Sunday, March 12, 2017
Week in Review - 3/12
Can't complain about this past week at all. My workouts were on point, and we squeezed in a bit of active fun as well.
Sunday, March 5, 2017
Week in Review - 3/05
Happy Sunday! Who doesn't love Sundays?! It's a great time to reflect on the past week and make plans for the next one.
If you stopped by for our coffee date yesterday, you'll know that I've decided to give up on my ultra training. I think I'll write a future post on all the reasons why, but it really boiled down to being too much too quickly. I'm pretty much OK with the decision. 😥
But you'll see that my plan for this past week wasn't at all what I ended up doing. LOL.
If you stopped by for our coffee date yesterday, you'll know that I've decided to give up on my ultra training. I think I'll write a future post on all the reasons why, but it really boiled down to being too much too quickly. I'm pretty much OK with the decision. 😥
But you'll see that my plan for this past week wasn't at all what I ended up doing. LOL.
Saturday, March 4, 2017
Ultimate Coffee Date - March 2017
I missed our coffee date last month, and that made me sad, so I decided I wouldn't miss out again this month!
If we were having coffee today, I'd tell you that I've decided to forego my goal of running a 55k at the beginning of April. I probably wouldn't want to go into too many details about it. It's kinda fresh. But let's just say that other goals are taking a priority and with my knee acting up, I don't want to push it too hard and risk more serious injury.
I'd tell you that I spent some time this morning writing out a workout plan for March. My plan is to really focus on Core and other strength and/or endurance workouts, so that I can get stronger for that possible Grand Canyon hike. I'll only be running 2-3 days a week, with some hiking or biking thrown in. I'm also going to start a 30 Days of Yoga for Beginners playlist on YouTube. I was very specific with exact videos/workouts I want to do, so I won't need to waste any time figuring out what to do each day. It's a pretty solid plan with working out or running in the mornings and yoga in the evenings. I'm hoping that Jeff will do the yoga with me (or at least some stretching while I do the yoga) in the evenings. I don't normally do 2 workouts in one day, but I'm tired of being so lazy in the evenings.
If we were having coffee today, I'd remind you that I'm so excited to be an aunt again. The last time I became an aunt was in 2002! My two youngest brothers each welcomed a baby boy at the end of February. I would definitely show you pictures that my brothers and their fiancées have shared on Facebook.
If we were having coffee today, I'd tell you that I got to have lunch with a former co-worker yesterday! It was so much fun, plus I got to hold her little 6-month old. She's adorable! I'd also tell you that we got to talking and totally spaced snapping any pictures. I hadn't seen her in probably 9 months, so hopefully it won't be quite as long before I see her again.
If we were having coffee today, I'd tell you that I've decided I really like butternut squash. We got some in a recent Bountiful Basket. I peeled it, cubed it, and then roasted it. So delish! I ate it as a side, in a smoothie, and in a salad. I'm blown away by how much I like it. I really don't remember liking it this much. LOL.
Time to get going...
Oh, one last thing! I'd tell you that Jeff and I are heading out for a bike ride this afternoon. We haven't gotten in the saddle for MONTHS! I'm excited to get out there. Plus, it's gorgeous outside right now, and I don't want to stay cooped up inside all day long!!
Have you ever set out with a BHAG - only to re-evaluate and change your goal in the middle?
If we were having coffee, what would you want to tell me?
Be sure to head over to Got 2 Run 4 Me or Confessions of a Mother Runner and catch up with everyone else!
Until next month...
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If we were having coffee today, I'd tell you that I've decided to forego my goal of running a 55k at the beginning of April. I probably wouldn't want to go into too many details about it. It's kinda fresh. But let's just say that other goals are taking a priority and with my knee acting up, I don't want to push it too hard and risk more serious injury.
I'd tell you that I spent some time this morning writing out a workout plan for March. My plan is to really focus on Core and other strength and/or endurance workouts, so that I can get stronger for that possible Grand Canyon hike. I'll only be running 2-3 days a week, with some hiking or biking thrown in. I'm also going to start a 30 Days of Yoga for Beginners playlist on YouTube. I was very specific with exact videos/workouts I want to do, so I won't need to waste any time figuring out what to do each day. It's a pretty solid plan with working out or running in the mornings and yoga in the evenings. I'm hoping that Jeff will do the yoga with me (or at least some stretching while I do the yoga) in the evenings. I don't normally do 2 workouts in one day, but I'm tired of being so lazy in the evenings.
If we were having coffee today, I'd remind you that I'm so excited to be an aunt again. The last time I became an aunt was in 2002! My two youngest brothers each welcomed a baby boy at the end of February. I would definitely show you pictures that my brothers and their fiancées have shared on Facebook.
If we were having coffee today, I'd tell you that I got to have lunch with a former co-worker yesterday! It was so much fun, plus I got to hold her little 6-month old. She's adorable! I'd also tell you that we got to talking and totally spaced snapping any pictures. I hadn't seen her in probably 9 months, so hopefully it won't be quite as long before I see her again.
If we were having coffee today, I'd tell you that I've decided I really like butternut squash. We got some in a recent Bountiful Basket. I peeled it, cubed it, and then roasted it. So delish! I ate it as a side, in a smoothie, and in a salad. I'm blown away by how much I like it. I really don't remember liking it this much. LOL.
Time to get going...
Oh, one last thing! I'd tell you that Jeff and I are heading out for a bike ride this afternoon. We haven't gotten in the saddle for MONTHS! I'm excited to get out there. Plus, it's gorgeous outside right now, and I don't want to stay cooped up inside all day long!!
Have you ever set out with a BHAG - only to re-evaluate and change your goal in the middle?
If we were having coffee, what would you want to tell me?
Be sure to head over to Got 2 Run 4 Me or Confessions of a Mother Runner and catch up with everyone else!
Until next month...
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Thursday, March 2, 2017
February Report Card
Wow! How is it that the shortest month of the year always seems to drag on and on? I'm almost ready to declare it one of my least favorite months of the year. Thankfully, it's now March. Whoo hoo.
Since it was such a short month, apparently I needed a couple extra days before doing my monthly report card and check in on my 2017 Goals. 😉
Since it was such a short month, apparently I needed a couple extra days before doing my monthly report card and check in on my 2017 Goals. 😉
Sunday, February 26, 2017
Week in Review - 2/26
After last Sunday's painful 5-hour run, I decided I needed to step back from training for at least a week to give my knee a little time to settle down. It was so twingy both Sunday afternoon and Monday, that I was afraid it was something worse. I even wore a skirt on Monday, so I could slip on a compression sleeve for a few hours.
I skipped my strength workouts this week, too. Don't freak out! I still got in some good yoga videos, so I still feel really good about the week.
Unrelated, my little brother welcomed a little boy into the world Friday morning. I live so far away, so I won't get to meet the little guy for awhile, but I was so excited to receive a text from him Friday morning letting me know Teddy had arrived and momma was doing well. I have another brother that is expecting to welcome another little guy this coming week. Exciting!! 👶 👶 👶
Edit: My other brother welcomed his baby boy on Saturday night, but I didn't hear anything until Monday morning. So excited for both my brothers. :-)
I skipped my strength workouts this week, too. Don't freak out! I still got in some good yoga videos, so I still feel really good about the week.
Unrelated, my little brother welcomed a little boy into the world Friday morning. I live so far away, so I won't get to meet the little guy for awhile, but I was so excited to receive a text from him Friday morning letting me know Teddy had arrived and momma was doing well. I have another brother that is expecting to welcome another little guy this coming week. Exciting!! 👶 👶 👶
Edit: My other brother welcomed his baby boy on Saturday night, but I didn't hear anything until Monday morning. So excited for both my brothers. :-)
Wednesday, February 22, 2017
Staying Fit in Sin City
I love living in Las Vegas! The lights, the glamour. The overindulgence.
It's a fabulous city, but isn't exactly a place synonymous with healthy. Being a local for several years now, I have learned a few ways to make your visit to the Las Vegas Strip a bit healthier.
Skip the taxis, Ubers, and Lyfts. Instead slip on a pair of comfy shoes and walk, walk, walk. No better way to see the Strip and really experience Las Vegas (a.k.a. people watch) than on your feet. If you're a step counter, you'll quickly see that number skyrocket.
Be forewarned that while some of the casinos seem relatively close together on the map, they are deceivingly far apart. I definitely recommend good walking shoes.
This is one of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas! I live about a mile from the Strip and run it at least every couple months. I love it because it also incorporates a lot of stairs with all the pedestrian bridges, so I feel like I get an even better workout.
If you do this, I recommend going early in the morning. 6AM is the sweet spot, but I wouldn't go much later than 8 or 9, or you'll be dealing with large crowds. It's about 4 miles from the Stratosphere to Mandalay Bay, so you could easily get in any distance up to 8 miles. If you're looking for an even longer run, take it all the way downtown. It's about 6.5 miles from the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign to the Fremont Street Experience.
There are a LOT of pedestrian bridges along the Strip to help the flow of traffic. They make for a nice and convenient workout, too. Here's my favorite stairs workout at the Wynn / Fashion Show Mall. It goes up and down escalators and stairs and crosses a bridge over the Strip.
Again, I'd recommend doing this early in the morning. Not staying in this part of the Strip? I'm sure you could come up with a similar workout using any of the other many pedestrian bridges.
You could do an Indoor Hike at the Aria (after you've clicked to their site, hit the + symbol at the bottom of the fitness section to see all their fitness services). I've never done this but it sounds fun. This is not just a simple walk through the resort. It's a guided tour of the Aria's art collection as well. Your guide also throws in push-ups, squats, and other fun exercises. You will definitely get in a good sweat, according to this review in the Review-Journal. A little spendy for this girl, this indoor hike/tour of the Aria costs about $50, but I believe it also gets you access to the spa.
There are numerous excellent hikes off the Strip as well. The most popular is probably Red Rock National Conservation Area, which is gorgeous and only $7 per vehicle entrance fee. Of course, you'd likely need to rent a car, taxi, Uber, or Lyft, since it's about half an hour from the Strip. There are so many more places to hike as well, but all would require transportation off the Strip.
Most of the resorts have a Spa and/or Fitness Center that offers a variety of fitness classes. You could do Dolphin Yoga ($50) at the Mirage or learn to pole dance at Stripper 101 ($39.99-$149.99) at Planet Hollywood.
We all know that staying fit is more than just exercise. What's the saying? You can't outrun a bad diet.
Well, Vegas has you covered in this respect, too. Many restaurants on the Strip have healthier options. Just peek at the menu before deciding which restaurant to dine at. If you don't see something that meets your needs, move along to one that does.
I don't actually eat out that often, but I did a search for healthy eating in Las Vegas and found these gems.
The Juice Standard, in the Cosmopolitan. If you're into the juice craze, this is THE place to go on the Strip. Maybe even if you're not. 😉 They have juices, nut milks, & smoothies. Cocktails. Salads/wraps, toasts, & other snacks.
Harvest by Roy Ellamar, at the Bellagio. Only open for dinner, this is Farm to Table goodness. Everything sounds so good. Some options, of course, are healthier than others.
Mon Ami Gabi, in Paris. This came up on a few different lists of healthy options. I think mostly due to the variety of seafood.
Bruxie, at The Park. Their menu is filled with lots of decadence, but their killer salads look divine!
Nordstrom's Marketplace Cafe, in the Fashion Show Mall. Lots of delicious options! Plus their menu shows calories for each item, so you know what you're getting into.
Vegenation, Downtown. I threw in one off-the-Strip option, but still tourist-friendly. 😊 This is one I really need to try! They are 100% plant-based and support local farms. Win-win.
Ok. Now, I'm officially HUNGRY!
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While you're in Fabulous Las Vegas, be sure to also check out Vegas.com for great deals on hotels, shows, tours, and more!
Fun fact: In June it will be 5 years since I came to Las Vegas on vacation and never left! That's just crazy to me because it seems like just yesterday. Of course, most people do make it back home after a trip to Sin City. 😉
Have you ever been to Las Vegas?
What's your favorite tip for staying fit while traveling?
I'm linking up with Angela for Sunday Fitness & Food.
It's a fabulous city, but isn't exactly a place synonymous with healthy. Being a local for several years now, I have learned a few ways to make your visit to the Las Vegas Strip a bit healthier.
Walk. Everywhere.
Skip the taxis, Ubers, and Lyfts. Instead slip on a pair of comfy shoes and walk, walk, walk. No better way to see the Strip and really experience Las Vegas (a.k.a. people watch) than on your feet. If you're a step counter, you'll quickly see that number skyrocket.
Be forewarned that while some of the casinos seem relatively close together on the map, they are deceivingly far apart. I definitely recommend good walking shoes.
Run the Strip.
This is one of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas! I live about a mile from the Strip and run it at least every couple months. I love it because it also incorporates a lot of stairs with all the pedestrian bridges, so I feel like I get an even better workout.
If you do this, I recommend going early in the morning. 6AM is the sweet spot, but I wouldn't go much later than 8 or 9, or you'll be dealing with large crowds. It's about 4 miles from the Stratosphere to Mandalay Bay, so you could easily get in any distance up to 8 miles. If you're looking for an even longer run, take it all the way downtown. It's about 6.5 miles from the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign to the Fremont Street Experience.
Make your visit to Las Vegas a bit healthier with these tips from @EnjoytheCourse.
Do a Stairs Workout.
There are a LOT of pedestrian bridges along the Strip to help the flow of traffic. They make for a nice and convenient workout, too. Here's my favorite stairs workout at the Wynn / Fashion Show Mall. It goes up and down escalators and stairs and crosses a bridge over the Strip.
Again, I'd recommend doing this early in the morning. Not staying in this part of the Strip? I'm sure you could come up with a similar workout using any of the other many pedestrian bridges.
Go for a Hike.
You could do an Indoor Hike at the Aria (after you've clicked to their site, hit the + symbol at the bottom of the fitness section to see all their fitness services). I've never done this but it sounds fun. This is not just a simple walk through the resort. It's a guided tour of the Aria's art collection as well. Your guide also throws in push-ups, squats, and other fun exercises. You will definitely get in a good sweat, according to this review in the Review-Journal. A little spendy for this girl, this indoor hike/tour of the Aria costs about $50, but I believe it also gets you access to the spa.
There are numerous excellent hikes off the Strip as well. The most popular is probably Red Rock National Conservation Area, which is gorgeous and only $7 per vehicle entrance fee. Of course, you'd likely need to rent a car, taxi, Uber, or Lyft, since it's about half an hour from the Strip. There are so many more places to hike as well, but all would require transportation off the Strip.
Take a Fitness Class.
Most of the resorts have a Spa and/or Fitness Center that offers a variety of fitness classes. You could do Dolphin Yoga ($50) at the Mirage or learn to pole dance at Stripper 101 ($39.99-$149.99) at Planet Hollywood.
We all know that staying fit is more than just exercise. What's the saying? You can't outrun a bad diet.
Well, Vegas has you covered in this respect, too. Many restaurants on the Strip have healthier options. Just peek at the menu before deciding which restaurant to dine at. If you don't see something that meets your needs, move along to one that does.
YES! You CAN eat healthy while visiting Fabulous Las Vegas! Check out these healthy gems that @EnjoytheCourse found.
I don't actually eat out that often, but I did a search for healthy eating in Las Vegas and found these gems.
The Juice Standard, in the Cosmopolitan. If you're into the juice craze, this is THE place to go on the Strip. Maybe even if you're not. 😉 They have juices, nut milks, & smoothies. Cocktails. Salads/wraps, toasts, & other snacks.
Harvest by Roy Ellamar, at the Bellagio. Only open for dinner, this is Farm to Table goodness. Everything sounds so good. Some options, of course, are healthier than others.
Mon Ami Gabi, in Paris. This came up on a few different lists of healthy options. I think mostly due to the variety of seafood.
Bruxie, at The Park. Their menu is filled with lots of decadence, but their killer salads look divine!
Nordstrom's Marketplace Cafe, in the Fashion Show Mall. Lots of delicious options! Plus their menu shows calories for each item, so you know what you're getting into.
Vegenation, Downtown. I threw in one off-the-Strip option, but still tourist-friendly. 😊 This is one I really need to try! They are 100% plant-based and support local farms. Win-win.
Ok. Now, I'm officially HUNGRY!
Tweet
While you're in Fabulous Las Vegas, be sure to also check out Vegas.com for great deals on hotels, shows, tours, and more!
Fun fact: In June it will be 5 years since I came to Las Vegas on vacation and never left! That's just crazy to me because it seems like just yesterday. Of course, most people do make it back home after a trip to Sin City. 😉
Have you ever been to Las Vegas?
What's your favorite tip for staying fit while traveling?
I'm linking up with Angela for Sunday Fitness & Food.
Sunday, February 19, 2017
Week in Review - 2/19
Ugh. This definitely wasn't one of my best weeks. My body must have needed some rest, cuz that's what it got this week.
Before I get into my review of the week, a huge THANK YOU to everyone who entered my giveaway for a StrideBox.
a Rafflecopter giveaway Please watch for an email from me, so I can get a StrideBox out to you.
Before I get into my review of the week, a huge THANK YOU to everyone who entered my giveaway for a StrideBox.
a Rafflecopter giveaway Please watch for an email from me, so I can get a StrideBox out to you.
Tuesday, February 14, 2017
Running Love: Reasons I Love Run
Happy Valentine's Day... and Tuesday!
Today's topic for Tuesday's on the Run is... (no surprise)... Stuff I love about running.
Obviously, I love so. much. about running.
Here are a few reasons why I love to run.
In no particular order.
Running clothes are super cute and comfy. Next to yoga clothes, I'm not sure anything beats running clothes. At least the stuff I buy. I mean, I get by without wearing a bra or undies - cuz they come built it. 😏
Running makes me happy and feel alive. There's just something about getting that heart pumping and sweat flowing. It brings an energy that just makes me smile. Yes, even when it hurts - though sometimes not exactly in the moment.
Running allows me to have lots of little personal victories. It's such a personal sport where you can challenge yourself to go just a tiny bit further - in time, distance, pace. You name it! It's 100% customizable, and when you've pushed yourself and beaten even the tiniest of goals, you just feel so. damn. good!
Running gets me outside. If it weren't for running, I'd hardly leave my house. I certainly wouldn't explore my neighborhood as much as I do. It's a great excuse to get out there and enjoy the weather. Sun, rain, snow, clouds. I've learned to find beauty and joy in it all.
Running can be done anywhere. I'm not going to lie. I'm sometimes a pretty lazy runner. I love that I can just lace up and run from right out my front door. Or if I'm travelling wish I could do this more often! I can run in the neighborhood of the hotel/resort. Never forget to pack the running shoes!!
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Despite all of the above, sometimes running is hard and we need to remind ourselves of not only why we love it, but how to enjoy it. Be sure to check out my tips to make every run enjoyable for those runs when you're not feeling the love.
Don't forget to visit our TOTR hostesses - Marcia, Patty, and Erika - to read more posts about running love.
Why do you love running?
What makes you wanna lace up those shoes and get out there?
Doing anything fun for Valentine's Day?
Today's topic for Tuesday's on the Run is... (no surprise)... Stuff I love about running.
Obviously, I love so. much. about running.
Here are a few reasons why I love to run.
In no particular order.
Running clothes are super cute and comfy. Next to yoga clothes, I'm not sure anything beats running clothes. At least the stuff I buy. I mean, I get by without wearing a bra or undies - cuz they come built it. 😏
Running makes me happy and feel alive. There's just something about getting that heart pumping and sweat flowing. It brings an energy that just makes me smile. Yes, even when it hurts - though sometimes not exactly in the moment.
Running allows me to have lots of little personal victories. It's such a personal sport where you can challenge yourself to go just a tiny bit further - in time, distance, pace. You name it! It's 100% customizable, and when you've pushed yourself and beaten even the tiniest of goals, you just feel so. damn. good!
Running gets me outside. If it weren't for running, I'd hardly leave my house. I certainly wouldn't explore my neighborhood as much as I do. It's a great excuse to get out there and enjoy the weather. Sun, rain, snow, clouds. I've learned to find beauty and joy in it all.
Running can be done anywhere. I'm not going to lie. I'm sometimes a pretty lazy runner. I love that I can just lace up and run from right out my front door. Or if I'm travelling wish I could do this more often! I can run in the neighborhood of the hotel/resort. Never forget to pack the running shoes!!
Tweet
Despite all of the above, sometimes running is hard and we need to remind ourselves of not only why we love it, but how to enjoy it. Be sure to check out my tips to make every run enjoyable for those runs when you're not feeling the love.
Don't forget to visit our TOTR hostesses - Marcia, Patty, and Erika - to read more posts about running love.
Why do you love running?
What makes you wanna lace up those shoes and get out there?
Doing anything fun for Valentine's Day?
Sunday, February 12, 2017
Week in Review - 2/12 + A Giveaway
My knees are still bothering me a bit, but it didn't stop me from running about 18.5 miles yesterday. More on that below.
I've decided to rethink my ultra training plan. I was planning on running both Saturday and Sunday each weekend, but after my knees started hurting me last weekend, I decided just one long weekend run would probably be better. So, now I'm thinking a long run on Saturdays, an easy recovery run on Mondays, and another run on Thursdays (tempo?).
I've decided to rethink my ultra training plan. I was planning on running both Saturday and Sunday each weekend, but after my knees started hurting me last weekend, I decided just one long weekend run would probably be better. So, now I'm thinking a long run on Saturdays, an easy recovery run on Mondays, and another run on Thursdays (tempo?).
Friday, February 10, 2017
Friday Five 2.0 - Love
I'm taking a sick day today. I haven't been feeling tiptop the last few days, so I figured a day off from work would do me some good.
I haven't been as good at blogging since I started ultra training. I've been pretty tired and sore and focused on training.
But since I'm home from work today and came across this quote, I thought it was perfect for this week's Friday Five 2.0.
With Valentine's Day coming up next week, it's no surprise that this week's topic for Friday Five 2.0 is Love.
1. Take a rest day. That's what I'm doing today. I'm looking forward to doing absolutely nothing today, with a nap or two sprinkled in.
2. Go outside. Soak up some Vitamin D. Take a hike or go for a run. Or simply sit in a park and read a book.
3. Have a spa day. If you can, go to an actual spa. Or, if you're a penny pincher, like me, have a DIY spa day. Soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salt. Take a bubble bath with your favorite music and candlelight. Paint your nails.
4. Make a list of things that make you happy. Reminding yourself of what makes you happy will feel like a big hug and certainly make you feel loved. Back in 2013, I made such a list. It still makes me smile.
5. Laugh. They say laughter is the best medicine, and I tend to agree. Laughter can make you feel all warm and fuzzy.
Plus. Do Yoga! We hold so much emotion in our tight muscles, and releasing it is a great way to give yourself some love. Even if you're not very good at yoga, or don't consider yourself a yogi, take some time to stretch. Or have a date with a foam roller.
Now I'm off to relish in my rest day. And maybe do a couple other things on this list.
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Be sure to stop by Running on Happy and Fairytales and Fitness to see what everyone else is loving on today.
I haven't been as good at blogging since I started ultra training. I've been pretty tired and sore and focused on training.
But since I'm home from work today and came across this quote, I thought it was perfect for this week's Friday Five 2.0.
With Valentine's Day coming up next week, it's no surprise that this week's topic for Friday Five 2.0 is Love.
Five+ Ways to Love Yourself
1. Take a rest day. That's what I'm doing today. I'm looking forward to doing absolutely nothing today, with a nap or two sprinkled in.
2. Go outside. Soak up some Vitamin D. Take a hike or go for a run. Or simply sit in a park and read a book.
3. Have a spa day. If you can, go to an actual spa. Or, if you're a penny pincher, like me, have a DIY spa day. Soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salt. Take a bubble bath with your favorite music and candlelight. Paint your nails.
4. Make a list of things that make you happy. Reminding yourself of what makes you happy will feel like a big hug and certainly make you feel loved. Back in 2013, I made such a list. It still makes me smile.
5. Laugh. They say laughter is the best medicine, and I tend to agree. Laughter can make you feel all warm and fuzzy.
Plus. Do Yoga! We hold so much emotion in our tight muscles, and releasing it is a great way to give yourself some love. Even if you're not very good at yoga, or don't consider yourself a yogi, take some time to stretch. Or have a date with a foam roller.
Now I'm off to relish in my rest day. And maybe do a couple other things on this list.
Tweet
Be sure to stop by Running on Happy and Fairytales and Fitness to see what everyone else is loving on today.
Sunday, February 5, 2017
Week in Review - 2/05
So, my knee started bugging me on today's run. I definitely need to give it some TLC this week, i.e. lots of foam rolling and compression and stretching.
I'm also trying to eat better. I used to never really worry about nutrition, thinking that my exercise was good enough. I know the saying, You can't outrun a bad diet. And I believe it, but I just didn't think my eating was all that bad.
But with ultra training, I decided I needed to think of food as fuel. So, I downloaded the My Fitness Pal app (which I hadn't used since 2009) and was shocked by what I was lacking. I hope to write a post on that later. Maybe this coming week.
I'm also trying to eat better. I used to never really worry about nutrition, thinking that my exercise was good enough. I know the saying, You can't outrun a bad diet. And I believe it, but I just didn't think my eating was all that bad.
But with ultra training, I decided I needed to think of food as fuel. So, I downloaded the My Fitness Pal app (which I hadn't used since 2009) and was shocked by what I was lacking. I hope to write a post on that later. Maybe this coming week.
Tuesday, January 31, 2017
January Report Card
Happy final day of January! This month really flew by! I can't believe we are already a full month into 2017.
Today's topic for Tuesdays on the Run is Give your running month a letter grade. Using that as inspiration, I decided to do a monthly report card to check in on my 2017 Goals.
Today's topic for Tuesdays on the Run is Give your running month a letter grade. Using that as inspiration, I decided to do a monthly report card to check in on my 2017 Goals.
Sunday, January 29, 2017
Week in Review - 1/29
In case you missed my big announcement on Tuesday, I started training for an ultramarathon (55k) this week. It is a little intimidating and scary, but mostly exciting! I'll really be pushing myself, but also really listening to my body.
I mentioned I created my own training plan and wasn't really following anything tried & true. The race is in the beginning of April, so I have about 11 weeks to train (well, 10 more to go now). I'm focusing not just on running, but also on strength and stretching and rest.
I'm starting out with only 3 days of running (Wed, Sat, Sun), two rest days (Mon, Fri), and 2-3 days of strength workouts (Tue, Wed, Fri). I'm sure I'll be adjusting as I go.
I mentioned I created my own training plan and wasn't really following anything tried & true. The race is in the beginning of April, so I have about 11 weeks to train (well, 10 more to go now). I'm focusing not just on running, but also on strength and stretching and rest.
I'm starting out with only 3 days of running (Wed, Sat, Sun), two rest days (Mon, Fri), and 2-3 days of strength workouts (Tue, Wed, Fri). I'm sure I'll be adjusting as I go.
Friday, January 27, 2017
Friday Five 2.0 - StrideBox Review
At the end of December, Sarah reached out to me to see if I'd like to try out a StrideBox. Of course, I said yes, because I'm a sucker for anything free. :-)
I absolutely LOVED this box!
I know there are a lot of subscription boxes out there to choose from, but I think that StrideBox really goes above and beyond.
Friday Five 2.0 is a freebie topic this week, so I'm linking up with Running on Happy and Fairytales and Fitness to share 5 Things I Love About StrideBox.
The box came lined with yellow tissue paper, which I tore when opening the package, so no pic. It's a really small thing, but it made the box seem a little more special.
But what I loved most about the box was it's size, and that it fit in my mailbox. We have issues with packages at our apartment complex. The office often loses packages and never alerts residents that a package arrived. If you don't know something is coming, you can get a bit screwed. Packages coming through the USPS often have better luck - except that some vandals broke into the parcel lockers for larger packages in December and stole all the packages. Booo! All that to say, I was excited that this gem fit right in our regular mailbox.
I absolutely LOVED this box!
I know there are a lot of subscription boxes out there to choose from, but I think that StrideBox really goes above and beyond.
Friday Five 2.0 is a freebie topic this week, so I'm linking up with Running on Happy and Fairytales and Fitness to share 5 Things I Love About StrideBox.
One
Packaging. Isn't the design on this box cute?
The box came lined with yellow tissue paper, which I tore when opening the package, so no pic. It's a really small thing, but it made the box seem a little more special.
But what I loved most about the box was it's size, and that it fit in my mailbox. We have issues with packages at our apartment complex. The office often loses packages and never alerts residents that a package arrived. If you don't know something is coming, you can get a bit screwed. Packages coming through the USPS often have better luck - except that some vandals broke into the parcel lockers for larger packages in December and stole all the packages. Booo! All that to say, I was excited that this gem fit right in our regular mailbox.
Two
All the products. Of course.
There was a nice variety of fuel to try plus one really cool accessory. I haven't actually tried everything yet, but here are a few of the items I have tried.
Power Bar - Protein Snack Bar - PB & Caramel
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Pacific Health - Accel Gel - Key Lime
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| I tried this during a 10 mile trail run. I tend to like gels and this was no exception. The key lime flavor was exactly what you'd expect - a perfect mix of sweet and tart. Bonus that it was pretty easy to open as well. |
Foods Alive - Power Snackers - Lemon Chia Crunch
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| I tried these after a 10 mile trail run. I liked the crunch and the slight lemon flavor, but there was another flavor as well that I didn't care for much. |
StrideBox Essentials Water Resistant Silicone LED Armband
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| I've worn this on several early morning runs! I usually chose the blinky setting. It mostly stayed in place and I usually forgot I had it on. |
I'm looking forward to trying out the rest of the items.
Three
The Stride Guide.
This isn't unique to Stridebox. I'm guessing all subscription boxes come with a guide, but it's still something that I love. I love how it lays out everything in the box and let's you know when to use (before, during, or after a workout) and where to go for more info on the product. The pricing is nice as well.
Four
The back of the Stride Guide.
On the back of their guide is a collage of photos from social media that used #TagYourTrail. I love how they showcase real photos from real people. I found it very inspiring. And made me want to get out and hit my trails!
Five
Make It/Do It Card.
This card was probably my favoritist thing in the StrideBox! One side had a fun recipe to try and the other had a workout. I love that they work with bloggers to provide these cards. More fun stuff from real runners. More inspiration. More to try. More to feel accomplished about.
A StrideBox subscription is only $15 per month and there is no minimum commitment. You can cancel at any time. It's a great way to discover new items and to find some inspiration, too.
Have you tried StrideBox?
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Tuesday, January 24, 2017
What's Your Limit?
Limits.
We all have them, but as runners, we sure do like to push them, don't we? It's what makes us stronger, right?
Please tell me I'm right. :-) Otherwise, what you're about to read isn't just crazy, but crazy stupid.
I have a hard time defining my limits. I tend to have a pretty laissez-faire approach to running and fitness. But that's all about to change. At least for the next couple months.
I mentioned on Sunday that today I'd share with you what was next for me.
{deep breath}
Here goes...
We all have them, but as runners, we sure do like to push them, don't we? It's what makes us stronger, right?
Please tell me I'm right. :-) Otherwise, what you're about to read isn't just crazy, but crazy stupid.
I have a hard time defining my limits. I tend to have a pretty laissez-faire approach to running and fitness. But that's all about to change. At least for the next couple months.
I mentioned on Sunday that today I'd share with you what was next for me.
{deep breath}
Here goes...
Sunday, January 22, 2017
Week in Review - 1/22
You know how they say, all's well that ends well? I had a fabulous Sunday (so far) and it blurs out all the rest of the week. I can't even remember if it was an overall good or bad week, that's how overshadowing today's trail run was.
More on that below....
More on that below....
Friday, January 20, 2017
Friday Five 2.0 - Winter Activities Anyone Will Love
TGIF, my friends! Who is ready for the weekend? I know I am. This week has been crazy at work. Let's just say I was ready for a drink at 8:05 yesterday morning. 😂
But enough about that!
Instead, let's link up with Running on Happy and Fairytales and Fitness for Friday Five 2.0. This week's topic is Winter Activities.
But enough about that!
Instead, let's link up with Running on Happy and Fairytales and Fitness for Friday Five 2.0. This week's topic is Winter Activities.
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Charity Miles: How To Guide
I'm linking up today with Marcia, Patty, and Erika for Tuesday's on the Run. This week's topic is Favorite Winter Gear. Winter's aren't really bad here in Vegas, so my winter gear isn't much more than long-sleeved shirts and running pants.
Instead, since I've received quite a few comments lately about Charity Miles (what it is, how it works, etc.), I thought I'd share a quick tutorial to show just how easy using Charity Miles is.
I've been using Charity Miles (off and on) for quite a few years now - at least back to 2012. The app has changed a bit since then, but the same basic idea behind it hasn't.
It's the perfect way for anyone to give back simply by going for a run, walk, or bike ride. There are a LOT of charities to choose from and the app really is so simple to use! You can earn up to 25¢ for a run or walk and up to 10¢ for a bike ride. All you do is use the app and then Charity Miles makes the actual donation to the various charities.
Seriously simply, but read on for a Step-by-Step guide to walk you through it all.
Instead, since I've received quite a few comments lately about Charity Miles (what it is, how it works, etc.), I thought I'd share a quick tutorial to show just how easy using Charity Miles is.
I've been using Charity Miles (off and on) for quite a few years now - at least back to 2012. The app has changed a bit since then, but the same basic idea behind it hasn't.
Every Mile Matters!
It's the perfect way for anyone to give back simply by going for a run, walk, or bike ride. There are a LOT of charities to choose from and the app really is so simple to use! You can earn up to 25¢ for a run or walk and up to 10¢ for a bike ride. All you do is use the app and then Charity Miles makes the actual donation to the various charities.
Seriously simply, but read on for a Step-by-Step guide to walk you through it all.
Sunday, January 15, 2017
Week in Review - 1/15
Happy Sunday!
Looking back, this week seemed to fly by, but during the week, I was SO tired and SO unmotivated. I still managed to do all my workouts, though. Plus, I threw in a few yoga practices on my rest days. I need to do more yoga; it always feels so good!
Looking back, this week seemed to fly by, but during the week, I was SO tired and SO unmotivated. I still managed to do all my workouts, though. Plus, I threw in a few yoga practices on my rest days. I need to do more yoga; it always feels so good!
Friday, January 13, 2017
Friday Five 2.0 - Dream Waterfall Destinations
I've been so unmotivated to blog this week! I don't if it's the dreary weather or what, but every night I get home and just want to VEG. There were a couple posts I had intended to write, but well, that lack of motivation won.
Let's try to get back on track by linking up with Running on Happy and Fairytales and Fitness for Friday Five 2.0.
The theme this week is:
Let's try to get back on track by linking up with Running on Happy and Fairytales and Fitness for Friday Five 2.0.
The theme this week is:
Dream Vacations or Winter DestinationsThere are so many places I'd love to visit, but here are 5 waterfall destinations I'd love to cross off my list!
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