finally started school. That's right. I am not only officially enrolled, but I have already started attending. I'm only taking one class to finish up the current semester, but it's already been a nice eye opener. Bye Bye social life! As if I really do that much these days anyway lol I've learned to set time aside to study and actually do my homework! That's a huge milestone for me actually. There are only a few more weeks left in the semester so I'll be picking my course load for summer very soon. Full time student, part time employee. I think I'm going to enjoy getting used to this. I won't lie... I felt so out of place on the first day. I know it's not a big deal, but I feel like I did everything backwards in life. Going to school and working part time is something I probably should've done when I got out of high school, but instead was more interested in making the money full time. The thought of going to class, actually studying and completing the assignments was of no interest to me. Today I sit in my lectures being probably the most attentive and nerdy of them all, but you know what... I love it. I've come a long way and I know it's gonna take a while to accomplish what I want, but I'm just happy to at least be starting it. If I'm not out running, playing soccer, volleyball, working or in class then you can bet I'm probably at home like this... </span></div>
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<b style="color: magenta; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">"He who opens a school door, closes a prison." </b></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><b>- Victor Hugo</b></span></div>
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Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-81456076106850149052014-03-11T21:11:00.000-07:002014-03-11T21:15:01.569-07:00Get Up and Go...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt8lJyW5Pg6tIHxPChQgEUGVBbnUy4ECV59ZpyDdgt6qB__NrETBYXEmvArtdBSoDenH4jMHLmsQSVr4WoZKFWCRkI3h2w89YiUuFs0oEaNdNeIBFIf317g5l5gO8TM7AAXflpuz9XTY-2/s1600/IMG_20140304_142355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt8lJyW5Pg6tIHxPChQgEUGVBbnUy4ECV59ZpyDdgt6qB__NrETBYXEmvArtdBSoDenH4jMHLmsQSVr4WoZKFWCRkI3h2w89YiUuFs0oEaNdNeIBFIf317g5l5gO8TM7AAXflpuz9XTY-2/s1600/IMG_20140304_142355.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">oh Man, where should I even begin? I've had so much going on lately, I haven't been posting anything at all. OK well I've been posting on IG, but not so much my little blog. So let me start with HI! Hope you're doing well and that you have a few minutes to read up on what's been going on :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I left my job/industry at the end of January. I know I talked about leaving in my last post, but I want to elaborate on it. It was rather unexpected and I was a little unsure of how things would pan out once I left. Yes, I had a "plan" or rather an <i>idea</i> of how I wanted things to go, but as much as you plan things, they don't always turn out as you hope. Well, this has definitely not been at all what I expected. I honestly don't remember the last time I was this happy about a decision I made! I knew I'd basically have all of February off before starting new employment. So that meant PLAY TIME! In a nutshell i spent pretty much all of February having a great time. I've been doing my runs in more sunlight and enjoying more of my meals now that I have more time to cook what I want! I've also been playing Volleyball weekly and continued with Soccer during the week as well. Additionally, I've gotten all my ducks lined up for school and I am officially enrolled in classes. I start my first one next week! I can't wait! Time to shop for a new backpack!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiif6_mnHXJu25JlrAGat55i15dw0EjI2EChj9wZ_YfWqiGcZQx9cFjkF93etWYhU_uR4ssuJnybG0Lkj7DjP6In-Uia9eCjD81hRDnw-1y94whUcY-T51KbiXBl2rejUkKqjzg-d7fEN4d/s1600/IMG_20140219_110542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiif6_mnHXJu25JlrAGat55i15dw0EjI2EChj9wZ_YfWqiGcZQx9cFjkF93etWYhU_uR4ssuJnybG0Lkj7DjP6In-Uia9eCjD81hRDnw-1y94whUcY-T51KbiXBl2rejUkKqjzg-d7fEN4d/s1600/IMG_20140219_110542.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So with all that in mind, I went on a mini weekend vacation to Ocean City with a great friend of mine and then the day after we got back, I headed off to Mexico for one of my best friends' wedding. They decided on a destination wedding in Puerto Vallarta Mehiko and before you ask... yes, I actually made it a point to run while I was there. Running on the beach is definitely different than running on pavement! Still... who wouldn't want to run in 85 degree weather when they had just ran away from 13 inches of winter wonderland as far as the eye can see?! Oh man, I nearly kissed the sand the instant i stepped foot on it. The wedding was amazing and Puerto Vallarta was beautiful as always! It wasn't my first time there... I actually have family there so I've been making it more of a priority to visit. Look how pretty it is!! That's just one of the several beaches we visited on the trip.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg750zk7Zrz-wsGnpj2wnxhf15EGPF_Qgacg_ICy0-ebHeNGDuibY_Tvj0GGaP4BoYV5l2D6-yXnaRiGPlApEQe4NPWvucoBpDYi2KvpMW3J9FDJzLAfB2OI2dEImUc2LPLQip07ghP4prm/s1600/IMG_20140302_151618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg750zk7Zrz-wsGnpj2wnxhf15EGPF_Qgacg_ICy0-ebHeNGDuibY_Tvj0GGaP4BoYV5l2D6-yXnaRiGPlApEQe4NPWvucoBpDYi2KvpMW3J9FDJzLAfB2OI2dEImUc2LPLQip07ghP4prm/s1600/IMG_20140302_151618.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Once the wedding was over and done with, the next trip was out to Ohio for the Arnold Classic Sports Festival. I'm not sure if you've ever been to one of them, but if you haven't I'd definitely make it a priority. It was incredible! So many fitness heros! Not only that, there were so many events and activities going on from gymnastics and cheerleading to amateur boxing. There were bikini competitions and contest giveaways. Some of our favorite apparel and nutrition companies were there and to just go ahead and tell you the best part: i got to meet DANA LINN BAILEY!!! Not only that, but ROB BAILEY and SEAN SARANTOS!! You might know him as Sean Fitness Freak. He was the most animated one out of the 3 to meet. We met a few other Instagram Fitness Gurus and even saw the lovely muscle barbie. We left with bags full of samples and new gear. I would love to check out the LA Fit Expo one day. I'll get there eventually! Everything in due time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Now that it's March and play time is over, I've started looking into some work to keep me busy when I'm not at school and of course, pay those bills! I know I've basically done a complete 180 in life and it does freak me out sometimes. I know I'm taking a huge risk doing all this, but if it gets me to where my heart is then that's fine by me. I'm so lucky and thankful to have such a great support system. I know it will be a huge adjustment both in just my regular day to day as well as financially. I figure it's a small price to pay and I might as well get it started now so I can start living my dream sooner than later! I know it's crazy, but sometimes crazy is what it takes to make your dreams come true. Race season is rapidly approaching and with this Nike Half Marathon next month I'm sure you can imagine I'm just going to keep getting busier and busier. I love this new life of mine, though. I wouldn't change it for anyone or anything :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-89847114402526622002014-01-16T20:19:00.000-08:002014-01-16T20:44:19.637-08:00Fuck it. I'm Leaving.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZm60qMbxFF44jhyphenhyphenqqtvHhPQIY457XpR_IZj6sxvbQXJPQej6JC7O_n5BqqTJaglHJCayyWfrkHju05sBsRkcr4QjYlRy5fDvrKkIaHfvhLIOCVnV_sI0J0ZBZ_DwT8yBeOzicj8Mq89rg/s1600/unnamed+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZm60qMbxFF44jhyphenhyphenqqtvHhPQIY457XpR_IZj6sxvbQXJPQej6JC7O_n5BqqTJaglHJCayyWfrkHju05sBsRkcr4QjYlRy5fDvrKkIaHfvhLIOCVnV_sI0J0ZBZ_DwT8yBeOzicj8Mq89rg/s1600/unnamed+(2).jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This past week has been very stressful. I know i mentioned before about the field I am trying to break into career-wise and how currently I do nothing of the sort. I've spent the last several years in int'l business doing mainly coordinating type work. Well, things have gotten beyond overwhelming at the office and I finally hit my breaking point. I wasn't planning on making this move so sudden, but i'm just ready to move on. I'm ready to start what I want and I don't want to waste my life any more at the dead end position I currently hold for employment. Not that I hate the company or anything. I do like the company and i really enjoy the coworkers I have, but when you know it's time. It's time. This past Friday, I submitted my resignation. No, i didn't just decide to do it solely because I was fed up. I knew it was coming, but I didn't realize it would come so soon. I had the talk with my boss in hopes we could come to a new arrangement and he basically said no. So if there would be no change, I wasn't going to stay any longer. It's just not worth it. Since submitting my resignation I've been asked to rethink it and that it would be discussed again as upper management was trying to work on a better situation for me. I gave them more than 2 weeks notice, though. I knew there was a lot left to do and well I wanted to finish my tasks up. Not looking for glorification, just venting because with this longer than 2 weeks to go I find myself counting days till I leave, but at the same time have been approached a number of different times to offer an alternative rather than just leave the company when I had a plan already to begin with. If management can come up with a solution, I'm open to hear it, but if nothing changes I am more than happy to walk. I think what bothers me most is how much it was affecting my day to day mood. Sure a run always makes it better, but i spend so much time at the office that it surpasses the high on life i get when running. Well those last 2 weeks are coming up and right now I just hope I can finish up as much as I can before leaving. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLj1E9zGDT_RpXybIfq7OvQVN81jx2yYIZ4E3QXaP8EJCMNcrYT2DQOtn34k5mUv95SFEhIOjwM7-0QMN0sEiu-ewsOWWa9-JUbFOsXWkkTkYdPWBWUKDJlDpUbFYMjJyxMNsThL4i0djG/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLj1E9zGDT_RpXybIfq7OvQVN81jx2yYIZ4E3QXaP8EJCMNcrYT2DQOtn34k5mUv95SFEhIOjwM7-0QMN0sEiu-ewsOWWa9-JUbFOsXWkkTkYdPWBWUKDJlDpUbFYMjJyxMNsThL4i0djG/s1600/unnamed.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In other news, we started the season already! Soccer of course. We have an incredible team. A lot of talent with different personalities. That can be a good thing or bad thing. In any event we got our work cut out for us. All the talent in the world is no good if we can't all work together. We had our first game last Wednesday(not this one) and I was having a day from hell(I know... shocking haha). Anyway, worst day ever, right? All i wanted was to just go home and sleep till the day was over, but as team captain that's a big no no. I eventually made it out to the game and although we lost I had a great time doing shenanigans. Let me tell you, it was about 20 degrees and at least half of my face had gone numb within 1o minutes of game time! Moral of my story here... sometimes we have to do things we don't want to, but in the end it only helps make us stronger. It was a tough lesson to learn that day, but it was much needed. Look how happy I was by the end of the game :)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevtY7yPrKZb5_6pOKraStfZKbrY61aZx38quvIvfNkZj-cmncltVbM0rZMoczMYwvBARmwbiUb-XrKylbtBBHZmYVd2cg24IsUr14aM61yWSUkQpNHhi9dsXWudYF9TzA6O_uLL-dHRun/s1600/PhotoGrid_1389664179311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevtY7yPrKZb5_6pOKraStfZKbrY61aZx38quvIvfNkZj-cmncltVbM0rZMoczMYwvBARmwbiUb-XrKylbtBBHZmYVd2cg24IsUr14aM61yWSUkQpNHhi9dsXWudYF9TzA6O_uLL-dHRun/s1600/PhotoGrid_1389664179311.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And finally, I just wanted to brag about these AWESOME Nike Frees i designed online. I've been DYING for Nike Flash Pack gear, but let's be honest here... I can't afford any of it! but i can afford the shoes. I designed some Flash Pack 3.0s to say Sunshine Memoirs on the tongues of each shoe. I started training this year with 3.0s for the half in April and can I just say it is definitely a different feel than the 5.0s i have been using?! My calves feel like they're on fire every time i take them out. Good thing I still have some time to adjust and get used to them before the serious training begins. i did really enjoy getting them muddly already, though. What do you think? they're pretty legit aren't they?! haha More to come, just wanted to share my awesome new kicks! Have a beautiful week ♥ </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 16.1200008392334px;"> </span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-75098498387035480152014-01-07T18:07:00.000-08:002014-01-07T18:07:14.115-08:002013 Photo Recap<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I made a little video of the main 2013 shenanigans. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed putting it together!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxxivLeNeN7NjhGikhk5MQ5K6nDOaXWLx5CUOqbMCxf7g7REngoKlDqsReSgsWx3xwxpPWSyXhgmzCxWlPqgA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-66545790158213423142014-01-07T17:39:00.000-08:002014-01-07T17:40:14.534-08:00*INSERT NEW YEAR MOTIVATIONAL TITLE*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_roLaDaYcEX52og7qU18Qg-YK2Y6LVALkcqp1XzVQ97iwbc5l3KXubt_rv0Q4-g7lGetNNENEmi1yyBU9Rnp7m2HC3wh3KOpZ_V_l6wf3pnr4MhRBMJfR6dd3nI0W_6Ul-vLWgD-u-ELr/s1600/IMG_20140101_231233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_roLaDaYcEX52og7qU18Qg-YK2Y6LVALkcqp1XzVQ97iwbc5l3KXubt_rv0Q4-g7lGetNNENEmi1yyBU9Rnp7m2HC3wh3KOpZ_V_l6wf3pnr4MhRBMJfR6dd3nI0W_6Ul-vLWgD-u-ELr/s1600/IMG_20140101_231233.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">New Year New Me? Uh NO. Try again!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">All these new years resolutions... I mean I think it's great that people are at least trying to be healthier and live a more active lifestyle, but no resolutions for this girl. I definitely have new goals for the year, though. I've come a long way in the last couple years, but i'm not done. Perhaps the biggest delay is due to my absolute obsession with delicious food? Clearly, my number one priority is NOT abs, though they would be nice to have. Hmmm maybe haha Honestly, this year I just want to push myself even further and see what I'm really capable of. Looking into the trifecta for the Spartan Race, i have the Nike Half Marathon in April and looking into the Rock and Roll Half as well. Still need to decide on a full marathon for later in the year. That's right... a full *gulp* i'm very nervous about that. Maybe i'll see how the year goes before commiting to one? Also on the list... ROC Race! Have you heard of it? It's like the Wipe Out game show except in the form of a 5k and it's coming to DC this summer. There's no way I'm missing out on that! Might try the Warrior Dash again, but honestly I'm just trying to keep my focus on events I haven't done yet. I also heard about GoRuck Light. It's an event put together by special ops vets. I've seen some videos and checked out the site... def adding that to the list!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UYQSFkMkQiFkGUuAJ7EAqq4uJ6pRV8TSVFZ-un2MC0JSGw5cqYURj5iCmFJI5M3wOHPn820_k7uX-AUNADu4xRE_JFNwYJIBUtaYO03omH1MBRJPiecVDUS9g85orKuMt0zTnWfMzGEc/s1600/IMG_20140101_220429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UYQSFkMkQiFkGUuAJ7EAqq4uJ6pRV8TSVFZ-un2MC0JSGw5cqYURj5iCmFJI5M3wOHPn820_k7uX-AUNADu4xRE_JFNwYJIBUtaYO03omH1MBRJPiecVDUS9g85orKuMt0zTnWfMzGEc/s1600/IMG_20140101_220429.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But OMG how effin cold was it today?! and to think I signed up for Winter soccer and for an outdoor league at that. I think my team hates me now and is starting to rethink the idea of playing outdoor in the winter. I don't blame them. I've already started getting emails about if we're still playing tomorrow night because of how cold it is. At first it seemed like a legitimate question and I was going to ask the league, but then i thought... hey isn't this what we signed up for? ugh! The good thing is with all these Christmas sales, I loaded up on cold gear. Now I can go about my morning runs in peace with the perfect gear to keep me warm. My hiking buddy would be so proud of me! For once I put my money towards quality gear that benefits me and I dont have to use all his gear when we hit the mountains during the cold months of January and February. You might call us crazy, but we actually LOVE it. I wasn't always keen on hiking during a snowfall or even in the winter at all, but as always he drags me out and well I can never say no. Wasn't long before I fell in love with the winter hikes as well. I love my friends and I love that they're so outdoorsy. They definitely keep me busy... as if i needed help with that lol </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8I9vmMZ7uJp6c0hdp6O3KvsAihrT2E8Q1dG1EH3IfQBexQ_W_-Vpzh4rh8DEJqTlBFJV7xx-DiXxMY-RZC646IWQfuI2S1w9DBd1EvlvOoy040-9aT9HAfvoGacxOixzoG1xibmXW5_0-/s1600/IMG_20140103_074835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8I9vmMZ7uJp6c0hdp6O3KvsAihrT2E8Q1dG1EH3IfQBexQ_W_-Vpzh4rh8DEJqTlBFJV7xx-DiXxMY-RZC646IWQfuI2S1w9DBd1EvlvOoy040-9aT9HAfvoGacxOixzoG1xibmXW5_0-/s1600/IMG_20140103_074835.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So already there's a lot on the plate for 2014. I'm sure more events will get added as the days come because you can never really plan everything. Doesn't always work out how you imagined in your head. One thing aside from training that i'll be spending a lot of time on is finally breaking out of the professional industry I've been in for the last several years of my life. I've always loved sports and being active <wasn't always in the best shape for it, but eventually my body caught up with my heart> so I've always wanted to do something related to that. Now that im actively involved in more events and have a better understanding of health and fitness, I'd love to finally break into Sports Marketing. How cool would it be to market for Nike or even be a sports broadcaster! *day dreaming* haha well it won't be an easy switch, but it's not impossible either. It'll take time, but I'm already starting on it and with the help of some great colleagues it looks like i'll be ready to go in no time. I think my biggest challenge will be maintaining patience. I can be very impatient once i've decided on something. Hoping for a smooth transition, but im thinking it will be more bumpy than anything. Tends to be the case with me haha Well, wish me luck! Better days in 2014 :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here are the links to some of the events I'll be partaking in. Just in case you might wanna check em out too:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">ROC Race - Game Show Inspired 5k: www.rocrace.com</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Spartan Races - Obstacle Races 3mi, 8mi and 13mi options: www.spartanrace.com</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Rock n Roll Half/Full Marathon - 13.1mi or 26.2 miles: www.runrocknroll.competitor.com/usa </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">GoRuck Events - Events designed by Spec Ops Vets: </span><a href="http://www.goruck.com/en/events" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">http://www.goruck.com/en/events</a></li>
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Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-45811572102333135272013-12-26T18:47:00.000-08:002013-12-27T05:51:10.744-08:00The Most Wonderful Time of the Year<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQ6w1vNDgqaP0ttIIjLJ3zHwSIY8l85xqw7WZBxIiHhgGtgIhprP0sEln644T7Xr42pKh8sFxDD65J8VzC3htNXyutoNN7POBFyfzZILRZ_m4WpJ43n1d0pWiUa_feR9aNuazY0uxontd/s1600/Screenshot_2013-12-26-20-56-25-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQ6w1vNDgqaP0ttIIjLJ3zHwSIY8l85xqw7WZBxIiHhgGtgIhprP0sEln644T7Xr42pKh8sFxDD65J8VzC3htNXyutoNN7POBFyfzZILRZ_m4WpJ43n1d0pWiUa_feR9aNuazY0uxontd/s320/Screenshot_2013-12-26-20-56-25-1-1.png" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIsjqSkBbPyy7bg5Twk9CPLLUO75_8fYsG4nFlJ6j_PRrHbHVns9j9KXizh-CrvLliFXQn6Oy68cgrY6facFgl5z8-cSJBCpe1ii0E2mUcD2lQi7qndLaTL13FBUc1trHfyf6bIqf4qT-/s1600/Screenshot_2013-12-26-21-10-54-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIsjqSkBbPyy7bg5Twk9CPLLUO75_8fYsG4nFlJ6j_PRrHbHVns9j9KXizh-CrvLliFXQn6Oy68cgrY6facFgl5z8-cSJBCpe1ii0E2mUcD2lQi7qndLaTL13FBUc1trHfyf6bIqf4qT-/s1600/Screenshot_2013-12-26-21-10-54-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIsjqSkBbPyy7bg5Twk9CPLLUO75_8fYsG4nFlJ6j_PRrHbHVns9j9KXizh-CrvLliFXQn6Oy68cgrY6facFgl5z8-cSJBCpe1ii0E2mUcD2lQi7qndLaTL13FBUc1trHfyf6bIqf4qT-/s320/Screenshot_2013-12-26-21-10-54-1.png" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It's been a while since I've posted. Been doing a lot of running around looking for all the Christmas trees I can find. I'm a pretty big Christmas nerd! I was able to squeeze in a Turkey Trot with my BFF Thanksgiving Day before hoping on the bus to head to NY for more fun. It was the first event i did with some Chivers. They were so fun to meet! I have yet to meet a Chiver I haven't liked and what better than ones who like to run! It was my first time running around the Capitol in DC. I gotta say it was absolutely beautiful! Would love to do more runs out there when it's WARMER though haha. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I also got the amazing confirmation of being able to run in the Nike Half Marathon next April!! I'll be starting on that training sooner than later. I'm excited to have more time this round. Hopefully I can beat my last time. The point is to keep getting better and always improving right?Well, that's the plan. I'll be running with a bunch of women I've never met, but i'm sure it'll be a good team. They have informed me that we will be wearing team shirts. I'm hoping it's something more on the humorous side rather than badassery. Beggars can't be choosers though, right? Well i can at least dream! I'm also going to have to work on a good playlist for then too. Back to the gel shopping and i'll be breaking in a new pair of free runs for this one. Just haven't picked out which ones yet.Nearly fell out of my chair at the office when i got the news!! I've heard good things about this race... let's be serious here. I'm in this for that Tiffany's jewelry! I bet it will be beautiful OMG i can't wait! I just want to go out running again right now to train for it :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Other than that it's been the basics... running outside, training at the gym with le BFF when we can and looking for more Christmas trees ...hopelessly chasing after the same high as years before. This year was not at all what i had once thought it would be. That's a part of life though too i imagine. We can never really make plans because anything can happen and not always in the way you'd hoped... Wasn't easy and i'm still pushing through it all, but time waits for no man. So I just gotta keep moving! One day this will all make sense. Until then, i'm just going to laugh through all the pain, hurt and confusion. There is still so much beauty to this life and I don't want to miss out on any of it...</span></div>
Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-48702474086535148612013-11-19T19:15:00.000-08:002013-11-19T19:18:29.143-08:0090 days - Beyond the Free Runs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Today is kind of an important day for me. It's significant in more ways than one. The main one being it's been exactly 3 months since I've been back. A whole 90 days. When you think about 90 days, it really doesn't seem like much time. I mean, how much can your life really change in 3 months, right? Well, not long ago i learned that EVERYTHING can change. Change isn't always a bad thing, though. This time around it's been pretty spectacular. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">3 months ago, giving up would've been too easy. To lose focus and wander off lost into a black hole... well that's just not my style. I tend to look for the most difficult methods and go that route. Don't ask me why because it usually comes back to bite me in the butt a lot. Except this time. This time I look back and think of where i was one August morning. How broken, lost and helpless I felt. Like everything i worked for was in vain and the life i once knew was a lie. How maybe it was all just some fantasy i had created in my mind...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Today I look back on the last 3 months and see how much has changed. All the things I've accomplished and I don't just mean the half marathon. You know the story, how running saved my life. I don't need to go into it again, but there is more to my life than my wonderful Free Runs. Sure they make me happy, but so do other things. Maybe I don't always talk about them, but I do and have had some spectacular days. I've got a pretty busy schedule these days. Aside from the workouts and training, I have my family and friends. Those who love and encourage me to push harder and keep moving forward. Anything from beach trips, road trips, Starbucks dates, wine nights, painting classes, baking sessions, sports events, hiking, birthdays, wedding planning, sushi, smoothies, shopping, dancing, dressing up because we can, dancing in the rain, movie nights, DC tours, adventures and shenanigans. The list goes on and continues as life takes it's course. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We had to put our dog(my puppy) down this past weekend and it was definitely one of my harder moments as I've never had to put any of my pets down before. It's a bit of an adjustment and we're also in the process of selling our home. There are just so many changes going on that sometimes i feel it's the most consistent/constant thing in my life. change...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I can't express my gratitude enough for the people that fought to keep a place in my life and heart. I know we all have our own problems to deal with and sometimes we forget about the little people, but i'm so very appreciative of those who didn't let me out of their sight. Knowing that I am loved and can make a positive difference in someone's day/life, is knowing that i have succeeded in this life. My work here is not done, though. I have plenty more adventures ahead of me and more lives to bring light to :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For now, though... i'll leave you with this:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-87458347023257261432013-11-14T19:16:00.000-08:002013-11-14T19:16:54.293-08:00Incubus of Viral Plague<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RYh7ZdpWKRmX0E4dM9Il3lWX9b2f0-N7sozKj7rZbpeBm2fcoe40ImzYl3Bz2x-S8FlEZUyZwbHQZFe9gQewuGbA8SkoKhIt_jidFv2jZzeBJoEmAh-kTRdREGYXwz2fli2ywmzhjmCL/s1600/IMG_20131110_230133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RYh7ZdpWKRmX0E4dM9Il3lWX9b2f0-N7sozKj7rZbpeBm2fcoe40ImzYl3Bz2x-S8FlEZUyZwbHQZFe9gQewuGbA8SkoKhIt_jidFv2jZzeBJoEmAh-kTRdREGYXwz2fli2ywmzhjmCL/s320/IMG_20131110_230133.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Clearly, running in the cold while sick is the best way to get better. My body is a basket full of lies and deceit! Let me tell you! By Sunday evening i was feeling pretty good. Maybe it was the work i put in at the gym or maybe i was just actually better?! Sure i was still a little congested, but nothing major. I was fine. Practically good as new. So what do i do? I wake up bright and early to start on my morning runs outside again. What better way than in 39 degree weather? At least i had on long sleeves. I am slowly making progress, i promise.Went ahead and ran a few miles then headed home to get ready for work. Oh man it felt AMAZING!! i missed my morning runs. I had taken up afternoon/evening runs(depending on the time i got home) for the last several months. I've always preferred morning runs, but waking up early was suddenly not as easy as i remembered it to be. This past Monday i was determined to start again and no one gets in my way when i make a decision to do something. So there i was feeling amazing and accomplished. Showered and headed to work. </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7wjqd4Ya-GpmS3Ki6Mcx2Q21Lwwn0nVVVVR15N6P68OVsWfH0PSZ1htiJC2uUpvxStfoMryKSltEtdannKF5Pcc9KhRxApuBTCEdRzn9EBZGsDFjyWPU0o-mlFwmGHLa6ONJD53bLDyz/s1600/IMG_20131111_064914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7wjqd4Ya-GpmS3Ki6Mcx2Q21Lwwn0nVVVVR15N6P68OVsWfH0PSZ1htiJC2uUpvxStfoMryKSltEtdannKF5Pcc9KhRxApuBTCEdRzn9EBZGsDFjyWPU0o-mlFwmGHLa6ONJD53bLDyz/s320/IMG_20131111_064914.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After work i met a friend out at Redskins Park for a Ladies Night event to include dinner and DRILLS!! That's right, we got to run some drills like the guys do at practice. Except we did it indoors. Even got to kick a few field goals. SUPER FUN. Met some players and alumni while we were at it too. So there went workout #2 of the day, but it was too much fun I could hardly consider that a workout. Same with running. I love it so much, it doesn't feel like a workout sometimes. sometimes! lol so after training at Redskins park, I decided swimming would be exactly what i needed to do. Went to the gym with one of the besties and did about 30 laps. Not bad. I was definitely pleased and pretty exhausted. I was mainly excited that i wouldn't be up until 2am from endorphins. This happens a lot with evening workouts. Instead i was practically falling asleep when relaxing in the hot tub. We decided to head out and call it a night. Which</span><div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_dOltzcB3o8I7xbRXIBls-536s7WHsHfFV92sFIbLkyTondti9KM6rvCA0C2mzn5fOiwDsEWuyGsnjb3AWwxVQAzqSwJOfoxO7l3CQgNFBkgNZ3MhjaXYx6NHcBkmqB1UEvyJYL-P4Ja_/s1600/IMG_20131111_204532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_dOltzcB3o8I7xbRXIBls-536s7WHsHfFV92sFIbLkyTondti9KM6rvCA0C2mzn5fOiwDsEWuyGsnjb3AWwxVQAzqSwJOfoxO7l3CQgNFBkgNZ3MhjaXYx6NHcBkmqB1UEvyJYL-P4Ja_/s320/IMG_20131111_204532.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">brings me to Tuesday morning. Bright and early outside for another run. This time just under 5 miles. Now, temperature wise it was warmer than the day before, but if you were actually out there you would know it was MUCH colder and way windier! But hey, no pain no gain right? So there i go finishing my morning run. Got home to get ready for work when it all hit me. I do mean ALL... after just a couple hours of being at the office my throat was scratchy, eyes burning, couldn't stop sneezing and coughing. I could barely keep my head up because of the throbbing. I could feel the fever coming and my body was just shutting down. Hour by hour... i was coming to an end. Wasn't long before i was told to work from home the next day. I wasn't allowed back in the office. You know it's bad when your coworkers don't even want you there!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjVZngHQtUpD5jR14Wt-40jfxMzvJSb0isn26Sy34QPuLmD18kAtP95WDGpW35KskPV4nuvS243N8yQp0YiNrY3gI833RcjdcCYmpzqEwftYUW65gxPEOvRbVBGbyhvfG-PL4TTYmQ7sd/s1600/IMG_20131112_070846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjVZngHQtUpD5jR14Wt-40jfxMzvJSb0isn26Sy34QPuLmD18kAtP95WDGpW35KskPV4nuvS243N8yQp0YiNrY3gI833RcjdcCYmpzqEwftYUW65gxPEOvRbVBGbyhvfG-PL4TTYmQ7sd/s320/IMG_20131112_070846.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I come home to a very angry cousin. He's been staying with us for a while. Go figure ...he spent quite a few years as a nurse and let's just say i got chewed out pretty bad that evening. Something about I shouldn't have been working out when I wasn't fully recovered from whatever I had over the weekend and on top of that overdoing it. So he's had me on strict orders. Absolutely no working out until I'm better along with a few home remedies. I haven't been allowed out of the house, but I do feel sooo much better now. He said by Friday I should be ok to workout again and go back to my routine. Well, here I am all excited to go running tomorrow morning when he hits me with "nope. you're not ready. I'm glad you're 90% better, but i can tell you still have a sore throat so absolutely no running outside." I feel completely useless right now. That's prob why i'm able to post in the blog... because i haven't been able to do anything else!! :(</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The pics are of the past shenanigans this week. I wouldn't recommend anyone put their bodies through this torture when they're sick. Definitely be smarter than me and give your body time to recover properly. Don't be stupid and stubborn like i am. I just feel so lost if i can't run! Well, until my next shenanigans... *sigh*</span></div>
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Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-32032052141221182372013-11-14T18:32:00.000-08:002013-11-14T18:34:06.826-08:00Nearly Naked Mile - PR'd<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Nearly Naked Mile - Reston Town Center</span></h2>
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Towards the end of last week I started coming down with a some kind of cold/flu. I hate hate hate being sick! Mainly because I know it means i have to put my workouts/runs on hold. Well this girl can be a bit stubborn at times and decide she wasn't going to stop. I had signed up for the Nearly Naked Mile race in Reston and figured, <i>hey what's a mile?! I ran a half marathon for goodness sake. A mile is nothing! I'll just run it super fast and head straight home back to bed with my medicine after it's done.</i> Well Nearly Naked Mile implies <b><u>nearly naked</u></b> attire. That's right. A lot of skin to bare and with me being sick it was a tough call. Major crossroad in my life. I decided to go with a t-shirt and a tutu. I know what you're thinking: <i>Man! She's so good at this taking care of herself bit. </i>Well let me tell you it was FREEZING cold that day. I did arrive fully layered up though with snowboard pants, a hoodie and scarf, but come time to run... the layers had to come off. By then i was so pumped and warmed up, I forgot i was sick. I decided, <i>hey let's just sprint this thing as see what kind of time i can get! </i>Well, I did just that and i actually PR'd. I was soooo excited, but about 15 seconds to the finish line my body was begging me to stop. Honestly, i could hear it crying from everything i was putting it through. I wanted to just come to a complete stop. I felt like i was really dying. Not because i was tired/out of breath, but because i was in pain, feeling horrible, weak, eyes burning... you get the idea, but how many people do you know that actually STOP before crossing the finish line? No. That's when you have to push yourself even more. Figured it would all be over sooner and I'd prob get a pretty good time. Well i definitely got the pretty good time. My fastest mile recorded at 8:55. Sure it's not the fastest, but it is <b><u>my</u> </b>fastest and you know what?... i was running with the flu so don't even hate because who knows what time i would've got had i been healthy! Needless to say i nearly collapsed by the time i finished. Super nauseous. I could feel the fever coming. I raced to get my winter gear and begged to go home. I couldn't even stay for the after party or mini ceremony :( </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I am excited to share that one of the runners on my team. A friend and sister of one of my best friends actually placed #1 for fastest in our age group finishing her mile at 7:22. Now THAT is incredible!! We'll be doing more races together and i'll likely do my first FULL marathon with her next year. So despite torturing my body with all that, I was happy that i went, earned my flannel shorts, cup and PR'd. Sure, i spent the remainder of the day in bed watching movies, but TOTALLY worth and who cares... i love watching movies anyway. Here's a little snap shot of that race. Enjoy!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Instagram: Sunshine_Memoirs</td></tr>
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Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0Reston, VA, USA38.9586307 -77.35700279999997538.8598482 -77.518364299999973 39.0574132 -77.195641299999977tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-8030819443899339182013-11-06T19:13:00.006-08:002013-11-06T19:17:52.947-08:00Run or Dye<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcz-PvCnmzdolGCZlkIt6z0_oYXnZgwYLp750a5QdqtYXTXolMgo-KJBvXenuTGv7Vecu9inNU1dCTXK4gSoMvbmPNG177qUtfEvPb1ocJtyxHB-iGEU47wF94B2eJ-8ClZdHEjVkuXVut/s1600/PhotoGrid_1383232453564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcz-PvCnmzdolGCZlkIt6z0_oYXnZgwYLp750a5QdqtYXTXolMgo-KJBvXenuTGv7Vecu9inNU1dCTXK4gSoMvbmPNG177qUtfEvPb1ocJtyxHB-iGEU47wF94B2eJ-8ClZdHEjVkuXVut/s320/PhotoGrid_1383232453564.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It's been a very eventful the last several days. With guests and Halloween adventures! I was happy to have a few days off work for most of it. Thursday morning i was able to get a run in during DAYLIGHT hours! oh man... it was glorious! see pic on the left for proof. There really is nothing quite like it. Even more rewarding that I was among the vibrant trees. Color was literally pouring out of the leaves. I had a coworker from our Ukrainian office come over and stay for a few days. So we did the whole DC thing. Got to play tour guide and show her the beautiful sights our Nation's Capital has to offer. All that jazz. So even though I only got one <i>daytime </i>run in, I was able to walk around DC all day Thursday through Saturday. I mean the point is to keep moving, right? I also learned this past weekend that i have a serious obsession with tress in the fall! haha</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvY3b1LPUN37tQ8Bj_SELsrCCHJ0vwxqZomqJ99rB4kn4HWevC-vtmPK0g__jf-tuc8YjxnEGXQoS1Q4U7_IoCyvdGJvfiq8ZBXmLFsQIIqE4nPn4HYWQGQVg48OH0leAzIuuQDUkL9ulz/s1600/IMG_0512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvY3b1LPUN37tQ8Bj_SELsrCCHJ0vwxqZomqJ99rB4kn4HWevC-vtmPK0g__jf-tuc8YjxnEGXQoS1Q4U7_IoCyvdGJvfiq8ZBXmLFsQIIqE4nPn4HYWQGQVg48OH0leAzIuuQDUkL9ulz/s320/IMG_0512.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The BFFs and I at Run or Dye in DC</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I mentioned in my last post about the Run or Dye 5k race that was coming up with the BFFs. Well we did it and it was A LOT of fun. We had to run through a few tunnels with people throwing powder dye at us. Sounds fun, right? too bad it was hard to breathe and see while running through these mists of color and the occasional person throwing a whole handful into your face. Zoila, was not so lucky running through the yellow tunnel. No. It seemed they had it out for her. The left half of her face was covered in yellow by the time she made it all the way through. I'm not gonna lie, i had to stop for a bit because i was laughing so much. The occasional child would scream out "YELLOW FACE!" and one spectator coming in while we were leaving made a passing comment of "wow! some people really got hit hard!" hahahaha i'm probably laughing a little too much about it for her liking. Sorry Z, but it was effin hilarious! So all in all it was a good run. It was great to do it as a team. To start together and even finish holding hands through the finish line. AWW we're so cute aren't we! haha This weekend is the Reston Nearly Naked Mile race to run. I'm thinking a tutu, some body paint and a fuzz bra... that should do it! What can i say? i love running :)</span><br />
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Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0Maloof Skate Park at RFK Stadium, East Capitol Street Northeast, Washington, DC 20003, USA38.8906592 -76.97458819999997138.8902732 -76.975218699999971 38.8910452 -76.973957699999971tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-5944725620830942962013-10-28T19:58:00.000-07:002013-10-28T19:58:50.856-07:00What Next?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Instagram : @Sunshine_Memoirs</td></tr>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <span style="color: magenta;">So What Are You Training for Now?</span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: magenta;">I was at a family birthday dinner about a week and some change ago. One of my cousins heard that i had recently completed my first half marathon. So of course he had a million questions for me. I was actually pretty surprised at the interest, but was more excited that anyone even cared to hear about it and my training. So I'm telling him all about it and showing him pictures when he hits me with "so what are you training for now?" It seriously caught me off guard. What am i training for? I mean i just finished a half marathon... wasn't that exciting enough? Apparently not. My family is not easy to please... but it did get me thinking. All this training for the last several weeks/months for the half and now it's done. So what's next? Well, I hadn't really thought about any immediate challenges for post half. Actually, I just wanted to get back into the other activities I enjoy doing like weight training with the BFF more regularly, supporting the other BFFs in their fitness hobbies, boxing, soccer, hiking, etc. Of course I have other halves i want to do and next year a full marathon, but until then I think I'm just going to enjoy this wonderful little life of mine. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I actually have a cute little 5k coming up this weekend. You like how i said cute and little? haha i remember when that seemed nearly impossible. OK sorry, i digress. So this 5k, it's in DC. Perhaps you've heard of it? Quite popular! Well, 2 of the BFFs will be joining in on this run. Not everyday I get the BFFs together for a run together. It's pretty amazing when your BFFs love being as active as you are if not more. It really makes life so much easier and happier(high on endorphins). You know what else is great? Being with someone who supports and encourages all your hopes and dreams, but not only that... is willing to lace up and do it with you. I gotta say... I'm walking on sunshine these days :)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihoa3nNGnyqN7vS4oyEWDxi0d21oCrhX913BA62L3eMjxcJFERyrDLNLvOoV4hcShAWUUNMaNUe-hXfg6LsfgxVkMI_PhvMi3RLn6JusbEWzZig0SSXkB6oNM40agO1Md_SQ0TXEAV3zDd/s1600/PicsArt_1382931816938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihoa3nNGnyqN7vS4oyEWDxi0d21oCrhX913BA62L3eMjxcJFERyrDLNLvOoV4hcShAWUUNMaNUe-hXfg6LsfgxVkMI_PhvMi3RLn6JusbEWzZig0SSXkB6oNM40agO1Md_SQ0TXEAV3zDd/s200/PicsArt_1382931816938.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So now that the leaves are falling and the days are getting cooler, it's time to find ways to keep moving OUTSIDE and stay warm. I decided to get the team together for our first Winter Season(we usually only play fall and spring seasons). The Winter season doesn't start until January, though. In the meantime, I got asked to join a team for the remainder of the Fall season since they're short on girls. It's actually turning out to be a win-win situation. I haven't played since May, so this will be good practice to get me ready for the upcoming season. I'm pretty excited about my <i>off season</i> and all the promising activities it holds, but no worries! I'm not giving up my distance running. It is an addiction and I'm no quitter lol</span> </div>
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<br />Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-38132864056663283062013-10-14T17:08:00.000-07:002013-10-14T17:08:01.432-07:00Heritage Half Marathon - Done!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Achievement Unlocked</h2>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Well well well... guess who successfully completed her very first half marathon?! :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">That's right! All that training on ridiculous inclines and adding those extra miles paid off! Whether it was in NY or in VA, there was always plenty of work to do! I may have only had 6 weeks to train, but i tried to make the most of it. I was really worried about how i'd do since the weather was looking rainy and i had just been informed of the several miles of straight inclines through the course. 8 miles was the most i had done at one time a week prior to the race, but i wasn't gassed out after them so I figured I would be ok. Just get some gels and stay hydrated, right? So there i was... 7am waiting to go. It was dark and it was raining. I thought for sure i'd be done in close to 3 hours. Well, i'm so super proud of myself for not taking 3 hours. I finished in 2:20. Sure it's not the fastest, but it was sure as hell a lot faster than i thought i would take on my first half! I can't really put into words how I feel about it all though. Besides the obvious, feeling incredible and triumphant. I guess you'd have to know what running really means to me to even try to understand. It's so much more than just being healthy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I started my running journey over a year ago and it was more for therapy than anything. Through rain, snow, heat and fog i found my strength and learned to push through all the pain, sweat and tears. That's right... tears. Each mile showed me just how much i was really capable of both physically and mentally. I was never any good at running and trust me when i say i HATED it at first!! Now i just can't get enough of it. I grew so much more as a person the more I ran and can honestly say I have never felt healthier than i do today. Never thought I'd see the day I would willingly sign up for a half marathon and yet here I am today... taking Advil to recover from my biggest accomplishment. I've been through hell and back in the last year and I couldn't be more proud of myself for sticking through it all and pushing myself to be better each day with each mile chasing after a dream i thought would never come as soon as it did. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was so worried about the weather. Afraid to have to run my first half in rain, but when i really think about it, I don't think it would've been the same had it been sunshine and rainbows the whole way through. I think everything about it was perfect. The downpours for all 13 miles is pretty much how i felt this past year and conquering each mile was just a reflection of how far I've come in all this time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was so blessed to have my cheer team with me. 2 of my best friends surprised me with shirts they made to support my craziness. Each shirt said "Team Sunshine_Memoirs" ... i almost cried! Best shirts ever!! Those closest to me who have first hand witnessed my struggle were there showing their love and support yet again like they always do. Waking up at the crack of dawn to stand in the rain waiting for me to finally come through that finish line. Never doubting me, but always believing in me. I don't know what I would do without them. It feels pretty amazing to have that kind of support and I know how blessed I am to have them in my life. God is good and He gets more gold stars for getting me through my first half, but we're not done here... no sir. We're only just getting started. Where are all those fun music ones? Country music and Rock and Roll HERE I COME!! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">"Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the founder and protector of our faith" - Hebrews 12:1</span></blockquote>
Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com2Battlefield High School, 15000 Graduation Drive, Haymarket, VA 20169, USA38.8450007 -77.630466738.7955097 -77.7111477 38.8944917 -77.5497857tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-79965361230390679802013-10-02T19:56:00.000-07:002013-10-02T19:56:18.645-07:0011 More Days!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKp-b9Hmw4GGGcVk0J3Y1g567POXlVStc6p7Y2AlIx2c9ciq_-wyFBdcWp7pRH1Yo6fjfMmTVZnOPas8RYyp7B5bNgGU8hneLSus46xhEiZrauQ8ppuc5hCKjLwE7-hqM9PvZiPKuly78M/s1600/IMG_20130930_175744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKp-b9Hmw4GGGcVk0J3Y1g567POXlVStc6p7Y2AlIx2c9ciq_-wyFBdcWp7pRH1Yo6fjfMmTVZnOPas8RYyp7B5bNgGU8hneLSus46xhEiZrauQ8ppuc5hCKjLwE7-hqM9PvZiPKuly78M/s320/IMG_20130930_175744.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">OK i'm so sorry I have been so MIA. I got so consumed with work, that by the time i was done training I just wanted my bed. Don't you worry though, I have been keeping up with my training for this half marathon and with only 11 days left I'm even more excited to get er done! So much progress over the weeks with tonight being one of the best. I do my longer runs on the weekends and during the week it's less mileage. Tonight's mini run was one of the most successful of all the runs so far. I did it without stopping once! Do you get what i'm saying? ZERO stoppage! That's a HUGE feat for me. It was taking me a while to get back to where i was. I was having trouble with pacing myself again, but I feel so much better now. They say home is where you heart is and i gotta say nothing has ever felt more like home than tonight's run :)</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So this past weekend we paid a visit to NY for my Uncle's surprise 77th bday party. Well, my brother is a runner as well and has come down a few times to train with me. This time I met him out in the city(he lives in Brooklyn) and we ran miles after miles through Central Park. I brought my BFF with me on this trip and while she may not be a runner(she prefers to be labeled as a body builder/gym rat) she did an amazing job keeping up with us. Nothing quite as amazing as BEAUTIFUL weather and scenery, running for miles upon miles with my brother and BFF. Did you notice our Power Ranger shirts? I forgot my brothers shirt back at my aunts house, but he was supposed to be the Black Ranger. Maybe next time he comes down we can go for another run together in our shirts. I tried to get my tracker to work that day, but it was an epic fail. I would say we did about an hour and a half of running. We even threw in push ups box jumps, squat jumps and headstands. Yea we're a little obsessed lol All in all... amazing workout and even better half marathon training. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JEzqCoDa-RghZzmjw1AnZoNP7nRKET0aJUjUsYD7YdHJsYeqSo2-hUOu3dgAt3vKpio2pdeechQs1o42pRtcVMtm9-fePF4CyY2lK1BjCRSJys8YINxNDYAsCrX3FEWKYLxgC2uhQcJ7/s1600/IMG_20130921_135440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JEzqCoDa-RghZzmjw1AnZoNP7nRKET0aJUjUsYD7YdHJsYeqSo2-hUOu3dgAt3vKpio2pdeechQs1o42pRtcVMtm9-fePF4CyY2lK1BjCRSJys8YINxNDYAsCrX3FEWKYLxgC2uhQcJ7/s200/IMG_20130921_135440.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The weekend before was my longest distance at one time. I reached 7.35 miles and let me tell you, I was feeling GREAT! gotta love that runners high. There is nothing like it. So peaceful too! I'm not saying this half marathon is going to be a breeze, but i'm just ready to enjoy every mile of it. I've been trying to find a shirt to wear that day and I found one that says "Trample the weak. Hurdle the dead." I feel like that might be a winner! yea?</span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-49226182307684550262013-09-08T20:34:00.000-07:002013-09-08T20:37:12.315-07:00Hurts so Good...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fU4tF9hFKcG1Jw6QlG25WO76JgZIAhuHZADYKWLh7NuNUU7qeHHcHY7HBdAMo3ufw1wnUVLsu999YwQ7j-qAe71ZLXR9uEvbZBeb2h7P13Nzj012fyjP5wwzsQedzW7ritQEd2t1iMEf/s1600/IMG_1864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fU4tF9hFKcG1Jw6QlG25WO76JgZIAhuHZADYKWLh7NuNUU7qeHHcHY7HBdAMo3ufw1wnUVLsu999YwQ7j-qAe71ZLXR9uEvbZBeb2h7P13Nzj012fyjP5wwzsQedzW7ritQEd2t1iMEf/s320/IMG_1864.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The weekend has been quite entertaining. I was supposed to run 8 miles Saturday morning... that definitely did NOT happen. After about 5 miles and some change, i thought my legs were going to fall off. I guess leg day at the gym before a big run isn't the best idea! haha oh, but it was soooo much fun! I even got some play time on the bag. Good times :)</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm not going to lie, though. I was very upset i didn't finish my 8 miles. Yes, i know it's a process. Yes, i know it takes time, but dammit maybe i'm a little impatient. I want it so bad that i'm afraid i'm going to mess it up somehow. This week will be a little different. I've gotten some good advice from people over the last few days so I'm feeling better now having some more direction for this half. I've also gotten a lot of support from friends and family. A lot who have asked to come out and cheer me on. I love that they all believe in me. I tell them how nervous and excited I am about 13.1 miles and all i hear is "oh you're fine! you got this! you'll be fine!" i'm here like are you kidding me? i mean sure i'll finish, but i'm not trying to finish in 5 hours either! i guess it's a good thing that i actually want this. Training is painful, but i love it. I love pushing myself and seeing how much more I can push myself. They key is to be better than yesterday. Always progressing and never falling back. Having new free runs has been very fun as well. Keeps me energized! Must be the bright colors! Actually, I think it's because they're 5s whereas before I was running in 7s. I feel closer to the ground and it's a cleaner free-er run. I would love to share running pics, but it's hard to always have someone on your route snapping pics. If only i had my own personal photographer. Usually my pics are taken before or after the run ... beautiful shots of course! you know all sweaty and gross. Oh yea... brings all the boys to the yard! hahaha </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I have been keeping up with the MoveYoAsana challenge and I have to say I'm quite impressed with myself. I didn't know I could do some of these poses and it's been fun to discover these little treats. Keeps me motivated to keep doing what I'm doing and push harder. Sure i'm sore just about every day, but at least i'm working! It'll pay off in the end for sure. Right now I'm just loving life. Every minute of it. I also had a cheat session with the BFFs on Saturday. We pretty much devoured large amounts of sushi. So much sushi that the chef/sushi roller (i don't know what they're called) made us something special on the house. It was one of the best meals I've had in a while and to top this all off... FOOTBALL HAS STARTED!! HAIL YEAH!! I don't know if i'll get any sleep tonight from the excitement of tomorrow's game. Season opener. Wish i could be at the stadium to cheer on my guys, but i'll go see them in a few weeks. Until the next post... happy training week, guys!! :)</span><br />
<br />Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-45281909180476329292013-09-05T21:05:00.000-07:002013-09-05T21:05:34.095-07:00I'm only half crazy! 13.1<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Forgive me readers, for I have sinned. It has been a few days since my last post :(</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">haha it's not that serious. So what's been going on? Well A LOT. For me at least. I'm working real hard to up my mileage for the half coming up in 6 weeks. I added a mile today which was awesome! This now makes 6 miles at a time. Made it in great time too!! yea except for i'm still walking part of it. I can't keep my focus and I'm finding my biggest challenge to be pacing myself. Sure it sounds so easy... just slow down, but as soon as my feet hit pavement I just want to take off like a cheetah. Weird... me? a cheetah? ha OK bad analogy, but you get what I mean. I get out there and I get so excited about the half that i basically go into a sprint and then what happens? I get gassed out. ugh but then 30 seconds later i'm back to running. I know, I'm a hot mess. The good thing is, this used to happen to me a lot when i first started running and I was able to fix it. So, just gotta make a few minor tweaks and get back in the game. Another thing that's killing me... i can't run everyday. At least not the usual mileage. Something about a rest day? ughhhh so I have to switch up my cardio throughout the week for the days I'm not running. Which reminds me!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IG: sunshine_memoirs</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">OK story time! So yesterday I was at the gym doing a mini weight session before my cardio. I decided to use the stair master. Those who know me, know i have the worst luck on this machine. Not because it tires me out, but because I never can figure out the settings leaving me to battle death. No I'm serious. It happened again yesterday. Here's this machine that asks for all my stats. Asked me for my target heart rate, so I put 180. Then it asked for resting heart rate and so on and so forth... WELL! when the machine started, those little stairs were FLYING! Apparently it wasn't my heart rate the machine was asking for... it was my step rate. Let's just say i'm not at 180 and God bless those who are! So here I am about to completely mutilate my face when i take a giant leap of faith, jumped up and slammed the stop button. Yes, it was quite a show. It's OK you can laugh. I was laughing at myself too. Finally settled on the <i>manual </i>setting and went about my workout. I gotta say, I feel pretty useless on the days I'm not supposed to run... #hotmess</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So aside from my running, I've also been doing this yoga challenge on Instagram. I'm not great at yoga and if you check out my Instagram you can see the proof of that lol but I am enjoying the stretches and adding something else into the daily routine. Keeps things interesting. I'll share a few pics of what i've been up to and if you have ANY advice or tips for my half marathon training... PLEASE!! I'M ALL EARS :)</span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-79024438890729738422013-09-02T10:27:00.000-07:002013-09-02T10:27:57.052-07:00Team No Days Off<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: red;">So this past weekend has been one for the books when it comes to training. Going harder on my weights giving it everything I got. By Sunday i was completely sore. I'm talking legs weak, arms sore, chest heavy and body in P.A.I.N. For some reason, running just seemed like a great idea! So how about seeing how I do on the 5+ mi loop i used to run... oh boy. Well, I have to say i'm really surprised i did it all in under an hour. I really thought it was going to take a lot longer. Not sure what's changed the most. my running or walking speeds! haha either way, i'm glad it was just under an hour. Means i'll be back to my old pace in no time. Hopefully sooner than later because this half marathon is coming up fast! I have a bout a month and some change to train for it. By the time I got back from my 5mi loop i fell to the ground and couldn't move. i think i laid there for about an hour. ok fine... half an hour. Point is, i could not move! Unfortunately for me, that was not an option. We had family over this weekend so i had to be up and about walking around. I also got tagged in this yoga challenge on IG by one of my BFFs. Basically they post a new yoga pose daily and you have to do it too. I gotta say, it took everything in me to get it done last night, but i did it! #soproud #teamnodaysoff hahaha well this week is not going to get any easier. Must keep training! It's also time to learn about these energy gels and the other joys of marathon training. Wish me luck... advice welcome!! :)</span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3830322274202801063.post-70324655877652430002013-08-30T20:53:00.000-07:002013-08-30T20:53:29.583-07:00Ass to Grass!!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQle8n1oN9Bpx6oYqfQOyeXtjV3ltoF2VeF8C9T9d2DVvm_jrENYKN6jROSDsUrdTFN_zxLO9193skbMOm3khPN-BLxfx50VwudTz3QWaYTh5kjA9JOs7gxSz_UegchPcvB7SKYWfWyJEz/s1600/1228536_10102161901100342_1934138677_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQle8n1oN9Bpx6oYqfQOyeXtjV3ltoF2VeF8C9T9d2DVvm_jrENYKN6jROSDsUrdTFN_zxLO9193skbMOm3khPN-BLxfx50VwudTz3QWaYTh5kjA9JOs7gxSz_UegchPcvB7SKYWfWyJEz/s320/1228536_10102161901100342_1934138677_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IG: @sunshine_memoirs</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Got a nice little treat today... they let us peasants out early from work for the holiday weekend. Le BFF came to get me to go with her to the gym. Since I took her hiking, she's been on me about hitting the gym with her. Well hey i'm not anti-gym so of course I was game to go. It had been a while since my little trip away. Before, when i went it was usually mornings or after work. This was early afternoon and there were BROS everywhere!! It's like someone told them we were coming... fine by me! haha I love hanging with the guys ;)</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Anyway, it was pretty neat to pick up some weights and train with my bodybuilding BFF. A little different than the usual runs, hikes or even hitting the bag. Every workout is different, but always rewarding. Had some good times and learned how to take some swolfies! hahaha Bodybuilding to her is like running to me. We share the same passion for such different things, but we understand why each of us does what we do. Why we make the time to get it done. Why we push our bodies as much as we can to achieve what we once thought we never could. It's hard to put in words how important this is to us or why we're so passionate about it. Most people don't get it. It's more than just being healthy or trying to look good naked. It's much deeper than that. It's what drives us and motivates us to be the best that we can be. Not just physically, but mentally as well. </span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Someone asked me today what my story was. Why i was so crazy about working out and training. That they could see it was more than something fun to do. They said it was obvious that it was much deeper than that and you know what... they couldn't be more right! I may not be able to control what happens around me or how people feel about me, but I can control how I feel and how I choose to react to life. I choose to be better and stronger than the person I was yesterday. Even if it means stumbling along the way a few times. Eventually I'll find my way... i always do. So as I always like to say... Keep Moving!</span>Shoot Me Straighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13004344892458521319noreply@blogger.com0