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Friday, December 2, 2011

Elphie's Antics


The Elf on the Shelf is back again having fun at our house.  The kids are so excited and love hunting him down every day.  What kind of trouble will he get into this year?

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Cleaning Out Your Closets

January 1 - go into your closet and turn all your hangars backwards.  As you wear clothes, wash and put back into your closet, hang the hangars back outwards.  By July you'll know what clothes can be donated to Goodwill by looking at the hangars still hanging backwards.  I do this every year and it makes it much easier to identify what I just never wear.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Parenting Through the Eyes of Your Child


My son (my 2nd child) is one of those kids who would sleep with all the lights on in his room if he could. Currently, he’s got a clock that lights up, a night light, and glow in the dark sheets. And every night, he still asks me to leave the bathroom light on as well. Last night, as he came out to turn it on and then left the door wide open so it pretty much felt like it was noon, I told him that I felt like I was going to get a sunburn because the lights were so darn bright. And he replied, “It might be bright to you, but it’s not to me!”

And that got me thinking. A lot.

I’m familiar with all the sayings that tell you to look at life “through the eyes of the child,” to try to experience it with their joy and blissful innocence, but I think it’s an important note for parents as well. When he asks me to turn the bathroom light on night in and night out, I think about how I was as a kid, how I was scared of the dark, saw monsters in my curtains, and how I too would always ask for the bathroom light on.

But that’s not all. I remember how upset I got when my mom yelled at me for no reason, probably because she (like me) was either tired, or hormonal, or lonely or all of the above. I remember the little things that my parents did, like the impromptu celebrations for absolutely nothing and the cool shoes I had wanted that I found under the Christmas tree one year.

And I try to keep that in my head when I parent. Just enough to not make me feel guilty, but a little prod. A hot poker sometimes, that reminds me of what’s really important when all is said and done. When they grow older, like me, and have kids of their own. What exactly will they remember?

When I think about it that way, the light on (energy saving one, mind you) in the bathroom doesn’t matter. Either does that bill that can be paid after they’re asleep and not when they’re begging me to play with them.

Sometimes it’s the difference between barking at them to clean up the styrofoam peanuts that my sister-in-law insists on packing everything in or letting them romp in them as they screech for joy.

What bogs me down as an adult and parent doesn’t necessarily need to be their burden. And when drop down to my knees and look into their eyes, I’m transported back to when I was their age. And I think that makes me a better, more empathic parent.

- from the blog 4 Kids or More

Monday, November 28, 2011

Workout Recap 11/21-11/27

Monday -  6.2 miles, 58:31, 9:26/avg
Tuesday - Hill workout at the gym 4.5 miles, 50 min.  Was thundering and lightning in the AM so we ditched the run.  I went to the gym instead and set the treadmill for what I thought would be a challenging workout.  In the end I was struggling to finish without using the handles or slowing to a walk.  Killer workout!
Wednesday - Rest
Thursday - Turkey Trot!  5M, 37:30, 7:29/mile average
Friday - Sea World, did at least 3 miles of walking
Saturday - Elliptical 45 minutes, abs/arms 10 min
Sunday - 16 miles, 2:32:20, 9:31/avg

Saturday, November 26, 2011

3 Years Ago


This was taken 11/21/2008.  Jack and Maddy were 12 weeks old, Gwen was 2 years, 5 months old.  What happened to my BABIES?!? 

Birthday love

Yesterday was my 32nd birthday. This is an age that I truthfully forget how old I am sometimes. I find it unimportant. Except for age groups on race results, then it's very important.

We spent the day at Sea World and it was a lot of fun. The park was decked out for the holidays with lights, trees, and constant Christmas music, which I LOVE! It was not nearly as crowded as when we went in July. The kids did great, but we could tell they were worn out by the evening. We finished the day off with Five Guys Burgers and headed home.

Thanks for all the birthday love on Facebook! Thanks to my family for being super awesome!


Friday, November 25, 2011

Turkey Trot 2011

Thanksgiving is a great day for a race, nothing like getting in a good workout to remove guilt from all the eating later in the day.  Jennifer, Christina and I planned to do the Georgetown Turkey Trot, but it was cancelled a couple weeks ago.  We immediately decided to head to the downtown race and do the Thundercloud Turkey Trot.  We had nice weather, sunny and 60.   This year's course started near the Long Center and made a big loop around downtown with a couple killer hills in the first 2 miles.  What was really challenging was the crowds in this race.  Parking took longer than we planned so we started mid-pack with the un-timed runners.  The first 2 miles were a struggle just to keep momentum as we darted around other runners, walkers, strollers and doggies.  I hit a good pace around mile 2 and managed to finish at my goal of 7:32 for 37:38 final time. 

After race we hung out for a few minutes, got water and cookies and went to the parking garage to stretch.  Then we left, or tried to leave at least.  In some insane black hole of time and parking garages we sat in the garage for over an HOUR waiting to get out.  It was the weirdest thing to just ... go no where for an hour with no sign of movement.  Jennifer left at one point to go to the bathroom and when she came back were were maybe  4 feet from when she left. 

Other than the parking fiasco, the Thundercloud Subs Turkey Trot is a well organized race.  Good packet pickup support, nice layout of the course and water stops.  They had plenty of food and water at the end.  Now we know 90 minutes isn't enough time to get downtown for this race, or we should have taken the homeless guy's offer of $5 parking, or just parked at my sister's and walked the extra mile - would have been WAY faster.

Thanks to Jennifer, Christina and Christina for keeping me entertained in the car at least!  And congrats to each of you on a great race!

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Komen Race and Fund Raising Update

So the Komen race and fundraising are over!  $535 raised which will be matched by Dell.  Thank you to my wonderful sponsors:

Kelly Newell
Jackie Cox
Beth and Casey Alonzo
Linnzi Gillo
Monica Ovalle
Jenna Gray
Bill & Diane Gray
Kristen Gray
Jenny Mo
Barbara Meyer

The race was downtown this year and a new course that wound around the Capitol building.  I rode down with the Malek's (thanks for the ride and the banter).  We had plenty of time to park, pee and loiter around the start.  We were scolded by Jennifer for being lazy and not meeting her at the Dell tent (sorry).  We started at the front of the race this year, which was a good decision.  There were 25 turns on the 5k course route and 8000 timed runners.

Mile 1: 7:16
Mile 2: 7:16
Mile 3: 7:21
Last .2: 6:20
Final time on Garmin: 23:09 for 3.2 miles, chip time 23:07

I did not check my results until later that night and saw that I was 4th place out of 116 in my age group!  I was a LITTLE bummed that I didn't push harder to get 3rd place.  DAMN YOU MARATHON TRAINING!

Thanks to Jennifer for being Team Captain.  Thanks to my very generous sponsors.  If you don't know, we run Renee's Rack Pack for our dear friend Renee.  She received some great news last week that the last round of brutal chemo did it's job and her test results were negative for cancer (that's good!).  So we were all very excited and happy for her on race day. 


Renee's Rack Pack

Running Buddies





Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving to All and to all a good night... wait, wrong holiday, but Happy Thanksgiving anyway!

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Workout summary 11/14 - 11/20

Monday - rest from long run and race
Tuesday - 7 miles, 9:16 avg (this was the insane up at 4:30 day)
Wednesday - El Diablo speed work
Thursday - rest
Friday - 4.00, 37:14, 9:18/mile
Saturday - 17 BIG MILES, 2:42:25, 9:33/mile avg
     *we found a new route so that we can run around Lake Pflugerville and this was an awesome end to 17 miles.  Great run!
33.61 miles total

Friday, November 18, 2011

New Year's Resolution

I've noticed something super interesting about dinner at our house.  The kids have gotten us down to eating chicken nuggets, mac'n cheese, peanut butter and jelly, hot dogs, hamburgers, pasta and ... I think that's it.  We do force them to eat veggies and always drink milk with dinner, so I'm still holding on that front.  But the go to list of meals has really dwindled down.  Making dinner exhausts me and having the kids run down to the table to say "EWWWW... I'm not eating that!" is terribly disheartening. 

I resolve to get back to making healthy family meals.  Screw em' if they don't want to eat it right!?!?  Tacos!  Stir-Fry!  Lemon Chicken!  Chili!  Roast Chicken!  Potatoes!  Soup!  YES!  Muwhwahahaha!  As soon as I finish this marathon bullshit I will totally get right on this.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

The Freedom of Starting Over

A few weeks ago I was using the ole' home computer putting new books on my Nook.  I got side tracked and when I returned the computer was no longer functioning as it should.  This happens occasionally, so I did what anyone would do, I turned it off and on.  Sadly this did not help and John has been trying to bring the system back to life ever since.  A few nights ago as he attempted to fix it he asked me what files and documents I wanted saved.  I thought about it and decided NOTHING.  Well, other than the thousands of pictures (that were backed up else where) and our music files.  The only thing I really cared about what the Excel file that I track all my race data in, which I had emailed to myself a month ago so I had a recent copy.  Other than that, bookmarks - start over, half completed projects - start over, passwords to websites I never use - start over. 

It's sort of liberating! 

If this happened on my work computer I would cry real tears for an hour and bitch about it for months.  A good reminder to ALL OF YOU TO BACK UP YOUR COMPUTERS!  Not that I would know what the hell to do to with a back up drive, but I assume a nearby tech nerd would know. 

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Crazy Running/Mommy/Working Day

Like most days, today I fit in a run with mom duties and work responsibilities.  Today was especially tough because I had to be home from my run by 6 am.  It was supposed to be raining, so I pretty much decided to run at the gym after taking the kids to school.  But I woke up at 4:00, 4:10, 4:15 and when John’s alarm when off at 4:30 I just got up and went running.  I’m pretty sure this makes me insane. 

 

After running I got myself ready, and did the second half of the relay in getting the kids prepared for school.  This involves asking everyone to go potty 3-4 times, putting on Jack’s clothes, cleaning up the breakfast dishes, doing Gwen’s hair, tackling Jack to brush his teeth, convincing Maddy to wear the socks I picked out for her vs. going upstairs for another pair, chasing Jack to brush his hair, doing Maddy’s hair and then the ultimate challenge of getting everyone to put their shoes on without being allowed to help put their shoes on.  Oh, and getting the lunches together, making my coffee and eating something before heading off to school.  It’s no wonder I get in the car and have to take a deep breath to relax. 

 

Tuesdays bring the special challenge of both John and I having work related meetings early in the morning (7 and 7:30).  I ended up joining a conference call while taking the twins into school, giving hugs and kisses and half listening to work issues before getting back in the mini-van.  Then I sat in the doctor’s office parking lot on the call, which is right next to school, so I could go in and pick up some paperwork when it opened.  THEN drive into the office to start work – 4 hours after getting out of bed.  After that its work, work, snack work, run an errand at lunch, drink lots of water, eat lunch at my desk, work, snack and finally pick up the kids from school. 

 

This is my life! Crazy Mommy Running Work Life.  Writing all this makes me want to have a glass of wine or crawl into bed for sleepy time.  Of course, I can hear a little voice over the monitor talking to her horses, so I get to do neither one.  I DO get to see a smiling face as I explain about quiet sleepy nighty night time for the 3rd time tonight and tuck her into bed again with another kiss.

Komen Race for the Cure 11/13/11 - preview

Bigger update coming later this week.  Early results: distance 3.20, time 23:09, avg 7:14/mile.  Not a PR, but I held myself back a little to avoid complete depletion - I had just run a 15 miler the day before and have another full week ahead. 

Monday, November 14, 2011

Workout Recap: Nov 7-Nov 13

11/7: 4.00 miles, 38:01, 9:30/mile, with JC
11/8: nothing (Jenna's surgery day)
11/9: nada
11/10: 6.20 miles, 57:13, 9:14/mile, with JC
11/11: rest day
11/12: long run 15.01, 2:19:53, 9:19/mile avg, with JC
11/13: Komen 5k, 3.20miles, 23:09, 7:14/mile

I started off the week feeling the beginings of a cold, nothing terrible just a tickle in my throat.  By Wednesday I was feeling pretty tired and was fighting hard to avoid getting worse.  I skipped a planned "BIG WORKOUT" on the schedule and had an extra rest day that was much needed.

Our 15 mile long run was great.  Perfect 50 degrees with little wind.  We chatted the whole time, as usual.  I'm not sure that Jennifer and I have anything left to talk about but we always manage to pass the time and entertain each other.  Jennifer has a new running toy that I am JEALOUS of, a hydration pack.  Maybe I'll break down and follow her lead on this one.  For this week's long run I ate a bagel thin with peanut butter for breakfast, and took in a pack of Shot Blocks and a Gu.  I felt pretty decent about the calories but I'll have to do more for next week.

Friday, November 11, 2011

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Quote of the Day

"The difference between a jogger and a runner is a race-entry blank." —Dr. George Sheehan

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Get your zzzzzz

More Health and Fitness News & Tips at Greatist.

Monday, November 7, 2011

Workout Log: 10/31-11/6

Monday - 6.00 miles, 58:05, 8:51/mi avg, with Christina.  Started out way to fast cause I got up late (again).  I ended up feeling pretty sore by the end.
Tuesday - Track workout, 8x.25m repeats with Jennifer.  5.75m, 52:16, 9:05/mile total
That night I get it on with the foam roller, super sore
Wednesday - much needed rest day
Thursday - 6.70m, 58:39, 8:45/mi avg. Tempo run in very windy conditions.
Friday - off
Saturday - 14.30 miles, 2:14:29, 9:24/mile avg.  Ran 5 with Christina and Jennifer and I did 14. It was 45 degrees but I ran in shorts, I thought that was a mistake to start but I was comfortable after going numb.
Sunday - rest

Total mileage 32.75

Good news is that my Sunday/Monday runs reminded me that warming up and cooling down is essential for running pain free.  Not warming up definitely made a difference. 
Bad news is that my stupid toe has a stupid blister that is driving me bonkers.  It seems like little feet constantly step on it, my shoes rub it and it's making me walk funny.  Not sure what I can do about it, other than complain.

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Kid Farewells

Found on Pinterest.  I still remember my Dad saying "See You Later Alligator" and I would say "After Awhile Crocodile" as he put me to bed.




Friday, November 4, 2011

Just the Little Things

Check it out: Just the Little Things

I like #461. Listening to Little Kids Talk.  So true in our house and in the car.  Jack and Maddy are like an old couple that love each other eternally but annoy the hell out of each other too.  At 3 years old they carry on a dialog that cracks me up daily.  In the car Maddy will say "No Jack, it's MY turn to talk" and he will stop down and let her finish (sometimes).  Jack makes sure to point out the car wash every time we drive by, so that Maddy can remind me how it scared her "yesterday" (3 weeks ago).  They sing songs and change the words to crack each other up.  Maddy will say she doesn't want to tell me about her day, she'll let Jack do it.


Thursday, November 3, 2011

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

The Ice Contraption

My sister is getting hip surgery next week.  As part of her recovery, they are giving her one of these to use.  A portable electric powered ice wrap.  I snickered for about 10 seconds at the thought of my younger sister having to drag this thing about.  And then I realized that is fricken awesome!  I want one for my own personal use!  ~ Jealous

Motivation

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Race for the Cure

My Race for the Cure Page.  On November 13th I am running the Susan G Komen 5k in Austin.  This is an event I have run 6 times and for the 3rd year I am running for Renee's Rack Pack.  One of my dear friends Renee is going through cancer for the second time.  My grandmother had breast cancer twice and lost her life to it.  My Aunt Susie recently went through treatments.  John's Aunt Beth, two of my mom's close friends... this is something that has touched many lives around me.  This year I put a call out to close friends and family to donate to my race page, and pledged that I would match all donations dollar for dollar.  Our team is a Dell corporate team this year, so they match our entire team's donations dollar for dollar as well. 

I have raised $255 dollars so far!  Holy crap.  I have to admit I did not think so many people would give so generously to support the Rack Pack and my fund raising goal.  But I'm sticking to my word ya'll!   I will be matching the $255 and Dell will match the whole $510. 

Spooky Halloween

School Halloween Party - Maddy loved the PONEY

Work Halloween party had an old school marionette performance.  The kids watched it 4 times

Super Gwen, Jasmine, Rapunzel and Woody

Rapunzel, Super Gwen and Woody pre-trick or treating

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Halloween Fun

It's not even Halloween yet, but we've gone to 4 parties, carved 2 pumpkins, roasted pumpkin seeds, hid the trick-or-treat candy from John, had 2 costume changes, painted 6 pumpkins, drank 3 Pumpkin Spice Lattes, made pumpkin muffins and judged one kick ass decorating and costume contest at work.  Whew!  Now we just have to make it through the big day with no tears and I will be one happy Mommy.  Of course I have no pictures of any of this yet. 

Weekly Workout Report 10/24 - 10/30 and Bonehead of the Week

Monday - Maintenance run: 5.15 miles, 47:32, 9:14/mile avg, w/ JC
Tuesday - Track: WUP; 4x500m @ 7:43/mile + 3:00 recovery; CD.  6.00 miles, 51:54, 8:39/mile avg
Wednesday - 6 week 6 pack, 35 min
Thursday - Tempo: WUP; 30 min marathon pace; CD. 6.01 miles, 54:28, 9:04/mile avg (too fast), w/JC
Friday - 30 minutes arms & abs
Saturday - "rest"
Sunday - Long run: 12:10 miles, 1:49:37, 9:04/mi avg (too fast)

Friday I wore my ole' black boots with the heel and by the end of the day my messed up big toe was killing me.  John mocks my sensitive toes, but it was killing me almost all day Saturday.  By Sunday I could feel it but it wasn't nearly as painful.  Stupid kids dropping shit on my feet!

Sunday was our long run.  Jennifer and I planned to meet at 6am, which means I need to leave at 5:50.  So I set my alarm for 5:15, giving myself enough time to get dressed, eat something, drink water and go to the bathroom.  I groggily woke up about 4:30, and snuggled back in bed glad for another 45 minutes of sleep.  My alarm went off at 5:15 and I dragged myself up.  Clock in the bathroom reads: 6:15.  Clock on my phone reads: 6:15.  Mother effer.  My 15 year old alarm clock though today was the F-ing end of day light savings time, so had "rolled back" the clock for me.  GAH!  I knew Jennifer would have already been at our meeting spot at 6:00, would have gotten to my house at 6:10 and seen it completely dark.  In panic mode I run downstairs, turn on the outside lights - no Jennifer.  I text "COME BACK!!!" hoping she might go home and check her phone.  No luck.  So I grab all my crap in record time and get out the door at 6:24.  We run a pretty standard loop around our neighborhood, but I really had no idea if she would run the regular route or run it backwards, or might come home early.  Turns out she decided to do the full 12 and ran it backwards.  I eventually caught up with her at her half way point, 3 miles in for me.  I was glad to see her, I felt like a dummy for getting up late, but was very glad she decided to do it without me (good girl!)! 

She finished off 12 and I had 3 to go.  I ate a Gu.  My digestive system decides Gu in means I have to go to the bathroom - NOW!  See, I neglected my normal second bathroom trip when I sprinted out the door this morning.  I was fine for the first 10 miles, but there's only so long I can go before I have to 'go'.  It was daylight, there were people out, even if I was brave enough to drop trou' in the open I can't do it in daylight!  This becomes a race to the finish.  The faster I run, the more I have to 'go', but I really don't want to crap my pants.  At 11.5 miles I drop my water bottle and belt on the lawn, unlock the door, knock innocent children out of the way and dart into the bathroom. 

Afterward, I jog around the block to cool down and finish the last .5 I owe to the running gods. 

Two lessons for today.  One, get a new alarm clock that isn't so smart.  Two, the second bathroom break is worth the extra time.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

What to Wear Running?


For newbies, this is a great tool at Runner's World.  Enter in the temperature and how you like to feel when you are running and it tells you what to wear.  It has been 80 degrees every morning now for what feels like years, but the time will soon come when I will debate shorts or pants? Long sleeve or short sleeve?  Hat or no hat? 

What I like and how I rate in importance:
1. Running Shoes - I love my Brooks Adrenaline.  When looking for running shoes, get fitted at a specialty store the first time.  Plan to spend at least $80, $120 is the norm.

2. Running socks - no cotton here!  Technical fabrics or wool a must.  Highly important if running over 30 minutes to keep from getting blisters.

3. Sports bras - find a brand and fit you like and keep enough on hand to get through the week.  Even with itty bitty titties - bras are super important!

4. Shorts - Turbo Run Shorts from Lululemon - love these!  Nice length and a great pocket set up.  Zippered pocket in back, gel pocket in front.
Adidas Running Shorts - no idea what type I have, they are pretty old and bought on sale at the outlet mall.  These are my old stand by shorts.  They also have a good key pocket in the front. 

5. Running Hat - essential when running in the sun and also keeps hair outta yo face.

6. Technical t-shirts - you can get by in cotton for a long time, but when you make the switch to technical fabrics it's hard to go back.  Look for something in a fit that is comfortable, either form fitting or loose.  Don't go too big - that leads to chaffing.

7. Light weight running jacket - mine is a Nike brand, also bought on sale at the outlet. 

Don't spend too much money until you know what you like.  Sports apparel is big business, especially for women (see August issue of Runner's World), don't get sucked into the hype!  Check out the outlets and sales online.  The Selfish Mommy finds great deals at TJ Max and Ross.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Getting the Kids Active

A few weeks ago Gwen ran in the Casa Kids k run.  She had so much fun, even though she didn't want to do it when I first mentioned it.  She and I have started walking around the neighborhood at least once a week for a "trash run" picking up trash as we walk.  I like this because it's active, and we talk about not littering.  Makes me feel pretty self-righteous.  Tonight all three kids walked with me with the goal of picking up golf balls and we end up collecting a bag of trash along the way.  I didn't even have to carry anyone!  I also want to get Gwen walking to school once a week.  Last Wednesday was National Walk to School Day.  The whole family walked the mile to school and it was fun.  It helped that there were cheer leaders and a band keeping things upbeat at school. 

Now that the weather is pleasant we are playing outside after school.  As hard as John and I try to get them to play soccer Gwen flat out refuses to practice.  I think Jack and Maddy are almost ready for some actual game playing but they lose interest pretty fast in any organized games.

I wish I had some pictures!  I have been terrible about taking photos and posting any the past few months.  I will work on that, promise!

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Running Playlist

I've been thinking about my running playlist and what I want to listen to for the marathon.  On weekday runs I generally don't listen to music.  I'm running with Jennifer most days and we chat a lot, and I also feel more aware of my surroundings when I don't have head phones on.  But for long runs and the marathon I know I will want some music to occupy my mind. 

What do I like?  Fast paced music.  I consistently like Emimem Lose Yourself and Beastie Boys Sabatoge during any race.  I put a lot of music I THINK I will like on my running play list, and then end up being very annoyed when it comes on.  So, I'm putting some thought into my music and maybe trying some new things out. 

In a related post on Another Mother Runner, has some tips for creating running play lists today. 

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Marathon Training Schedule - Longest of the Long

Through the Houston Marathon Registration I purchased a training plan from Focus n Fly.  So far I like it and feel like it's appropriate.  This week there was some kind of glitch and I had to recalculate the rest of my schedule.  Now it has our longest long run scheduled for December 24th, 22 miles.  Total suck fest.  Not only is that a very busy day, but we will probably be arriving in Orlando after a 20+ hour drive.  Sooooo... we'll have to figure out an alternative plan.  Luckily I have some time to plan for this.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

See Amanda Run... No Where

Sunday's See Jane Run Austin 1/2 marathon was canceled!  If you were up around 6am you already know why.  Torrential down pore and high winds were the culprits.  Jennifer and I got down to the race and were prepared to brave the elements, wearing trash bags but in high spirits.  While there were a lot of people parked, most everyone was staying in their cars.  We went to the start line area and got the news that the event was canceled.  Due to the weather, set up of the course was delayed and APD was being pulled for accidents, volunteers were not showing up, the parking area was under water and it was a big ole' cluster fuck.  So they canceled the race.  As we walked back to the car, we knocked on windows and let people know.  While no one was surprised - it was crazy weather - most people were disappointed. 

They are offering discounted registration next year to make up for the cancellation.  I have mixed feelings about this race.  Good points is that it is a good time of year, there are not many other 1/2 marathons in the area, it was a new course in Mueller, we did get a coupon to sign up so we did not pay full price, it was also the perfect time for a training 1/2 for us with the marathon coming.  Bad points is that besides the weather, there seemed to be a lot of issues organizing the race.  Shit happens, something ALWAYS goes wrong, and I get that.  But there seemed to be more than normal here.  Besides changing the start time, change of after party location (not a big deal), the medals were lost and they ran out of t-shirts and glasses.  Even if the race had not been canceled they would have run out of medals, t-shirts and glasses.  There was no information on the website about packet pickup, it was only in an email.  It was the first year for this race in Austin, but this is a national company trying to extend their brand.  Even without the cancellation, I was bummed by the event planning.  If I had paid full price for this race I would be uber pissed. 

Jennifer and I ended up running 9-10 miles in the afternoon when there was a break in the rain.  It was post-barbecue for both of us, humid, and during our typical nap time lull.  We will do our planned 13.1 miles this weekend instead, dragging our butts up early on Saturday.

The wrong way to eat ice cream

Sunday, October 9, 2011

See Amanda Run

Sunday 7am - See Jane Run 1/2 Marathon... let's kick it!

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Breakfast Silly

Raspberry Fingers!

Friday, October 7, 2011

How many pairs do I have now?


This is pair #5.  Pairs 1 & 2 are out to pasture, only used for playing outside or grocery shopping.  Pair #3 will continue on, assuming it performs, through November.  Come December I will exclusively use pairs 4 and 5, and pair #5 will go to the marathon.

Running shoes last 200-500 miles depending on the shoe, how you run and how heavy you are.  I keep 2 pairs in rotation to reduce wear and make sure each pair is fully dry before wearing again.  I learned that it is good to have a dark pair and a light pair so that you can tell them apart at 5:10am when the lights are off.  Brooks Adrenaline have been good to me for many years and I love the new purple colors.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Time Waste # 432 Pinterest

If you use Pinterest, you already know it is a huge, fun, time suck.  Worse than Facebook or Twitter.  If you don't use it, email me and I'll send you an invite.

I found this, this, and this today, all while I should be curled up in bed sleeping.  But no, instead I'm thinking how cute it would be to make a sandwich shaped like a piggy, and that I should really try steel cut oatmeal again - for real!  And creating a new pin board for travel ideas for our next road trip.

Damn you Pinterest!

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

I am way to into this

Well, the format doesn't make it easy to read pasting it in here, but this is every race I have ever signed up for.  The 1/2 next weekend will be my 58th race 5th 13.1.  There are some gaps here and there after I had Gwen in 2006 and the twins in 2008.  One race I did not make it to (SHOCKER).  I also have a load of race t-shirts that I love dearly.



Race Name Date Distance Time
DashDown Greenville 5K 3/15/2003 5K 28:53
SusanGKomen 5K 11/2/2003 5K 27:53
Capitol 10,000 3/28/2004 10K 1:03:19
Texas Round Up 4/17/2004 10K 1:04:53
Chuy's Hot To Trot 5k 5/8/2004 5K 28:46
Keep Austin Weird 5k 8/28/2004 5K 30:56
Cedar Perk 5 Miler 10/10/2004 5M 43:35
Pervasive 10 Miler 10/24/2004 10M 1:43:42
SusanGKomen 5K 11/7/2004 5K 26:45
Trukey Trot 11/25/2004 5M 42:07
Dallas White Rock Half Marathon 12/12/2004 13.11M 2:05:27
Capitol 10,000 4/3/2005 10K 52:30
OKC Memorial Half Marathon 4/24/2005 13.1M 1:56:52
Chuy's Hot To Trot 5k 5/7/2005 5K 41:43
Silicon Labs Marathon Relay 6/5/2005 12K 1:07:18
Moonlight Margarita Run 8/4/2005 5K 25:17
Cedar Perk 5 Miler 10/9/2005 5M 42:11
SusanGKomen 5K 11/6/2005 5K 27:28
SusanGKomen 5K 11/5/2006 5K 28:20
Trukey Trot 11/23/2006 5M 45:35
3M 1/2 Marathon 1/28/2007 13.11 2:04:12
Mardi Gras 5k 2/10/2007 5K 27:08.70
Hawk Hustle 5K (3.06mi) 2/2/2007 5K 24:30
Capitol 10,000 3/25/2007 10K 51:10.2
Texas Round Up 4/28/2007 10K 51:11.3
Chuy's Hot To Trot 5k (bruised up) 5/12/2007 5K 25:15
Freedom 5k 7/4/2007 5K 23:36
Cedar Perk 5 Miler 10/7/2007 5M 38:15.4
Detroit Marathon 10/21/2007 26.2M 4:11:30
Jingle Bell 5k 12/16/2007 5K 25:00.35
Mardi Gras 5k (course 2.94) 2/2/2008 5k 24:59:00
Hawk Hustle 5K     volunteer
SusanGKomen 5K 11/1/2008   untimed
Statesman Capitol 10K (w/ Jenna) 3/29/2009 10k 1:02:11.0
Schlotzsky's Bun Run 5K  5/3/2009 5k 25:54
Detchenfest Pfun Run 5k (w/ Gwen) 5/17/2009 5k 26:51
Livestrong =   5k  
SusanGKomen 5K 11/1/2009   DNS
Statesman Capitol 10K 4/11/2010 10k 59:46
Detchenfest Pfun Run 5k (w/ Gwen) 5/16/2010 5k 26:46
Ignite 5K and Family Fun Mile (w/ Gwen) 6/12/2010 5k 29:21
Nelson Scholarship 5K Run Georgetown 7/3/2010 5k 25:06
Caleb 5k 7/17/2010 5k (3.15) 24:35
Casa Superhero 5k 9/19/2010 5k* (3.04) 23:21
Pflugerville Mom's Group 10/10/2010 5k (3.15) 24:08
SusanGKomen 5K 11/7/2010 5.k (3.19) 23:45
Jingle Bell 5k (w/ Gwen in stroller) 12/12/2010 5k 25:14
3M 1/2 Marathon RELAY individual 1/30/2011 6.79m 52:50
3M 1/2 Marathon RELAY w/ Jennifer 1/30/2011 13.10 1:46:48
10k pace 1/30/2011 6.20 47:48
Austin 1/2 Marathon 2/20/2011 13.22 1:50:05
Diva 5K Pflugerville 3/5/2011 3.17 23.32
Capitol 10,000 3/27/2011 6.28 48:34
Georgetown Red Poppy 5k 4/17/2011 3.14 23:18
Deutschen Pfest Pfun Run 5/22/2011 3.10 23:27
Moonlight Margarita Run 6/16/2011 3.12 23:43
Casa Superhero 5k 9/25/2011 3.19 22:52

Monday, October 3, 2011

Rambling Post

I listed to a podcast called Get-Fit Quick Guy's Quick and Dirty Tips to Slim Down Shape UP and.... yada yada yada.  It's pretty good and the podcast are short and easy to listen to on the ride to work.  He had done several podcast about running, one in particular about how to run faster.  #1 was Lose Weight.  Sounds harsh, but if you are carrying less weight you exert less effort, so you can go faster.  One benefit of the Biggest Loser competition was losing 5-7 vanity pounds and also getting faster.  Another benefit is that I have somehow managed to drop a lot of body fat - according to my scale at home anyway.  A few months ago the magic body fat scale put me consistently between 25-29% body fat.  I was annoyed by this, so I decided to tell the scale it was stupid and ignored it.  2 weeks ago, I noticed that my body fat now comes up at 12.5%.  Which is insane.  I figured it was one day and the scale is known to be stupid.  But it has always been consistent at least.  My fat% has stayed around 12.5%, so I sort of want to believe the stupid scale now, cause I like what it says.

If it's accurate, I can attribute this to two things.

1. Adding weight training into my workouts.  I have been trying to do weights or a Jillian Michaels video at least twice a week since Biggest Loser.  This helped me lose those vanity pounds, and has made my core and arms feel stronger.
2. Changing my diet.  I do have bad eating days (see Saturday and Sunday).  But I have been making a huge effort to eat more fruits and vegetables, pay attention to what I eat, eat more organic and less processed foods.  I am still tracking my calories in My Fitness Pal and that keeps me honest.  I skipped the Diet Soda for 5 days last week, which sucked big balls but was able to eat less afternoon candy - I still ate the candy, just not 10 pieces.  I'm reading Jillian Michaels  Master Your Metabolism, and gotten both scared and inspired to make some changes. 

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Workout Recap for Week of 9/26 - 10/2

Monday - Rest (after Casa 5k)
Tuesday - 5.7 miles 52:53, 9:17/mile
Wednesday - J.M. Ripped in 30 #3 (killer on the legs).  Had a sports massage today too.
Thursday - 5.57 miles 51:42, 9:17/mile very sore from massage and Ripped in 30
Friday - 3.21 miles 30:00, 9:21/mile
Saturday - rest and bad eating
Sunday - ~12.50 ~1:54:31, 9:07/mile avg, total is estimated because I turned my watch off for about 1.5 miles at the end

I ate totally terrible on Saturday, banana milk shakes and wings for dinner, but I actually had a great run on Sunday.  The weather was perfect and the whole thing felt easy.  I followed the long run up with Mexican food and a huge margarita for lunch, then promptly passed out for 2-3 hours.  Gwen was watching The Princess Bride for the first time and asked about 100 questions.  I found I could answer almost all of them without even cracking an eye to see the movie. 

Next Sunday is the See Jane Run 1/2 Marathon.  I'm excited for a big race and hoping to break my PR of 1:50:05 set at the Austin last February. 

Monday, September 26, 2011

Just for Fun, the Garbage Men Hate Us



I am standing in the driveway taking this picture.  We are the ONLY house that had our cans tossed about, so I can't blame the wind.  We must be putting the wrong stuff in recycle bin or something.

Umm... what?

I'm still not sure what to think about this, but there it is.  We are a 3 car family all of the sudden.  So much time is spent in the garage now, I can only assume a fridge and TV will soon be installed in there.  The guitar has not been played in weeks!  Boys and their toys.

Art Work - 1 year later

When Maddy got her 'big girl bed' months and months ago I picked out really cute bedding from Target that is pink with woodland creatures on it.  I planned to make my own art work to coordinate.  9 months later I finally did it!

Funny Kids

Now that Jack and Maddy are older, they play more together and will often disappear for 30-40 minutes getting into some mischief.  This picture was taken after Jack buried Maddy with all their stuffed animals.



Gwendolyn is doing well at school.  Last week a police officer came to her class.  After school she went up to her room and came down like this.  All in blue, with her police accessories, camera, and a note pad to write tickets and observations.  Officer Mills kept this up for 3 days.  She also created an alter ego "Lottie" who is bad and gets into trouble. 


This is the Mills version of planking.  A remote control car is on the floor and the kids run away from it.  Best way to avoid it is by staying off the floor.


Casa Superhero 5K Race Report

I have not been posting lately, so sorry for the 3 people that actually read this.

Race update: this weekend I ran the Casa Superhero 5k at the Domain in Austin, with Jennifer and Christina.  It was a nice day, good race, fun costumes, and great results!  I PR'd with a time of 22:52, 7:20 minutes/mile on average.  My goal was to PR (my previous time was 23:18 from April), so I am very excited.  I knew this was my best chance for the fall with marathon training.  I also placed 2nd in my age group, which is really cool. 

Mile one was into the wind.  The first 1/4 mile was challenging getting around people.  At the first turn around point I counted the women in front of me - 10.  I passed one quick (ended being the master's winner), number 8 I ran with most of the race.  I was pretty sure she was younger than me and she was definitely smaller than me (tiny).  At the 2 mile mark she passed me, then I passed her in the final mile.  It was motivating to have someone to pace, and by the end of mile 2 I knew I would at least PR.  Worst part of the race was the last 1/4 mile when we had to run PAST the finish line for a final loop.  It felt like it should be the end but no.  

Gwendolyn run the kids k portion of the race, dressed in cape and mask.  She had a great time and ran the whole thing.  John, Jack and Maddy came too to cheer us on, which was really nice. 

Sunday, August 28, 2011

First Week of Kinder

My baby girl is all grown-up!  Well, she's five anyway and finished her first week of Kindergarten.  Gwendolyn did awesome.  Tuesday John took Jack and Maddy to daycare early so that we could walk to school with Gwen.  John and I walked with her, as she wore her too big backpack and lunch box, beaming with pride over our big girl.  We had met her teacher the previous week, so knew where her classroom was and had already dropped off her supplies.  We walked her down to the classroom and she went right in and found her spot, waved good-bye and started the new school year.  And that was it.  No drama or tears, thank goodness. 

The first day John and I were DYING to hear all the details her day.  She obliged, but was annoyed by all our questions.  On Wednesday Gwen said that she "already told you yesterday!"  GAH!  Lucky for us she and Connor (my bestie's son) are in the same class and sit together, so I have a secondary source of information.  He doesn't tell Jennifer anything either, but eventually I will get some gossip.  So far it sounds like she is doing well and learning about the rules of her new school.  Murchison school spirit means putting "bubbles in your mouth and your hands behind your back", so shut your mouth and keep your hands to yourself! 

In other news soccer practice starts this week, religious ed starts in a few weeks and I am still debating about dance class or Daisy's. 

Next week: an review of Jack and Maddy's 3rd birthday!