Disney Princess

Well, my friends.... it has certainly been awhile, hasn't it?

So much has happened in the past few months- I did a lot of training and feel I am becoming a MUCH stronger runner. Multiple times I managed to run 3 miles without having to stop and walk- that's a major achievement!

As you may or may not have known- a few weeks ago, I took an 11 day vacation to Orlando. My boyfriend and I spent two days at Disney's All Star Music resort, then hopped on the Disney Dream cruise ship for 5 days! It was amazing! I was still in training for the Disny Princess Half marathon so the first thing I did was check out the spa area where the fitness center was. I was super excited to do a run on the treadmills overlooking the ocean. But, when I went the next day all the treadmills were taken! So, I went to my back up plan which was the out door running deck on level 4 of the ship. It's 2.5 laps for one mile- so I did 5 quick laps and called it a day. I enjoyed the rest of the cruise- the relaxation, the Aqua duck water coaster, Castaway Cay island, Pirate night and fireworks! If you ever get the chance, I definitely recommend a Disney cruise- they're phenomenal (even if you don't have kids)!

After we returned from the cruise, we headed to Disney's Caribbean Beach resort. Absolutely stunning resort (plus a pirate themed pool)! I did my last run before the race at the resort. The humidity knocked me for a loop and slowed me down, but I powered through it. I have to say, that was my only issue with my training for this race. I did my runs in the New England winter, mostly cold days and lots of trips to the gym to go on the treadmill because of the 3.5 feet of snow and ice outside. My body wasn't truly ready for the Florida humidity. Live and learn though, right?

On race day, we got up at 2:30am to catch the shuttle to the race area. I made my boyfriend go with me even though he wasn't running- he did cheer me on throughout the course though. The race officially started at 5:30am and my corral took off at 6:27am. By mile 1, I was already a disgusting sweaty mess, but I kept up with my 3 minutes of running, 1 minute of walking ratios. Soon, the miles were flying by and I was having fun looking at everyone's costumes (some pieces of which littered the race course).

I have to say, Disney definitely is the best race I have ever done. They had water and Powerade at every mile marker. And every few miles they had medic tents with gallon pump bottles of BioFreeze. My legs held up pretty well, I only stopped around mile 10 to slather some BioFreeze onto my calves. I managed to keep trotting along, all the way across the finish line! My official time was 3:34:45. Not as good as I had hoped, but I finished and that was my main goal. If I do do another Disney race, I will try and start one corral up from where I was. I was having difficulty doing my jogging portions every now and again because I had to continuously weave in and out of all the walkers. Don't get me wrong, I definitely had many times when I walked, but I made sure I went to one edge or the other of the course. I was slightly disappointed about being able to run through the castle. I was really looking forward to doing that but once I hit the back of the castle, I came to a dead stop because there were SO many people going through the castle at the same time (a total of 26,000 runners!). We kind of herded our way through and then once we got past the castle a bit I was able to run again.

All in all, it was the BEST race ever! The 13.1 miles went by pretty fast compared to my last half marathon. Perhaps I was in a better mindset because I stuck with my training and felt stronger overall? Maybe it was just being swept up in the Disney magic? I don't know but I loved it!

My boyfriend and I after the race with some pretty sweet Disney bling!

There is another part to this story though! It turns out that my Princess medal is not the only shiny and sparkly thing I came home with! While on the cruise, my boyfriend proposed to me (on the grand staircase, in front of tons of people!) and I, happily, said yes!

 February 18, 2013

We haven't set a date yet. In fact, we are planning on at least a 2 year engagement in order to save up money. In lieu of all of this amazingness, I have decided to step up my healthy eating and living. I have come SO far in my weight loss, but I still have a ways to go in order to be where I want to be. I am challenging myself to lose another 50 pounds in the next two years so I am ready for my wedding and honeymoon (I would really like to be able to wear a bikini and not feel self conscious on my honeymoon). My goal is to get back into blogging. I am starting off slow, because it is the most hectic time of the year at work, and aiming to post twice a week. I still plan on running 2 times a week, and am going to add in 3 times a week of 30 Day Shred. I am begging you to please keep me honest with this. I often get overwhelmed by work and life in general, but this is a totally do-able weekly goal! I may just need a kick in the pants every now and again!

What do you say? Who has their kicking boots on?

I Survived

I ran my second ever half marathon on Saturday- and I'm proud to say I survived.

As you all know, I've been disgustingly absent from the blog world due to work, family issues, etc. Well, my training was significantly absent for this race as well. I managed to get in a 10 mile run/walk before the race, so I at least knew I wasn't going to die (always a plus). I managed to finish in 3:29:34, 16min/miles exactly. I felt good up until mile 10 and then charlie hrses started to threaten me every time I did more than walk- so i slowed WAY down for the last 3.1 miles.

The weather was freezing in the morning for the start of the race- a chipper 34 degrees at gun shot. I have never run by SO many clothes as I did those first 3 miles. People were stripping like crazy! Anyway, I had gloves on to protect my hands and a light, wicking jacket over my tech shirt. I also had on capri pants so I was comfortable the entire run- temperature wise.

I tried very hard to jsut relax into a rhythym and enjoy the course- I made some new friends with a few people as we chatted while we jogged. The only time I really felt down on myself was when my legs began to hurt- but as I jogged across the finish line, I reminded myself that if you finish a race and you're not worn out- then you didn't push yourself hard enough. So, at least I know I gave it my all.

Yesterday, I downloaded my new training plan for the Disney Princess Half. I'm using Jeff Galloway's plan from the rundisney site- with a goal of "finishing in the upright position". It paces out the run/walk breaks I would need to strive for for different min/mile sets. I'm shooting for a 13min/mile, but will definitely settle for 14min/miles. I just don't want to get swept!! I'm actually now terrified of being swept off of the Disney course. In any case, my new training starts next week and runs for 19weeks. I have already gotten my family and my boyfriend copies of the training schedule so they can stay on top of me and make sure I do what I need to do.

I can't promise I will be blogging much but I'm going to try and get on here every once in awhile to give an update. If you really want to keep in contact with me, like my page on Facebook- it's easier to do a status update there when I'm on the go. I miss all of my fellow bloggers! I hope everyone is doing well in their own training- if anyone is headed to Disney in February, give me a shout out and maybe we can meet up!

Getting In My Own Way

I had a revelation while running this morning.

I've heard that happens sometimes, but I usualy have such a hard time focusing on just one thought in my head as I run, that I've never experienced it before today. I was struggling through a short 3 mile run- pounding headache, upset stomach, tired legs and back- it was awful. And all I kept thinking to myself was, "I suck at this.", "I can't keep a pace and I can't run more than a mile before I have to stop.", "Why am I trying to run a half marathon? I'm never going to be ready." It was like this the ENTIRE run. Just one negative, berating thought after the other. I finished my run and moped back up the hill to my house, kicking myself all the way for not having done better.

And, that's when I realized why my training has been SO horrible this year. I've lost the joy of running. I am the reason I haven't been running- not work, or family, or weather- just me. I've been so critical and harsh on myself that I just can't enjoy my runs anymore. I mean, Wowsers! Talk about a negative rainstorm on my running parade!

If we look back at my runs this year; the ones where I went out with no mile or time goal were my best runs. Why? Because I just let myself run and enjoy it. I wasn't focusing on time, or pace, or ratios, or anything else. I just popped in my Yurbuds and ran for the sole purpose of running. On my shorter runs, where I was trying to make myself go faster or farther, I self-sabotaged. I became so focused on making myself run and run and run, all while being negative about it, that I got in my own way and created a self-fulfilling prophecy.

I have to try and break myself of this habit. (Especially before my half marathon in 30+ days.) I need to relax and find my joy factor again, otherwise I'm going to self-sabotage myself during the big race and I definitely don't want that! How can I do this though? How can I go out and just enjoy my runs again when all I can think about is how unprepared I feel for the upcoming race? It sucks. On one hand, I know that my finishing time doesn't matter, just the fact that I finish. But, on the other hand, I'm so competitive with myself that I'm going to be so distraught if I don't meet or beat my finish time from last year.

If I can just get myself to stop obsessing and stressing, I might be able to meet my finish time from last year. But, honestly, I just want to be able to go out there and run and have fun and enjoy the race. I don't want to have to worry about time and pace and all that stuff. So, the big question is- how do I make all the noise in my head stop? (Besides turning my music up louder.) I wasn't planning on running tomorrow morning, but I think I may go out for a short run, with no watch on, and just run. It's finally started to get cool out in the morning, I even had to run with a jacket on this morning, and I love this kind of weather, so why not go out and enjoy it, right? However, I'm still open to suggestions on how to combat that big-mouthed, negative voice in my head.

I'm Going to be a Princess and Give Away Winner

As of last Friday night, I am officially registered for the

2013 Disney Princess Half Marathon.

My boyfriend and I are making it a huge birthday/vacation/running extravaganza! I will be in Florida from February 16th through February 26th (the race itself is on the 24th). I'm so excited I can hardly see straight!
We booked our hotel, dining reservations, airfare, and race registration. This is REALLY happening! AHHHHHHH!!!! Any other bloggers out there going to do the same race? It would be awesome to get to meet up with some of you amazing people! Looking at our dining reservations, I just have to be very careful that I don't overeat the days leading up into the race (which is going to be so hard to do while we are on the Disney cruise!). I'm going to need all the strength I can muster... or I'm just going to have to utilize the fitness center and pools as much as possible- that sounds like a better plan.

I've decided (as was my previous plan) that I'm going to try and dress like Ariel for the run (it is a tie between her and rapunzel, but I would look horrible as a blonde!). Purple top, green sparkle skirt, green compression socks, and green shoes. I may or may not also dye my hair bright red the week before the trip (so it doesn't bleed everywhere when I'm actually running).

This means I really need to be serious about my training. I keep saying it over and over again, but life continues to get in the way. What happened to the discipline I had last year?! I miss it. Tonight I'm going to do some cross-training to get myself back into the swing of things. Then, Thursday morning I'm doing a 3 mile run. Saturday or Sunday (depending upon weather) I'm going to do an 8mile run. I should be doing a 10 mile, but since I haven't run at all this past week and a half, I don't want to jump back in too soon and hurt myself. I'm going to listen to my body and take it slow. That's really all I can do! I need y'all to help keep me on track- if you don't see me updating, please shoot me an email and make me feel guilty!

I think part of the reason I keep slacking on my training is because I'm scared of hitting double digit runs. I shouldn't be, considering I did them last year, but I think I'm psyching myself out because sometimes I have really great long runs and sometimes my body is so tired that my long run is horrible and it depresses me.. Any advice on how to stop that? I could use it.

In other news, the MDA Lock-Up fundraiser was a great success! A HUGE thanks to everyone who donated as $600 was raised. The page is still up for another month or so if anyone else would like to contribute. However, the winner of the Mystery Loot Give Away is Jessica Hill! She wins a gift certificate to Lululemon and an array of goodies that will pamper and delight!

Again, a huge thank you to everyone who particpated!

Happy last week of summer!!

ING... B-I-N-G-O!

It's Official- I am registered for my 2nd Half Marathon in October.

HOORAY!!

I just sent in my payment and have 66 days to finish my training before I tackle the ING Hartford Half again. I'm actually very excited! I had a blast running the course last year and am very much looking forward to doing so again. I only hope the day will be as gorgeous out as last year.

Today is another long day at work. However, I intend on going to bed as soon as I get home so I can get up and put in some miles tomorrow. My back up plan is to run after work (in case I hit snooze sleep through my alarm clock again). I'm currently about 2 weeks behind on my training, which is okay because I had originally added in 3 extra weeks, just in case. However, I've decided I'm going to increase my short runs to be 3 miles, instead of 2 for twice a week, on top of my long runs. The only thing I'm worried about, with this upcoming race, is that I won't be ready. And, I know, I need to push those thoughts right out of my head otherwise I'm going to self-sabotage.

To keep myself sane, I'm carrying Kara Goucher's book around with me. That way, when I feel the negative thoughts creeping in, I can crack the book open and get some motivation! (It works, I swear!)

On another note, I'm not sure how many of you read my last blog post, but I am doing a "Mystery Loot Give Away". My boyfriend and I are raising money for the Muscular Distrophy Association, and I'm turning to all you lovely people to help us out. For every $10 you donate, you will get an entry into the give away!

Now, you may be asking yourself, "But, Cupcake, why would I donate if I don't know what I might win?"
And to that I would kindly answer, "Because you're such a wonderful, amazing person that it doesn't matter what you might win. You just know that your donation is going on to help millions of people who suffer because of MD." Then, knowing you would probably want a little bit more information, I would continue, "I can't tell you exactly what your prize is- just know it's going to be pretty awesome! There's some pampering stuff, something worth money, and maybe even something for your feet!"

So, once again, I get down on my knees and humbly ask all of you lovely blog followers to please reach down into your pocket/purse/wallet/manbag/backpack/fannypack/Spibelt/piggy bank and please DONATE to a GREAT cause!

I promise, it will be worth your while! 



Plateau Busted!

It's time to CELEBRATE!!

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I have FINALLY broken through my weight-loss plateau! That's right ladies and gents, I'm officially back to 205. This is the weight I was when I ran my half marathon last year! Woohoo! I still have 2 months until my next half marathon, so I'm hoping that as I continue with my training, I will drop those last remaining 5lbs (plus one or two more). That will put me under 200lbs for the first time in about 10 years. Crazy!!! I'm so excited and proud! As you all know, I had just about given up because I had been stuck at 210 for so long- but thanks to everyone's support and motivation, I managed to keep muddling through and it paid off. So, THANK YOU!

On another celebratory note, I decide to follow some of Kara's advice the other day and went out for a run. There was no mileage goal in mind, no set time limit- I just went out to run and see how far I managed to go. I did set my watch timer, but only so I could log my run. I started the stop watch and then put it in my SpiBelt so I wouldn't be tempted to check it. I maintained a steady pace for most of my run, extending or shortening my route as I felt. When I finally hit my street again (I did and out and back loop), I stopped my watch to see that I had been going for 1:20:07. Not too bad for "just going for a run"! I went inside and logged into my DailyMile account to put in my route. Turns out I did 6miles! 6 miles in 1:20:07?! Holy crap crackers, Batman!! Apparently, I need to run without my watch more often. I think I get so stuck in trying to beat my time and speed up my pace that I actually slow myself down by psyching myself out. Anyone else ever feel like this?

Anyway, it's a great feeling knowing that I'm back on track with losing weight and that I had such an awesome long run. Gives me motivation to keep going! Did anyone else have any amazing achievements this past week?!

Thank You, Kara Goucher

I ran yesterday. And, boy, did it feel nice. I went out and did a nice, easy run of 2 miles. Took a slow pace for most of it. The only exceptions were when I pushed my pace up the two hills on my route, and then when I sprinted the ends of each mile. I was pouring sweat when I was done, but it felt great! And, I finished under 30minutes. Woohoo!

I've been lacking motivation again lately (surprised? I didn't think so.) It's so hard for me to get back into a routine when work is killing all of my energy. I work with kids all day, every day. I love it, but it is EXHAUSTING. Being high-energy all the time is great- it's almost like a workout in itself, but by the time I get home, I want to curl up in bed and just sleep. It's also hard to wake myself up early to try and run, but this is nothing new. I'm just not a morning person and I'm okay with that.

I was talking with my boyfriend the other night about how I feel I have been slacking WAY too much for my upcoming race in October and how I'm considering not doing it and just using the extra time to prep for the Disney Princess race in February. I hate that I even thought that- it makes me feel like such a quitter. Ugh! Anyway, my boyfriend told me not to give up just yet. He said to wipe the slate clean, get back on the wagon, and see how I do over the next few weeks. If, by the time I hit September, I'm not feeling ready, then to wait till February. But, if I work through my road blocks and get back in the game, he would be there to cheer me on (for both races).

So, I pulled out a book I had almost forgotten I'd bought- Kara Goucher's Book: Running for Women.

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I cracked it open and started reading. I eventually got to the pages where she talks about her set backs and how she sometimes has periods where she has a hard time doing her trainings. Then, she put in a great list of suggestions to help make training a little less cumbersome. One thing she suggested was to change wording- instead of saying "I'm going to do 4 run days this week,", change it to "I'm giving myself 3 rest days this week,". She said it's almost like reverse psychology. I'm going to start trying that possibly. If not aloud, then at least in my own head.

Another thing she suggested was mixing up your training a bit (especially when you find it hard to stick to a particular schedule). For instance, I know I have to do 3 runs and a cross training/walking day. However, instead of making it every Tuesday is a short run, every Thursday is a tempo, etc, to try and mix it up as it fits into my week. That way you don't stress as much or get so down on yourself if something unexpected happens on Tuesday and you can't make a run.

One last thing she advises is to give yourself a break! (Seriously!) If you are scheduled to do an 8 mile run, but you feel you can't do it- just go out for a one mile run. First off, one mile is better than no miles, and , secondly, once you are out and running the chances are you will start to feel better and extend your run a bit on your own.

I've only read like 5 chapters in the book, but it made me feel so much better about my training road blocks. Just knowing that Kara Goucher hits some hurdles herself makes me feel that what I'm going through is perfectly normal. And that's comforting. It makes me think that maybe I can get back on the bandwagon and do ING Hartford in October afterall. 

Pride and Running

I am kind of proud of me, if I do say so myself. 

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And I do.

I had a very long day running programs with all ages of kids today and it was gross outside. I mean, sticky, hot, walking through a wet blanket, gross. I got home and sat down on the couch, knowing that that was the wrong thing to do because I had to get in a run today. I sat there for an hour, talking with my mom while my brother made dinner, then I got off my butt and went to the gym. (Considering how hot it was, I decided a treadmill run would be best for my sanity.) I didn't want to go, but I made myself do it anyway. Hooray for NOT giving into temptation and getting my butt in gear.

The gym was pretty packed, but I managed to snag a treadmill and started my 3.1 mile run. Instead of doing just 30min. like I have scheduled on my training plan, I decided to sneak in the Firecracker Virtual 5k I had to do. Needless to say, I finished in 46:03. Not too bad. I was hoping to stay with a 15min/mile, but considering how tired I was, anything under 47min was okay by me.

My plan of action for this week is a 30min run on Wednesday and then doing my 8miles on Friday before work or Saturday early morning (depending upon weather and such). That will put me at about 13.1 miles total for this week. I gave myself a goal of 50 miles and then I would treat myself to a massage. As of right now, I am 19miles away from that. By the end of this week, I will be 9miles away!

Also, I haven't officially registered yet (I will when I get my next paycheck), however-  

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I will be doing the Princess Half in Feb 2013!!. 

My boyfriend and I put deposits down on a Disney cruise for Feb. 17-21st and the race is on Feb. 24th, so we are going to stay at the Disney Caribbean resort after we get off the ship until it's time for me to race. I'm SUPER excited! I can't wait! Only about 214 days until I get to sail away! WOOHOO!!

 Anyone have any fun runs coming up?

If The Running Shoe Fits....

I did it again!

It was a struggle this morning, but I made it out to run.

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(So maybe I didn't run 22 miles, but this is still about the same train of thought I had going on- except I focused more on wanting banana peanut butter frozen greek yogurt tonight)

Today was another fantastic run for me. 2 miles in 28:06. Not too shabby.

I'm beginning to see that my short runs are getting a little faster, as I'm able to maintain around a 14:00-14:30min/mile pace more often than not. I'm hoping this means my endurance for longer runs will get better also. I will find out on Sunday when I do my 4 mile run. Wish me luck!

Alas, there were no horn honks or random strangers cheering me on this time out, but it's okay. I still feel it was a very good run. I always feel so accomplished after I run- love it!

Oh! I have a fun story for you and want to know y'alls thoughts on this-

 I was talking with one of my cast mates last night and he asked if I would ever run a full marathon. I chuckled and said, "Most likely not." When he questioned why, I replied, "I have difficulty with 13.1, I can't even begin to imagine doing 26.2." He gave me a small smile, mulling over my answer, before responding with, "Yea, but I bet you thought you could never do 13.1 either, and here you are planning to do at least 2 other half marathons." I was silent. I, honestly, had never thought about that. 26.2 miles just seems like such an intimidating number to me. But, then again, when I started training for my first 5k, so did 13.1miles. I swore up and down I would never run a half marathon- and now, not only have I already done 1, I'm planning to do 2 others. The more I thought about it, the more the idea of running a full marathon intrigued me. I think I may do it (which if anyone knows me, you know this is a HUGE thing for me to say). If I do decide to train and run a full marathon, it will not be this year as I'm already commited to my Hartford half training again, but I may do it next year. Perhaps in February 2013 I will run the Princess Half and then start training for the ING Full Marathon in October 2013.

I'm not fully committed to the idea yet, but it is something I'm keeping in the back of my mind.



Honk If You're a Runner!

Alright folks, today marks the start of Week 2 in my Half Marathon training.

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I was scheduled to do a 30minute run, and I did. I actually ran a little further than 30 minutes- mostly because when I started out on my run, I decide I was going to do a different route. Instead of just shooting for a 2 mile/30 minute run, I opted to do 2.3 miles. The whole run actually took 33:10, which is pretty awesome if you ask me. I hit the 2 mile mark exactly at 30minutes. Woot woot!

As I was running today, I had numerous vehicles honk and wave as they drove by. It was kind of flattering and super supportive! My favorite was the truck that drove past, just as I hit the end of my run and started to walk. The man slowed down a bit, stuck his head out the window and yelled, "Don't give up honey! You can do it!" I waved and smiled, and debated if I should respond, but I was too busy catching my breath.
If I do run into that guy another day, I will be sure to let him know that I didn't give up and I definitely don't intend on doing so. EVER.

My run was pretty nice- cool weather, new path, kept a faster pace for a longer amount of time, felt good for the first 20 minutes before I started to feel myself slowing down. The only concern I had was as I was around 25minutes, my abs on my left side started to feel like they were pinching. Maybe it was from trying to make sure I continued to hold myself upright? I don't know. It didn't hurt or anything, just felt weird.

Anyway, sorry it's such a short update! I've got a very busy week ahead of me- lots of work and rehearsals till late because I open a new show this weekend. YAY!!

Give It A Try

I ran today.

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I feel a sense of pride when I hear myself say that. Does anyone else?

I may not have gone fast- I definitely wouldn't stand a chance against Kara Goucher- but I still ran.
I woke up this morning and was starting to debate with myself if I was in the mood to run. Before that tiny, little, nay-saying voice could really start convincing me not to run, I threw on my clothes and sneakers and headed outside. I PUT myself in the mood to run- and it feels good.

That's the one thing that has me addicted to running- I battle and struggle and have to keep myself constantly motivated while running, but when I'm done, there's this huge sense of accomplishment that washes over me. I love that feeling.

Anyway, today was Day 2 of Week 1 of Half Marathon Training 2012. According to my plan (which you can find HERE), it was supposed to be a 30 minute run, but I finished it in 29:16. I ran the first 3 minutes, then started my run/walk alternation (I am keeping with my 2:1 run/walk ratio for the first 3 weeks of my training, then, depending upon how I am progressing, I may bump it to 3:1). It felt good. I really pushed myself for the first mile, finished it in 12:34, but I know I should slow my first mile down and start pushing myself more during mile 2 so I can get my body used to doing negative splits.

I am a little worried that, since I haven't done that much running in the past few months, I'm basically starting from scratch again. Last year, I was hoping that by the time I got to this point I would be able to run about 3 miles non-stop. Oh well. Life happens, right? I've just got to buckle down and really stay disciplined this year. I'm hoping that after a few weeks my currently non-existent muscle memory will kick in and my runs will improve. Here's to wishful thinking, right?!

Wordless Wednesday Motivation

Take that Inner Doubter!



Half Marathon Training 2012 has Officially BEGUN!

Started off on Sunday with a nice 25 minute run (since I knew beforehand that I wouldn't be able to do it today). Up next, a 30minute run tomorrow.

BRING IT ON!

Every New Beginning

First off, let me say thank you to everyone who left me a comment on my last post. You don't know how much I appreciated hearing all of your supportive and kind words. Truly, thank you!

I had a moment of clarity in between bouts of craziness yesterday.
I've decided that instead of trying to continuously revamp and re-do my plans to reach my goals for this year, I'm just going to start over.

Simple as that.

Today is a new beginning. I'm starting fresh and excited. And, I have new goals!

Turns out I won't be able to do the Diva Long Island Half this year. So, instead, I'm going to do the ING Hartford half again. Why not? I had a blast last year! I'm also in the works of making sure I can get to the Disney Princess Half in February next year (but more to come on that later).

I have been doing some research and I think I found a great training program (designed by Jeff Galloway nonetheless). It's 19 weeks and the runs seems pretty doable. 3 runs a week, plus one easy walk. I realized this past weekend, just how out of shape my body is again. I haven't really run in awhile (though I have gotten to the gym and done arc trainer and elliptical machines- not the same though).When I finished my Race in the Park 5k this past Saturday, I was SORE. I mean, felt like those 3.1 miles were actually 13.1 miles, sore. Today is the first day that I can walk without wincing. That, to me, is unacceptable! I used to have no problem running 3.1 miles and being only slightly sore the next day and I want to get back to that.

I've even started setting up a support system to help me stay on track. I've asked family members, my boyfriend, and coworkers to help me make sure I do my runs and stay disciplined on my training. I'm printing out my training schedule so that everyone has a copy so I have no excuse like, "I can't remember what I have to do today". I WANT to be held accountable for my training. I've even come up with some back-up plans in case a morning run is missed (keeping an extra pair of running gear in my car so on my lunch break, I can sneak in a short run). I feel confident that I can do this.

I'm hoping that you all will hold me accountable as well. I truly feel that a huge part of my success last year at the half marathon was because I was blogging so often and you all were amazing enough to leave comments, supportive notes, tips, tricks, advice, etc. I want to do that again. I'm going to start off slow and work my way up (just like with my training). My goal is to blog 2 times a week, then 3, then 4, etc, etc. Even if I didn't run or train on a particular day, I still want to blog. I may even give my blog a face-lift (if I can figure out how to work this new blogger layout. ugh.).

Sound like a plan to yall? Seems like a good start to me!
Cheers to a new beginning!!

Baby, I'm Back

I am back!

Hooray!

You do remember me, right? Right?!

I certainly hope so. Even though I've been super lame the past month or so and haven't updated at all.

Let me sum the past month or so my life up for you in a nutshell.

Freak winter storm and no electricity/power for over a week.
Rehearsing two shows simultaneously.
Working two jobs simultaneously.
My sister's wedding in Black Island.
HOLIDAYS!!!
Starting a new full time job while rehearsaing two shows and working a seperate part time position.

Kind of hectic, yes? Well, maybe it doesn't seem hectic when it's all nicely listed like that, but if you had seen a snapshot of my calendar, you might have cried or run screaming from the computer and found yourself rocking in a corner. I know that's how I felt.
Needless to say, I haven't had any free time to do anything even remotely athletic. (Especially with the freezing weather that just decided to grace our area of the world.) However, I am officially done with 1 show and am out of rehearsals for the second show- and work is slowing down a bit (for now) so I'm hoping to get back to running this week. Maybe not necessarily outside, but at least I want to hit the gym a few times.
I am so severely behind on my Princess training that it stresses me out even thinking about it. I need to sit down and just review everything and reformat my plan of action for February. I'm sure I will find that time soon enough. But, for now, just to get myself up and moving again, I'm going to get myself to the gym and do some 3-5mile runs throughout the week.

My goal is to have a new plan of attack by next Monday. Sounds do-able, right? Here's hoping.
Now, I just need to fight this tickle that has started in my throat and cross all my fingers that I don't get a cold. Emergen-Cee, Airborn and apple juice will become my new best friends. Sickness is not allowed!!!

Anyway, sorry again for the sudden hiatus with my blogging. There's no real excuse other than that all my free time was used for sleeping, haha. But, I am back (again) and will be up and running in no time soon!

Three Things Thursday

Officially my first Three Things Thursday post!

(Why haven't I done this before?)

1. I was surfing the internet for a new wallpaper for my computer last night because I like to put up motivational running shots to get me going. I mean, what better way to remind yourself of what you should be doing than plastering it all over your computer screen? That way, when I've been sitting too long at my computer, playing on Facebook when I should be getting some training in, I have a little extra push right there in front of me. Anyway, I came across this photo:

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Needless to say, it's perfect for me! Not only is it the background on my computer, it is also now the wallpaper on my phone. I love it!!

2. It is hard to find a pair of green running shoes that are similar to my current Kinvaras. I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Saucony Kinvara 2s. They are slightly minimalist (which I feel helps my form a bit) with mesh on top that allows my feet to breathe. Plus, they're BRIGHT PINK! Alas, for the Disney Princess Half I need my feet and legs to be green, which means I need green shoes. As of yet, Saucony doesn't have anything that really fits my needs, so I guess I will continue to look around. (Though on Facebook, Saucony mentioned some of their new products that will be coming out soon! Keep your fingers crossed!).

3. I am finally beginning to feel human again after my half marathon. Here is a list of what hurt- see if you can compare to any aches/pains you had during your first half! Sore and tight calves (to the point where I couldn't touch them because they hurt so much), swollen hands (too much salt in my system?), aching shoulders/upper back (from trying to hold myself upright for so long), chaffed inner thighs (I forgot to put on my anti-chaffing... I will never forget again!) and a wrenched left torso (the muscle that starts at your spine and wraps around your ribs? Yea, I managed to strain that... hurt to breathe). Thankfully nothing too major was pulled/sprained/fell off while running, so I guess I'm pretty lucky.

Let It Begin... Again

Thank you all SO much for all of your kind words and support. You don't know how much it means to me hearing so many praises and thoughtful things (especially considering most of us have yet to meet in person!). As I said in my last post, I'm not going to let that cruel-hearted, uninformed person get me down!!
So, today I decided to formulate my next training program for the Disney Princess Half!! YAY!

I intend on starting next week (yea, I'm taking the full week to recover haha), which will give me 18 weeks to train. Not too shabby! What I did was kind of mesh 3 different types of training programs into one. I formulated my days based on my work/life schedule and what has worked for me in the past (mileage/minute wise). My main focus for this run is going to be endurance. I want to be able to run 5 miles without stopping for the Princess Half. That's my goal!

So, here is what I came up with to help me get to my goal:

What're your thoughts on this?

As always, I am open to questions/comments/concerns. :)

ING Hartford Half Marathon Re-Cap

The moment you have all been waiting for: 

My FIRST Half Marathon Re-Cap!

Can you feel the excitement?!!

I have to say that I didn't plan this whole weekend out too well. I ended up having a show on Friday night (the race was Saturday morning) so I was dancing and running around a stage mere hours before I had to run. But, anyway, I managed to get to bed around 2am and woke up at 5:15am to shower and stretch/warm up before the race. My cheerleaders and I headed to Hartford for 6:30 so we could get some decent parking before the streets were shut down. The race started at 8 so I had plenty of time to relax and find friends before the run. I managed to snag a port a potty that was rather clean (probably because most people weren't at the race yet) and then waited for time to pass. I will be honest, there were TONS of butterflies in my stomach but I was also so amped up! As you may have seen, the local paper did an article on myself and why I was running and it went out the day of the race! How cool is that?!

When 8am finally rolled around, I laced up my pink sneakers (and green compression sleeves) and headed towards the back of the pack. The horn sounded the start of the race and about 8minutes later I finally got to cross the starting line. I popped in both ear buds, cranked up the music and kept my pace slow and light. My goal was to finish in 4 hours, but I was wearing a 3:30 pace bad because I felt like the extra adrenaline of the day might give me some added speed. I managed to run about 3 miles before I had to stop and walk (which is a new record for me!) but I felt good. I grabbed water when I could and continued with my pacing. The course was gorgeous, the weather was perfect and my music was rocking! Before I knew it, I was crossing the 6 mile mark at 1:37:06 (roughly a 16min/mile pace). Not too shabby! I was definitely on track for finishing in 3:30.

By this point in time I had already grabbed a Gatorade and had finished off a GU. I did notice some slight swelling in my hands and fingers, but it wasn't anything major, so I kept going. Then, again, before I knew it, I was crossing mile 9! Where had miles 7 and 8 gone?! I checked my pace band against the timer and saw that I was nearly 30 minutes ahead of my band- CRAZINESS!! I nearly started crying when I hit mile 10 and knew that I only had a 5k left to go. Then mile 11 came and mile 12 and before I could really contemplate it, mile 13 was behind me and I was turning the corner to go into the Finisher's Lane. I had run most of mile 11 and part of 12, but I had slowed to a walk because my legs were incredibly fatigued, both hands were horribly swollen to the point where it hurt to clench them, and I had a major cramp in my left side. As I started into the Finisher's Lane, I amped myself up to start running again and bounded off... for about 5 seconds before BOTH of my calves erupted into charlie horses. Two charlie horses... at the same time.... I though I was going to collapse 100 yards from the finish. I started sobbing and slowed to a limp. I ended up stopping 4 times before I finally crossed the finish because I was trying to stretch out the cramps. It was no use though, the cramps persisted even as the medal was hung around my neck and a water bottle was handed to me.

However, despite the amount of pain that I was in, I still managed to finish my first half in 3:07:25! An hour faster than my goal time and 30 minutes faster than my "I'm going to really push myself" PR time. No wonder I couldn't hold myself upright for almost an hour afterward. I literally gave that race everything I had (and believe me, I'm still recovering from it). I have to say I'm pretty friggin proud of myself though. I refused to give up and I pushed myself beyond my limits. So my hips are stiff and my calves are sore and I completely wrenched my entire left side of my torso to the point where it hurts when I breathe? I still had fun and I can't wait to do another race! On top of it all, even though I went home and rested after I ran, I still had another performance to do that night so I was back up on stage singing and dancing away. I honestly do feel a little bit like Wonder Woman haha.

There's only one down side, I received a letter in the mail in response to the article that was written about why I was running in the half marathon. I came home from work today to find this letter in my mail box:

People can be so unintelligent and cold-hearted. I feel bad that this person missed the entire point of the article and is basing all of their information off of a photograph (which, if you saw the article, is actually a very nice shot). Oh well, I'm not letting it get me down or ruin how proud I am of myself. I accomplished something that I never in my life thought I would do and no one can take that away from me.

Officially a Half Marathoner

I finished my FIRST HALF MARATHON!!

And ..........

my official time was 3:07:25!!!

Holy crap crackers Batman!! That's almost an hour faster than I planned!

 More to come later when I can stand again.

Oh! And here is a link to the article they did on me.

Anticipation

Today's emotion of the day is Antici.....

...........pation!

(See what I did there? Made you anticipate the end of the word. Genius, right? Bonus points if you can catch the musical movie reference I stole that from)

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*Ahem*  Moving right along....

Anticipation [an-tis-uh-pey-shuhn]: Noun.  

1. Realization in advance; foretaste, 2. expectation or hope.

I am FULL of anticipation about this race. I keep wondering about weather conditions, the race course, the fans on the side, what the medal is going to look like, if I can keep up with one of the pace coaches or if I should just go my own, how my stomach is going to do, if I can make it up the hills, will I need a medic, will I be the last one to finish, can I actually DO this? Ahhh! So many things to think about! But, despite any negative thoughts that sometimes pop into my head, I also anticipate crossing the finish line and having an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment. My finish goal is 4 hours. I know a lot of people who finish in 3 hours or so... I don't care. I'm aiming for 4 hours. If it takes less time, power to me, but I want to set a reachable goal for myself. 

I'm also trying to decide if I should run with or without a watch on. Sometimes I feel like having the watch on is helpful because I can work a pace and time how long my walk/run breaks are, but then other times I feel like I'm utterly chained to my watch and timing myself. Double -edged sword I guess. Any thoughts on that? I know you're not supposed to change anything up for race day, but it's a thought I'm playing around with for right now. 

Going back to my emotion of the day- my feeling of anticipation seems to be a positive emotion as well. I picture myself crossing the finish line, and beating my 4 hour goal. I just have to hold onto this feeling and not let fear/doubt/anxiety creep in come race day.

Oh! And in answer to Kurt's question on my last post, yes, I will be running with music on. I will only have one headphone bud in, but I want to have my own music because I've learned what songs pump me up the most. Maybe in another year or so I can learn to run sans music, but for right now, I feel it's a good option for me.

First Race Jitters Part 1.

As it stands now my first ever half marathon is about 2 weeks away. 

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AHHHH!!

I would be lying if I didn't say that I'm starting to freak out. I feel like I'm just not prepared enough. I mean, I've been running my behind off.... almost literally.... but a part of me is convinced that I didn't train hard enough. I'm still only averaging a 15 min/mile or so for anything over 4 miles. Ugh. I was hoping to finish as close to 3 hours as possible, but I think my PR is going to be finishing under 4 hours. Blah.

I know, I know... I shouldn't be so hard on myself. It's my first big race, I've trained hard, I know I can run/walk the distance and it's supposed to be fun. But it's so hard to squash the competitive part of me that wants to be perfect. I realize it's going to take me a good couple of years before I increase my endurance and speed to a point that is anywhere near most people, but I'm impatient. I want to run fast now! *pout*

Ok... I'm done venting for the evening. I need to go to bed so I can start my7 hell of a long week, which includes, but is not limited to: working two jobs, applying for other jobs, rehearsing, performing, zumba, training, occasionally sleeping and eating. Woot! Bring it on world, I'm ready to tackle it all!