Don't worry everyone.

I finally got my pub run running runner shirt.

10 Runs with Brian Oneill's = tech shirt and a free beer every Tuesday.

Too bad I don't like Miller Lite.  or Bud Lite.  Sick me out.

Anyway, I'm well on my way toward 20 runs.

20 runs = Lululemon discount for a year.  Which means it will still be too expensive for me to justify.  Holler at my $20 running skirt from the sale rack.

To celebrate my tech shirtedness, go for a run today and report back.

Cue that one song from Chariots of Fire.

Today is the day.

Today, D and I register for the Houston Marathon.

Then we cross our fingers and duck tape them that way until August when we find out if we get to run it or not.

It’s a lottery this year.

We want to run it so badly.

If you think about it today, shoot up a prayer for us to get in.  Truth be told, the odds really aren’t that good, so we’ll take all the help we can get.

Then cross your fingers, rub your rabbits foot, and yell “NO WHAMMY!” or whatever you think may help.

I’ll let you know the verdict on August 17th.

I can sorta run, but I canNOT jump

This weekend, 6 girls and one hero of a man (maybe my husband) set out to Corpus Christi to run the Beach to Bay Marathon Relay.  Each leg was around 4.somethin miles.
As we were driving into Corpus through a massive downpour, we were positive the weather would be okay for the race.
Fail.
The race started at 7am and it.poured.the.whole.time.  Our 1st leg had to run on the beach and our 3rd leg had to run up and over a causeway in the hardest part of the storm.  You would think that once you got up and over that thing, the rest of the leg would be cake.  Except that the wind was in her face.
I ran the anchor and probably one of the easier parts of the race.  It was still raining and the wind was blowing.  Apparently these conditions are ideal for me because I ran my fastest race pace ever.
And then, of course right after I finished, the sun came out and the rest of the weekend was gorgeous.  But, I think we all prefer rain to heat.  Maybe that's just me?

The group post-race at the top of the madness that was the after party.  We look dang good for running through a hurricane.

And then Erin suggested a jumping picture.  Not my forte apparently.

That's where Mel and I karate chopped each other

Yeah that's me on the ground.

 

I think the problem here is that I jump way too quickly for everyone else.  Like lightening.  I'm up and down before you can blink.  No?

There it is.

Don't worry, after this we went to the beach so I could get some sun and not blind you with my fluorescence.

This handsome man was there too...

It would have been absolutely impossible for us to do this race without him.  He planned out our leg times, figured out the circus show that was the shuttle system, drove us to our starting points, picked up runners, held umbrellas, ran to the truck, ran back to the truck, cheered, high fived, took pictures, and when the race was over, he lugged our cooler down to the beach for us.

He. rules.

High five to Crossing the Line Jelly Jelly Shake Your Belly for an epic race.

WARRIOR DASH

3.5 miles

14 obstacles

mud. clay. more mud. more clay. mud where there shouldn’t be mud. more clay.

We’re hard core.  It’s not a big deal.

Who knew it was so hard to fold a bandana without looking like a nurse maid?

Shout out to J Money for the stealth glasses.  We really needed them for the wind tunnel tornado machine that I was so worried about.  Wait.

Here were some parts of the course.  I had to snag some pics from some friends and the race photographers because like heck I was taking my camera on this run.

 

Do you understand how hard I laugh every time I see RDB hoppin those flames?  She was so nervous about it.  Rightly so. 

 

beast.

and this is how we looked after…

special.

It’s pretty much impossible to look good/skinny/pretty/attractive/decent/nonmanly/not gross after a race like this.

RDB and I beat DC’s friend, Eric, by a landslide.  A 9 minute landslide.  Don’t feel sorry for him though, I’ve promised to train him for next year.

Post race we grabbed some grub and a seat on the lawn

 

Turkey leg = delicious in my mouth.  But really, I just look like a warrior savage.  Which is kinda cool but mostly gross.

The costumes via creepster phone pics…

Hansel?

Hulk

“Run like Betty White”

Best race ever with my best girl.

Turns out we didn’t need goggles…or a pole vaulting pole like I thought

But next year we’re wearing capes.

Spring has sprung and #21 is done

This weekend, DC and I ran the Bayou City Classic.  It was DC's first running race eva eva eva and my first 10k.  Mark #21 completely off of my list.  Amazing!  When I made that list in October, I was totally kidding about the 10k.  Do you understand that I started running in October and in the first days could not run more than 2 minutes at a time?  If I can do it, anyone can, I promise you.

What's next?  DC has signed us up for Tour de Houston next weekend.

Ay caramba.

After the race, DC and I hit the local farmer's markets as we do every Saturday.  The produce was abundant and there were plenty of new delish things to buy.  So exciting to have Spring back.

One of the booths had fresh cut flowers.  DC bought me some.  Swoon.

I finally doctored my orchid enough for her to stop being dramatic and start growing

The Hen and Chicks are just busy being awesome

I love me some cacti.  Especially these.  I like to pull their petals off and squish them.

Maybe I should leave that part out.

Last but certainly not least, my exotic possibly not supposed to have it in the states plant is totally digging this weather

I stay up until midnight every night to make sure I don't miss her blooming.  Going on 3 years now.

Wait.

Hopefully we will get to plant our organic herbs and veggies this week.  I got a great resource for planting everything we wanted in an apartment atmosphere.

Happy Monday!

Some reviews and other hubbub

The past couple weeks have been rainy and disgusting outside.  Welcome to the swamp that is Houston, Texas.  So, DC and I have been doing some Jillian Michaels.

She is just as mean as she is on TV.  Calls you names and everything.  Maybe it's me calling her names.  I am not really into home work out DVDs.  I'd much rather be outside or something, but, I actually really enjoy this one, and by "enjoy", I mean she makes me hurt and I hate her for it, but then I love her.   She pushes us through 3 circuts of strength, cardio, and abs, and about half way through it, I wish I was training with Bob instead.   Of all of the muscles she works, my calves are the sorest.  From jump roping in place.  I am so lame.  Anyway, I highly recommend it (minus the music- it's kinda 90s techno).  I do not recommend doing it with your significant other because when DC does butt kicks, I can't even move I'm laughing so hard.  Really ruins my workout.

My book club had our first book discush last month.

We read The Help and the votes were unanimous- excellent book.  So much woman-catty-ness, so much drama, so many strong females, so many hard times, so much secrecy.  If you can get used to the jargon Kathryn Stockett uses, you will fly through this thing.  Unless you're married to someone who ignores you while he watches Top Gear, but as soon as you open a book, he begs for attention.  If you are in that situation, reading this may take longer than everyone else in your book club.  Not that I would know.

This month's book has so far been a flop for everyone.  I won't say who recommended it.  Yes I will.  Jellie.

DC and I have a race tomorrow morning.  I have a possibly cracked sacrum.  Some of you may call running a 10k stupid in such a situation, but since my doctor friend, who operates on the Bush folks (he has to be legit), tells me I can't make the crack worse, I say I am hard core.

The weather is supposed to be stupendous in Houston this weekend.  High of 70s, sunshine.  Perfect weather for getting some pictures for the blog banner.  And for a bike swap.  And for planting.  And for taxes.  Wait.

Go outside this weekend, lovely blog readers.

Guest Blogger Questions Answered

Amanda asked:  I've got issues when it comes to my ankles.  Any suggestions on some good shoes?

Kristan:

Running shoes are the most important component in your entire running arsenal. The choice of shoe also varies from person to person due to foot shape, arches, the way you run, and so many other factors. Because of this, I always hesitate to recommend a certain shoe or even brand, because what works for me may not work for you. The best advice I can give is to look up where your local running store is and pay them a visit. A mass market sporting goods chain will not do because their sales people are not knowledgeable in the specifics of running. A specialty running store staffs people whose first passion is running, so they want to find the best shoes that work for you. Let them know a few things before they start the process, such as price range, mileage, any running goals, and any lingering pain issues, such as your ankles. They will take a look at your feet and ask you to run a bit, so they can get a sense of your stride. This is the best way to find yourself in running shoes that are completely comfortable and supportive to your ankles and the rest of your body! Once you find a pair you love, you can order your next pair online, which may save you a few dollars and a trip to the store. Finally remember to get new shoes after you run/walked between 400-500 miles in them. It may sound like a lot of miles, but trust me, all your running adds up!

(Note from Stephanie: Amanda, I would love to train you!  Give me a few months!!  Also, I have never used the Nike pod thing, but my Garmin watch is fantastic at doing exactly what you described)

Maggie asked: How do you get over the training hump of 6 miles?  When I get to mile 6, it seems that my knees give out.

Kristan:

Getting over a mileage hump can be tough. It can be both a physical and mental barrier. When I started my long runs, I foolishly thought that if I stopped to walk or stretch for a short amount of time, I was cheating on the run. Thankfully I learned it is just the opposite. Sometimes a short break can help us better complete the run. If you find yourself having trouble going beyond 6 miles, it may be beneficial to insert a short break within your run. If you do not normally warm up, try running a mile and then stopping for a few minutes to stretch the areas of your legs that are tight before continuing on. Another option could be to stop halfway through your run for a 1-2 minute walk break. You can even insert these breaks after every mile or two. It helps with the mental aspect of your run, as you can break your runs into smaller segments. Finally another way to try to get through all of your mileage is to start off at a slower pace than normal for at least the first half of your run. This may put less stress on your legs and allow you to complete the distance. Training barriers like these are only temporary. You will break through it and leave 6 miles in the dust in no time!

Keep the questions for Kristan coming!!  (PS you can check her out here flying past some guys...and she will probably hate me for that) Remember the giveaway ends tomorrow at 5pm central so get those comments and questions in (on the original post) asap to enter!

Run with Us!

My girlfriends and I are doing a marathon relay

It is May 15, 2010

It is in Corpus Christi, Texas

and each runner will do about 4 miles each.

We need one more person!

Anyone need a girls weekend at the beach + a little running?

Running Plans

Many have asked for the running plans I spoke of yesterday.

Here you go!  You can do it!

 

EP5k 2010

I ran the EP5K on Sunday.

It’s the fun run that goes on during the Chevron Houston Marathon and the Aramco Half.

It was early.  The sun came up just before the start.

Warm up dance

I sent this picture to my dad after the race.  He replied, “Cool, but you look homeless”

Thanks?

I’m a dork

Then again, I’m not the one who was completely obsessed with the dog stroller.

My finisher’s medal

I beat my December 5K time by almost a minute, and that includes weaving in and out of slower runners/walkers (I didn’t experience this at my first 5K -only about 40 people ran in that one)

By the time we left, DC was saying, “We’re doing the full next year, get ready” and I’m all, “No, YOU get ready” and he’s all…never mind

Cross It Off

Yesterday, I read Megan’s blog, read the first line and put my head on my desk and moaned, “YES!”  I feel crazy busy.  But, more crazy busy as in…I’m at work (healthcare is always busiest in December)and DC calls me and says his temp is 102 and he needs something, so I page an on call Dr. and have to wait for him to call, then he has to call the Dr. who saw Dev earlier yesterday, then I have to wait for the on call to have the time to write a script, then I have to meet the man somewhere in the hospital to get the script, then I have to get DC’s insurance card, drop the script, go get dinner, get the script, go home and get DC everything he needs to eat and take meds and everything and by the time I sit down, it’s almost 9.  It has been go go go all week.  I kind of like that though.  And I would do anything for him to be feeling even slightly better very soon.  We’re going on day 7 of him feeling like caca.  Prayers appreciated.

Why did I tell you all of that?

Let’s get down to the post I should have put up on Monday when I was sick and near death and without internet.  This will be a long one.  Like seriously long.

This weekend, I did something on my list of 27 things to do before I am 27!  I think, to a lot of people, this may not be a big deal and I have a feeling that a LOT of you might even laugh a little, or a lot, at this.  But, I did something I never thought I would do and I really had to work at it, and I am pretty happy about it.

On Saturday morning, I ran my first 5K!

Backtrack to when I decided to do this…I had just made my list and decided that if I was going to do it, I would need to get to work.  (Quick sidenote- I had never ever run outside, really.  Ever.  Like…do you understand I hated running and though I could ride a good 2 hours on a bike with DC, I did not like to run.  So, I consulted my running hero, Kristan “I will smoke you” Lucas and we found the Runner’s World beginner program) I picked a 5k about 6 weeks from when I made my list and thought, “Oh, December in Houston is never that cold”.  Could I BE any more wrong???  Saturday morning when the race started, it was 26 degrees and there was snow on the ground.  This does not occur in Houston unless I unusually plan something.  Then, God sends the blizzards.  See?!  This is why you should not plan things.

Anyway, my hero of a husband came out and braved the cold with me so he could take some pictures and cheer me on.  I’m pretty sure going to the run is the reason he is still sick.  I rule.

Probably the least flattering picture of me from the morning.  Oh, wait, no…we’ll get to those running pictures soon.  Here I am doing my hair, because it’s all about how good your hair looks.  Actually, I think I was stalling getting out of the car.  You don’t understand how cold it was.  I went into the NON HEATED building to get my chip before the run and I told a woman I thought my liver was frozen to my ribs.  I think Houstonians are missing, like, a layer of skin or something.  We do not like to be this cold.

Dev wanted to walk around about an hour before the run and look around.  I was so cold and wearing everything I own (including my new tights that DC bought me for “yay for first race ever” day.  Love him.) sorta like when Joey wore all of Chandler’s clothes

But it was really pretty out there.

The day before the run, it had snowed pretty much all day, so when we got to the race, they said they had to change the course.  I was a little bummed because now instead of running through trails in a park, we ran on the road the entire run.  Lameskis, but I guess I prefer that to running in slush.

This was the beginning of the course just past the starting line.  Dev pointed out that this may be one of the only times I get to do a run with snow all over the ground.  It was so, so, so pretty

Warming up before starting

Thank goodness the Clauses were there to lead the National Anthem.  Dev, your best picture to date.  It makes me laugh incredibly hard.

Bang!  We’re off.  This is where I will say I cannot explain any facial expressions from here to the end of the run.  As Dr. Colleen Walsh, Medicine Woman says, if you look good in a race photo, you’re not trying hard enough.

This is my official race photo

I look so mad.

And just like that,

I was done!

Post-race

That is all man, people.

FAIL.

There’s my biggest fan…getting sicker by the second.  I got him out of there fast only to find out I actually got first in my age group and would have gotten an award and some podium action.  Next time.

There you have it- my first race and on the road to addiction.  I have really, really loved getting into running, but I never would have done it if Devin didn’t tell me I could.  In fact, in 8 short months of being married to him, Devin has taught me heaps of things I didn’t know about myself.

My incredible OV06 friends were seriously amazing support.  I probably asked them 469 running questions in a span of 6 weeks. 

Most of all, I learned so much about myself that I didn’t know.  And once I decided to just let God do with me what I didn’t think I could do myself, He taught me a lesson or two.

I’m done with my acceptance speech.

I already signed up for my next 5K on January 17th at the Chevron Houston Marathon to see if I can improve my time.  And a marathon relay with 5 other girls in May.  So maybe that 10k isn’t so crazy anymore…