Enjoying some quality time together

Here's to hoping you all had a wonderful Christmas and will have a happy New Year as well.

This week has been great. Aside from cleaning the house, de-cluttering, and making it look open-house ready for people to view, Logan and I have thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Not having work until next week when school starts back up, we have spent the mornings in my bed watching cartoons with coffee and a sippy cup of milk, Logan actually sitting between my legs and relaxing (which is not much like him at all), me reading a book off of my new Kindle. After a while we rouse ourselves and get to work on the day. Someone stopped by to see our house last night, and so I spent the entire day dusting, sweeping, shoving books and magazines in strange places. I've packed away a lot of things that we don't use frequently, away in bins in the garage. Summer clothes, regular clothes that I just can't wear anymore, our entire spare bedroom which has been converted into Logan's new room with his new race care bed. Although I've been on mission to get our house in order, I don't mind. It actually gets better as more gets cleaned, more gets put away...things seem more simple as I discard things to go to the Goodwill...and there is less stuff around. The process is actually meditative and soothing.

The days here have been gray for almost 2 weeks now, it seems, but I don't mind much because it is a break from the relentless, glaring sun and huge open skies. I feel more enclosed with this cloud cover, less vulnerable. I've gotten out for jogs/walks with the BOB when the weather permits and isn't too windy. I rarely go to the gym, and when I do, I only spend about an hour or so on the bike or treadmill and doing some light weights. If anything, by going there I give Logan some time to play with other kids in the daycare. Starting next week he will be back to seeing our friends' kids a couple times a week when we trade off babysitting for each other, and then a new boy and girl at a woman's house where he will go for just one day a week while I work.

For the next few days, though, we will continue to enjoy our time off, relax in the morning with no place to go, and savor the moments together.

Merry X-Mas Eve...some lost thoughts about life on this day

Lately, I have been turned off by going to the gym. I just can't force myself to go into that place, always crawling with the same people. Running on a treadmill or climbing on a stairclimber to nowhere...it seems ridiculous to me. Even lifting weights...it seems so fake and superficial and...silly. To repetitively lift these crafted weights when we could be lifting things like our children, boxes, laundry, wheel-barrows. I don't know. Maybe I'm looking for something more...simple. I think this recent turn-off to our gym is merely a small part of what I've been feeling lately. Sometimes I'm angry and almost sad at the world we live in, hoping to simplify things and live a life where I enjoy the small, ordinary things that go on rather than always push for more. More money, more house, more activities. These things don't even seem to make people happy. They are filling some void that still remains unless we fill it with awareness and thoughtfullness.

So anyway, not quite sure how I will deal with these issues as the world around me is increasingly plagued by a fast pace that the human brain is not actually programmed to keep up with (tid-bit from a teacher-prep class this past semester). Sometimes I wish I could be raising children 20 or 30 years ago...when things were less competitive and it was okay to have, well, and ordinary day.

Have a wonderful X-Mas and I hope that every one is grateful for what they have.

4 months of silence, but I'm breaking it!

I got through it. The semester has come to an end, I received A's in my classes, and I feel truly accomplished. However, through recent developments, it turns out that I will not be able to finish this program here in NM. It looks like we are planning to move back to NE in the near future (meaning, before I will be able to finish the program), and that I would have to teach under the license for 3 years here before being able to transfer it to Mass. or NH. So, needless to say, things won't work out here. I was bummed at first, yet, I think these are all signs that we are supposed to go live in NE. Various things have been going on, and I think it's time for us to end our stay in NM. I have put the house on the market, and we will try to get it sold before we leave, but if not, we have a free place to stay back in NE until it DOES sell (with family). Oh, and did I mention that I am 4 months pregnant? Yeah, there's another singer! I found out right after starting classes, and being plagued by excessive fatigue, managed to get through my studies and classes dealings with home life and work. Amazing, the things you can do when you put your mind to it. But I am glad it's all over, because now I can focus on my family, being home at night with them, and being pregnant. As for continuing my education, I will probably enter a Masters program once we get back to NE, as that is something that I can take with me everywhere.

As for fitness related things, the first three months of this pregnancy kept me down and out, and I did minimal exercise. I have been sticking to walking/jogging, stretching, minimal weights, and some yoga at home. Oddly, I have not gained as much weight as I did the last time. Having an active 17 month old attributes to that. Time for me to snarfle down some lunch, now.

I have been MIA

I have been MIA for sure. Just super busy and really trying to prioritize my life. Although I love writing, this blog took a back seat, and things will most likely continue this way. I  may post every now and again...something on a workout or a recipe or the like. I recently got accepted into an Alternative Teacher Licensure Program, so I am going full steam ahead on that one! SO EXCITED. So with a few classes, work, babysitting my friend's kids one day a week, and school work....oh and child and husband...I have been focusing on what's most important.

Happy running, eating, training, living!

BDay Cake and Getting Ready for New England Vaca

Happy hump day!

Where do the weeks go? The days? The month of July? :::sigh::: Almost end of summer and then back to school/work mid-August. I can't say that I mind...I'm actually looking forward to getting back to work. I have my babysitting set up so that Logan will be w/ grandma and a friend on the 3 days that I work, so I'm not relying on daycare anymore. If I need to work an extra day I may have to find someone who will take him as a drop-in, but that shouldn't be difficult. Super excited that he will be spending time with people I know and trust, and that I will be saving the extra money!

We had his birthday party, which was a huuuuuge bash, over the weekend. Lots of people, lots of food, lots of craziness...and lots of cake. Someone needed an immediate bath. Check it out.

So darn cute. :-)

So, from one thing on to another. We have company coming for a couple days this weekend, and then I am leaving on Sunday for New England. Yeyyy! Just me and Logey, hubs can't make it due to work. We'll miss him a looooot. But it should be good to get away :-) We'll be up at my parent's lake house in NH, then down to MA for a while...and then possibly to Cape Cod to visit my Grammie. Maybe get in some beach time? Logan hasn't been to the beach yet, so that'll be interesting. If you can't tell from the picture, he is Mr. Whitey. We'll have to bathe him in SPF. But, as I sit here, I am realizing I only have 4 days until we leave...hmmm. It's not like I have to clean the house, because Mike will be here and well...wait a sec, what am I thinking. He won't clean the house. So looks like I'll have to do some maintenance cleaning before I leave. As far as packing goes, I won't have to bring a ton since I'll probably wear the same thing every day (you know how vacas go...), so the real project will be packing for the boy. Ah well. I have a lunch date today with a couple friends, so the packing can wait.

Annnnnd on to EXERCISE. YES I still do that. It has been 100 degrees here lately, so running outside has just been miserable. I ran 4 miles on Saturday and thought I was going to DIE. I poured sweat for an HOUR after I was done, which never happens. Yesterday I did 600-800-800-600-400 on the treadmill. I didn't have my watch on, but I started out at 7:24 pace for the first 600, cut down to 7:19 for the next 2 800s, and then cut down to 7:03 pace by the end of the 600. The 400 was at 6:45 pace. I know. Looks a little inconsistent. I was trying to get faster each time, and my conclusion is that I could have started out faster, around 7:15 pace and then gotten to just under 7 minute pace by the end. I like to start slow(ish) and finish stong. Anywhoooo, today will be ean easier day, as I also lifted yesterday. Feeling a little sore today. Maybe a little walk/jog with the stroller and some yoga.

Okay, have a good day!

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Happiness Journal

I am soooo happy for vacas to see family and friends!
I am soooo happy for a good night's sleep (doesn't seem to happen anymore!)

Birthday Wishes to my Baby...and some yoga today

Today is my son's birthday - he is 1 year old! Crazy to think at this point last year I was in a whole helluva lot of pain, lol. But it resulted in this little cutie.

Sometimes I feel like the year went by quickly, but other times...not so much. People say that the days are long but the years are short. I think there's some truth to that.

Now, a whole year later, he is walking around and getting quicker every day. He'll be running before I know it, and then I'm really in for it.

So, on to another year here. Wish me luck ;-)

It's hot here today, or at least, it will be. No run for me today, as I am super duper sore from lifting over the last week. I really went at it to jolt my body awake, and it worked. So today I am going to get out for a walk before it gets too hot, and get some easy yoga in. Tomorrow I will get a run in - 4 miles. Nothing crazy. I've kind of been on a running hiatus the last couple weeks. Not sure why...do any of you ever go through that? I'm sure I will get back on it, but lately it has just been so HOT here that I find it unmotivating to run outside. It will be really nice once September hits. But that's not for a while.

I forgot to do a happiness journal last post! So here it is:

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Happiness Journal:

I am happy that I have a healthy, active baby :-)

I am happy for frozen berries from Trader Joe's.

I am happy for the healthy body I have that can take me all over the place and give me the energy I need to get through each day!

All over the place Saturday

Popping in for a quick minute here on this Saturday morning. I threw the kid in bed for a "nap", although it seems as though the napping part won't happen. The husband went out for a 2 hour ride and 1 hour run this morning, and just called me from his work to tell me he was alive. Apparently it was a little tough. He's trying to start building up miles and time for Ironman AZ 2011. It will be a big commitment, a lot of time spent away from home (when he already spends most of his time at work and training)...so it will be a lot to handle over the next year. Fine if we were single and childless, but that that's not the case. I am usually pretty good about giving him the time he needs to train etc...but I am struggling a little with this, as I know that it will be hard on all of us. I am trying to be understanding, and I really want him to train is butt off and do well so he can qualify for Kona. I'm behind him all the way, all the time. This will just test us all, I guess :-)

We have a bbq to go to this afternoon, and at this point I'm not sure if I'll get a workout in.

Yesterday I ran with the BOB for 35 minutes in the AM, and then lifted for 30 min at the gym. Then, around 5PM I picked Mike up from work and we put Logan in the backpack and went for a hike on the trails for 1.5 hours. Sooo...I got some good exercise in :-) Today I will try and get some stretching and pilates in. That will be good enough. I'd rather spend some time together with the fam since we don't do it often.

Still trying to find a 1/2 mary to run. I'll keep ya posted in what I decide to do.

Okay, and now off to make myself a bite to eat. Check you all later.

4th of July 8k

Hey all.

Well, it's Monday morning after the 4th, and I feel like I was flattened by a bus. Just totally whipped. Not sure why...it just sort of hit me. I woke up today and moved to get up and...ooyyy. Just exhausted. I didn't even run a long race yesterday - an 8k (never run one of those before...). Despite my fatigue, I'm feeling pretty good about my performance. Let me preface this little report by saying that I believe I hade 3 too many peartinis the night before. We went out for a drink and I ended up having 3. I wasn't hungover the next morning, just a little dehydrated? Ha. So, I feel as if I could have had a better race had I not consumed the alcohol (oh...and the 2 beers after those martinis, oops), and gotten more sleep. That being said, I faired pretty well. The race started at 7am...a little earlier than I would have liked, but fine. I went by myself, which I don't normally do, but Mike had to bring Logan to Grandma's so he could bike for 2 hours. It was kind of nice being there alone. Anyway, so we started off at 7, it was a beautiful day, a little high in humidity for NM. Nothing major, though. I headed out easy the first 1/2 of the first mile, and picked it up once I cleared ahead of the mass of runners. First mile came in at an even 8 min/mile pace. Not bad. I had originally wanted to run 7:45's, and I had based this on the fact that I can run a 5k at 7:24 pace, and my last 10k was at 8:07 pace. I think that estimate was a bit off, seeing how an 8k is closer to a 10k than a 5k....needless to say I ran slower than that. But that's okay. So, I continued running along, and kept an even pace of 8 min. miles for the 2nd mile as well. At this point I had picked off some more people, and was running behind one girl and practically alongside this 18 year old kid. He was big and muscley, and was breathing hard by this point. He stayed with me until about mile 3.5...where we struck up a chat and he was like, "if you would just slow down, I'd feel fine right now. But I'm trying to keep up." Then he asked if I wanted to slow down with him, to which I replied, no thank you! And I took off without him. Nice kid, though. At this point I passed the girl who was in front of me, and I was running alone for the remaining 1.5 miles. I was feeling pretty good, and was super steady at 8 min mile pace. My left hip flexor was beginning to bother me, though, because honestly? I haven't been running as much as I was this spring. And I have skipped track practice for about 3 weeks soooo....I was feeling sub-par. So, the last loop to the finish line came up, and I was pretty much ready to be done. There was a nice gradual half mile hill at the end, and then it flattened out. As I was running down the last stretch, a girl I had passed at mile 1.5 came speeding by me with her short little legs. I know her from the gym, and was like DAMN! I hate those people who have a good kick at the end. I personally don't have a great kick at the end, and so I just continued chugging along. I picked it up a bit when I saw the clock said 39:50....but alas, was unable to break 40 minutes. That's okay. I didn't have a goal for this race anyway, I was just pissed I got passed at the end, BOOO!

So, I finished, walked over to some shade and sat down (after retrieving water), and my heart was beating super hard and I was sweating martinis...err....bullets. Yeah. I think those drinks the night before were pumping their way out of my system. Yeck. I milled around, chewed on some bread offered by a great bakery at the race, and then hopped in my car to head home. Didn't stick around-didn't think I had placed because there were a lot of runners...a lot of women. Anywho, checked the results this AM and I ended up in 3rd in my age group - woohooo! Would have made 2nd if that GIRL hadn't scurried by me at the end. She beat me by 3 seconds. Bahh. But, I'm happy! 3rd in age group out of 18; 14th woman overall out of 128; 72nd runner out of 258.

Not bad! Didn't claim the prize since I left...maybe they can send it to me. If not, whatev.

Nice to know I can hang with the big dogs. Now imagine if I actually went to bed early and didn't indulge in too many beverages? Ehhhhh noooooo. That would just be boring!!

Hope you all had a wonderful 4th. We bbq'd afterwards, watched some fireworks along the horizon (since you can see for miles where we live), and crashed into bed around 11PM. Now I am sucking down coffee and shuffling around like an old woman. We'll just veg today. Back to reality tomorrow.

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Happiness Journal:

Today I will just HANG OUT as a priority!
I am happy for a good book.
I am happy for swimming pools.
I am happy for the atuo setting on the coffee pot (coffee MADE for me before I get up?!)

I AM a Runner

New love: Almond Butter. Why didn't any one TELL me it was so GOOD?! Picked some up at Trader Joe's yesterday. Nice for a change, since peanut butter had gotten old to me.

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My new little revelation: I am going to be happy to run shorter distances, and not agonize over feeling pressured to run a marathon or do a 1/2 Ironman. That's right, I said it! What is it with "runners" saying that you're only a true runner if you have run a marathon. That is such a bunch of BS. I have struggled with calling myself a runner or a triathlete because I didn't want those "real" runners or tri'sters to look down on me. Well guess what, I am so over that. If I can run a competitive 5k, 10k, and 1/2 marathon - which I can - than I think I am entitled to call myself a runner, right? Same goes for tri's...I have only done sprints, but those are valid in my mind. Marathons take a lot of time and commitment, and far too many weekly miles for me to even fathom right now. To be honest, I don't FEEL like running 20 miles on my Sunday. I would so rather work out as I please, maybe a nice 6 miler, and then have my day free for other important things (son, husband, friends, other hobbies). Maybe someday I will revisit the idea of completing a marathon, but for now, it's on the wayyyy back burner. And I am okay with that.

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Happiness Journal:

I'm going to take the little guy in the BOB for a 30 minute run BEFORE it gets to be 100 degrees out!
I will write one article today.
I am happy for 2 cups of joe in the AM!

Turning Over a New Leaf...? Maybe.

Happy HUMP day! I am here for a brief while, and then I am off to the gym. I find that I have phases where I work out a lot in the gym, and then other times work out a lot outside. Hey, it works for me so why not. Not sure what the workout will be today, but most likely some running on the treadmill (egh, I know, I know...it's just too damn hot out and I don't feel like pushing 50+ pound stroller either). I'm thinking, since I missed track last night, that I will do a track workout that is TBD. Regardless, I will get in some speedwork, which is always wonderful. Then I'll probably hit some weights, because I've forgotten how much I looooove them. And thennnn I will head out to the pool with the child so he can get some splashing in. Sounds like a rather enjoyable Wednesday evening to me, no?

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The beginnings of my stuffed portabellas

Ooookay. So speaking of turning over leaves, I have been tuning into my diet lately, weeding out bad food, and figuring out what I can literally "stomach" and what I cannot. I've been dabbling in the raw food diet because it not only intrigues me, but I think there's a lot of credibility to the whole idea. I have been definitely eating a lot less red meat, and I feel like it has totally helped my insides settle down. I stick to chicken and fish now, and those in lower amounts as well. According to Dr. Oz (why do I LOVE his show so much?!), only a quarter of your plate should consist of protein, and that is not at every meal. Half of your plate should be fruits/veggies, one quarter protein, and the remaining quarter should be nuts and herbs and whole grains. They actually put a whole bunch of food on a plate to show you what you should be eating, and it looks pretty damn good. Why would people eat anything BUT that?! Also, I have been looking into cancer-fighting foods. If it's possible to actually prevent cancer through the food we eat, it's insane to think that people haven't tackled this before. Apparently, women who eat broccoli or leafy greens twice a week have a 72% less chance of getting breast cancer. Sounds goood, right? It's a fact that Americans are at fault for much of their own sicknesses, obesity, and even cancer. How have we gotten to this - I thought we were a pretty smart nation (HA - that's a subject for another day...) Buying the right foods and thoroughly preparing them for our benefit is the only way to control our health, however, much of society has forgotten that we ARE what we EAT. I'd rather not be a meatball sub...ew.

Do you guys take the time and energy to buy and prepare healthful food? To me, it's FUN to cook and then enjoy it all! Yummmmooooo. What do you make that is exceptionally good and healthy?

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Happiness Journal

Today I am going to read my book and not feel like I should be doing something else.
Today I am going to have a glass of red wine with dinner!
Today I am going to the gym and LOVING it.

My Own Happiness Project

Hello all!

So, on a quest to create more happiness in my life, I am going to start keeping a "happines journal" that I will add to the end of each of my posts. No longer will I let the people around me bring me down, no longer will I dwell on every little thing in life!

So, it's onward - with a few things each day that I will do to make myself a happy. Just a few small goals to accomplish. Because really...it's the little things in life that we need to revel in.

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Yesterday I ran 3 miles on the 'mill (because it is way too freaking hot here in NM), lifted some weights which felt GREAT, and then took the kiddo swimming. He looooves the water, and splashed around like a maniac, getting me, my sunglasses, and every one in a 3 foot radius soaked. But it was great and I am so happy that he doesn't mind getting dunked. He'll be a super swimmer!

I need new shoes. That's right, I have NOT bought any new running shoes, and it has become a problem. I feel bad forking over the money, but this is one of those things I just need to pony up for, isn't it? Yep. No more excuses. I'd rather not land in a dr's offive due to excruciating knee pain when I knew that I could have prevented it. I'm smarter than this!!!

I want to run another 1/2 marathon, so I think I will sign up for the Chips 'n Salsa 1/2 in September. I would like to better my time of 1:56 in March...the race in which people ran off course, we ran through mud, and got super backed-up which I SWEAR hurt my time!

Okay time to enjoy this nap time, although he will probably wake up soon...

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Happiness Journal:

Today I will:

take my son for a walk down by the river
hit up the library to check out a book to learn Swedish!

Sooo Tired Sunday!

I was ready for bed at 5PM today...and it's 8:45 right now, and after I throw this post together I will graciously be turning off my light and rolling over. One night of camping with the kiddo and husband, and another family with twin 4 year old girls and a 1.5 year old boy, spells f-a-t-i-g-u-e. Gah. Throw in a few beers and well, you get the idea. I just can't hang anymore. :-( I feel pretty gross also knowing that I slammed several hot dogs and most of the skittles that Mike brought. Since when do I like skittles?? Ohh yes, I like them after a few Coors Lights have flowed. Needless to say, I am ready for another day, a day in which I can be productive and sweat out what I did to myself this weekend.

My training plan is going well, I guess? As I stated before, I am struggling with motivation. I get booooored quickly? Variety in working out has always been important to me because monotany and me just don't jive. That's why training for a marathon sometimes sounds daunting...granted, I still have a desire to do one. Someday, someday. I am thinking I will hit up a 10K in July that is pretty popular, just to maintain my competitive streak. Any one else get bored when they aren't racing? I love the thrill of it, and when I do race, I remember why I do what I do. Imagining a life without any sort of athletic competition seems entirely impossible.

For tomorrow I have a swim, and then I'll probably manage a yoga session at home during nap time.

And I was thinking...when did it get to be the end of JUNE people?!

Meditation - helpful or no?

Whoa. I have been MIA, so sorry about that. I am totally ti-RED right now. Logan has been sick and not sleeping at night, so I am lacking in the sleep department. When is that kid gunna sleep all night? I'm waaaaiting....? So...my "training" hasn't gone well since I returned fromt he cruise. I've gotten a couple swims in, some runs, one speedwork session...and a some crosstraining with P90X, yoga, etc. Guh. I have NOT gotten on my bike outside yet; I WAS on it once before we left for vaca...but that was it. So when will I start to train "seriously"? Ha, who knows, it may be never. I guess I will have to become accustomed to sleepless nights and running around like crazy all day...and the fact that training just might not always fit into my schedule. As long as I become at peace with that, things will be okay in the world of Lisbet.

So, on a totally different note, I was reading some blogs on Psychology Today. You should really check that site out, as there is great insight from tons of smart, highly educated people in the field of psychology/sociology. I came across several posts on meditation. It got me thinking. Does meditation truly help clear our minds, increase mindfulness, help us deal with relationships better? I once thought that meditation was only practiced by crunchy/granola types, and scoffed at it. Now, though, with my life being what it is (the usual adult life of sometimes (most times?) stress, fatigue, constant issues to deal with), I wonder...would meditation be advantageous for me? Could it really help my mind, body and spirit? At one point in my life I'd have laughed at this question, but now I think I need that sort of stability and clarity. Especially in today's world, where it seems that no one can just be happy, I figure...why not join the minority of people at ease. What do you all think? Any one out there meditate, or know people who do? Or do you think it's just a crock?

Back from Bermuda...

...and I am totally lacking motivation. I guess that's what late nights until 2-3am and lots of drinking will do to a person. Ahhh well. I'll get back to training, and when I do, you'll know it. Until then, here's a glimpse of our trip...

Two Days Until...

Two day. Two DAYS! Then we'll be cruisin'. I am 100% ready for this, probably more mentally than anything else.

I am one of those people that never packs in advance. I just throw a bunch of things in my bag the day we leave, and more often than not, remember to bring most necessities. Not only that, I am a light packer as well. No matter where I am going, or how excited I am, I always leave the packing to the last minute.

This time, I packed three days in advance. 100% packed, toiletries and all. THREE DAYS. What does that tell you...?

Patellofemoral Pain Fixed by Yoga

Happy Thursday all. Tomorrow is the last day of school for Albuquerque, which means my last day of work! Actually, I may not even be needed as it is a half day and most teachers don't need a sub. Sooo it's summer time! We go on our cruise in ONE week. I CANNOT wait.

I just finished uo some Yoga X (yeah, didn't do the whole 90 minutes). It is HARD man?! I mean, seriously. If you had been a fly on the wall you would have thought I was completely incapable. Tumbling and jerking and falling on my head. But to be positive here, I am noticing marked improvement in my flexibility, balance and strength. So, one day, when I do master this 90 minute Yoga X vid, I'll show you all some stellar moves. But for now I'll just do it in the privacy of my home where I can't embarass myself. For any one who does not practice yoga, I am telling you to incorporate it into your routine. Try 20 minutes, 3 days a week. I promise that you will reap the benefits. The reason that I am committing to it is for various reasons, one being my unavoidable knee pain. I know that it stems from muscle imbalances, so strenghtening and for me, the strectching aspect, is key to relieving the pain. From skiing I know that my quads and hamstrings are all messed up regarding % of strength, and that my hamstrings are far too tight. I'm hoping that with regular yoga I will work out these kinks and see the knee pain start to diminish. I have also been doing some exercises to strengthen my entire quad muscle. Tight hamstrings and hip flexors are also a major cause, so the yoga helps drastically with this. Any one else have Patellofemoral Pain (runner's knee)? It CAN be fixed. A great resource is right here.

So, now that I am done being a yogi, I'm meeting the hubs to swim a bit. First must feed that child o' mine, though...and it will probably be hot dogs again (this is all he will eat as of right now. gross).

We workout fiends DO like being called crazy.

View out of our back door at Gateway Canyon

So...the mini-vaca was to Gateway Canyon Resort, in CO. It was cool, but weird. Totally out in the middle of nowhere, they were understaffed, and the spouse sprained his ankle pretty badly from falling off a cliff (literally). Sooo...overall it was fun, with a few bumps in the road. But now I'm back! And detoxing and getting back on training schedule. As of right now, I started my Olympic training schedule for the next 7 weeks until the Cochiti Triathlon here in NM. I'm actually following the one in the book The Woman Triathlete, by Christina Gandolfo. So I'll keep you all updated on how it's going!

Today - biked an hour (inside) and ran 20 minutes
Tomorrow - swim 45 minutes. I am too lazy to let you in on what the workout IS, so too bad.

Back to the mini-vaca, though...I thought I'd run this by you all. The vaca was really a meeting for the shareholders of my husband's company. We were in CO, surrounded by hiking/mountain biking trails, swimming, atv'ing, white water rafting...and every one at this said meeting sat around the pool ALL day EACH day drinking beer (or Crown or wine or tequila...) In my mind, I'm thinking, what a bunch of fat lazy ****s!! Is that totally mean? But really, what a weird place to bring people who don't work out. Mike and I (and Logan) took advantage of the activities until he wrecked his ankle, and they named us "fittest couple of the weekend".

Isn't it funny how some people see us as being off our rockers? I love being called nuts.

Here to chat about my latest track workout...but off for vaca tomorrow!

Greetings fellow runners, mothers, friends, and workout extraordinaires. How've you all been? Sorry I've been MIA a tad this week, but super busy with uh...life. But I won't bore you with all that. No one cares that I take the trash out on Tuesdays and that my sitter for work next week is bailing on me, right? Of course not! So onward to better conversation.

Last night I was at track practice, as usual. I think I have only missed one of them, which is great because otherwise I wouldn't do speedwork. Coach had us doing some "longer" speedwork. 2 800s, 2 1200s, 2 800s. Mile warm up and cool down. We were supposed to run them at about 10k pace, with the 1200s being a few seconds slower if need be. I don't know what was up with me, but I felt AWESOME! Times were as follows:

800 - 3:43
800 - 3:41
1200 - 5:41
1200 - 5:38
800 - 3:45
800 - 3:41

Then he had us do a 400, for "fun". I managed a 1:29. After the entire workout my legs were bricks for the first 100 of that, but I felt solid and strong the whole time. LOVE love love those workouts where it seems like you could go forever and ever. Not that I wanted to keep doing 800s over and over, but I could have. SUPER pumped and I feel as if I'm getting faster.

Also...I have this burning desire to do a marathon. Have never done a full. I was training for one when I found out I was preggo and stopped. Having that itch again, though. Hmmmm...

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We're leaving for SOMEWHERE tomorrow morning. It's the husband's company meeting/vaca...and they have yet to tell us. Like it's supposed to be fun that we will be driving 7-12 hrs without knowing where we're going? Some people think we are going...see pic below. Yep. Moab, Utah! How cool would that be! ANNNDD if that is so, we have a new Kelty hiking backpack to throw the kiddo in. We got it from a friend, who threw in two pairs of kid's hiking boots for when he's like, four. How freaking cute are they?

Alright, must pack and prepare. Check you all later.

I'm super fast, yo!

Hey guys - it's hump day! And I am SICK as a DOG. AGH! I hate being sick. So annoying. So, the results for the Jay Benson Tri finally got posted. Of course, I only did the run, which was 3 miles exactly. Like I said, I had forgotten my watch (really disciplined athlete I am, huh?) I thought I'd hit the 23 min mark, and would have been happy with anything in the mid-23s...but I ran a 22:12! Nice! So, that basically means I ran a 23 minute 5K, and the fastest I had ever run a 5K was 24:07 or something. I mean, I have not raced a lot of 5Ks...but still, I am pumped! Getting faster is fun :-) Pace was 7:24. I know I can do better than that (can't we always?) I guess I aspire to run an under-23-minute-5K. Totally doable. Below is a video that's pretty cool to watch - about an 8 minute creation of the day. See if you can find me somewhere near the beginning, when we all set out for the run. All the men go out, and then I am the second girl you'll see.



Find more videos like this on ABQTri

Anyway, I'm sitting here with a tissue shoved up my nose to stop the constant drainage. Yuck. Must go remove it and take some medication to stop the pressure in my head. Have a great day all!

Tired Monday, new tri suit, and things to be happy about!

Today is a windy day here in NM. What else is new? It dies down as May progresses, though. This means no run outside - unless I want sand in my eyeballs, which I don't. Yesterday was the Jay Benson Tri...I did not get to do the entire thing as I didn't sign up in time, however, I did finagle a spot on a team. So I got to run. And I got to run in my new tri suit. I know, I wasn't biking or swimming buuuuut....it is just so comfortable! Can't wait to use it for REAL. Anyway, I don't have an official time on my run, and of course I forgot my watch that morning soooo I am at a loss for how fast I went. I felt pretty quick, however. I'll let ya know once I find the results.

Last week was a tough week for various reasons. And now we are all sick. Bleh. Hate having a clogged up nose. So this morning I am feeling a little tired and sluggish and blaaahhhh.

However, things to be thankful for AAAARRRE:

- vaca next week from Thursday-Sunday with spouse's company (he'll have one day of meetings, and then the rest are just play time - but they are keeping the location a secret. AGH! How can I PLAN without knowwwwing!?)

- cruise! I will miss Logey :-( But this will be good for spouse and I to get away for a bit. I think we need a much needed break from reality. Any one else feel that way?

- work is over on May 28th for the summer! So Logan and I can head on out to the park/pool/trails whenever we want! I may put him in a baby swim lesson with a friend and her 1 yr old...not sure about that one yet, though. Seems pointless when I used to teach every level of swim lessons known to man...but what's 40 bucks to have some extra fun with friends, right?

- spouse (why do I use the term "spouse" instead of "husband"...?) is getting all the p90x videos from someone at work today! YEY!!! Looking forward to new workouts, because I am totally getting bored and sort of plateauing.

- I am planning a much-needed trip back to New England for July, I think. I wasn't going to, but now I think I want to. It's about time to see the other set of grandparents (my parents) and all of my friends, etc.

- the view out of kitchen window, and little things like newly planted flowers in the backyard. More pictures to come once I'm done planting in our backyard. We've done a LOT back there this year...lots of sweat (no tears, but I might have wanted to at times) and hard work!

Cruise Fashion Show

I was bored today while baby napped (a rare 2.5 hour nap for him, I was like uhhh hello dude?) Anywho, I entertained myself by basically playing dress-up and taking pictures of myself. Don't lie. You would all do this, too. I'm slightly embarassed that I'm showing you all of these - even a bathingsuit shot. Yes, I did prance around in my swimsuit. In my house. By myself.

10K results

So I ran my 10K on Sunday, and it was great! The Run for the Zoo in Albuquerque had 11,000 runners. 11,000!? Crazy. I had never done this race before, and I'll say that considering the amount of participants, it was a very well run race. Being that so many people partake, the first couple miles were pretty dense and I found myself dodging and weaving. It never truly thinned out, but at least got easier to run. My time was 50:39...which I actually was surprised by because that's what I crossed at, and I know that it took a while for me to cross the start line so I thought I would have possibly broken 50 minutes...so I'm not sure what happened there. So, I guess I would have LOVED to break 50 min, and that will just be my goal for the next 10K. I know I can do it. It was a great race, though, and Mike stayed with Logan and another husband with his kids while we ladies ran :-) Good husbands we have :-) Since I had never run a 10K before, I wasn't sure how to set out for this one. I probably could have started out faster, but I didn't want to burn out and die by mile 6. My splits were negative, though, by a lot. I didn't take them myself, but at each mile they yelled out your time. From what they said, I figured I was running around 8:30s at the beginning, and the last couple of miles were under 8's. Overall pace of 8:05. I'm pretty happy with that. My PR 1/2 Mary was at 8:12 pace sooo....I'm not toooo far off. Now I'd like to see what I can run a 5K at! Under 24 minutes would be nice!

On another note, I am about a month away from our cruise. Aaaand I am worried about getting into a bathingsuit. More specifically, my mid-section. I'm pretty much being OCD about it, though, because it's not really that bad. I do want to diminish some of it, though, but how? Any suggestions? I have just been running/lifting/swimming, so I believe it's time to switch it up. Any one use the P90X workouts? I have been researching them for two days now, and they seem like they have phenomenal results. I have never been one to use workout videos, but these intrigue me. Do I want to shell out the cash for them, though? I found used ones on Amazon for under $100, so I may go that route. If you have personal experience with them I'd love to hear about it.

Alright, it's another day so enjoy it! I'm going to finish up some coffee/breakfast and get some yoga in at some point this morning. Have a good one!

If you didn't run, what would you be doing?

Where would you be/what would you be doing if you didn't run or take part in some sort of athletic event?

I'd like to hear your answers.

My answer - I would probably be super bored and searching for an outlet. I'd still be a gym rat, but I would be a weight-lifting rat specifically. I may not have lost my baby weight as fast. I wouldn't have met a lot of great people/friends. I may not have met my husband if it hadn't been for that first day in the pool that I taught him some swim technique (which ended up not helping him since he was ahead of the curve. Yeah, he already knew every drill I gave him).

How would your life be different?

Track Tuesday Finally!

Warning: Brief baby update first.

My son has reached the point where he refuses to let me change his diaper. He will not lay down. He squirms, does backbends, crawls away with poop all over the place...GUH! So I have resorted to literally having him stand up while I slap the diaper on him. He's happy as a clam if he's rummaging through his changing table shelves, while I'm changing him. Getting pants on him is a whole different story, which is why he's usually pantsless lately. Hmm. Don't hate on me.

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I've been noticing many women in the blogosphere love running skirts. I have yet to try one, as I've always relied on my trusty spandex shorts. Yes. I love spandex. But...the idea of a cute little skirt intrigues me. Maybe I'll try it out, see how it fits, see if I get any whistles (what? totally kidding. kind of.) All I know is that they seem to  be uber popular and get rave reviews. Any one have any suggestions for which they love the most? I've never dressed for fashion while working out. In college we practically competed to see who could wear the rattiest clothes to dryland ski practice. We basically prided ourselves on our cut up, holey shirts with paint stains on them. Now, things are different. The other day my husband said he thought we looked like the worst-dressed people in the gym. Both of us still wear clothes from college - him being MUCH worse seeing as he is soooo old (haha. he's 32). Does this mean I should think about buying some new gear? It's so expensive, though! AGH! Technical gear is not cheap, so we'll see how it goes. Maybe a shirt here and some shorts there to start, but no more.

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So today I am managing to get to track practice. I usually can't as I work on Tuesdays, but this week I switched my schedule for different reasons and am thus able to go to track. Sad to say I have not gotten much speed work in on my own, so group workouts are awesome. It will be a little brush up for ther 10K this Sunday. The Run for the Zoo in Albuquerque is a MOB scene. People call it the Run WITH the Zoo, and for good reason. The spouse was saying how it will be fine because you just need to get out in front of every one else. I guess that could work for me to an extent, but this race attracts Kenyans who train in Santa Fe. So, finishing in the top 10% is kind of impossible, let alone the tope 50%. I'll let you know how it goes. I just found out another mommy-friend is running it as well, so we'll have the husbands watch the kids (4 total) while we run. Sounds like a good Sunday to me, no? We'll celebrate with food and drinks at our house afterwards for the remainder of the day. Good stuff to look forward to :-)

What are you doing for workouts today? Tuesday is always a speed day for me when I'm in training mode. Happy Tuesday!

<-----Yes, this is how I put a diaper on my child - standing up. Is that weird?

A couple pictures here from the weekend. First Pic - Logan not so interested in the seals at the Zoo. Still too young for that stuff I guess? Second Pic - hasn't every parent offered a Corona (or Bud, or Coors Light) to their child?

Do you sometimes fall off the bandwagon of life? I think we all do at times.

I find that I continually fall off the bandwagon. Maybe it's not visible to any one else, but it's glaringly obvious to me. I'm not talking about just the "workout-wagon" either. I'm talking about the life-wagon...in my case, this means: eating right, taking care of my body, making sure the rest of my family is fed well, keeping the house in some sort of order, working hard at anything I do (job, yard work, housework, whatever it is that is important...) maintaining normal adult responsibilities...(i.e. NOT buying a latte that costs 4 bucks and instead putting that money toward our vaca-fund). Sometimes I really have it all together. I feel like I'm doing a great job of getting it all done, but then for some reason I just fall off the wagon. Sometimes it lasts a day, sometimes it lasts a week. Most people on the outside probably don't see it, but I feel it. For example, not wanting to do the laundry. Any of it. Because it is just soooo annoying and I could totally just put it off. Or, it's way too much work to create a delicious dinner of healthy food so why not pull out the cheese and crackers instead? I DO always keep on working out, even if the workout is purely junk...but at least I get it done. But lately, I've been off kilter. Being tired doesn't help because I become cranky and angry at the drop of a pin. :::sigh:::

Any one else feel this way sometimes? It's a constant battle that I believe most people fight, and I have been working on ways to come to terms with, well, my life. Because, HELLO, I have a great life and so does every one else I know! Life has these detours that are actually quite short in the grand scheme of things. Like these child-rearing years. I find myself griping and moaning and groaning about gaining weight, losing weight, wanting to compete, wanting to run fast(er), wanting to lose 5lbs...blah blah you know how it is. In reality, what does it actually MATTER? No one else really gives a damn. And the question we should all ask ourselves during times like these is: "Will all of this really matter in 5 years?" If not, we should get over it and enjoy the moment.

So, today, I have five little things to think about when we think we just can't do it anymore. Some if these ideas come from the book God Never Blinks, by Regina Brett. Now, it is not a religious type book, and I am not what you would call a church-goer...but they are good tips that agnostics and spiritual people alike can relate to.

1 - Life is bumpy (ferociously turbulent, actually) so have fun bouncing along. Bounce off those bumps and enjoy them because, as all things do, they will flatten out eventually.

2 - Stop saving things for a "special occasion". Today is special enough. So drink the expensive wine, wear the nice lingerie, and burn the pricey candles.

3 - Don't compare your insides to every one else's outsides. You have no clue what their journey has been like, and don't think their life is better than yours. The world needs you to be you.

4 - If you are having a doom and gloom day, still get up, get dressed and show up for life. Make no major decisions about career, relationships etc. because you are probably just having an awful day. To which we are entitled, but try not to get stuck in the mud.

5 - Your children (if you have any) only get one childhood so make it memorable. Now is not the time to be selfish. Put the t.v. remote down and go play outside with them.

I plan on reading that book by Regina Brett and jotting her "lessons" down on paper to keep in a spot I can go to when I'm having a rough time. Because honestly, how tough is it really? Sometimes a few words on a notebook page staring back at you is all you need to brighten your day.

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I'm trying to ease my knee pain, or not make it any worse I guess, so today I was on the eliptical for 45 minutes and got some good lifting in for my legs and back. No abs today...don't want to do too many of those. I'm sticking to pilates 3-4 days/week. Below are some pics from during our walk this afternoon (just me and Loges).

Race Report Woes and Healthy Veggies

Oh man - have had a few tough days here with a teething baby and therefore lack of sleep...but I am here, and I am going to give you the rundown on how the 1/2 went on Saturday. I'll make it bearable, but I do have some b****ing to do about the whole thing.

Sooo, here's the deal. The race has been under a new company for a couple years now, and they have struggled to put on a good race. This race wasn't any better. It had rained the night before (which means downpour in New Mexico...it's the only way it rains here) but turned out to be a beautiful, sunny day. We started late because there seemed to be some confusion on where the start line was. Once we took off, the people in the front all went the wrong way, due to a total lack of markers. So, once the middle of the pack got to the first turn we were all merging together as the front of the pack had turned around and was basically running into us all. There was a 3 foot wide bridge we had to cross over, and so every one was suddenly walking and then at a total standstill as we funneled through the bridge. So obnoxious. Once we got over the bridge people began to disperse and we got going on a massively muddy, rain puddle laden trail for the next three miles. Talk about caking up your shoes, throwing off your gait, and totally ruining new shoes if you had bought them (thankfully, I was in my old pain-inflicting shoes, HA). We looped back the start where it became pavement and went out for a couple more out and backs to complete the next 10 miles. Now, listen...how many out and backs can you really have in a HALF marathon. Really? Really? It was ridiculous. By the time I had kicked off all the mud, dislodged a humungooo rock from my shoes and gotten back into it, I was exhausted! I slowed down massively for the second half of the race, and could not WAIT to finish the race. I practically wanted to give up at mile 8, boooo :-(

Soo...I finished the race and had some major attitude, and was basically in tears. Couldn't tell you why I was so emotional. I was thinking to myself - why do I even bother with this running thing? It's not like I'm super duper fast?! Agghhh. I wanted to just give up on it all! But alas, I got over it and realized I was being a douche, once I factored in all the "issues" of the race. The race actually got a LOT of negative comments on Active - one of which stated that it was really an unfortunate race for those of us who went to race it - 13 miles is a looong way, and people train really hard and make this their "A" race. It was a big let-down for the serious runners.

So, my numbers, which aren't very specific, are as follows:

I ran the first 6 miles at 8:30 pace and felt pretty good, but that declined due to the shenanigans at the beginning of the race. So much so that I finished in 1:56:57...you can figure out the numbers for the latter half of the race, but I clearly slowed wayyy down! After talking with Mike about it, he claimed that we could deduct 3-4 minutes off our times to get what we possibly could have run it in. That made me feel better :-) On a good note, I DID run faster than in Tucson in December, and totally untrained as well! I guess impromptu races don't always work out that well...hmmm...yeah my fault on jumping in with two feet.

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Moving on here - do any of you struggle to find new and tasty foods to eat? Things can get superbly boring when you eat the same things all the time, and actually, you can miss out on much needed nutrients. Now that summer is creeping up on us I am looking for new veggies to cook up. It's fun to cook and eat new things, plus it broadens your dietary awareness. I checked out things I like, and things I don't frequently eat and created a list for you all to try out. From the list below, I want you all to pick one thing that you don't typically eat, and buy it on your next grocery trip. Do the same thing for the following grocery trip. Which foods are you going to try? I'll tell you what I tried out on my next post.

Artichokes - only have 60 calories per one medium artichoke, and hold 25% of your daily fiber and vitamin C. Plus they are fun to eat. Steam them for 30-45 minutes.

Radishes - contain antioxidants that are cancer fighters, as well as vitamin C. Slice them up in salads, pastas.

Arugula - one cup is 4 calories, and 28% of your daily Vitamin K. Good in salads, mixed with other greens, or in soups.

Beets - High in potassium and magnesium. Goood in just about anything - I just eat them as sides.

Mustard greens - Have beta carotene and phytochemicals (help combat cancer). I would just mix these into salads.

Fennel - It's a crunchy white bulb that is a good alternate to onions. Works as an inflammatory (good for runners, of course) that can relieve cramping and stomach spasms.

1/2 Mary tomorrow - glass of wine tonight! YES!

Wow. I am alone. Like, in the house with NO child and NO husband. And I am doing NOTHING. Just got home from work and decided not to have a workout today due to the 1/2 tomorrow and my knees hurting this past week. It's not often I can sit on my bed and just jerk around with no pressing matters (errr...what...is it sad that laundry is sometimes a "pressing" matter? Whatever). This is GREAT - doing nothing that is! I think what makes it even grrrrreater is that it's only for a short period of time so I just relish in it even more. It's funny how the busier you are, the more things you are able squeeze in due to mad time management skills, I mean look at me - I am totally squeezing in quality "me" time right now. HAHA. And...to entertain myself I am displaying a picture of my guns above for you all to see. I know - so totally jacked (harr harr).

Anywayyyyy, so I have the 1/2 tomorrow and I am not properly trained. Meh. We will see how it goes. I am thinking I will start out at a comfortable pace (9:30 or so?) and then settle into a more "uncomfortable but manageable pace" after a few miles. And what is that pace? I'm not even sure, to be honest, but I am thinking somewhere around 8:45? That is a 100% wild guess. I have never been a real numbers person, and I never really predict race times and rely on pace goals...I don't even wear a watch. I just go by how I feel. It has worked in the past. So who knows what an "uncomfortable but manageable pace" will actually feel like. I will def let you all know in the race report! Who knows how this will pan out.

Oh. And I am running in my nasty ratty old shoes that give me apparent knee issues. Ugh. Not like I had time to run out and spring on new shoes...that will have to happen at a later date. Boy I hope my joints get through this intact!

On a whole different issue - I taught kindergarten today. They were AWFUL! Some classes are good, but mannnn this class was bad! AGH! I left feeling drained and like a needed a glass of wine! (which I remedied...) I can deal with one 5 year old, but 19?! Made me appreciate my little Logey man - check out this pic of him below. Fell asleep like this...and somehow managed to get his pants off before doing so...

Have a great weekend all - I'll check in on things after my race!

What Changes Could You Make Today, to Help You Feel More at Ease?

I know, it's late, what am I doing up? Is 11 really that late, or am I just some old lady now? Who knows. Just a quick note here, I was poring over Amanda's blog RuntotheFinish, and she has this challenge that I think we all need to think about doing. If not on her blog, at least jot these things down for your own sake:

THREE things that you can change TODAY and implement for the next 30 days. Sometimes we all need to make slight changes to create an air of positivity...it can be that easy.

But skip over to her blog and check it out homies. Maybe all the help YOU need is to just stop hitting the snooze button every morning, eh?

Annnnnd I'm hittin' the hayyyy.

Crippled Knees Got Me Down On Running

I think I may be crippled by the time I am 35. No really, with the way my knees acted up on Saturday night, you would have thought I was going to be in a wheelchair for the rest of my life. I ran 12 miles Saturday morning...and it went fine. A stupidly hilly loop (a few hills I even walked up, I won't lie, who was I trying to impress anyway?) So, with walking included, my pace was 9:10...a nice, pretty easy run in preparation for my half this weekend. My knees have always been an issue, probably from skiing hard since the wee age of 4. If my mileage is low and I suddenly try and jump from runs under 8 miles to runs of 12 or more, my knees react by inflicting pain on me that basically keeps me from doing anything. So...Saturday night, as I sat at a bonfire at a friend's house, my knees slowly but surely set up and started to hurt more and more until I basically couldn't stand/sit/walk...errr...do anything without wanting to cry. To be honest I doubt I have had them hurt this much before. That night I went to bed wondering if I would ever really be able to run far again. Alas, they are better now and I have recovered. So, I guess you all are thinking right now "duh lady, don't you know you can't increase mileage that fast?" Well YES I know this! But I've always been able to just go out and pound out extra miles without any problems. Grrr. Does any one else have such knee problems? Do you think this will prohibit me from staying super active in the future? Hope not. Guess I'll just have to smarten up - doh!

Okie doke - next dilemma - what to do about new running shoes. Mine are ancient (aka 9 months old HAHA) and they are pretty much on their way out. I have Mizuno Waves right now...not sure if I love them. I've had two of the same pair in a row now, but I'm not sure if I love them enough to buy them again. I kind of overpronate...so I need something with an extra arch. I was looking at the RW shoe guide, and the Nike Zoom Structure Triax 13s look good. Is it true that Nikes run narrow, or is that just an old myth? I used to buy them because I thought that was true (and I have a narrow foot...) I have also run in New Balance before and I really liked them...so the New Balance 760 are another option I found. Anywho, if I'm going to drop over 100 bucks on shoes, I want to do my research. Thank God RW has all the info on these shoes; it at least gives me a starting point. But as always, there are too many options!

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Does any one watch American Idol? It's Tuesday which means I know what I'll be watching! I feel so pathetic - never in my life have I watched this show, and for some reason the spouse and I have become addicted to it this season. Bleeeehhh. It'll be over soon enough...but...GO Crystal! Love that hippie music/style she has :-)

Happy Tuesday all - hope you get in a good sweat today. 3 mile run and a 30 min bike for me.

Tempo Run with a Stroller? And a New Flexitarian Diet.

SICK children are no fun. Beside the point that I felt bad for poor little Logey yesterday, I did not get a SINGLE thing done except for a small batch of laundry. Hubby came to the rescue at around 5:30pm (which is uuuuuber early for him to be home) and let me head to the gym for a 55 minute elliptical session. How nice is THAT? MUCH needed escape; I was extremely grateful. Anywhooo, we woke up a tad happier today, and the little munchkin is napping now due to sheer exhaustion from crying all day and all night. Hoping we can get out today for a run - a tempo run is on the schedule, but not so sure how fast it will be with pushing the bambino...hmmm. I'll probably jog 1.5 miles...quicken it up for 15 minutes, and then jog another 1.5. After that, if all goes well and no crying ensues, I'll release him to the wonderous gym daycare ladies and get some weights in. Maybe no abs today...since I have been doing a lot of them...and I don't need to make my middle thicker! Still battling a slight layer on top of the abs that I am not so happy about...unnoticeable to others, but for some reason a huge issue for moi. I've actually begun totally changing my diet to a "flexitarian" diet. Meaning, I am not eating as much meat, maybe only one to two meals a week with a little bit of chicken...I'd like to get it down to one meal a week. My insides seem to agree better with mainly veggies, grains, and some fruit. Duhhh. Isn't that what we were created to eat? I think SO. And I might possibly have a slight dairy issue, where too much of it spells disaster for my intestines. I truly think that I FEEL better and perform better (running/attitude/happiness) when I eat this way (plants/fruits/grains). I notice a mjaor change when I eat too much red meat, cheese, or white bread...any one else notice this trend as well? I really wonder how, for so many years, I ate what I wanted and just weathered the painful gut, down mood, and sluggish feeling...not to mention skin problems. I was never one to have major skin issues, however, I notice a marked improvement when I eat a better diet.

The general consensus here is that it makes SO much more sense to eat yummy things that are good for us, thus allowing ourselves to enjoy a better quality of life. Plus, cooking great food is super duper fun, and a fantastic learning experience. I mean seriously, who knew kale could be so good (I did know this already, but did you?)

Anywho, to cheer on this whole flexitarian idea, I have been searching for good recipes. Any one like hummus? ME ME ME ME! I could eat it by the spoonful, which sounds gross but whatev. Check this out -

Garden Pea & Walnut Hummus
Makes 8 servings (~2 Tablespoons each)

INGREDIENTS
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1.5 cup frozen green peas, thawed
1/3 cup raw walnuts
1/2 lemon, juiced
1/4 cup fresh basil
Salt & pepper, to taste
Whole grain pita breads/flatbreads/baguettes, grilled

DIRECTIONS

In food processor, puree ingredients until smooth.
Serve hummus spread with grilled breads.
Optional: top hummus with chopped walnuts, basil, and drizzle of olive oil

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Nutrition
Facts (hummus only)
Serv. size 2 Tbsp (37g)
Servings 8
Calories 78
Fat Cal. 56


Sounds SOOOO good. Not your normal hummus but I like change! I'll probably try this out this wknd and let you all know how it comes out, and then maybe you can add it to your handy little cookbook. I have my own cookbook chock full of recipes I've found/been given. It's a great idea to have one of these because it's full of your faves!


Off to another day here - thankfully NM is looking up weatherwise and will be hitting 70s the next few days, thank God!

Happy eating, you lovely foodies/runners!

Running in the Wind = So Not Fun

Today, I am supposed to do 7-9 hill repeats. I actually love hill repeats because it shakes things up a little bit and allows me to get away from regular old sprints on flats. However, New Mexico is currently in its "windy season". We are looking at wind speeds of up to 50 mph today. Not sure if I really want to get out and run hills in that, with the BOB and a 20lb child to top things off. What to do? Mike is meeting for a track workout with the "group" at 5:30pm...maybe I'll head to that instead...granted...the wind is still a factor there too soooo....TM it is maybe! Booo. I am so ready for summer.

Easter Sunday all three of us went out for a run, Mike with the BOB, me solo (yes!). It seemed to be nice and sunny and calm, but 10 minutes into the run it just became a blustery mess. It was like running against freakin' hurricane winds. We managed about an hour and 10 minutes. Not sure on the distance, but I am thinking at least 6 miles. Pretty much an all up hill run (we ran to his mom's and had her drive us home, LOL. She thinks we're nuts). Calves actually tightened up for me, which never happens. Kinda nice.

Yesterday was just cross-training. Twenty minutes on the stair climber and 30 minutes on the elliptical. Today I'll shoot for the RW Core Workout and then make a decision about this speedwork that I must accomplish.

On a different note, my child is sitting here continually hitting his head on the coffee table. I swear he's going to be brain-dead by the time he's 1 yr old...guh.

Repairing Diastasis Recti After Pregnancy

Diastasis Recti. Many pregnant women suffer from this, "this" being abdominal separation. Apparently I had a little bit of it myself, showing up around my 5th or 6th month of pregnancy. My Dr. acted like it was nothing and that I would recover easily from it. He did say, though, that women who have tight abs before they get pregnant are more apt to suffer from diastasis simply because their abs aren't used to being stretched out. Well what the heck, I get punished because I'm in shape and have slammin' abs? How unfair is that? Regardless, I seem to be on the mends, with only a little bit of protrusion in my upper abs that I notice when I crunch up from a laying-down position on the floor. Kinda NOT cool, but it just comes with the territory I guess.

Below is one video of several on the RunnersWorld website. Click on it to watch it, and if you go here :

http://www.runnersworld.com/video/1,8052,s6-6-0-2,00.html?ext=Y&videolink=http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1243489102/bclid6520547001/bctid6541535001

...you can see the other related videos in the sidebar that compile the Core Values Workout. Get going on these exercises at least a couple weeks after birth, and you can start to zip those abs back up. Remember, though, it took 9 months to stretch those muscles out so it may take a few months to get them back!

25 Things You May Not Know About Me

Some of you know me well, others of you don't. So here's 25 things that will let you in on the life of Lisbet. (Trust me, there's a lot more but this is the short list).

1 - My parents are still married (to each other, yes).

2 - I have one brother, Erik, who is now 22.

3 - I grew up in Princeton, Massachusetts and lived there for 23 years before moving to New Mexico (I am now 26).

4 - I was an NCAA All Conference ski racer at UMass - Amherst.

5 - We won Nationals in 2003, Regionals in 2004 - yes we beat the 28 year old imports from Sweden.

6 - It was (one of) the best times of my life.

7 - I figure skated competitively for 10 years.

8 - I had to stop because I fractured my back.

9 - Then I heavily devoted myself to ski racing (which I had also been doing while skating).

10 - I had four majors in college and still graduated in 4 years.

11 - I started running longer and doing triathlons after college - when I met my now husband.

12 - I love being competitive in any sport that I do.

13 - I thought I wouldn't have kids until at least my late 20s, and am so happy I had my first earlier!

14 - I like to think I have a slightly earthy/crunchy style.

15 - My husband thinks that's "dirty."

16 - I like classic rock.

17 - I ran and swam up until the day before I had Logan.

18 - People have asked me if I am a sports model - I think that would be pretty cool if I was!

19 - I have skiied in the Swiss Alps with the like of Norwegian, Italian and Finnish National Teams.

20 - I was born with black hair, and after it fell out and grew back it has always been blonde.

21 - My mom is 100% Swedish.

22 - I don't know if I ever want to do an Ironman (but my husband already is one).

23 - I wish I had more time to read.

24 - I love love love to cook food!

25 - I do not have a Blackberry, iPhone, or whatever else those smart phones are...

Of course, I could go on and on...but I will spare you. I am a pretty interesting person, though, if I do say so myself. Ha.

Anyway, this is a wonderful Easter day here! About 70 degrees and sunny, so it's about time to take the little guy out in the BOB. I really realllllyyy need to get in a long run before this half marathon in two weeks...but not sure how far I'll go today with the kiddo. I'm thinking this race will be faster than last race seeing as I weigh less then I did a few months ago...sooo crossing my fingers! I don't have a goal time really...but 1:55 would be nice, and I think I can do that easily.

And Guess Where I'm Going on Vaca!?

Are you ready for this? GUESS where I am going on June 4th-11th. Just guess. Okay the photo above may give it away a little...BERMUDA! A cruise from Boston to Bermuda! NICE!!!! (well, we have to fly from NM to Boston, which kinda isn't cool but whatev) This will be me and Mike's first vaca together that isn't related to some running race/triathlon. Just sheer relaxation and the ability to do whatever we want. So this means I have to buckle down and get myself bikin ready! Might have to invest in a new one, seeing as most of mine hail from about 5 years ago and are unraveling. The fact that I am gearing up for my 1/2 marathon on April 17th, tri on may 2nd, and 10K on May 10th...I should be in good shape. Well, better shape I guess. Like super svelte. Haha. So, things on the "Bermuda Cruise To-Do List" are as follows:

- go snorkeling
- lay on the beach
- drink too many pina coladas
- eat too much food on the ship
- get a stellar tan (while wearing spf 30, mind you)

I will add more, I am sure. But for now I am just pumped to THINK about going! YES!

Running Faster After Pregnancy

So it's been a while since I posted anything huh? I wish I could really streamline this blog, but I have so many ideas and things I like to do that, well...I have a hard time focusing on just ONE thing. Not sure what to do on that - what are people most interested in? My active life? My running/working out etc? And all being done with a baby? And eventually another baby some day? (yes, we do want another bambino). Let me know your thoughts...what do people like to read about here?

So....what is this talk about women getting faster after pregnancy? Is it true? I feel like it is, because recently I have been feeling REALLY good while running. Is there really any scientific evidence? I dunno...they claim increased blood flow is like blood doping, but I am almost 9 months PP, so is that really the factor here? Perhaps it's the mentality women have after having childrem that helps them become better athletes. We probably have a more sound mind, better discipline, and realize that yes we CAN and WILL finish this race and that we've done harder things (especially those of us who had longer/more difficult labors, maybe?) This blog, tighthams.wordpress.com by Alix J. Shutello, touches on running before, during and after pregnancy so take a look. Some good info, things a lot of us know, and some great inspiration.

In the end, though, I run and think about a lot of things...like Logan. And it puts a smile on my face. That in itself makes me run faster than anything.