My Bruised Foot

I ran a glorious 34 miles last week. It was nice to get back over 30 miles/week and I felt great mentally and physically. Until a weird little pain started in the pad of my left foot, near the toes.

It never fails. I'm blamed 2 factors.

1. The Treadmill
2. My Minimalist Shoes

I hadn't realized that the treadmill could be the culprit, but after talking to a rather experienced runner about the bruise like feeling, she offered up that little piece of reasoning saying that she avoids it because it really "tweaks her form".

Makes perfect sense. Always learning. Always growing. Sometimes hurting.

And the shoes. I still love them...but I ran 6 miles in them in one shot and I know better than that. My feet, ankles and all the little muscles just aren't strong enough for that yet.

So I took Tuesday and Wednesday off of running and instead cross trained today using this beauty:

I busted out 30 minutes on that and then 12 minutes of high intense intervals on the stairs. I felt a little dorky on it at first, but got into a groove after a few minutes. I liked the way it felt vs. the way I don't like how I feel on an elliptical, so I think I'll keep it in my Xtraining arsenal. I was dripping sweat and I looked beautiful when I arrived at my appointment to get my oil changed after my workout. What? You don't run errands sweaty? Psh. My trainer had an emergency and couldn't make our session today, so I did a repeat of last Wednesday's which was upper body/arms. I feel like I could see a few teeny muscle popping out while I lifted, so it was encouraging!

My foots feels WAY better today after some serious RICE-ing, so I'm going to wake up early and run some miles out on the roads...just like I like it.

I won a FREE pair of shoes from this Cute & Speedy Girl through her giveaway sponsored by Mizuno and their Mezamashii Project. Brilliant Mizuno, absolutely brilliant. Check it out.

I got a code. Shopped online. Called the special number. Consulted with a fit specialist. And BAM, my shoes are on their way.

I am stoked to try some Mizuno's!

Anyone else like the ARC trainer?

I'm Famous

Oh Hi.

Just a nice little Friday over here....I was very busy this morning "staring" in my first TV commercial. OK, I didn't star in it or anything, just had a teeny tiny part in my husband's FIRST commercial ever for his business. And of course, I felt dorky and awkward as soon as the camera hit me....how typical. But, I am very excited  for him and pretty proud too.

After the excitement died down, I ran some errands, did some work, ate a sandwich and now I'm blogging. I still have to bust out 6 miles at the gym. Yay me! (ugh)

I have a fun weekend ahead of me, so I am really excited! First up, dinner tonight with these gals:

I made my slave assemble my shiny new patio furniture last night and I must admit, it looks super sweet. Now if I could find some friends that would actually come over to sit it in I will be in business.

Part 1 of my home makeover session:

Off to get my run on. My party on. And then my sleep on.

Up North

My weekend was jam packed and fun! We headed up to the cabin for the weekend and this was one of my favorites trips so far...I packed lots of action AND relaxation into a short amount of time....

Highlights:

1. Ice Cream on Friday & Saturday. 'Nuf said.
2. 14 miles in the Pines. (5 mile run Fri + 9 mile run Sat) followed by coffee and smoothies.

3. Meals. Stuffed Chicken, Salmon Salad, Steak. Yum.
4. Friday Afternoon Nap.
5. Brother Time (and his cutie pie girlfriend, Jenna).

6. A fancy new washer/dryer at the cabin.(Seriously, super excited)

Wade woke up with a MASSIVE hangover (can't hang, cough cough) so I deemed him worthless for the day....however, I enjoyed a big breakfast with my bro, an awesome drive home (2.5 hours driving Miss Daisy) and then a nice family dinner to celebrate Father's Day. I brought the Manchild home a "refreshing salad"...per his request.

Now, I'm relaxing on the couch preparing for a busy week.

To Minimal or To Not Minimal?

That is the question I have asked myself several times in the past year or so.

The craze of minimalist running has hit the market hard. Of course, not everyone has jumped on board...but a lot of people have and let me tell ya, the people who are on that wagon, LOVE IT.

Battling through pain and injuries and shoe issues the past 6 months or so really pushed any thought of running in this type of shoe into the very back of my mind. And of course, being a newer runner, I err on the side of caution when the idea of switching things up crosses my mind. I'm still learning what works, what doesn't and how my body responds to change.

It would have been a very bad idea to try something new with what I had been dealing with earlier this year. But I'm healthy now (cross your fingers and toes please) and I've been toying with the idea. I think now that I have a solid base of running and am more in tune with my body....I can take the plunge. But honestly, who the heck could I trust to give me good information, a good shoe and some insight as a runner and not just a "salesperson"?

Enter Nathan of Tortoise & Hare Sports

Owners, Nathan and Rebecca

I had been anticipating the opening of his store for a few months and he finally got it up and running, and let me tell ya, he didn't disappoint.

I dragged Wade over there the other weekend to get some insight and an honest opinion from someone I trust and I think I got more than an just opinion....I got an education. Nathan is soft spoken, calm and immediately put me at ease while I asked question after question. He never made me feel stupid, or made me feel like he was just answering a question to hear himself talk as I have experienced in the past with running shoe shopping.

His store is modern, simple and minimalist...just like his outlook on running and shoes. He has a single treadmill and uses his iPad and a very hightech software program to analyze form, gait, and a bunch of other stuff I can't speak intelligently about. (big surprise) The store doesn't have a lot of frills or extra product floating around. He was clearly thoughtful in his selection of shoes, clothing and accessories....and I like that.

Brands I noticed and liked: Brooks (duh), Oiselle, Picky Bars, Lole (I HAVE to own the Run-up shorts someday), Garmin and many others new and old to me.

The product wall are looking much "beefier" these days.

He gave me 3 pairs to try and naturally I went for the Brooks PureCadence. Lightweight, yet offers support for someone like me who needs it.

From the Brooks Website:

"Lean construction fuses with a responsive fit in the PureCadence. For Guidance to Support runners, this shoe delivers more support through smart, streamlined features such as a wider Nav Band that’s locked in to the medial strike pod. A reinforced heel counter secures the foot and the internal PDRB helps prevent overpronation. The PureCadence gives runners who need more stability the chance to experience the feel of a natural foot strike with a lightweight, breathable shoe.

Just like our core line, we hold PureProject to the industry’s highest weartest and durability standards. Because of their lightweight construction and fewer materials, runners should generally expect shoes from the PureProject line to last approximately 250-300 miles".

I will be taking it slow and starting out with mini runs of about 1 mile and slowing building up...I'll post after my first run in them which will likely be tomorrow morning! I'm also looking forward to attending my first Good Form Running Class this weekend (Saturday) that will be taught by Olympian and Good Form Running guru, Grant Robison.

Any Phoenix friends are welcome to join me!

As you might have seen, my shiny new shoes arrived last week and I have to admit that I'm a lil nervous to try these. But very excited.


Here's to me not tripping, falling, or hurting myself.

Whoops.

In an attempt to soften the blow of my damage, I indulged Wade in his first LuluMan running tank. I think it worked, he wasn't even mad. 

God I'm brilliant.

Nosey

I innocently hopped online yesterday to check our bank account and pay a few bills.

I saw a charge to a store only I would shop at. I did a double take. Triple take. I certainly did not make that purchase and was very afraid the other member of my household did not either.

He fessed up. And then he told me I was nosey. Uh huh.

Reason? Just because he knew I wanted it and to tell me how proud he is for running this upcoming marathon.

Impressed, yes. Surprised, hells yes. Sweet, very very much so. 

Monday Smunday

Happy Monday! (just kidding)

The rest of my weekend was quite lovely. I ran 5 miles (hurt a bit at 4.5), enjoyed our little cabin and the cold weather, drove back home in time for a perfect Happy Hour with the hubs and homemade grilled pizza. It was the perfect ending to our weekend. My husband is totally right, I have a bigass head.

I am a horrible blogger and didn't take pics of the pizza, but it was beeeeutiful.

Foodwise I did pretty good for the weekend. That's usually when I lose my shit and eat anything I want, and/or in site (OK not always) so I was proud of myself for maintaining some self control.

After talking to some running friends, I decided to take this week off running as well and give myself more time to heal. I will be cross training on my bike trainer and bodyrocking so I don't go nuts. I ordered my old Brooks shoe last night, which a few people said is probably my main issue. I REALLY hope that's true. I'm sorry I keep talking  about this issue so much as I would MUCH rather be bragging about my amazing 15 mile run I was supposed to have this weekend, but hey, life is just that way sometimes. I'm still on the fence about the 15k race I have scheduled for Sunday...thoughts?

In more exciting news, I finally broke down and bought my first item from Lululemon last week, I just couldn't help it. I went for these shorts and am in LOVE...the prices are ridiculous, but for a pair of shorts I'll wear often I only feel a tiny bit bad.

Speaking of shopping, I am challenging myself this month and will NOT be buying anything for the whole month...my new running shoes last night don't count, obviously.  No shoes, no t-shirts, no running clothes or earrings. Nothing. Nada. Zilch. My closet is full and I even have things that still have tags, it's ridiculous. My good friend did this challenge last month and was successful, so I'm going to copy her and go for it.

Wish me luck.

Upgrade

Now that I have my grubby little paws on this guy...I am 110% over mourning the loss of my beloved Forerunner 305.

I went with the "older" model (versus the new 410) because I got a super duper deal on it, it does all the same things my previous 305 did, and it's SO much cuter and smaller than the old clock I used to wear around my wrist. Granted, I loved that clock, but I figured since I was buying a new one, I might as well go for it. I debated getting the light green, but settled on the black cuz I'm practical like that. It wirelessly syncs and does a bunch of other shit I haven't figured out yet.

She's charging and then I'm going to go test it out...nothing like a new toy to put a little excitement into a run!

108 days...

Yes, 108 days until I run my first FULL marathon.

I just clicked the "register" button on my computer and registered. Well I actually pressed click 8 days ago, but it's taken me this long to gather the courage to tell you.

I was waiting for my husband to get on board because honestly, I need his support. I need him to get up with me on weekends and run 17, 18 and 20 miles with me. I need him to have a crazy strict schedule to fit all these miles in. I need him to whine with me about blisters, hydration and chafing. I need him to talk me down when I start freaking out. I want him to accomplish this goal WITH me.

And I certainly need HIM to hold my hand as I walk to the start line on May 6th, 2012 in Newport Beach, California...home of the OC Marathon. 

I know I could do it alone, but how amazing will it be to share this experience together?

The thought of a start line with a finish line 26.2 loooong miles after makes me feel a lot of things, lots of mixed emotions...mainly nauseous, terrified and full of anxiety. But a little bit of excitement, challenge and finally "joining the club" that so many people are part of.

My main goals are:

1. Finish, injury free.
2. Not shit my pants.  (more worried about that one)

I have told a few people that I registered...including my best friend who recently finished hers...watching her train, race and finish with a smile on her face made me feel 110% on board with this decision. I know it will be hard, but I'm up for the challenge. I know she will be one person that can talk me down when I freak out.

Soooooo, why the OC Marathon?

1. Weather.

I needed one far enough out for proper training, as Arizona does not have any fulls after March/April due to weather.

2. Location.

California was my natural choice for various reasons; weather, ease of travel, and the option to stay a few days after for "recovery" aka beer drinking and being lazy and awesome. And this is part of the course...hellllllo.

3. Date.

Why May? 5 months out...I didn't want to wait until Fall.

4. Course.

Not as flat as AZ, but flat enough so I won't die.

5. Size of Race.

Including all races (5k and half marathon) about 12,500. Large enough for crowd support, a decent expo and for me to get lost in the crowd so people won' even notice me dying at mile 22 and point and laugh.

Official training starts soon...POW!

Snow Bunny

I'm heading here in a few minutes...first time snowboarding.

credit

It could be ugly, wish me luck.

No shame here

I really shouldn't post the ugliest photo I have ever taken on the world wide web, but let's be honest here...I don't care. Strangers at the gym see me like this...and fellow runners at races...and my poor friends, family and husband.They still love me. You will too.

I tested out the "new trainer" today and Wade WAS NOT lying. I parked my bike in front of the big screen, popped in the video that came with it and hopped on. A 10 warm-up and a 37 minute race and I thought I was going to die. My heart was exploding out of my chest, I was drinking sweat, and my quads and hamstrings were on fire. God, I disgust myself with that description.

Proof.

Aren't I a vision of beauty?

I'm starting something I'm excited about on Monday....details to follow!

Pucker Up

A few new additions to my makeup bag this week...my lips will be wearing these this fall:

CB 96 - Frost

Creme Cup - Cremesheen

Russian Red - Matte

Cultured - Lipglass

So fresh and so clean

I got my hair did today.

And my awesome.cute.sassy.very.prego hair stylist used a product on me that I have been DYING to try.

Enter Moroccan Hair Oil. 

Smooth, shiny, faster drying amazing-ness in a bottle. 

Don't mind Greasefest 2011 on my face

It's only $40.00 bottle...anyone wanna buy it for me?

Not everyone is an a-hole

I attended my very first Arizona Road Racers board meeting last night.

I'm so cool.

OK not really. But a lot of these people are. The meeting was held at a Member's fancy law firm downtown....20th floor with amazing views of the city. I would have taken a picture but I wanted to be normal for at least one meeting before they figured out what a spaz I am. We started off the meeting with a short intro to tell everyone a little about ourselves and our "running story". I laughed when it was my turn. I am the newest runner of the group.

At least no one made me feel bad (or they just secretly laughed and pointed when I left the room).

But really, most of these people have served  multiple years on this board. It's the biggest running club in Phoenix, running and managing multiple races a year. And they do all of this for nothing. For the pure love of the sport. I'm pretty excited to be a part of that.

When they asked me WHY I wanted to be a Director my reasons were this:

1. To become a better/faster runner.
2. To give back to the community. (I know, cheesy)
3. To meet new people with the same common interest. Running. (obvs.)

Being the VERY serious person that I am....I was a little apprehensive walking into this big board room full of people. I was having flashbacks of a neighborhood HOA meeting I once attended (not pretty, lots of angry people yelling and fighting about stupid shit no one cares about).  I was hoping I wouldn't fall asleep out of boredom or be stuck dealing with a bunch of boring drips for the nest year.

Opposite!

The room was full of funny, crazy, sarcastic and sweet people. All with really cool personalities and different abilities as far as running. The President is training for a 100 mile Ultra. Damn Gina.

So there are GOOD people in the world, that do shit for free because they aren't a-holes.

End of story.

Operation: Office Makeover - Part Duex

My Shiny New Desk is arriving TOMORROW!

Paint has been purchased and bookshelf assembled. 2 large bags of trash dumped. Plastic storage bins bought and filled accordingly. Making progress.

Once it starts to come together, I'll post pics.

I-Did-A-Green Run Recap and My News!

Wade and I recently became members of the Arizona Road Racers. 

Reasons?

1. Become more involved and meet more runners.
2. Discounts on club races.
3. Free track workouts.

We have participated in several of ARR's runs and they are a great group and put on some fun and well organized races. I decided to throw a 10K into my plan and see how I did. 5K's are a little too fast and furious for me (I almost barfed after the last one).

The race was about 8 minutes from our house at the Reach 11 Sports Complex which was REALLY nice, we didn't even have to wake up at the ass crack of dawn. It rained the night before, so the weather was pretty nice to begin with and it eliminated some of the dust on the course....this was an all Desert Run.

PRO's:
1. Location to house
2. Cheap entry fee ($11 or free to ARR members)
3. "Green" Event - bring old shoes and get a raffle tix in exchange and free shirts from past races. (recycling)
4. Desert Course - was nice on the joints, but I had to be careful with the roughness of course and going through all the washes. Scenic and different.
5. Actual bathrooms vs. Port-a-Potties = awesome and not smelly. 
6. Well organized, fun group and smaller race.

CON's:
1. I accidentally went off course following a non-racer that was on the "course"...added about 30-40 seconds to my time before I realized what I was doing - idiot. Wasn't marked as well as it should have been.
2. Start time was 7:15am. Arizona in September is still hot and I was dying at the end of course with no shade.
3. Time clock said 8:59 pace and my Garmin said 8:51 - kinda odd. 

My tank was pretty empty at the end because I was so hot and I forgot sunscreen, so I jogged across the finish line...pretty lame.

However, I will do this race again...it was fun, fast and a nice run. Plus, I had my cute new purple shirt on. ;)

**************************************************************

I have been in talks with the ARR's about joining the Board of Director's and becoming more involved in the club. Voting was Sunday during and after the race and yesterday I was told that I was nominated for the position I was after!

Official Title: Vice President, Special & Social Events

I am REALLY excited for this opportunity, to be more involved, meet more people and give back to the running community. I lovvvvvve planning! My first event to plan will be for Halloween!

Operation: Office Makeover

Check out this sad little room we have in our home, I should be ashamed to be showing you this...

 
We call it an office, but really it should be coined "The Dumping Grounds/Cat Room/Fugly Shit Room". We have hauled off a few things up to the Cabin so at least it's cleared out now and ready for some REAL decoration. And I'm ready for a big girl office.

I work from home a lot. And I NEVER use this so called "office". I take over the dining room table or I prop my laptop on my lap in the living room and plug away. But let's face it, that's not efficient, and it's certainly not good on my ole' back and neck.

Wade is all for this little room makeover. He has offered to help and is letting me take the reins and make it MY room. So I shall.

A few things I have picked out so far...

Bookshelf (with baskets)

Accent Wall Paint Color

Desk with Hutch

Still debating on what type of chair I want....solid, zebra (or other animal print) or a patterned/bright/fun fabric. I have a few bright and fun chairs downstairs, so I might scratch that. We'll see what I find...I'm trying to keep a reasonable budget here, so that might make my decision a little easier.

A cute side-table, lamp and some sassy wall art will complete my "vision".

I'm pretty stoked. Update to follow....

Roadie

I caved. And now this is mine.

I wasn't 100% convinced that this was a new adventure that I was ready to take on. After all, I am still in the learning process of running and racing and quite frankly, I really love it. But my determined husband was not going to take NO for an answer. You see, my first ride on a road bike was not a good one. "The Bike Shop" (that I did not purchase from) put me on a test bike that were probably trying to unload on some stupid oblivious newbie. A bike that is made for racing. For people who know what the hell they are doing. And apparently women with iron vaginas. And that ain't me...except the oblivious part of course, wink. Soooo, I assumed all bikes were like this. And I wrote it off.

 I of course, encouraged Wade to pursue this new adventure and to get a bike of his own. He has a wild hair up hiss ass to train for a Triathlon, and I think that is super. We went to "The Bike Shop #2" on Sunday to check things out...and purchase something for Wade. Wellllllllll, I tried out some bikes more suited for riders like me. People who are riding for fun, leisure and exercise. And for scardy cats. (aka extra brakes and tires that are wider than a grain of rice) And how very sweet, Wade wanted US to try this new adventure together, as a couple. Something else to do together and something else to be excited about. He's right. We don't have kiddos, we don't have very many expensive habits (eating out, running, and traveling when we can) so I finally said "what the heck, let's DO this"

2 days later, I picked her up. Now she just needs a name. And I must admit, I'm pretty excited.