End of week running plus a field trip

I had a busy end to my week. Wednesday evening I got a short run in with Kaden.  Thursday was packing for his field trip on Friday to Animal Kingdom. With that trip we decided to make an extra day of it (we are pass-holders); so I had to make sure everyone was packed and good to go.

Starting with Wednesday-

Kaden and I went for a run. He was still a little sore from Monday's run but still went out and did almost 2 miles. He is 8 so I give him lots of credit for asking to go with me. 

I did a slow run with walking intervals. I did 2.5 miles with a pace of 11:21. Super happy with that considering I am doing walking intervals. No knee pain either! Oh happy run day!! 

Friday-

Our trip to Animal Kingdom was bright and early on the bus with lots of 2nd graders! Thank goodness for coffee! I was chatting on and off with a few parents. Then as we pulled into Animal Kingdom, of course I had to brag about running on that road and how flooded it was from Wine & Dine weekend. It's still very fresh in my memory! Sis-n-law and I tried to take pictures but our hands were so wet we couldn't get our phones to open at all! 

I had a group of boys. First thing they wanted to do was Mount Everest! Bless their brave little hearts! They rode it like champs! Our day consisted of lots of walking and for that I was thankful. When I am unable to do my running, walking will do. 

We went on the safari and I took a selfie, yes a selfie with the giraffe! 

Fun stuff! 

The kids had a great time, even though it was sooo hot! Florida has missed the memo for springtime. High 80's in March! Unreal! 

Even though it was hot, we made the best of it. Lots of smiles to go around!

As it was time for the field trip to end, we stayed and were meeting the rest of the family at Epcot. Fireman had a day with the girls checking out the Flower and Garden Festival. Lucky gals! 

Kaden and I hopped a bus to meet them there and decided to take a few fun photos. 

I love this little guy to pieces! He is so much fun! 

Saturday-

We had Magic Kingdom planned, but it was crazy busy. I know how that sounds, but we have never waited in traffic for more than a few minutes just to park.  The ticket lines were insane too. so we decided to hope a monorail back to Epcot. ( the kids were not super thrilled). We did stuff that they didn't do yesterday, just to change it up. Plus, we take things slow since we don't have to rush around. (perks of being a pass-holder). We did a few countries to let the kids learn a little. by 3 pm we were hot and over it.  It was time to go home. Boo! 

Sunday- 

We unpacked, did grocery shopping and all that fun stuff. I did lots of laundry. So fun said no mom ever! Kaden kept asking if we were going running. I told him yes, I planned on it at 6:30 and fireman was going to prep dinner. 6pm rolled around and I hadn't drank nearly as much water as I should have. I was still exhausted from the past few days. I decided to sit down and finish the book I was reading. My son was a little bummed and I was bummed for letting him down and not going, but I knew not having enough water and being so hot the past few days it would have made for a crappy run. With that I have a goal to run a few days with him this week. 

Disney's Frozen 5k

The title speaks for itself. Literally. It was beyond cold for this Florida girl. Record breaking temperatures the morning of our 5k. Not fun.

The expo wasn't to crazy, we went on Thursday due to us racing Friday morning. As always, there is never anything for 5k runners. Which stinks. Run Disney really slacks in this area. I loved seeing all the vendors and fun racing attire! 

I had to make some adjustments to our running costumes due to weather. Sadly all our race photos we were covered by jackets. Boo! It'll be another Disney race we won't forget! Wine & Dine had pouring rain and cold temps. Now a Frozen 5k. I'm starting to see a pattern... 

I was Queen Elsa, my daughter was Anna, and my son was Olaf.  We had to stick with the theme! I had a friend make our skirts and paint Lenee's shirt. They came out amazing! I think the gals should go into business!! What do you think?

We were in corral B. WOO!! However, it was a slow start for us. Buggy didn't like the cold weather at all, she was having trouble breathing in such dry air. She did a very fast walk until her body warmed up a little. I think by 1.5 miles she started to run a little. She was still freezing and miserable. Didn't want to stop for characters. I had to talk her into posing for a few photos. 

 

Her mood changed once she saw Elsa, Anna, and Kristoff. I wonder if they were as cold as us? 

(I hope so)!  Although I'm sure Elsa was loving this weather! 

I had a little knee pain, I used KT tape in hopes to be able to run pain free. Having the tape on helped some. Even though I still had pain, it was tolerable and I didn't feel that locking up feeling that always forces me to walk. 

By mile 3 Lenee was in a much better mood, only because the finish line was coming! She didn't want to take after photos. She grabbed her goodies and headed straight for the van. We had about an hour to keep warm before heading back out for Kaden's one mile race. Food and warmth. At the point I don't think anything was better than those 2. 

Trying to stay warm in the van!

As we walked over to the kids one mile starting point, my son informed us, that he didn't want us to run with him. He wanted to do it on his own. What?!? I was a little nervous about this. There were a lot of kids actually signed up for this race. I did love Run Disney's security point though. The parent's had to keep a tag that matched their child's bib number in order for them to come out of the finishing area. Fireman said let him do it, he's got this. I know, I know.. he's 8 and very smart for his age. But still! 

I finally caved and let him go to the starting line alone. My son is a perfectionist and is very competitive. ( I have no clue where he gets it from). The look in his eyes told me he wanted to win this, even though I told him that children up to the age of 13 were running and that everyone is a winner. 

Kaden certainly proved his determination. 7:44 for his mile run. He was in the top 10! Proud mom moment for sure! He finished and told me right away he wanted to run a 5k and then a 10k. I love that running has had such a positive effect on my children! 

My super cute Olaf with his prize! 

Both children have  running goals and I am going to make sure they achieve them! As soon as my knee issue is corrected we will began training! 

Speaking of knees, I went to the orthopedist yesterday. He believes I have Patellofemoral syndrome. So I will be trying some exercises and stretches to see if that helps correct the problem. My x-rays came back looking good. So that was good news. If I don't see an improvement in a month with exercises we will look into an MRI. Fingers crossed I don't have to do that. 

What a way to end a Run Disney race weekend. With Starbucks and a Dole whip! 

MRTT Winter Virtual 5k 2015

This was my second year of doing the MRTT Winter Virtual race. I love my local running chapter!
This was also my first run since seeing a chiropractor and having him adjust my ankles in hopes to be pain free while running.
I was looking forward to this run. WAS. I was going to do the 5k and planned for a 10k if my knee allowed it. However, my knee had other plans.

It was a very cold morning for Florida! We bundled up.

Do you like my beanie?! I scored it for a dollar! Hey... whatever keeps me warm! Plus I am wearing Mary Kay makeup. More on that later!

My run started out good with Fabulous.  I was excited and feeling great. The cool air is was refreshing. Then at about 1.5 miles in the pain hit. I walked, stretched. Pain seemed to go away so I started a slow run. The pain came back. I started walking again. I was getting mad. I took 4 weeks off to prepare for this run. I rested. I started the run walk stretch method over and over. The pain eased a little around 2 miles and I did some slow pace run / fast walk to try to keep my pace time somewhat decent. 

Fabulous called my cell. She knew when I didn't arrive a few minutes after her that something was up. She told me she would run back to meet me. It was after I hung up with her that I allowed myself to shed a few tears. Frustration. Anger. Sadness. But only for a minute. 

Fabulous came up and gave me a big hug! I needed it. It's a reminder that all runners love each other. We're in it for the same reasons. 

I finished my 5k in 43 minutes. Not my best time, I finished. That's all that matters. I could have given up at mile 1.5 but I didn't. I kept on. 

The end result was worth it. I got this medal and it sparkles! What is better?! 

I do have an appointment with an Orthopedist in 2 weeks. I'm counting down. I will find answers and a solution. 

And yes I was wearing makeup for my race! I'm a Mary Kay beauty consultant. Mary Kay CC Cream is a great option for those wanting to wear makeup and workout / run! I love it!! 

My next 5k is Friday. I see a lot of walking... Disney's PHM weekend I'll see you soon! 

Transformation Tuesday with Julie

Hi there! I haven't done a transformation Tuesday in awhile so here goes!
My friend Julie started her running journey last year and has come so far! I did an interview with her about her transformation. I can't say enough how amazing she looks. I will say HARD WORK PAYS OFF! Julie is a pure example of determination and dedication. I am honored she let me interview her!

1. Why did you decide to get into running? Did anyone inspire, motivate you? My best friend made me agree to sign up for the Run or Dye 5k with the Bridesmaids in her wedding party. I was very reluctant because I’ve never been able to run a mile in my life. I didn’t think I could do it. I did the Couch to 5k program and never looked back with her support and motivation.  I am so grateful for it.

2. What 3 words would you say describe your running? Difficult, renewing, & peaceful.

3. When you first set out on your running venture, what was your goal? My first goal was to be able to run the entire 5k without taking any walking breaks.

4. What is your goal this year? ( has it changed from your original goal)? This year my goal is to run a half marathon. Eek!

5.  Top 3 running songs. We run the night (Havana Brown & Pit Bull), Heroes (Alesso with Tov Lov), & I lived by One Republic.

6. What do you love / hate most about running? I love being able to take time out of my day to be alone with myself. I always come back so clear minded after a run no matter what is going on. I hate getting dressed and out the door. Once I’m out the door, it’s amazing. Before that sometimes I manage to talk myself out of a run.

7.  1 year later... how do you feel vs how you felt a year ago.  I’m still shocked that I can run a mile let alone 6-7 miles comfortably. I’ve lost about 75lbs from walking, running and eating healthier in the last 4 years. It still is surprising how much my body changed and what I can do. Things I didn’t even think were possible are now so attainable.

True determination. It's real. It's out there. I'm so excited for Julie's goals this year and I can't wait to see what lies ahead for her!! 

Year In Review 2014

2015 is just around the corner and as I leave 2014 behind I wanted to look back on all that I have accomplished this past year. I have logged over 250 miles for the year! It could be a little more, I switched running apps a few times thanks to the Nike app making me angry at times!  Regardless of how many I logged, I ran. I accomplished my running goals for the year. I think a little bit of bubbly is in order to celebrate!
When 2014 started I had no desire to lose weight or run much. It was a battle I was choosing to ignore, but 12 days into the new year I got my motivation. I watched my best friend and another friend, along with countless strangers run a full marathon! I thank you for showing me the way!

February 2014, I ran our local MRTT winter virtual 5k race without walking at all. First time ever! I cried. 

I also ran WDW Royal Family 5k with my  10 year old daughter and Fabulous. No walking this one. It was also my fastest 5k time (at this point in my running career).

By the end of February, Fireman and I were signed up for our first half marathon! WDW Wine & Dine 2014. I was shocked that I pushed the submit button. 

I also gave up soda this month. Big accomplishment! 

March 2014, I ran my first 10K. It was a little rough with it being beach side and windy but I finished with great time and was 4th place in my age group! Sisnlaw was 3rd! Proud moment for me! 

April 2014, I did a color run 5k with my sisnlaw's bridal party and Fabulous. I am not a fan of color runs. But still had fun! 

May 2014, Tried Zumba for the first time... and only time to date! 

I had lost 15-20 pounds by this month. All due to cutting out the junk and continuing to run and exercise! 

June- August 2014, Half marathon training had started. Woo! 

MRTT Summer Virtual 10k completed.  

I also became a Girl's Gone Sporty Ambassador! 

September 2014, Sisnlaw's girl's weekend and wedding! Busy month and training was a little hectic. 

October 2014, More half marathon training. 

November 2014, The first I ran the Annual Cowboy 5k with my daughter. 

She ran it in 29:07 and I finished in 31:39. Best time to date!!!

WDW Wine & Dine half marathon / worst running conditions ever complete! 

I still can't believe I ran 13.1 miles with sisnlaw.... in the freezing cold rain. In windy crappy conditions after dark.(being a Florida gal, I don't do cold well).  How we didn't end up with a cold, I don't know! 

December 2014, Ran my first cross country 5k with my 7 year old. He beat me! I was shocked because he is a lazy runner! I came in 3rd in my age group! Woo!

As I look back, I am beyond happy with all of my accomplishments! I still can't believe I have achieved so much in one year! 

 When you put your mind to it, anything is possible! I am thankful for all my friends, family, and local MRTT group for all their support and advice!!! It is heart warming to know I have such a wonderful support team!!! I love you all!! 

With that.. my favorite picture of 2014 is:

No it's not a picture of any of my medals. None of my medals can come close to what I felt the morning this photo was taken. None. It's a picture that's worth a thousand words and I will leave you with that. 

Amber's Year In Review

I am featuring a fellow running friend. We met through my sisnlaw's consignment shop and the rest is history.
I mentioned doing WDW Wine & Dine half marathon weekend and the next thing I knew, she was signed up!
I have enjoyed following her running endeavors this year! It's so inspiring to see someone just say "hey I'm going to start running race events".  I asked her to write up a review of her year in running. And well... here it is!

I used to run just "to go for a run" and I never trained for anything. I even ran an ultra relay and got a medal, with no real regard for the whole situation. Fast forward to January 2014, I began running to train. But for what, I didn't know yet.
Then early spring I got word of the registration opening for the Wine & Dine 1/2 marathon. I asked my hubby about it and he said "sure why not?!" So, I signed up and realized I needed to train for it. I mean it was friggin' 13.1 miles!
In signing up for this race, I also began finding other ways to start participating in runs. So it began...the great race...uh, race, of 2014.
Since beginning in January, I've run too many 5Ks to count, two 10K, a quarter marathon, and a half marathon. More than 1.5 races per month!
I've pushed my body beyond its limits, cried, laughed, cringed in pain. But all the while, becoming a better wife, mother, runner, and person. My children now participate in races and my husband has begun running again as well!

You can follow her running journey over at: www.runmomgo.wordpress.com

I love this picture collage she created! I can't wait to see what 2015 has in store for her! 

July goals

Ya I know it's the 7th.. but it's never to late to discuss goals for the month.

• Goal 1: 

My 1/2 marathon training started  today. I am doing Jeff Galloway's Wine and Dine 1/2 training plan. My goal is to stay on track with this training plan and not fall behind. I know I will have to alter some days due to fireman's schedule and that is okay, but falling behind is not okay. I need to stay on track, it's a way to keep me motivated.

• Goal 2:

Cross train more.
I have slowly jumped back into weight training and working on toning my body. With that on my off days from running, it will be cross training. I have started buying weights, etc to build my own home gym so that should be motivation enough.. right?

• Goal 3:

DRINK MORE WATER! I pretty much only drink water, coffee, and the occasional glass of wine. I drink water through out the day, but I know I need to up my water intake. 

3 goals for July.. not to hard right?! I can do this!!