A breath of fresh air

I ran with my new neighbor today and Will.  She is getting back into running after having ankle surgery in April.  It's not like running with you, Sarah.  But, it helps me feel more at home here in this new unfamilar place.  The run was very easy today.  There are a lot more hills here in Iowa.  I was a bit worn out from the Monday through Thursday runs.  I think I might even have run 5 a couple of the days or maybe it was just 4 miles.  I don't know my exact mileages.  There are two great bike trails and one is marked.  Our appartment is surrounded by lots of lawns and sport fields with wide sidewalks, so I have run around on those this week, too.  Off of the marked bike trail is a cross county course.  I've noticed it is marked by miles and kilometers.  I saw a 1K, a 7K, and a 2 mile sign.  I plan on exploring the course tomorrow without Will.  (The course is grass--you guys probably already knew that.)  Well, it's exciting to start a running blog.  Thanks for putting this together Sasha.  It definately beats paper!

Well, I ran a mile out to the cross country course.  I ran the outside of the course, but I am not sure how far I ran.  I started at the 2 mile sign.  Then I proceeded to pass a 7K, a 1K, a 4 mile, a 3K, a 3 mile, and a 5K/9K sign.  And I even saw a 6 mile sign.  I think I ran about a 2 mile loop around the course--Well, I was just surfing the internet, trying to find more information on the Ashton Cross Country Course and it said that the perimeter was 2,000 meter.  So I guess I didn't run that far--just over a mile.  So I only ran 4 miles instead of the 5 I thought I did.  Shoot.  I felt like I was working really hard and keeping a good pace.  It took me just over an hour to run to the course, run around the course, run a half mile further out on the bike trail (which is very close to the CC course), and then run the mile and a half home.  Next time I am not taking my watch.  I felt like it was a good long run, but with my watch I feel very, very slow.  Oh, well--on to putting up some pictures on my electronic photo album.

Ran an easy three with my neighbor, Jade.  We saw two young deer on the trail.  So far in Iowa, Will and I have seen a toad, a ferret, a cardinal, and now deer.

Will and I explored the marked trail further.  About two miles into the run, we came to fork in the path.  I chose left and ran a half mile in the wrong direction.  However, we did get in another hill.  The run went smoothly again, the trail dodged in and out of woods and small prairies. And then the woods opened up into the shopping mall.  Will and I had about a half a mile left (before we started heading back) and the path turned into a sidewalk which looked like it circled around the shopping mall.  Again, we didn't know to go right or left, so we ran a bit in both directions.  I couldn't find the 3 mile marker, but we ran enough to get in our half mile and turned to head home.  (I checked a map and turning right on the mall sidewalk takes you up the path to North Liberty, the next city above us.)  Highlights of our run, besides figuring out were to turn, are seeing two more deer, another toad, and the state bird (the Easter Goldfinch).  We saw two of them.  They were a yellow and black blur; they flew so fast.

I can tell that was a long, hilly run for me.  My body feels tired.

Will and I ran on the trail again, but went right at the first fork on the trail.  The trail turned into a sidewalk on a busy road and we headed back home.  (I clocked the road portion of the run yesterday.)  It was high seventies with a lot of humidity.  I was covered in sweat when we got back.  Will enjoyed chewing on his shorts' draw string.

Today's four miles seemed very long.  But, Will and I finsihed.  We saw a female cardinal and a couple more golden finches.  I have failed to mention that we see a couple daddy-long-legs everyday.  The spiders cross the trail around the one mile marker.  There must be a good spider community there.

I ran over to the track.  Once the mile warm-up was done, I tried to push myself the best I could.  I wasn't expecting much.  I wanted to get in a couple miles at a 8:30 minute pace (at least).  Here are my quarters:

2:13

2:05

2:08

2:05

2:05

1:58

1:56

1:48

The first mile 8:31, second 7:48.  For feeling worn out form the prior four days of running, I was very pleased with the results.  I was grateful for the different type of run and for my husband watching Will, so I could be by myself for a while.  I think running faster and faster over the course of the race is my style.  I will continue to aim for more consistency, but to know I can get myself to dig deeper can be a strength.

Will and I took it easy today.  'Ran up the trail two miles, then ran home.  We even paused for a moment to look at the very full river.  Will enjoyed that.

Speaking of Will, today was a big day.  Will took his first steps.  He not only took his first steps, twenty minutes later he was wandering around the room, picking up his favorite ball, and pulling himself up to standing position all by himself.  When he is walking toward us, he is practically running.  I guess Will decided today was the day because I think he's been capable of walking for at least a month and a half. 

Ran with Jade and Will.  Mostly talked about religion.

Will and I did another seven!  I think I was a bit nervous about this run.  I woke up tons last night.  I kept looking at the clock.  What am I worried about?

The run went well.  We went up and down the hills and in and out of the woods.  Will did pretty well--he did his new scream a few times, but I can't complain.  We were gone for over 80 minutes.  I did sing to him a few times on the way back.

We saw more runners, walkers, and bikers than usual (about 10).  One runner and one biker we saw three different times.  They were speedy.

This 7 mile run didn't seem as long as last weeks.  Maybe last week's seven was closer to 8 or 9?

Will and I ran the first half with Jade.  This may sound weird--my kidneys have been bothering me in my first mile.  Maybe it's not my kidneys, but an area in the middle of my back fills tight for the first mile or so.  It could be a very strange breathing cramp.  Seriously for the first mile my insides feel like they're bouncing around.  I am glad it goes away after I am warmed up.

The weather is a little less humid today.  It's suppose to rain.

I tried fast miles with the jogging stroller.  I wasn't expecting much.  I warmed up a mile and a quarter.  I did the run on the marked trail.  The first mile was mostly downhill and the second was back up that same hill.  I was aiming for 2:30 a quarter.  I figured I should be able to run at least a ten minute mile with a stroller.  (Now keep in mind, I have a single jogging stroller--not a double.)  Here are my quarters:

2:21

2:20

2:12

2:11

2:10

2:14

2:08

2:10

My first mile was 9:14 and the second was 8:42, for the marvelous total of 17:56.  Will and I were cruising especially the last half a mile.  It was all up hill!  Silly to think I did 2:20's going down it.  But, there is my running theme--slow to fast.

I was going to jog the last half mile home, but I decide to stop by the swings on the way home.  Will was very pleased.

Will and I ran the first half with Jade, my neighbor.  We talked about workout facilities at the universities we attended and about the barbaque Jade and her husband are throwing for our apartment complex.  They bought a lot of food and hope the neighbors come.

I tried to keep the second half at a quick pace.  Will complained more today which is great motivation for running faster.  I think he was cold.  I tried to dress him warm, but his jacket, sweatpants, and shoes weren't enough.  Part of the problem was he kept taking off his right shoe and sock.  (For some reason, he hasn't been able to get off the left one.)  His little foot was freezing.

I have had the worst stomach ache--it penetrates through to my back. The back and stomach pains started Saturday. It hurts when I eat. It hurts when I don't eat. It hurts when I sleep. It hurts when I stand or sit. It hurts all day long. And it has gotten worse since it started Saturday. Tylenol helps with the back pain and if I keep myself busy enough, I can manage the stomach pain. Sometimes I feel nauseated. Sometimes the pain is super sharp. And the rest of the time my stomach just aches. My stomach is painful to the touch, too--right between my ribs and just below my sternum. If I flex, it doesn't hurt when touched.

I am thinking it's a digestive problem. I have been trying to take it easy. Running today was overall great. It felt soooooo good to be out again. However, at the beginning my insides felt like they were bouncing around again and downhills were very hard on my insides. I ended up walking down them. I am going to go again tomorrow.

This is some crazy pain. I went to the doctor on Monday. All they said was it wasn't life threatening and it wasn't muscular. They said to eat lots of tums and tylenol and to go see more doctors. I'd love to be my normal self again. Any suggestions?

Thanks for all your advice.  In my six hour stay at the hospital, I did have my gallbladder checked by an ultra sound.  The doctor said it looked fine.  I think it's a stomach/digestive issue.  I am going to take your advice and drink more water, purchase some red raspberry and tummy tea, eat mashed potatos, and cut back on the dairy products.

There were a couple moments this evening that my stomach didn't hurt.  I think it was because I was able to talk to Sarah.  Thank you, Sarah.

Today's run was similar to yesterdays.  After about a half a mile, my stomach pain didn't feel so bad.  Will and I stayed away from the hills as much as possible.  I enjoyed it, but it did feel long.  Will enjoyed looking down at the creeks as we ran over them.

Will and I ran with Jade this morning.  I told Jade about my results from the Strengths Finder test.

1) Achiever

2) Harmony

3) Woo

4) Communication

5) Belief

Lars bought me the book last week, so I could take the test.  I really enjoyed reading about what the test thought my talents/strengths are.  Have any of you taken the Strength Finder test?  The test is by the Gallup Organization and the book is by Tom Rath.

I felt so free this morning when I started my run.  My shoes felt great.  I was stroller-free.  I was happy starting my run.  The morning still felt cool, although it was 9 o'clock.  After about a mile, I turned off the wooded trail and felt the sun.  I made my way toward the track slowly.  I wanted to get in some 8 minute miles.  Here are my quarters:

2:10  (You would think after a two mile warm-up I could have gone faster on my first quarter.)

2:00

1:56

1:56

1:52  (Another runner had just past me and I think (sub-consciously) was trying to keep up with him.)

1:56

2:00

1:55

Fatigue started to set in during the last half mile.  I was super tired, but I jogged the mile and a half home.  I feel good and tired.  Running is calming,  rewarding, and different everyday.  Today's run was dedicated to my shoes.  (Dedication inspired by Lybi.)

After Will and I said good-bye to Jade, I was feeling good and decided to add two more miles, instead of one.  Will didn't complain too much.

I did my fast miles with Will again.  I tried to run the half mile before my fast miles more quickly.  I was hoping that by picking up the pace my first couple quarters wouldn't be so slow.  It worked maybe a little too well.  Here are my quarters.

2:01--I was going for 2:15 or 2:10.  The better warm-up and the downhill helped.

2:09

2:10

2:15

2:06

2:07

2:10

2:14--Wow!  I ran hard up the hill.  Will was shouting encouragement.  Well, anything he babbled, I took as encouragement.

So 17:12 minutes (8:35 and 8:37)!

Jade said that we actually ran 3.6 together on Monday.  She said it felt easy, so today we ran four together.  I enjoyed our run.

Will and I went to the track to run our fast miles today.  Halfway through, I turned around and ran the opposite direction.  Around this time, I noticed Will wasn't talking any more.  He wasn't moving very much either.  Will had fallen asleep!  When I started to wonder if Will would stay asleep once we got home, I lost track of my quarter times.  Luckily, Will slept some more.  I was able to shower and have some time to read and eat breakfast.  I am grateful for naps.

My mile times were 8:58 and 8:51. 2 miles--17:47

Jade, Will, and I were going to run three miles today on a hilly course.  On the way home, I asked Jade if she was up to running one more mile.  She agreed!  Jade said she felt good, but her legs did feel a bit tired.  We did a hilly four.  Halfway through, Will fell asleep again.  He is the cutest kid.

Will and I went for an evening run.  It was 65 degrees and beautiful.  The run felt nice and easy.

Will enjoyed the whole run today.  We ran the first 3.6 with Jade.  I felt a little slow at first, but it was a good run.  I had a moment when I thought, "I can run five miles. . . and it's easy.  Wow, I am amazing!"

Will enjoyed the entire run again today.  We ran on the marked trail again for the fast miles.  The first mile was mostly down hill with the wind--8:07.  The second mile was mostly up hill against the wind--8:28.  16:35.

Will and I ran with Jade this morning.  It took a mile for my legs to feel normal.  They were tight and sluggish at first.  Jade and I talked about making Christmas goodie plates for our neighbors. 

I love Christmas.  I like thinking up Christmas traditions.  One year I would like to start the tradition of making my own Christmas wreath.  Making candies (like chocolate dipped carmels with nuts and english toffee) is another activity I would like to make into a tradition.  I've made toffee once and this December will be my first time to make carmels.  --I have to laugh because a lot of you have been talking about eating food that will be good "fuel" and the candies I plan on making aren't great "fuel."  Also, I'm laughing because I am thinking about what Tom said on Lybi's blog about changes can happen over time.  I hope over time that I will be really good at making these candies. 

One tradition I have started is making stockings for my family.  I am working on the fourth one now, although it might be a couple years before we use it.  Another tradition we've done the past three years is Chirstmas Wishes--where we talk into a tape recorder and say what we would like to do or see happen in the next year.  Lately we've been telling our Christmas Wishes after Christmas, which makes it more of New Year Resolutions.  However, it's still fun to actually record the "wishes" through talking and I like listening to them a year later.

Do you guys have any traditions you like?

On our run today, Will and I saw a rabbit, a chipmunk, lots of squirrels, and a dead mouse.  The stretch of trail with the dead mouse, we ran twice.  The second time through, I remembered the mouse about a quarter of a mile after we passed it.  I hope Will and I didn't run over it.  Guess there's not much to worry about.  Fur, little bones, and blood are all natural, right?  EW!!

Today, I've been picturing myself running on the track.  I am wearing my junior high, aqua shorts, my navy BYU basketball (that Lars caught at the Marriott Center) t-shirt, and my under-armor, running socks.  As a run, my shoes feel amazingly comfortable--with every step I think cushion.  My pace feels fast, but still easy.  I finish my first lap; my watch says 1:43.  Thinking about what time I want to see on the watch on the next split, I start my next lap.  I decided to aim for another 1:43, so I want the watch to say. . . it takes me a half a lap to calculate what I want the time to be. 

"The ones make two minutes and then put the forties together will give another minute.  How much is left over? Well, definitely the two threes are six seconds and it took twenty seconds to make another minute."  

I want the timer to read 3:26 seconds.  I start to focus on this time. 

"3:26. 3:26.  Pick it up, you've got to get 3:26.  Hey your shoulders are tense!  Relax.  Relax your body.  3:26.  Come on 3:26!  Wow!  3:23!  You beat 1:43!  You did it.  You can beat 7 minutes!"

As I start the third lap, I have to start fighting the fatigue.  You can rest after two more laps.  Again I begin to calculate my time.  I decide I'll go for another 1:43.

"So 3:23 plus 1:43.  Four minutes and then the 20 and 40 will give another minute.  5:06 is what you want.  5:06.  5:06.  Come on 5:06!  You can rest later."

--I'm going to go fix dinner.  I am visualizing patience with myself, if the new meal I am trying doesn't work out.  And I will continue to visualize fast quarters as I brown pork chops!

Will and I ran with Jade this morning.  We talked more about Christmas.  Jade's family keeps the decorations very simple.  I admired that.  I told her about my Christmas Eve's growing up.  It involved a play--which was created and preformed by us kids, mexican dinner with red and greeen enchiladas, the talent show, reading Luke 2, reading Polar Express, and opening one present.  I also talked about caroling and making and decorating sugar cookies.

I was nervous about my trail mile run.  I new it would be tough and it was.  I tried to focus on my legs and tell them they could go faster.  By the middle of the first quarter, I was rememinding myself that I only had to do four laps.  Only four.

1:41

1:44

1:48

1:43

6:56!  I broke seven minutes!  My fastest time I remember in college was 7:12.  And before that 6:18 in seventh grade.  But, still under seven.  I am pleased.  I really don't like running in that much pain.

And I met Katie.  She was doing speed workouts.  She's run a couple halfs and a marathon (3:40ish!).  I hope we will be able to run on Saturdays.  We'll see.  Next Saturday is my ten mile race.  So maybe the week after that.

Will and I ran 3 miles with Jade.  Jade went home to get ready for work and Will and I ran 2.8 more.  I felt very slow on the hills, but we enjoyed the run.

Here's my Eclipse scoop, but it will spoil the book if you haven't read it.

I finished Eclipse Saturday, so much for finishing it in five days.  Overall I liked it.  I can't believe how selfless Edward it.  I liked the Frost poem and the magnet symbolism.  I kept waiting for the battle to happen and was surprised Jacob and Edward kept having face offs.  Seriously, for three chapters I kept thinking the next chapter would be the battle chapter.  I was anticipating a character dying and was curious who's it would be.  I wasn't expecting Jacob's or Edward's death but, Leah or maybe Seth would disobey orders and join the fight.  I did enjoy Edward and Jacob's conversation in the tent.  I was surprised that Bella loved Jacob--I believed Bella the whole time.  I loved Edward being the "interpreter" for the pack and how reading the pack's minds was like a soap opera.  I thought the paragraph about Edward and Alice playing chess was funny.  I enjoyed the battle scene.  No one died, and I was okay with that.  I am glad that Edward and Bella are keeping their virtue.  I feel good about Bella's decision to have a wedding to say good-bye to her parents and Forks.

I can't wait to find out Bella's superpower.  Maybe her power will be whoever she focuses on will be immune to mental powers.  Like Jane won't be able to hurt Edward as long as Bella is there to block Jane from entering Edward's mind.  Or Bella will disable anyone's mental powers in the room.  That could be a good thing and a bad thing.  I guess all the powers come with an upside and a downside.  Anyone have guess on what Bella's vampire power will be?  Do you have a new guess, Lybi, now that you've finished Eclipse or are you still waiting to get your book back?

Other Eclipse questions on my mind:

Will Jacob come back?  Will he try to stop the wedding?--I think he will, but I don't think he will stop the wedding.  At least I don't think he will.  I mean, isn't that what all of Eclipse was about?  Bella choosing Edward once and for all.

What will happen with the packs and Cullen coven team work/friendliness?  Will the Volturi discover it and declare war on the "team?"

Will and I hammered out four miles today.  Everything was wet.  There was a pretty good storm early, early this morning.  We took the stroller's rain cover, but we didn't need it.  Will and I still haven't ran in the rain here and we've been in Iowa for almost seven weeks.  Our days are numbered.  We'll get wet soon enough--I'm sure.

Will, Jade, and I ran a new route: 1.5 miles to a neighborhood, a mile through the houses, and the same 1.5 back home.  The first half was up hill and the second half was down hill.  The weather was cooler. 

I think I over-dressed Will  because he feel asleep again.  But, thankfully he took his normal naps, too, and I was able to finish piecing the twinsize denim banket for my sister-in-law.

Will and I enjoyed the weather.  It's a beautiful day.  Tomorrow Will and I will run two.  I am tapering Sasha-style.  Sasha and I don't live in the same "running" world.  I remember Sarah telling me Sasha was going to run an easy six before a marathon.  For me, six miles is possible, but not my easy run before a ten mile race.  I figured two miles would be good.

I use to take a couple days off before the race.  I probably still would if I wasn't blogging my miles.  I love watching them add up.

Will and I enjoyed another lovely morning on our run.  Tomorrow's the race.  Hobbey-Ho!

I had a PR today by two minutes! And I broke the 8:17 mile pace barrier!! I didn't stick around to find out the official results, but my watch read 1:21:50.

The race was held a Lake MacBride State Park. Nine miles of the race was on a well marked dirt trail, which made it possible to check my quarter splits.  Every once and a while the dirt trail weaved out of woods and I was able to take in the beautiful lake. I saw several geese and a huge bird of prey--I think is was an eagle.  Because the trail was next to the lake, most of the hills weren't super severe.

I met Tina around mile 2 and we ran together for about four miles. (She's training for the marathon in Vegas, Dec 2. We were very well matched. I love how running with someone makes the miles pass quickly.) To save energy for the one big, steep hill at mile 9, I concentrated on trying not to talk too much. Tina was very nice. We encouraged everyone we saw running the other way on the trail. (It was an out and back course.) Our five mile split was around 41 minutes. I wanted very badly to get another 41 minutes on the second five. The next quarter split I timed was 2:13. I wasn't pleased. I wanted to keep the pace near two minute quarters as much as I could. At mile six, Tina told me to keep going and pass the girl ahead of us. After I passed the girl in white and another guy, I could see a three more runners ahead. I kept focusing on closing the distance on these three runners. I had a streak of great splits 2:01, 2:00, 1:58. When I did have a 2:06 split, I didn't get upset. I just tried to pick it up and keep after those three runner. When I hit mile 9's hill, I passed one of the three runners. However, I still wanted to catch up to the other two. The hill was tough, but I pictured myself in fast training runs pushing Will up hill.  It worked and it felt great not to be pushing a jogging-stroller! The trickiest part of the hill was the trail's dirt wasn't as packed down as the rest of the course. It was hard to get footing--like running up a sand dune. What a relief it was to hit the pavement for the last half mile! I felt powerful back on the hard road. And I passed the two runners I'd been following since mile 7!

I loved it. I love races. I get nervous every time, but what a rush it is to cross the finish line!

Will and I ran the first three miles with Jade.  And we ran in rain.  Well, it was between a mist and a drizzle.  The morning was so warm that I took off the stroller's rain cover for the last mile and a half.  Will and I enjoyed the misty drizzle.

Will and I tried a new running route.  We ran and ran and ran.  Up the hill.  Down the hill.  Up the hill.  Down the hill.  Up the hill. Down the hill.  On and on... For a while it seemed like the run and the hills would never end.

I'm probably still tired from the race.  We'll try the new route again next week.

Will and I ran with Jade this morning.  Today was much more enjoyable than yesterday.  Will and I didn't miss the hills and we loved Jade's company.

Will and I ran the new, hilly course from Tuesday.  I know I said I wouldn't try it again until next week, but Will and I were looking to run at least five miles and the new, hilly course is a wonderful loop.  We faired better today on the hills and the course didn't seem as long. 

Will brought along a stick he found.  He waved, tapped, and tasted the stick before he peacefully dropped it about mile 3.

Will, Jade, and I ran up, up, up the hill to a neighborhood and then back down the hill again.

Today I was telling Jade about my recent bids on eBay. I have been bidding on a couple Bucilla felt Christmas stocking kits. I don't remember the titles of the stockings, but one is three bears decorating a tree and the other is two polar bears sledding. I have already made three stockings: a big Santa (I don't remember it's official title), a big snowman with lots of snowflakes (Let It Snow!), and carolers in front of church (O Holy Night!). I am working on a fourth (Santa's Toy Shop). I love the detail of the embroidery, beads, sequins, and colorful felt. I also like how it's easy to stop and start working on them. And they're not too hard to make. Mostly you just tie lots of knots.

Anyway, Jade's Christmas stocking growing up was a felt stocking! Her grandma made it for her. And she didn't think anyone made felt stockings anymore. After the run, I showed her my stockings and some online. Jade's thinking about making two for her and her husband. It was fun to share something I really like with someone and have them be excited about it, too. That doesn't always happen. For example, I tell people about the blog and usually they don't get excited. However, I was thinking it would be fun to wear a fastrunningblog.com t-shirt. The shirt would be a good conversation starter and runners could stare at it as I pass them.

I am loving the summer weather!  The high today was 86.  I hope fall can be nice and long, too.

My fast miles were awesome.  I was trying for 1:50 quarters.  I started out slow again, but overall I was pleased.

2:02

1:58

1:53

1:51

1:53

1:53

1:52

1:49

So, 7:44 and 7:27 for 15:11!  That's a PR for an outdoor track.  I was very tired, but I ran the 3.2 more miles to make it an even 7. 

Will and I ran the first 3 miles with Jade.  Will and I saw some interesting mushrooms.  They were flat, as big as my hand, and grew out from the bottom of a tree.  It looked like a very nice place for a big toad to sit.  Will enjoyed the entire run.  We loved  the temperature:  71 degrees.  Tomorrow morning it is suppose to be 48!  And Wednesday 39!  Winter is coming.

A couple questions:

1)  Is it healthy to run fast miles during a long run?

2)  What is a good winter training for me?

For the first time, I miss the mountains.

Will and I were taking a new way to the store.  I missed the exit.  As we drove on to the next exit, the rolling hills gave way to flat fields.  I looked to the left and was surprised not to see mountains.  I had forgotten I was in Iowa.  No mountains.  Just clouds. 

I am grateful to be surrounded rolling hills and trees.  They are beautiful.  I love the fall colors especially the trees that turn red.  Without the hills and trees, I would miss the mountains even more.

Will and I ran the hilly course today.  My right ham string is still bothering a bit.  Almost three miles into the run, Will and I found the stick will dropped last Thursday.  I picked it up and Will waved it and tapped it, but did not taste it this time.  Will dropped it again this time at about mile 5.  I don't think we will see it again.  But, you never know.

I appreciate all the comments from yesterday.  But, I need to go to bed, so I won't get back to you until tomorrow.  Thanks for all your support.

Will, Jade, and I ran the four together.

I wasn't planning on running 8. How it happened...

About 5:20 am, Will woke up. After forty minutes of quality crib play, I went to get Will. Will and I went about our morning as usual. Will ate three quarters of an orange and a handful of Special K. I ate my bowl of Special K. The weather channel informed us it was 41 degrees with not much wind. (Thank goodness! We had plenty of wind yesterday.) I helped Will put on his sweats and jacket over his pajamas. After we velcroed Will's shoes and said good-bye to Dad, we were off to run 6 miles

And then during mile 3, Will feel asleep. We had a busy day ahead of us and I decided 1) this would be Will's morning nap and 2) a three mile morning nap would be too short. So I kept running. Adding another half mile, after another. Will woke up happy at the beginning of mile 7. And the rest day went well enough.

The extended run was refreshing. I was able to think. By the end of the run, I made sense of where I stood on some family matters. It felt good to be able to sort things out in my mind. I feel much better.

I would love to run in the Moab Half with the Dashing Divas and the PF Chang Rock'n'Roll Marathon with you, Shauna.  Those races sound awesome.  No promises, but thanks for the invitations.  I feel the love of the blog!

Will woke up this morning at 5.  I was worried that Will would fall asleep again during the run.  I had big plans for today and Will's morning nap was crucial for making those plans work.  He didn't fall asleep!  It was wonderful.

My plan was Will to sleep in the port-a-crib, so I could attend a quilt group this morning.  I knew Will might cry a bit because he would be sleeping in a strange, new room.  I figured he and I could handle it.  Actually, I didn't give either of us much choice because today the quilt group was tying my denim blanket.  Everything was working out perfectly.  I even fit in two errands before we headed to the church for the quilt group.  Will was getting very sleepy in his car seat.  I started to think maybe he wouldn't fuss too much because he was so tired.  And then. . . we got stuck behind a TRAIN!  A very long train.  A very slow train.  A train that stopped dead on the tracks with two train cars to go!

We waited.  Will feel asleep.  I waited and waited.  I laughed when the train came to a complete stop.  Some cars turned around, but being new to the area--I had no idea if there was another way.  Our car was also trapped between another lane of cars and a curb.  We waited for a half an hour.

With Will awake, we tied the denim quilt.  The women in the quilt group are extremely nice and patient probably because they were all mothers of fifteen month olds at one time.

Questions for all you mothers:

When did you know your children were ready for one nap a day?

How did you teach them not to throw their food on the floor?  (Will throws his food on the floor when he is finished.  Sometimes I am able to anticipate when he is done, but other times I clean the floor.)

The forecast calls for rain and thunderstorms for the next three days.  For my run, temperature was a wonderful 51 degrees and the sky is filled with low grey clouds.

I wanted to run eight minute miles for 4 miles today, so I could build some confidence for my 5k race next weekend.  I have only run three 5k races.  The first race was in 2001 and I ran it in about 27 minutes.  (This first 5k was my one and only race from 1993 until 2005.  Before that I ran track in seven grade and a mile run for kids when I was about 7.)  The second race I was almost five months pregnant.  I ran it in about 30 or 31 minutes.  The third race I ran with Will when he was three months old.  Again 30 or 31 minutes.  So, next weekend will be my first 5k that I will go for a big PR.

As I started my run, I considering being more realistic with myself.  I felt a little cold and slow.  Plus, I have never run a fast four miles outside of  a race and decided I would be pleased if I ran three miles in 24 minutes.  I figured if I could do 3 miles in 24 minutes, I definitely could break 23 minutes in a 5k race. So, I set out to try to keep my quarters close to two minutes.

Here are my mile splits:

8:05--first three quarters were down hill.

7:58--very pleased with this mile.  I didn't know if I was going to be able to keep up the two minute quarters.  But, I did.

8:01--I was determined to get another eight minute mile and this mile was a little more up hill.

8:11--last three quarter completely up hill.  A very big hill.  I felt good that I had gotten 24:04 for three miles and just tried to get up the hill in another 8 minutes to reach my original goal of four eight minute miles.

32:15!  I am very pleased.  And I am excited for next Saturday's 5k in Swisher.

 Does anyone else think it would be cool to run 2008 miles in the year 2008?

I don't know how you guys do it.  Getting out the door to run once is tough.  But doing it twice a day.  My hat's off to you, Lybi, and you, Michelle, and anyone else that runs twice a day.

So this morning, Will and I ran three miles with Jade.  Then Will and I rushed off to the doctor's for Will's fifteen month check-up.  I was under the impression that Will didn't have to get any shots at this well baby appointment.  WRONG!  Poor Will.  He got four shots AND they pricked his finger to draw blood.  He was so sad.  When we got home, he slept for two and a half hours.  He's back to his normal self tonight.  We were just dancing to music and bouncing, throwing, and kicking the BIG basketball.

This afternoon I ran five.  It's definitely different running without Will or Jade or my watch.  I felt good when it was over.

Will and I saw two deer with very long legs and two beautiful hawks on the run.  We also saw a man in a Civic roll down his window and stare at us.  That was a little scary.  I didn't have my glasses on, but I stared back.  Quickly, I decided to head back towards home and was very grateful to be running on a busy road.  Nothing happened, but I kept looking over my shoulder just in case.  Probably he didn't mean anything by it--maybe he was also going for a run.  But, it's better to err on the side of caution.

Today I decided to run four instead of six miles.  Will and I had a pleasant run with Jade.  Near the end of the I asked Jade if she was ready to run five miles.  Four miles hasn't been a big deal lately and she said she was up for trying.  So, next Wednesday, we'll try our first five mile run together.  I want to come up with a couple five mile routes.  Got to have variety.

I am grateful for running partners.  They make the world a better place.

Addiction.  It's the only way to explain it.  I can't stop.  While, I was changing sheets and loading the washing machine, I thought I could run another three miles.  No sweat!  And that's what Will and I did, after Will ate lunch.  Seriously, I couldn't just run four today.  Had to run more.

Will and I saw a blue jay and a cardinal.  We also saw beautiful fall trees. 

I felt a tired on the run today.  Not worn out, but tired.  I hope I haven't over done the mileage this week--I wanted to get over thirty miles.  I don't think I have.  Tomorrow I am going to run four.

I'll probably be fine.  It's just a race.  If I don't finish under 23 minutes, life will still be good.  And I can try again later.

The wind was hurendous! So, of course, I thought of Michelle and the jogger stoller became five thousand trillion times harder to push.  As Will, Jade, and I kept going the run got easier.

Today it took my two and a half miles to tell Jade the story line of the movie Prestige.  Wednesday, Jade told about me the latest episodes she has seen of the TV series Jericho.

Tomorrow's the 5k in Swisher!  Overall, I am excited.  23 minutes here I come!

Overall, I consider it a good race since it's pretty much my first 5k not pregnant and not pushing a jogging stroller.  I was hoping to break 23 minutes, but 23:56 works and I learned a lot. (7:43 pace)

The best part of the race was my family.  My parents are in town from Ohio and my dad decided to enter the 5k as a walker.  After I finished, I ran back to walk in with him.  However, I ended up jogging to keep up with his fast walk.  And my dad took home the first place trophy for the male walkers!!  It was a riot!

I also ran with my nine year old sister in the kid 400 yard dash.  She got 2:08!  It was a lot of fun to cheer her on.

My husband was so kind and followed Will around during both races.

About my race, I didn't warm up well.  I only noticed when I started the race.  My feet didn't feel right.  In fact, it was like I didn't have feet--just stubs.  I thought that maybe I tied my laces too loose.  However, by the beginning of the third mile, my feet finally felt normal.  Part of the reason was the temperature, 41 degrees.  Again, I should have warmed up better.  I know for next time to run at least a mile before my race.

I was the fourth women to finish. It was cool to recieve a trophy for finishing first in my division.  And I am sure I'll break 23 minutes soon.

Will and I ran the first three miles with Jade.  Then Will and I headed to the track.  There we ran the fast mile in 8:14.  Will did not enjoy the last mile and a half of the run. 

This morning I did not want to run.  In fact, the idea of not running today sounded very appealing.  Then I reminded myself how I'd feel better if I went.  I decided I'd put it off for awhile and run after lunch, but then I thought of all the errands I wanted to do.  Running this morning was the only way to fit everything in my day.  I finally got out the door around 7:45.

Although, the run seemed long, it was pleasant enough.  Will and I saw two dead moles or mice and two very graceful deer.  Actually, Will didn't see the deer.  He feel asleep about half way through the run.  And I failed to mention that Jade, Will and I saw deer yesterday, too.

Jade, Will, and I ran our first five miles together.  It went well.

I didn't want to run today at all.  And I didn't not enjoy my run.  Tomorrow will be better because I'll get to run with Jade again.

Jade, Will, and I tried a new route, an out and back.  It worked well and of course there were some great hills.

Will and I dodged a lot of tail-gaters this morning.  With bike lane, we didn't have to slow down too much.  We saw a lot of gold and black.  Will and I were mostly wearing navy.  I was sporting my Boston Red Sox beanie.  I am with Mik'L--Go Red Sox!

Will and I ran the first three miles with Jade.  Today's run felt better especially the last mile and a half.  My hips have been achey the past couple of days, but during the run they felt great.  I don't know why they are stiff.

I did some fast miles with the jogger stroller.  Will and I enjoyed the weather (65 degrees) and the sunset.  Here are my mile splits:

8:11--mostly down hill with a tail wind

8:28--just rolling hills through the trees

8:36--mostly up hill with a (well, it felt ferocious) head wind

I still feel tuckered.  It's a good tuckered, though.  My right hip was bugging me during the entire run.  Definitely a muscle thing.  I am taking Shauna's advice and stretching more.

Jade ran six with Will and I today!  We ran another hilly route.  We tied Jade's record for her longest run.  She's one tough gal!  However, I hope I am not pushing her too much.  We plan on just doing five on Friday.  I am trying to think of the flattest possible course.  Well. . . not much is flat around here, but there is definitely less hilly.

Will was a pilot for Halloween.  We went trick-or-treating to three neighbors' apartments and Will got eleven peices of candy!  He didn't know what was going on, but we loved seeing our neighbors.  I am grateful for wonderful neighbors.  It's always nice to have friends near by.

It was 32 degrees when Will and I headed out the door.  I was grateful that Will feel asleep on the run because it helps me to know he's warm enough.  The run was relaxing even though in the beginning it felt like the run was going to be forever long.

Will, Jade, and I ran the flattest course possible.  There was a pretty good hill at the end.  My legs told me how tired they were, but the hill was over before I knew it.

To make the run interesting, I wanted to run some fast miles. During the first quarter mile, I decided to the fast miles on the trail instead of the track. Then while I was jogging my warm up miles, I decided for my fast miles to run 2.5 miles out and 1.5 miles back (to mix up the hills). Here are my mile splits.

8:11--I felt like everything was in slow motion. I decided to appreciate all my quarter splits that were under 2:10.

8:08--It was hard to breath. I think it was sunny and about 40 degrees.

7:45--This third mile was the flattest of the four. During this mile I finally stopped thinking about how cold my hands were. I also felt like I pushed this mile the hardest.

7:30--I guess I was finally warmed up.

The over all four mile time was 31:34. I was surprised. I beat the four mile timed run I did on October 13 by a minute. And it was a lot warmer then. Of course my last mile that day was straight up hill. Today the last mile was just hilly.

I ran 37 miles this week. That's a PR for me. Could I run 38 a week over the next five months and set myself up to run 2008 miles in 2008? I don't know. It would take a lot of work getting to indoor tracks when the weather gets really nasty. When the wind makes the temperature below zero, I am not sure I'll be running in that. Luckily Will and I have been able to still run in the early mornings. Will does well in 30 degrees. Eventually we will need to run later in the day. I wonder how cold is too cold for Will.

Sure 2008 in 2008 is possible. But, do I want to spend the time to do that?

Ran the first three with Jade.  There was a strong wind advisory with gusts up to 50 miles per hour.

Hills I can handle.  Cold I can handle that too.  But, super strong winds while pushing a jogging stroller with a rain cover. . . at one point I thought I was going backwards.  And Will and I saw a tree blow over.  Luckily we were a safe distance away.

Ran by myself today.  I tried to keep the pace as fast as possible, so my husband could get to class on time.  Definitely finished under an hour.  With the wind chill, it was 23 degrees.

Will and I were able to get out this afternoon. One report said the wind was 12 mph and the wind chill was 37 degrees. Will and I did fine. Here are my mile splits.

8:22--mostly down hill with the wind

8:36--overall hilly. I felt like I was working hard. I was very pleased to sneak my first two miles under seventeen minutes.

8:59--mostly up hill against the wind. I had a hard time focusing. My mind was wandering. My reminders to myself to keep pushing the pace gave way to fatigue.

Overall I felt I had a good work out. I gave it my best.

I think I know what's causing discomfort in my right hip. It's not so much the hip, but my bottom/upper ham string. Anyway, I think the muscle strain comes from the jogging stroller. The alignment is off. It veers ever so slightly to the left. I think I'll take it to a bike shop to see if they can straighten it out.

Other news, I have now completed three ab work outs in the past week. I am excited to continue to add more. Mostly I've just been doing so many different types of crunches including leg lifts, the plank, and reverse rowing. (I don't know if those are universal names, but that's what I call them.) Today, however, I tried a Pilates video, my former neighbor gave me. The DVD is divided into 5 ten minute work outs. I just tried the ten minutes of abs. It was okay.  I didn't get the full effect--Will needed some attention. I am excited to try it again and very excited about the arms and shoulders workout and stretching sessions.

Will slept most of the run.  It was a beautiful, sunny day.  My only complaint about the run was my bottom/ham string.  It bothered me the entire run, but only on my run.  My hip felt great the rest of the day.

Enjoyed running with Jade this morning.  Will fell asleep on the run again.  I don't remember my hip bothering me today.  That's a plus.

I ran to the grocery store with Will to pick up bread.  Today was very enjoyable.  One of my favorite parts was doing standing long jump with my husband and Will in the kitchen.  My record was four feet eleven inches.  We only measured one of Lars's jumps, seven feet two inches.  Lars and I also had some fun doing leaping lunges (side to side).  I lifted this afternoon--upper body.  Today was my first time to lift weights since we moved to Iowa.  I enjoyed it.  I also did some ab work.

I thought of a lot of fun things to say about my run and my day, but I blogging about my run isn't that high on my fun "to do" list.  Don't get me wrong.  I love this blog site that Sasha has put together and I love typing in my miles each day.  Lately, however, I have been giving my attention during Will's nap time or bed time to Christmas sewing projects, studying the New Testament for my Bible study group, studying Preach My Gospel for my other study group, preparing my Primary lesson for Sunday, Family History, and reading--Did I tell you guys I read Pride and Prejudice for the first time?  I finished it about a week ago.  So many fun things to do and so little time!

I was thinking about what I posted yesterday on the blog.  I know I must have come across as a blog snob.  I promise that's not what I ment.  I was just trying to say that I am trying not to spend so much time blogging and posting comments.  I am trying to spend that time doing other things.

Yesterday's eight seemed a lot shorter than today's six.  I think that's because I had someone to run with during four of the miles.

I tweak a nerve yesterday.  My poor right hip.  It never gets a break.

To answer everyone's comments from yesterday.

I did enjoy P&P.  My two favorite parts were 1) Lizzy visiting Premberly (Darcy's home and grounds) and thinking that Darcy won't be there and then he is!  And how he is so, so nice to her. 2) Lizzy's visit to her friend Catherine's home and how she runs into Dacry again and 3) (I know I just said two, but it's a good book) When Darcy keeps coming over with Jane's future husband (I can't remember his name) and Mrs. Bennett is so frustrated and confused about why Darcy keeps coming and appologizes to Lizzy for sending her on walks with him so Jane and her fiancee can be alone.

Michelle, I don't know what I am doing in terms of running right now.  I was planning on running six yesterday, but the weather was so nice and I met the girl I see doing sit ups, push ups, and running on the stadium stairs near the track.  Seriously, I had seen this girl every Monday if I go to the track.  She tucks her legs in under the bleachers and does straight up sit ups and side sit ups.  I ended up running with her for a mile.  Her name is Rachel.  I hope to see her in two weeks when I run there again.

Sarah, we will definitely call you on your birthday, so Will can sing to you.

I took Jade on a tempo run with Will and me.  It didn't turn out like I planned.  I hope I am not pushing Jade too much.  I told her we don't ever have to do a tempo run again.  She said I could do whatever I want because she was there to have someone to run with.  It just goes to show how nice Jade is.

Here's how the fast miles played out.

2:05--I thought we would average about 2:15, so I was surprised with this first quarter.

2:12--More of what I expected, however, I noticed Jade's labored breathing.

2:27--We were slowing down.  Jade encouraged me to go ahead.

I stepped it up to a 2:08 for the forth quarter.  By the fifth quarter, I was breathing pretty hard.  My miles were 8:50 and 8:04. 

Will enjoyed the run.  He was examining the almost empty tooth paste tube for most of the run.  Unfortunately, we lost it along the way.  I thought for sure I would hear it fall.  And I kept checking to see if Will still had it.  We must have lost it in the last mile when I stopped paying attention to the tooth paste.

Tomorrow we are off to Boise for Thanksgiving!  Packing and the up coming plane ride have been on my mind.  I hope I have enough toys and snacks for Will.

So I thought I'd just run 4 today.  After I ran the first quarter, I wanted to turn around and go home.  The wind was fierce!  The wind chill was 24 degrees.  I can't believe that the wind can knock the temperature down twelve degrees.  And it's only November!

I kept running (obviously) and enjoyed it.  (Hence, I ran six instead of four.)  At one point when I was running down hill, the wind was so strong I felt like I was running up hill.  The CRAZY wind!

Will slept most of the run.

Yesterday, I did an ab work out with my sister.  Today we did 56 lunges.  I feel sore already.  Not a good omen for the next couple of days, especially with the three hour car ride and the five hour flight tomorrow.

Oh... and I am pleased to report we did not litter yesterday.  The tooth paste tube was in the bottom basket of the jogging stroller.

Jade, Will, and I tried a new route.  It was a nice change.  The route starts with a big hill, but in general, not too hilly.  I am excited to try it again when we get back from Boise.

I ran over to the high school and ran twenty times around the track.  I timed a few miles.  I wasn't trying to do a tempo run, but wanted to keep it brisk.  Here are my mile splits.

9:29

9:07

9:08

8:55

 It was hard to get going at first, but I didn't mind.

I went to the track again. I haven't made much time for trying to figure out running routes here, but I'm enjoying reading, visiting with family, and helping out where I can at my in-laws. I've even worked on Will's Christmas stocking a few times.  Vacationing is fun.

I miss the jogging stroller.  There have been a number of times I've wanted to take Will out for a run.  (Will's a great running partner.)  However, the smaller stroller is easier for traveling.

I ran on the treadmill.  I forgot how boring treadmills are.  I changed my pace every two minutes and watch the movie, Sweet Home Alabama.  It helped to pass the time.

I ran on the treadmill again.

Saturday, we go back home. I am excited to return to normal life. I look forward to working on Christmas presents and writing Christmas cards. Hopefully, I can get them done before December 16, so I can get them in the mail in time. I think my excitement to get home will help me endure the forever long plane ride and car ride. Overall, I think the plane ride back will go better because 1) I'll know more of what to expect when flying with a sixteen month old and 2) we'll have tail wind.

I ran with my husband today!  It was fun.  I forget how explosive he is--a great sprinter.  We did about 10 strides.  I doubt they were official strides.  They varied in distance 50 meters to 100 meters.  Then I ran another 2 miles.

Will and I ran the first two miles with Jade.  I was pretty tired and Will wasn't his-usual-patient-self.  I found a stick for him which helped for a while.  We made it to the University's track, so we could add on a mile and see if Rachel was there.  She was.  And she was doing 100 meters of lunges backwards!  Rachel said backward lunges are more intense.

Rachel is a gal I see every Monday if Will and I go to the track.  I officially met her two weeks ago.  I think I mented her ab work out on the blog.

I don't remember being so cold.  And I ran through the winter last year!  Iowa must be the coldest place on Earth!  (I know that's not true, but I thought I was tough.)

Right before Will and I headed out the door, I checked the weather channel again.  The temperature had dropped six degrees and the wind had increased during the prior forty-five minutes.  I was worried about Will.  The wind chill was 11 degrees.  At the first sign of his discomfort, I was heading back.

Will did great.  He even fell asleep!  I was miserable, but all I could do was run back home.  The wind started to increase about half way through.  My nose felt funny--maybe a bit numb?  Under my beanie, I knew my ears were bright red.  Heading down hill, with about a mile and a half left, the wind picked up even more.  Like two weeks ago, I felt like I was running up hill, but I was actually running down hill.  I automatically hunched over the stroller more.  I kept telling myself, you don't have to run when it's 11 degrees again!  The whole while, Will slept on.

Eleven hours later, I am thinking I under dressed.  I needed a wind-breaker of some kind and some thermals.  I'll probably try it again.  I must be crazy.

It was warmer this morning.  Will and I ran with Jade.  Jade and I made plans to start running in the afternoons starting Monday.

Just did lunges and abs today.  The wind chill was sixteen degrees when Will and I normally go for our run.  My husband wasn't excited about Will going in the jogging stroller.  I am grateful for him.  He keeps my running insanity in check.  It's good to keep Will warm.

I don't remember why Will and I didn't go out after his nap.

My husband was able to watch Will while I went running with Jade.  The temperature was 20 degrees with winds 19 mph.  The wind chill was 5 degrees.  I learned my lesson on Tuesday and dressed with a few more layers and a wind breaker.  I'll have to look into Maria's and Michelle's ski mask suggestion.

The run went well.  I felt great.

My mom always said, "Rain before 7, done by 11."

Well, the freezing rain missed the 7 am deadline, so it "iced" all day.  Seriously this freezing rain is something else.  It's kind of like snow.  It layers the ground in white; it makes the roads slippery.  But, when it hits your face, it's like tons of sharp, metal tooth picks.  It HURTS!  (I gained this experience by taking the trash to the dumpster.)

I could have run today, but I didn't corrindate with my husband, Lars.  I set up a run with a friend this morning.  I forgot to tell Lars about it and he ended having a group meeting at the same time.  If I had told Lars what I had set up on Wednesday, I would have gotten in my freezing rain run. 

Oh well.  Next week will be better.  I hope the new afternoon run time will work out well for Will and me.  I did lift today.  I did shoulders, biceps, triceps, back, abs, and lots of lunges.

I am grateful for all the comments from Tuesday.  I've been sewing every evening for a couple hours trying to make headway on Christmas presents.  I've made progress, but I'm not finished yet.  So, I imagine my blogging will continue to be sporadic.  Happy December everyone!

Will and I ran the first three with Jade.  Well, we skated the first three miles together.  Pretty much everything was still ice from the freezing rain Saturday.  In fact, church was cancelled yesterday because of all the ice.

Twice Jade and I had to stop and lift Will and the jogging stroller:  the first time was over a frozen mountain of ice blocking the sidewalk at an intersection and the other was over a huge fallen tree.  At the beginning of the run we had to stop and start a lot because shoveled ice blocked the sidewalk.  In the middle of the run we decided to run a loop, instead of an out and back course.  We made our decision based on all the mounds of ice we had to stop and climb over with the jogging stroller.  But, I don't know if it was the best decision because 1) we ran into the fallen tree.  2) going down one of the hills, for a moment I didn't know if I was going to stop.  I could even see Will and I sliding down into the large ditch.  3) going up one of the hills, for a moment I didn't know if I was going to make it up the hill.  Will and I were sliding backward.  I am very grateful Jade was there.

For the next three miles, Will and I chose a different route.  A better plowed route.  Will and I still had some excitement.  Going down another hill, I stopped moving my legs and our momentum carried us.  I decided to move to the grass which was still ice, but my weight broke through the ice enough to have some grip.

I don't think I should look into professional ice skating.

Jade and I went skating again.  There were more stretches of running today than yesterday.  I ran the last mile by myself and was able to get up to a good clip.  Tonight it's suppse to snow on top of all the ice.

Will stayed home with his dad.  He woke up today with a temperature and a runny nose.

I bundled Will more than I ever have.  The temperature was 25 degrees and the wind chill was 18.  I felt very slow and very achey, but we made it.  Will enjoyed the ride.

It snowed the entire run.  Traction wasn't a problem.  Everyonce and a while I knocked the snow off of the jogging stroller's rain cover, so Will could see.  Actually, I don't think he could see much because the cover was fogging up.  We heard lots of sirens and saw a few cars sliding.  On the way back home, I could barely see our tracks.

Will and I got out just before sunset.  I've heard that Iowa winters are suppose to make you tougher, but I am feeling weaker and weaker.  I feel down right slow.

I went out by myself I was thinking about doing a tempo run, but I didn't have the energy.  I haven't gotten much sleep lately.  I'm still trying to get Christmas presents finished.  Sew. Sew. Sew.  I am having a lot of fun working on them.  And I am pretty sure I am getting a cold.

Tired of the sidewalk routes, I decided to run on the trail.  It wasn't plowed at all, but I was ready for a change of scenery.  Running through the woods was beautiful.  The river was amazing with the unfrozen water snaking through the ice--just like a painting.  I didn't enjoy the winter wonderland as much as I normally would.  Running on the snow is hard work.  Most of the other tracks I saw was that from cross country skies.

The temperature was 14 degrees and the wind chill was 3 degrees.  I was so glad when the run was over.

I definitely made my goal of 26 miles this week.  I don't feel very confident that I can get in 30 miles every week to get 120 a month.  I am going to adjust my goal from 120 miles per month for December, January, and February to 100 miles per month.  I don't feel as stressed with 100 miles per month.  And it will be tons more mileage than last winter when I ran between 14 and 18 miles a week.

Jade and I went shuffling today.  There was more freezing rain.  I think it rained for nine hours straight.  Anyway, here's what's on the ground now--ice, snow, and another layer of ice.  And tonight there is a 60 percent chance it will snow.  The wettness doesn't seem to be stopping.

The run was nice and easy which was good because that cold I talked about Saturday is in full force right now.

There is still plenty of ice.  Will and I only had to slow down to a walk twice because we were turning a corner.  Other than that we ran/rolled right through it.  Or maybe I should say over it.

The trees are so beautiful.  Each branch is encased in a half inch of ice and they sparkle especially at night.  Automatic Christmas lights.

I ran the first three with Jade.  My legs rejoiced when I threw some strides in during the last half of my run.  They were so happy to go a different speed.

It was warmer today, in the low 30's.

It was snowing when I woke up and it continued until about 7 pm.  So, on the ground there is a layer of ice, a layer of snow, a layer of ice, and now another layer of snow.  During my run, the footing was pretty tricky.  Sometimes it was slick and other times it was okay.  There were a lot of footprints in the latest layer of ice that were hidden by the snow.  I am grateful I don't have weak ankles.

This run was mentally tough.  I finished my run in a sour mood.  Usually, running--even when running very hard--makes me feel good.  Lately, it feels more like a battle.  And I feel like I am getting weaker.  I did have a good run on Thursday.  I am going to try to figure out why I'm not enoying my runs as much.  I plan on running 25 miles next week.

I ran the first three miles with Jade.  During the second three, I sped up and did four strides.  I felt great and enjoyed the run.

Lars said he likes finals week.  You can stay home and study.  Then you go to campus, take a test for a couple of hours, and then you get to go home again.  I think he's also enjoying a break from his group.  They did at least twenty case studies together.

Jade, Will, and I ran up to the neighborhood.  Another enjoyable run.  We talked about games we made up as kids.  I really like Jade and her sister's game, "Oops! Sorry, Miss."  They would stand on opposite sides of the room and take turns calling out a body part.  Whatever body part was named like elbows, they had to walk across the room with their elbows sticking out.  Of course, they bumped into each other with the named body part and said, "Oops! Sorry, Miss."  They also played hide the magazine.

Will was a bit uncomfortable during the second half, but still great company to have around.

We were out of sugar and I wanted to make pumpkin bread for some friends for Christmas.  So Will and I ran to the store.  Actually, we ran past the store and grabbed the sugar on the way home.  The temperature was 26 degrees and the wind chill was 19.  It didn't feel that cold.  The day before the temperature was the same, but today felt warmer.  I think that's because we went today at 2:30 and yesterday we didn't get out the door until almost 4 pm.

Will and I put a few pennies in the Salvation Army bucket.  (Actually, Will had fallen asleep for his second nap of the day.)  The bell ringer said thank you and after I got the groceries situated in the jogging stroller's basket--I bought grapes, too--the bell ringer then said, "She off!"  It made me smile.  I am still smiling thinking about it.

Jade and I went exploring today.  We ran a new route which is more of a loop.  It was nice to have a change of scenery.  We talked about learning how to drive a manual.  Jade stalled straight through three green lights one time during the first week of driving a stick shift.  And I cried the first three times I tried to learn.  But, we both overcame the fear of the manual transmission.

I forgot some big news.  I found a marked trail that gets plowed!!  I ran on it today and yesterday.  It starts a mile and a half from my apartment.  A mile farther away than the other trail, but I'll take it!

Tomorrow we're driving to Columbus.  I am not going to run, but I'll still be able to make it to 25.  I've been sewing again this week, but mostly helping a couple friends with their Christmas projects.  It's been a sewing party at my home for the past three nights.  Jade wanted to make a brown pillow case for the body pillow she bought her sister-in-law. She had sewed once in eighth grade and I didn't have a pattern, but it turned out excellent--very professional. Mary Lynn, another friend, and I made Christmas towels that said Joy, Noel, and Jolly for family members. I am giving my towels to my mom. I am excited that this year I'll be there when she unwraps my present.

We made it to Ohio safe and sound.  I am grateful we were a day ahead of the snow.  Will and I ran around my parents neighborhood.  The temperature was 40 degrees and felt great!  Will fell asleep during the second mile and I met up with my husband during the fourth mile.  I enjoyed finishing my run with him.  Every once and a while, Lars would sprint ahead and then jog back.  We kept a pretty quick pace.

Because the weather was beautiful, my dad and I went golfing.  Neither one of us played real well. The best part was just being out together playing a game with we both love.

I went to the YMCA today. I ran on the treadmill. I kept running faster because the faster I ran the quicker it'd be over. I ran one mile at an 8:34 pace. The following mile I ran a 9:10 pace. Then the next quarter I ran at a 8 minute per mile pace. I followed that with an 8:34 quarter.

I ran through my parents’ neighborhood.  During the last mile and a half, I thought about what I'd like to serve at Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas dinner.  For Thanksgiving, I was thinking turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, sweet potatoes, peas, rolls, and a chocolate cream pie and a pumpkin or apple pie.  For Christmas Eve dinner, I think I will keep with my parents' tradition of a Mexican Christmas Eve dinner: a red and a green enchilada casserole, burritos and/or tacos depending on how many people there are.  Or we could do the green and red casseroles with beans and rice.  I haven't figured out Christmas dinner yet.  Maybe a ham?

Will and I ran 1.3 mile loop four times in my parents' neighborhood.  Half way through the first lap--I am going to call each time on the loop a lap--I saw another lady running the same loop we were.  Will and I picked up the pace to catch up with her.  Her name is Amy.  She has four kids, a five year old, a three year old, and eleven month old twins.  It was fun to talk to her for a lap.  Amy was running 3 miles so Will and I finished the last two laps by ourselves.

This morning Will and I ran the 1.3 loop four times again.  Will fell asleep.  I tried to keep the pace up beat, but I was pretty tired.  My mind kept evaluating the houses and trying to figure out which ones were my favorite.

I ran the 1.3 loop through my parents' neighborhood four times again.  My sister, Margaret, joined me on the first two laps.  She and her family arrived today from Texas.  Family is so fun.

Can you believe I made my goal of running at least 100 miles in December?  With today and Monday, I'll make it to 110 miles!  Shoot!  I could have made it to 120.  That's easy to say now.  Since it's currently 35 degrees here in Columbus and 10 degrees back home in Iowa!!!  (I am loving the warmer weather.)  However, for this winter, I am going to stick to 100 miles per month.

I threw up before I went running, during my run, and five more times after my run.  Probably, I shouldn't have gone running, but my sister from Houston was in Columbus at my parents' house too and I love running with her.  I wasn't going to miss an opportunity to run with her.