Will Run For Designer Jeans

Man, it was a cold one!

2009-12-10T16:49:00.003-07:00

I swear my lungs had collected ice crystals during my run today. It took all I had to keep going. The beautiful snow covered mountains and lovely tunes pushed me through, and I made it home to my hot hot hot shower and warm snuggly robe, feeling accomplished. Strong. Alive.

Speaking of alive.... are any of you? I'm getting ready to map out my winter race schedule. What are all of you running?

And here's what kept me going today-- Imogen Heap's new album. It's a must, as far as I'm concerned.

Happy snow-running!

In a rut?

2009-11-30T10:30:00.003-07:00

I've been in one too, Ang. Mine is due in part to surgery and crazy work schedule. But, after a story I did this weekend, I'm feeling a surge of running energy. Hope it inspires you too.

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

You can learn more about Team Tumor at www.ksl.com

Done

2009-11-18T23:20:00.002-07:00

I've hit a major wall when it comes to running. I have not run once since the Halloween race. And I don't even want to. I can't seem to find one drop of motivation. *sigh*

Let the cellulite begin.

Halloween Half Marathon

2009-11-05T13:20:00.002-07:00

The race was tough, and started an hour late, but also so so so fun! AND I got a PR of 1:50:34 and apparently that was good enough to earn me second place in my division! I'm pretty pumped!

I'm Nicole Richie as an inmate. My neighbor was Paris Hilton as an inmate. :)

My favorite costume was Bill Gates. The dude was hilarious! There was a girl in a full-on wedding dress! The first place costume went to some guy dressed up as superwoman, breasts and all. :) Pretty funny stuff!

I'm In!

2009-10-22T14:14:00.001-06:00

Hey Jen,

I've signed up for the halloween half! Do you have a costume yet??? What to wear, what to wear???

Can't wait to see ya!

Top of Utah Marathon

2009-09-28T15:40:00.005-06:00

Two weekends ago I ran the TOU Marathon. I loved it. It's a really good course. But mostly I loved it because I had a good reason for running it. My older brother has enlisted in the army and leaves to basic training in a couple of weeks. His wife and him decided to run this marathon as a final "big event" before he leaves. Naturally, I said I was in. I ran the race with my sister in law as it was her first marathon. She did GREAT! We felt great the whole time and finished with a time of 4 hours 28 minutes. My shirt said, "Good Luck Jeff" on the front with an American flag, and "Go Army Band" on the back. I loved all the people who asked me about my shirt and was super proud to tell them it was my brother who was had just enlisted. This could be my favorite marathon so far. :)

My army brother.

Lift Your Sole Giveaway

2009-09-10T12:41:00.002-06:00

There is an awesome give away on Tall Mom on the Run's Blog again! It is a gift certificate to buy some SWEET running jewelry from Lift Your Soul. Check it out HERE!

Boo!

2009-09-09T09:52:00.002-06:00

I just registered for the Provo Halloween Half Marathon. I cannot wait. The course looks dreamy, it will be cool (hooray!), and you get to wear a costume while you run. What could be better? Anyone else in?

I need costume ideas! If you think of any, let me know!

wasatch women's love your body 10k.

2009-08-22T14:35:00.004-06:00

i ran a fun little 10k this morning, and despite the fact that i had a stomach flu, i finished. It was fun, and i should do more of these. I've been working my butt off to get my body back after having 2 kids, and I just weighed myself. I'm pre-marriage weight!!!

dope.

Psssst....

2009-08-17T00:22:00.004-06:00

I got some new running shoes (okay, 2 pair) on Nike's website, same as my last pair which cost me over a hundred bucks, for a whopping $40. Wanna know how? I went to the clearance section and used the code NKESTYLE for an extra 20% off. Plus, if you're a first time customer or use a different email address, you get free shipping. Also scored some more of my beloved running capris and a nifty visor. Better hurry if you want sweet shoes and cute capris too, because I don't know how long the code will work.

Don't you just love getting new gear? I'm pretty sure it makes me run better, and look better doing it. Happy running/shopping!

(and my provo half report is below!)

I Did It

2009-08-14T08:43:00.001-06:00

I registered for the Top of Utah Marathon. Something about forking over sixty dollars makes it more official. Here I come Logan!

Provo River Half Race Report

2009-08-10T00:09:00.005-06:00

Things I loved:

The girl who passed me at mile 3 with a prothestic leg. I was quite content and honored to be one of her "kills." You go girl!

The cool mountain breeze that stayed with me the entire 13.1

The man with a beard past his chest, John Lennon glasses and knee socks

Seeing a friend from jr. high/high school at the starting line

Chatting with a sweet friend from KUTV moments before the race started

Spotting our sweet husbands at mile 10, ready with high-fives, a quick "you guys rock! Love you!" and of course, some pictures as we darted past

A great, and I mean GREAT, playlist I put together the night before

The little girl along the route who gave me a high-five and a big smile

The burst of energy I got at mile 11 and knew I would finish strong.

Running past Bridal Veil Falls. Anyone else think of Savannah Smiles every time they see it? I also think of a poor college student I did a story on who died there, but I digress.

Our cute running outfits we carefully selected (or Kristi did)

Sweet, sweet Vicki (Kristi's mom) who greeted us with hugs the night before, gave up her bed so we wouldn't have to drive as far, and woke up at 4am to make us eggs. We love you!

The awesome family and friends who cheered us on at the finishline. Thank you so much for your love and support!

Cute little Lili who said "Way to go!" at the finishline

Sweet husbands who cheered us on, took pictures, and told us repeatedly how amazing we are.

A new half PR. yay!

Things I did NOT love:

confusing race information

waiting in the fa-reezing cold at the starting line for an hour

not enough port-a-potties, resulting in Kris and I waiting in a line for 8, yes, I repeat, 8 minutes at the halfway point before finally giving up and squatting in some bushes

a race shirt in the wrong size and that read 2010?

Definitely planning on next year! Looooved it! (pictures coming as soon as I become un-lazy and upload them)

I met a hero...

2009-08-05T22:51:00.002-06:00

During my last long run before this Saturday's Provo River Half Marathon. He wasn't wearing a cape, mask, or a big S on his chest, but believe me, this guy is a superhero if I've ever met one.

Kristi and I were just wrapping up our 8 at Sugarhouse Park when we stopped for a moment to chat, drink, breathe, and sigh when I noticed a man wearing a Wasatch Back running shirt. I was wearing mine, so I said "hey! Nice shirt, man!" He smiled, and he and his running partner walked over and we all started talking-- I asked him about race, and what team he was on. He said Team Tumor, and that's when the light went off.

Last year during WB, I ran alongside a team with a logo that, warning, is a little R rated. They proudly wore shirts that read F*@K Cancer. Their team leader, Dov, had an agressive type of cancer and was undergoing chemo and treatment during the race. I repeat, the dude was hooked up to an iv drip and a pic line while running one of the roughest races in the country. And he was the RAGNAR runner. (that is the toughest leg of said rough race). Well, it would appear he has since recruited other cancer patients and they ran it again. As in, more than one member of their team was undergoing chemo and treatment and RUNNING in the heat, rain, dirt, uphill, downhill, over rocks, and through cities, towns, and over mountains. I remember watching their team in awe both years and thinking, wow, F*@K Cancer indeed. And now this man, Dov, was standing in front of me, training for yet another race.

Dov still has cancer. In fact, he told us he was preparing to have several more tumors removed in the coming weeks. I asked him why he did it and he simply said "well, this is my way of telling cancer to F-off and fighting back. I am in control of my life. Not cancer."

And here I am, complaining at times about little aches and pains, bad runs, life stress when homeboy is undergoing a battle for his life and RUNNING right against it. His running partner said "yeah, whenever I'm like 'my knee hurts' Dov says 'I have cancer' and I have to say 'ok, I'm shutting up now."

Can you say inspiration? So, as I prepare this week for my first race with my best friend, I'm thinking of Dov and his bravery, strength, and endurance. What a stud.

You can read more about Dov here.

Another Give Away from Tall Mom on the Run!

2009-08-01T14:07:00.001-06:00

This give away is for the "girls." It's a new sports bra! Who couldn't use another one of those. Click .here to get to Mel's blog and enter her give away.

P.S. Ran 14 miles today. I'm training for the Top of Utah Marathon!

Hello there...

2009-07-23T13:05:00.002-06:00

Don't be shy, we love comments! And visitors! And blalkers! So say hello and drop us a line. And if you look on the right and scroll down a bit, you can become an official "follower." We like them for liking us.

Overdue Wasatch Back Race Report

2009-07-22T22:15:00.011-06:00

Man, I have not been so great at posting as of late. But my, Wasatch Back was so much fun, it deserves a post... so posting I am.

I was mighty excited for this year's Ragnar for many reasons, but two were at the very top of the list: 1) Husband was running with me and 2) My dear, sweet, wonderful and hilarious Aunt was our van's driver. Is anything better, really? I think not.

Our adventure started the night before the big race. Some of our team members met at my aunt's law firm office to drive up to Logan and spend the night since our start time was so early (7:15 am, to be exact). Our lovely team captain, Teresa, had convinced the Ragnar Gods to give us one of their crack of dawn start times because our team is "old and fat and we won't make it unless you do," her words, not mine. So, up to Logan we drove, staying in a hotel near the starting line. Though I can't say I got much sleep. I never really sleep well the night before a race-- the nerves always get to me. The uncomfortable bed, busy road outside, and strange sounds didn't help either. But before I knew it, our alarm was going off and it was time to run (literally) for the next two days!

We were part of van 1 in team Super G. It was a team organized by my aunt's office, Callister Nebeker and McCullough in honor of one of the partner's granddaughter's, Gracie. Little Gracie has juvenile diabetes and every mile, drop of sweat, minute without sleep, and memory made was for her and her brave battle to raise awareness for this terrible disease. Gracie designed our logo and made each team member a bright pink Superman cape which we wore for every leg. Jon particularly loved the color-- especially when the all male teams would drive by and cat call out the window as he jogged along. I think they loved to watch his hot Heine bouncing beneath the majestic flow of that bright pink cape almost as much as I did. I may or may not make him wear it in the future, just for me.

My van was made up of a group of awesome and experienced runners:

#1 Heather (a very sweet school teacher who took on hills like they were nothin' and got quite a surprise while the rest of us were half asleep-- more on that later)

#2 Husband (a natural athlete who kept a stellar pace during each leg! He had quite a few "kills" under his belt when all was said and done)

#3 Mindy (amazing mother and experienced runner and food extraordinaire. She made sure we all had treats, at all times)

#4 Yours truly

#5 Dave (the most "mature" runner in our van who inspired everyone he crossed. Running one of the toughest legs of the race wasn't enough for him. He insisted on running water to all of the other runners. And I mean running it to them literally... for a long time. I was content to let him)

#6 Tara (darling mother and Heather's running bff. Had some of the hardest legs of the race and she took them like a champ! We couldn't even drive fast enough to keep up with her!)

Van driver: Auntie (could she be more adorable? She was full of endless sunshine that brightened our runs during our darkest and sleeplessiest moments)

We decorated our red suburban with a pink cape to match ours and painted super sayings along the side.

I was the only person in the van who had run Ragnar before and knew the starting line would be full of fun teams and excitement and we sent Heather on her way and headed on the race route. Her pink cape made her easy to spot-- one of the benefit's of Gracie's handy work.

The temperature was perfect.... at 7:15 in the morning and I started to panic just a bit knowing it would likely be toasty by the time it was my turn as runner 4. And a Jon and Mindy leg later, toasty it was.

I think I've posted about my lack of perspiration before, but Wasatch Back is when it really becomes quite bothersome. You run at all times of the day and when you don't sweat, you can get quite hot quite quickly. Before I knew it, I was up for my toughest leg. And man, was it HAWTE.

The hills-- oh the hills! And the HEAT! I got a boost from the pioneer trek I passed who all gave me high fives and told me how amazing I was. I'm pretty sure what they were doing, dressed in prairie garb and pulling handcarts in the heat, was tougher than what I was. My team super soaked me at every turn and I hit all the sprinklers I could, but I was happy when I saw Dave waiting for me, arm outstretched. My first leg was over.

Dave's first leg was his hardest and wowza, was it a rough one. A very long uphill through dirt and rocks. I couldn't believe how focused he was. And apparently, we weren't the only ones he inspired. Other teams were cheering him on as well.

Tara also had a tough leg and she rocked it. This girl just wouldn't quit! The hills were no match for her determination (her daughter's ipod mix with Taylor Swift may have helped a little as well) and before we knew it, it was time to hand off to our Van 2.

We grabbed lunch at that lovely deli in the grocery store I couldn't stop daydreaming about from last year. I seriously don't know if the food is really that good or if it's just that I'm so hungry and tired at that point that anything tastes good, but it was better than I remembered. We headed to the resort to wait for our van 2, change clothes and rest for a bit. And then, much faster than it should have come, it was time for us to take over again.

My second leg was just as the sun was starting to move behind the trees so I was fine as long as I was in the shade. I found myself sprinting to the shade and becoming so excited when I saw some sweet kids with a hose, water balloons, water guns, and drinks for me as I passed. And just like that, our second leg was over. We were so excited to hand off, get a few hours of sleep and all had a brief moment of celebration as we started driving away from the hand off! Hooray! We made it! And then the phone rang....

It was Teresa telling us to wait. What? Wait? No, we all said, NO WAITING. It was time for sleep! SLEEP!!!!! And SHOWERS, and FOOD. NOT WAITING. But, it appeared one of the van 2ers, who also happened to be diabetic, had left her testing kit at the bottom of the mountain. So, we were told we needed to wait for someone to bring it up to us, then drive it to meet them. I kind of wanted to hunt van 2 down instead, but after many mumbles and grumbles and complaints and "I can't believe this," we decided we should just button our lips and deal-- since we WERE running for diabetes and all. I kind of wanted to call them and wake them up during their sleep time to make up for the 30 minutes of sleep we missed out on, but I refrained... barely. Do I sound terrible? Yes. Was it valid in the middle of the night after running more than half the race? Yes.

We drove to Auntie's Boyfriend's lovely mountain home in Oakley where sweet Bob was waiting with food, towels, beds and jokes. Love. Him.

I am quite embarrassed to admit I said nay to a shower and went straight to sleep, grossness and all. When you have about an hour and a half to rest before running again, shut eye takes precedence over cleanliness in my book. Maybe I was still cursing Van 2 when I heard a knock at the door saying it was time to get going again. OK, I definitely was.

Heather finished her last leg, and her sweet (ex?) boyfriend, who had been cheering her on at every leg, got up at the (butt) crack of dawn to cheer her on once again. He picked her up and they started driving behind us while Mindy was running. We pulled over to give some water when suddenly we heard yelling... and squealing, and pointing from Mindy who was mouthing something we couldn't quite make out... it looked something like "eeee's mo-mosing!" Then we looked behind us, and (ex?) boyfriend was down on one knee-- with something in his hand-- it was a little box. O. M. G. He was proposing! We all started freaking out! But there wasn't a moment of embracing and cries of yes... more like awkwardness and shaking of heads and we felt like we needed to look away, but of course like any car accident, we couldn't. She wasn't saying yes. She was saying no. Oh dude. We felt terrible! And, none of us really dared to ask for details. In fact, I still don't know what the heck that was all about!

My last leg was by far my best. It was cool, straight, steep, downhill and I was a-cruisin'. However, I made a slight miscalculation and distinctly remembered my leg being shorter than it actually was. So, you can imagine my vast disappointment when Garmen told me I had reached the end only to find I wasn't even close. Ugh. But in the end, I kept an 8:23 average pace and was mighty proud when I handed off for the last time.

We went down the canyon, got our cars and drove home to sleep and eat and shower before finish line time. It was pouring rain during van 2's last legs and while everyone else felt bad, I actually was a little envious. I heart running in the rain. It was COOL for those last few runners. Waiting for them to finish in the rain, however, was not so great.

We all huddled in a tent at the finish line until it was time to meet our last runner and run down the chute together, cheering as our fuscia fabric floated in the wind. A sweet "buddy" with downs syndrome put a medal around my neck. They were the charity that Ragnar chose to give proceeds to. That, and Gracie, made it all worth it.

I love this race. Wasatch Back is by far the funnest time I have running every year and I can't wait for next year. Special thanks to Bob (cabin and food), Lee (entry fee for all of us), TR (team captain), and everyone else who made this race memorable. Faster than a speeding bullet!

PS: you better believe this isn't even half of all of the pictures I took.

Give Away on a Friend's Blog

2009-07-21T14:25:00.000-06:00

My friend Melanie(Tall Mom on the Run) is having a give away for a cute running T-Shirt on her running blog. Check it out and then leave her a comment and drop my name in it (Ang) and I'll get extra entries!(Thanks!) Have fun and good luck. Tall Mom on the Run's blog

Canyon to Canyon Half Marathon Race Report

2009-07-17T22:52:00.002-06:00

Last weekend I ran the Canyon to Canyon Half Marathon for my first and last time! It should have more appropriately been named Rollercoaster to Rollercoaster Half Marathon, or Mountain After Mountain Half Marathon. YIKES! If you want to A) get a serious hill/mountain workout for 13.1 miles B)Get an extra tight bum from said hill workout or C) torture yourself, then this is the race for you!!

I however was not privy to this information BEFORE I ran the race. The website said "gently rolling hills." Ummmmm OK. Not even close. There was no elevation map on the website either. (That should have clued me in!) You get the point right, it was super hilly! INSANELY hilly!

So the first mile actually wasn't too bad. It was "rolling hills" on a road. After one mile you turned onto a dirt/gravel road that ran through the mountains and that's where the real craziness began. My watch beeps at every mile. I thought for sure I had missed the mile 2 beep. I looked at my watch and couldn't believe it said 1.56! WHAT! I was hitting the WALL at 1.56. WOW. I knew at that point, this race was about survival! Apparently hills are not my forte. They suck the life right out of me. This course was an out and back, so there was no getting excited about going down hills. I knew my buns would eventually be turned around going up them. Luckily I had my neighbor Kristi running with me. We kept each other going. We started naming the hills cuss words so that we wouldn't technically be cussing. (I'm not proud of my actions, just telling it like it is :>) When we got to about mile 5, we started seeing people coming back at us. We were deliriously tired and that made us act as if we were drunk or something. We started cheering like mad women for the runners coming at us yelling the most crazy/obnoxious things. At the time, we thought it was HILARIOUS! Looking back, people probably either loved or hated us. Some things I remember yelling, "It's all downhill from here." "I love hills and so do my buns." "You're almost there!" "Keep going, you're kicking my butt!" "You are the wind beneath my wings." "You are my hero!" "You're awesome!" "YES! Calorie Up ladies(three ladies were frantically taking gel packs around a garbage can)" That's just what I remember. So we made it to the turn around and got a drink and started to head back. We actually felt WAY better on the way back then on the way there. We got in a good groove and went with it. I decided to count hills on the way back, but at mile nine I went up a HUGE hill and forgot that I was counting hills. I was at 14. At this same time, Kristi got ahead of me about 20 yards. So I put on my iPod and worked to catch back up. I caught her at mile 10.5. I took out one earbud so we could still talk. We finished pretty strong. We split 6 minutes faster on the way back than on the Way there. Nice huh. Toward the end, I just wanted to beat the girl wearing the same skirt as me. (Why am I such an idiot???) I totally did it! When we crossed the finish line, I grabbed Kristi's hand and raised them up in victory. :)

Our official time was 2 hours 10 minutes 5 seconds. Yikes. My personal slowest. But I really don't care because I conquered Mt. Everest that day, like 50 times! OR MORE!

P.S. My buns have yet to recover!

P.S.S. The car in front of us hit a dear on the way up the canyon! CRAZY. Ummm, glad it wasn't us.

women's run.

2009-07-08T07:51:00.001-06:00

does anyone know about this all women 5k, 10k, in slc? i heard it was coming up, but I don't know when or where. help a sista out. e-mail me at kera.thompson {at} gmail {dot} com.

Here I go!

2009-06-18T17:01:00.002-06:00

I'm leaving tonight for Wasatch Back-- wish me luck! I'm so excited that husband is joining me, and my aunt is driving our team van. We're team "Super G", running for Juvenile Diabetes. It's a Superman themed team.

Here's hoping I'll be "Faster than a speeding bullet!"

xo,
Jen

so i'm accountable.

2009-06-17T14:28:00.002-06:00

Here i am. all mapped measured and weighed. the flourescent bulbs in the room made my stretch marks look extra stretchy. But I have no excuse before I leave on my little adventure to have a somewhat rockin bod.

I Rocked the Utah Valley Marathon! :)

2009-06-16T16:45:00.001-06:00

I really enjoyed this marathon. The last 10k was not the best though, but when is it. :) I ran a smart race and was able to run my first half only 1 minute faster than my second half. I also got a PR. I was 18 minutes, 4 seconds faster than I ran Salt Lake. Overall, I'm super happy with how the race went.

I have a really detailed report on my Personal Blog.

New Songs and a Freak Out!

2009-06-11T08:56:00.002-06:00

Two nights ago I had my official freak out for this marathon coming up on Sat. I don't think I slept one bit!! I'm just so worried about how my body is going to handle this marathon. Now that the official freak out is over, I'm getting more and more excited!!

I need new tunes in a major way! I'm going to buy an iTunes card today so I can spruce up my playlist. So, what are your fave songs to run to????

Utah Valley Marathon: Count Me In!

2009-05-18T23:09:00.002-06:00

This newspaper ad has been hanging in my house for some time now as a constant reminder of my goal to run a marathon this summer in celebration of turning 30. Since I couldn't get into the Rock N Roll marathon, I have decided to do the Utah Valley Marathon. It is on June 13. Their slogan is "26.2 miles of the pain you love." I totally get that and can't wait. This marathon is pretty new, this being the second year. The course comes within a mile of my house making it super easy for the kiddos and hubby to cheer me on. Such a Bonus! I ran 18 miles last weekend and it was awesome. My 20 mile run is going to be this weekend. Wooohoooo. I'm actually really looking forward to it. So if any of you want to head on down to Provo/Orem on June 13th to cheer me on, I wouldn't object!

10 things that greeted me on my run today...

2009-05-13T14:50:00.003-06:00

1. a brief burst of rain followed by soul-healing sunshine.
2. lush, green leaves and the intoxicating smell of cherry blossoms. It seems spring came to the northern midwest while I was sleeping.
3. a curious wild bunny rabbit. I sort of wanted to take him home.
4. a very old man wearing tight, leather pants texting on a blackberry. I think he thinks he is supa slick.
5. the ruins of Mill City
6. A homeless looking man I'm pretty sure was selling drugs.
7. True Companion by Marc Cohn. Don't make fun of me. I love him.

8. a very large man in a very small car who whistled at me
9. the rushing water on the Great Mississippi River
10. A life-saving cool breeze that provided spotted relief from the already humid air.

Sometimes I just have to take my runs one day at a time... one minute, one mile, one song on my ipod, one stop light, one block at a time. I give myself little finish lines when I'm having a rough run-- if I can just make it ______, then I can make it the whole way. Today was one of those days. Ever have those days?

Getting excited...

2009-05-11T13:20:00.002-06:00

Remember the awesome, amazing, hysterical time I had doing this? Well, I'm doing it all over again next month. And I. Can't. Wait.

I didn't think I would be able to run Wasatch Back this year, but my aunt's team needed two more runners, so the hubs and I decided to join team Super G. We're running for Juvenile Diabetes, in honor of one of the team member's famiy members, Gracie. I can't wait to run this amazing relay race with my husband and my dear aunt! What could be better?

And I just found out they changed the legs of the race a wee bit, making one of my legs which was classified as HARD now EASY. That just makes it a little bit better :)

I miss my running girls

2009-05-04T20:33:00.002-06:00

I can't help it. I try and try and try to really love running by myself the way I love running with them, but it's just not the same. And where I am, I've discovered all of these amazingly beautiful trails around lakes, and along rivers, and through the most beautiful classic neighborhoods I've ever seen, and I just can't enjoy it! Arg! Dear ladies, if you are bored and want to come visit, I would really love to see you... and go running with you. That's all.

I'm bringing sexy back.

2009-04-30T17:33:00.002-06:00

ok, not yet. but I'm working on it.

I finally got my baby. The B.O.B. duallie stroller. I'M LOVING IT!!!!! I went for a run last night, this morning, and a walk at the park this afternoon. I'm so motivated. I'm so grateful. I went for an hour run along wasatch blvd. this morning and felt more alive than ever.

I'm leaving for St. George tomorrow. I didn't buy a bikini, but I did get a cute new one piece that makes me feel sexy. It's pink. My hubs makes me feel sexy. Running makes me feel sexy. Happy birthday to me tomorrow. 25 and feelin' sexy.

SO MAD!!!!

2009-04-21T22:12:00.003-06:00

I really had my heart 100% set on running the Seattle Rock N Roll Marathon in June. I went to the website today and apparently it is SOLD OUT. I can't even begin to tell you how upset I am about this. It was suppose to be my turning 30 celebration. *sigh* I'll let you know my new plans when I figure them out.

1:58:10

2009-04-20T10:41:00.006-06:00

Me with about a quarter mile to go.

I amaze myself!! I thought realistically, I could run the SLC Half in about 2 hours and 10 minutes. Well apparently all the running stars aligned for me the morning of the race and I was able to run it in 1 hour 58 minutes and 10 seconds. I started out way fast because I wanted to keep up with my sister in law, and then I was just able to keep on going. I just felt so great! I did hit a wall about mile 10, but managed to push through it for a couple of miles. They changed the course this year and put this little beauty of a hill at mile 12. Rude.

After this hill, I powered the last mile to break 2 hours. It felt so great!

Post Race Pics

Left to right. Sister in law- Jana, Me, Cousin- Shelby, Sister- Kylee. We all ran the half.

Me and the kiddos after the race. My boy is only interested in my medal. He thinks I got 1st place. I'm letting him think that too. :)

Now, I have 9 weeks to train for the Seattle Rock-n-Roll Marathon!!

It's Official. I'm a Cheater. And Something You Should Never Do at the Gym.

2009-04-17T11:16:00.006-06:00

It's Official
I have officially registered for the half marathon tomorrow. I will be running it. Jen, should we meet to the right of the the porta-potties? I couldn't think of anywhere else to meet and I know I will be near the porta-potties before the race starts for sure. :) Also, every race I run, I dedicate each mile to a person in my life that means something special to me. Jen, you are my mile 4. :)

I'm a Cheater.
I cheated and bought my new pair of jeans before I actually ran the race. So what. Big deal. I went to the Buckle and picked out a pair of Big Stars. I LOVE THEM!

This is the front.

And this is the back.
And I can't believe I'm actually going to post this, but this is the only picture I have of me wearing them. I was doing a photo shoot last weekend and my cousin thought that it would be so funny to take this picture of me shooting pics.

Something You Shouldn't Do At the Gym

1. I don't care how old you are or how rockin' your body is, it is NEVER appropriate to go without a bra at the gym. ESPECIALLY if you are wearing a halter top and you pull the bottom up and tuck it through the top of your shirt, making it like a bikini.

This guy....

2009-04-16T22:02:00.002-06:00

...Caught me a wee bit off guard at the gym this afternoon. He tried for about 8 minutes to put his shockingly white leg behind his head before he finally gave up. The only thing that would make this picture better for you would be if I had gotten the front view, so you could see the expression on his face and his coke bottle glasses. And me, being the cruel soul I am, did what any logical person would do: I pulled out my phone, pretended I was sending a text, and snapped this picture to share on my blog. Poor fella, I'm sorry to say it isn't his best look. But he did bring me some joy at the gym... which I wanted to share with the world wide web.

A Disco Ball, a room full of gay men, and a lot of pain...

2009-04-08T09:40:00.003-06:00

I've been to a lot of aerobics classes in my day. Step, lift, pilates, yoga, kickboxing, you name it. But I have never, I repeat, NEVER been to a class like the one I went to last night.

I went to a new gym in a city I'm not familiar with and walked into a 50/50 class. You know, half cardio and half weights. I've been to these sorts of classes before and they're usually about the same. But I knew this class would be different when I walked in and saw a room full of perfectly groomed men wearing tight shorts and sweat headbands.

I asked one of them what kind of weights I needed to grab for the class and he said "well, usually most people use 5 pound weights." 5 freaking pounds? Seriously? I usually grab 12's and 15's for my class! I grabbed some 5's and some 8's and took my place. The class filled up and the teacher, who by the way about about 4 feet tall and 85 pounds, came in and turned on the loudest house music I've ever heard and flipped on, get ready for it, a disco ball with flashing lights.

She started what she called "the warmup" but it was more like frantic jumping and throwing our arms around and it just didn't stop! The whole class was moving at 90 miles an hour and there was thrusting... lots of thrusting!

And sure, 5 pounds weights are nothing, unless you're throwing them around at 50 reps per second for an hour and a half straight! My body was screaming in pain as we hitch-kicked and went up and down and up and down and back and forth and back and forth. I kept swearing under my breath every time that horrible little woman looked at me and said "Keep MOVING! I can SEE YOU!"

About half way through the class, I just stopped for a minute, looked around at all the men who were prettier than I am sweating like they were in a sauna and they thrusted to and fro under the flashing lights and just started laughing out loud. One of them glared at me and I started up again. And what's weird, that was ONE HELL OF A WORKOUT! Seriously, I don't think I've ever been to a harder class..... but at this point I'm not sure if I'll go back. It was a little too out there for me. Although, I did dig the disco ball.

12.25 Miles

2009-04-05T18:07:00.001-06:00

I got up yesterday morning at 7am to do my long run and looked out my window to see snow!!! What! So I climbed back in bed and told Nate I wasn't sure I wanted to run while it was snowing. I told myself all the reasons I didn't want to go, then told myself all the reason I should go. Should go won the battle. Five minutes later I was out of bed and 20 minutes later out the door.

As soon as I was running, I was so glad I was. It was really peaceful and the sidewalks weren't slippery at all. Minus one incident with a dog, it was a great run. I'm not as fast as I would like to be, but at least I know that I will be able to run the SLC half and not kill myself! I wanted to go the full 13.1 yesterday, but when I got back to my house, I was only at 12.25 miles and *conference was going to be on in 10 minutes. So I called it good. I'm not going to lie, I'm still proud of myself. :)

Salt Lake City Half Marathon, Here I Come!

P.S. Jen, you are not alone in your love for Miley Cyrus. The last 3 miles of my run I listened to her new song, The Climb, over and over!

2009-03-31T09:32:00.005-06:00

Maybe it's because I'm the proud new owner of these......

but I managed to bust out 10.75 miles last Saturday. Miracles do happen. :)

Realization...... HUGE Realization

2009-03-24T11:50:00.000-06:00

Two Saturdays ago I finally got up enough oomph and went for a long run. It only ended up being 7 miles. Yes, that is a long run these days. Since December I have been telling myself I was going to run the SLC Marathon this year. Even though training has been less than stellar, ummm way less than stellar, I still had managed to convince myself that I could still do it. However, when I ran that seven miles two Saturdays ago and nearly killed myself, I realized that there is NO WAY I'm going to be able to do the marathon. Just NO WAY. Am I disappointed in myself, TOTALLY. But I feel even worse that I have let Jen down. I have been hands down the worst running partner ever.

So, here's to rockin the half, and being more motivated in the future! (Sounds like you are already motivated to run the Minneapolis!)

Encouragement/Discouragement Requested

2009-03-22T23:21:00.002-06:00

Well, this is a bit random, but has anyone ever run the Minneappolis Marathon? Husband and I are thinking of doing it.

Only problem is, well, it's May 31st and I have been training for the SLC half, and not very well at that. Think I could be ready by the end of May for the big one? I looked at the training schedule and it has 12 miles for next Saturday.... and the most I've run this training schedule is 6 miles, and that was 2, yes 2, weeks ago.

So, what do you think? Honestly...

Top 10 Reasons I'm Not Running a Marathon in April

2009-03-13T16:19:00.003-06:00

Ok girls...so I have decided that I won't be able to run the marathon in April. Here are my top 10 Reasons to Not run a marathon in April.
10. I haven't trained since January.
9. I don't feel like having black toenails.
8. I have been super busy with work & kids.
7. My knees still bother me if I run longer than 5 miles.
6. My sister had surgery and I want to be able run with her.
5. I am lazy lately.
4. I went through a depression phase in my life.
3. My kids started basketball in Dec and I signed them up for Saturday games.
2. Started dating someone new.
1. Getting Married and going on a Honeymoon in April!!!

Fear...

2009-03-11T19:44:00.002-06:00

I don't know what I've been scared of, but something has been stopping me from running. And the longer I went without my running routine, the more fear I had... and I became more and more worried that because I haven't been diligently running, when I finally did, it would be hard and I would get discouraged.

Well, I just got back from a short 4-miler and while I was a little more winded than I should have been, it certainly wasn't anything to be scared of.

Running for me is so much a mental game. If I'm having a rough week (as I have this past week), it effects my confidence running so much.

I won't say I'm completely back on the bandwagon, but I at least have one leg on. Hopefully the other leg will hop on tomorrow.

I suck. period.

2009-03-01T20:35:00.004-07:00

Yep, I do. I really really really do. Ask me if I've been diligently training. I'd say no. Ask me how much I run every week lately. I'd say not nearly as much as I should be. Yep, I should get a big fat "L" tatooed on my forehead for "Loser" because basically, that's what I am. And not the cool kind like on the "Biggest Loser." I mean the kind that just sucks.

As typical with most losers, I could give you a gazillion reasons why I haven't been running well: moving, job stress, work schedule changes, life stress, lack of time, and the list could go on-- I'm quite creative. But basically, I've been in a major rut. MAJOR.

And the husband? He's basically kicking my trash. He ran 13 miles on Saturday morning. Ask me how many I ran. I'd say none. I can't believe I'm letting him beat me! Oh, how it kills me to write it-- I hate to get beaten by a boy. Ugh.

Now, all of this said, I am feeling a major motivating factor coming on-- my new home is right next to one super duper amazing trailhead-- with one super duper amazing trail.

So go on, kick me hard, right in the bum. I need it. And.......... go.

I soooo did not want to run yesterday

2009-02-10T11:23:00.002-07:00

I knew I needed to, but when I looked outside, it was all rainy and drizzly. I love running in the snow-- not so much in the rain. But my body and mind craved it. Life has been, well, crazy lately. My mind has been full of worry and self doubt, my heart has been heavy, and as much as I was resisting running, I knew it would be just what the doctor ordered. I took a few deep breaths and put on my gear.

I was surprised when I walked outside that it wasn't nearly as cold as it looked. I breathed in the cool, crisp air and was immediately invigorated. And suddenly I was off, my legs took over and started running before my mind could catch up.

The first few miles were rough. So much of running is mental strength, and I was feeling weak. But I kept going, and soon I was in my groove.

The last few miles were perfect. The weather was my favorite type to run in and my thoughts started to mellow.

By the time I made it home, I was a little more back to myself. Refreshed, rejuvinated, and ready to take on what I knew would be a rough day. And it definitely was.

Today, I am much in the same place I was yesterday-- and I know a run will get me back on track because running is something I do for myself and my well-being. Running is the time for me.

Blah...

2009-02-01T20:21:00.002-07:00

I ate a lot of junk tonight. And it's all the fault of this, which I watched for this. Between watching and working, the only healthy thing I consumed all night was water. I think I may puke. I'm planning to make up for it tomorrow morning with an awesome run. Anyone else binge on Superbowl goodies?

Just do it.

2009-01-31T09:49:00.002-07:00

A post from my personal blog...

6:30am: baby cries.

he finishes eating and for some reason i'm awake. invigorated actually. i imagined what it would be like if i could go for a run. then i realized that i can. it may not be far, and it may be cold, but i can at least try it.

I tip-toed around awkwardly looking for clothes that I haven't worn in awhile. My Nike Pro running tights. My Nike Pro Shirt. My Nike ACG jacket. An ugly hat. My Black Diamond gloves. my socks. My trusty Sauconys. My broken iPod.

I had a half of a chocolate GU and I was off. It was dark. It was cold. But the crisp air woke me up and I was excited.

Hold Tight, by the Chemical Brothers blasted in my ear. I remembered what it was like the morning of the marathon. Dark, cold- feeling nervous. I had no idea how my body was going to perform that day, and no idea today. But my mind made me think I could go for it.

I ran along Wasatch Blvd. I love that run. The cityscape to the west and the mountains to the east blows me away every time.

Why do I love to run?

It makes me feel empowered. To know that not many people like to do it because it's hard. It's really hard. To be alone with yourself and your thoughts. Especially when you have my thoughts. But then, your mind clears and you let go. Your mind and your body are in a constant battle. Most times either one or the other is trying to give up. But you figure it out and keep going. and sometimes you don't. but either way, it's cool.

I went farther than I thought I would and finished strong. I walked up our driveway feeling like I could be a better mom and wife. I forgot about the crappy week I had. I walked through the door to the sound of dad and son giggling in bed. and I realized why i love to run, and where I always want to end up.

don't judge....

2009-01-28T18:01:00.005-07:00

Sometimes I listen to Miley Cyrus while I run. I've also been known to allow Hillary Duff to grace my ipod. My new favorite is "Breakout," by Ms. Hannah Montana herself.

And yes, I am fully aware the lyrics say "My parents say I'm lazy. Gettin' up at 8 am's CRA-ZAY." And there is also a reference to a school bell.

So what if I'm far from a tween. So what if her dad was popular when I was her age. Say what you will, her beats keep me boppin' while I trot through the snow.

Don't hate. Just "Let go-oh-oh!"

ok all you lurkers....

2009-01-27T20:46:00.002-07:00

Don't be shy! Go on, comment away! We would love to hear from you! And, maybe it will give me a little kick in the bootay-- I seriously could use one this week. I'm in a bit of a rut.

Spandex is Happiness

2009-01-21T22:37:00.001-07:00

Somebody had this sign on their garage during the SLC Marathon last year. I couldn't help but use it as my title today because I wore my capri spandex to the gym. I had no other choice. And I decided on my way over there that I was just going to own it. I didn't care who saw me running in all my spandex glory. But let me tell you, spandex really is happiness! I love all my running tights. I do usually wear a running skirt over them to cover my buns! I have never had enough guts to wear the skirts to the gym though.

Anyway, I had a great run. I ran six miles while watching American Idol/Lost recap shows. I ran the last mile a little faster. I love doing that.

P.S. Wouldn't you know it that a tiny little girl in her running tights got onto the treadmill next to me. Whatever, I didn't even care.

10 Miles and a Mustard Miracle

2009-01-17T19:23:00.002-07:00

Last night my husband, who is in the MBA program at BYU, says this to me, "I think I already told you this but I have a group meeting tomorrow at school at 10:30." Um actually no Babe, you didn't mention that. That's why I wasn't able to make the group run this morning. *SIGH* But, I did do it on my own. And I actually had a really great run.

I started out from my house and headed for the Provo River Trail. It is just over 2 miles to get there. Then I headed towards the Canyon. I always go the other way to avoid running up the canyon, but today I decided I could use some hillage. When I got the the canyon, I needed to run 1.75 miles up it. I was nervous, but running up the canyon was not what I thought it was. It was very very gradual. Nothing huge. I couldn't help but thinking how much Jen would love it because is had little yellow and white lines just like a road, and instead of dodging cars, she could just dodge bicylces. :) And it was BEAUTIFUL! So I got to 5 miles and turned around. I love doing out and backs. There's something so great about turning around and knowing you are more than half way done. I was at 53 minutes and some change. So I get headed back down, which was AWESOME. Who doesn't love running downhill? Then a problem occurred. I started getting a major cramp in my right calf. YIKES. All I could think of was that I was 4.35 miles from home. A long way to run with a cramp in my calf. However, I remembered a little nifty trick my older brother taught me. Apparently when you have a muscle cramp,a little mustard will cure it. I was running with my fanny pack(it doesn't look like a 1980 fanny pack, it's a running one that is way cuter) and it had mustard packs still in it from when I ran the Pocotello marathon back in Aug. I had never had to use them before. So I stopped, stretched for a minute and downed 1 mustard pack. And before I even began running again, it was like I had never even had a cramp. A little mustard miracle! I was feeling great! When I got back out to the mouth of the canyon I stopped at the subway to use the facilities, buy a gatorade, down a gel pack and then I continued on my way. I was feeling so good that I sped up. I ran mile 9 at about a 9:30 pace and the final mile in under 9 minutes. My second five miles I ran in about 48 minutes. Crazy right! It was a good run for me. Hopefully next week will be the same.

And I did take a couple of pics when I got home, but they were nasty. I have learned to only take before pictures! (Or at least have some makeup on when I start the run. )

So how were your runs today????

Jen. . .this one is for you

2009-01-15T11:56:00.002-07:00

Jen has oh so sweetly, (and aggressively) reminded me a ba-jillion times that I need to blog. I have been avoiding this for several reasons:
1. I haven't run for 2 months
2. I was prego and lost it . . .so I had a pitty party and became a recluse
3. My treadmill is broken, and with three kids at home. . .I am 1 stroller seat short
4. I HATE running (during the run. . .but admit enjoy the rush after)
5. I like to make up as many excuses as possible to get out of running

So now what? I really really really hate running. I NEED to run. I want the body gained by running, I need to do something for my heart. I would kill for some alone time. But how does one become a runner? I thought you'd say that. So basically what I'm hearing is that I have to START. Crap. This is going to be harder than I thought.
Well, the hubby is going to fix my treadmill tomorrow, so no excuses there. I'm going to download every favorite song I can possibly think of, as music is a major motivator for me. AND as soon as I can hit the 5 mile mark (go ahead all you marathoners. . .gets your laughs out now at my measly 5 miles which will be a HUGE accomplishment for me) I am going to insist on a massage gift certificate to reward myself.
If any of you pro's have advice, . .feel free to push it along my way. Deep breath. Ok, I'm committed.

It felt like Spring...

2009-01-14T15:07:00.002-07:00

As I trotted through town on my run today. The snow has started to melt and I swear the grass is starting to look green. I know it's too soon to have Spring Fever, but the warm weather made my run most delightful and excited for the marathon. I do wish it would stay like this for a while.

Has anyone tried...

2009-01-10T16:49:00.002-07:00

THESE? I saw a woman running in a similar contraption in Sugarhouse Park last week and while I was a slippin' and a slidin', she wasn't having a bit of trouble running on the ice and snow. She said these bad boys were the secret. My only hesitation is I would be worried about them messing with my stride, or giving me an injury from screwing up the bottom of my shoe and making it uneven. So, what do you think?

Nothing like a nice run-- with a partner!

2009-01-10T15:07:00.002-07:00

Now that you've read Ang's post about our first run together, I'm sure you think I'm a crazy, speedy, car-dodging lunatic with a death wish for myself and my running buddy, but let me assure you, I LOVE that I had someone to run with today!

Yesterday I sent out the info about where we would run via text, as usual, and, as usual, the "I'm not coming" texts started pouring in. So, I prepared for another lonely run but then I got one from Ang-- hers said she was in! I was pumped!

I planned to run my regular route-- down Highland Drive, up 6200 S.-- and I mean UP:), North on Holladay Blvd, then down Murray/Holladay Rd. There's something magical about this route because a portion of it is the SLC Marathon route. It always makes me smile when I'm running up 6200 S. to where the halfway mark was.

Ang was right on time. Huzzbin, on the other hand, basically rolled out of bed and as I was walking out the door to meet Ang, he was slurping cereal (of course, Cocoa Puffs) and still not dressed for our run. I told him he better hustle his bustle, and left.

A girl after my own heart, Ang wanted to document the occaision and pulled out her camera for a photo op. I could feel it was going to be a good run.

We started off chatting. I am used to chatting for the first little bit of a run, then I like to "Zen", put on my music, and get in the zone. We learned a lot about each other for the first several miles, and then we hit a major hill and a lot of traffic and the chatting stopped--- and I guess the fear for Ang began.

Seriously, I do fear cars, but what am I supposed to do? Running on the road is much better for you, and pedestrians have the right of way! So, maybe there was a little bit of vehicle-dodging involved, but it was worth it for the great hill workout we got in!

I love running up a big hill because I know I get to run down it next! And as we ran down, I got into a groove that stayed with me for the rest of the run. We finished strong, and I can't wait for next week!

Ang, to use a famous Kristi quote since she is out recovering from giving birth to her new babe, "Hills are our friends!"

xoxo,
Jen

Top 3 Reasons Why Jen is Going to Kill Me!

2009-01-10T13:10:00.008-07:00

I should preface this by saying that today I was lucky enough to get together with Jen and go for a run. Even though my title makes it sound like I wasn't having a good time, I totally was. Thanks for running with me!!

1) Jen runs through traffic like nobody I have ever met! She is fearless. If there is a sidewalk, I always opt for it. Jen, not so much. Today on our run, she had me running on a white line between lanes, through a HUGE intersection. We're talking cars exiting the freeway on one side and cars going straight on the other. Luckily, this wasn't for very long. :)

2) Hills. I basically have started this marathon training from square one. The last time I had run before "official" training started was on Aug. 31st. So I'm really not in the best shape, or any kind of shape, AT ALL. I went to by where Jen lives for this run, so I was totally oblivious to what kind of terrain we would be running on. Well, apparently Jen is partial to hills. Lots of hills. While running under the freeway through the huge intersection, we were also going up a big hill. I was feeling it!

3)Jen wants me to have a heart attack. Let me just tell you last week I ran 8 miles and averaged just over 11 minute miles. I told Jen this before our run. We started out at a nice slow pace and I pretty much talked her ear off for a couple of miles. Then the hills started, which meant we got to go down hill. We got up to a pretty fast pace running down the hills, but then Jen never slowed down. I looked at my Garmin, and at one point, not on a downhill, we were running an 8 minute 13 second mile pace. My heart was pumping! We slowed down a little, but certainly not to an 11 minute mile pace!

Jen, I'm totally kidding. I'm so glad we got together to go for a run. You definitely made me push myself and that's a good thing! See you next Sat.

Pre-run picture taken by Jen's husband. He ran too, but was way faster than were. :)

another congrats...

2009-01-09T17:10:00.001-07:00

Kristi gave birth to beautiful baby girl Reese on Tuesday night. She's just perfect. Congrats!

get your crunch on...

2009-01-05T10:19:00.002-07:00

A friend passed along this crunch/push-up plan that is sure to get my once rock hard abs back to their best. Every day you do the amount that is scheduled for that week. Here's to a beach bod in the middle of winter.

week 1 : 100 crunches/10 push ups
week 2 : 200 crunches/20 push ups
week 3: 300 crunches/30 push ups
week 4 : 350 crunches/35 push ups
week 5 : 400 crunches/ 40 push ups
week 6 : 450 crunches / 45 push ups
week 7 : 500 crunches /50 push ups

Thank you to the hot body who invented this little sched.
You in?

I'm a gal who loves a cute running outfit...

2009-01-03T20:08:00.004-07:00

...And that's exactly what my big sis got me for Christmas. She got me these in Tar/Clay Green and this sassy number in Clay Green/Matte Silver. Both from Nordies. Can't wait to try them out.

I also love a great run like this morning's-- bright blue sky, white, fresh, sparkly snow, great company, and good tunes. I heart winter training.

The Huzzbin joined Tara and I for our long run today. He's signing on to run the full SLC Marathon with us. Ang was going to come, but the snow would have made driving most hazardous. Hope she comes next week.

And, just to make this post a wee bit more random, I want to start doing this. Already went to one class and it rocked my socks. Don't judge... join me! I've decided to make cross training much more a part of my training for this next race, and that is just what I think this body needs. Promise it's not what you think-- okay, it's not EXACTLY what you think.

Also went skiing for the first time this season on New Year's day. It was Huzzbin's first time ever. We took a private lesson (worth every penny). He rocked it. Can't wait to go again!

What are you doing to cross train?

Dear Everyone, Please Plow....

2008-12-30T11:49:00.002-07:00

We've been hit with storm after storm here along the Wasatch Front. And running in winter is my favorite time of year to train, HOWEVER, my runs have been quite trecherous as of late. I.e., husband and I went for a run Saturday morn and for the first 3ish miles, we were dodging cars because the sidwalks were impossibly uneven with several layers of snow and if you tried to run on them, you were sure to twist your ankles every other trot or so. AND, I think the cities have cut back on snow removal because of the recession, because WOW, there is almost no space along the side of the road between the snow and moving vehicles. So this is my plea. If you have a sidewalk, take a little time, get a workout, and shovel por favor. Then, bundle up and join me for a jog. I'd love the company. Hint, hint WRFDJ.

PS, congrats to Kera-- new beautiful baby boy Asher! She kept me up to date on the blessed event via text messages. I particularly loved the one that read "one push and he was out." Please, let me have a pregnancy like hers. And no, that wasn't a clue. Sorry to disappoint.

How are you guys doing on your training?

New race, new group member, new motivation...

2008-12-17T10:22:00.002-07:00

Hello readers (if there are any left),

Well, after trying over and over and over again to get everyone going again so I no longer have to run by myself, I think I have successfully convinced the ladies to train for the 09 SLC Marathon with me. We officially started training this week, and the first group run is Saturday. I hope everyone keeps it up! I get lonely out there by myself!

And, welcome to Ang from Marathon Mommies who is now a member of WRFDJ! She recently moved to Utah and is going to join us in training for the upcoming race.

So, here's to a fresh start! Gooooooooooo team!

P.S. Husband and I did complete the Snow Canyon Half Marathon in November. Race report to come soon.

Happy Running!

Will run for really good Thai Food

2008-10-15T13:37:00.002-06:00

******Originally posted from Kera's Blog.

Man, did I need a girl's night out.

We met at Thaifoon downtown, and had an absolute blast. It was so fun seeing the girls again- especially pregnant Kristie. I can't believe we are only 2 weeks apart! We ordered family style, which was great, since I didn't have any money, and sat and talked for hours. We walked around Gateway mall, and then went for hot chocolates at Barnes and Noble. We then continued to disturb everyone with our "girl" talk until they closed. It was awesome. I'm going to be outnumbered at home for next the few years, and it's easy to forget how essential good girl friends are.

I love you guys!

The crew, plus one beached whale in taupe.

I guess two weeks can make a big difference.
(I'm just going to keep telling myself that.)

so I know you'll think I'm crazy....

2008-10-12T18:45:00.002-06:00

But this snow storm has really got me itchin' for a good, long run. There's something so magical about the quiet of the snow--running through the crisp air with white sparkling all around me. I love the sound of my running shoes hitting the freshly fallen flakes, and the feeling afterward that if I can run through the winter, I can conquer the world. Tomorrow morning I'm planning 11 big ones along a pretty tough route with some hella-hills. Husband ran it yesterday and said it almost killed him. I, however, am feeling strong. Wish me luck.

I ran 10 miles....

2008-10-08T20:56:00.005-06:00

On. A. Treadmill. If any of you have done this, you know how incredibly boring it is. I didn't dare run outside in the dark again, so I turned on HGTV (because basically, no matter what is on, I get sucked in like a moth to a flame) and just sucked it up and started running. Well, over an hour later, I had finally made it. That's my longest run for this race thus far.... here's to 11 this weekend. I have some work to do before I am as fancy-schmancy as these guys tho...

And, PS, I had a dream last night that it took me 7 hours and 52 minutes to complete the SLC Marathon next year. I was working out of town and had been drifting in and out of sleep-- I never sleep well in hotels.

In dreamland, by the time I reached the finish line, there wasn't a big crowd to cheer me on, just a few disgruntled volunteers who said "Geesh, it took you long enough. We've been waiting to clean up while we waited FOREVER for the last runner!"

I woke up in a panicked sweat at 2:30am in my lonely hotel room, with no husband there to say "it was just a dream. You're much faster than that, honey."

Please, tell me this isn't a sign of things to come next year.

This.....

2008-09-30T20:44:00.002-06:00

Is what I've felt like trying to run as of late. No energy, feeling like I weigh 80-million lbs, with big "F" for Fattie on my chest. Thoughts, ideas, advice? All is welcome.

Stranger Danger

2008-09-25T19:00:00.002-06:00

I love running at night. It's always so quiet, peaceful, with the moon shining down and the stillness of the darness. But, I shall not be running at night for quite a while, at least not in deserted parks after my run last night.

Husband and I both had things going on all day and finally decided to go out for our run around 9:30pm. We are at different paces (as I have mentioned before, husband runs at a completely unfair speedy pace he doesn't deserve) so we thought Sugarhouse Park was a pretty safe bet. It's a big loop, so we could run at our own paces, but still run together.

We drove to the park, parked on one side, and started off. I was keeping up with him for almost two laps, then I started getting a side ache and stopped for a minute. When I picked back up, I started noticing dark figures in the grass, people who for reasons I don't wish to know, like lurking in the blackness, a handful of drivers sitting in their cars with the windows rolled down, smoking cigarettes and staring. My mind immediately went to a story my station did recently on Cruising in local parks, including Sugarhouse. If you don't know what that is, ignorance is bliss.

Just as I ran through a narrow part of the path, lined with cars, the street lights went black, leaving me completely vulerable surrounded by creepy strangers and I started to panic. I heard a voice in my head say run-- fast! It's not safe for you here! I searched frantically, and couldn't see husband. I started to sprint. I sprinted up that massive hill, down the other side, and all the way to the car and still couldn't see husband anywhere. I waited by the car for several minutes, debating my next move. I still had one more mile to go, but didn't dare go back to the complete darkness. I started to sprint again, back the other direction, thinking surely I would run into him soon. My heart was pounding, and not from running so hard. I ran back up another huge hill, and finally found him. I grabbed him, with tears streaming down my face. I was worried something had happened to him because it was taking him so long!

So, lesson learned. No more running in dark in deserted areas.

Don't worry....

2008-09-24T11:11:00.002-06:00

I'm still alive, and still running. Tho, not many other members of the group are right now. Everyone is too busy having babies and living out of state, so I have enlisted another running partner: my sweet husband. We are signed up for the Snow Canyon Half Marathon in November, and he, of course, is already beating my time. I hate boys.

Anywho, I've decided I'm going to start blogging again, whether the other girls are or not.

Got some new running shoes and have a really fun run planned for this weekend, our anniversary:) Blog post to come.

How the heck are all of you? If you're even still checking this blog?

Another one bites the dust...

2008-07-04T12:38:00.001-06:00

Took off my shoes last night and noticed something was different.... yep, that's right, I lost another toenail. No idea where it went. Hope someone doesn't find it somewhere embarrassing. The good news is it didn't hurt one bit. Didn't even feel it.

Runners are so gross.

Wasatchin' My Back...

2008-06-23T21:56:00.017-06:00

Well, in case you were unsure of the following fact, this last weekend's event proves I am crazy. I ran in a relay race from Logan to Park City, a whopping 180 miles non-stop over two days. But I'm definitely not the only one lacking in sanity-- the Wasatch Back was sold out this year, with 500 teams of 12 members each. However, I'm pretty confident my team was the coolest:)

Hot Assphault-- that's our team name. I got hooked up with them through my sister's next door neighbor, Dave. He and his wife are AMAZING super runners (both have run Boston, and his average marathon time is somewhere around 3:40. Sh-yeah, I know, right?). He had someone on his team drop out about a month before the race and asked me if I would join them. My first reaction was one of fear-- not of the race, but more of slowing them down! I mean, I'm no 7 minute miler. He assured me that his race wasn't in it to win it, more just to have a good time, and I reluctantly said I was in. And I proceeded to freak out just about every day until the race.

However, all freaking out subsided when I attended a team meeting the week before the race and met everyone. Everyone was really cool and laid back. Apparently there is a lot of Hot Ass (phault) to go around because they had so many friends running the race, there were two full teams: Hot Assphault 1 (my team), and Hot Assphault 2. After the meeting, I started to get really excited!

Race week I had every good intention of resting up, preparing mentally and physically, and carefully preparing my race gear. All of these plans flew out the window when night after night, I was forced to stay at work late-- one night until 2:30 am. The night before the race, I finally dosed off around 1:45am, and woke up startled at 4:45am. I gathered my stuff and drove to Dave's. We were set to leave at 5:30.

Our team started arriving and the introductions began:

Dave, super-running insurance company president, father of two, with a wicked sense of humor and an uber competitive streak.

Mark, Dave and Mike's BFF since high school, a reluctant runner with the humor to match Dave's.

Lee, the only other girl, a mother of one who kept me laughing the entire race with her stories and Lee-isms.

Brent, a 59-year-old inspiraton. He's run 84, yes, 84 marathons and had just finished one the weekend before Wasatch Back. We called him Papa. Seriously, amazing man!

Buddy, the son of Brent. Father of 4 who himself has run nearly 20 marathons. Such a nice guy!

Mike, BFF of Mark and Dave also since high school, our trusty driver and organizational master! He gave us treats, fan and sprayed us down, kept us on time, and got out to give us water at every other mile!

And Me, newcomer and completely clueless of the exhaustion/running/awesomeness that was coming!

We hit the road, all abuzz of the race to come. Each team consists of 12 members. The members are divded into two vans of 6 runners. Once Van 1 cycles through each runner, Van 2 takes over, then the process starts over until we have made our way to Park City. Someone is always running-- day/night/heat/cold. It doesn't stop.

Our start time was 8:20am in Logan. Our runner order was as follows: 1-Brent, 2-me, 3-Dave, 4-Lee, 5-Buddy, 6-Mark.

Brent was all business as he headed to the starting line. We all gathered around to cheer as the countdown began. It was so exciting as they took off, starting what would be the craziest relay across a portion of the state I have ever seen!

We hopped in our awesomely decorated van and followed alongside Brent. The vans leap-frog their runners, making sure they are hydrated and doing okay during their runs. I was nervous as we neared the end of Brent's first leg, for I was runner #2 and that meant my first leg was up next.

I stood in the shoot, arm out, waiting to take off the second I felt that orange wrist band slap on. As Brent ran closer, I geared up and then, I was off, on my first stretch of the race: 6.7 miles.

It was around 9:20am, and the weather was quickly heating up. The first few miles were fairly flat, and I was cruising along.

However, an annoying herditary problem would soon set in. I don't sweat. I know most would see this as a benefit, but I have a serious issue with over heating. I knew if I didn't spray down soon I would be in trouble. Just then, a van full of guys came by with their supersoaker and asked if I wanted some refreshment. I hollered "Spray me, baby!" And so they did, every time I saw them throughout the race. Bless them:)

I could see a rather large women dressed as a warrior princess several miles before me, and I knew she was toast. I could totally pass her! I was gaining ground and saw her starting to walk. That's when I went in for the kill. I had conquered the Zena impersonator! I gave a victory cheer as I rounded the corner and saw my team, waiting with water in hand. I breathlessly said "I passed the chubby warrior princess!" They all applauded!

I passed a field where a farmer had written "To cash in on life, you have to make a deposit" on signs along the road. I smiled as I ran... but that smile ran out the second I saw the first big hill of the race, and it was unfortunately all mine. "Here I go!" I thought as I started up the slope.

Up, up, up I went, slowing a bit, but I didn't stop running. I was nearing the top when I saw my team again, ready with the spritzer and water bottle. And then, I started the lovely decline toward the exchange, where Dave would take over from there.

I sprinted toward the shoot and handed off successfully. Hooray! First leg finished!

Each runner successfully completed their first legs, and we were on fire! (hence the hot assphault:). Mark, our last runner, handed off to our Van 2 to take over from there, and we decided to go and get some grub. We had about an hour and a half or so before we would be up to run again. We headed to a local deli and I don't know if it was because I was so tired and hungry, but man, that was the best sandwich I have ever tasted!

My next leg was supposed to be my easiest: 3.1 miles. Whomever makes these classifications certainly doesn't actually run them. The leg had a rather large hill, but I think the part that made it the most difficult was not the hill, but the heat. I was running in the blazing sun and started to get heat exhaustion at the top of the hill, as chills started to set in. I diverted and ran through some random front yard with the sprinklers on, and started sprinting toward the finish line, where Dave again would take over. Wowza, it was a hot one! I don't know how sweet Brent did it running in that heat 8 miles! He is a superhero!

Lee was keeping great time, and had an awesome pace on one of her legs of around 8:30! And Dave and Buddy, well, that's where we were really able to gain some ground. They are so fast, and Dave said after 40 people during his first leg, he stopped counting how many runners he passed.

As our team continued to cycle through, nightfall started to settle in. Our last runner, Mark, bless his heart had to run the most terrible leg with endless hills that just kept coming! He was such a trooper. We headed to the rest station and Buddy, Lee and I went down to the tent to get some grub. Spaghetti from Fazoli's. We told the others we would meet them back at the van and proceeded to eat our nasty noodles, which again, tasted fabulously because of our level of starvation. Little did we know this meal would be the source of much anger lodged in our direction in what would become known as "Spaghetti Gate" in the wee hours of the next morning, but more on that later.

After dinner, we drove to Mike's boss's house to crash. I wanted to cry as I climbed into bed, knowing we only had about an hour and a half before we would be up and running, literally, again. After a mild case of the slap happy giggles, Lee and I dosed off, only to be awoken much too soon so a frantic "the team is on their last runner! We have to go NOW!" And so go now we did.

It was 3:00am, and although the rest of us were half asleep, Brent had his game face on. He started his last leg of the race in pitch blackness, as I tried to wake myself up and shake off the soreness. I was up next.

It was freezing cold when I started running, but that's perfect for me. The full moon was out, and I could hear birds chirping. It was absolutely beautiful as I ran through the little town of Oakleigh in the wee hours of the morning. I picked up my pace and was making pretty good time. I just tried to take in the beauty around me as I trekked through the darkness with my headlamp bobbing in the black. My team rolled up alongside me, and I figured their lack of enthusiasm was credited to the hour, but as soon as I finished my leg and handed off to Dave, I learned the real reason for the silence. Spaghetti Gate.

Apparently Dave didn't realize that the night before we were getting food while he was meeting Mark at the exchange. Lee let it slip that we were eating when she made a slight reference to someone at the "end of the table" during one of her stories, and that was enough for Dave to connect the dots.... dots that led to hot food for us, and PB&J for him for dinner... dots that at 4 in the morning are enough to make anyone agitated... and believe me, his dots were agitated. I missed said agitation because I was running, but once I climbed in the van and we caught up with Dave, the first words out of his mouth were "I'm hungry!" Mike offered to toss him a PB&J, but strangely, all he wanted was spaghetti. Sorry Dave, we'll get you a gift certificate to Fazoli's.:)

We cycled through our team for the last time with Lee, Buddy, and Mark picking up the rear end. I don't remember much of their final legs because my body decided since I was done running, it was time to shut down, and I completely crashed in the van, sleeping through the final three runs. It had had enough of all that non-sleeping all week, and lots o running the past two days. Coma set in.

I woke up as we passed the torch to our Van 2. We were finished with our part, and it was up to them to run the rest. We were two hours ahead of our projected time, and were so proud of our hard work!

Our group drove to a Van 2 member's cabin to crash, shower, and chow before the finish line. Lee and I immediately headed up to the shower (heaven when you haven't done it in two days:), and then slept for a few hours before getting in our fresh (and clean) running gear, and heading to the finish line.

All of Hot Assphault was gathered at the finish line waiting for our last runner to come in.... we could see her coming, and all started to cheer, then as a group, we all crossed the finishline together. 28 hours 18 minutes.

I had the time of my life and can't wait to do it again next year. Go Hot Assphault! I love you guys!

I guess I'm not the only one!

2008-06-10T09:14:00.003-06:00

I'm so sorry I haven't been able to make it to the Saturday runs girls! I am sad, but a little relieved to find out I'm not the only one with a crazy life right now. Every night has been PACKED with activities and my weekends have followed the same trend. Plus, with my baby still nursing, it's hard for me to go for very long. To be honest, leaving a husband with three kids is difficult as it is. I will be gone half the weekends in July to Myrtle beach too. ( though I fully plan on running beach side. . . .yea!) I am wondering if I am ever going to be able to meet everyone!
I promise I will make it whenever I can. But warning: I will be walking 90% of the time. I am sincerely hoping I am not the only one who will be doing so. I am NOT in shape and my cardio is at an all time LOW!
Anyway, I'm hoping to see you gals soon! And Jen . . .I need help shopping for running gear! I don't know what the crap I'm doing! "Newbie" at this running thing, remember?!

I am not quitting...just taking a break.

2008-06-09T08:45:00.002-06:00

So yes i was sleeping on Saturday Morning but what Melissa failed to mention is that I was drugged up on meds. I am just getting over a sinus infection so the mornings are a little snotty for me. And since I haven't perfected the "runners spit method" I thought maybe I shouldn't be out running and spitting up snot quite yet. Also, I have been asked to do some extra work on my Saturdays now, so I am not sure if I can train or not. I am not completely out, it will just be more like if I can make it, I will. Right now, I need to concentrate on my kids and making some extra money so that I can pay off some bills. It kinda sucks only having one income and trying to do everything by yourself. Actually, it really sucks, but that is life right now and hopefully it won't be like that forever.

What a sad day

2008-06-07T21:01:00.002-06:00

So today wasn't very fun for me. Tara tells me that she isn't going to run the marathon with me. This is pretty crappy for me since she was my running partner and all. I enjoyed seeing her on Saturdays and pushing each other along. Everyone else was always faster than us. How sad. That's life I guess. Now everyone else isn't showing up either. Maybe when the runs get longer we will have more come to run. Lets get to the bikes today at the park. Everytime I saw the pace car or whatever its called I would get scared because I knew the bikes weren't very far behind. Although I was pretty sure they would see me running on the side, I almost got hit a couple of times,well at least I thought I did. I would jump on the curb to make sure I didn't get hit. Then if that wasn't bad enough I had to run 4 times through a whole crowd of spectators waiting for the cyclists to come in. Although I enjoy races, this wasn't my race and I was quite self conscious the whole time. The last lap I ran through the playground just so I wouldn't have to run through that crowd again. As much as I've enjoyed this running group I know all things have to come to an end sometime. Everyone has different lives and different things come up. I just don't like change. I know it is just a part of life I just don't like it.

Today was hard....

2008-06-07T20:22:00.003-06:00

I couldn't get into my groove today on our group (tho it was a very small group) run. I believe there are several factors that threw off my rhythm, one of which was the girl shape-holes in my heart from our very missing members. It was just Melissa, Steph and me.... and a bunch of crazy cyclists, but I'll get into that in a minute.

Here's the non-roll call as of this morning when I got the last cancellation via text from Kera.

Kristi: still too hurt from the accident, bless her heart, to run
-1
Kera: Here is the text I got at 8:24 (meeting time 8:30) verbatim: Hey im so sorry i dont have contacts to run in and mac isn't home from work yet to take owen.
-2
Kimmie: teaching a swimming lesson
-3
Tara: as told from Melissa, she was sleeping and has decided her Saturdays are too busy to run right now.
-4
Angie: funeral and baptism this morning.
-5
Christina: out of town for a work conference in Miami.
-6

That left just three and the aforementioned bikers. Apparently the Salt Lake Cycling club decided they could close down Sugarhouse Park this morning and make our run more treacherous by zooming past us every few minutes during a race. Lame.

I have also been sooooooooooo crazy busy with life and work as of late that I haven't been the best about running on my own this past week. And, Wasatch Back is creeping ever so near, and I'm getting a bit, okay a lot freaked out.

So, bottom line, we missed you guys, and I need you back in my life, so stop being so busy/injured/tired/everything else already!

I've tried to fill the you-shaped holes with treats the past two weeks, and they just can't fill the void. Only you ladies will do.

Sugarhouse Park

2008-06-07T12:02:00.002-06:00

Thanks Melissa and Jen for a great morning run (in my case...walk). It was a beautiful day and it was great to see you both. I am excited to meet the rest of the group. Until next time! :)

Why is this happening to me?

2008-06-04T10:36:00.004-06:00

Okay so I was looking at my beautiful feet the other day and found two more toenails preparing to fall off. What the? I just started training, can you imagine how many more will fall off these next 4 or 5 months. Good thing its summer and I get to wear cute sandals! I am going to probably have to get acrylics on my toes now. Sweet!

Just the two of us...

2008-05-31T20:29:00.002-06:00

Well, this morning's run turned out most unexpectedly. Even though we've gained group members, our run consisted of just 2 ladies this morning; myself, and the lovely Steph.

I sent out the location and time email earlier this week like I usually do, and didn't hear back from anyone saying they weren't coming, so I assumed we'd be a full house. I had forgotten that Melissa had a garage sale, so she wouldn't be there, but everyone else, or so I thought, would be their usual wonderful selves at Liberty Park at 9am.

9am came and went, but I still wasn't worried. We are always late. Always. Someone is always running behind, okay usually almost everyone, so we always get a bit of a late start. Then, around 9:20, I started sending out text messages and making phone calls. Slowly, I started hearing back.... and, it ended up just being Steph and I, which is such a shame because the weather was perfect, it was a beautiful morning, and the park was irresistable.

I felt horrible, because Steph is so new that we are at dramatically different paces and I left her in the dust. So really, we both ran alone in the same park. Me and my thoughts, and the new Coldplay song. Loving it, btw. Great song to run to. Download it pronto.

Hope you'll all be back next week. Please feel free to post your excuses in the comments section.

Our group is growing....

2008-05-30T18:43:00.002-06:00

Pleas join me in welcoming our new group members: Angie, Steph, and Christina. These are all amazing women who are sure to add some new flava to our already stellar group. So excited!

I am stoked

2008-05-27T20:59:00.002-06:00

I am so excited to have our group together and to be doing something on my Saturdays again. I so enjoy having a goal and working towards it with these girls. I have already seen a change in my outlook and attitude since I've been running again. I'm excited that we are going to be doing two races. People used to ask me what my hobbies were. I would say well I like to watch tv or I like to... I don't know. I could never think of any. Now I am proud to say that running is my hobby. I don't really like the whole running part as much as I like the feeling of accomplishment. Well sometimes I like the running part. Anyway I'm grateful to be apart of this group. We are all different but we are all runners.

New...

2008-05-25T23:44:00.003-06:00

There's something wonderous about starting fresh... with a new goal, new group members, new running gear, and new hope. We here at WRFDJ started anew on Saturday, and I am already filled with a sense of anxious anticipation for the many miles that lie ahead... for this time I am an experienced marathoner, and know what to expect. But, we have some newbies in our group, and for them this will be a new journey.

Our group, though incomplete on Saturday (we missed you Kristi, Kimmie, Tara, and Angie!), is already starting to meld. Steph is a welcome ray of sunshine, and Mel and Kera, I'm so excited to be on this road with you once again.

Our new race goals: Top of Utah in September, and the Provo River Half in August. And, I have apparently lost my mind because I kind of agreed to run the Wasatch Back with my next door neighbor's team. They lost a member recently and even though the race is less than a month away, I said I'd be the fill-in. It's a relay race from Logan to Park City, over two days. Yes, you read correctly. I know, crazy.

So, here's to newness-- new experiences, new blisters and sore muscles I'm sure to feel for the first time, and new aspirations!

Mommy!

2008-05-25T10:04:00.002-06:00

Whoa! I am so sore today. So glad today is an "off" day as I can barely move.
All for designer jeans....it's worth it, right? ;)

First Run.....In About 5 Years

2008-05-24T13:00:00.002-06:00

First of all...thank you so much for allowing me to be apart of your running group! I was feeling a little nervous because it has been so long since I have run or been active at all...but I was totally put at ease by my new friends. Thank you, thank you! It was so great to meet you Melissa, Kera & McCormick. I am so excited to meet the rest of the group. What a beautiful day it was and looking forward to the challenges ahead.
To Designer Jeans!!!!

my toenail fell off.

2008-05-23T07:59:00.000-06:00

It's about time.

First Run

2008-05-12T08:29:00.002-06:00

Saturday morning was my first official run since the marathon. I still have all my toenails and my kneecaps are still attached, so I thought I would give it a try. I went for an hour along Wasatch Blvd. The weather was beautiful and I really enjoyed myself. I am going to start training for the Top of Utah half. I don't know if I'm crazy, since I'm going to be very pregnant, but whatever.

Miss you all girls and please let's plan another lunch or something.

Race for the Cure

2008-05-11T00:11:00.006-06:00

Jen, Kimmie, Melissa, and Tara. Love these girls!

It was a beautiful morning for a race, and several things made this race particularly wonderful. First, some of my girlies were there: Kimmie (+boyfriend:), Melissa, and Tara (+cute son:). The weather was pur-fect (crisp and sunny), and we were running for a good cause-- breast cancer research. 19,000 peeps showed up. Wowza, more than the marathon!

But, my favorite part of the race? The team names. Gotta love names like "Save them all, BIG and SMALL," "Harleys for Hooters," and "Team Tatas." Love love loved it.

So uh, what now?

2008-05-10T23:43:00.008-06:00

This is a rather disgusting confession. Brace yourself for the nausiating details that are sure to follow. Ready?

I am a picker. I pick. Scabs, zits, dry skin, you name it. If it's pickable, I'll pick it. Yes, even on other people.

Some would say this is gross, I say it's handy. But, it's definitely somewhat of an addiction. So, you better believe I've been working on that loose toenail since marathon day.

Let's take a trip down memory lane, shall we? As you will recall, several toenails on both feet turned black in Mid-March. Below is a picture of the blackened toenails around that time. Yes, I've been documenting their life and death. Notice the blackness on both feetsies' pointer toes.On my marathon day, April 19th, it seems said black toenails thought mile 16ish would be the perfect time to start lifting and making what would inevitably be a permanent departure from my foot. They caused me much pain and suffering on race day, and turned my socks a lovely shade of crimson (yes, blood). Real nice.

Well, since race day, they've been holding on for dear life by a thread... a thread of skin. And here's where it gets gross... in case it wasn't gross already.

One toenail in particular has been lifting at a rapid pace-- much faster than the others, and so I have concentrated much of my picking on it as of late. Yesterday I noticed I could lift it all the way up, and look down at skin never seen before. It's like a whole new world down there. Here is a photo of such lifting.

Well, this morning I ran race for the cure. Yes, toenails weren't participating, and bothered me the entire time. And so I had a dilemna... do I yank it off? Do I leave it alone and let it continue to look disgusting and cause me pain? I tried my best to just leave it be and let nature take its course, but it's been nagging me all day, while I've been at work.

And so, tonight, just a few minutes ago....

I pulled it off. I don't know if you can tell there's just pink skin left there now... no nail. It didn't hurt, it just gave me sort of a shock to see the gaping hole on my second biggest little piggy, like an empty eye socket just waiting for a glass replacement. Sadly, I don't think they make glass toenails, and so I am hopeful a fresh new nail will soon grow in it's place.

And do I keep the now detached nail, sort of like a missing tooth? If I put it under my pillow tonight will the running fairy come and leave me money?.... or acceptance to the St. George Marathon? (wishful thinking:)

So, calling all toe-nail-less ones who have limped the path less travelled before me. My question is, so uh, what now? I don't know how to get my cute pedicured toe-nail-ful feet back. Assistance needed in the repulsive isle. Yeah, I'm gross. Awesome.

Stupid St. George Lotto Meanies....

2008-05-09T20:16:00.000-06:00

We didn't get in! I'm convinved it's because we're entirely too hot for them, and they're concerned we'll raise the already toasty temperature on race day to an unbearable level for the other runners. Aw well, congrats to all you who got in. Guess we're not cool enough for school.

So, looking ahead already... ideas for other marathons in the fall? Maybe Top of Utah?

I'm going to sulk for the rest of the night with a cookie-dough shake from Sconecutter. So there, St. George.

Worth Every Mile....

2008-05-06T22:37:00.020-06:00

Well, we did it. We finally rewarded ourselves for our many miles, months, missing toenails and protesting muscles. We bought ourselves some sexy designer jeans. Oh yeah, baby.

We met at Paradise Bakery, the place it all began when we first met to talk about running a marathon so many months ago. Then after good conversation and cookies, it was on to the main event: picking our reward.

Take a look at our selections.... and btw, the dressing room attendant wanted to punch us in the face with every picture taken because it was a busy night at the Nordstrom Rack. But, come on, how could we NOT document such a momentous occasion?

I love love love these ladies, and can't wait for our next training schedule to begin. Until then, I will strut my stuff in my new jeans and feel so great about what we accomplished, and the friendships gained.

I must be insane

2008-05-06T11:03:00.002-06:00

I can't believe Jen actually talked me into this. Ever since I agreed to register for the St. George Marathon, I have felt nauseated. WHAT was I thinking? I have never been able to run one mile. What makes me think I can run a blasted marathon? So my adventure begins. I hope I can prove to myself that this is a possibility for me. Bad knees and all. First a trip to get the right gear (again I have no idea what I'm even looking for) and then taking that first step onto a treadmill or pavement. I'm getting anxiety just thinking about it.
Even if I don't make it all the way to the marathon I'm hoping this will lead to a healthier life. I needed to make this commitment to give me a push into the right direction. (Thanks Jen for being the "Push")
I had no idea that by agreeing to register yesterday on the phone to Jen that I would get on the blog this morning and find my picture and profile as the newbie of WRFDJ. I guess there's no turning back now! Toenails, . . . I send my apologies now.

Here we gooooooooooo!

2008-05-05T23:07:00.002-06:00

Yep, we did it. Melissa, Tara and I signed up for the St. George Marathon lotto. And, I think I've convinced my dear friend, Angie, to join us. WRFDJ is already gearing up for another big race, and yet my poor toenails still haven't recovered from the Salt Lake Marathon. They're hating me right now.

So, here's hoping (sort-of nervously) that we get in! I do have to say, I've missed training these past few weeks and really can't wait to get going again.... just didn't think I'd be thinking about another marathon this soon. But ready or not, here we come!

What do you do when your car breaks down and you need a replacement?

2008-05-04T12:45:00.004-06:00

You run, literally, to the car rental place and get another one. You should have seen the look on the clerk's face when I jogged in out of breath. She said "we do have a pick-up service, you didn't have to run here!" I replied, "I like to run." She still didn't get it. I'm thinking all of you will get it, though.

Runner's Anonymous

2008-04-28T11:30:00.004-06:00

Hi, my name is Jennifer, and I'm addicted to running.

It may seem like a weird thing to become addicted to, but for someone who doesn't drink., doesn't smoke, has never tried drugs, and for pete's sake, doesn't even drink carbonation (except for the occasional root beer or red cream soda, I can thank my father for that addiction), running gives me a high that my body and mind crave. It truly is a form of meditation for me.

Like a true addict, I already know that although it has only been a week or so since the marathon, I am hooked. I need another race plan to get me going again. I have not quite decided what race will be next.... if I'm up for another marathon this year (say, St. George?) or if I should do a half....

Thoughts? Input? And, I'm tossing the invitation open to you.... if you want to join me on my next running quest for designer jeans, let me know! We usually do our long runs on Saturday mornings.

Here's to another amazing race! Can't wait to get training again.... yep, I'm an addict. But at least I'm not in denial.

It's been awhile....and I'm awesome.

2008-04-24T10:23:00.003-06:00

So I was wondering why I was getting so nauseated the week before the race. Why I threw up the day of. Well of course it was because I was nervous...but it's also because I'm 5 weeks pregnant. And that's why I'm awesome.

So hooray for me! I guess I got exactly what I wanted- a baby for after the marathon. How cute.

Anyway, the race was good. It was so fun to go to the Marathon Mommy party the night before. What amazing women you all are!!!

The morning of I got dropped off by Mac, and got to stretch and listen to Mama's (really bad) Fake Temple Choir. Some guy even recognized me from the news.

I started off with Jen, but lost her within the first mile. But I enjoyed the run by myself and got to see Mac and Owen, Kristie and Kimmie at Sugarhouse. I was chaffing in between my legs (what the freak) and my knees were already killing me, but they were so cute to encourage and support me.

I rubbed some Butt Paste on (thank goodness for diaper bags) and kept going. I saw more family at 2300 east and 4500 south. My knees were really slowing me down, but I still kept going. Then on 6200 South I saw Mac and my family again, and I had to stop from the pain. These two older women were running behind me and stopped to ask if i was ok. Mac got me some MyoMed and they asked if they could have some too. My father-in-law gave me an Ibuprofen and they wanted one too. We finally had to tell them that my family weren't volunteers, and they were so embarrassed. It was funny. They were so nice though and told me they'd be watching out for me.

I kept going and got to see cute Kristie at VanWinkle. I passed the Brazilian band and thought that was pretty dope. My knees started feeling better, but I suddenly was surprised at how tired my quads were. I kept going despite wind, and dust and sweat and pain. When I got to mile 24 I was so tired that I was fighting back tears. I kept passing and then falling behind the same group of cute people. We were in this vicious cycle of passing and then having to stop.

A woman ran by me and asked if we could run each other in. She told me that she was on track for Boston, but got turned around where the 1/2 and full split and went 5 miles off course. She was a veteran and was so nice to encourage me the last bit.

It was amazing to run through the finish line and see the people that support and love me the most. Thank you to everyone who made this day possible for me. (and i guess little embryo).

I also finally started a family blog so check it out if you are cool.

It's official

2008-04-23T11:09:00.005-06:00

My toenail fell off. I knew it was going to soon.It's been sore for a while. I went to the doc yesterday about my knee and he gave me some advil and told me not to run for 10 days. I thought I would like being told not to run for ten days but I didn't. I thought my knee was worse than he said but today it feels ok. I have been wondering what I'm going to do now that I'm not training. I had kind of a let down after all the excitement on Saturday. So I decided to keep training. I'll start out with just short runs but I think I need to keep going.I need a goal and I like how I felt running the race. So instead of waiting, I'll keep going. I'll be there for the 5k in May.

Race for a Cure

2008-04-22T12:27:00.003-06:00

So, I know I just finished a marathon, but I'm already thinking ahead to our next race here at WRFDJ. Who's in for a nice easy 5K for a good cause? Race for a Cure is May 10th at Gateway. I've already created a group for us under Will Run For Designer Jeans. Even if you're not a current team member, now's your chance to catch the running bug, and benefit breast cancer research! Come on! We can do it!

Click here to register.

Seriously....

2008-04-21T01:25:00.001-06:00

This is how I feel. Please, make it stop.

I am a marathoner

2008-04-20T10:40:00.004-06:00

The roar of the crowd, and my best friend by my side as we sprint, hand in hand, toward the finish line with our goal time on the clock. This is what I have been visualizing for months-- what I believed would happen on April 19th, 2008 as I ran in my first marathon in my hometown of Salt Lake City. Recently I have had to make some adjustments to my vision, the biggest of which was the realization that I would have to run it alone; Kristi's injuries from a car accident were too severe for her to run with me. And, that was a hard adjustment to make.

The week before the race: I was taking it easy. I have been nursing a few injuries and didn't want to worsen anything before the race. I was eating a lot of pasta, and planning my day meticulously. I laid out everything, making sure it was all in place. I even went tanning so I would be sure not to blind the other runners-- you know, because I wouldn't want someone to blame a bad time on me because the glare was blocking their view to the finish line. I felt prepared, and confident.

All of that confidence went out the window the day before the race. I kept getting flits of butterflies and couldn't believe I was ready for the journey that was ahead. Seriously? I could run 26.2 miles, by myself? It was so hard for me to believe.

The night before, I went to the Marathon Mommies Pasta Party, and oh, how great it was to finally meet the sweet faces of wisdom and encouragement who leave little "you can do it" posts on our page. I feel like I already know all of you! Thank you for your kindness, it means so much to us here at WRFDJ!

That night I went to sleep, after checking my alarm clock, garmen charger, ipod charger, and cell phone charger approximately 5,000 times, filled with excitement, nerves, and anticipation. And so, here is my marathon day report:

2:02am: "Oh no!!!!!" I thought. "My alarm didn't go off! Didn't I check it?!?! I am going to be late!" I blindiy grabbed in the darkness for my clock, and through my squinted eyes could see it was still too early for me to get up. I checked the alarm, yet again, and tried to go back to sleep.

3:34am: Pretty much a repeat of the 2:02am experience, only with a little "if I keep waking up, I'm not going to be able to keep my energy up tomorrow!" panic thrown in.

4:37am: "Okay, it has got to be time to wake up now!" I thought, and it was pretty close, so I just turned off the alarm I had so carefully checked repeatedly. Didn't even need it. My body and mind were already alert to the fact it was race day. "Here I go," I thought.

I put on my carefully selected running clothes (my WRFDJ shirt, gray and blue running shorts, socks, and shoes) and put my hair in a pony. I braided my bangs so they would be sure not to distract me during my run. I knew I would have plenty of other distractions. I then checked my bag. Garmen, check. Powergel, check. Phone, check. Utility belt, check. Ibuprophen, check. Ipod, check. I was ready.

I made myself my usual runner's breakfast of wheat toast with peanut butter and bananas, and headed out the door. I turned onto Van Winkle and saw police officers in place, preparing to block the road, and a huge smile spread across my face. I would be running along this road in a few short hours, and these officers would be there to guide my way. I rolled down my window and shouted "I'm running the marathon today!!!!" The officer threw me a thumbs up, the first of thousands of thumbs that would be thrown up in my direction, and I am so grateful for every single one.

5:50am: I pulled into Gateway and parked my car. I went to meet Melissa and Tara for our ride on the train to the starting line. They looked so adorable and cheerful! We crammed onto the overcrowded car and started to chat with people around us. It was all abuzz with runners-- some chatting nervously, others praying, some sleeping like the man wearing a fake mustache. Some people think running a marathon is not enough, they have to throw in some sort of gimmick or distinguishment. I will share a story of one such man coming up, and this man I'm convinced is insane.

6:45am: We arrived at the starting line. A rush of excitement filled me as I heard the gospel choir, saw the mile long port-a-pottie lines, and the thousands of other runners just like me, and suddenly I was in awe. How could it be there were so many people who had been through the sacrifice, pain, and dedication that I had all to bring them to this very moment where they were so close to accomplishing a life-long goal? I was so humbled by the human spirit. We are so strong and driven!

6:59am: I heard Sky2, our station's helicopter, fly overhead and knew we were close. Suddenly the countdown began, and everyone was yelling, and then BOOM, the crackle of the gunshot, and we were moving. Kera and I started out together, running down toward Foothill, and around the corner, as Tara and Melissa fell behind. We were smiling, and so happy to be in this together! It was just as we were curving onto Foothill I first noticed the aforementioned crazy man with the gimmick to top all gimmicks: he was running barefoot. And he had a full marathon bib on. The man was going to run all 26.2, on asphalt, with no freaking shoes on. WHAT?!?!?! Kera and I shook our heads in disbelief.

I was trying very hard to pace myself, to go slow and resist the urge to keep up with the speedie-gonzales' as I call them. I had a long way to go, and I wanted to do everything I could to avoid "hitting the wall" somewhere along my course. And when I rounded the corner to 21st south and started going downhill, I was feeling and doing great!

Sugarhouse Park was in my sight, and I was so excited-- Kristi would be there waiting for me. I then ran into Jared, my friend from KUTV who had done some of his training with WRFDJ, and he was a welcomed running buddie! As we ran toward the park, I saw my sweet girl, Kristi, with a giant pink poster, screaming my name and jumping up and down. Next to her, was Kimmie, who I was so surprised to see, and I suddening started to well up with tears. These two girls had put in just as much time and dedication to this goal as I had, and because of injuries weren't able to run. But, as hard as it was for them, they had come to cheer me and the rest of our group on, and I was suddenly even more grateful for their friendship.

After a few quick hugs, I was off again, running through the park, and that's when I ran into a Marathon Mommy-- Annie Bananie! She was doing so great! We chatted for a minute and then she left me in the dust. I love those ladies! Way to go!

On the way out of the park, Kristi and Kimmie cheered me on again, and gave me a boost that would carry me until I saw them again.

Jared and I headed up 23rd east, and watched the lucky half marathoners head in the other direction. And then, slowly, he started to inch ahead of me. And I knew, I was once again on my own. I stopped my music for a moment, and was suddenly consumed by what I heard around me: the sounds of feet hitting the pavement, cowbells from patrons, claps and cheers from complete strangers-- and they were cheering for me! I pulled off my headphones, and everyone I passed was looking directly at me, saying "You are awesome! Way to go! You're doing great! I'm so proud of you! You can DO IT!" I am tearing up as I am typing, because I was so overwhelmed by their kindness and encouragement. They don't know me from Eve, but there they were, all over the course, cheering me on as if I were their sister/daughter/mother/friend.

I started to notice the signs, posted all over and carried by fans. There was a giant sign posted on a garage that read "Spandex is Happiness," one someone held that said "Go (insert your name here)!" And, one that said "You can and you WILL!" There was a mariachi band, a family who had set up a table with treats for runners, and a boom box with YMCA blaring for all of us to dance along to. I will never forget these kind souls who were there along the course where my family and friends weren't, for they really were happy for me, and I thanked each one of them I could as I passed.

I was on Keller Ave when a nice man ran up from behind me and said "You're at the front of the pack, aren't you?" "Huh?" was my response. "You have other friends with the same T-shirt on, and they all said you were up here so I've been looking for you, and here you are! Way to go!" So sweet. I also had a girl say "Are you Jen?!?!? I read your blog all the time! I love you guys!" What a nice surprise from a reader-- whose name is also Jen. Thanks for reading and for the support!

It was on 23rd east when I first noticed what would turn into the biggest problem of my day-- the wind. It picked up around mile 8, and I mean it picked up. The headwind was against us, and I felt as though I were running through water. I tried to fight through it, and just when I thought I was gaining some ground, a dust devil came swirling past me, blowing dirt into my eyes. I turned my head, and saw an older gentleman to my right, breaking down and starting to walk. He said "F*^$ing wind! It's ruining my race!!" And, that's when I realized this was a huge problem.

The wind was against me for nearly half the race, and I exuded so much energy pushing against it, I knew it was going to affect me in the end. But despite the wind, as I hit the half way mark, I was right on target to meet my goal time: I crossed 13.1 at 2 hours 4 minutes. I was so excited! And then, around mile 16 or so, I felt something most unexpected... a sharp digging pain in my foot, and knew I was in trouble.

You know those black toenails I have? Well it seems three of them decided to make their long awaited departure during the race. But rather than coming all the way off, they just lifted, and were hanging by a thread, and pushing back into my toes, causing a jabbing pain. I could feel the blood seeping through my socks, and a couple of miles later, two nails on my other foot were feeling left out and joined the going away party. I ran the rest of the race this way.

On Van Winkle, several things lifted my spirits. The row of kids with outstretched arms wanting to give me a high five. The two guys who ran up along side me and said "You sound like you're ready to play marbles!" It was my little tube of Ibuprophen in my utility belt jingling. I hadn't noticed it making all that noise! The Latin band complete with dancers and a drummer. And, another appearance from my Kristi, who ran along side me, and gave me another boost of encouragement. I love this girl.

As I reached 45th south, I knew it was just a couple of blocks to 5th East and I would have another moral boost. That's where my family would be waiting. I could see the corner in the distance, and saw my dad chasing my nephew, Noah. I suddenly started to run a little faster. I turned the corner, and there they were-- my own little cheering section. I yelled for them, and then I heard my aunt say "There's our Jen!" Then my nephews and cousins sprung into action, running toward me, giving me hugs and hi-fives, and chanting "Go Jen! Go Jen! Go Jen!" My little Noah didn't want to let go of my hand as I blew a kiss goodbye. They ran along side me and chanted their cheer as I headed toward Fitts Park, and my eyes full of tears again. I loved my little cheerleaders. I later learned they had been practicing for my arrival.

I passed the park, and was a bit behind schedule but still in pretty good shape. 5th East seemed to go forever. Just before Liberty Park, I could see the pink sign again and knew it was Kristi. She had travelled to yet another location to cheer me on. She said "Jen, you're so close! You're almost there! I wish I was running with you!" And, I wished for that too. It's so hard to do it by yourself. Jon and Phil were there too. They all gave me hugs, wished me luck and said they would see me at the finish line. And, I raced onto Liberty Park. And that's where I hit the wall.

I've never hit the wall before. In all my days of training, I've never had a moment where I thought I couldn't go on, but with 3 miles left, my body started to shut down. My hamstrings started to cramp and lock, my stomach felt as though a giant was grabbing and twising it like a wash cloth, and my feet-- oh, I could see the dark blood under my shoes. I could see the time starting to slip away. I looked around, and saw other running roadkill-- people who like me, didn't know what had hit them and that's when something hit me, and this time it wasn't a wall, it was my vision-- with me and Kristi running together, and suddenly I didn't feel like I was alone at all. I imagined her saying "Jen, we can do this-- we're almost there," and I felt like she was with me. I mustered up everything I had and started to run again.

Those last three miles were truly some of the most trying moments of my life. I wanted to burst into tears, and I had to run and walk off and on for the rest of the race, but I wasn't giving up. I had come too far.

I could see Gateway before me, and I started to cramp, and it was then when an angel appeared. I thought maybe I was hallucinating, but a man, who looked like he could have run a thousand marathons came running toward me. He had already completed the race and was coming to cheer me on. He grabbed my hand and with a huge smile said "What's your name?" "Jen," I breathlessly said. "Is this your first marathon?" he asked. "Yes, it is," I said. And then he did something I will never forget. He put his arm around me in my darkest moment, said "That is amazing! I am so proud of you! You are almost there, and you CAN do this! " He guided me around the corner and said, "two more blocks-- run for it!" And so, I did.

I ran down the center of Gateway saying out loud "two more blocks, two more blocks!" I turned to the runners next to me and yelled "We're almost there! Way to go!" As soon as I came into view, my friends and family started screaming for me, and I threw my hands up in victory! I gave them high-fives, and started to sprint toward the finish line. In my head I could hear Kristi saying, "finish strong,' and so I ran for my life. And, I crossed the finish line.

Immediately I was supported by a sweet girl who asked, "are you okay?" I wasn't. I felt as though I might pass out. She said "oh dear, keep walking, are you going to barf?" It was possible, and so she walked me over to get my medal, and then held me up until I was okay to stand. She too was genuinely happy for me, and gave me a hug.

I am proud to say I finished before the man wearing no shoes, but I did not have the time I had visualized of 4 hours. It's okay though, I am proud I was able to push through my pain, and complete this goal. And Kristi, just tell me when and where, and we will run a marathon together. My vision won't change. This is something we have to do together someday.

And to all of you wonderful patrons who cheered me on as if I were family, all the volunteers who, God bless you, gave me water and gatorade, and to my own family and friends, who flooded with me text messages, emails, phone calls, and race day support, you will never know how much your love and kindness means to me. I am truly amazed by how powerful something like running a marathon can be. Thank you.

Today, I feel as though I've been in the ring with a sumo wrestler, and I can't wear anything but flip flops, but I am a new woman. I am a marathoner.

Looks like I made the right decision...

2008-04-19T18:00:00.002-06:00

The whole time I was thinking about finishing the half marathon I wasn't too excited. For one because I knew I had already run 13 miles in training and for two I was jealous of everyone who was going to do the full marathon. Here is how the events took place. Last night the marathon mommies invited our group to a pasta party. It was fun getting to know everyone that I recognized from the internet. Then I met Tara at the movies. We decided to see that movie "Run fat boy run". It was about marathon training, well kind of. Anyway it was funny though. I decided to spend the night at Tara's so I could get some sleep. Lettie hasn't been sleeping well again. So Adam was nice to take care of the kids for me last night. Poor thing didn't sleep very well with Lettie last night. Anyway so I set my alarm or 4:15 am and took a shower and actually fixed my hair before a run. After seeing the myself on the news I decided to be vain and fix my hair a little. Although this didn't matter because the wind was blowing like crazy during the run. So Tara and I left her house around 5:20 am and got to the Gateway mall to park our car and ride Trax up to the start. We met up with Jen and got on Trax which was packed by the way. It seemed like it took forever to get to the bridge we finally made it and found Kera waiting for us. We got in line with a whole bunch of people in front and then it quickly filled up behind us. I think we had about ten minutes to wait to start. It was so exciting to be a part of all of the action. The gun went off and it took a little bit for us to get going but once we did it was awesome. I remember reading somewhere to start out slow because you'll want to go faster because of the adreanaline. I think we went a little too fast at first. It was such an amazing feeling everyone running with a purpose to get to the finish line. Tara and I stayed together quite a bit. We had to walk some because of our knees hurting. We would only walk for 30 seconds at a time though. Anyway we were together I think until mile 8 or 9. Tara stopped to stretch. I asked her if she wanted me to wait and she said it was ok if I kept going. So even though I was a little sad without her I kept on. I was on the verge of tears most of the run. I was just happy and amazed at myself that I was running a race with all these people. I had my ipod on but in between songs I could hear the sound of everyones feet hitting the ground. It was a wonderful sound. Thoughout the race on the streets there were a lot of people cheering us on. There was this little old lady standing on one corner smiling so big. She looked at us and said, "you are doing great, I'm proud of you". I just loved that little old lady. Of course I almost burst into tears at that point too. Last night I put "What a wonderful world" on my ipod. At aroung mile 10 it started playing. I had another moment. I think I actually had tears this time. I was thinking about how great this day was because everyone was so positive and cheering each other on. I was thinking of how great things could be if every day were like this day. Not that I could run 13 miles every day but that everyone could be this happy and positive and work together for something good. I told myself then that I would strive to be more positive and strive to let little things go and just enjoy my life. Anyway so my knee that I hurt while I was training was starting to get a little sore at mile 11, but my other knee was hurting worse. I had to stop and walk a lot. I only allowed myself 30 seconds of walking at a time. It was so hard because I was so close. So anyway I kept going and I could see the Gateway mall (the finish). I was getting really excited and told myself that once I turned the corner where all the fans were I would run like crazy to get there. When I turned the corner I saw tons of fans on either side of me. It was awesome. I heard Adam yell my name and I saw three mohawks looking at me. He shaved Ethan and Garrett's hair into mohawks and spiked Lettie's hair into one. Although I was unhappy to see their mohawks, I was happy to see that Adam didn't shave Lettie's hair too. Anyway So right at the time I saw my family, I heard tons of cheering and yelling. I was loving it thinking everyone was cheering for me. Just then I turned my head to the left and saw three Kenyans sprinting and I mean sprinting to the finish line, they were finishing the marathon yes that's right The marathon in the time it took me to finish the half. I just laughed to myself. Those guys were amazing to watch. They stole my glory. Just kidding. I decided after seeing them to sprint to the finish. It was so great. In all of my sprinting I didn't realize that I couldn't walk. I limped to find my family and wait for Tara to finish. It was an awesome feeling. I didn't think it could be so good because I only did the half but regardless I loved it. I loved the adrenaline, I loved the feelings I had while I ran with all those people. I'm hooked on that feeling and I want to do more. Tara came in and we went and got free massages. I was limping around the whole time. She was fine and she was the one that had worse problems than I did. What a punk. Anyway while I was getting my massage the man told me that it felt like I had torn something in my leg. So yeah great huh? I was wise in just doing the half instead of the full. I decided that I will start training again in December for the SLC marathon 2009. Yippee. I now understand why people like doing these things. Oh what a feeling!!! There are more pics to come but here's a few of my mohawk kiddies.

The best commercial ever

2008-04-16T22:36:00.002-06:00

For any Discovery Channel fans out there...(me!) I saw this tonight and loved it.

Hopefully you can get inspired by it in your own way.

Talk about nervous!!!

2008-04-16T15:47:00.003-06:00

Ok, I'm so freaking nervous that it feels like my veins are about to explode. But I'm so happy to report that....I'm healed!!!

I've been going to the great therapists at South Mountain Physical Therapy, and they've been great. The doc told me today that I don't even need to come in tomorrow, that all the inflammation is gone. I'm so excited!!! I feel really good. Now I just have to figure out how to not throw up every two seconds.

OMG, OMG, OMG...three more days!!!

I'm getting really nervous!!!

2008-04-16T08:40:00.002-06:00

Ok...so my knees have been giving me some trouble for the past month or so. Everytime I run, one or both of them start to hurt. I went to physical therapy and they showed me all of these types of exercises and stretches. I have been doing them but I still feel pain when I run. I am really nervous about Saturday. Maybe I should't even run. I talked to a guy in my office ( who is an avid Marathoner) and he says that I should just try on Saturday but that it's okay if I have to be carried on a stretcher to the finish line. So now I totally picture myself doing just that! I am freaking out here! I feel like everything I have been trying just doesn't seem to help. Lots of advil, lots of icing, and lots of stretching. Maybe I am just not cut out to be a "runner". (Although, someone did call me a "runner" the other day and I kinda liked it!) I really do love running as long as my knees don't hurt.

My ladies are TV stars...

2008-04-14T00:09:00.004-06:00

So, there is one sure thing that will happen when you're #1 best friends with a news reporter, and #2 in a running group with one, and that is your lovely mug will end up on the evening news. And that is exactly what happened to my wonderful running group tonight. For those of you who missed the blessed news story on KUTV, you can watch it here. I would love to hear what everyone thought. I, for one, thought the girls did a fabulous job, and I appreciate their love and understanding for my usage of Kera's underwear comment and Kristi's hospital picture. Come on girls, cut me some slack-- I was on assignment! You all looked beautiful and inspired all of our viewers. Thanks for being such great sports!

The Official Breakdown...

2008-04-12T17:41:00.002-06:00

So I have always heard how emotional marathons were. I never actually realized that until I was involved myself. So, last night was my official meltdown.

It happened at about 11:00 at night. I had just taken a melatonin and gotten into bed. I knew that I wouldn't be falling asleep right away. I had an almost angry feeling, and it was so all over the place that I couldn't explain it.

Earlier this week, as many of you know, I went to what I thought was a sports medicine doctor to treat my pain in the sides of my knees. I was really looking forward to someone who would validate me and what I was doing and tell me that he would do everything he could (that day, even) to help me get ready for this race.

I should have known when I got meanie pants receptionists when I called to make my appointment that this was the wrong guy. I should have known when they didn't tell me what to wear or how long to plan on being there, or anything that this was the wrong guy. The bottom line is: he was the wrong guy. He only spent 5 minutes with me, told me that running isn't fun, and then told me to make another appointment for Tuesday. I was frustrated- did you really make me find a babysitter, run all around town, pay my co-pay to tell me you'll see me next week?!? Do you realize the marathon is next week??? I want freaking results now!!!!

My frustration turned into anger and quite honestly jealousy when I found out that Jen found this amazing guru that made all her problems go away. I was happy for her, but for some reason I was angry. I don't mean to sound like a psycho, but I'm just trying to be honest for the sake of my posterity. She told me that it was fine and that we live in America and I could see him too (not an actual quote), but it's too freaking late. I will call Monday, but I feel like it's too freaking late.

These negative feelings were also perpetuated by my newest pain the day after my dr. visit. My kneecaps were hurting so bad from absolutely nothing. I hadn't run the past two days, and now my knees were hurting in a completely different spot to the point that I couldn't bend my legs. What the crap.

So fast forward to last night again- 11:30. I got into bed and immediately got out ready to punch something. I went downstairs and sat on my couch and let out a cry that I hadn't let out since right before I got my epidural for my first child. It was an ugly cry for sure- with boogers, snot...the works.

So many emotions were swirling through my head. Utter frustration that my body isn't cooperating, my ego getting in the way because I told so many people and I might not be able to finish, nervousness and sadness that only 2 out our 6 will be running the full. I wanted to scream out loud but I couldn't. I heard my husband come down the stairs and I was glad. He is great at making me feel better at times like these.

The truth is though, few people know what I'm going through. I hope our fellow readers can forgive me for my weakness, and more than anything I hope you know what I'm going through. What a bond you are able to forge with someone when you are both doing such a momentous thing. We have a greater ability to just understand. I guess that's what I wanted my doctor to do, and I guess that's what I want everybody to do.

The marathon is such a unique test of character, will, and ego. I am finding that I just have to let mine go (it's huge) and do the best that I can knowing that regardless of what happens, I am forever changed from this experience and that I'm a better everything for it.

Here's to our last week before the race. I hope everyone reaches their own personal goals and has a safe, amazing week before the big day!!

Cheers.

Negative Ned

2008-04-12T16:10:00.002-06:00

This is a name that my friend's family calls her when she is being negative. I feel like my interview was a little negative today. I wish I could do it over again. I actually do like to run and I liked it even more so today. I think my good runs have a lot to do with the weather and whether or not I am running alone or with someone. Today on our last run together the weather was perfect. We didn't run very much but I enjoyed every bit of it. I even caught up to you Jen but you may have been going slower than usual. Thats okay it felt good either way. So what I am saying is that this has been an enjoyable experience for me. Even though I am not as close to everyone as ya'll are, I am grateful I was able to come in and join the group. I know I never wouldv'e done this on my own. Thanks girls for all of your help and guidance. Good Luck with the marathon! I am just a little sad I am running the half but I remember when I started this training I thought I couldn't even run a mile without dying. Look how far I've come. One day maybe I'll do a marathon too. Okay I know I will. I'm hooked. I don't know what I am gonna do with all my Saturdays now. I have to watch my kids!

I am a new woman... and runner.

2008-04-11T21:36:00.003-06:00

So, I've been having some issues. As in things preventing me from enjoying my runs. I know, you non-runners out there are thinking "why would you ever enjoy running?" but I truly do, and when something hurts, let me tell you, it puts a major cramp in my style-- literally.

I finally broke down (yes, sobbing the ugly cry at the realization I may have to run 26.2 miles in miserable pain, or worse yet, may completely destroy my body in the process) and made an appointment with a physical therapist. It was two weeks before the race, and I had to travel to Southern Utah for work for two days, so by the time I would get in for my appointment, I would have a week and a half to the big day. That's not much time to get myself in ship-shape and rehabilitate, but at that point I was desperate.

On Wednesday, I went into South Mountain Sports Medicine in Draper. I went in my running clothes and running shoes, not really knowing what to expect. The therapist, Charles, was WONDERFUL!!!!! He examined, and poked, and pushed, and prodded in all the hurtful places, then we got right to work making me better. I have plantar fasciitis in my left foot, and have been experiencing some pretty bad knee pain. He quickly determined it was my MCL, and that the plantar fasciitis in my foot was pretty severe. His crew went through all sorts of stretches with me, then massaged my injuries with what I believe is magic gel, then ultra-sounded my knee (no, there's no baby in there, just my knee. Sorry to disappoint all the Mormon women who are praying for my future offspring to make what they believe to be a long-awaited and over due appearance. Guess they'll have to continue to wait in Heaven, much to my wickedness and demise.) and then, they stuck little electro-shockers on my leg, strapped me up with ice, and proceeded to torture me by rubbing an ice cup on my foot, and holding me down so I couldn't squirm. Yes, it hurt and made me never want to look at an ice cube again, but by golly, it WORKED! That same day I was feeling much much much better, and today I went back, redid the whole routine, and once again, I am feeling BETTER! My foot feels like it's clearing up, and the pain in my knee has gone down.

Praise the Lord, give me some Hallelujahs, because I have seen the light! I've been healed! (okay, maybe not completely and miraculously healed, but they did save my marathon dreams, and I am eternally grateful). I am now recommending all of you go in and see this fabulous man and let him torture you so you too can feel pain free again! I am going in 3x next week, in hopes the healing will continue and I will be at 100% come April 19th.

I'm a believer!