"look who's back, back again..."

I'm baaaaack! Haha after a nice week and a half of doing absolutely NOTHING I took a nice 4+ mile run last night. When we got back from vacation I just didn't feel the whole running thing. But I am happy to say I ran while I was away! That's the first time I've ever worked out on a vacation. And yes, it felt very strange packing sneakers to take to a tropical island. But once we got back I just wasnt feeling it. I was exhausted and I ended up getting sick for a few days. BUT I'm ready to start again and my pants are ready for some extra space as well! Ha! 
I shouldve known last night was going to be a crap workout as soon as I was about to run... First I couldn't find my earphones that stay in my ear so I had the crappy ones, then I forgot my iPod, then the tv station on the treadmill kept going staticy on my earphones so i had to run listening to nothing. And as i have previously mentioned i am one of "those" runners. Totally took my mind out of the workout. But I was pleasantly surprised at how much I WASN'T out of breath during my run! Sweet! Only 2 more weeks until real training starts.. Eeeek! 
Oh! Oh! Oh! Another big development: the hubby bought me my christmas gift when we got back. I am the proud owner of big girl running shoes from the big dawgs themselves: PR Running. I officially fell in love with the store! And I was surprised and at the same time had one of those lightbulb going on moments, when Keith the runner explained why I needed to get a size and a half BIGGER than my usual size. To save my toes when my feet swell from training! DUR! That makes so much sense and I never even thought of that! The hubby also bought me big deal running socks that will supposedly help with blisters and all that jazz. I splurged on myself and got a massage roller thingy that my BFF had in Atlanta and some reflector things to put on my arms when I run at night. Keith the runner tried to talk me into a head lamp thing but I'm not quite there yet! Ha. On your mark, get, GO!! :)

"You will never succeed beyond your wildest dreams unless you are willing to have some wild dreams.”

Bienvenidos a Miami! Soon st. Lucia

So I guess after my mini vacation to Atlanta I wasn't too motivated to blog, so here is my quick recap of training this week as I get ready to head to St. Lucia... :) (don't worry I brought 1 workout outfit and sneakers, just incase I decide a run will help with my piña colada indulgences.)
I had a great run on monday night which I mentioned. And on Tuesday, Tony the tiger killed my upper body with large amounts of pushups. Wednesday I was exhausted and took the night off. And on Thursday instead of bootcamp, I decided to get a good running workout in since Friday after work I had to bring Hank the wonder dog to my parents, and pack, and leave at 3:00 AM for the airport.
On Thursday I decided to hit the treadmill for another round of sprint miles and sprint 400's (is that even the technical running term for those!?) While in Atlanta I ran a mile in 7:something and my goal was to push myself to do a sub 7 minute mile. So for my first one I am glad to announce I busted my ass and pulled out a 6:28 mile! Heck yeah! Granted it was on the treadmill but I still did it and my next 3 miles were all in the 7 minute range! I was pretty happy and extremely sweaty after that. My 400's were all about 1:30 each. That's the one thing I enjoy about using the treadmill, I can set a speed and run until I think I'm going go fall off the back of the treadmill. I have to admit my legs were jello when i was running. I felt like i had lead in my sneakers. Now sitting on the plane I am nervous to move too much as i feel a horrid hamstring cramp lurking in the shadows! However, I know I kicked my own ass and I like that.
I also had one of those "aha" moments at boot camp on Tuesday... I LOVE running!! A LOT more than bootcamp... I was in the middle of a minute of left arm forward pushup thingys and I was thinking, "I wonder if I would be going by burncoat pizza right now if I were running". Don't get me wrong, I understand how much good this bootcamp stuff is doing for me for running, but I'm really not a "lifter". Sorry BFF, but this girl would rather mapmyrun any day rather than "lift things up and put them down". :) good thing since I will be running 26.2 consecutive miles here soon! But I have officially decided to cut back my bootcamps to 1 a week rather than 3, now instead of January. This way my body can recover better and I'll be able to get in another run. :) so there you have it, my week in a long rambling paragraph. I'll update you if I decide to run on a tropical island or just lay on the beach all week! :)

"the only one who can tell you, you can't is you, and you don't have to listen." :)

Taking it back old school hahahah

Hello 1990! Ha with it being so nice out last night I decided to just wear my older clothes, not my new fancy shmancy running clothes. I had on my grey sweats with the elastic at the bottom and a grey sweatshirt! Lol. Nice sweatsuit! Lol. I felt like a real runner though, because after 15 minutes of running I didnt need my crew neck sweatshirt, so I dropped it on the side of the street and picked it up after I returned from the other direction. Since I didn't have my high tech gear I didn't have anywhere for my inhaler besides my bra and I had to hold my iPhone instead of securing it into my pocket. However since i had those nice elastics on the bottom I was able to turn my pants into capris ahhaah. Who knew those were 2-in-1 pants :). It was beautiful out last night and I wanted to run all night! But I got 4.55 miles in, in 39.50 minutes! I would love to be able to run all 26.2 miles at that pace or faster so I gotta keep it up... Perhaps my faster time was all that training I did in Atlanta, or perhaps it was one of my wishes coming true from the shooting star I saw Sunday night. (I made a few wishes, in hopes 1 would come true :) ). Ha. Whatever it was, I was pleased :)
I can't believe I am saying this! But I was very angry at my holy Grail today while reading the "womens marathoning" chapter while Girl was at gymnastics! Hal Higdon actually made a training schedule for when you are on your period... And the way he spoke of it was like a slap in the face or rather a gentle pat on the top of the hand saying "you are going to be ok". No shit it's just my period, not the end of the world! Last time I checked, I never for a minute thought I'd need special training treatment because of my period! I know for sure in college I got a big "that sucks, go catch that fly ball" from my coach (who was female). Gosh I'm really perturbed by that section of my book. Are there really females out there that think special treatment is needed for this monthly annoyance!?!? Get over it. Gosh that really got to me! Does this not bother other females!?
Anywho, tonight is my first bootcamp in over a week, this could get ugly :)

"After a good run, I feel like I am capable of anything"
"Running reminds us that we are alive"

Just breathe

My bi weekly rant: and warning some people may not like it and I may drop a few f bombs...
Hopefully I wont have to say this again for a long tome but for all of our "family" and "friends" STOP interfering and giving us your two cents about OUR life. Contrary to popular belief my husband and I have spoken before and we know what WE want. No one else lives under our roof or in OUR situation. So please atop with the fucking baby bullshit. When and IF there is ever a time when WE want to have a child WE will go about that process when WE are ready and or able to... I do not understand when something so personal came to be anyone elses business. What YOU chose doesn't have to be what WE choose. And it would be awesome for EVERYONE to respect the fact that WE are going to do things on OUR time. The husband and I don't go into your homes and tell you how to live your life, so STOP doing it to us. Jesus Christ I feel like Clark Griswold, where the eff is the aspirin!? Lol.

But on a workout rant... Even being away for the past few days I was able to get some great runs in. I love having a BFF who enjoys working out. It is so nice to have someone support what you are trying to accomplish instead of asking "why are you wanting to do that?" So thanks BFF for being a good workout partner :). And eating ALL day was done semi without guilt since we dragged ourself to the gym before thanksgiving :). My new training goal is to run a mile under 7 minutes :) that's never happened and will be a fun mini goal throughout this process. And my knees thank me for taking time off from bootcamp and squats and lunges. 
I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday and black Friday deals... I am almost at 6 months before the big day! Eeek! 

Keep digging deeper.. you will find what you passionately pursue for! 

Gobble gobble gobble! :)

According to mcmillianrunning.com my race time should be 4:08.... This is going off my best half marathon time of 1:58 and keeping a race pace of 9:30... Perhaps do-able. I was reading the holy Grail on the plane and it talked about joining a pace team during the race. This is something I very well may do. I know so many people say enjoy the first one, just be happy to finish. But I can't just finish. If I am going to do this, it may be my only chance to finish a marathon. Depending on my knees I may not get to another race, so I want to do the best I can. I am putting in a lot of pre race educating and training so I want to do the best my body will let me.
With it being thanksgiving, here is what my thankful list is: (happy thanksgiving everyone!)

1. Super family and friends, you all know who you are.
2. When I open the door and Hank the wonder dog is jumping up and down to see me.
3. Having a job. 
4. Owning a house, even though I can NOT wait to sell it! :)
5. Vacation time
6. The first trip to the beach after a long Massachusetts winter.
7. How warm Ugg's keep my feet.
8. New gym socks. Love how they  feel!
9. Good music. Yes "good" may differ from person to person :)
10. My "health". Asthma aside, I have been pretty lucky in this department, knock on wood!!!
11. New running clothes. Only because I never thought I'd be "that" person who owned real workout clothes. I lived in baggy tshirts and mesh shorts until about 2 years ago...
12. Sleeping in as late as I want. 
13. Sam summer. Yes, after the snow is gone I look forward to the day the liquor store starts carrying this again :)
14. Cape cod
15. Laughing
16. Sunday cookouts, corn hole, grilling, and family every Sunday from memorial day until labor day.
17. Fall foliage
18. Finding the best gifts for someone.
19. Flip flops
20. Being good at multi tasking and scheduling, perhaps a bit of a type a but I'd rather that than be a mess!
21. Being able to have seen a lot of the USA, and traveling to the places I have been!
22. Boston. And being able to enjoy the city and sports teams associated with Boston... Even if people wear pink hats! Ha
23. And for having a "good life". Sure it's not perfect, and there are ups and downs, but I have been so fortunate for the life I have, especially compared to what others may have had to go through... Thank you to everyone who is or was a part of my life, you all had some part of where I am today. :)

"Anyone can run 20 miles. It's the next six that count." - Barry Magee

Agh gym meat heads... Thanks for the entertainment :)

Take that dumb meat head wanna be boy at the gym! My favorite part of being at the gym is when the d-bags "check" you out and decide coming onto the treadmill right next to you will really impress you. Especially when you have been running for 20 minutes and dripping sweat, and he jumps on and tries to sprint it out to look like he is a cool runner. News flash, your not fooling anyone, especially since you lasted 6 minutes before getting off. Idiot. 

So sunday I drank a slimfast before my run and it went well with not being hungry. Yesterday I had a my whey protein shake with banana and almond milk AND homemade meatloaf, mashed potatos, and corn before I went for my run... And I felt awesome! The moral of the story is I need to eat, a lot. Lol forget carbo loading the night before the race, I'm going to have to have my meal a half hour before I start! At the halfway point I will need my second course ;). Is this normal!? Geez. But I also ate well through out the day, I didn't have ANY junk- An egg with cheese for breakfast, spicy tuna sushi for lunch and a piece of bread, and then my shake and meatloaf dinner... Trust me, that for me is a very good day :)

I am starting to feel like I did 2 years ago when I used to run all the time. However this time I feel stronger. I actually have some muscle which is helping with my endurance, and I am actually educating myself about nutrition this time and how eating at the right time and amount will actually help me get a better workout in. Crazy to think huh? Ha. If anyone is wanting to run a marathon, or even a half, I recommend reading Hal Higdon's marathon training guide. Just saying :)

"Laziness is nothing more than the habit of resting before you get tired." Jules Renard 

Mirror, mirror on the wall... Please don't let me see anymore grey!!

Well last night I dreamed I looked in the mirror and kept seeing new grey hairs but no one else saw them but me, and everywhere I went there were mirrors! Goodness... After that dream I have decided that if I do end up with hair dye I will do something different, not just match the color I have now! Might as well go big or go home right?

So yesterday (Sunday) I went for a great 5 mile run! It felt really great. And I also bought my first bottle of almond milk and container of whey protein... I must admit, with a half of banana and some ice cubes it was pretty tasty. I am going to have to rely on the whey a little more than I thought I would. I was semi keeping track of how much protein I eat and I am far from where I need to be. The holy Grail mentioned that just because i will be running more doesn't mean it gives me a license to over eat... I think the protein shakes with almond milk will help me out with that. Before I went for my run yesterday I had a slimfast shake and I didn't feel hungry at all. So that's always good news...

And I also realized I really need to sign up for a half marathon in February or march to assess where I am before the actual marathon. Problem is, there are only 2 that I found, one in hyanis, and one in new bedford... I'm going to need opinions before I make up my mind with which one I decide to do... I'm leaning towards hyannis, anyone have thoughts/experience with it?
Well im off to pack for ATL, but don't you worry, what BFF wouldn't get me a pass to a gym so I can continue to work out while away!? 


"Running helps me believe I can"

Protein anyone?

Determined! I am determined to get through my boot camp stations 4 complete times!! Every few weeks Tony sets up 3 stations with about 4 exercises in each with 10 minutes to get through it as many times as you can. Each time are different exercises. How often we rest is up to us, but we have 10 minutes per station. On average I get through 3.5 times. Grrrrr! I WILL get through 4 complete times, and what made it worse is that I asked Tony if anyone does 4 and, 2 people do! I am on a mission!!! Even if I am keeling over and my arm muscles are throbbing, I WILL do 4!! :)
Thank goodness for Tony! I am lucky to have him as a boot camp instructor. Since he has completed marathons and ironman's he has knowledge about things I don't. Mostly hungry Lynne. :) obviously my activity level has increased the past few weeks. I expressed my concern about running for such a short time and already being hungry and he told me that I may need to have to do gel packs every 45 minutes!! He said it's just the way my body works while I run. So bring on the fanny packs! I'm going to need to store those gel packs somewhere besides my sports bra! :) and did you know that when REAL training starts I'm going to have to make sure I'm eating my weight in grams of protein everyday! Holy eggs! Tony the tiger said that will also help me stay feeling full... I didn't know this running stuff was so detailed! Bring on the eggs, chicken, and peanut butter, this girl has to eat! :) Have a great weekend!!

"There are many wonderful things that will never be done if you do not do them." ~ Charles D. Gill via

Hungry girl strikes again!

How often is it raining and in the 50's at night in mid November!? Well obviously not too often, so I put on my sneakers and headed out in the rain/sprinkle mix last night. Since the marathon is the first weekend of May, you never know what the weather will be like. So off I went. It was a pretty decent run. I only ran for about 33 minutes before I turned into hungry Lynne again! What is wrong with me!? How am I going to run for four + hours? I can't strap a cooler onto my back! Perhaps a cooler on wheels will have to become my running companion! As soon as I walked into the house, I didn't take my wet vest or shoes off, I went over to the hubby and literally stole his bowl of peas! He promptly recited the SNL skit with chris Farley and the French fries- you know when he is at the mall dressed as a woman and asks his friend for a fry and inhales all of them. And the friend says something about eating better and chris farley yells, "lay off me I'm starving." well that was me last night! What is going on with me!? I was only out for 33 minutes!! And at least it was a bowl of peas and not ice cream that I decided to pig out on, right!? Hahah. But besides being hungry my run was really good. The heartbreak hill near my house isn't exactly getting easier, but I am consistently making it to the top now :). And my form and legs felt pretty good for being the day after bootcamp. So overall, I was pleased. Wet, but pleased. :)

So last night I googled marathon signs. And I found some pretty funny signs the spectators held while cheering for the runners. My favorites included: "worst parade ever", "puke and rally" (remember varsity blues!? Hahah), "don't stop, people are watching", "beat Oprah", and "you have great stamina, call me". There were also a bunch of inspirational ones too, but I defiantly got a good chuckle out of those. I may have to run the marathon with a camera so I can take some pictures of the ones in providence. Why not just buy a jogging stroller and pack it with food, drinks, camera, extra clothes, and a boom box. That way I won't have to wear headphones! BRILLIANT! :) who needs one of those belts that holds drinks when you can have a whole stroller!? Ha.

"Don't just race for time, race for the love of the race, the people you meet along the way, and the strangers & friends you inspire"

Hungry Lynne is not a happy Lynne :)

Ahhh so maybe the whole rest days are more important than i was giving them credit for. I took Friday AND Sunday off and for my run yesterday my legs felt awesome!!! Instead of dragging on Sunday after bootcamp Saturday, I listened to Tony and I'm glad I did. :) my legs felt fresh along with my lungs. My form felt good because my legs weren't dragging. Ahhh, mission achomplished. :)

So my mom had mentioned to me that for training I should run to her house and she would drive me home. Initially I thought she would have to pick me up before I got to her house... She lives a few towns over so I decided to mapmyrun to find out. She only lives 18 miles away! For my longest run during training I have to do 20!! Yikes. I only have to run through 3 towns... Think of the Boston marathon! You have to run what seems like so much further... In providence the whole race is in the city. Man. A bit overwhelming to think of the actual distance. So while talking to the hubby about this distance stuff he decided to look up how big st. Lucia is because we are going there in a few weeks... The whole island is only 27 or 28 miles! I can run the whole island! Crazy. 

I have been thinking back to my half's that I have run lately. Like I mentioned yesterday, I never really trained. I decided to run my first one because I had my tonsils out and when I was recovered I started running a lot more. For my first half the most I ran prior to it was 8 miles on a treadmill. For the other 2 races I ran even less and they were all on treadmills as well. Needless to say my first race was my best time. And the last one I did I hit that "runners wall" people talk about. And boy did I hit it head on. Race day was was a mix of rain and snow (in October) and I was freezing and soaked! Around mile 9ish I remember feeling like I couldn't feel my legs. I also remember getting super hungry! I'm not a huge breakfast person but I had a bagel with peanut butter and oatmeal. (what I had for my other races too) I'm not sure if it was because I was so cold from the rain and snow and ocean water coming over the walls, but I was starving! At mile 12 I just kept saying, "I can see the finish line just make it there". Looking back I know I was not prepared for those running conditions. And because of that I experienced that runners wall big time. Although I finished that race, I think I only knocked down a brick in the wall instead of the whole thing. I have realized I need to educate myself more on nutrition and the proper way to eat before and during the race. Hungry Lynne is not a happy Lynne. :) I see gel packs and power bars in my future...

"Running your first marathon is like losing your virginity, once you get started you don't want to stop" unknown

Monday, Monday

I was asked why am I doing this? (in a voice that sounded disgusted at the thought)
Well let's start with the obvious: to stay healthy. The number of obese people amazes me and I don't want to be part of the growing (literally) trend. I would like to be around for awhile and being in good shape/being healthy will hopefully allow for that. 
Also, this goes with the just mentioned, but running keeps my waistline in check. It's a great way to be able to eat what I love (everything!!) without feeling guilty...
I do this so I don't have to buy new clothes from eating the previously stated amounts of goodness. 
I am doing this to push myself further than I've ever pushed myself. Sure the halves were hard, but the last one I "ran" I didn't train for and was still able to complete it. I know that wouldnt be able to happen for 26.2 miles!
I am doing this to prove to myself that I can. To prove that my body can do it (even with my ever present grey hairs and non functioning knees). 
I am doing this because I recently learned that Oprah friggen Whinfrey ran one! Are you kidding me?! If she can than I can!! 
I am doing this because I truly do enjoy running. I've mentioned before it's a time I have just for myself. I think that's important whether it's running, spa days, shopping, going to a concert, whatever, everyone should have something just for them.
I am doing this in hopes to find an excuse to get the hubby to travel more so I can run in some fun places. Imagine running a marathon in Bermuda!? 
I am doing this because I am sick of saying, while watching the marathon every year, "hey, I really want to do that next year". No more excuses. This body isn't getting any younger! (unfortunately)
And speaking of watching a marathon, I can't wait to be one of the people that the others are cheering for and to see some funny signs. :)
And last but not least, I am doing this so I too can acquire one of those damn 26.2 stickers! :) 

"Training is the opposite of hoping." - Nike 
"If you have to ask us why we run, you'll never understand." 

Pump it up, it's a fun time for all :)

Guess where I want my 30th birthday!?!? I've never been to this once dreaded birthday Mecca for 3-9 year olds. While teaching I've gotten some invites to attend what I thought was hell on earth. So I graciously declined the offer... However with it being veterans day the children three are home from school and I decided to brave the masses and bring them for some tiring fun :) (obviously I have alterior motives for children fun day). Well what a pleasant suprise I had!!!! Though a bit crowded for my liking, I got in a mini workout on the inflatable obstacle course! I will admit I was huffing and puffing trying to keep up with the children three. :) who says turning the dreaded 3-0 will have to be boring! Pump it up here I come!! :)

On a training note... I spoke with my boot camp instructor last night after class because I have days when I think my legs are getting too big to run such a far distance. I know my legs are defiantly my strongest body part and I can lift a lot with them. However with boot camp 3 nights and running the others I felt like my legs were always tired and sore. But Tony insured me my legs are not too big. He told me what I need is to take more days off a week. He said a minimum of 1 but I need to do 2. We agreed once real training starts i should only be going to boot camp 1 day a week... He also made me feel a little less anxious about running so many miles at one time. He also said I need to listen to the holy Grail and try the run walk method for training... I told him I felt it defeated the purpose of running, but he said to try it. Grrr. Ps Tony has run a few marathons and triathlons so he knows his stuff :). 
Well it's off to more children fun day at the bookstore and a special junk filled lunch :) happy veterans day!! :)

"I will do today what you won't, so tomorrow I can do what you can't" -Unknown
(thought this was a good one)

Enough with the rain on Thursday's!!

Eeeek! Bart Yasso is following me on twitter! The granddaddy of them all!!! So so so exited! He has run on every continent! Yes even Antarctica! He works with runners world magazine and offers great advice! I may have to stalk him at the Boston marathon in April to get to speak with him. :) I will have to get his book before then...

Well this is my off topic rant of the week: are you ready?? Ha
1. Sandusky. Seriously?! Penn state. Really!? Joe Paterno. Curly. Spainier. Really?! I saw an article that makes you think a little deeper: http://www.timesonline.com/columnists/sports/mark_madden/madden-sandusky-a-state-secret/article_863d3c82-5e6f-11e0-9ae5-001a4bcf6878.html?TNNoMobile
It is truly one of the most disturbing and disgusting things I've heard about in a while. Working with kids my whole life I could NEVER begin to understand what goes through those sick peoples minds. And for people to be aware and NOT do anything!? Shame on you! And what about the intern that ran home and called daddy!! Did you think Sandusky was going to do something to you if you said stop!? Guess what douchbag, you were about 10 years too old. Shame on you! I was "fortunate" to play a college sport at a division 1 school far away from home. In my sophomore year there was a mini scandal involving our assistant coach and a grown adult, and THAT affected us on my team. I couldn't even begin to think how I would feel knowing those a$$holes were doing/covering up such a horrific crime on my team. Especially, I'm sure many of those players are from out of state, you are supposed to think of your coaches as your "family". Geez, Good luck this weekend guys!
2.changing topics and not really a rant. But I am very excited for Christmas this year! After last year I decided to change our decor from blue and silver to red and green. I have been having a great time shopping for new decor! :) he he he. And we decided on our Christmas card theme this year! Last year was ugly sweaters, even Hank the wonder dog got one :). This year we will be... Tsk tsk, that will be a surprise of course. And shhh! But I hung up some Christmas stuff last night :) I couldn't help it. 
3. And rounding out my "rants and raves"... I am wondering currently about vitamins/supplements/meal replacement shakes. I will start by stating that I know I don't come close to getting enough calcium in my diet. I'm not a huge fan of milk... And I will have a yogurt every noe and then, but I can possibly guarantee i don't get enough in my diet. Should I take a calcium pill? I also have been thinking about a meal replacement shake. Not so much for weight loss but to get the nutrients I am not getting from my daily cheese-it snacks :). I've been trying to research the shakeology stuff, but was told I just need a simple whey protein powder... I'm still trying to piece some stuff together to come up with a good formula... 

"I know I feel more like myself when I run, even if it’s only a few miles, or at least I feel like the self I like best. Running inspires creativity, relieves stress, and gives us insight into ourselves and the world, making the human condition more tolerable." ~Bart Yasso

Goals, shmoals :)

Well good morning quads and shoulders! Holy moly bootcamp last night. Last night Tony tested our strength and I am excited to say I did 40 REAL pushups!!! Eeeek! I've NEVER done that many! However while at pier1 with Girl this morning I had to put my purse in the carriage because it was hurting my shoulders (in a good way of course). I like seeing the progress my body is making :)

You know what I realized I'm maybe the most excited about with this whole journey? I am going to be able to buy one of the 26.2 stickers for my car!! I was at the park this morning and saw one on a car and thought, "that person did it". He or she put the time and miles in to proudly say they finished running 26.2 miles at one time. When you are in a car that seems like such a small distance, even on a bike it doesn't seem too far. But to run that distance! There are so many people that will never be able to say they did that. I am so excited to test my body and my mind. Running that distance I am sure will take a toll on my mental thinking. I'm sure there will be miles that I'm thinking "what in the world were you thinking!?" or "I'm not sure if I am strong enough to finish this distance". But I will try to shush the evil thoughts with my mantra, "Dont. Even. Think. About. Quitting." 
There have been some people I've talked to about runnig a marathon and all of them said your only goal should be to finish... Even the holy Grail mentioned that for the first one. But I can't allow that to be my only goal. I'm not training for the race ONLY to say, "hey at least I finished". Nope. Im too competitive for that. I do have other smaller goals. They may seem silly to some but it's what I want to accomplish. For starters, my goal is to put my best effort into training to: 1.finish between 4 hours 20 minutes and 4 hours and 40 minutes. Yes that may be a big gap, but I've never run that far so I would like to leave some wiggle room. 2. Not to walk until mile 13.1. Since I have run a few half marathons I think this small goal can be accomplished. And by walking I don't mean when I stop for a cup of water. I have tried time and again to run while drinking from a cup only to spill half of it on my chest and choke on the other half. By walking I mean to put the brakes on and move to the side so others can pass me. And 3. Enjoy the race. Seems simple right? Well perhaps for some it would be. But I know I'm going to be running and looking at others gliding past me, thinking "cripes Lynne do better". But I am going to really try to enjoy each mile I run. To not beat myself up if in fact I do have to walk at mile 10 because I have a cramp. Enjoy the fact that I spent 7months training to be the best runner I can be. And if I cross the finish at 4:41:00 the world won't end. :)
So thanks for the "encouragement" but I know I can do better than "just finish". 

"Never settle for mediocrity when you can have greatness"

Entering the cyber world :)

Social media... Myspace- so 2004, Facebook- good for online stalking, and I never thought I'd say this but I gave in and am trying twitter! However don't let me fool anyone, I have no clue how to even upload a profile picture! Ha! But it is crazy how many people you can "follow" on there. And suprisingly it's really useful. I can follow anyone from BeachBody and Runners World Magazine to my daily dose of celebrity smut. All the while getting great advice and articles! I follow some runners on there as well. One in particular who just ran the marine Corp marathon after a serious back injury... She also started a blog about her training and I have to admit it helped inspire me! Did I decide to do this after some crazy freak accident? Am I doing this in conclusion with some insane physical overcoming? No. But, I am doing this for my own overall health, physically and mentally. I believe running is not only a great way to keep your body in shape, but also it keeps you mentally sane. Well, for me at least it does. When I am out there running I am focused on ME. Not Hank, or the hubby. It is time for me to make mental notes and lists for stuff I need. Sure I think about what I need to do next to get my house ready to sell. But I am also thinking about how much stronger my legs are getting and how much better I feel. I hash out the days events and plan on what I can do the next day with the children three that will be fun. I just feel GOOD running. I think about all the people who arent outside and how they aren't making a difference in their health. This is definately something that I am going to do that I can take away and be able to say, "I did this. I did this for ME. I did this to make ME better."
 
However, do I still think it's extremly strange that the most random people on earth can essentially cyber stalk me, yes. Do I still feel weird typing certain things on Facebook because god only knows who can see it, you bet. But I'm going to slowly enter 2011 (better late than never) and try to use the craziness of social media people have been using for a few years, to my benefit. The more tips and ideas and articles I can get that will help me, hopefully the better off I will be at the starting line. :)

"I've learned that finishing a marathon isn't just an athletic achievement. It's a state of mind; a state of mind that says anything is possible." John Hanc

Just another manic Monday...

So sorry for not writing all weekend, I was one busy lady! I literally tore all the carpets out of my house, nails and staples and all, while the hubby was at the casino. I was on a mission!! And I'm so glad to have it done, it's like we live in a new house :). I only got one run in on Sunday for 34 minutes... My mind wasn't in it, I was thinking of the new area rugs I wanted to buy and how insanely sore my hamstrings were from bending for 9 hours the day before. I stopped a few times during my run to pet a cute little pug :) and well, because my legs hurt! I have a new respect for handy men, that's for sure!! Even today (Monday) my hammies are sore to the touch! 
But I wanted to get out for a run tonight, it was unusually warm today so I definately wanted to get outside. I'm so glad I did!! I did the same route as last week but went a little further on the way back. I made a new playlist dedicated to running and zipped my iPhone into my pocket and just went. The weather was perfect tonight!! Even though it was pitch black at 4:45!! I am happy to report that I ran 4.27 miles in 38 minutes!!! I felt awesome! However I was also STARVING, and on my way back I run by burncoat pizza, which makes hungry-Lynne come out full force! Hahaha. Perhaps that's why I ran faster tonight, to get home to eat! Haha. 
I am starting to feel good with this running stuff, which I'm really excited about! I have also come up with a new theory about myself. We all know I am NOT a morning person. And even running at 10:30am isn't my best time of day. I really struggle with runs in the beginning of the day. It's like my body hasn't been able to move and get all the aches and cracks out of the way. But when I run at night, I feel so much better! It's like ive had all day to warm up my deteriorating knees, and I have gone up and down the stairs enough to get my quads in gear. Perhaps i have eaten enough through out the day to give me the energy i feel i lack in the morning. Why aren't there races at night!? There is one in July that ive seen before, in New Bedford I believe... I need to start a night race, I'd dominate ;) Ha. Ps- did I mention the marathon starts @ 7:30AM!? Oh boy!! This could be trouble! :) 

"Relish the bad training runs. Without them it's difficult to recognize, much less appreciate, the good ones."~Pat Teske

Trick or treat, smell my feet

Todays blog is going to be a rant, so I somewhat apologize now... 
Because of the freak snowstorm, Halloween was postponed until last night. Oh joy. If any of you don't know, I am not a fan of Halloween and last night put the icing on the cake. I should've sat on the porch in a rocking chair yelling to "get off my damn property" like the old bitter Betty I am slowly turning into. (thanks mom) I decided to not go to boot camp, my muscles needed a little break, but I thought I would go for another run... Until I tried driving home. In a .11 mile radius I witnessed a van of about 13 16 year olds unload on the side of the street, swerved into the other lane because two teeny boppers decided to embrace eachothers scantally clad costumed bodies in the road instead of the sidewalk next to them, and had to stop for a group of people "crossing" the street (with taking a much needed conversation break between the streets). And this was just before I got to my house...
Thank god the husband understands my disdain for this holiday and did door duty. But he would report back to me who was at the door. Since when do "kids" trick or treat without a bag!?!? Well since tonight I guess! A group of kids came to the door without a bag and held out their hands and didn't even say thank you!!! Then had the audacity to steal one of my white pumpkins!! Really boys? Because we didn't know they were all there before you came and mysteriously disappeared after you left my steps!? Or when you come up with one bag, get the candy inserted inside and then open up a second for more candy!?! 
Next year the lights are staying off, the curtains will be closed, and i will be at the gym. Sure I'll have some egg to clean off my siding but ill take it so i don't have to encounter another Halloween in this neighborhood! 
How is that for an angry almost middle aged person!? Lol. 
But incase you couldn't tell I wasn't about to go running through the mess of Tweens last night. I'm glad I took the night off from boot camp. My arms and shoulders thank me, but I am bummed I missed a run. That just means I will try to get in 2 good longer runs this weekend. 
On the brighter side of things: at this time in May, I will be carbo-loading and getting ready to hit the start line in providence! Eeek! A friend of mine posted a question on Facebook yesterday asking if people would rather train for a marathon or go through child birth... I think we all know my answer! :)

"The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare." 
-Juma Ikangaa, 1989 NYC Marathon winner

Feeling encouraged!

So the other day I had mentioned I was going to go for an outside run. Well I "mapped my run" and had a game plan. I knew my neighborhood had a few uphills and I got my new high tech running pants, reflective sleeve fleece sweatshirt, and new handy dandy gloves :) AND my iPhone that doesn't skip when I swing my arms... I was ready!! I forgot how quickly it gets dark after work but I didn't let that stop me. No excuses!! I set out and realized the first mile + is pretty flat and even downhill. I immediatly started to think "oh boy it's going to be uphill on my way back when I'm a little tired..." but I kept on trucking. When it was time for me to turn back I kept saying my mantra to myself (don't. Even. Think. About. Quitting.) I never realized how big the uphills are on all the side roads near my house! (I pretended to be on heartbreak hill, even though it doesn't even compare!) But I made it to the top and decided to keep going a little extra. I felt good and I wasn't ready to stop. But then I realized I don't know the streets in the opposite direction at all and since I am scared of the dark I decided it was time to head back. (yes this almost 30 year old is afraid of the dark, i don't want to talk about it). When I got back I checked my watch and realized I ran 41 minutes! :))) and like I said I definately could've kept going! I went back to map my run with the extra I did and it ended up being 4.39! Not the fastest ever, but I will take it! As Miss Garrett would say: "you take the good, you take the bad, you take them both and there you have the..." Perils of training for a marathon!!! He he he...

"You should run your first marathon for the right reasons, because you'll never be the same person again. You must want to do it, not do it because your boss did it or your spouse did it."
Bill wenmark

Things that make you go "hmmm" #1

Glad my detereating body can provide amusement to the children-three. No school days, I will do almost anything to keep them entertained. So today I went to pick something up and boy #1 says, "wait miss Lynne do that thing with your knees!!" So I bend at the knees and am met with the dramatics of boy1 which calls attention to boy2 who comes runnining in saying "no fair I want to hear." Boy2, being the scientist he is asks what is making my knees make that sound... Sadly boy2, i think its just overuse.... I can only imagine the miles ive put on my legs. 4 years of high school soccer, softball,3 of basketball, and 1 of indoor track. Not to mention my middle school years, and gymnastics and college and the running ive done since college... Yikes... That's like trying to calculate all the alcohol you have ever drank in college, gives me the shivers... Isn't that crazy to think about? I need to get a pedometer to see what a typical week is like for me!! Since I don't sit at a desk all day I do move around a lot with Girl either chasing her around pretending to be Simba, or going on our daily bike rides....
~things that make you go "hmmm". 
A little quote that made me feel better about Mondays run:
"There will be days you don't think you can run a marathon. There will be a lifetime of knowing you have."~unknown

November already?!

November already?!
Well after a great run on Sunday I followed up with a not so great run last night... Ugh! I was supposed to run 37 minutes but after 33 I was all set. I tried to keep going but I could feel my form going out the window so I stopped after 33 minutes as I hung my sweat covered head in shame. I can't do this if I expect to run a whole marathon!! I'll have 4 more HOURS to go!! Cripes. But I'm sure this will be one of many disappointing runs before May, so I need to move on and focus on my next run on Wednesday. I'm thinking of getting outside for that run if most of the random snow storms mess is cleaned up. I've been mapping runs in my mind whenever I drive around my neighborhood, assessing which streets have sidewalks and lights. Which streets are downhill and uphill so I can work in a mix of both... 
So I have been trying to think of some songs to download, since I'm going to be needing many more hours of music for running 4 hours. And yes I am one of those people who listen to my headphones at races. I don't care. It helps me keep my mind off my breathing and I stay relaxed. I drown out the sounds around me and make games with myself to try to get to a certain distance before the song is done. WARNING: here is an embarrassing confession: if I am alone on the road running I will often times pump up some Britney Spears or Lady Gaga and pretend I am on stage "dancing" and needing to be able to sing at the same time. He he he. Those girls are frolicking around stage and singing at the same time (except Britney that is) and they need to be able to breathe to sing so that's what I pretend I am doing! Hahaha. Hey, whatever works right?! To each their own. :) 

Snow-tober. Catchy right? :)

Well waking up to a foot of snow in October wasnt what I was expecting to do this morning! But I got my snow gear on and shoveled the driveway with ge husband. Immediately I felt the burn in my arms and shoulders from boot camp! Hank the wonder dog LoVED the snow as well!! He is just like a little kid in it! and probably ate half of the snow in the back yard.

After we got our power back and I called and checked what time the gym closes I headed down for my Sunday run. I haven't been to the gym on a Sunday in well over a year!! But, I knew I had to break the streak, since I'll be spending many Sunday's there in the upcoming months. It was actually a really great workout! I decided to run a little further since I hadnt run since Wednesday and only had 2 boot camp classes. I ran at 6.5 for 40 minutes instead of my 32 for the week. I ended up getting 4.18 miles so I was pleased with that. And I actually  felt like I could keep going. BUT according to the holy Grail you do not want to over train. "that's a big no no too daffy" (remember that commercial about fire saftey?!) hahah. I also walked for about 20 minutes as well so I could read a Runner's World magazine. 
So this a total change of subject, but has anyone used Shakeology from BeachBody? I have done the Insanity workouts and they always say how amazing the shakes are. I follow a BeachBody coach on Facebook and she is always posting videos about the shakes. I guess they have 20grams of pure protein and a bunch of other healthy for you stuff. It is a little pricey but the coach says it breaks down to $4 a day for a month, not bad at all if you look at it that way right? Ohhh! And then I saw a picture a guy posted on the BeachBody website that showed his calorie burn from a workout on a watch gadget!! I want one of those bad boys!!! Gotta do some research for all of this healthy for you way of life I guess... Does anyone in the running world have any advise?? I'm all ears :) 
"Running has an uncanny ability to mellow the soul, to take the edge off hard feelings, and put things back into a healthy perspective." ~ Karnazes

The snow is coming! The snow is coming!

Welllll, I'll start by stating the obvious: its friggen snowing in october!!! A dang foot!

Anyway.. Today was bootcamp day, what's better than waking up on a Saturday to go get my ass kicked by Paul? Well sleeping in would be, but thats not helping my running game. It is almost 12 hours since class and my shoulders are still on fire!! It is such a great workout and I love how each Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday are all completely different workouts that work every microfiber in my body. There hasn't been one class that has repeated the same workout. Love it! Tomorrow will be a running day if I can make it out of my street since the 2nd tree branch just fell as we speak...
Since I talked about new runnig gear I braved the storm this afternoon and purchased some new Nike dry fit thermal running pants and some running gloves... Almost got new sneakers but still have a hard time being ok with spending $125 on a pair of sneakers, maybe next time. And thanks to my high tech friends I learned how to prevent the shuffling of songs!! You go into settings, iPod, and shut off the shuffle option. Dur. And thanks.
But since the lights are flickering I am going to cut this short and save some battery. Hopefully I'll be able to enlighten you all on my run tomorrow! :)

If your going to BE the part, you have to LOOK the part, right?

Well I googled the whole knee question from yesterday... I found out that doctors say NO impact sports after a replacement... So I guess I will just have to wait until I can no longer function with the knees I have before getting one... That made me really sad! I know I am not anywhere near getting my knees replaced, but I can only assume I will have to one day. I can only guess that I will continue to remain active throughout my life, and if I wont be able to do the things I love (running) then getting older is going to be even more difficult for me! Lets not focus on that quite yet though! I have to figure out if I am going to start dying my hair or just keep plucking those grey suckers out! :)

Since we got some snow last night, I realized I need to vamp up my running gear collection! My typical gym apparel of tank tops and capris probably wont help out so much while sloshing through snow and sleet... So I guess there is only one thing to do: SHOPPING SPREE!! :) he he he. First: new shoes, a must! I have always worn Asics sneakers for running. I just really like how they fit, however, I have never spent more than $60 on sneakers. But I am thinking I may have to upgrade to help relieve some of the stress on the ole joints. And I am thinking Famous Footwear may not be the store of choice anymore, I think I'm going to have to call in the big dawgs at PR Running for their advise. Maybe they will hook me up to the treadmill to see how I run and then I can have one of those fancy handouts that talks about my gait and stride and all that fun stuff. Isnt there a 50 Cent music video of that? hahah.
 New running pants: of course! (must have a pocket for my inhaler, since running with an inhaler necklace isnt really that cool anymore :) ) And throw in a running jacket while we are it!
How about those belt things that will hold my water? Sure!
Since it will be cold when training starts, and I wont be able to run on the treadmill every day, I will most definatly need some high tech running gloves and hat! And a reflective vest!
Oh and how can I forget a watch? One of those crazy technical ones that even after reading about them online, I still dont think I will be able to ever figure it out. Well, at least I can try to LOOK the part ;). I do have a dilema though. My iPhone skips to a new song every time I run with it in my hand... So at the gym I just put it on the shelf thing. But do they sell an arm band for the iPhone? And if they do, will the swinging motion still cause it to skip songs non stop? 
The next time you are in the Worcester/Shrewsbury area, take a look at the sweet swag I have going on! Just dont mind the horrid expression of pain/disgust/defeat on my face as I am limping up the street behind you! :) In my mind I will be saying, "Dont. Even. Think. About. Quitting!!"

Raining on a Thursday? Shocker

Sign #4246 that I'm getting old: while helping Boy#1 with his soccer kleits, I knelt down next to him, and in his most disgusted voice says "miss Lynne was that your knees!?" (If any of you know Boy#1 he has a thing for the dramatics)so I replied with "yup, happens everytime I bend down buddy". When dad chimes in and says "that's not supposed to happen until you are a lot older miss Lynne". Thanks. I'm aware of this... How many marathon runners have artificial knees? I may have to google this fact.

So while reading my handy dandy marathon book I came to realize the diet the boot camp people tell me to do is WAY different than what the holy Grail of running says... Boot camp let's you have carbs next to never (needless to say I suck at this diet) and marathon book says you need carbs (obviously)... Just another reason why running for this race will be way better! But I'm guessing by carbs they don't mean French fries and potato chips, dang it! Lol. But in all honesty I know I'm going to have to strt eating to fuel my body... For all of those who know me, know I'm not a huge fan of "diets". So I am going to keep in mind it will only help me run easier... Anything to keep me going right?

Magic 8 Ball...

Last night was boot camp. I don't run on those nights yet. I started boot camp in the beginning of the month and have grown to really love it!! However come January, I know I'll only be able to go 1, or max 2, times a week. It is such a great overall workout, AND it's not before the sun comes up! They offer classes at night. (check them out- peakfitness) I'm not a fan of lifting (thank you uncc) but the way they mix in circuits and intervals and light weights and sometimes no weights, is just right for me :). And each morning after, I am reminded of the workout by how my body says "thanks" in a VERY slow moving type of way :).  (also another reminder of just how not so young my body is slowly becoming, grrr!  "I remember when I was a young whipper-snapper" at Charlotte and would lift, practice, and condition all in one day! That was after I walked UPHILL to the fields and back! hahaha) But I honestly think that this bootcamp nonsense that Jessica talked me into will only help with my endurance once the training picks up :) So thanks for suckering me into it Jessica! :)

I hope these painful run on sentences, poor grammar, wrong punctuation marks, and overall babbling will shed some light into this crazy thing I call my life... Do I have the most fascinating job in the world? No. (I'm a nanny!!) Do I have the most glamourous house in the world? No. (Have you seen the horsehair plaster?!) But what I do have is an incredibly competitive side that is competing with the doubts I have... I'm not too worried, I know I can do this. I just have to be patient and shut off the negative thoughts I am conjuring up about running 26 miles and 385 yards...
Will my knees be able to make it past a 13 mile run, not just once, but 8 times BEFORE the big day!?!? Will my asthma hinder any of this?! Will I have the discipline to get out and run an obscene amount of miles week after week!? We shall see. The magic 8 ball says "all signs point to yes" :) And I'm counting on that black sphere to be correct!
Until tomorrow...  :)

Grey hair #5

Well last night I started my "training". Since I have 7 months until the actual race, I am going to focus more on just runnig for longer time periods regardless of distance or pace. My goal until January is to just run. Each week I will add 5 more minutes to my runs. This week I am starting at 32 minutes with 5ish minutes of walking after. I ran on the treadmill and ended up getting 3.52 miles done... Not the furthest I've run in that time but I only ran at 6.3 as opposed to my usual 6.9... I am trying to focus on just going without stopping. I actually felt really good, I focused on my form with my shoulders back and my left foot not turning too much. It's crazy how much easier running is when you put your shoulders back!! On Saturday my boot camp instructor made me realize how much I actually slouch over, gotta work on that!! I am glad I have until january to really focus on form and getting back to the love of running.

And then!! Hahaha I woke up this morning and found more evidence of getting older!! As I was brushing my teeth I spotted it! Gray hair number 5!!!! I have already pulled 4 others out! And now number 5!? What is going on here!! I still have 8 months in my 20's, am I really going to end up being all grey before I'm 40!?!? If this is any indication of what my 30's are going to be like, I am in trouble for the dreaded 40! Is it really time for hair dye and face lifts!? Am I going to look like a real houswife of Beverly hills before I even think about giving birth!? This isn't good... But than again, is all this stressing of turning thirty giving me these grey's?! Man oh man... Deep breaths, nobody will notice the white string mixed into my almost black hair will they!? :)

Coming to terms...

Well here is my first ever blog... The reason for this is to keep me on track while training for my first ever full marathon before turning the big 3-0... That's right I will no longer be a "20something year old". This has me freaking out more and more... The past year and a half has brought on a LOT of changes for me. First I got engaged, bought a house, bought a dog, quit my job, and got married... Am I having a quarter century life crisis and the only reasonable thing is to run 26 miles and 385 yards?? I dont really know. But what I do know is that this is one thing I can do for myself without worrying about answering to anyone else for the past year plus. This will be the one journey I can take ALONE. The one thing I can accomplish by myself... Selfish? Maybe. But I dont care. I am going to be going into my 3rd decade on this earth and if running a crazy amount of miles will keep me sane between mortgage payments, family gatherings, dodging the increasingly annoying "when are you having a baby?" question, and making sure the dog has food, then I'll take it!
I bought "the ultimate guide to training for a marathon" book today... It definately has me super excited to start this process... Am I an elite runner? No way. I have run 3 half marathons over the past 4 years, all with ok times. I am not looking to break records in Providence in May, rather attain my personal goals. For the past few years I have grown to really enjoy running, so hasnt my waistline. However, with the stress of planning my wedding this year I stopped running... I've been married for almost 3 months now and realized last night that I'm upset with myself for giving up something that meant a lot to me prior. So at 12:30AM I scrolled the coolrunning.com website and decided May would be perfect timing before my birthday to get this goal accomplished.
I hope everyone who reads this can take something away with it, whether it's humor or empathy about the whole process. I will try to keep everyone up to date each day on my progress! Here is to coming to terms with the dreaded third decade...