tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81765343859720121092024-03-13T07:52:36.226-07:00My Journey to the MiddleAt 60 lbs above my ideal weight, and with depression constantly looming over my head, I knew that I needed a change. Just by simply signing up to run a half marathon, I have altered my life in so many amazing ways.Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.comBlogger93125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-90721090995378300672013-01-23T12:30:00.005-08:002013-01-23T12:30:47.921-08:00In Case You've Missed Me...Long time no see! I just wanted to let all of my awesome followers on THIS blog know that since my last entry I've kind of refocused my attention. I've started another blog: <a href="http://beginagain23.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-first-entry.html" target="_blank">New Blog!</a><br />
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I'm sure there will be plenty new running stories in the future, but I'm trying something new. I hope you will follow me there! :)<br />
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Thanks!Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-24029407045939191542012-06-12T21:16:00.002-07:002012-06-12T21:18:19.697-07:00Staying on Track While Vacationing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Remember last Thursday when I was all, "I'm not going to eat ranch dressing tomorrow"? Friday I went to lunch at a salad bar. There was a plethora of ranch. There has been a plethora of ranch since. I haven't exactly resisted. You win some, you lose some, right?<br />
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Let's see. I'm nearly half way through my<a href="http://www.journeytothemiddle.blogspot.com/2012/05/challenge.html" target="_blank"> Challenge</a> and I've only lost 5 or 6 pounds of the 20 pounds I've gained over the last year. This is the bad news. The GOOD news is yesterday I achieved a huge goal. On a treadmill, I ran a 5k in 30 minutes. Not 38, or 36, or 34..... I paced myself at a 10 minute mile for 3.1 miles. I started running over 2 years ago, and yesterday was the first time I have ever done this. I was actually running about a 9.5 minute mile for a good bit of the time! I know it seems like a snail's pace to some of you who are more "seasoned" runners, but for a chunk-a-munk like me - I just won the overweight Olympics. Woo!<br />
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I'm keeping my food situation under control for the most part. I did relapse a few times over the weekend on wonderful things like thin crust pizza, and pot-luck food at a party - BUT I try to burn whatever I eat in my workouts, and I've stayed away from most junk food.<br />
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I no longer hate this challenge that I have made for myself. I am starting to see gradual changes in my body and my energy levels are ridiculous. The only parts of the challenge I haven't been 100% consistent with are the blogging ( Sometimes I'm too busy exercising, or cooking healthy food, or laying on the floor in my own puddle of sweat while small children jump on me), and I've missed 2 or 3 calorie logging days. To me, I think I'd say I'm still going strong! No one said I had to be great.. just good enough, right?! That's always been my motto, anyway.<br />
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My family and I are going out of town this weekend. There will be no blogging, and yes, there will probably be even <i>more</i> ranch dressing and enjoyable food. However, there will also be a treadmill near the cabin and a big, beautiful beach to run on. I think I'll be okay.<br />
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Any tips on staying on track while vacationing? Not eating wonderful vacation-food isn't an option.</div>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-87960746686468769082012-06-07T22:17:00.001-07:002012-06-07T22:21:59.248-07:00Thoughts From a Hungry Girl<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So here is something I've discovered over the course of my challenge: I'm obsessed with skinniness. Honestly, it's taking over my life. This can't be good, right? It's so much more fun to exercise and eat right when the goal is to become healthy - not to fit into a size 6. This whole situation isn't fun. I'm hungry and my legs hurt.<br />
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I went for a 3 mile run the other night, which was nice. There really is nothing like the feeling of endorphins shooting into your brain. Also, there really is nothing like running by a store window and catching the reflection of a wooly mammoth. Windows <i>do</i> motivate me to train a little bit harder, and to smile more. The Lord knows I like to look like I'm enjoying myself to the passer-byes. <br />
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Tonight I did yoga. Man, I really suck at yoga. I guess that's why they call it a "practice", no?<br />
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Tomorrow night is Friday night. Naturally, I don't have any plans. I'd like to challenge myself at the gym and see how many calories I can burn in one night. Who knows? Maybe I can make myself pass out or throw up or something! That sounds a lot more like my Friday nights circa 2002. I was skinny back then, just sayin'.<br />
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I'm not going to eat any ranch dressing tomorrow. That crap is really messing with my calorie situation. <br />
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There, now you all know what I'm doing. What exactly are YOU doing? Are you craving cheesecake as much as I am? Anyone?<br />
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<br /></div>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-45927606480495244462012-06-04T21:33:00.001-07:002012-06-04T21:33:29.701-07:00Trying to Get Skinny Sucks<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Well crap. Sorry I missed a couple of days blogging. I know I promised I would write every day of my <a href="http://www.journeytothemiddle.blogspot.com/2012/05/challenge.html" target="_blank">Challenge</a>, but with 3 kids and a job and actually doing all of the OTHER things I promised to do, sometimes I don't wanna.<br />
<br />Since I can only take one day off from the exercise per week, I suppose I have to go until next Sunday before I get a break. I accidentally took Saturday and Sunday off from working out this week. There is a valid reason, though. Friday night my girlfriends all got together for a few cocktails. I can't pass that up, right?! I accidentally had a few too many of said cocktails, thus leaving my body extremely dehydrated and useless on Saturday. Sunday was a no-go because my husband went fishing ALL DAY, and the gym's daycare isn't open on Sunday. You see? Semi valid excuses.<br />
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My weight isn't flying off as quickly as it has in the past. This is either because my metabolism is slowing down in my elderly age, or I'm not doing the dieting right. I have stayed right around my calorie goal every day, and I'm making healthy choices. Really, I think my body just secretly likes being fat so it's fighting me.<br />
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I will win. </div>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-83408661242627181802012-05-31T22:47:00.002-07:002012-05-31T22:47:32.480-07:00Working Out At Night<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Well, the day got away from me and I ended up going to the gym at 8pm. Funny thing about it was, I had so much energy! I worked out for 50 minutes... and I don't mean light working out. I was sweating like an ape with mad cow disease. I'm starving but I am just going to go to bed, and pray that the scale gives me good news in the morning.<br />
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On a side note, I ran on the treadmill just the one mile tonight again. It looks like I can officially run a 10 minute mile. I know to most people that seems like a really long mile, but to slow, chubby people like myself, I'm Speedy Freaking Gonzalez. <br />
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Boom.</div>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-12448431488621518432012-05-30T21:05:00.001-07:002012-05-30T21:05:17.316-07:00Expresso Bike<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
How in the name of the Lord baby Jesus have I never experienced the <a href="http://www.expresso.com/products_services/upright_bike.html" target="_blank">Expresso bike</a> before now?! While wondering around the gym today, and trying to think of something to do other than run, I came across a video game/exercise equipment situation. I watched the big screen in front of me while I rode my virtual bike through beautiful cartoon fields, while smoking my animated competition. I nearly forgot I was working out for most of my time with the Expresso bike, except when I was going uphill, and when I was playing with the controls on the "bike" and realized I was increasing the resistance a ton while I was riding. That was scary, but fantastic all at the same time. Something the running community might want to look into for cross-training, no?<br />
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After my brief 20 minute jaunt on the pretend bicycle (to be honest, the seat was starting to hurt the lady parts), I couldn't help myself...and I got on the treadmill. I'm either addicted to running (obviously not addicted enough, judging by the size my butt), or subconsciously too afraid to expand my cardiovascular horizons. I only ran a mile, but it was a solid 10 minute mile and I felt awesome enough.<br />
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I ate pretty well today. I made a "healthy" baked ziti for dinner tonight. It was the bomb.com, to say the least. I haven't entered my calories into the online log yet, so in all actuality... dinner might not have been healthy at all. I used low fat cheese.....<a href="http://ronzonismarttaste.newworldpasta.com/pasta_story.cfm" target="_blank">Smart Noodles</a>.....I tried anyway.<br />
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I've lost a single pound so far. Just the one. </div>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-9029997415626244552012-05-29T21:40:00.001-07:002012-05-29T21:40:27.051-07:00How to be a Sexy Beast<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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For lunch I had a foot long sub sandwich today. It was oven roasted chicken, on "whole wheat"..but I'm estimating it was around 600 calories. That was the biggest downfall of the day. I didn't pack a lunch for work and ya know, big girls get hungry often. The only other options for lunch today were sushi or Taco Bell. The foot long won. Remember, no judging.<br />
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On Sunday, to remember<a href="http://www.journeytothemiddle.blogspot.com/2011/06/lise-and-faith-memorial-run.html" target="_blank"> Lise and Faith Palmer</a> I went for a run. I only made it 2.5 miles, but I have been super sore ever since (pathetic, I know). Today I was feeling extremely inspired and, at the gym, I showed that treadmill who the boss was! There were a few hiccups (like the fire alarm and building evacuation that occurred at mile one), but I got right back on the machine and kept going. After 3 miles of <i>really</i> pushing myself, I realized that it was time to stop. My groin felt like it was detaching from the rest of my body. Too much too soon, especially with my newly-fat body.<br />
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I did everything I was supposed to do for <a href="http://www.journeytothemiddle.blogspot.com/2012/05/challenge.html" target="_blank"><b>The Challenge</b></a> today, and I didn't even have a calorie overage.<br />
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I guess I still have to do something about my jiggly arms before bed. Ugh. Why do we have to have so many body parts?!<br />
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I already miss Cheeze-Its. 32 days to go. </div>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-8839870085950663102012-05-28T23:43:00.000-07:002012-05-29T00:10:21.667-07:00The Challenge<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Oh don't read the title of this blog with that look on your face. Don't judge me. I told you all from the beginning that I tend to get ideas, then I get lazy and change my mind, or get too busy, or lose self worth, or drive by a Taco Bell, and give up on said ideas. You have done it too, right? Besides, my first objective with this blog was to train for and finish a half marathon and live to tell about it. I've done that! Twice. And I've even directed a few races since. I'm accomplished now. The only problem is, I'm an accomplished, out of shape, fatty. Again. Oh yeah, with little self worth.<br />
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I have a few questions that I don't think anyone but God himself can give me answers to. Questions like, why does my body like being fat so much? Why are my body and my mind constantly in a battle over burritos and Real Housewives of New Jersey verses a chicken breast and a 5 mile run? Why can't I just be one of those "naturally skinny" girls (who I'm sure all have terrible personalities anyway)? Why am I always tired? Why do I avoid blogging like I do standing on a scale? Where did I set my glass of pinot grigio?<br />
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Oh man. I could go on for days.<br />
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What it all comes down to is, since I had my son two and a half years ago I have lost over 50 pounds. Actually I was close to a 60 pound loss at one time! I was feeling amazing, wearing between a size 6 and an 8, had calves to die for. I took a few months off from my perfect diet and exercise routine (okay, by a few months, I mean eleven of them) and here I am. My stomach jiggles when I run. As do my thighs and my double chin. I bet my freakin' ear lobes jiggle when I run. Blegh. It's gross and I'm unhappy. Clearly, this makes me grouchy and the opposite of perky and inspiring.<br />
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On July 1st I'm turning 28. Guess what happens a month after that? My ten year high school reunion, and ya know what folks? I'm not a supermodel, or a doctor, nor did I invent Post-it notes. I had better walk in there looking damn good if my claim to fame is my hot dog/cornbread casserole. Time for a change. Time for something drastic. Again.<br />
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I've created a new goal for myself. Since I refused to pay the <u>outrageous</u> entry fees for the Seattle Rock and Roll Marathon this year (my tradition has been to run it the last two years), I needed to give myself something else to strive for. I wanted to make a plan for myself that will better me on the outside, and on the inside. I need to get in touch with who I am and learn to actually be proud of myself, the way I used to be.<br />
I am calling this.... wait for it......<b>The Challenge</b>.<br />
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Catchy, no?<br />
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For the next 33 days, I am going to:<br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li> Exercise for at least thirty minutes a day, 6 days a week. Three of those days should be a run (just to stay relevant and such), and I've gotta do those arm weights. My arms jiggle a lot too.</li>
<li>I am going to log my food into my handy,dandy calorie counter online. That thing is amazing and somehow makes me feel guilty for eating an entire bag of miniature Butterfingers!</li>
<li> I am going to attend church each Sunday without fail. No excuses. The man above seems to help me stay focused..so I figured I would throw this in to be doubly sure I don't sleep in on Sunday mornings. </li>
<li>I am going to blog. Every night. Whether you like it or not.</li>
</ul>
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Boom.<br />
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Well, that's all I have for now. Feel free to join me in this little adventure. I mean, even if your birthday isn't July 1st, it <i>is</i> a few days before the fourth of July, and who wants to look bloated under fireworks?! Not me and certainly not you!<br />
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Please leave me any suggestions you have for me on fun workouts, healthy food that doesn't taste like crap, or your thoughts on <b>The Challenge</b>.<br />
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*que Eye of the Tiger </div>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-70060894971778276182012-03-12T12:24:00.000-07:002012-03-12T12:24:53.644-07:002012 Running SeasonWell, allow me to welcome myself back to the wonderful world of blogging. I've left you guys hanging. I'm sure you are all on the edge of your seats wondering what has happened to me, right? No? Oh. Well I'll fill you in anyhoo. <br />
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The running. Gracious. I started running in 2010 and have found that in the fall and winter, somehow my brain and my body decide to boycott moving around more than necessary. I mean, I haven't been dormant or anything. I still do a little treadmill running about once a week. Not anymore than 3.5 miles at a time though. I don't feel bad about it. I have 3 kids and a husband who, if we are being honest, is a little bit like a kid. But alas, it is March and time to get out there and beat some pavement. I'll kick it off (like always) with Tacoma's annual St.Paddy's day 5k run. If I'm being honest, I'm not expecting to break any world records on speed here. If I can bust it out with an average mile at around 10 minutes, I'll be pleased with myself. As of late, I don't have any life threatening illnesses (like the last two years around this time) so it should be doable and a fabulous time. I'll keep you guys posted on the events that ensue, naturally.<br />
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I promise to be a better blogger. I need some new and interesting topics. Any ideas? Is there anything running related that you would like me to investigate (and by investigate, I mean read a little bit about and form my humble opinion on)? I suppose it's the time of year to focus less on Angry Birds, and more on sweating. <br />
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Here's to the return of my mammoth calf muscles!Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-64745297733138596132011-08-28T22:55:00.000-07:002011-08-28T22:55:27.226-07:00How Running Has Changed My LifeLong time no blog! I have been M.I.A. for months. I can't even begin to describe how busy the last few months have been for me, but also life changing and unbelievably rewarding. I'll get to all of that later. First I'll catch you all up from where I left off.<br />
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My second go at the Rock and Roll Seattle Half Marathon was a success! I also beat last years time by about 15 minutes. I think this years' 40 pound weight loss improved my time a ton, and also not needing to stand in line for the porta potty for 10 minutes like I did in 2010 helped a bit too. The race was very well organized and a ton of fun - just like the year before. I am pretty sure I'm a R&R Seattle "lifer". <br />
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So some of you probably read my <a href="http://journeytothemiddle.blogspot.com/2011/06/lise-and-faith-memorial-run.html">last blog</a>, in which I explained that I wanted to do something to help a local family who experienced a terrible loss. I hoped to gather two or three hundred runners on a trail, give 'em all a bottle of water, and ask for donations. Holy smokes did things change. I was contacted (via my good ol' blog) by an Oregon-based company called <a href="http://www.uberthons.com">Uberthons</a>. They wanted to help me grow the race. They provided timing equipment, a website, and a ton of know how. After about 60 sleepless nights, a billion tears, and a over a hundred local volunteers, we produced an amazing event. We ended up hosting a race with over 1700 runners, a wonderfully touching kids' race, and a day most of those people will never forget. I feel like we honored Lise and Faith Palmer's life in a big and amazing way. I'm sure the race didn't wipe any pain away from Lise's friends and family who will probably have a hole forever in their hearts, but for one day, thousands of people gathered to do something Lise herself would have been very proud of. Believe what you want, but as for me, I know Lise and Faith were looking down from heaven with smiles on their faces. The Palmers and Macadangdangs seemed to enjoy the day, and in preparation for the race, I had the opportunity to meet honest to goodness great people. The race was such a blessing to me in so many ways, and I wouldn't trade a minute of the planning for anything in the world. It's now going to be an annual event held at Heritage Park in Puyallup, Washington in late August. If you haven't run that course, believe me when I tell you it's completely worth the drive from wherever you are.<br />
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When I started writing this blog in January of 2010, I was something of a lost soul. I was two months post birth of my third baby and battling some seriously low self esteem and depression. My marriage was struggling. I couldn't fathom the idea of just sitting at home, cleaning and cooking for the next twenty years, while having nothing special just for myself. When I typed the title of the blog, and decided to document my personal journey out of my personal wreckage, I was nervous. I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to run three miles, let alone 13. I was afraid I would give up on myself and my new found dream of becoming a runner. It was so hard to even imagine feeling a sense of pride in myself, a sense of accomplishment. After a year and a half, I'm a new person. I did it.<br />
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Apparently, through organizing the Lise and Faith Memorial Run, I have found my calling. Not only does race directing keep me active, but it enables me to help inspire other people to lace up their running shoes and hit the pavement.<br />
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Oprah Winfrey once said, "Running is the greatest metaphor for life. You get out of it what you put into it." <br />
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I couldn't agree more.<br />
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I'm now working with Uberthons on a series of running events in the Seattle area, and possibly later, all over the country. They are taking a chance on me. Now on a whole new level, I have to prove to myself that I am capable of doing <i>anything</i> I set my mind to.<br />
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My husband and children are content and happy, and learning a love for running and activity for themselves. I wake up every morning with a big smile on my face ready to conquer each and every day. I look forward to growing old with my wonderful husband, raising our amazing children, and improving myself as a person. Things are never perfect in life, but with a little bit of faith, I am positive that anyone can do anything they set their mind to. Maybe it all sounds cliche, but I urge you to push yourself in whatever way that inspires you. You never know, it just may change your life.<br />
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Thanks to all of you for always being there.Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-89395285054896372662011-06-14T16:53:00.000-07:002011-06-14T17:35:02.153-07:00Lise and Faith Memorial RunOn May 27th, 2011 one family's life would be turned upside down forever. While jogging on her vacation in Lake Chelan, 8 months pregnant Lise Palmer was struck and killed my a man who fell asleep at the wheel. She leaves behind her two sons (ages 4 and 2) and her loving husband. She was an incredible woman, who loved running and fitness of any kind. Her passing is an extraordinary loss to her family and community. <br />
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We can't bring Lise back, or heal the wounds of her family, but we can do <i>something</i>. Along with the gentlemen of <a href="http://www.uberthons.com/">Uberthons</a> I am organizing a local 1k, 5k, and 10k walk/run in Lise and unborn baby Faith's honor. The money raised from the race will go to their family, and allow Lise's husband the much needed time away from work to focus on putting the pieces of his family's life back together. <br />
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The race is already generating sponsors and help and should actually turn out to be a beautiful and fun celebration, and will also raise awareness for drivers and pedestrians alike.<br />
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The race will take place on either July 30th, 2011 or August 20th, 2011, depending on what works best for the family. The race will also include a brand new and amazing timing chip system. More final details will be posted soon.<br />
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I am asking you now, to please register, donate, or volunteer for this race. If you have any questions, please don't hesistate to email me directly. Below I am including a link to the website that you can register on, and also to the race's facebook page.<br />
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Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart, for taking the time to read Lise's story, help her family, and celebrate two lives lost far too soon.<br />
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TO <a href="http://scrapbookingink.plushscrapbook.info/register/tacoma-wa/july-30-2011-run-for-lise"><b>REGISTER</b></a><br />
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TO SPREAD THE WORD AND "LIKE" <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lise-and-Faith-Memorial-Run/130433140369888"><b>THE FB PAGE</b></a><br />
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KristinaMoats@hotmail.comKristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-28235820828459261122011-06-06T21:46:00.000-07:002011-06-06T21:46:26.281-07:00How to Organize a Race ... and Other TopicsWell howdy, folks. I'm still running... once or twice a week. Don't you worry about me. Even though I'm missing a lot of conditioning runs lately, I don't seem to be struggling very much with my Sunday long runs so I'm feeling fairly confident that I will actually finish the Rock and Roll Half Marathon in a few weeks. Have you ever noticed how much harder it is to get outside and run in the summer time, when there are so many books to sit in the sun and read, and so much beer to drink instead? It's becoming a problem for me. <br />
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There really aren't many fantastic stories of the running genre for me to share with you all, so I think I'll ask a question!<br />
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The family of a very close friend of mine experienced a ridiculous tragedy last week and I've been thinking of ways to help. I'd like to organize an informal 5k to raise money for them. No shirts, no medals, just good people gathering to support people in more emotional pain than most of us will ever experience in our lives. I was thinking about doing it on a trail (maybe Orting) and asking all of the runners to donate.<br />
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Here is where this situation gets tricky. I have no idea how to organize something like this. Do any of you have any advice as far as steps I would need to follow, the best and safest way to collect the money, or perhaps know someone that would be willing to donate to the race?<br />
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Am I asking too many questions?<br />
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Anyway, if any of you can help me out, it would honestly mean the world to me. My email address is KristinaMoats@hotmail.com. <br />
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Thanks! See ya on the sidewalks!Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-22162196863095430642011-05-11T15:07:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:40:58.583-07:00Short Races are Fun too!Hey everyone! Believe it or not this blog is not to tell you that I have been failing in my training, or even slacking off. I have kept to my half-marathon training schedule and should be rocking and rolling in Seattle on June 25th! It's very exciting, but for some reason it seemed a little bit less tedious to train last year. Maybe because running was so new to me and now I'm some kind of one-half-marathon veteran? Perhaps as Dr.Phil would say, "This aint my first Rodeo". Either way, I'm sure I'll get that exciting running bug soon.<br />
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I have been following a strict diet and doing a ton of strength and cross-training and have lost 22 pounds since February. This has cut my miles down to about 10 minutes or so. If you know me - the former slowest runner in history - you would be amazed. It's like my body wont LET me run really slowly anymore. I ran 6 miles the other day in a just a little over an hour. Go me!<br />
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On another note, I think we should all reflect on how fun short races are! 5ks, 10ks, etc. They are a great opportunity to build your speed, improve your time, make new friends, and hang yet another race shirt in your closet. Might I suggest a fantastic race in my area? <br />
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<a href="http://cityblast.org/index.html">City Blast 5k/10k</a> is a race put on by Puyallup Foursquare Church on July 4th, 2011. Can you think of a better day to take on an easy-breezy and fun race than on the Fourth of July? I know! Me neither! There are a ton of cool activities after the race, not to mention it gives you a reason to check out beautiful little Puyallup (for something other than that thing that clogs up traffic for two weeks in September). The proceeds benefit the Strong Kids Campaign of the YMCA. Don't want to run but love to hear about other folks running? Well, help to sponsor the gathering! I will be running in the race and I hope I will see you there!<br />
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I promise to get better about updating the blog.... and you folks get better about letting me know what is going on on YOUR race schedule!Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-76416522542223847182011-04-11T21:26:00.000-07:002011-04-11T21:26:46.884-07:00Sometimes Life Really Does Get in the Way of Running....Gracious. I am a bad, bad blogger. You see, I have all these small people constantly running around me asking for things and screaming. Then, there is this <i>bigger</i> person who wants meals cooked when he comes home from work and even asks me to keep our house sanitary. These crazy people have been keeping me from the beautiful, blog-reading community. I apologize and will have a talk with them (especially that little one who is always asking for milk) very soon.<br />
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So as you all know I registered to run the Rock and Roll Seattle Marathon in June. Not the half - the full. I have now decided to run the half - not the full. Why? I wont lie to you guys... my right leg fell off. I'm not sure what happened.. probably all of those 20 mile training runs. Anyway, my left leg is still perfectly intact so I can bust out the half-marathon on June 25th, don't worry.<br />
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Ok, that wasn't nice. I mean no disrespect to anyone with only one leg. I'm sure there are quite a few people that have finished a full marathon with one leg - yet both of my legs are still alive and kicking, and I'm just not ready. <br />
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I simply don't have the time for the long training runs. I <i>really</i> don't. I have been beating myself up about it so much and I really think for my own sanity, and for the sake of my family needing clean underwear and food in the refrigerator, I am raising my white flag. Maybe next year, eh?<br />
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On another (less pitiful) note, I am doing that <a href="http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x.do?tnt=P90X_RT_B2">P90x</a> I have heard so much about. I have said before, I know I could run so much faster if I weren't a miniature cow and if I had stronger muscles in my core. I'll tell you something, blog-reader, it's working. In three weeks I have lost 11 lbs and cut a full minute off of my usual mile. The other day I ran 4 miles in about 40 minutes. That is wild for me. I used to be proud of a 12 minute mile. So I'm going to keep going with that and the half-marathon training schedule and keep everyone posted. <br />
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What are you all up to? What races do you have coming up? Do you think because I decided not to run the full marathon in June I am a loser and a quitter?Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-59119959197860263992011-03-23T17:24:00.000-07:002011-03-23T17:24:09.604-07:00The Latest on my Training and SuchWell hello there. Sorry it has taken me so long to update but I was really sick for a while and some other issues have come into play. I think I complained to you all earlier about my super tight calf muscle. I thought it was okay after I rested for over a week with the ol' bronchitis, but it's back. This is no good.<br />
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Let me back-track a bit. The last time I wrote I think I was asking for advice regarding whether or not I should have gone ahead and run the St.Patty's Day Run in Tacoma. Although every piece of advice I recieved was discouraging me from going ahead with the race, the rebel in me made me do it anyway. It actually turned out okay. I didn't get any more sick than I already was, and beat last year's time by over a minute. I <i>did</i> however stay sick for about a week or so after the race so I don't think running improved my health at all. So that was that.<br />
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I have tried to go running 4 or 5 times since then and every time I have another stinking issue that makes me dread the running. Usually it's my calves tightening up (and yes I stretch a ton) or my body is just super exhausted. I am probably still a little bit sick, but I also lost a lot of conditioning. UGH. We are what, 15 weeks from the Rock and Roll Marathon? My epic, first, life-changing marathon?<br />
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On to other things... for cross-training and to improve my strength, I have been doing that <a href="http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x.do">P90X</a> every morning, and following it's nutrition plan. This is more my husband's idea because he wants to get "ripped" but I figure it's good bonding time and will help me shed some unwanted pounds, hopefully improving my running performance. It's really hard and making me really grouchy, but it isn't always easy to be a sexy beast, ya know? Yeah.. I don't either.<br />
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So I figure I'm gonna try to follow my training schedule this week and really <b>force </b>myself to get the miles in. This will include a 10 mile run on Sunday. If I can't get caught up by next week, I may have to change my registration to the half-marathon. And I will be sad.Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-72710680166174583402011-03-11T12:49:00.000-08:002011-03-11T12:49:26.759-08:00Running with BronchitisYeah. Bronchitis now. I haven't been updating my blog because I have been sick with a severe case of acute bronchitis. I went to the doctor on Tuesday night where I was told to do nothing but rest. Naturally I asked her if I was compliant with this so-called "resting", if I might be able to run in my 5k that is scheduled for this coming Saturday. I took her exaggerated laughter as a no. Oh, and the fact that she said "honey, if you tried you would get worse.. and you probably wouldn't make it to the finish line." <br />
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Anyhoo, I've done this "resting". I haven't run all week. I'm still coughing and can't breath as well as I would like to...and the race is tomorrow. The rebel in me wants to prove that darned doctor wrong, but what if she is right and I do get worse and miss out on even <i>more</i> marathon training? I'm considering walking the measley 3 miles. <br />
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Ya know, I'm just a sucker for a finish line. What do you all think?Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-91545910366613527242011-03-02T21:47:00.000-08:002011-03-02T21:47:55.275-08:00Leg Injuries Get In the WayI'm an eternal optimist. It's what I do. I see the glass as half full, I see a steep hill as an opportunity to run down instead of up, and I refuse to believe whatever is wrong with my left calf muscle is something serious. Due to my lack of medical insurance, I guess we will never know. I <i>do</i> know that my last three or four runs were really painful. My last run on Monday, a six-miler, has done quite a number.<br />
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So what is wrong? My calves have been cramping up and swelling pretty bad as soon as the ASICS hit the pavement, but it usually goes away after the first mile or two. Now my left one is sort of stuck swollen and it feels like someone is inside my leg with a tiny drill going up and down the length of my calf, if that makes sense. I walk like an 80 year old woman recovering from a shark attack... or arthritis or something.<br />
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I took Tuesday and Wednesday off and it's getting a little bit better. A very little bit. So what do you guy think I should do? Power through it? Take a week off? Permanently sew an ice bag to my leg? Quit running and pursue my even bigger dreams of becoming the world's fattest woman?<br />
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I'm scheduled for a seven mile run this coming Sunday. I am also scheduled for a 5k race the following Sunday. I'm no quitter. <br />
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So basically I'm asking, what the crap am I gonna do? Are there any sports medicine doctors out there reading this that think I'm just precious enough to see/fix me for free? Anyone know of a good starter plan for someone looking to be sedentary and gain like 500 lbs? <br />
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Thanks.Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-78569553235338271602011-02-22T17:53:00.000-08:002011-02-22T17:54:16.258-08:00My Full Marathon Training ScheduleJust in case any of you folks were interested in joining in the on the fun, or even if you wanted to keep track of all of <i>my</i> running that you can be laughing at, I took the liberty of posting my training schedule. We are in week 1 currently. Thanks, <a href="http://www.halhigdon.com/marathon/Mar00novice.htm">Hal Higdon</a>!<br />
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Week Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun<br />
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1 rest 3 m run 3 m run 3 m run rest 6 cross<br />
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2 rest 3 m run 3 m run 3 m run rest 7 cross<br />
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3 rest 3 m run 4 m run 3 m run rest 5 cross<br />
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4 rest 3 m run 4 m run 3 m run rest 9 cross<br />
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5 rest 3 m run 5 m run 3 m run rest 10 cross<br />
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6 rest 3 m run 5 m run 3 m run rest 7 cross<br />
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7 rest 3 m run 6 m run 3 m run rest 12 cross<br />
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8 rest 3 m run 6 m run 3 m run rest 13 cross<br />
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9 rest 3 m run 7 m run 4 m run rest 10 cross<br />
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10 rest 3 m run 7 m run 4 m run rest 15 cross<br />
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11 rest 4 m run 8 m run 4 m run rest 16 cross<br />
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12 rest 4 m run 8 m run 5 m run rest 12 cross<br />
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13 rest 4 m run 9 m run 5 m run rest 18 cross<br />
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14 rest 5 m run 9 m run 5 m run rest 14 cross<br />
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15 rest 5 m run 10 m run5 m run rest 20 cross<br />
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16 rest 5 m run 8 m run 4 m run rest 12 cross<br />
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17 rest 4 m run 6 m run 3 m run rest 8 cross<br />
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18 rest 3 m run 4 m run 2 m run rest rest race<br />
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I realize this might be kind of hard to read or follow. That makes it all the more fun! :)Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-33243480166823315572011-02-21T14:50:00.000-08:002011-02-21T14:50:43.728-08:00The Beginning of Marathon TrainingOh Dear Lord. 26.2 miles. Twenty-six point two. Miles. <br />
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I can do this, right? Well it is officially 18 weeks until my big day. Technically my Hal Higdon training schedule doesn't require me to do any running until Tuesday this week, but I thought I might get a jump on things yesterday. Can we say disaster? I ran two miles. Just the two. I bought new running shoes and it was my first time breaking them in, so I blame ASICS for my poor performance mostly. They should make pre-worn-in shoes. I also blame cottage cheese and Triscuit crackers for my 15 pound weight gain that seems to be slowing me down quite a bit. Furthermore, I blame polution, the city of Puyallup (for hilly sidewalks), and oh.. just for the heck of it, I blame you. The fact that I was huffing and puffing after running half of a mile couldn't <i>possibly</i> be due to the fact that I've been running about once a week (on average) for the last two months. <br />
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Anyhoo, I'll take my terrible run yesterday with a grain of salt and hit 'er hard again this evening. I mean, I have to be (at least) able to hit the 5k mark without feeling like I need a stretcher, right? Maybe it was just a bad day.Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-74305878869321071522011-01-23T14:29:00.000-08:002011-01-23T14:29:40.868-08:00Training Myself to Cross-TrainWell, I will start off by saying I have gained roughly twelve pounds back since last June when I hit my peak of 55 pounds lost. No big deal. I am only a few short weeks away from the beginning of my full-marathon training so I'm sure it will come back off. In preparation for the training, and to skim off a few extra pounds before it starts, I have been trying to find a good cross-training exercise I can stick too, or at least enjoy doing a few times a week. <br />
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I think I should remind you that I am a very busy mother of three little kids, and also a stay-at-home maid/teacher/cook/referee/girl scout troop leader/love machine...or mom. Getting to the gym is about as realistic for me as auditioning for America's Next Top Model. Therefore, I turn to a little thing I like to call Exercise TV on On Demand. I'm sure most of you are familiar. It has just about every workout you could ever hope for at just a click of a button. I have been experimenting with all kinds of fun stuff, and making myself look extremely sophisticated while doing it.<br />
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Cardioke. Oh yes, it is just as fun and ridiculous as it sounds. It is hosted by Billy Blanks'(the creator of Tae Bo and renowned neon spandex enthusiast)son. You dance around and move your body in a somewhat suggestive-hip-thrusting manor, and you are instructed to sing the lyrics to the songs playing as they appear on the screen. I was having a blast and belting out "Let's get it started" by the Black Eyed Peas. But then I began to feel a little bit uncomfortable at the end of the video, when Mr.Blank's wife performed a ballad she wrote for the fans. My medium-intensity bliss was pulled to a screeching halt when it turned into a sappy, overly-emotional musical. Emo + Cross-training = not for this lady.<br />
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On to belly dancing. And belly dancing it was. This video was instructed by a woman whose "belly" was rock-solid and when she gave instruction to push my belly out as far as I could, she said it like it would really be a difficult thing to do. She kept telling me to embrace my "curves" and to look down and admire my own gorgeous body. I have given birth to <i>three</i> children and have fluctuated between the same 70 lbs for eight years. My gorgeous curves resemble something out of a horror movie, and my beautiful belly looks like a road map. She kept telling me to act and feel sexy, but I couldn't help laughing hysterically at all of my body parts that were shaking when they weren't supposed to. I appreciate what this broad was trying to do, but I think to keep any shred of the self-esteem I have left inside, I should find another core-toning work out, no?<br />
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So alas, I am left with yoga. I have been doing this off and on for about a year, and it really helps with my flexibility and balance. I am still on a hunt to find another fun workout I can do in addition to yoga. <br />
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Any suggestions?Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-80094047718068467112010-12-28T22:37:00.000-08:002010-12-28T22:37:53.982-08:00Marathon Maniacs and Half FanaticsDo you like feeling like you are part of a group?<br />
Enjoy flaunting your athletic abilities as much as possible?<br />
Do you like to wear singlets that announce your addiction to running races?<br />
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If you answered yes to the questions above, I have come across the perfect solution for you! If you can run 2 full marathons (26.2 miles people!) within a 16 day time frame (and can prove it) then you have earned yourself a bronze level membership in the exclusive Marathon Maniacs club. You can also earn a titanium membership if you simply finish 52 marathons within 365 days. That doesn't sound too hard does it?<br />
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Of course, if you are like me, and can't even imagine racing 1,362.4 miles in a one year time span, but still want to rock a singlet that screams "I'm the bomb" you have other options.<br />
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I've become pretty intrigued with the Half Fanatic's running club. It's a lot like the Marathon Maniacs, but you might not die trying to become an elite member. One way to earn a bronze level membership is to run three half-marathons in a 90 day time frame. And naturally, you can earn top ranks in the club if you complete 52 half-marathons in a 365 day time frame. <br />
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The best part about these clubs, is that race time is not an issue. All that matters is that you finish the race. That sounds like my kind of gig.<br />
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With both the Maniacs and the Fanatics, after you achieve the criteria, and pay a reasonable membership fee, you will receive your exclusive singlet and be running in style. You can also meet other runners like yourself, earn awards, and log into their website. <br />
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If you want more information about becoming a Marathon Maniac or a Half Fanatic (and who wouldn't?) visit their websites:<br />
http://www.marathonmaniacs.com or http://www.halffanatics.com<br />
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Don't be surprised to see me with my kids at a local grocery store in a shiny, new Half Fanatics singlet in the fairly near future. I think I have set yet, another goal for myself.Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-35954436350979221902010-12-18T23:01:00.000-08:002010-12-18T23:01:00.385-08:00Running in the RainI have decided I actually really like running in the rain, which works out nicely in the Northwest. It's a great way to cool down, and the air feels so fresh and clean. Of course, you have to treat a rainy run a little bit differently than a dry one. I'm learning more and more on each run. There really is no reason for you to not enjoy your wet, Seattle runs.. you just have to follow a few easy steps!<br />
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1. Wear a hat. It's pretty important to be able to see while you are running. In fact, I'd almost say it's crucial. Grab a visor or one of those fancy hats with all of the little holes on the top, so your head doesn't overheat.<br />
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2. Bring a hanky. I can't be the only one who gets a runny nose everytime I run in junky weather. Frankly, when it's windy outside, the oh-so-fun snot rocket can have an ugly outcome.<br />
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3. Wear a jacket. Now, by "jacket" I don't mean your wool pea coat, nor am I implying you should wear your big, yellow rain slicker. Get yourself a nice, light, waterproof coat. The idea behind the jacket phenomenon is to keep your upper half less wet, and it might even protect your Ipod.<br />
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4. Stay as far away from the traffic on the roads as possible. I learned this first-hand the other night. A hard-working truck driver thought it might brighten his day to drive through a huge puddle.. and splash the poor, unsuspecting runner on the side of the road. That runner still had over two miles until she reached home, and nearly froze to death. <br />
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5. Wear your bright colors and reflective gear. Obviously it's hard for drivers to see us in the dark, but in the dark <i>and </i> rain, it's nearly impossible. This is another one I had to learn by trial and error. My friend, Lisa and I were on a run and were crossing (in a lit-up cross walk, mind you) and were almost slammed into by a pizza delivery driver. Luckily, I panicked and pushed Lisa a little bit (to give myself some more speed obviously) and her pink water bottle went flying into the air, allowing the punk to see us and promptly hit his brakes. Sorry about that, Lisa.<br />
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I'm sure I will learn more about running in the rain, and I'm sure you all have some wonderful tips to share. So share! Share away! Happy wet running!Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-8808210689153016772010-11-27T00:11:00.000-08:002010-11-27T00:11:36.673-08:00Confessions of a Burned Out Runner..Ugh. Such a sad title for this blog. I think that all of the momentum after crossing my first half-marathon finish line caught up with me. I tried. I really tried to get out there and take advantage of the endurance I built up leading to the Rock and Roll Seattle back in (gasp!)June, but I really couldn't find the hunger inside for the longest time. I planned to run the Seattle half-marathon this coming Sunday, but to be perfectly honest, I didn't train nearly enough and decided it would be a bad idea.<br />
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Over the last few months I just kept making excuses not to run. It was hot, it was cold, it was wet outside, I really needed to bake cupcakes with my kids... all night, my favorite show was on, my knee hurt, my elbows were dry, etc. Well then naturally, the guilt started kicking in and thoughts were running through my head that sounded a lot like " You suck. You've reached an amazing goal, found something you love and you are ruining it all!". So then I would ease my internal pain with a brownie or four.<br />
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What happened people?!<br />
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Well anyway, what's done is done. I haven't run further than 5 miles since June. I was secretly starting to think in the back of my head that I would never want to get out there and train for another race. Laziness and negative thoughts were clouding my formerly oh-so-ambitious mind. That is, until I started reading facebook posts and instant messages from friends that are preparing to run the Seattle Marathon this weekend. Now my mind is filled with jealousy and envy. <br />
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Here's what I'm doing (and I'm sticking to it); I'm running 26.2 miles on June 25th, 2011. You heard me. I'm going to attempt to push myself beyond any limits I have ever set for myself and I'm running the full marathon at the Rock and Roll Seattle 2011. But seriously. I am.<br />
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This means I have to start building up my endurance now. I'm going to get myself back up to a point in which I can run 6 miles non-stop (the length of my first long run). I'm going with the <a href="http://www.halhigdon.com/marathon/Mar00novice.htm">Hal Higdon</a> novice program because frankly, ol' Hal got me through the 13.1 and for that, I like the guy.<br />
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The good Lord knows I will need a lot of support and advice (and most likely a shrink) to get through this training, so stick with me! It's going to be a wild ride! <br />
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...And I'm really going to do it.Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-15401092621446830402010-09-27T13:20:00.000-07:002010-09-27T13:20:33.567-07:00Running for More Than Great Looking Calf MusclesOne of the greatest things about being part of races, is knowing that not only is training and racing fun, but most races support a cause. There are also groups like <a href="http://www.teamintraining.org/">Team in Training</a> where you can train with a fun group of folks at no cost, and raise a certain dollar amount to go towards The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Groups like this are a great option.<br />
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I wanted to join a fund raising/training group earlier in the year when I was training for my half-marathon, but thought as a stay-at-home mom, I don't get a lot of exposure to anyone with income exceding say...$5.00 a week for allowance. I figured it might be kind of hard for me to raise a set dollar amount. Then my friend, Alissa showed me something.<br />
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Alissa Tucci's grandmother had a major stroke on September 21st, 2009. Life has never been the same for her entire family and she wanted to do something to help more families dealing with the effects of stroke and help fund it's research. Like me, Alissa is a stay-at-home mom and on a pretty tight budget. She decided on her own, in her grandmother's honor, to set up a website for people to donate to the American Stroke Association. She has set a personal goal of $1,000 and is trying to reach it before she runs her first ever half-marathon in Seattle this November. <br />
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For me, I think it's great to know there are options for people trying to raise money for their own personal causes, and set their own monetary goals. It's just something to think about for the next time you want to cross a finish line. <br />
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If you want to donate to Alissa's fundraiser just click here:<br />
<a href="http://honor.americanheart.org/site/TR?px=2180059&fr_id=1190&pg=personal">American Stroke Association</a>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8176534385972012109.post-16401711731626161962010-09-24T17:46:00.000-07:002010-09-24T17:46:39.333-07:00My Fifteen Minutes of FameSo if you are cruising by your local newsstand and pass by a Fitness Magazine with a picture of a hot brunette on the cover in a bikini, that's me! Okay... I'm lying... but if you <i>open up</i> the magazine and turn to page 18 I am featured in the "I did it" column! It's funny because I still won't feel like <i>I've done it</i>, until I cross the finish line after 26.2 miles, but apparently to some people 13.1 miles are just as exciting! Here is a picture of the little article and I've attached my original interview with the folks over there at Fitness! :) <br />
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<a href="http://s676.photobucket.com/albums/vv126/Mrsmoats23/?action=view¤t=yayFitness.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i676.photobucket.com/albums/vv126/Mrsmoats23/yayFitness.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br />
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<b>What inspired you to start your journey towards a healthier lifestyle?</b><br />
<i>Well, firstly, I was tired. Tired of being fat, tired of being depressed, and tired of being tired. At 25 years old, I literally had given up on myself because I was so focused on my family and thought I didn't matter anymore. About the time I set up an appointment with my doctor to get back on anti-depressants, I came across a picture of an old high school friend. She just had her second son, and looked happier and healthier than she did when we were 16. Her facebook photos were full of pictures of her crossing finish lines and holding medals. That got the wheels turning.<br />
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<b>How many kids have you had? Did you previously bounce back quickly after having your children?</b><br />
<i>I have had 3 kids, ages 6,3 and 8 months old. I don't even know what "bounce back" means. There was no bouncing back. With my first daughter I went from a lean 135 lbs to over 200lbs. With Tae Bo and calorie counting, over a year I lost most of it.. only to gain it back, lose some, gain it back, lose some.. etc. After my second daughter, I had terrible post partum depression and I think I only lost 20 lbs of that weight before getting pregnant again with my son a few years later. With him I tipped the scales at close to 230 lbs. I'm only 5'6. I started what I call "the change" two months after having him.<br />
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<b>Had you tried to run long distances in the past?</b><br />
<i>Never. I honestly don't think I had ever run further than 6 consecutive blocks in a row before I started training. I remember the first time I ran a full mile without stopping. I could barely walk afterwards, but my sense of pride was immeasurable. Even in high school, I ate Taco bell and only did the required aerobics class to some how keep my figure. </i><br />
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<b>What effects did your running and weight loss have on other parts of your life? (Such as on your family members)</b><br />
<i>Well, as someone who has suffered from depression, self doubt, and some less than supportive family members, at first it was mostly negative feedback. My husband was a little bit upset that I was changing the family's evening routine and he would have to prepare some dinners (on my long runs) or bathe the kids. One family member actually told me I was "too big" to run and it wasn't safe or healthy. I just kept my head up and kept trucking. Everyone started warming up to the idea as the pounds started rapidly dropping, and as the mileage was adding up. After I crossed the finish at my half marathon, I saw nothing but smiles and pride from my family. The best part was the look on my children's faces to see me cross, and my husband asking when the next race was, because he would also like to start training. <br />
</i><br />
<b>What was the most difficult part about the experience for you?</b><br />
<i>Overcoming my own demons. I would be on mile 3 of an 8 mile run and my inner dialogue would sound a lot like " you really are too fat for this. You can't really run 8 miles, you look awful while you are doing this". I really had to teach myself that I am, in fact, awesome. I had to learn that there is no reason why other people can acheive their goals and I can't. The hardest part of changing my life, was changing my attitude towards myself and start believing that I too, can do something awesome.</i><br />
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<b>How do you/did you stay on track with your running program and weight loss lifestyle when it was getting difficult or temptations arose? </b><br />
<i>Blogging helped a lot. A few times a week, I would get online and update my imaginary readers on my progress. I would just tell myself that there has to be some woman out there in my same situation wondering if they can do something great for themselves. How could I let that woman down? Also, deep inside, I knew I had to prove people wrong about me. I had to prove that a fat girl, with three babies and a husband to take care of, can still have a life. Shoot, I had to prove that to myself. <br />
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<b>Have you had a support system along the way? If so, who? </b><br />
<i>I know it's cliche, but I have the most amazing friends on the planet. Since the day I declared I would run a half marathon (and eventually a marathon) they have stood by me, asked about my progress, and believed in me. It took a little convincing, but as soon as my husband realized this was the real deal, he was the greatest support system. If I decided to bag out on a run one day, he would say " Do you want to finish that race? Get your butt up and go running" and I would. It was helpful on my long runs to know when I walked in the door, my husband would ask how many miles, and I could look at him and say, "10" and watch his face light up. <br />
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<b>Do you have any plans for the future launching off your successes?</b><br />
<i>Well now that I truely understand that I can do ANYHING, the possibilities are endless. I still have about 25 lbs to lose and a Full Marathon goal in the future, but I would also love to coach other people to the finish line. I love to write and would love to find a way to reach out to more women who think their life is over after having kids and forget to live for themselves. I feel like I have had such an amazing, life changing experience and it is my duty to show other women that they can do anything.<br />
</i>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112215822012573166noreply@blogger.com6