Run Jac Run 🏃🏻‍♀️

Week 50 (of 2022!)

WEEK 6 – half way there!

HOW IS THERE 2 WEEKS LEFT OF 2022? WHERE DID THE TIME GO????

How are you feeling?? Like I need to kick it into HIGH GEAR and get all my runs, strength workouts and mobility in. But I also need to remember my priorities. Running doesn’t take a higher spot than family, not that I ever think that but I try so hard to get my running in. It totally bums me out when I have to skip, especially long runs! I need that time on my feet for my muscles to get used to the time. I honestly don’t know if I will be able to do sub- 1:55… I am super unsure. Hoping the excitement of the race will carry me along!

What are you reading? – “The Most Likely Club” and “Not a Happy Family” – – I don’t recommend either of these. They weren’t super great, I finished them to see how they ended up all in all, it wasn’t like “wow! I’m so glad I read those” so yeah, save yourself some hours and don’t read em! Lol

What this weather forecast doesn’t show…. TORNADO POSSIBLITY Tuesday and Wednesday! Annnnd it got WAY colder Sat, Sun and Mon!

Sometimes I wish I had the ability to just run, with zero guilt. I wish the weather cooperated and didn’t send electrical storms! Maybe we moved to the wrong state – ha! Really, if anyone knows how to balance life more please let me know!

Monday – (12.12.22)REST DAY
Actual – I GOT MY TREADMILL! welcome home, NordicTrack C900! It was DANG heavy! We had to maneuver it out of the person’s home (ugh!!) and lift it up onto the truck. Thank goodness for Jesse and how he was able to carry 75% of it! We both were exhausted after that and my arms were HURTING. We were both trying so hard to lift with our legs and not our backs, how awful would it be if we threw out our backs in unison! Also, I am officially done Christmas shopping for the littles! Still have to get Jesse’s things though. And one thing for both of us “from Santa.” One year I made the mistake of not getting myself something from Santa and our son said “must’ve been because you were naughty this year” lol!! Learned my lesson! I might just rewrap something I have and gift it to myself.

Hendrix got his motorized scooter/motorcycle (early), a nerf gun, telescope and magic 8 ball (which will be a stocking stuffer) and then I was going to get him some candy and balloons or something for stocking stuffer. Hazel is getting a book with animal sounds, a stacking type toy and little window propeller things to keep her busy. I want them to have such magical Christmas’ but also I don’t want it to be all about the presents. I tried finding things that were more outside activities to promote that. Hazel is still too young which is good- I think I spent about $25 on all her presents combined lol. In the next couple months Hendrix will have his birthday but we normally do an experience rather than a ton of gifts.

Tuesday – (12.13.22) Plan: Speed drills + Strength Training
Actual: I read my training calendar wrong and thought today was mobility and thus did not pack the right clothes for speed drills ! So… What’s a girl to do but treat herself to Indian food she’s been craving for months?!?

Wednesday – (12.14.22) Plan: Mobility
Actual: The South was swept with tornados, wind, rain, lightning & thunder. Work took precedence and I was unable to take a lunch. Then the storms were quickly approaching, knocking out internet and I left early. Needless to say, I did not get the make up run I wanted to do or really anything else. But, we were spared from tornados! Most of the night I had bad cramps and wasn’t feeling too great. We ended up going to sleep around 9pm and slept soundly.

Thursday – (12.15.22) Plan: (6) 800m REPEATS + Core
Actual: Looking at my repeats I was doing great on pace, but it was a BIG effort. I am still not feeling superb and ended up quitting halfway through. Also, my right knee was hurting when I was pushing pace and my hips are feeling extra tight.

I finished off with 2 miles at an easy pace. and that was much nicer on my knee, but my hip was twinging. For having a poop start, I am pretty happy with my mileage today. It was also really nice getting outside and running. I have way too much anxiety going into work “late” and just doing the run in the morning. lol. I wish I would just do it. But the thought of coming in after 9am freaks me out haha. Total of 4.41 mi!

Happy Holidays! My work got some yummy cookies delivered and since there isn’t enough for everyone in the office the boss just handed them to me and said “take them home to your family!” And I looked at him like, “hellllll yeaaaah, thank you!” Looks like that is my Christmas bonus! hah

At the end of the night I did my core work and some stretching!

Friday – (12.16.22) Plan: 40min interval + incline run (this one looks like a CHALLENGING ONE!)
Actual: During this run I realized I must re-awaken my DETERMINATION! I have a big goal and I can’t get there if I don’t put in the work! This workout was TOUGH, started with speed then incline running and then sprints! I went all the way up 9.5mph! I think that is the fastest I have run on a treadmill… ever. I only had to hold it for one minute, but wow. 4 mi total

this picture doesn’t do the dripping sweat justice!

Night time walk with River 🐕 (suuuuper blurry lol)

Saturday – (12.17.22) REST
Actual: I woke up around 6:30ish (on my own) and had a whole hour to myself to enjoy coffee on my own before Hazel woke up! (aaaamaaazing) once we woke up we hung out, had a bagel and took River on a nice long walk in the crispy morning air. Jesse cleaned up the storage area where the treadmill is and got it all set up for me!

Then we had more snacks and got ready for the day. Ran to the store to get the birthday present and went to the party. Afterwards hazel slept and I enjoyed a romantic comedy!

Sunday – (12.18.22) Plan: (3) 2 mile repeats
Actual: if you scroll back up to the forecasted weather that I clipped at the beginning of the week, it didn’t call for freeze warnings. Like this weather is calling for “let’s all get sick” because it was nice in the 60s and then BOOM 💥 it’s freezing! Take out the fleece pants (in the morning) We woke up to things frozen, ice on our roof and everything lol. Needless to say fuzzy socks and the heater came on today! And everyone had snotty noses. (uuughhhhh)

Around noon I laced up my shoes and hopped on the treadmill. While this run could have very well been done outside I’ve been dying to try out the treadmill!! And mentally 2 mi repeats outside felt like it would be impossible lol. I enjoyed watching “Wednesday” even though this mill is rather loud! But I love it. And the distance is spot on (as you can see I had the Garmin on my ankle to see if it was accurate!)

I had a meandering friend waiting for me to finish my run so we could blow bubbles and play and he reluctantly took a picture with me. As he gets older he doesn’t always like his picture taken!

I know some HABITS I will continue with is READING, I am so proud I have read over 20 books this year! WIIIILD! I think I will also be in search of finding balance, making strength training a priority, STRETCHING, running and movement daily. Maybe even try for 1000 hours outside! I also want to practice saying YES more! Putting down my phone and having more conversations with my kids and Jesse and exploring more outside.

Do you make any resolutions/goals/habits you want to take on for the new year?

If you do, what are they?

Week 49 (of 2022)

Entering week 5 of half marathon training!!

How are you feeling? I am extremely excited with how training is going! If you would have asked me 4 weeks ago if I felt even remotely ready for a half marathon I would have said ABSOLUTELY NOT. In face, before our 1200m repeat run I was explaining to my friend that I didn’t think I would be able to even complete the half marathon at all let alone sub 2 hours. But, now my hope and faith is building. I am trusting the process and I am excited. I know there will be some runs I might suck at, its part of the course, but I hope I can continue to have fun during this cycle!

What are you reading/listening to? I just got done with Might Moe by Rachel Swaby. Super good book about a girl from Canada and of course.. running! I am really contemplating listening to Let Your Mind Run while I do my half marathon race! Or maybe take a page from the book and just let my mind run. But I swear those positive affirmations from that book have helped a lot! I just finished (end of the week) “In Five Years” by Rebecca Serle – tear jerker!

What are you looking forward to? I am looking forward to spending more time with my parents this week! I also am so happy that River is able to get multiple walks a day with my dad who I swear wants to adopt him! lol. OH, River also got a much needed bath last weekend ! You aren’t supposed to bathe Labradors that often – some people only do it 1x a year! He gets a little more than that lol.

I found: Creation, Gratitude, Breakthrough, Purpose – love that!!

Monday – (12.5.22) Plan: Mobility
Actual: I CONSTANTLY underestimate the need for mobility, it’s like if ANY workout is less than 30 minutes and doesn’t include sweat it automatically takes a back seat. BUUUTTTT it is so needed! I have to keep telling myself this and reminding myself that even these types of workouts, although short, are needed! So, I completed a great mobility workout even though I didn’t sweat at all and it was so incredibly short. My hips and muscles are happy I did it.

Tuesday – (12.6.22) Plan: 5mi run + core
Actual: This was supposed to be a tempo run, or working my way up to tempo and I was going to increase speed every .25mi but my body had other ideas! Indigestion issues got the best of me and I had to stop halfway through. 😦 (2.5mi total @ 10:30/mi pace average)
When I got home my son was having a rough afternoon and frustrated was not even close to the right word. I took him aside and we discussed a plan to get the frustration out. For me and him it is usually to MOVE our bodies. Although it was dark out, (we don’t have street lamps around us, so it’s DARK DARK) I put him in my Noxgear light up vest and we went out for a couple laps. The fresh air, movement and light talk helped immensely and his mood was changed! Exactly what I wanted to see!

Ok, friends – as we all know, or will soon come to know, running is so much more than the physical ability to run. Mentally and emotionally if you are going through something, the workouts can be hard!! So, two of the big reasons I wasn’t able to complete the tempo run was 1. my stomach was in horrible condition 2. it was because of DRAMA between family and my friend. Luckily Tuesday night we were able to talk it all out, but the past few days of stress and sadness really ate away at me. Now that we got everything out in the open I am hoping the rest of the week and workouts will go more smoothly!

Wednesday – (12.7.22) Plan: 2.5mi EZ (to finish the run from yesterday)+ Core + Strength
Actual: Again… tummy issues! It stopped me at 2 mi, but I am ok with that. I listened to “In Five Years” which is not a running related book but seems to be a cute rom-com-esque book – love that genre! I am hoping I can get better control of my tummy issues so it doesn’t stop me. Then I did core and strength. My favorite exercise was the eccentric step downs!

Thursday morning check in – glutes and quads are a little sore from strength yesterday! Love the sore feeling… and semi excited for the speed work today. Didn’t sleep super great last night but we did enjoy a funny (albeit not kid appropriate) late night movie! It had my mom and me rolling on the ground laughing though.

Thursday – (12.8.22) Plan: 12!!!! Hill Repeats
Actual: Maybe it was Hazel waking up at 12:30am and waking me up, maybe it was that as soon as I got to the gym my phone wouldn’t play ANYTHINGGGGGG, or maybe it was because someone was on “my” treadmill ORRRR maybe my body is screaming for a break- a change? something!? Either way, the repeats were an utter bust… I tried going at the recommended 7% incline and 7.5mph. I thought if it was only 60 second bursts I would be fine. I was wrong. My legs rebelled, my breathing was labored from the second sprint, I was incredibly furious with my phone skipping and repeating and beeping at me. I tried to restart it but it didn’t help. By about 18 minutes into the run I gave up. I couldn’t hang, I felt completely defeated. I asked myself what I learned from “Let Your Mind Run” and the positive ways you need to speak to yourself. It is making me understand where I need to work on, it’s not the end of the world… and I can try again if I feel like it. Update to add – I did not feel like it- my legs were sore.. they needed rest!

feeling utterly defeated, legs heavy and hurting and pouring sweat over an 18 minute run

We made Instant Pot Chicken Nachos from Damn Delicious! Of course I forgot to take a picture, so here is the one from her website:

It was so good! I love trying these new recipes with the family here! The chicken was PERFECT!!

Friday morning update- thank goodness today is a rest day! We had a terrible night sleep, Hazel woke up every other hour it seemed like and it was poor poor sleep. So, I am TIRED! My legs are quite sore, which makes sense as I haven’t had a rest day since Saturday.

Friday – (12.9.22) Plan: REST
Actual: complete rest! Got a couple presents for Christmas from Santa and just hung out

Saturday – (12.10.22) Plan: 3 mi aerobic run + 15 min EMOM
Actual: 3 mi with River 🖤🐕

took my mom to get our nails done! I had so much fun!

Sunday – (12.11.22) Plan: 90 min endurance run
Actual: Unfortunately the timing of everyone leaving + weather made it so that I did not get my run in! I was trying so hard to not get worked up over this. But some tears were shed.

How do you feel exiting week 5? Pretty bummed at the runs this week to be honest! They weren’t the best and I gave up a lot.

Notes – do not wear the grey running shorts for long runs – your legs will CHAFE like the dickens!!

Are you asking for anything in particular for the holidays? These are on my wish list:

Not asking for too much, I hope with all my might we can enjoy some fun activities outside! 😀

Week 48 (2022)

How do you feel entering WEEK FOUR? First off, can’t believe we are entering week four- this doesn’t seem correct! Hazel finally started sleeping and being less emotionally ANGRY by the weekend and we got in some really good naps. I am very happy with how last Friday (day after Thanksgiving) went because it allowed me to recharge and felt ready to tackle the cleaning and prep.

Are you excited? I am excited and nervous, so we have been watching the weather and there is supposed to be a storm coming in on Tuesday night with possible tornados… and then it looks like the rest of the week is good. We are planning on a little birthday celebration for the littlest dumping – HOW IS SHE NEARING ONE!?? I got her the cutest outfit.

I am still looking for…. a treadmill! I hope to get my hands on one. And we are searching for the perfect gifts for the kids. I have vetoed video games because I want them to be outside. I am trying to figure out a way to get an obstacle course on our yard! A new swing on the tree and figure out how to spend as much time outside as humanly possible. It tires out the kids and makes for healthy happy minds. Also, the past week we have been really devoted to reading – Hendrix has had trouble with reading and fallen behind, but he is now reading books to Hazel and doing about 10 minutes a night, and he is getting SO MUCH BETTER! I am so proud of him!

What are you reading? I am just now starting Might Moe- the true story of a 13 year old women’s running revolutionary. These are so inspiring and such good reads/listens I almost am worried I will go through all the books and then what will I listen to on race day?!

I OFFICIALLY signed up for the half!

weather this week:

I am hoping that Friday or Saturday we get down to Gulf Shores to explore a little.

Monday- (11.28.22) – Plan: EIGHT 400m repeats and core
Actual: Whoaaaaaaa those 400m repeats were tough and I had to dig deep. I gave up in the middle of the 5th or 6th repeat and had to collect myself. I took a little longer than a minute to recover and went down a notch in speed. I somehow got a little mixed up and lost in my repeats and I am really not sure if I did an extra one or not. Things got messy. I started with a 5 min warm up, then eased into the 400m repeats at 6.5 which felt great and easy, I think I accidentally skipped 7.0 and went straight to 7.5, 8.0, 8.2, 8.5, 8.6 – this is where I gave up with .10 left to go and walked for a couple minutes with a side stitch. Then I came back and did 8.6 again, 8.5 and hopped up to 9.0 and finished there (barely!) 3.75mi total

Tuesday- (11.29.22) – Plan: 50 min aerobic run
Actual: 50 blissful minutes completed and I watched the new “Wednesday” episode one on Netflix! I have always had a fondness for the Addams Family – it made me think I would want to dress my daughter up as Wednesday for Halloween next year! lol ~5mi today!

Wednesday – (11.30.22)- Plan: Mobility
Actual: skipped because we were doing last minute prep for family!

Thursday – (12.1.22) – Plan: 1200m repeats
Actual: I had an extra cup of coffee late Wednesday so I could stay awake to pick everyone up from the airport that it led me to get about 1 hour of sleep. I thought it would be best to just not run today and get some more rest. Instead we took a drive down the coast and saw a few towns!

Friday – (12.2.22) – Plan: REST DAY
Actual: After a little more rest we decided to tackle yesterdays workout after dropping off the oldest at school. It was in the 40’s and quite windy, perfect speed workout weather! My friend isn’t a huge runner, but she wanted to keep up and she had been training for the last few months to stick with me for 4-5 miles. She wore sweatpants and a jacket while I wore a long sleeve with a short sleeve under just in case and shorts. After our 5 minute warm up I felt like I was in perfect running attire! (notes for the possible cold in January – although this was the coldest day we had this weekend) I’m really happy with the splits that we are able to accomplish!! It felt like we were gliding and I had more left in the tank but I was also weary of my friend and her energy was not as high. She also didn’t want to carry a water bottle which I thought was a little silly lol. 4.3 mi total and so happy I did this workout outside!!

Saturday (12.3.22) – Plan: STRENGTH + birthday party!
Actual: Strength didn’t happen lol but we did enjoy the Daphne Christmas parade where Hendrix got to join and be on a pontoon and throw out candy and do a mini birthday party and also made the delicious creamy tortellini soup! Also, we took out the bb guns and shot at some cans lol!

Sunday (12.4.22) – Plan: 8mi LR
Actual: Wow! This one felt so good, I took Hazel out in the stroller for the first 3 miles and they really flew by but I knew I needed some solo time also. So, I dropped her off at home with J and ran my heart out. Listened to music, pondered life problems and then remembered I forgot fuel and bonked at 6.75 miles. I meant to bring something to eat so I could stay strong, but totally forgot! Oh well, I am still happy with my paces but I kind of wished I was a little slower on them, I just let my legs carry me and went by effort and the effort seemed like I could hold that pace forever!

Pretty even splits!! The first three miles were run with the baby and a stroller. Last 5 were solo

How do you feel exiting week 4? I’m actually really surprised with how well this week went, with really poor sleep and lots of eating LOL I hit my marks on my runs and my long run even though it was probably a little too fast felt really really good.

Total mileage: 19.75mi!

Week 47 (2022!)

Thanksgiving week, which also means J has both kids at home. I get one day off (Thanksgiving) and therefore will probably switch around Rest day that is supposed to be on Friday and make it Thursday. And 1.5 weeks left till the cavalry get here! (family)- BUT WHEN THIS IS going to be posted, only 3 days!

How are you feeling entering week 3 of training? A tiny bit defeated! Things are more than chaotic in the house and it is draining me. I am not in the best mind set, but I am trying my hardest to not let myself get discouraged. This week is a step down week on mileage so that is nice. I am reading/listening to “Let Your Mind Run” by Deena Kastor and it is inspiring. I love it!

Monday- (11.21.22)- Plan: Strength + 6mi run (from last week long run)
Actual: Now I know my thought process was totally a rookie thought, “oh I missed my run, I’ll just do it today” instead of “it’s okay, just continue on with the plan… one missed run is okay!” My goal was to run the 6mi outside, my mind needed it so much after a ehhh weekend. However, anxiety got the best of me and I couldn’t allow myself to be an hour late to work. *major eye roll* what was the best about today though, was starting the book “Let Your Mind Run” and getting to the point of speaking kindly to yourself. So, while I only got 2.5mi done out of the intended 6mi, I realized a couple things…
1. When I looked at what my easy pace was supposed to be according to my goal of sub 2 and sub 1:55 it said 5.9 and 6.2mph. But I am not quite there yet… at least just not today. With so much going on in my head, a lot is weighing me down. And this run today didn’t allow me to run that speed for long. BUT I am glad I did some, because I really needed that. And within this training cycle I will get my speed up.
2. I need to practice more gratitude
3. I need to get Indian food (I have been wanting buttered chicken for so long and have been denying myself – this needs to change!)
4. While running my mind was also consumed with the guilt of not doing the strength that was on the plan.
5. I was focused on not getting too sweaty either because I forgot a towel

Tuesday- (11.22.22) – Plan: 40 min run
Actual: 3.76mi running in 40 minutes with a .24mi cool down for a total of 45 minutes. This one, oddly enough, was hard to stay slow. I think that mentally I am disappointed in myself for not doing my 6mi long run and therefore still feel the need to make up for it. So, going into this workout I was constantly telling myself that this is supposed to be an easy run and no sprints to try to make it to 4mi. I finished the movie “Falling for Christmas” (finally!!) and it was super hilarious.

Tuesday thoughts – I think I am going to get a treadmill! Which I am both excited and anxious for. We are going to be trying to turn part of the storage area (separate garage area) into it. Which is what I have wanted to do all along! I found a Nordictrack on Facebook Marketplace and we get to pick it up Thursday morning. This will be a great little addition so I can run, well anyone… apparently Hendrix is excited to run on it too! 😀 Also, little Hazel has been an absolute monster lately and crying a lot. I think she might be popping out a molar soon. For her first SEVEN teeth, front teeth top and bottom she didn’t cry at all. But now, it is just she’s uncomfortable so I am going to get her soooomething to help! Whiskey?? lol.

Wednesday- (11.23.22) – Plan: Mobility
Actual: partially done at work! My body is definitely screaming for it, but I ended up skipping lunch (out of pure guilt) and left early from work to get home and hang out with the family before it got dark.

Thursday- (11.24.22) – Plan: HAPPY THANKSGIVING!! After looking more into the treadmill, I assumed ALL nordictracks were “running treadmills” but that just isn’t the case. It had a 2.5HP motor which is fine, but ultimately I want to be able to do long runs on it and according to some review site I found it is more suited for light jogging and walking. And not for long long periods of time. Would I be doing a lot of LONG LONG runs, probably not.. but I do want to run HARD and use the speed function which didn’t seem like it was suited for it. So I decided to pass on that and look for something else. If you have any recommendations, I will take them! Although trying not to spend a lot of money.
So, anyway I did a little gardening and taming of the flowerbeds, put the mattresses back in the trailer, cleaned up and organized the playroom! Took River on a couple walks ANNNNNDDD did many many nerf gun wars with Hendrix. We also escaped and went to the park for a couple hours and played! Needless to say, we were all very exhausted by 8pm and the kids passed out and I did shortly after.

Friday- (11.25.22)- Plan: 35 min speed + strength
Actual: I lacked some motivation but I knew I had to do it. At first I was going to do my 7 mi long run and in the middle of the run do this speed work. I thought that would be great and kinda hit two birds with one stone. OR I could do the 7 mi long run and then the 35 min afterwards if I felt up to it. And I almost did that. In fact I felt okay enough to do that, but I knew my body would not feel good in the next couple days. so instead, I hunkered down and did an easy 7 mi run, splitting it up 5 miles first then bathroom break and then 2 miles. With about 10min cool down. The bosses weren’t at work today, so I decided I would just do a half day and treat myself to the second half with hopefully no guilt. 7 mi done and I felt NO rush to shower and get home. Instead I stretched and foam rolled for 20 minutes, then sat in the sauna for a few minutes and took a long hot shower. I definitely didn’t want to get out! I enjoyed my protein shake and now I’m sitting writing this write up STILL at the gym. I know I need some actual food so I don’t go home ravenous and eat crap. But I also don’t know what I want to eat. Since I’ve got plenty of time (it is only 3:20 right now and I technically work till 5ish, I’m good on time) so here I sit on a chair at the gym just hanging out.

Friday night – spent all night stretching and doing mobility work! I was definitely feeling the heaviness from the run. Glad I didn’t do the extra 35 min speed work

Saturday- (11.26.22) – Plan: 7mi LR
Actual: REST DAY! The boys enthusiastically asked for donuts and how could I say no??

We did our chores and getting the house more ready (little by little!) And then had an amazing nerf gun fight! J even joined in and did a surprise attack and it was super fun. Wish I had a drone flying over us to get footage! After lots of playing and running around, hazel and I took an hour and a half nap! We woke up around 5pm and it was pitch black 🤣 we were both so confused because we slept so hard. It also rained so dang hard after work woke up our driveway and yard turned into a pond!! The coverts and drains around us were flowing like a wild river too! It was nuts

Sunday – (11.27.22) – Plan: REST DAY!
Actual: in the morning there were absolutely NO puddles, ponds or rivers in our yard. Good thing for good unblocked drains! Lol. the kids + me + pup went on the 2 mile walk and hazel slept for a good hour. Hendrix swung on the vine he found from last week and we did a mini photoshoot.

Total mileage 13.26 mi

What am I grateful? My legs carrying me the distances I want to go, a house to sleep in, a heater to keep the house warm, the food in our fridge and pantry, the smiles of my littles, the kiss from my partner, hot coffee in the morning, the ability to make it to work and provide for my family, not having to stress too much about money and definitely the ability to pay all of our bills without forfeiting something. My drive to and from work that allows me to listen to books, listen to music and have some time to myself.

Week 46 (2022)

How am I feeling for week 2 of Half Marathon Training? Excited! I am very happy I hit my mileage for the week and the cold weather is coming in so I am hoping to do runs outside more. Which means visiting University of South Alabama and running around the trails and campus! It is supposed to rain a couple days this week, so we shall see if weather will allow me to run those.

Goals: Still get outside in the morning/evening with River and kids for fresh air. Take a few 10 minute walking breaks at work so that I get that fresh air. Put away the 3 loads of laundry sitting on the guest bed!

What am I excited about: Hungry Runner Girl (Janae) is ALWAYS raving about Core Power for after her runs and I have not been able to find this dang drink! Low and behold it is at the gas station next to us! I found it yesterday but it was almost $5 for ONE DRINK. Crazy!!! But I got one to try and if I like it I am going to order in bulk! YAYYYYYY Also I am sooooo excited to bundle up! But I NEED TO GET THE BABY SOME BUNDLING CLOTHES ASAP! I wish there was actually stuff IN STORES and I didn’t have to order it!

Are you nervous about anything? I am nervous about the 20mi week this week! I need to stay up on stretching and mobility to make sure I don’t injure myself

What are you watching? We devoured “Something Bit Me” on Disney + it is so insane! All kinds of huge predatory animals that have attacked someone out in the wild… doing what I LIKE TO DO! hike, run, bike.. and then BOOOOOOM! Bear attack, mountain lion, hippo! Whatever, it is so insane and such a good show!

Monday – (11.14.22) – Plan: Warm up, 5- 800m repeats, core
Actual: OK, so warm up went awesome, I actually really enjoyed the muscle activation exercises today! It was a definite flow… I however forgot to look at *my* chart I made for the paces and just went like hmm… I’ll just do what I think, which was waaaaay too conservative and I need to remember to look at the goals I have set out for myself. Which makes me think I am going to create a new lock screen so I can always see my goals! Ok, so I did 5 minutes of warm up, 5 – 800m repeats with 2 min walk breaks in between. The speeds started at 6.0, 6.2, 6.6, 6.8, 7.2. The 800’s went by so fast and only by 7.2 did I feel like I was actually trying?? If that makes sense? It still felt good though. Now that I am back at my desk I see that for YASSO 800’s I should be going at 7.3-7.4mph (8:10 min/mi pace) for the sub 2 goal and 8.0mph (7:50 min/mi) for the sub 1:55 pace! According to this calculator. Anywho.. I completed 4.10 miles today and did core work! I had to skip the reverse nordic rocks because they really hurt my knees! I can’t do the rock back it makes me feel like my knees will split. But other than that I completed the core work!

I also tried the Core Power milkshake(26g) protein Chocolate Flavor – I imagine that is what chocolate milk tastes like?? Funnily, I have never liked chocolate milk. In fact I might have tried it once in my whole life and that was more than 25 years ago. HAHA! But, I really liked it – lets see how my stomach reacts to it though! I tend to not do too well with milk. Despite my love for ice cream. *** Update – it didn’t hurt my tummy (but also figured out it doesn’t have lactaid in it) and it kept me full for a really long time! Which is hard to do because whenever I start running more I out eat J and H by A LOTTTTTTT. No shame in my game lol 😂

Tuesday morning check in – last night was a doozy! Thunder and lightning storm kept River barking most of the night and then the dumpling had a fever, although she slept mostly I was a little worried about how hot she was getting. So getting very little sleep definitely sucked. I was fully prepared to take the day off but she woke up fine and felt just a little warm. J is monitoring her and I will leave work if needed. I picked up some energy drinks to get me through the day!

Tuesday – (11.15.22) – Plan: Warm up, 5mi outdoor run (hopefully!)
Actual: So, I decided against going to run outside at the college campus because it would have taken 25 minutes to get there, that is 50 minutes round trip! Couldn’t justify it, so I headed to the gym. Did a quick warm up and started my run conservatively at 5.6mph for the first mile and then increased by .1-.2 and settled into 6.0 for the majority of the run. The last 100m I raised it to 6.8 and finished in 51:55min FOR 5 MI. for a nice 10:23 min/mi average – I do feel like I am getting stronger and faster and my HR felt really good this whole run. We didn’t have enough sandwich meat for me so I got myself a Chicken Power Bowl from Taco Bell – ha! Little guilty pleasure, and must easier on the wallet than Chipotle. Also, I watched part of Falling for Christmas during my run – as I only ran for 50 minutes I still have another hour or so more to go! So far it is so horrible it is good.

Wednesday morning check in: The dumpling is still feverish but definitely a champ. She is fighting something, a little quieter than normal but she is eating and drinking great. We think it is teething… at least we hope it’s only that. For her last 7 (!) teeth she spiked a little fever and then it would pop through the next day. So, I kinda think she is fighting something else, she fell asleep at 7pm last night but would only sleep ON me, so needless to say I didn’t get the mountain of laundry put away. But that’s ok… it can wait! We slept good and hard last night so I feel rested and my legs aren’t heavy from the 5 mi run at all! I hope I don’t peak too early. This is only week 2 of training, but also week ~6 of actual strength + running so maybe my body is just getting used to the load? Steadily increasing in a smart way!? Also, only 2 weeks till my parents and best friend get here!

Wednesday – (11.16.22) – Plan: Mobility
Actual: *** uuuggghhh must get outside mooorrreeee*** the air is crisp and I haven’t made it out much at all. A short mobility work that I almost didn’t do! Today was busy, but I made it a point to get out of the office and do it! It was only about ~20 minutes and it was just enough to clear my mind. I should go on a walk outside too!!

Thursday morning thoughts – we all slept like the dead and baby girl woke up as her normal happy self! I am looking forward to lasagna (soon- hoping tonight haha) I took a look ahead at the half plan and OMG some of it is daunting, the long runs are scary! Reaching double digits!! ahhhhhh I just hope I can make the time for it. Also, while I am still reading “There is no such thing as bad weather” they were talking about “natural playgrounds” and got me thinking how WE COULD MAKE A LITTLE PLAYGROUND-ESQUE in our back yard!

Thursday – (11.17.22) – Plan: Warm up, 25 min interval speedy, Strength
Actual: done done done done! I didn’t change any of the interval paces or walk when I was doing my recovery jog in-between “speeds building up to tempo pace” I felt really comfortable at 7.0-7.2 which is awesome! 7.5 was pushing it a little for me but also I knew that once I was done with that speed it was DONE! So, I easily pushed through. Then the strength was quick and easy and I really enjoy the hollow rock presses (similar exercise).

my instagram story was also posted on the Craft Sportswear IG story! lol (wish I wasn’t so mismatched!)

Friday morning thoughts – It got very cold last night! (ok, so like only 32 or so, but still!) The littlest had the BIGGEST poop ever and immediately she was her happy self again! She slept so soundly too. I actually wore a beanie this morning! I have 1.5 weeks to get the trailer ready, house in order and presents ! My friend and I are planning our runs for when she gets here, but also I am ok with us not doing them (all) too.

Friday – (11.18.22) – Plan: Warm up, 40 min incline treadmill (some interval)
Actual: 45 min total 3.83 mi
3 part run and I must say it was challenging in the best way, but also not too challenging! Like, should I have pushed it? Idk.. I definitely had gas in the tank leftover. Anyway, part one building up speed to 7.7 (the last portion at 7.7 was a little tough, but then I was like this is the last interval of it and I get to walk for a minute, so anything is possible!) Then part two was all incline, which I had my doubts- I was reasoning with myself like… ok if I can complete 3/5 intervals then I will be excited! But I did them all!!! And then the last part was such a cake walk because we were no longer on an incline so it was a breeze. (I’ve found wearing a hat really helps with no more sweat in my eyes and then resulting in my mascara making my eyes sting! lol)

Saturday -(11.19.22) – Plan: REST
Actual: Cleaning + stuff + snuck out for a haircut and froyo

Sunday – (11.20.22) Plan: Warm up, 6 mile run
Actual: Unfortunately, the run just didn’t happen today. There was too much to do for prep for the parents coming. But I am going to get it done on Monday! We did however bundle up and go on the two mile walk before the sun set which was so perfect.

Weekly total: 15.59 mi

End of week check-in:

How are you feeling? I am pretty bummed I didn’t get my long run in, but also gotta learn to be flexible! Hopefully I can get it in on Monday and still do strength.

Did you hit your goals? Running goals were hit/miss. I unfortunately did NOT get to get outside every day and I am bummed.

What do you want to work on and improve? Getting everything in! I wish there was more time in the day to do EVERYTHING necessary and less guilt around running.

What books/podcasts are you reading/listening to? This week I listened to “You, Me, Everything” by Catherine Isaac – such a good romancy book. Also, cramming in the last bits of “There’s no such thing as bad weather”

What did you watch? Found a great documentary on Netflix called Home2Home about a young man who bicycles 20,000+ km around the world! Super fun little movie.

I did find a treadmill on FB marketplace that I am hoping I can snag up. But the lady isn’t the best communicator so I have no idea if she is holding it for me or someone else and I don’t want to bother her while she is on vacation. (she is to return on Wednesday)

Week 45 (of 2022!)

FIRST WEEK OF HALF MARATHON TRAINING!!! And the time changed! How did ya’ll fair? We filled our whole Sunday with being outside, and I was definitely exhausted and passed out by 8:30pm but then was up from 1am-3am! But I still felt somewhat refreshed when I woke up at 6:15!

How am I feeling at the beginning of the week? Pretty good… suuuuper excited to get to work on running and excited to chase these big goals I have for myself.

What are my goals? Goal A is Sub 1:55! Goal B sub 2 hour! I would be extra happy with just a sub-2, but I want to reach for the stars and push myself, so a Sub 1:55 would be extraordinary

What am I scared of? Carrying on this pace that I haven’t held in over two years for this long!

Monday 11.7.22 – Plan: Warm up, 40 min at LHR pace , core work
Actual: 40 minutes completed, 3.92mi! I am pushing my comfortable pace a little more each time because how else do you build speed? Obviously you gotta have the slow slow runs, but I felt really good and this was so needed. I went off effort and conversation pace. I did not get in my core work. I really wonder how I end up taking 1.5 hour lunch and only run for 40 dang minutes! I tried calculating it: 10 min to the gym, 5-10 min changing, 10 min warm up, 40 min work out, 5-10 min stretch, 12 min strength, 5 min shower, 10 min to get dressed, 10 min to work. —- now that I just put it all out on paper, it makes perfect sense! haha

Tuesday 11.8.22 – Plan: Strength
Actual: The face of “omg I just realized I didn’t ACTUALLY change the app settings to half marathon training and all this has gone to waste” but really it hasn’t gone to waste. But I definitely am upset I forgot to request the owner/creator of the app (Run with Meg) to change it from regular training/no race to HALF MARATHON! ahhhh! Glad I remembered today, will see what happens now!

Got in touch with the owner/creator/running coach and we realized that we forgot to switch to half marathon, but its okay! She also launched her new app “Mindful Miles” which is beautiful and allows me to see the plan much better. So, technically I should have had Monday as 3mi benchmark run and then mobility on Tuesday, so we aren’t too far off where I had Monday 40 min, Tuesday Strength… just a little rearranging and then we are on it for next week!

Wednesday 11.9.22 – Plan: (original)REST DAY (now)-warm up and 3mi (going to do day 1 today since day 3 is technically 40 minutes, but since I did that monday… well, you get it!)
Actual: Ok, soooo… my hip started twinging and felt tight! I was very unsure and was NOT looking forward to this. But, I went anyway and had a deal with myself to at least do 10 minutes and see how I felt. Annnnnd I did it, 30 min and 54 seconds (10:18/mi pace) and I found a new thriller book to listen to!

*Thursday morning thoughts – For the fourth morning in a row I laid awake at 4am unable to fall back to sleep. Now, I am not blaming time change in the way you would think… I am blaming myself partly but also the fact that I have NOT been outside. I haven’t been able to enjoy the outdoors all week, except for the Tuesday night soccer game. In the morning it is rushing to get ready and letting the dog out, then inside… then straight to the car and work, I get my runs in inside the gym. I don’t get to be outside. There is zero fresh air. Then I get home and it is already dark. It almost seems like the dark is making me feel like we “can’t” go out. But I need to change my mindset and GET OUT THERE STILL. So, anyway… as I laid in bed I hatched a plan… even if it were just for 8-10 minutes, I was going to get out there and bring the pup and Hazel. (dumpling) We ended up getting up before our alarm, made coffee and lunch. Hendrix woke up around 6:30 and we all talked for a bit. By 6:45 Haze was bundled up and strapped in the stroller, Hendrix was eating breakfast and we were out the door to let River out and went on a quick stroll. We ran around the neighborhood and got that fresh air in our lungs! Came home to Hendrix dressed, breakfast put away and all he had to do was get his lunch ready and teeth brushed which was fast fast fast! By 7:05 we headed out the door to play with airplanes and roam around. This was so needed! We got about 25 minutes of outdoor play and then by 7:30 we headed off to school. Hazel got to enjoy outdoors, I got to enjoy the outdoors and Hendrix got some energy out! Hopefully he can sit still in class. If I can do this every morning, WATCH OUT WORLD!

Thursday 11.10.22 – Plan: (original) Warm up, 4x1200m repeats (6.9-7.2mph – 9:10-8:47 pace) (now) Mobility
Actual: Skipped. A girl can only survive so much on so little sleep. I need to figure this out! Maybe more magnesium!

Friday 11.11.22 – Plan: (original)-Mobility (now) 35 min intervals
Actual: Splitting headache and no motivation, tired is an understatement. I did NOT want to go, but I also didn’t want to shop and spend unnecessary money or stay at the office because this week has been really slow. So, I did it. I did my interval workout and only had to change a couple recovery jogs to walks. I hit my paces, 7.2, 7.4 and 7.6 multiple times! 3.66 miles completed! We are also in this season of life where the dumpling is a stage 10 clinger and doesn’t want to be put down. So showers at night are near impossible which leaves me needing to do full showers at the gym. sooooooo I felt really gross today because TMI I hadn’t done a full shower in a couple days. Just rinse offs! So, I barely did the strength – and decided to get under the water. You know when you feel so grimy you are in a bad mood? yeah…. that’s what happened. While the warm water and soaping up felt amazing, I still have a terrible headache.

Saturday 11.12.22 – Plan: 4 mi + soccer game
Actual: I finally got good sleep!!! So when I woke I was finally refreshed, I fell asleep with hazel at 8pm! And slept through the night till 6am! (Amazing!!) Then after coffee I took Haze and River for a 1.5 mi walk and got ready for soccer where we got absolutely destroyed! It was really sad and kinda sucky way to end the season! But oh well. Afterwards we had donuts, so our spirits were very up! I love me a maple donut and can never say no! 😂 Around 12:30 before the wind picked up haze and I went out for the 4 mi run! It went perfect, it was tough pushing her but I ran the whole time so I’m really proud about that.

Sunday – REST – is all relative lol… We have a couple more weeks till our house is full of my family and so we are trying to make everything look great! Which included painting the fences, porch area, cleaning the trailer and little touchups around the house. We normally wouldn’t be going this gung ho but definitely want to impress my parents since they’ve never seen the place! I did a little gardening, lots of kitchen and fridge cleaning and laundry and vacuuming! After some gardening – I took a page out of the book I’m reading and the babes fell asleep in the cooler temps bundled up in her stroller outside. (I was jealous she slept so soundly!) And then we enjoyed a nap in the late afternoon after our grocery shopping trip, she did mostly.. she slept for 2 hours!! I got about 30 minutes hah. While she was enjoying the rest of her nap we ate homemade guacamole (yummmm) and Hendrix, me and River went out for a walk as the cooler temps came roaring back in and a little wind. But it was fun to enjoy and jump on crunchy leaves.

Total Mileage 14.72 mi total

Here are a couple of the sunsets I saw on my way home from work – one perk of it getting darker earlier! (trying to look on the bright side of things ha)

Exiting week one, how do I feel? Strong but definitely a little worried about managing work and gym during lunch!

The thriller book mentioned above – I devoured it in less than 2 days -IT IS SO GOOD!

November Mileage

11/1- 3.1 mi + core work

11/4- 4 mi @ 9:49/mi avg pace

11/7- 3.92 mi @ 10:15 avg. pace

11/8- strength

11/9 – 3mi @10:18 avg. pace

11/11- 3.66mi

11/12- 4 mi

11/14- 4.1 mi

11/15- 5 mi

11/17- 2.66 mi (speed intervals)

11/18 – 3.83mi

11/21 – 2.5 mi

11/22 – 3.76 mi

11/25 – 7 mi

11/28 – 3.75 mi

11/29 – 5 mi

59.22 mi for the month!

Shoe Rotation and Haul

So, for the last 4 years I have been a New Balance Girl. I wore Mizuno Waves my first year, but in the end kinda hated them and found my true love, New Balance Vongos. I’ve had 3’s, 4’s and waiting on the 5’s. Then, I decided to take an Instagram poll and see how many shoes people have (on average) in their rotation. It was a 50/50 split with 2 shoes and 3+. The 3+ shoe rotators were definitely people putting in the MILES. One friend had 16! He also explained he was flat broke after spending all his money on “trainers.” He is from across the pond.

I purchased (on sale) the Vongo 5’s…. and I am so excited! When I first got fitted 5 years ago I was told I was over-pronating and needed stability shoes. So I always went for those. Even 3 years ago when in San Diego I was refitted and told stability shoes were my go to.

However, today… it was decided I was more neutral. We will see if it works, I have 60 days to try them out.

Vongo 5’s from Amazon for $112 (usually over $150) couldn’t pass those up! This was obviously purchased before Fleet Feet told me I could do neutral. So, we will see if I keep these or not?

*Edit to add – by Oct. 10th and two runs in the Vongo 5’s I have returned them! The cushion was not supportive, nor bouncing me forward. They felt all wrong. I’m not sure what changed or if it was more mental since the Fleet Feet worker said I was a neutral shoe. Buuuuut everything changed and I disliked the fit of the Vongo 5s.

Craft Pro Endurance for $150 from Fleet Feet which are designed to propel you forward, and I definitely felt it when running! To be honest I WANTED to like to 1080’s, they were so cushiony when walking… but they felt like I was Phoebe running from Friends and the Craft’s made me feel like a gazelle. It was a springy, bouncy step and light weight! While they can be worn for everyday, they are suited for a race shoe and speed work.

I also got a pair of running socks, which were 1/2 off due to wearing them to try on shoes (yay!!) A caffeinated Maurten gel and non caf one. (had to try!) And new Goodr sunglasses, but once I took them out of the store to look at them I HATE the color on ME. (so cute though, on someone else!)

Purchased these bad boys, 1080 v11 pair from Joe’s New Balance shop online for an amazing discounted price of $74.99. My friend, Amanda, said they were a little heavier than the 12’s but still a good shoe. I tested these out and I LOVE LOVE them! The first mile I was uncertain, but I let my guard down and leaned into them. I like them a lot.

Week 44 (of 2022!)

This is the last week before half marathon training officially starts!! But also, I REALLY want to get River out running more too. He could stand to gain some endurance, but I can’t afford to do junk miles (aka extra miles that will not help me in training / overwork me)
I ready (religiously) Hungry Runner Girl’s blog. I am so in awe that she goes out every day, has 4 kids and crushes her goals. She has been constantly talking about this book “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes” by Linda Akeson McGurk and I have been waiting ever so patiently for this book to be available at the library and it finally is! I am OBSESSED. I love this idea and find it so true that we are just way more inside with technology and sitting than we are exploring outside getting fresh air. So, I am going to make more of an effort to get the kids and myself out, bundled up for the cold or stripped down for the heat and explore and play!! Also, I am rereading “Run the World” by Becky Wade. So much inspiration!

Monday – (10.31.22) – Plan: 40 min treadmill
Actual: Happy Halloween!! I chose to work through lunch and leave early to get home so we could do an early dinner and go trick or treating! Also, weirdly, the app I use, the owner hasn’t been available to show me what the plan is! But I know that it is a small biz and she just moved across country and it was a holiday. So, I am practicing patience, but will reach out to her.

Tuesday – (11.1.22) – Plan: Strength
Actual: Decided on a 5k on the treadmill nice and easy paced with some core work at the end.

Wednesday – (11.2.22) – Plan: 40 min steady
Actual: Skipped! I am just kind of feeling things out and this week seems like a good week to take another cut back before I go into half marathon training. So, I worked through lunch, but when I got home Hendrix and I worked on spelling words outside, went on a walk and even played tag in the yard. He is the type of learner that needs to be active, so I have found doing outdoor activities to help him learn his spelling words are the best, and he gets to move around. In the evening we finished reading (because that is a subject he is really not doing well in) and then watched “Marley and Me” (sobbing at the end! – also have been really into dog movies lately lol*) The dumpling slept absolutely horrendously this night and crawled around aimlessly, bumped into the wall (on her bed) and then when I brought her up to me, she could only settle when she was laying elevated on my pillow and head. So, I did not have a good night sleep! And then in the morning the neediness continued, but thank goodness for baby carriers!

I know this is only temporary and she is going through huge growths and is only coping in ways she knows how to. But, I am tired, so cracking into an energy drink today (especially because I couldn’t finish my coffee!) is necessary.

Thursday – (11.3.22) – Plan: Mobility
Actual: 37 minutes completed of mobility! Focus on hip mobility and strength so I have good running posture!

Friday – (11.4.22) – Plan: 40 min steady pace + core work
Actual: 4 mi run – tried to beat 40 minutes. BEAT IT! 39:14 min total! I started out really conservatively and warmed up at 5.5, moved up to 5.8 .5mi in and then kept increasing every .5mi or so. 6.0/6.2/6.5/6.6. I hung out around the 6.5 range for a bit before I got to mile 3.5 when I cranked it up more 6.7 / 6.9 /7.0 and was increasing every .10 to make it fun. The effort was mild, I wasn’t overexerting myself, I felt extremely strong and in control of my breathing. I am very pleasantly surprised! I felt light on my feet. (I was wearing my Crafts today) I think I ended in a little sprint at 8.0 for the last 100m. Then I stretched realllly well and did my core work.

Saturday – Soccer + rest day -I have to bring snacks and drinks for the team! We won 3-1! And then we were outside picking some weeds and I got bit by a bug and my whole body is itching, inflamed and hurting. I think it was an assassin bug, I took medicine and we are monitoring my symptoms … Also I got bit by some fire ants on my ankle and it has swelled up! Not my lucky day!

/Sunday – Rest Day – this morning I decided that today I was going to be outside! So when we woke up at 6am we had our coffee and breakfast (haze is loooooving toast and butter!) And went out on a walk with River. The 2 mile turned into a 3 mi walk in the ever growing humidity was nice and just a little sweaty. As we got home, Penny, the neighbor dog greeted us and her and River ran off frolicking in the grass and through a couple neighbors yards. Then I got changed and had a snack and took Hendrix and Hazel out to the park! After the park we stopped by Target to get a list together for our Christmas wish list. (Which included a lot of Bakugan – this weird anime transformer thing, and some Jurassic park dinosaur toys) Found some cute things too but I refrained myself from buying anything! Then we got home, made delicious cheeseburgers and went back outside for more play in the sun! (This is MY FAVORITE DAY EVER!) we took out the bows and arrows and set up a target for practice where Hendrix got to relearn and sharpen his skills! Then Hazel fell asleep while I was prepping lunch 😂 And she napped in her high chair.

**I understand probably most of you like to read blogs on your phone, so I was wondering if it is better to have the pics just under the activity paragraph or to the side?! When I edit on the computer the pictures look so nice when I put them on the side of the writing, but on the phone it looks weird and not right lol

With all This reading it is leading me to some solid goals/resolutions I want to complete next year.

1000 hours outside!
2023 miles completed- I’m trying to get bikes for me and Jesse so that 1. We can go out on family bike rides and 2. Jesse and the kids can join me when I run further distances (he doesn’t know that plan yet haha but I’m hoping it can catch on! Also I really want to get into mountain biking and hit the trails! I feel like I have this big grandiose ideas but really I’m scaredy cat once the time comes for it
GET OUTSIDE FOR AT LEAST AN HOUR A DAY – because realistically the 1000 hours is tough, but maybe doable??
I have also been devouring podcast episodes from “I’ll have another podcast” by Lindsey Hein – I feel like I am on a real good track of self improvement and learning more about running! I can’t wait to apply everything I am learning to this next training block.
*one great mantra from Theresa Hailey is “fit, fast, focused, relaxed” which I kept repeating during my Friday run.

*Dog movie recommendations!
A Dogs Purpose
Dog
The Pick of the Litter
Hachi- a dogs tale
Togo
Red Dog —- sooo good!
Eight Below
Balto
Marley and Me
Secret Life of Pets
Homeward Bound

Weekly mileage 7.1 mi running

October Mileage

10.3.22 – 3 mi speed play

10.5.22 – 3.35 mi LHR

10.7.22 – 4 mi – 2 mi EZ, 2 mi with a lil kick

10.9.22 – 2.65 mi EZ pace with stroller in the Vongo 5’s I was testing out(ugggggghhhh)
Weekly total: 13mi

10.10.22 – 3.85 mi (40 min benchmark run)

10.12.22 – 2.4mi (gave up 😦 )

10.13.22 – 3.5 mi

10.14.22 – 6.24 mi
Weekly total: 15.99 mi

10.18.22 – 2 mi
Weekly total: 2mi

10.26.22- 5.66mi speed endurance repeats

10.27.22 – 2.91 trail miles

10.28.22 – 3.37 miles

Weekly total: 11.94 mi

Monthly total: 42.93 mi (run)

Overview – While my goal was to work up to 15-20 miles, I did make it to 15 miles one week.. and then a huge setback occurred due to sickness in the family. But I feel like I haven’t lost too much so I am hoping this month was a good ramp up to beginning half marathon training!