Update

Wow, what happened to Jenni-isms???!!!

I've never gone this long without blogging...and, ironically, there is SO much more to blog about! I've been busy and loving every minute of my life. I truly enjoy having a blog as a journal that reflects my thoughts, goals, ups/downs, and every day life. I'm going to do my best to get back to my most favorite blog ever and ALL of my fans :)

Here is what has been a-happenin' in the land of Jenni-isms:

1) I went for a run last night...first time since OCTOBER, people. It was exhilarating! I sometimes forget about my serious love affair with the pavement. But each time I step back out there I am reminded instantly of why I run. Mike the Trainer and I have worked out a nice new schedule of 1 hour sessions every Tuesday and Thursday. This leaves the rest of the week to work on cardio. I'm still determined to take up swimming eventually, but for now I plan to run at least 3 times a week, hit up the elliptical at the gym or a spin class a few times a week. Have I mentioned that I've lost 18 pounds since moving to Dallas??!! Yay, me!

2) I am falling hopelessly and happily in love with my handsome man. Since our very first phone conversation (he called me Nov 18) we have been together. It will be 2 months this week but it feels like longer...and that's a good thing. We are definitely in a "relationship" and it's the real deal, folks. We are committed to each other, to being open and honest, to enjoying every moment we're given, and we are hopeful for our future together. It's more than I ever thought it could be...and keeps getting better. He is my sweet boyfriend and I couldn't be more happy and proud.

3) I've been cooking up a storm. I mean a STORM. I hate that I haven't documented my adventures because the recipes I have tried are amazing and turned out great! I suddenly found myself wanting to cook for my handsome man all the time and have turned somewhat DOMESTIC. *shock* What?! Domestic?? Yup. And I'm loving every second of it! I love to cook and see satisfaction on the faces of those who experience my creations. I have a long way to go before I can claim to be a great cook (like Mom and my late Grandma Ruby). But I'm very comfortable in the kitchen (well, Handsome Man's kitchen as he has a great big house). The last month or so I've made Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Spinach and Bacon Mac 'n Cheese, Blue Ribbon Chili, Classic Pot Roast, Cinnamon Chocolate Bread, Shiner Bread, and Cookie Dough Truffles. Handsome Man is very content, indeed (and lucky!)

4) I get to see my besties in a month!! Karen, one of my oldest and dearest friends, is getting married on Feb 5! She is marrying her best friend and the love of her life, Jeff. Now, even though I have yet to meet this man, I have no doubt they will live happily ever after. I've never seen or heard Karen this way before...her relationship with Jeff has transformed her into an even more beautiful, loving, thoughtful person and she literally glows with love. I can't wait to introduce Handsome Man to Karen and Katie. It will be our first road trip as a couple and will be a great time!

5) Last Saturday I started a new volunteer gig. I researched some local animal shelters and decided to apply as a volunteer with the Frisco Humane Society (Handsome Man lives in Frisco and I LOVE, LOVE the town...plus I spend most of my weekends there). I met up with Angie from FHS at the Frisco Petsmart where they have the adoptions every weekend. They need help with the cat side of things and I am more than okay with that. I spent 2 hours there learning how to become an Adoption Counselor. Basically I try to help those looking to adopt a cat by finding out what they are looking for, what their living arrangements are, and let them interact with the kitties. It's actually quite a big responsibility as I decide ultimately who gets to adopt. You can only ask so many questions and use intuition, but you always hope and pray that an animal ends up in a happy, loving home. There are so many success stories and I am bound and determined to do everything I can for those furry felines! :) I've also been asked to help out with one of their computer databases to help keep things organized. I definitely feel this is where I am supposed to be and will dedicate as much time as possible to this cause.

6) Um, did I mention that I finally graduated???? Yup, back in December I became an official graduate of the University of Oklahoma. It was pretty awesome. I drove up to Norman to pick up my cap and gown, walked around campus, and reveled in the feeling of being a Sooner. Mom and Dad attended the small ceremony for my college and we celebrated with lunch afterward. I am considering grad school and have signed up to take the GRE, but we'll see...for now I'm enjoying my well-deserved free time.

8) College football season is over :( But I am starting to get more into the NFL so at least I get to stretch out football for a bit longer. I can't wait until next season because I plan to attend more Sooner games. And it's even more fun because now I am dating a Texas Tech Raider who will go to the games with me (I like to remind him constantly that we kicked their hineys last season 45-7).

7) For the Christmas holiday we drove down to The Woodlands to stay with my brother and his family. They couldn't make it to my graduation but they had a big congrats sign and an awesome cake for me! Plus, the kids all made me special cards and I felt like the most loved Aunt ever. We had a great holiday and I just adore my family. Oh, and I actually won the poker tournament for the first time EVER in the history of family game night. Vegas, here I come...

So that's it in a very condensed nutshell. 2011 has welcomed me with open arms and I am embracing every moment! Here are some pics of the last few months...

Mom and me, graduation day



My cake and homemade cards

Mom, me, Dad at their Christmas party



Me & Handsome Man at my company Christmas party

Me & Handsome Man celebrating his birthday

Aunt Jenni and her Rugrats

 

3-2-1...Happy New Year!!!



Running Humor

I'll be hitting up a new trail tonight for an easy 3-miler. Actually, it's not a NEW trail but I'll be running a different leg. I've mostly stayed within the Valley View/Park Central area but tonight I'm driving to a spot further south for some new scenery. I think the entire trail is about 7 miles. That would be a great distance but it's basically impossible to run the whole thing (if I park my car up north then run to White Rock Lake, how will I get back????). Maybe someday I'll be able to run 14 miles :)

I had a 5:30 training session this morning...it's only 9:00 now and I am already tired! But I'm enjoying a cup of Tazo Awake tea and it's yummy.

Tomorrow will bring another 5:30 am session...it's certainly tough for me to get up early but the gym is practically deserted and quiet so it's nice. Plus, I've found that I eat more mindfully on days I work out early. AND it leaves plenty of room for evening runs, especially as Fall weather heads this way!

Tunes & Trails

Best. Running. Playlist. Ever.

I went for my Monday run last night after being so sick last week...it was tough to say the least. I was glad to get out and enjoy the local trails, but it is still too dang hot to enjoy a nice evening run. Plus I was constantly clearing my throat of crud! I only managed 2 miles but at least I'm back out there. Sometimes a good playlist is all it takes to get me through a tiring run. Since moving to Dallas I've started listening to Top 40 songs...and this is not usually my bag. But I'll admit I'm liking a lot of today's new pop music. It's what I like to refer to as "feel good" music and what's not to like about that??!!

Tonight is my first workout with Mike in 10 days! I'm actually looking forward to it...it's the first time I've ever really felt comfortable and welcome in a gym.

Happy Tuesday! ♥

The blushing runner

Not really...it's just HOT!

Technically, it "cooled" off to a mere 93 degrees this afternoon. I thought I would take advantage of the weather and run outside. I love my new neighborhood and there are some very pretty trails. But they were hot. And humid.

Check out my face...it matches my shirt!! :)

Nothing a Green Monster can't fix! YUM

Lace 'em up

The passion, the bug, the need, the craving...it's back!! The temps may be sweltering, but I've got the treadmill and the shade of the trails. I'm always amazed at how good it feels to run and how my body just falls back into the groove. I just need to figure out a way to post my Garmin training center information in my "Training" tab (mainly so I can be accountable for my progress!). Time to update the iPod and get moving!

"I always loved running... it was something you could do by yourself, and under your own power. You could go in any direction, fast or slow as you wanted, fighting the wind if you felt like it, seeking out new sights just on the strength of your feet and the courage of your lungs. "

Jesse Owens

Track & Field Gold Medalist, 1936

A pretty good Sunday

Today there was some of this:

(splashed around Mom and Dad's pool late morning until early afternoon--managed to get too much sun regardless of the applied sun block)

some of this:

(ran 4 miles on the treadmill; post-run protein shake to refuel)

and finally, some of this:

(a HUGE salad with spinach, romaine, 1/2 avocado, 1 mini cucumber, cherub tomatoes, and turkey bacon)

Now I am relaxing on the couch and trying to catch up on roughly 15 episodes of House...last semester's studying kept my DVR very full of my favorite shows. Happy Sunday!!

You know you're a runner when...

* You're first thought when you look at the weekly weather forecast is, "When can I fit in my runs?"
(In Oklahoma--when will it NOT be 98 degrees or 50-mph winds??)

* Your watch face is bigger than your iPod.
(But I could not LIVE without my Garmin 305!)

* You have more running clothes than regular clothes in the laundry pile.
(And it's stinkier...ew) 

* You no longer make fun of fanny packers because your running belt looks similar to one.
(All the cool kids wear running belts)

* The salespeople at your local running shop know you by name.

(Hi, Brooke and James at Elite Feet in Edmond!!)

* You know how to take a cup of water from a race water stop without choking or spilling it.

(I learned this the hard way)

* At least one of your website usernames or email addresses has the word "run" or "runner" in it.

(Does "ezjogger" count??)

* You own more pairs of running socks than dress socks.

(And I lose more running socks in the "Dryer Abyss" than any other form of clothing)

* Your Facebook updates frequently involve running.

(Frequently? Daily. I know all of my friends are sick of hearing about it!!)

* When you hear PR you automatically think "personal record" and not "public relations."

(What the heck is public relations??)

* You have running clothes and an extra pair of running shoes in your car, "just in case."

(You never know when you'll want to just GO.)

* Your holiday wish list can be fulfilled at any running or sporting goods store.

(Santa? This one is for you...)

* You get excited when the new Runner's World comes in the mail.

(Honestly. I read it cover-to-cover in one sitting)

* You always have your next race on the calendar.

(And on my blog)

* Your runs are sometimes longer than your commute to work or school.

(Longest run so far: 6 miles. Commute to work round trip: <5 miles)

* Your body aches but you're thinking about that next run.

(We runners are gluttons for punishment)

* You've lost a toenail and you tell people, "It's not that bad."

(And I've stopped getting pedicures. I'm not into running for the glamour)

* You apply medical tape or lube to various parts of your body and it seems perfectly normal.
(I've become an expert at strategically applying tape, moleskin, and body glide)

* You are confident you could escape from Houdini's straight jacket because it is probably easier than getting out of a sweaty running bra.
(This one speaks for itself...)

I may not run a 7-minute mile or even a 10-minute mile...but I am A RUNNER. I may not run marathons or average 30 miles a week...but I am A RUNNER.

I am A RUNNER because I say I am.

And no one can tell me I'm not.

The Heat Cometh

The weather is beautiful here but the heat...the heat is not beautiful. Yesterday I couldn't believe how pretty it was and how great I felt for the first 10 minutes of my run after work. I went through a different neighborhood this time, trying to avoid hills (conclusion: this is impossible in my town) After those first fun 10 minutes, the heat and blazing sun started to get to me. I was planning on a nice 4 mile run but ONE mile in I started to get worried. Digestive issues decided they wanted to join the party as usual so that was not far from my mind. Then I realized my new Amphipod bottle was not sufficient enough as far as water capacity. I am a runner who is thirsty throughout the entire run--anything over 2 miles. I drink water all day and I still need it when I run. I bought a 12-oz bottle because it is small and convenient but it wasn't enough. I was so hot and tired that I actually had to stop and walk up some of the hills. I am not a fan of stopping, only because it makes it harder to get going again, PLUS it means I will not reach my destination any faster. As I walked I desperately looked around at houses for a hose in order to steal some much-needed water. But I didn't see any that were easily accessible. And I couldn't believe no one had their sprinklers on!!! I hate when I get so hot that I feel a little nervous about heat stroke and stomach issues and feeling faint. It's only May!! I know I should run in the morning but I just love running in the evening.

So, around mile 3 I was on the last stretch towards home and it was, of course, uphill and facing the sun. Wait, what is that I see up ahead? Alas, it is a sprinkler!! I literally sprinted up the hill. I uncapped my Amphipod and filled it up, not caring if the homeowners saw me or not. Surely they would understand that a red-faced, sweaty chick is justified in taking some of their water. Then I stood in the sprinkler's path and I cannot tell you how refreshing that water felt on my body. I started off again to finish the run, happy and feeling a little cooled off. But this only lasted for about 3 minutes...the damn sun is just too bright!! I managed 3.75 but it felt like so much more than that. This heat just makes running no fun and that is disappointing to me. I love running outside and not in the dark! But as summer heads our way I am going to have to change up my schedule. Boo.

A change in plans

The last few weeks have been quiet around here! My poor blog has been neglected and thrown on the back burner. Why you ask? Sleep, study, eat, work, run, repeat. That's where you'll find me!

An announcement: I will not be running the OKC Memorial Half Marathon as originally planned. I didn't technically start my training early enough and honestly I just wasn't feeling it. A few weeks ago (Good Friday to be exact) I made the tough decision to push back my 1/2 marathon goal. It really was a tough decision...the 2 weeks before I started to get so nervous, doubting myself during every run. I found that I wasn't enjoying it anymore and was merely training. On some training runs I would hit 4 miles and think "There is no way I can finish 13.1 miles in a month." A lot of self-doubt and self-sabotage talk going on inside this head of mine. But once I made the decision to wait a few more months, I began to ENJOY my running again!! It was like a weight had lifted off of my shoulders. I guess part of me thought I would be letting everyone down or that some might say "Well, I didn't even think you COULD run 13.1 anyway..." (not that anyone in my life would say that to me). I made a decision for myself and it was a smart one. I immediately signed up for a 1/2 in September and notified the OKC Memorial staff that I would be running the 5K instead of the 1/2 on 4/25. So, I'm not giving up on my 1/2 marathon goal...just giving it a few more months!

Whew! I feel better now...I have been running purely for hobby and fun lately and I love it. I'm excited about running the 5K on Sunday because it's such a great cause. This past Monday marked the 15th anniversary of the OKC bombing...on Sunday, I'll be running for those who cannot.

The Zany Life

I haven't posted in a while...but here is the scoop:

I must have been insane to think that working full-time, taking a full load of classes at OU, and training for my first 1/2 marathon were all a good idea...AT THE SAME TIME. My days have been hectic to say the least. But I am doing my best to stay ahead of the game.

Training has been so-so this week...I took off EIGHT days of running and finally hit the pavement last night (a few days of feeling ill + an overwhelming amount of homework nearly knocked me out of kilter). I was tired and those days off really hurt my progress. I could barely manage 2.5 miles. Plus the Oklahoma winds were up to 35-40 mph and it was crazy! Spring is definitely here and the temps have been a lot warmer. So, I'm still trudging along...hoping for at least a 6-miler this weekend.

The big race is in 23 days!!!!!!

St. Paddy's Great Race of the Great Plains

Date: 3/13/2010
Time: 10:15 am
Location: Lake Hefner
Temp: 53 degrees, sunny and windyRoute: 8K, flat course along the lake

The weather was beautiful and it was a fun Saturday morning. The above picture was my view the entire time. For some reason this race started later than most but I certainly didn't mind since I was able to sleep in a bit! I had never run along Lake Hefner before and it was so pretty. There are trails all along the lake and I always see people running, walking the dog, biking, etc. Well, I am already planning to run there more often, especially as the weather warms up. Okay, on to the race. Because it was a St. Paddy's race, everyone was encouraged to wear green and there was even a contest for those dressed as a leprechaun (the sponsors gave away iPods to the top 3 costumes). I wore a fun shirt with lots of Irish-saying buttons, some green beads, and a big green ribbon in my hair. I had gotten there early and had plenty of time to warm up. I walked and jogged a good 10 minutes before start time. Finally we all gathered behind the start line...there were maybe 250 people there? It wasn't a lot and thankfully we were not clustered. I was able to start running and not worry about weaving my way through anyone. Although, maybe I didn't have to weave through anyone because they were way ahead of me. :)
I felt a little like I was starting too fast, but found another gal about my size and we stayed together, pacing each other for about the first 2 miles. I had my music on, kept in touch with my breathing, and just enjoyed the view. Unfortunately, we looped around and could see the front of the pack (i.e. all the fast people) coming back our way as they looped around. I just don't like those kinds of routes because it makes me feel even slower. But I kept smiling and kept running. By mile 2 I was a little tired...I'm not a morning runner and don't have all that much energy in the AM. This was one of those runs were a lot of mental "talking" got me through. I had my play list going in my ears, but honestly, I don't remember much of the music. I thought a lot about the upcoming half-marathon and tried not to psych myself out. I was constantly surprised at my pace and kept thinking "slow down, or you'll never push through the end." But I really never slowed down.

Here's where I start to dislike this particular race. Though it was a gorgeous route, the organization of the race was poor. There were water stops up to about mile 2-2 1/2. THEN I NEVER SAW ANOTHER ONE. Come on, I don't even start to get thirsty until about mile 3 or 4. But nothing. I was really tired and thirsty. I struggled during the last mile and had NO energy. I was having to THINK about running and concentrate on my form. Normally I don't have to think about this as I am just out there enjoying the run. But I'm pretty sure not eating enough beforehand and not eating a very good dinner the night before (pop tarts, anyone?) certainly hindered my performance. I crossed the finish line and was so happy to PR this race. BUT I wanted some water ASAP. Some guy was hounding me for my chip (which I didn't have for this race) and I asked him where the water was. Normally, someone hands you a bottle of water after you finish a race. Not only did no one offer me water at the finish line, but there was NO water left anywhere. I asked THREE "official race people" and they acted like it was no big deal but there wasn't any water.

Granted, I was not a fast finisher and most of the 'elite' runners were already eating pizza and drinking green beer. They were all waiting on the trophy ceremony when I crossed the finish line, dying of thirst. I was so angry and tired at that point that I cursed under my breath, shook my head in disgust, and promptly walked to my car to leave. Not having water for EVERY race finisher is a no-no. I paid my $20 for the race and that should include water...at least a Dixie cup! All in all, it was a neat race location and a personal best for me. But other than that I was not impressed.

Here is a frightening post-race picture...

Official Garmin data:
5.02 miles
59: 48

Splits:
Mile 1 - 11:42
Mile 2 - 11:29
Mile 3 - 11:45
Mile 4 - 12:21
Mile 5 - 12:09

Kickin' A and taking names

After 5 days off, I am back to the world of running. THANK GOD.

I enjoyed a beautiful 5-mile run last night. I discovered a new trail and despite one long hill, it was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!! Other than a side stitch I felt NO pain in my right leg whatsoever. I was stoked!! I was only going to do about 3 miles, but I just kept going because I felt great. Here is the playlist I listened to jammed out during my run. Yes, my tastes are...eclectic. And no, you didn't misread...that says "Xanadu" :)

(you may have to click on the image to see it--not sure why it's so small)

A trip to the Mojo Store

Lately I've been feeling a little down about my running progress...I've been getting really nervous about the 1/2 marathon. Running has been tougher the last few weeks, maybe from the cold weather and the damn hills in this town. I realized last week that I was running too fast...this 1/2 marathon training is more about slowly increasing my distance and NOT improving my pace just yet (good advice from one of my online running buddies, Jason). I've also been feeling more aches and pains than usual. My stride has begun to feel awkward and I know my form is in need of improvement. All of these things have affected me mentally. I started feeling defeated, worn out, and a little lost.

Last night I hit the trail for a 4-miler. I tried out a new area and ran through some pretty neighborhoods. The weather was in the 40's and clear. I was wearing my new running tights and they are awesome! The run went really well and seemed to fly by...I'm guessing because I was paying attention to my route and not how tired I was. I did notice a pain in my right leg, between my shin bone and my calf muscle. I have also noticed lately that I seem to be curling my toes inside my running shoes. So after my run I decided to stop by a specialty running store in my neighborhood. It's called Elite Feet and they are THE BEST. I can remember not wanting to go inside when I needed new shoes a year ago...I was overweight and felt so embarrassed. Ridiculous, I know. But I finally went in last night just to ask if perhaps I needed a smaller size shoe (since I've lost a lot of weight I figured my feet may have gotten smaller). Well, I ended up getting a full foot analysis! It was really cool--they know what they are doing. The gal messed around with my feet/toes, assessed my old shoes and the tread wear patterns, and she watched me walk. Turns out my shoes totally sucked!! She put on a few different pairs of shoes and had me run outside of the store to see how they felt. It was so nice to have someone wait on me like that, using a shoe horn and everything! :) And the shoes were so comfortable. I ended up buying a pair that I would have never picked out for myself!! You may remember when I boasted of some new running shoes not long ago...well, those will now be walking/everyday shoes. But these babies will be on my feet every time I run...Mizuno Wave Creation.

I discovered I have not been stretching correctly either. I told her I suffer from shin splints. And she proceeded to explain things to me. The pain in my right leg is what she called a "true shin splint." Most people confuse the pain in the front part of the leg as being a shin splint. But a true shin splint causes pain on the front inside of the shin bone, which is what I've been feeling lately. So when I feel pain on the front part of my leg, it means I am simply not stretching my calf muscle enough. But the new pain between the calf and shin bone is a shin splint. She showed me how to properly tape up my right foot. As soon as I stood up I couldn't believe what a difference 2 little pieces of tape could make! Here is the lovely picture...oh, and the lack of a pedicure is just part of being a runner! And if you're curious about my peculiar pinky toe, read this.

I can't wait for a my run tonight even though it's only 2 miles. I'm excited again about running and my training. I seem to have gotten my mojo back!

Ice Bath (Attempt 1)

FAIL.

After my 5 mile run Sunday and 3.5 mile run last night, my legs were feeling pretty sore. I know that icing after a run is a good idea to help with recovery...I often use frozen veggies to help with my shin splints. And I know that cool water (versus hot) is better for soothing muscles. According to Runnersworld.com,

"cold water constricts blood vessels and decreases metabolic activity, which reduces swelling and tissue breakdown. Once the skin is no longer in contact with the cold source, the underlying tissues warm up, causing a return of faster blood flow, which helps return the byproducts of cellular breakdown to the lymph system for efficient recycling by the body."

Many moons ago (when I still lived with my parents in my hometown), I would go for a long run and, due to the Texas heat and humidity, I would literally walk right into the pool after my run. Of course, I took off my shoes and headphones first :). I noticed even then how cool water made my legs feel soothed and less achy. But that was then. And that was in Houston weather.

The temp yesterday during my run was 38 degrees with a cold, dry headwind. My nose was running like crazy (per usual) and I've been sneezing ever since. Needless to say, I was NOT in the mood for an ice bath last night. But after reading up on it, I learned that a hot shower or bath is really not the best for thing for my muscles (hot water increases blood flow, muscles become even more inflamed). So I prepared for my first ice bath. I put on a comfy sweatshirt and some bike shorts, made a hot cup of tea, and headed to the bathroom. I began to fill up the tub with cold tap only (this time of year I don't NEED ice with how cold our water is). I set one foot in there and said, "No way!" I gulped down my tea, stripped out of my clothes, and jumped into a steaming shower. Elite athletes would call me a wimp. But it took a 10 minute hot shower PLUS sitting in a hot bath for 5 minutes just to get warm again. I popped some Advil and slept like a baby for 8 hours straight...but my legs don't feel all that great today.

Check back with me after the first hot run of the spring/summer season...I'll be more ready to take the plunge then.

A Runner in Training: Lunch

Sure, it may look a little plain and boring. But this lunch is fantastic. I've had it everyday this week. Lunch and breakfast are my 2 biggest meals and I try to pack in as much protein and as many veggies as possible. I have a salad like this at least 4 times during the workweek. I just buy a huge tub of the organic spring mix and keep it in the fridge at work. I also keep my favorite dressing at the office AND at home (Newman's Lite Balsamic). The cherub tomatoes are of course a must.

3 oz grilled chicken breast (I cheated--it's frozen--see below)
1 1/2 c broccoli (also frozen--see below)
2 c mixed salad greens
2 T salad dressing
1 c tomatoes

Chicken
1 pkg Tyson frozen grilled chicken breasts
(~3 oz each)
These are really, really good. Only 110 cals and all you have to do is heat them up in the microwave. They taste great and save so much time!!

Broccoli
1 pkg frozen broccoli florets
1 T Penzey's Tuscan Sunset seasoning (a kitchen staple)
1/2 t or so of kosher salt

Cook broccoli according to package directions. Drain and mix with salt and seasoning. Simple. Yum.This will keep me very full until about 3 PM when I'll eat some fruit (to prepare for my training after work--today: 3.5 miles + weights). I'll post breakfast tomorrow! Try to contain your excitement...


[I apologize in advance for my blog posts over the next 2 months...right now my life is all about work, school, and training. I rarely blog about work (but it's awesome) and school is going great. Running, training, food, body weight, bodily functions while training...these are the hot topics. Welcome to my exciting world!]

Frigid 5-Miler: Race Recap

Date: 2.13.10
Time: 9:00 am
Location: Mitch Park, Edmond, OK
Temp: 36 degrees
Route: Hilly, 5-mile trail

[Warning: Race recaps may contain language that is not suitable for normal readers. I will be graphic when I want and may describe situations which will gross some of you out. But it's a runner's life...and a runner with a spastic colon no less. You've been warned.]

This race kicks off the 2010 race season. Unfortunately for me, last week was a bad one...I was in a funk and feeling blah. I didn't train at all except for one short 2.25 mile run on Wednesday. I was also not eating well nor was I drinking my usual amount of water. Hey, we all have those weeks, right? So I really wasn't prepared for the first race of the year: Edmond's Frigid Five. The most I've run in the last month has been 4 miles. The most I've EVER run in a race was a 5k. Needless to say this was a new challenge for me.

I created a new playlist on Friday night and filled it with songs that were upbeat and happy (mostly 80's and 90's stuff). I had maybe half of a banana Saturday morning and headed out to the race. I wore the long-sleeved event t-shirt and some capri dri-wick pants. I also wore gloves that I knew I would toss on the trail eventually (be prepared and wear things you won't miss if you need to toss them during the race--although technically you could backtrack after the race to pick them up). Anyway, it was chilly at first but the morning was beautiful. The sun was actually shining for the first time since we had such bad weather. I positioned myself in the middle of the pack as there were no official pace signs. This is a friendly, small-town neighborhood race. The beginning of any race is annoying crazy because a huge pack of runners/walkers is trying to get ahead and get moving. I couldn't really tell where the starting line was and just started my Garmin. It is very hard not to run very fast with all of these other runners taking off...for me, it's impossible to stay within my usual pace. Perhaps this is a good thing...it kept me moving faster than I normally would have been running. But I was worried about going so much faster...how would I last at this pace??!! Finally, around the 1/2 mile mark, I found my stride, although it was still a good minute faster than normal. I didn't mind people passing me...I knew this wasn't a real 'race' for me and was more about finishing. At the 1 mile mark I chucked my gloves because my hands were plenty warm. I would eventually see many a pair of gloves randomly tossed on the trail. Mitch Park is very hilly, and I wonder how much that affected my overall performance. I don't usually take hills lightly...I want to dig in and get to the top. Unfortunately, that makes for a higher heart rate and more exhaustion in the long run, but I did it anyway. So the music in my ear is great, I'm warmed up and feeling good, smiling at the people stationed at each mile marker calling out the times (which were always 1 minute slower than what my Garmin said, oh well). The only thing that kind of sucked was the weaving of the course...there were several spots where the slowpokes (me) had to pass the sprinters (read: normals). This only brought home just how much further I had to go. But I pretty much kept a smile on my face and tried to stay positive (despite the plethora of spit piles on the ground everywhere I looked--gross). At 25 minutes in I heard the cheers of those who ACTUALLY CROSSED THE FINISH LINE ALREADY. I couldn't believe it! Those psychos people kept a 5-min-mile pace the whole time. Oh, well, I had to remind myself again that this was fun and all about finishing. At mile 3 I grabbed a cup of water and had about 2 sips. I am not skilled at drinking and running and almost choked. Plus, it made me nauseous. But I was happy to know that I was past the half-way point. I was entering into newer territory though, as I usually average about 3-3.5 miles a run during the week. At this point I am remembering the last time I ran Mitch Park trails (maybe last summer) and just how many more hills there were towards the end. But there was a nice flat part for awhile so I just concentrated on moving. I did stop twice during this race...for about a total of 10 seconds. I realized that for me, stopping to walk actually makes it harder to get going again and sometimes even causes pain. Anyhoo, when I hit mile 4 I started to really feel it. Despite the lone half-banana earlier, things were starting to 'brew' if you know what I mean. Come to think of it, there weren't many Port-o-Potties on this trail. So despite the gurgling I knew I wasn't in any real potty danger. I had come to the last hilly part of the trail...this is where the longer, gradual hill was on the course (I HATE gradual hills...they take forever). I was pretty happy with my time at this point and was trying to keep pace with a gal ahead of me who had the same build. She was hilarious and actually stopped to pose for one of the race cameras! At around 4.5 or so we crossed the exit to the park--and people who had already finished the race AND picked up their goodies were leaving! But I smiled and kept going, knowing I was almost there. I was hurting at this point. But I kept on keeping on and could hear the cheers of onlookers as well as runners who were finished and headed back to their cars. I didn't pick up the pace a whole lot during that last stretch to the finish. I'm not sure if I was just tired or what. When I crossed the finish line and saw my time, I was pretty stoked. I had finished the race!! I grabbed a water bottle someone was handing me and walked around to cool off. I noticed just how many people were still behind me and I'll admit I was pretty happy I wasn't last! :) Then I just cooled down as I walked to my car. My nose was running like crazy and I was JUST starting to feel a little chafing going on under my arms (that's never happened to me before--but I have read about it). I was pretty proud of myself for getting up on a Saturday morning and running 5 miles.

Stats/Things I Learned

According to my Garmin:
Mile 1: 12:45
Mile 2: 12:49
Mile 3: 13:57
Mile 4: 13:43
Mile 5: 13:37

Official Chip Time: 1:03:27

1) If I'm going to run more than 4 miles, I'll definitely need some water and fuel. I recently bought some Gu gels but have yet to try them out. But at mile 4 I was definitely feeling weak. The problem is I tend to get nauseous and break out into a cold sweat so I am curious whether or not I'll be able to stomach the energy gels/chews.

2) I need to start using the Body Glide I bought. Chafing is not fun and if I had run any further than 5 miles I would have been hurting.

3) I am a slow runner. But that's okay! Even in middle school and high school when I was in great shape (and young) I never did more than a 9-10 minute mile. I am a distance runner at heart and, even though my pace will improve as I lose the last of my weight, I'll never be a fast runner.

4) After finishing a 5-mile race, I couldn't FATHOM running another 8 miles (aka, the Half). BUT, as a good running friend told me (Jason, aka Jbob), I can't think about the half right now. The next distance is 6 miles...then 7 miles...and so on. And as another running friend reminded me (Chris), a year ago I couldn't imagine running FIVE miles.

5) I could not believe how sore my legs were on Sunday. I did not stretch or ice like I should have (must have been the high of feeling so good). I learned my lesson!


My next race is 3/6/10 and will be a 10k (6.2 miles). I am back in training, guzzling my water, eating right, and feeling good. I WILL DO THIS!!

12-week Half-marathon training

Today is the official start to my half-marathon training. I'm following a (modified) novice schedule designed by Hal Higdon. I am still going to follow this schedule. I CAN DO THIS! I'm also going to keep up with my scheduled weight training, yoga, and indoor cycling. Unfortunately, with this horrible ice and snow I will most likely do a lot of training on the dreadmill. No matter how much music I listen to, how many DVR'd shows I watch, or how many movies I watch while on the treadmill, it.is.so.boring. I'm usually exhausted when I get off because I've stepped up the pace so fast just to get done!

I am determined to follow this schedule despite rain, sleet, snow, bad moods, bad hair days, pity parties, and just plain laziness.

Say it with me: "Go Jenni, go Jenni, go Jenni..."

New Shooz!

Mama got a new pair of running shoes! Check these babies out...

Yes, they are super-mega bright pink! But that's actually the point...these are special edition Susan G. Komen New Balance shoes. They are very girly and so purty. The breast cancer ribbon is detailed all along the inside and on the tongue. And the laces are really cute, kind of a braided style.

As you can see from my lovely pile of shoes (I rotate between 2-3 pairs of shoes at a time to make them last longer), I am an Asics girl.

But these special New Balance were too cool to pass up! I ran 3 miles in them tonight and they were great!

90 days and counting...

As of today I have 90 days until the OKC Memorial 1/2 marathon. Admittedly, I am getting nervous. The thought of running for more than 2 hours straight just baffles me! But the main goal of a first 1/2 marathon attempt is to FINISH. I am faithfully following my training schedule. Right now I run 4 days a week, cycle twice a week, and lift weights twice a week. I'll get there eventually!! Here is the route for the 1/2 marathon...yikes!

The Fartlek

*giggles*

This is an actual word! It's Swedish for "speed play" and has forever changed my world of running.

According to my sources, a fartlek is "simply sprinting and jogging off and on during a run." I completed my first fartlek workout last Saturday as part of my half-marathon training. I thought for sure I could do the advanced workout, since I've been steadily running since May and I am up to a long run of 5 miles. I was wrong.

I used the treadmill since it's easier to keep track of pace, distance, and time. (Thank goodness I lugged that thing in from the garage last week--this freezing weather has dampened my outside running plans!!)

Let me be frank. I am not, nor have I ever been, a fast runner. My happy pace on the treadmill is between 4.0-4.5 mph. That is not fast at all. I am a distance runner and technically consider myself more of a "jogger" than anything. So I figured once-a-week fartlek workouts would be beneficial to my overall progress as a runner.

I ended up doing the beginner level (well, my homemade version of it). I have since worked out a beginner, intermediate, and advanced fartlek schedule to follow throughout the next 6 months. Even though it feels like torture, it's nice to change up my routine once a week.

So, here is my Fartlek--Beginner workout:


I'll be posting later about any my progress...