tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54697802060275634042024-03-15T21:12:44.026-04:00Lil RunnerRunning - what's your therapy?N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.comBlogger814125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-92197654882052720072011-12-04T13:58:00.001-05:002011-12-04T13:59:07.953-05:00LIL RUNNER IS MOVING!Please update your URL to http://lilrunner.wordpress.com. <br />
<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-63632552859548720222011-12-03T12:19:00.001-05:002011-12-03T12:30:49.730-05:00moving to Word Press?I have done the bare minimum to switch my blog over to Word Press by
importing my posts. I am going to try it out but I think very soon I will be making the full switch and leaving this blog in the dust! I have a few things to figure out first. If you have any tips on getting the hang of everything, please direct me! <br />
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http://lilrunner.wordpress.com/2011/12/03/making-the-switch/ <br />
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Would you visit my site and post over there and leave a comment? I'm trying to get the hang of it :) Is the only way to get fun fonts to purchase the custom fonts thing?N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-40024736812445282542011-11-30T21:35:00.001-05:002011-12-01T13:41:06.165-05:0018 weeks and favorite holiday recipesYesterday I hit 18 weeks. For the first time 2 days ago, I felt the fluttering. With the first 2, it wasn't until 22 weeks so it's early for me! It's so weird and I'm still in major denial that this is happening and have major anxiety that I will be able to handle 3 children and give them each their time. I have a strong feeling that it is a boy, but last night I had a dream that a girl was born! We will be surprised - that is my favorite thing! Other than emotionally, physically I have been feeling fine. Some days depending on the position of the baby, I cramp up when I'm running, but otherwise everything is good and I can't complain one bit. I've been able to eat pretty well and have not had too many aversions or major cravings so I'm lucky! I was MAJORLY sore yesterday from the TRX class on Tuesday. I am still sore - everywhere. Every muscle in my body. Probably worse than the marathon soreness? I'm considering doing it once a week, it was a great workout!! <br />
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17 weeks:<br />
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I'm so excited to for the holiday season, I love it!! <b>Share your favorite holiday recipe link </b>- I love trying new recipes. Here are a couple that I want to try but I'm definitely looking for already modified tasty somewhat healthy recipes.<br />
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<a href="http://peasandthankyou.com/recipage/?recipe_id=6000678">gingerbread cookies (vegan)</a><br />
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<a href="http://familyfun.go.com/recipes/italian-christmas-cookie-tree-689291/">Italian Christmas cookies </a><br />
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<a href="http://family.go.com/food/recipe-1031041-mickey-and-minnie-peppermint-swirl-cookies-t/">Mickey Peppermint Cookies</a><br />
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Here is a nice start to the day with a <a href="http://peasandthankyou.com/2011/11/29/everyday-eats-sugar-cookie-smoothie/">Sugar cookie smoothie!</a><br />
SUGAR COOKIE SMOOTHIE - adapted from MAMA PEA <br />
<ul>
<li>2 Celestial Seasonings Sugar Cookie Sleigh Ride Tea Bags</li>
<li>1 1/2 c. unsweetened vanilla almond milk</li>
<li>1 scoop vanilla protein powder (I used trader Joe's hemp protein)</li>
<li>2 T. old fashioned oats</li>
<li>1 frozen banana</li>
<li>1/2 t. vanilla extract</li>
<li>1/2 t. xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)</li>
<li>1-2 c spinach</li>
</ul>
Mama Pea boiled the milk, then steeped the 2 tea bags overnight in the fridge. I couldn't wait when I saw the recipe so I cut the tea bags open and just dumped the herbs directly into my milk. Then last night I tried the overnight steep but honestly didn't find a difference. So go ahead and dump the tea bags in!<br />
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Next - I added spinach and the frozen banana! With the green color, it's not as pretty but you can't taste it :) I added in a cup or 2 of fresh spinach and used a frozen banana instead of ice cubes. Didn't have the xantham gum so it wasn't as thick as the picture but still yummy, the kids ate it up! ! Great recipe Mama Pea!<br />
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<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-37385268440716965822011-11-29T16:24:00.001-05:002011-11-29T16:28:53.915-05:00New Clif Shot Blok Flavor: CitrusI had the opportunity to get a free sample of the Clif Citrus Shot Bloks - their newest flavor. I thought it was somewhat repetitive since they have lemon-lime. Isn't that what citrus is? I thought they tasted similar to the lemon-lime but maybe more subtle? So if you think the lemon lime is strong, try the citrus flavor! <b>What flavor would you like to see?</b><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">From Clif: </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">CLIF SHOT BLOKS come in eight
flavors, including three with green tea extract as a natural source of
caffeine, which studies have found improves endurance capacity.
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<i><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;"> </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">In addition to Citrus, CLIF SHOT
BLOKS are available in Black Cherry (50 mg caffeine), Cran-Razz®,
Margarita (with 3X the sodium), Mountain Berry, Orange (25 mg caffeine),
Strawberry and Tropical Punch (25 mg caffeine).</span></i></div>N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-61194370046289157862011-11-29T15:58:00.001-05:002011-11-29T16:24:34.617-05:00Back into the routine!Whew! Happy Thankgiving!! Hope that everyone had a really nice break and thankful holiday. We were away from Thursday to Monday, but it felt like a month. We went to my inlaws house in Connecticut. I didn't cook anything. Next year it looks like I'll be cooking and we won't be traveling. I would love to have a veggie Thanksgiving - but I don't think anyone would want to attend that! :-) <b>What was your favorite Thanksgiving dish?</b><br />
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I am usually a really good eater at the inlaws and work out too, but this time I got sick the day after the marathon with a pretty bad headcold, and it intensified by the weekend after Thanksgiving. I was able to do my first run back after the marathon on Friday (5 days later!) on the local track but couldn't subject myself to the treadmill in the early mornings any of the other days. I slept in and enjoyed the help from my mother-in-law & cousin-in-law! Being pregnant and sick is the worst! You can't take what you want to take so it seems to linger on. The neti-pot was a huge help this weekend.<br />
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I had signed up for a free TRX class at the new gym that I joined this morning. It was just 3 of us so great 1 on 1 attention. I think I'll be sore tomorrow and that it was just what my body needed - change! I felt extremely slow on Friday running, but I think I'll get back into it this week and next week. I think that the rest was good for my legs and they will be fresh when it's time to get going again. If not, I'll switch it up and do other things. <b>Have you done TRX? Do you do cardio before/after?</b> It seems like I would put it in the place of lifting. It was one hour long but it would be good for 30 min of TRX and 30 min of cardio.<br />
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<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-26625095046445405702011-11-23T07:38:00.001-05:002011-11-23T07:38:44.162-05:00winnerThe healthy baking giveaway winner was schmidty - please email me your info - tosha25italia at yahoo.N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-30600249194276517992011-11-21T20:59:00.001-05:002011-11-21T21:27:28.267-05:0016 weeks and more marathon thoughtsSo today I'm pretty sore. My right knee started hurting around mile 23 yesterday and it's the kneecap - my knee is sore, and also I have shin splints and my quads are sore. I love being sore though, do you? I used to always record what shoes I was wearing and the mileage and I stopped doing it when I had kids. I am positive that my shoes need replacing and probably are to blame for the shin splints and my knee pain. Time for some new shoes. Here are some of my favorite pics from my mom's phone:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W-j8W4HQ9gQ/TssGC1PrJDI/AAAAAAAAOus/fym9oMgOrl0/s1600/photo%252816%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W-j8W4HQ9gQ/TssGC1PrJDI/AAAAAAAAOus/fym9oMgOrl0/s320/photo%252816%2529.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stealing Nick's water - they ran out of cups</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFYqG2SWPYU/TssGCDUDFgI/AAAAAAAAOuk/e9Nj9hvxP0s/s1600/photo%252814%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFYqG2SWPYU/TssGCDUDFgI/AAAAAAAAOuk/e9Nj9hvxP0s/s320/photo%252814%2529.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at mile 22</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nJSvxXLWd20/TssGD3ujscI/AAAAAAAAOu0/wVGfJcc1mpI/s1600/photo%252817%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nJSvxXLWd20/TssGD3ujscI/AAAAAAAAOu0/wVGfJcc1mpI/s320/photo%252817%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hugs at the finish!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-viGg-ZhyGgQ/TssGAQqzRiI/AAAAAAAAOuU/hLP7i7rV9oY/s1600/photo%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-viGg-ZhyGgQ/TssGAQqzRiI/AAAAAAAAOuU/hLP7i7rV9oY/s320/photo%25284%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yesterday:<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XzfzFzRKS08/TssGBHr6e6I/AAAAAAAAOuc/6To58RJLzwM/s1600/photo%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XzfzFzRKS08/TssGBHr6e6I/AAAAAAAAOuc/6To58RJLzwM/s320/photo%252811%2529.jpg" width="239" /></a>Breakfast was a scoop of peanut butter with coconut oil and amazing grass and 1/2 a clif Z bar. I had 3 chocolate clif gels and 1 razz clif gel along the way. I think the first was around 7/8 miles, maybe even 10 miles, then 15, 20, 23/24. I had zero plan and just took them when I felt like I needed them. I also had a bag of sport jelly beans along the way. I really like those things! Post race I was hungry! I ate a power bar, pretzels, a chocolate milk, a coconut water, and then veggie quesadillas at the diner we stopped at post-race. It was fun having the kids there and able to function. We got home and they napped so it was perfect!<br />
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Check out the comparison of times:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marine Corps 10/30</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gAh5iLamiC4/TssHeShUsHI/AAAAAAAAOvc/rDFG-94NKbM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-21+at+9.28.09+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gAh5iLamiC4/TssHeShUsHI/AAAAAAAAOvc/rDFG-94NKbM/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-21+at+9.28.09+PM.png" width="165" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Philly 11/20</td></tr>
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Half for Marine Corps was 2:13:57, 30K 3:15:19...<br />
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About 100 yds to the finish, I should have taken Nick with me!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/FvBzPyAUz1Y" width="560"></iframe> <br />
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15/16 weeks were kind of a milestone - i feel like my stomach popped out, my boobs started hurting and got bigger, my regular sweaters aren't flattering anymore...<br />
I don't look obviously pregnant to the general public but probably obvious to people who know me. Every week I feel like I have a different craving. Last week I was eating alot of Fritos and the past month York Peppermint Patties! I'm kind of just eating whatever I want but I get full quickly!<br />
<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-64748055722855457092011-11-20T18:08:00.001-05:002011-11-20T18:46:48.802-05:00Philly Marathon '11 reportI lined up at the start this morning not knowing if I would be running half or the full marathon. I was leaning towards the half as of yesterday because I didn't feel like spending 5 hours running today...here was my thought process around miles 10 until I saw the divider - TO THE HALF MARATHON FINISH (go right) or FULL MARATHON this way.
- I'm running pretty well, faster than MCM -maybe I'll beat my time?<br />
- Can I handle a slow half marathon time?<br />
- I'm starting to cramp up a bit, should I just stop?<br />
- I can stop and watch the finishers come in, and do media coverage (for examiner)<br />
- I will stop and enjoy myself and get a massage and take my time getting home!<br />
- Maybe I should just go for the whole thing, I have a streak going and this year I'm supposed to do the full<br />
- Should I really do this?<br />
- I signed up for the full, will they give me a medal if I stop at the half? Can I handle no medal?<br />
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And that was it my friends. I wanted a medal and to follow through on what I signed up for. And so it was. And at mile 14, I was like, WHAT THE HELL WAS I THINKING? Should I turn around NOW? Or go to mile 15 and turn around? Can I just show up at the finish and ask for a medal and somehow pretend I finished without crossing the line? Maybe I should just do this thing. Am I really going to do this?<br />
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I felt like I was being total irrational and somewhat crazy to even consider going all the way out to Manayunk but I just kept running and I was in good spirits. My poor parents, Bill and the kids were awaiting what I was going to do and my mom kept texting me "do we have a decision?" they were coming for the second half of the race. I got to see them at mile 22 which was awesome, and then again right before the finish. By that point, I was barely running, it was like a speed walk/jog. I got pathetic and it all went downhill pretty quickly around mile 14. It probably would have been good to stop at 13, but I don't regret finishing. I kind of like the no-stress marathon, but man, it would be nice to run a fast marathon and not spend so much of your day on your feet, wouldn't it? And the pride too!<br />
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I finished in over 5 hours - my first over 5 hour marathon 5:10. The last 2 miles I was pretty much hurting and trying to keep moving, and from mile 18 on, I loved cheering on other people (LOVE the names on the bibs, stellar!) It was really fun, I think 20 miles would have been a good ending distance. :) <br />
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I got to see <a href="http://havedentalflosswilltravel.com/">Abby </a>at the start, the first 100 yards! She did awesome and PR'ed! And <a href="http://www.runtothefinish.com/">Run to the Finish</a> was out smiling in Manayunk - got to see her too!<br />
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Got my medal, and my pride, and #7 complete.<br />
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The pictures:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pooped out from watching</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">had a great time watching</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#1 fan</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w5js-SExQZA/TsmQZf-OATI/AAAAAAAAOsI/TmTIKxQqrD8/s1600/IMG_2276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w5js-SExQZA/TsmQZf-OATI/AAAAAAAAOsI/TmTIKxQqrD8/s320/IMG_2276.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">eating all my post race snacks to stay happy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">future marathoner</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and she's awake as we're ready to leave!</td></tr>
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<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-77946293232144166522011-11-17T14:21:00.001-05:002011-11-17T14:38:56.677-05:00Healthy baking (giveaway)Whenever I see a *normal* recipe that looks good, I try to tweak it to be more healthy. Sometimes it turns out, and other times, not so much! Thanks to blogs like <a href="http://peasandthankyou.com/">Peas and Thank You</a>, <a href="http://www.ahealthypassion.com/">A Healthy Passion</a>, <a href="http://heathereatsalmondbutter.com/">Heather Eats Almond Butter</a> & <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/">Oh She Glows, </a>I've had guidance on what products to use and how to properly tweak recipes.<br />
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FLOUR <br />
I used to see a recipe, replace the white flour with whole wheat flour, and then wonder why it just didn't taste the same. I've learned that whole wheat pastry flour is a lighter flour to use that works much better for baked goods and recipes, and that it is nice to throw in some ground oatmeal (oat flour) or toasted ground quinoa when you can too!<br />
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SNEAKING IN VEGGIES, FRUITS AND BEANS<br />
Other than changing up the flours, I usually try to find a way to add in something good for you, whether it be flaxseed, squash, applesauce, beans, avocado ... here are some of those recipes that were tasty for sure:<br />
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<a href="http://nannersbread.blogspot.com/2010/10/avocado-brownies.html">Avocado Brownies</a><br />
<a href="http://nannersbread.blogspot.com/2011/06/you-would-not-believe-me-if-i-told-you.html">Brownies made with white beans</a><br />
<a href="http://nannersbread.blogspot.com/2011/09/butternut-squash-quinoa-doughnuts.html">Butternut Squash Doughnuts</a><br />
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Now sometimes I do just make straight up full fat, bad for you recipes, but most of the time, it is for other people! <b>SO what are your tricks? Where do you find your recipes?</b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>GIVEAWAY</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span id="yui_3_2_0_18_1321555496994382">Hodgson Mill® is offering one lucky reader a $25 gift certificate to the </span><a href="http://www.hodgsonmillstore.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span>Hodgson Mill online store</span></a><span class="yiv1402134296apple-style-span"><span>. Here you can find flours of all kinds, corn meal, baking mixes, pancake mixes, bread mixes, couscous, pastas... the possibilities are endless! Just leave a comment below telling me one of the following:</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="yiv1402134296apple-style-span"><span><br /></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="yiv1402134296apple-style-span"><span>a) what are your tricks for healthier baking?</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="yiv1402134296apple-style-span"><span>b) what are you looking forward to baking this holiday season?</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="yiv1402134296apple-style-span"><span>A winner will be selected at random on Tuesday, November 22nd. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="yiv1402134296apple-style-span"><span> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hodgson Mill is also giving away 50 giftpacks ($85 value) of their products. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.hodgsonmill.com/grainday1/">Click here to enter!</a></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-40724582062693530982011-11-16T09:04:00.001-05:002011-11-16T15:16:30.589-05:00Review of Margaritaville sunglasses<div>
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I was given the opportunity to review a pair of <a href="http://www.margaritavilleeyewear.com/">Margaritaville sunglasses.</a> This is a new line of polarized sunglasses.</div>
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I picked the Calypso model:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k0BS30H_SDo/TsQHwQW8p0I/AAAAAAAAOl4/ZtU0lZ9dIzo/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-16+at+1.32.05+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k0BS30H_SDo/TsQHwQW8p0I/AAAAAAAAOl4/ZtU0lZ9dIzo/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-16+at+1.32.05+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have never spent more than $15 on a pair of sunglasses because usually a) I lose them b) I sit on them or c) I break them. It is nice to have a very nice pair of sunglasses, and the best part is that they come with a box to store them in, a bag to protect them, and a "leash" to go around your neck. That helps not to lose them and not to destroy them! Here are the details from the website:</div>
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<li>MPT (Margaritaville® Polarized Technology) nylon lenses </li>
<li>100% UV A/B Protection </li>
<li>Heat Sculpted Polymer frame </li>
<li>SunGrip rubber nose pads </li>
<li>SunGrip rubber temple tip insert </li>
<li>Spring hinges </li>
<li>Integrated Margaritaville® Leash System </li>
<li>Island Style details </li>
<li>Ships with custom Margaritaville® Case and microfiber cleaning bag </li>
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Also from the website: <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>MPT® Polarization Technology</i></span></h3>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>
</i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Polarized lenses act like slatted window blinds—when light hits a
reflective surface it bounces and scatters, reducing contrast and
clarity. The “blinds” in MPT ® lenses block scattered light rays but let
in the “corrected” light with virtually no glare, allowing you to see
clearly and fight eye fatigue.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>
</i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>All Margaritaville® polarized sunglasses feature premium fused
polarization Technology. MPT® Fused lenses diffuse glare through the
use of an integrated, pre-formed polarizing filter, layered within the
injected lens, allowing incredible clarity even in the harshest
conditions. MPT® fused lenses are the highest quality available and
filter out 99.9 % of blinding glare.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">How did they fit? The fit is great and they are super comfortable. I noticed that they make things look much darker than they are which can be a positive and negative depending on your needs. They provide great protection from the sun and stay on during running too! I like the palm tree logo that is on them - if my glasses are ever on a table and I'm not sure which ones are mine, they are easy to spot. I love that they have the "leash" that I can keep them around my neck. And I store them in my car in the box because right now I'm usually wearing glasses when I'm driving, or out at the park. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you are willing to spend money for a nice pair of glasses, I would highly recommend these!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Right now, you can get a great deal - all eyewear is 50% off! <a href="http://www.margaritavilleeyewear.com/">Check them out here.</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/margaritaville">Like Margaritaville on Facebook!</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">How much do you normally pay for sunglasses? How often to you buy a new pair? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><i> </i></span><br />
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</div>N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-52290457110853329692011-11-16T08:34:00.001-05:002011-11-16T09:03:41.213-05:00Acts of Kindness<b>A MONTH OF GIVING THANKS </b><br />
I forgot to share this when I saw it last week: There are <a href="http://www.icanteachmychild.com/2011/11/week-2-link-up-30-days-of-intentional-acts-of-kindness-with-your-kids/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ICanTeachMyChild+%28I+can+teach+my+child%21%29">great ideas </a>for random acts of kindness that you can do yourself or with your kids.<br />
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I love some of the ideas, and here is <a href="http://www.joyshope.com/">another great blog</a> too! Inspired last week, I picked up a leaf from the YMCA to donate 2 jars of gravy for Thanksgiving. It just helped me to think that it's nice to help others, even if in a small way.<br />
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<b>What random acts of kindness do you take part in?</b><br />
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<b>PHILLY MARATHON WEEK </b><br />
It's marathon week, and I'm back and forth on whether I'm actually fit to run this thing. The weather forecast - now calling for 60s - looks like it's on my side. Just knowing what I'm getting into (by knowing the course and such) is not on my side. After having the great long run on Saturday I felt like my body was hurting Sunday and Monday. I had a good run yesterday. My plan is to line up to attempt the full and depending on how I feel, I can always stop half way (which I think is a detriment about the course!) I'm starting to rationalize and feel like I'm sort of crazy for even thinking about doing another marathon 3 weeks after the first only because I'm pregnant. We'll see what happens!<br />
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<b>BIRTHDAY PARTIES</b><br />
I'm a big birthday party planner. I love birthdays and like planning themed out parties for the kids. Last year was trains, the year before was airplanes and I've been thinking about fire trucks for this year since his last birthday, ha! Well, most of my friends are doing parties during the week within playgroup so I am questioning spending the money to have a firehouse tour and safety demonstration for less than 10 3-year olds. I'm trying to find a happy medium. Do any stations have free tours? That's what I'm thinking - I feel like the fire station would be pretty awesome. We're in limbo since we're renting and I would like to have the party elsewhere, so...that's where I am in party planning right now! <br />
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<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-87659432157174855322011-11-12T19:13:00.001-05:002011-11-12T20:13:50.107-05:00Share your eats SaturdayI had an amazing long run this morning! It was the best I've ran since the Philly Distance run 2 months ago. I had only peanut butter before I ran and didn't feel like I wanted to eat anything during the run, and then I really wasn't that hungry after. It was weird. <br />
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This was my week of <b>improvement:</b><br />
Last week/recovery week- average pace for first run back 10min/mile. Long run <b>10:24</b><br />
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This week:<br />
Run #1: inside:7 miles- <b>10:13 min/mile</b><br />
Run #2: inside: 5.1 miles - <b>9:49 min/mile</b><br />
Run #3: inside:4.2 miles <b>9:32 min/mile</b><br />
Run #4: LONG RUN outside: 12 miles <b>9:38 min/mile</b><br />
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Did my training this week get my body ready to run faster? I couldn't believe I was on my way to being done 12 miles in that last mile! It flew by and felt great. My goal once I hit 5 miles was to keep each mile under 10 min pace. It wasn't too challenging to do that but after 5 miles I did think I was starting to fade. Mile 6 was the slowest then I got it back together. I tried to give whatever I had the last 1/2 mile and was able to get it below 9:30. All in all, I wish I could run like this everyday!<br />
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I did pay for this run the rest of the day - exhaustion, sore lower ab area - maybe that means I pushed too hard. I remember running the Baltimore 1/2 marathon when I was 5 months pregnant with Nick and it hurt to cough. It was like that today when I was done. Either way, it gave me great confidence for next weekend! If I do run the full, I think I can beat the MCM time? <br />
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Moving on, here are my recipes to share from this week! <b>What do you have to share?</b><br />
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<a href="http://heathereatsalmondbutter.com/recipes/heabified-nutri-grain-bars/">Nutrigrain Bars</a> - great for kids<br />
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<b>Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes</b><br />
<i>inspired by <a href="http://peasandthankyou.com/recipage/?recipe_id=6000249">Mama Pea's Apple Cinnamon Pancakes</a></i><br />
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<ul class="single_recipe_text" id="ingr" style="color: black; font-size: 14px; margin-left: 20px; padding: 0;">
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 4px;">2/3 c. whole wheat pastry flour</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 4px;">1 1/2 t. baking powder</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 4px;">1 t. cinnamon</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 4px;">1 T maple syrup </li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 4px;">3/4 c. almond milk</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 4px;">1/2 t. vanilla extract</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 4px;">1/2 c. pumpkin</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 4px;">1 T ground flaxseed </li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 4px;">mini chocolate chips to your liking</li>
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Combine it all in a bowl. Let's get real here - I don't have time for steps. Cook them on the skillet till set. Enjoy! </div>
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<b>Creme de Menthe Brownies and Creme de PEANUT BUTTER Brownies</b><br />
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I followed <a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2011/10/creme-de-menthe-brownies-from-1988/">this recipe for the Creme de Menthe</a> for Nick's nursery school bake sale and then a colleague from work needed a dinner after her pet died this past weekend and I knew she loves the pb/chocolate combo so I made half mint and half pb. Why didn't anyone think of those Peanut Butter layered bars? Or maybe I missed it!<br />
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For the creme de menthe, they were WAY sweet!! For my second go-around I took out 1/2 the sugar. I actually tried a vegan version but they did not compare, so I don't recommend it. I would just cut out some of the sugar in the brownie bottom, because you will be getting sugar in the middle and top. For the peanut butter version,<br />
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<b>Creme de Peanut Butter variation</b> - I swapped in Trader Joe's creamy (pretty liquidy) peanut butter for the creme de menthe. It was easy to spread.<br />
<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-17477631867728791202011-11-09T17:42:00.001-05:002011-11-09T17:42:26.816-05:00winner of the SILK giveawayVALLEY WRITER!<br />
Send me your info :)N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-50413929092491462782011-11-09T16:23:00.002-05:002011-11-09T16:23:50.124-05:00OWW - Opinions Wanted WednesdayIt's that time again - Christmas cards! I've had three photo shoots with the kiddies so far and I am a perfectionist. I never get the picture that I want. I'm learning that I don't have time to get exactly what I want anymore, and I feel like 3 photo shoots is all I have in me right now. Getting them dressed into their Christmas attire and attempting to have them sit for me - partially impossible! I have a feeling I will try one more time but I'm going to try to hold myself back. None of these are perfect but let me know which picture you like the best for a main photo!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#1 Nick isn't smiling :(</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#2 I wish Kara wasn't laying down</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nick has a death grip on Kara here</td></tr>
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These were some of my favorite photos from today - non-edited:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#4</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#5</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#6 thanks for the smile Nick</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#7</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#8</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#9 Now look at Mommy!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#10</td></tr>
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You can tell me if you like any of these more too! <br />
You're probably thinking, wow, it's November 9th and you're taking Christmas pictures? I love taking photos of the kids, and last week I wanted to run away so I decided to have a focus and this has made life easier :) <br />
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I forgot to put my due date in the last post - May 3.<br />
<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-43384483957757386482011-11-08T15:07:00.000-05:002011-11-09T16:29:49.250-05:001st trimesterI think the decline of my running came the week after the Philly Distance Run. We held under 9 min pace for that race and I felt comfortable for it. Then my hamstring flared up and I could not run the entire week after. When I came back from that, it was slowly and I had to go get my hamstring worked on every week. Now I'm dealing with discomfort after every run that lasts the entire rest of the day but I can run comfortably for the most part. The pain is the worst when I'm driving or sitting still (which I don't do much!). I feel like I can't get back to a faster pace and I'm working against myself since my body is going the other way (decline,slowing) but it would be real nice to run a better time in Philly than MCM?<br />
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I was able to run 7 miles this morning on the treadmill and it felt really good! But so slow! I could run 7 miles in an hour at one point, and it took me over an hour and 10 minutes :( Kind of frustrating. I made a friend at the gym. Do you talk to people at the gym? I need to socialize in the morning. At the Y, it was the same early morning crew so I knew people and knew the instructors. I joined a new gym for the days I'm not swimming since they were running a special for the rest of the year (and hopefully after that I can cancel it!) I don't know anyone, but this morning the guy next to me asked me a question about signing up for the machines - you have to do that to "reserve" the time you are on it. Then we became running buddies, haha. Too bad he was traveling for business. Older guy, recreational runner. I'm starving for interaction, even when I'm running, so it made the time go by quicker. But all in all it felt good anyway! It was definitely frustrating since he started after me and was done before me - and we both did 7 miles, but what can you do? 7 miles felt really good!<br />
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So the first 12 weeks were different this time. Since I was in top shape and training for the triathlon and marathon, this wasn't in my original plan, and I did cry when I found out. For the full story, I thought I was in the clear, then realized I wasn't and that I ovulate super late. I took the Plan B pill but this baby pulled through. I think I feel overwhelmed enough with Nick(will be 3 in Feb) - low key and sweet, and Kara( will be 1.5 in January) - demanding, mama's girl, but sweet! so it has been hard to swallow but I know babies bring so much joy and it will be great for the kids to be close in age (17 months between Nick and Kara, 22 months between Kara and the new sibling:) ) As far as my well being?? We'll see how that goes! I wish that I could share my fertility because I know so many people who want to be pregnant and jump through a million hoops to get there or just can't get pregnant. I can't even imagine.<br />
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Anyway, as far as the first trimester... I had some nausea this time around, I was napping in the afternoons very often, I couldn't keep my eyes open! I didn't really have aversions, just foods that I saw and wanted right away! With Nick and Kara, I wanted butter, cheese, and toast/english muffins, and I could not look at veggies the first trimester. I'm going strong on my veggies and was really into cheese the first few weeks, and cheese hoagies too! Peanut butter was take it or leave it for a couple of weeks there, and I was eating my Amazing Grass Chocolate with coconut oil every day! Now, I have weekly/monthly cravings - the chocolate and mint is a strong one, mexican food - black beans, cheese, sour cream, guacamole. Starting at Halloween with the candy, I feel like I have been shoving my face and not stopping when I'm full. I feel like I am now obviously pregnant (at least at swimming). I need to chill out a bit!<br />
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I feel like I've been pregnant for the last 3 years straight and everytime things start getting easier, bam! I'm pregnant again. I guess they'll all be close in age and have a good time. I'm questioning how you give enough time to each child, because I've always wanted 4 kids and I feel like giving two the attention they need is a challenge! I guess I'll see after 3.<br />
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Some ultrasounds pics! Due date May 3. I'm around 15 weeks, I think. I'm not really keeping track!<br />
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<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-33715376813257710572011-11-07T15:11:00.003-05:002011-11-07T15:11:41.007-05:00Recovery week stats and granola recipeThis is Kate's <a href="http://www.ahealthypassion.com/2011/08/12/protein-punch/">great granola recipe </a>that was gone from my house extremely quickly!<br />
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<strong><em>High Protein Granola</em></strong>
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adapted from Kate at A Healthy Passion<br /><a href="http://www.ahealthypassion.com/2011/07/08/vanilla-coconut-granola/"></a></div>
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<strong>Ingredients:</strong></div>
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4 tbsp brown rice syrup</div>
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2 tbsp sunflower seed butter</div>
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3 tbsp coconut oil, melted</div>
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1 3/4 c oats</div>
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2 tsp vanilla extract</div>
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1 scoop vanilla hemp protein powder</div>
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1 tsp cinnamon</div>
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<strong>Directions</strong>: Combine the
brown rice syrup, oil, sunflower seed butter and vanilla in a large bowl
until well mixed, fold in the oats and add the rest of the ingredients
stirring to coat. Once mixture is well combined pour onto a lined baking
sheet and bake 20-25 minutes at 325 degrees stirring once. Let cool and
enjoy!</div>
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I didn't need all that much recovery after the marathon and my week rounded out pretty well. Here's what it looked like:<br />
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Monday - off<br />
Tuesday - easy short swim, bike 4.5 miles and stretching<br />
Wednesday - swim easy 3300 yards<br />
Thursday - run easy 4 miles!<br />
Friday - spin class - challenging 17 miles<br />
Saturday - run 7 miles outside<br />
Sunday - Spin class - 16 miles<br />
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This weekend I'm hoping to run about 2 hours, and then I might just run Philly for some 5 hours of fun in 2 weekends!<br />
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<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-47899305363193160712011-11-04T21:51:00.001-04:002011-11-04T21:51:21.669-04:00Marathon history<a href="http://marleneontherun.blogspot.com/">Marlene</a> had posted all of her marathons and times and like it's supposed to be, they improved with each one down to a BQ! So inspiring! Unfortunately my friends, that is the opposite case with me, which leads me to believe that I've never given my all into marathon training and that I'm probably not cut out to be a BQ'er. Here is a recap of my marathon running history.<br />
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<b>#1! my first marathon - Steamtown, October 2004, </b><b>4:14:19* </b>PR<br />
I was teaching and coaching, single but engaged and followed plan to train for this one. My friend Nicole got me into the marathons after college. Too bad there was no facebook back then - I have no pictures to share.<br />
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<b>#2 New York City, November 2006 4:43:40</b><br />
I had stomach issues pretty early on and ended up walking and using port-a-pottys and my sister held my hand through most of the latter miles of this one! It was killer! I'd like to return to NYC someday and have a better experience but not at the price they are asking - and I hear they have fast standards now too. <br />
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<b>#3 Philadelphia Marathon, November 2007, 4:26:24</b><br />
I trained pretty well for this one, and around mile 18 I hit the wall. Miles 20-26 I was barely moving. My cousin finished the last 6 miles with me. I've never had a strong 10k at the end.<br />
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<b>#4 Boston Marathon, April 2009, 4:21:03</b><br />
10 weeks after Nick was born! I was so excited to be running in this race. My sister hopped in and ran the last 10k with me. I'm pretty sure I slowed down but I was just so happy to be there.<br />
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<b>#5 Philadelphia Marathon, November 2009, 4:39:36</b><br />
(7ish weeks pregnant) <br />
I was totally burnt out for this race, since I never really took a break after Nick was born. I had just found out I was pregnant with Kara 5 days before and I had no air to spare. I distinctly remember around mile 19 being completely out of breath. My sis ran the final miles of this one with me too!<br />
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<b>#6 Marine Corps Marathon, October 2011, 4:54:03</b><br />
(14ish weeks pregnant) <br />
Slowest one yet! Started with my sister, but all my training runs were super slow, and I just got slower as I reached the teen miles. I really didn't care about my time but when you are done you always wish you went faster!<br />
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<b>#7??? Philly #3? Should I do it?</b><br />
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So I've ran 2 Philly fulls and 2 Philly halves and here is my comparison of Philly to the others:<br />
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Steamtown - small-town marathon, the whole town is out cheering and the fans are amazing! There were definitely quiet spots, and there was also room to run along the course. When we got off the bus at the start - a high school, students presented us with ribbons to wear on our shirts. It was a hometown feel, hilly at the end, and a great experience! I'd go back<br />
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New York - I remember getting up at like 4am, boarding buses and sitting around for a long time. The village was cool - where you wait to start. A guy in the starting corrals peed right in front of me. Going over the bridge was so weird, it was shaking! I liked seeing all the parts of New York and all the fans that were out. The finish in Central Park was amazing.<br />
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Boston - what can I say, I was so happy/excited to be there, the whole thing was amazing. Fans everywhere, great things to give out - gus, etc, great crowd support and amazing atmosphere. Similar to New York I think I had to get up at 4 am, even though the race didn't begin till 10am. Long day!<br />
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MCM - the first 10 miles were annoying, and the start was anti-climatic. It was a long way to get to the start (walking) and to get home because the metros were so crazy. I liked how we didn't have to wait around in a village and we basically walked up to the start, starting running and were off! The crowd support was amazing, lots of fuel stops - donuts, oranges, gels. I would have liked more water stops, it was weird there weren't clocks at each mile but instead marines yelling out the clock time... busy race, great atmosphere, very fun. The shirts were lame, I would probably never wear it - mock cotton turtleneck. What?<br />
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Philly - Since I know Philly, whenever I run it, I get bored and say I'm never doing it again. The first part is through the downtown and head to Penns Landing. The start is lined with fans but they dwindle quickly. Kelly Drive is fun, there is room to run for the most part and the crowd support is decent but not as good as NYC, Boston or MCM. Manayunk is my favorite part - where the streets are LINED and people are giving out beer. Knowing you have to run all the way back down Kelly Drive and to the art museum is kind of daunting - it's basically an out and back which I don't like all that much. It's a pretty fast, flat course and they do a great job with the corrals and the start. It's super organized and they started putting your names on the bibs, and the shirts are pretty awesome year after year, and the medals! If I was choosing between MCM and Philly, it would be a toss up. I'd choose whichever city I didn't know as well. Hope that helps you out Frank!<br />
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What's left in my future? I hope to do Chicago, and some fun destination like Hawaii! Which marathons do you want to do?<br />
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<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-20984372705382374522011-11-03T14:28:00.001-04:002011-11-03T14:28:03.393-04:00Marathon Pics & recoveryI recovered pretty easily from my slow paced (for me) marathon!On Sunday I wasn't walking well after the marathon, and my calves and knees were KILLING me. My feet were too, right after. I slept in and took off on Monday. On Tuesday I swam briefly and then did alot of stretching. Wednesday I swam again and was able to swim pretty hard, but my legs were tired. Today I was planning to do a spin class but then I realized there wasn't one so I ended up running 4 miles slow and steady. It felt fine, and I stretched afterwards. I feel like I recovered pretty quickly and I think it is because of my pace!<br />
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In my head, I'm actually considering running Philly (in 2 weeks) for another 5 hours of fun, but I'm not even sure how I'd structure the next 2 weeks. I don't feel like doing a long run this weekend so maybe I could skip that and just run for 2 hours next weekend? What do you think? I want my legs to be more fresh before I run long so soon.<br />
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Here are my pictures. I like the first one because I think my form looks good - except that right foot - supposed to land on my forefoot there. I'm glad I look upright and my shoulders back, but for the most part my strides look so short that it looks like I'm speed-walking in almost every picture!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">good form?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3898FLkKCsM/TrLbotukGGI/AAAAAAAAOFs/Uc_w798FE7o/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.20.19+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3898FLkKCsM/TrLbotukGGI/AAAAAAAAOFs/Uc_w798FE7o/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.20.19+PM.png" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">power walking?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LtLPcLApx-M/TrLbpWDamaI/AAAAAAAAOF0/xC4U-4vwRMU/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.20.38+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LtLPcLApx-M/TrLbpWDamaI/AAAAAAAAOF0/xC4U-4vwRMU/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.20.38+PM.png" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this expression and the dude to the right looks funny too!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WxqfKqM1FbA/TrLbp7rciwI/AAAAAAAAOF8/7o5F4oRZMb8/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.21.01+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WxqfKqM1FbA/TrLbp7rciwI/AAAAAAAAOF8/7o5F4oRZMb8/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.21.01+PM.png" width="217" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">determined to finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JYxKgJNbf6I/TrLbqSJKn-I/AAAAAAAAOGE/8spcArGxiaE/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.21.21+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JYxKgJNbf6I/TrLbqSJKn-I/AAAAAAAAOGE/8spcArGxiaE/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.21.21+PM.png" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I look tall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-az4rquWyNtE/TrLbq_XbRzI/AAAAAAAAOGM/63evQ8BJPzs/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.21.45+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-az4rquWyNtE/TrLbq_XbRzI/AAAAAAAAOGM/63evQ8BJPzs/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.21.45+PM.png" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">confused</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3xUFtIWMBZI/TrLbrQQFzZI/AAAAAAAAOGU/RhQXJdew4Ng/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.22.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3xUFtIWMBZI/TrLbrQQFzZI/AAAAAAAAOGU/RhQXJdew4Ng/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.22.02+PM.png" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">very short strides - like the thumbs up from the dude to my right</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zhJr8iQSXE/TrLbsBI9uvI/AAAAAAAAOGc/k9CJmQ7IjkM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.22.24+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zhJr8iQSXE/TrLbsBI9uvI/AAAAAAAAOGc/k9CJmQ7IjkM/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.22.24+PM.png" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">run run run let's not walk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oohFSe0ylYo/TrLbstazRTI/AAAAAAAAOGk/25VKj2LKZEg/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.22.38+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oohFSe0ylYo/TrLbstazRTI/AAAAAAAAOGk/25VKj2LKZEg/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.22.38+PM.png" width="215" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">happy with my buddy Nicole</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3gy6fO1cGRM/TrLbtBEfCHI/AAAAAAAAOGs/ekKw3G3jL5s/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.22.51+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3gy6fO1cGRM/TrLbtBEfCHI/AAAAAAAAOGs/ekKw3G3jL5s/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.22.51+PM.png" width="215" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">smiling at the Capitol!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jEjNZ0kW630/TrLbtoPhYUI/AAAAAAAAOG0/sw_Iga8gPUE/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.23.10+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jEjNZ0kW630/TrLbtoPhYUI/AAAAAAAAOG0/sw_Iga8gPUE/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.23.10+PM.png" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">confused</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dR_VLruXNQM/TrLbuIF0YEI/AAAAAAAAOG8/5Fu__wqb7h8/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.23.37+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dR_VLruXNQM/TrLbuIF0YEI/AAAAAAAAOG8/5Fu__wqb7h8/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.23.37+PM.png" width="215" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">major fake smile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cm3seBdgMHs/TrLbusQKbVI/AAAAAAAAOHE/sXaie9_7shY/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.23.57+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cm3seBdgMHs/TrLbusQKbVI/AAAAAAAAOHE/sXaie9_7shY/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-03+at+2.23.57+PM.png" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">good spirits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I like these pics! :)<br />
<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-63949684099136820962011-11-01T21:11:00.000-04:002011-11-01T21:11:02.747-04:00Drink SILK with your cereal! (giveaway)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RkheQmcd6-0/TrCSD7bS1EI/AAAAAAAAOC8/Bgc6Gfxroxs/s1600/DSC_1016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RkheQmcd6-0/TrCSD7bS1EI/AAAAAAAAOC8/Bgc6Gfxroxs/s320/DSC_1016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I stopped drinking regular milk a while ago! My top choice for milk has been almond milk for almost everything, including with my cereal. I was contacted by Silk to try having Silk with my cereal and they sent me complimentary coupons to try it out. <br />
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<a href="http://switchtosilk.com/">Silk </a>sells 3 different varieties but 17 choices (chocolate, unsweetened, vanilla, etc) including the ones that I picked, PureAlmond (original) and PureCoconut (original). I tried both and PureAlmond was the winner but I would use both over milk. The almond is very subtle - the coconut definitely has a clear coconut flavor! I would describe both as creamy and light. I really like them!<br />
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I used this fun bowl that you can transport your cereal and Silk in. You put the Silk in the blue part and it stays cool. The white part goes underneath with your cereal, a lid goes on the blue part, there's a spoon with it too and voila! You can bring cereal and Silk to work or wherever you are going! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uyr6rKPe67M/TrCSFRfzIQI/AAAAAAAAODE/fyULmsDbfdU/s1600/DSC_1018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uyr6rKPe67M/TrCSFRfzIQI/AAAAAAAAODE/fyULmsDbfdU/s320/DSC_1018.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YbzfMXSH68k/TrCSG7w8ArI/AAAAAAAAODM/SgofGcZ8LTc/s1600/DSC_1020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YbzfMXSH68k/TrCSG7w8ArI/AAAAAAAAODM/SgofGcZ8LTc/s320/DSC_1020.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
Want to try it out? <a href="http://switchtosilk.com/ten-day-challenge/everyday-swap.php">Take the 10 day challenge!</a> On the website there are ideas for 10 days of using Silk! I would start with your cereal but all of the ideas are great! <br />
<br />
FYI:<br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">* Silk contains more calcium than typical dairy milk. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> * Most people prefer the taste of Silk Vanilla to typical dairy milk<br />
on their cereal.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">I've heard the dark chocolate silk is amazing - have you tried it? <br />Check out <a href="http://switchtosilk.com/">their website</a> where you can print a coupon and see all their varieties!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">You can also like them on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SilkUS">Facebook! </a>and follow them on<a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/LoveMySilk"> twitter</a>! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><br /></span></span><br />
<u><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Now for the giveaway! One lucky random (US only) winner will get</span></span><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484214" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484213" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> a Silk cereal bowl, 2 Silk coupons, and a Silk ChicoBag. Do you want to win?</span></span></u><br />
<span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484214" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484213" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484214" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484213" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b>Mandatory entry </b>- <br />Leave a comment with what you currently eat your cereal with. Skim milk, almond milk, etc.</span></span><br />
<span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484214" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484213" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484214" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484213" style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Extra bonus entries - leave a comment</span></span><br />
<span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484214" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484213" style="font-family: Times New Roman;">(+1) Like Silk on Facebook and/or Twitter</span></span><br />
<span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484214" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484213" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484214" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484213" style="font-family: Times New Roman;">A winner will be selected at random on Tuesday, November 8th. </span></span><br />
<span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484214" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1320194826484213" style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-18788814793939550362011-11-01T14:56:00.006-04:002011-11-01T15:05:53.185-04:00Part 2 of my MCM experienceI'm sorry for the wait! Coming home to Halloween was a good move, lots of walking and lots of candy! First the picture version:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--1XhmskUdUo/TrA_m0B-0LI/AAAAAAAAOBQ/BJ4_sUVE8Gg/s1600/IMG_2081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--1XhmskUdUo/TrA_m0B-0LI/AAAAAAAAOBQ/BJ4_sUVE8Gg/s320/IMG_2081.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">metros were PACKED!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j9wYhAbLP-w/TrA_nBXHtUI/AAAAAAAAOBY/4actorRjzQ4/s1600/IMG_2083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j9wYhAbLP-w/TrA_nBXHtUI/AAAAAAAAOBY/4actorRjzQ4/s320/IMG_2083.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">great view on our one mile + walk to the starting area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lN3kX5qFOi8/TrA_nqKurxI/AAAAAAAAOBg/Y0U6ZuRYZHY/s1600/IMG_2088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lN3kX5qFOi8/TrA_nqKurxI/AAAAAAAAOBg/Y0U6ZuRYZHY/s320/IMG_2088.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">around mile 22ish? Thanks Nicole!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BVNHuo2Hnng/TrA_oOoLSYI/AAAAAAAAOBo/b_OsJONTy_k/s1600/IMG_2089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BVNHuo2Hnng/TrA_oOoLSYI/AAAAAAAAOBo/b_OsJONTy_k/s320/IMG_2089.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">another shot with a smile here by Nicole :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T6cNoecrIOw/TrA_ok6XB4I/AAAAAAAAOBw/FpUH1oZzMN8/s1600/IMG_2091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T6cNoecrIOw/TrA_ok6XB4I/AAAAAAAAOBw/FpUH1oZzMN8/s320/IMG_2091.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">never thought I'd make it! :) haha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PL8NzxEZLRY/TrA_pFjhAKI/AAAAAAAAOB4/Us20E548KfM/s1600/IMG_2093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PL8NzxEZLRY/TrA_pFjhAKI/AAAAAAAAOB4/Us20E548KfM/s320/IMG_2093.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SWEET VICTORY LIES AHEAD!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YxqcXnln3QY/TrA_pojGDhI/AAAAAAAAOCA/Iae4AHnw_ik/s1600/IMG_2094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YxqcXnln3QY/TrA_pojGDhI/AAAAAAAAOCA/Iae4AHnw_ik/s320/IMG_2094.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">finished!! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7-IzIS2-rI0/TrA_qD_nOGI/AAAAAAAAOCI/MlZhMa7-bHs/s1600/IMG_2095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7-IzIS2-rI0/TrA_qD_nOGI/AAAAAAAAOCI/MlZhMa7-bHs/s320/IMG_2095.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">super cute shirts my sister made</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HoolfiP-Sss/TrA_qgtX86I/AAAAAAAAOCQ/1wPLlddCP7Q/s1600/IMG_2096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HoolfiP-Sss/TrA_qgtX86I/AAAAAAAAOCQ/1wPLlddCP7Q/s320/IMG_2096.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill who was at 18,22 and the finish, great spots!! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3zl64OJNFXo/TrA_2qOGlII/AAAAAAAAOCg/KyLeQJjIRlc/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-01+at+2.55.44+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3zl64OJNFXo/TrA_2qOGlII/AAAAAAAAOCg/KyLeQJjIRlc/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-01+at+2.55.44+PM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pretty cool map of all where we ran</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So to recap, miles 1-10 were pretty brutal with crowds and I was in a very negative state of mind. I ran 1-5 with my sister but when she started weaving, I didn't have the energy to follow anymore. One day we'll finish a sub 4 marathon together. Mile 11 my buddy Nicole who lives down there joined me and ran with me until mile 24! Mile 12 they gave out Clif gels - and my plan was the snickers and milky ways but I wasn't feeling them so luckily, Nicole grabbed me some gels! chocolate flavor too. I was digging them at the time and they were delicious! I had a snickers at mile 7, chocolate gel at 12, another gel around 18, some beans and clif bloks from there to the finish and a chocolate munchkin at mile 24 :) There was a hill to the finish and at that point I was laughing picturing what I looked like. I wish I had a video of that. It was hilarious! <br />
<br />
I loved all the stuff they were handing out, and the only thing I'd ask for is more water stops! So here were my splits:<br />
<br />
I'm not sure why I'm running like garbage right now, I do have an announcement that another baby is on the way, but seriously, these paces are ridiculous regardless. I wasn't looking at my watch and didn't really care at the time but it makes me mad looking at this now (and kind of not care). I had way too much going on leading up to this which made my training stink. First I found out I was pregnant in August. My running took a toll for the worse pretty quickly because I was out of breath. Then our house sold so the whole moving process drained me for sure. And overall just attempting to train with the 2 kids - I wasn't into it. So here is marathon #6 in the books under 5 hours at 4:56 and my worst marathon time ever. My sister ran a 4:09 which would have been a PR for me too, so I'm
bummed that I wasn't in shape to run that 4:09 with her. It was a good time (not clock time) and I'm glad I finished it and someday I will run a marathon under 4 hours. Probably not for another 12 years or so.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N6Eq1iyFyI4/TrA-FBm5egI/AAAAAAAAOA4/VeDT147XWBI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-01+at+8.09.59+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N6Eq1iyFyI4/TrA-FBm5egI/AAAAAAAAOA4/VeDT147XWBI/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-01+at+8.09.59+AM.png" width="163" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvsX4N4IHgs/TrA-GAwelXI/AAAAAAAAOBI/HTpoELnwVw8/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-01+at+8.10.22+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvsX4N4IHgs/TrA-GAwelXI/AAAAAAAAOBI/HTpoELnwVw8/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-01+at+8.10.22+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I did sign up for the Philly full marathon back in the spring when it opened and they were running a deal, so there's a chance I may run another 5 hour marathon. I do think it's cool how much ground you cover and maybe I'm just not a real marathoner that PRs, just a leisurely one that can run for 5 hours just to get it done and enjoy the weather and sites. We'll make this one a game time decision. I can't believe I am even considering it!<br />
<br />
<br />
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bv_WoalTDgE/TrBC-oTOpJI/AAAAAAAAOCo/VXleuwQdpdk/s1600/DSC_0094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bv_WoalTDgE/TrBC-oTOpJI/AAAAAAAAOCo/VXleuwQdpdk/s320/DSC_0094.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">piglet and sir topem hat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JMDZgMj8X3s/TrBDAIgMjfI/AAAAAAAAOCw/QkQd2p61DAw/s1600/DSC_0171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JMDZgMj8X3s/TrBDAIgMjfI/AAAAAAAAOCw/QkQd2p61DAw/s320/DSC_0171.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-48307895343691398652011-10-30T21:53:00.001-04:002011-10-30T21:53:22.704-04:00My thoughts on MCM - Marathon #6 (ultra) - part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eltwuDA3iWk/Tq3-xdYxb4I/AAAAAAAAN8M/cvGvzku9y1w/s1600/mcm-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eltwuDA3iWk/Tq3-xdYxb4I/AAAAAAAAN8M/cvGvzku9y1w/s320/mcm-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The expo – </div>
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The expo was decent. Nothing too special but nothing
lacking. It was not only raining/sleeting/snowing but also freezing cold around
30+ degrees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Me & my sis were
praying that the weather was going to change for Sunday – and it was supposed to.
</div>
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<br /></div>
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The night before meal –</div>
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We went to an amazing Italian restaurant for dinner and had
loads of bread and a pasta with mushrooms. It was delicious. I definitely ate
too much – so hard not to do when out to eat where there is amazing food!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our dinner was at 5:15 so we stocked up with
pretzels and halloween candy to nosh on later. I had a lot of chocolate and
some pretzels later in the night and peaced out around 9:30 (normal bed time!)</div>
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<br /></div>
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The morning of –</div>
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I didn’t have to get up till 6am so that was amazing. It’s
like sleeping in still to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During the
week, I’m up just before 5 usually. I woke up and got my things in order – I
had to totally revamp my outfit because of the sudden arrival of winter.
Luckily my sister made us fun bright pink shirts to wear and it went nicely
with my black capris.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ate peanut
butter and bread and a mini snickers bar because I forgot my normal Z bar
breakfast!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I drank some water and headed
to the lobby to meet my sister. She picked me up and drove to a metro stop to
park and we headed on the metro to the start. The metros became insane about
one stop away from the start. Standing room only – and we were packed like
sardines in there. Getting off the metro and trying to get up to the exit of
the building and out to the start was ridiculous. They were still making people
enter their metro card (individually)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>and going through the turnstiles. At one point they just started letting
everyone go through but I think it took us 20-30 minutes to get out of there.
THEN we had to walk to the start. I swear the walk was at least a mile, maybe
even longer. It was insane! And it was freezing. I was gripping my sis for
warmth! We stopped at the port-a-potty line and it was already 7:55 (race start
8am). We heard the start and headed towards it. The race had already officially
started – we started 10 minutes late and it was anti-climatic – we basically
climbed a barrier and started walking up to the start line with tons of other
people, crossed the line and started running. It took me a while to realize
that I was actually starting the marathon – very weird.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The first 5 miles I was able to run with my sister. The
amount of people on the course was way too much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was weaving and no space for at least
10 miles. It was super frustrating. I lost my sister with the crowds and
weaving and just kept on going but I was definitely getting worked up about the
lack of space. Someone would just stop and start walking right in front of
me<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>or someone going super slow would not
move to the side to run.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Aghh… very
annoying.</div>
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<br />
At mile 11, my friend Nicole started running with me and she ran with me until
mile 24! Who has a friend that is in shape to just hop in and run a half
marathon? How awesome was that?? She was my snack holder – grabbing fuel for me
at the stations, tour guide – telling me where we were and where we were headed
and random historical stories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was
entertaining for sure. My words were usually one word responses, like “cool” or
“fun” haha and at one point I said that I didn’t want to know about mileage or
distance left. It was super helpful but you know when you just get to a certain
point and you just want the other person to stop talking? And when 6-4 or even
3 miles sounds like a ridiculous amount to go? I ran most of the Disney marathon
with my sister and I’m pretty sure she told me to “shut the f up” or at least
after the fact she told me she wanted to say that to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You get real moody at some point in a
marathon, right?? Haha. Nicole was a great running buddy<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- she only left me with 2 miles to do alone
which was amazing!! And she kept passing me fuel and took action shots of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a great friend - thanks Nicole! </div>
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<br /></div>
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I felt like the entire race I was totally out of it in some
other zone where I was hardly paying attention to what I was running by or taking
it all in – at all. I was focused on my form, trying not to think about how
slow I was running or how much my body hurt,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>and excited to get to the finish line. I was smiling, and for the most
part happy, but also thinking that I never want to do this again and that we’re
all crazy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gs2WadtlIdM/Tq3-v8WrmjI/AAAAAAAAN78/_mXUdda8ATQ/s1600/MCM-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gs2WadtlIdM/Tq3-v8WrmjI/AAAAAAAAN78/_mXUdda8ATQ/s320/MCM-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">smiles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The crowd support along the course was fantastic. There were
even fan-made water stops and people handing out candy and treats along the
way. The crowds were great. As far as along the course, it was tough to get
into a groove the first half of the race – way too crowded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wouldn’t run this one again, because it was
frustrating. And if I was actually going for a PR, I’d be super pissed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought they did a nice job with the aid
stations and had lots of food to give out – oranges, gels (around mile 12),
jelly beans (mile 19)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and my favorite –
dunkin donuts munchkins(mile 24) !! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I felt like I was looking for water so that they could have
had more water stops – they were lacking.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XrRdDRQlRTM/Tq3-wfDvFAI/AAAAAAAAN8E/fCKFcVDYsCk/s1600/MCM-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XrRdDRQlRTM/Tq3-wfDvFAI/AAAAAAAAN8E/fCKFcVDYsCk/s320/MCM-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">big sis at 23 miles, lil sis was finished already :) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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The final 0.2 to the finish was a little hill in which I was
cracking up at myself<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>because I could
hardly pick up my feet at this point. I wonder what I looked like. It makes me
laugh thinking about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the finish,
they said my name and city which was so fun!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then it was a massive back up to get a heat sheet and your medal. The
fun part about the medal was that a marine shakes your hand and puts it on your
neck. Those marines are so cute!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then it
was chaos getting to meet up with Bill and my sister (who ran an awesome time
today, and would have done even better if it wasn’t for the crowded-ness).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was cursing by now. I think we had to walk
about another MILE to the <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>finish tents.
A little crazy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They gave us water,
bananas, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>& a little box full of fun
treats (trail mix, pears, pretzels, dark chocolate, dried edamame). I met up
with Bill and Kristen and then we walked another mile to get a taxi in
Georgetown. The metros were crazy with massive crowds. </div>
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Overall – I was trying to enjoy the day and tell myself this
was my last one for a while and try to stay positive. I was super negative the
first 10 miles and angry!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The crowds
definitely helped and running with Nicole. It feels nice to finish!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was marathon #6. Maybe I’ll do Philly
for fun?? Haha, these things are addicting but I don’t think so. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More with my splits & fueling coming next.</div>
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In the end, besides the mile to the start, 2 miles after the finish - my garmin clocked 26.6 miles. Almost 30 miles today, ha! Ultra-marathoner right here :) </div>
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<br /><br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-28531170089325926972011-10-28T07:55:00.000-04:002011-10-28T07:55:01.894-04:003 - 3 - 3 - 3Here are 3 things that I'm into right now:<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qo9oFXjPknQ/TqqTpktB4-I/AAAAAAAAN5g/8nJ-f-zrudg/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-10-28+at+7.39.13+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qo9oFXjPknQ/TqqTpktB4-I/AAAAAAAAN5g/8nJ-f-zrudg/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-10-28+at+7.39.13+AM.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Toffee Chip Power Bars. </b>What is the obsession? Totally processed sugary power bars. I love these things. I have maybe 1/2 before working out and the rest post workout. Then I eat a bowl of cereal an hour later for breakfast. They have mini chocolate chips on top and they are so good. I don't recommend them though, they're addictive and have a big list of ingredients.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oc0pmfNmBWs/TqqWeQgK_gI/AAAAAAAAN5o/-B0nTOkh0BA/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-10-28+at+7.51.21+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oc0pmfNmBWs/TqqWeQgK_gI/AAAAAAAAN5o/-B0nTOkh0BA/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-10-28+at+7.51.21+AM.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>PHILLY CREAM CHEESE</b><br />
I can't get enough of this stuff. Bagels, Potatoes, pasta...with a spoon. I don't know where I came up with this one!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0U7uCajib4s/TqqWmcat1qI/AAAAAAAAN5w/RHS45Jy0Ou4/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-10-28+at+7.51.53+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0U7uCajib4s/TqqWmcat1qI/AAAAAAAAN5w/RHS45Jy0Ou4/s320/Screen+shot+2011-10-28+at+7.51.53+AM.png" width="278" /></a></div>
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<b>CHOCOLATE AND MINT</b><br />
<a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2011/10/creme-de-menthe-brownies-from-1988/">I want these now!! </a><br />
I remember my mom making these all the time growing up. They're all the rage!<br />
<br />I made the <a href="http://www.101cookbooks.com/archives/001370.html">thin mints. </a>I told you they would never look like the picture but all that really matters is the taste, right?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gcg628NgtrU/TqqWzbFrHPI/AAAAAAAAN6Q/IddR0UzDFtU/s1600/DSC_1028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gcg628NgtrU/TqqWzbFrHPI/AAAAAAAAN6Q/IddR0UzDFtU/s320/DSC_1028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now let's talk about some less sugary ideas - COOKING<br />
<br />
I also learned that I like to eat salmon, but I can't cook it then eat it. I'm just starting to eat fish and that is the only one I will try because of its nutritional powerhouse nature. I followed this recipe and tried some of it and it was delicious, but then mentally I couldn't eat it anymore knowing that I cooked it and it was fish. Ha.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1zGhcnTe3BI/TqqWwwaxZCI/AAAAAAAAN6A/hwhhQZ0-GAQ/s1600/DSC_1023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1zGhcnTe3BI/TqqWwwaxZCI/AAAAAAAAN6A/hwhhQZ0-GAQ/s320/DSC_1023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
<br />
This was a <a href="http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/salmon_with_tomato_onions_and_capers/">great recipe</a> that my friend Lauren shared.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iMnwUBY4jeQ/TqqWyTt8V6I/AAAAAAAAN6I/2mXhfQgSTF8/s1600/DSC_1025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iMnwUBY4jeQ/TqqWyTt8V6I/AAAAAAAAN6I/2mXhfQgSTF8/s320/DSC_1025.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">what the heck is on those potatoes?? Is that cream cheese?? :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
On the recipe board for this week:<br />
Some kind of pumpkin cranberry bread? Care to share a recipe??<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/oatmeal-apple-cranberry-scones-118506">Oatmeal Scones that look great!</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ahealthypassion.com/2011/10/23/pumpkin-ginger-cookies/#comment-8409">Pumpkin Ginger Cookies </a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zPu1Nrui6YU/TqqX2yYqx2I/AAAAAAAAN6c/GuODtJB-SDQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-10-28+at+7.57.09+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zPu1Nrui6YU/TqqX2yYqx2I/AAAAAAAAN6c/GuODtJB-SDQ/s320/Screen+shot+2011-10-28+at+7.57.09+AM.png" width="233" /></a></div>
<a href="http://heathereatsalmondbutter.com/recipes/heabified-nutri-grain-bars/">Nutri-Grain Bars</a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zTH6eBahhVY/TqqYBSa-emI/AAAAAAAAN6k/XhJX2lrYuzs/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-10-28+at+7.57.50+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zTH6eBahhVY/TqqYBSa-emI/AAAAAAAAN6k/XhJX2lrYuzs/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-10-28+at+7.57.50+AM.png" /></a></div>
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What's on your list?<br />
<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-52751179978925073372011-10-26T19:14:00.001-04:002011-10-26T19:14:31.520-04:00Winner of the Compression Shorts - Aspaeris<a href="http://jessicamused.blogspot.com/">Jessica! </a>You are the winner of the awesome Aspaeris compression pivot shorts. Lucky girl!<br />
Please email me your info! tosha25italia at yahoo.<br />
<br />
Everyone else thanks for entering!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-81237652606829745762011-10-26T14:45:00.001-04:002011-10-26T14:45:36.419-04:00To run or not to run<b>RUN OR REST??? </b><br />
Here is my schedule this week so far:<br />
Monday - swim - that seems like it was 2 weeks ago! (moving day!)<br />
Tuesday - 5+ miles - easy<br />
Wednesday - spin and lift<br />
Thursday - easy run? abs? elliptical? something else? OFF?<br />
Friday - swim<br />
Saturday- maybe nothing<br />
Sunday - 26.2!<br />
<br />
I just realized that if I do a couple miles on Saturday there will be no off day this week. I want my legs to be rested, so what is my best bet here??<br />
<br />
<b>CAKE CONTEST!</b><br />
There's a cool Cake Boss contest going on and<a href="http://taketimetosmelltherose.blogspot.com/2011/10/please-help.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+taketimetosmelltherose+%28Take+time+to+smell+the+rose%29"> Chari </a>made a sweet 4th of July cake (seriously, so talented). <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150365973587767&set=a.10150359299447767.368690.337698447766&type=1&theater">Check it out and "like" her cake! </a>That counts as a vote. I really think she did a great job with it!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9VLUygGgO44/TqhVNymM4JI/AAAAAAAAN2g/w2yRv5jKAn8/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-10-26+at+2.48.04+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9VLUygGgO44/TqhVNymM4JI/AAAAAAAAN2g/w2yRv5jKAn8/s320/Screen+shot+2011-10-26+at+2.48.04+PM.png" width="252" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>BAKING</b><br />
We're settling in to the new place and I really want to make some thin mints. I can't find any of our extracts, ugh!! I might just have to make the batter.<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>MOMS</b><br />
For stay at home moms - how do you deal with feeling lonely? Do you feel lonely?<br />
I feel like I need to meet up with a friend almost every day to have someone to talk to. How do you plan our your week?<br />
<br />
<b>JACKETS to DONATE?</b><br />
In addition, I saw this on Peas and Thank you! Do you have any warm coats that you don't use anymore? Donate them! Check out <a href="http://onewarmcoat.org/">this site.</a><br />
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<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5469780206027563404.post-68672924767130184962011-10-26T14:35:00.003-04:002011-10-26T14:35:43.889-04:00Help make a difference with CamelBak<div class="yiv1582458485MsoNormal" style="text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Do you use CamelBak products? When I think of CamelBak, I think of the bag that goes on your back for long runs to hydrate you. I never got into them, but I have gone from the <a href="http://www.camelbak.com/Sports-Recreation/Bottles/CamelBak-Groove-6L.aspx">CamelBak Groove</a> - which has the built in filter, to the<a href="http://www.camelbak.com/Sports-Recreation/Bottles/Podium-Big-Chill-25oz.aspx"> CamelBak Chill </a>which is great for biking and is what I now carry around. CamelBak is really trying to reduce the need for single use water bottles and they have also teamed with Water.org to provide drinking water to those who do not have it.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">The website has been updated and has some cool features worth checking out, including a tag reader when scanned by a smartphone that will direct consumers to detailed product information, "The Lab" which includes behind</span><span style="line-height: 150%;">-the-scenes video
of CamelBak products hydrating NASA astronauts, as well as research,
development and testing videos of its most recent product innovations, a detailed</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; line-height: 150%;"><span></span></span><span style="line-height: 150%;"> search capability that directs people to the hydration option best suited for them based on activity, capacity, look and season, and more. </span></span></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">For the holidays, CamelBak<sup>®</sup>
and Water.org™ will be teaming up for the 2nd year to help all those who lack access to safe water. With the purchase of a
limited-edition Water.org reusable water bottle, $10 will go directly
to support Water.org’s mission of providing
clean, safe water to those in need.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x0rzEKUKQiM/TqhSllU8zUI/AAAAAAAAN2I/X8uSoB9lwiU/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-10-26+at+2.25.42+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x0rzEKUKQiM/TqhSllU8zUI/AAAAAAAAN2I/X8uSoB9lwiU/s320/Screen+shot+2011-10-26+at+2.25.42+PM.png" width="144" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><b>Water.org</b> was co-founded by Matt Damon and has provided access to clean water in Africa, South Asia and Central America. </span>
</span><br />
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<div class="yiv1055721372MsoPlainText" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">Water.org and CamelBak have created a limited time custom
design for the <a href="http://nannersbread.blogspot.com/2011/03/camelbak-groove-review-giveaway.html">CamelBak Groove™</a>.The
artwork evokes the ripple effect of water droplets and is available in
BPA-free Tritan plastic for $25 or insulated
stainless steel for $35.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"> These would make a great holiday gift! They are available at<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Limited-Water-org-CamelBak-Groove-Bottle/dp/B005EMCUEI/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1319653431&sr=8-4"> Amazon</a> or <a href="http://gift.water.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://gift.Water.org.</a> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/CamelBak">Like CamelBak on Facebook</a> to spread the word. When 100,000 fans are reached on the facebook page, they will have raised $50,000</span> for water.org.<br />
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<br />N.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07718741327199643323noreply@blogger.com0