The most fabulous running shorts in the world...

Yesterday I went to Target while B was at MDO. I could wander around that store for hours and not grow weary. I had tons of diaper coupons that were going to expire, so I got a few more packages of diapers for Beta and a few packages for Benjamin. Two kids in diapers. Insane. And so we know, I have 364 size 1 diapers. It would take B so long to get through that!

I digress. After my cart was loaded I began my meandering and stumbled upon the most fabulous running shorts in the world!!!!! I even looked at target.com so I could give you a visual, but they are not there. They must be brand new. And there were matching tanks. Sigh. Now that I think about it, they weren't even on a specific rack. They were on the new-clothes-to-put-out double rack.

Now, I enjoy clothes. In fact, I love the satisfaction of finding a new pair of jeans that fit or a great top that is on sale. But more than normal, everyday clothes - I LOVE RUNNING CLOTHES!

I'm a firm believer in having work out clothes that make you feel good, that move with you and are good quality. I guess that Target isn't Nike, but my current favorite running shorts are from Target and they are still excellent (and on hiatus). Either way, I could spend ALL of my monthly clothes budget on workout clothes. AND if I had any money in my clothes budget (I am currently using my clothes budget to buy massages to get rid of sciatic nerve pain) I would have bought those shorts in an instant, I tell you!

Let me tell you about them. They are short. Tight. Black. With a rim of color at the top. And $25. That seems a little steep to me, but I would pay it. I cannot lie.

I told Patrick last night that I should have bought them so I could hang them somewhere and see them every day. Then I would tell myself, "Those shorts are going to go through training and a half marathon with you. Get ready!" That's good motivation. The matching tank isn't nearly as motivating, but I think there's nothing wrong with having a matching tank to the most fabulous running shorts in the world.

Also, a disclaimer: I cannot tell you that these shorts really are the most fabulous running shorts in the world because I have not tried them on. Although I wanted to, I just knew that I would have to try on the large and that in real life I do not wear a large in running shorts. These shorts may be awful, but when I saw them I got a good feeling about how fabulous they were and I'm going to stick with that.

When I was at the YMCA this morning, some woman had on the "matching tank" and pants that, I suppose, are in the same line as the shorts. That made me want them more, even though I can't wear either right now. Maybe I should just go get the shorts.

Getting my groove back...

I guess I would consider myself athletic. Running races, working out and being in, over all, very good health would at least give me a little nod toward being an athlete, right?! :) This pregnancy has slowed me down quite a bit and that's been really hard for me. Gaining weight isn't a problem, I expect that to happen. But not being able to do any kind of physical activity for 9 weeks was tough for me.

Over the last 10 days, I've been able to work out a lot more. It's been so nice, but very hard. Regaining endurance has been tough. Since I have this weird breathing issue with Beta, being able to do any kind of activity is just hard. Literally. Walking up the stairs, grocery shopping, daily things cause me to lose my breath. Standing causes me to get light headed and I have a hard time breathing. So running, doing zumba and lifting weights has proven to be a challenge. But I'm up for it.

I'm blessed to be surround by healthy pregnant women at the YMCA. There's always a pregnant woman working out, which is so encouraging to me! Plus, it's great motivation. ("If she can do it, then I can do it!") I ran a 5k last weekend and did horrible! It was my slowest race, ever, and it was freezing. But I loved getting back into something I love. After that I started developing a mental workout plan for myself. I have the wonderful benefit of knowing what it's like working out when I'm pregnant (and what I would change) and how to put together a plan and be mindful of sweet Beta.

I set a few goals for myself, which include the following:

*Lift weights twice per week - for at least 15 minutes.

*Add more cardio. When I was pregnant with Benjamin, I did a lot of weight training. But I would exhaust myself and end up short changing the cardio. I see now how beneficial that extra cardio would have been during my recovery after delivery. Plus, it would have been really helpful to have had more endurance, in general, throughout my pregnancy.

*Do yoga once a week, starting this week. Prenatal yoga was so helpful to me when I was pregnant with B, but I didn't start until about 32 weeks. I used a really great podcast and did the yoga routine in my living room. I would like to start doing that sooner this time around.

*Run two more 5k's before Beta is born. Which I am totally capable of, it's just finding them that's hard :) Running was something that I didn't keep up with well when I was pregnant with B. But I'm (was) in much better shape this time and running is the sport I really enjoy. It comes as second nature to me once I get my sneakers on. My legs just know what to do!

This morning I did an excellent weight training routine that really challenged me, but was very doable. I spent about 12 minutes on the treadmill before I was too tired! Doing cardio after weight training right now is pretty tough. I need to be mindful to do something a little easier! I do have to watch myself on the treadmill, though. I only allow myself to run at a 4.5 or lower. This is hard, mentally, for me because before I got pregnant I couldn't easily run a 6.5 on the treadmill, faster if I was outside! But I know this season is so short and I want my baby and my body to be as safe and healthy as possible!

I'm so glad to be getting back into working out more regularly. It's good for my sanity, my stress level and my attitude. I'm so amazed at how something so simple could change so much of me. Lucky for me, I love doing it. Here's to another active and healthy pregnancy, my friends!

Race #2

Yesterday was my second race. I was completely nervous and thought I was going to throw up on the way there. I didn't train much (again) and was sure I would go into cardiac arrest from running FIVE miles. I was so nervous that I forgot my iPod and we had to turn around to go back and get it :) Luckily we weren't too far into the 40 minute drive there.

When we got there, I checked in and went to the bathroom about eight times :) There was a carnival close by (that Patrick and Benjamin enjoyed while I was running!) and people everywhere. I was slightly intimidated by the 30 people I saw wearing "Pittsburgh Marathon" t-shirts. Oh boy. What did I get myself into?

It was just me, my music and the road. Oh and 300 other runners around me. I kept a slow, easy pace (passing only a few annoying or slow runners). I admired the scenery and checked my heart rate monitor often. I sang to myself and out loud a few times :) I really enjoyed running the race alone.

When I saw the finish line was near, I picked up my pace a little and sprinted in. It was raining a little, but it was so refreshing! I finished the race in 56 minutes and 24 seconds - under my goal of one hour! I felt really great after I was done and was so proud of myself. Pretty good for being so nervous :)

Now I'm really considering if doing the VA beach Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon (Labor day weekend) is something I want to do. Whew. So much to think about!!!

Playing with Benjamin to calm me down :)
My nervous face...
Laughing with Patrick...
Starting line...

Coming into the finish line... striking a pose, of course :)
Me and Benjamin - 16 weeks after having him. Whew!
Family shot!
Patrick and Benjamin. My sideline cheering section - they were great at supporting me and cheering me on. Aren't they incredibly cute and wonderful? I think so!

Running tunes..

I love good running music. I'm not too picky and will listen to (mostly) anything with a good beat for a good work out. Yesterday, while I was running, I made a mental top 13 list for running. I may put these songs in order on my ipod for my next race. The race is a 5 miler (and the deciding factor in my thinking of doing a 1/2 marathon in September) and I'm thinking I can probably finish in just under an hour. That would give me an 11 minute (or so) mile and I could use up this awesome play list :)

Anyways, here is my list:
Warm up/starting east -
"I told you so" - Keith Urban

Speeding it up a bit -
"Viva la Vida" - Coldplay
"American Boy" - Estelle feat Kanye West
"Break it off" - Rihanna & Sean Paul

Peak -
"Sandstorm" - Darude
"Stronger" - Kanye West
"Everytime we touch" - Cascada
"4 minutes" - Madonna feat Justin Timberlake and Timberland
"Boom Boom Pow" - Black Eyed Peas (*Hey BEP's, send me a few of your cds!)

Bringing it back down -
"Please don't stop the music" - Rihanna
"Tamborine" - Eve
"One, two step" - Ciara

Cooling down -
"Hips don't lie" - Shakira feat Wyclef Jean

I'm really into Kanye right now. If only that kid wouldn't drop the f-bomb so much I'd listen to a lot more. However, he never fails to give me a good beat. Same goes from Black Eyed Peas. Boom Boom Boom. :)

Meeting my goal...

My goal, after having Benjamin, was to run a 5k. If that went well, I'd move on. I've already committed to three races so far this summer! I love the excitement of a race, training, free things (hee hee) and the satisfaction of crossing the finish line.

Yesterday was my first race, a 5k in Pittsburgh. I kind of trained for it, but it's been a hectic few weeks. All in all, I think I trained maybe five weeks to run this thing. I would run when I could (because to run, someone needs to watch the babe) and would go to workout classes and do P90X dvd's to build my strength and endurance.

My friend, Jennifer, decided last minute to run with me and I'm so glad she did. It was nice to have a race buddy and to have someone to keep me going. If I was alone, I may have walked the last leg of the race. Accountability is good on so many levels :) Jenn's husband and four kids, plus Patrick, Benjamin and Piper cheered us on and took some pictures. I left my camera at home, but Todd got some great shots and shared them with us.

I finished the race in 34 minutes (and three seconds). I was bummed I didn't finish closer to a 10 minute mile, but I can work on that for the next race (which is a 5 mile run on July 3). I walked for about 20 seconds three times to work out a cramp in my side. The course was pretty hilly and I wasn't expecting that! When we hit the last hill, I was really feeling it. I kept saying, I just gave birth, I just gave birth. I wanted to remind myself that it was okay that I wasn't in perfect shape and was having a hard time breathing :)

My goal, really, was to finish this race and I did that. I met my first post-pregnancy goal! Jennifer got 2nd place in her ago group!!! I told her it was nice to run races with her because we would never be competing in the same age group (we are 10 years apart). I was 15 out of 20 in my age group - boo for me. I'm proud of myself, though, for sticking to my goals and finishing with a smile on my face (even if it was forced and I couldn't breathe).

So here are some pictures to remember the event!

Ready to run...
Almost to the finish line...
Post race. Jenn with a medal, me with a baby :)
Family shot. Plus an orange in my hand.
And I wanted to make sure I got a picture with just me and Benjamin. I wanted to see a picture of me pregnant, right after delivery and then 13 weeks later...

I think this was 40 1/2 weeks

2 days after giving birthWith my baby, 13 weeks later...
One race down. Bring on the next one!

Thoughts on baby weight...

My weight has always been an issue for me. When I started working out and eating well, I really found something that I enjoyed and was passionate about. I love that the Lord has showed me this passion and that I can pursue it.

Before I got pregnant I was really comfortable with my body! For the first time in my life I liked my body, curves and all, and was grateful for what the Lord gave me. During pregnancy gaining weight and being able to work out was a huge struggle for me. Sure it was worth it, but it wasn't an easy journey. I was pleasantly surprised at how much weight you lose after a baby leaves your body.

I've been able to workout a little over the last week. Lifting weight, running and doing some ab work has been so good for me. Not only that, but lifting an 11 pound baby and carrying him around all day is great for the arms :) I know that my body isn't where it use to be, but every week I get a little closer. I know that my body may have changed permanently, but there is hope for smaller jeans yet!

My goal is to do a few races over the summer to get back into shape. I know I'm doing a 5k in August and I'm still looking into doing a few local 5 and 10k's. I'm really excited to watch my body change again, but this time get smaller :) Even though I gained 34 pounds while pregnant, I never reached the weight I was when I started working out a few years ago. I've lost 17 pounds and know that it's better that it comes off slowly. Breastfeeding helps and I'm very grateful for that!

Here are some pictures of my post-pregnancy body:

This is leaving the hospital 2 days after giving birth. I can't believe I actually had a baby inside me :) I was so much smaller just 2 days later. Unbelievable!
One week after giving birth...
This is today. 6 1/2 weeks after giving birth and fitting into my size 10 jeans. My goal is my old size 6 jeans. Here's hoping :)

For good measure, here is a picture of Benjamin. This little man came out of my body! How incredible.
Ok. One more. So precious :)

Ahhhhhh...

On Friday I laced up my sneakers, grabbed my ipod and heart rate monitor and took off. I ran. And I ran. And I ran. For 25 minutes. It was heavenly.

The breeze in my face. The sun beating down on neck. Bliss. I enjoyed every single sweaty second of my heart pounding, my music rocking and my feet hitting the pavement. This is exactly what I've needed, what I've missed, what refreshes my soul. So I did it again on Sunday. Run, baby, run!

Now, more than ever, I take advantage of the things that refresh me. After my run I sat on the back porch with the sunset and read Real Simple. How did I not thoroughly enjoy moments like these before? There's nothing like an hour of peace and quiet to calm you down after spending everyday with a six week old baby :) I suppose it doesn't take much to refresh me - a good run, a good magazine, a cup of hot tea, cleaning the kitchen, baking cookies. Little things, good things, my things.

So today, my friends, take a few minutes to enjoy something that refreshes you and brings you joy. Take a moment to pause and relish in the goodness of that refreshment - whatever it may be!

What can make a girl happy?

These things, of course!

(my running shoes, a 15 pound weight, a heart rate monitor, my ipod and some water!!!)

I have missed running and this week I've picked it back up. There are few things that can make me as happy as lacing up my running shoes, jamming to my ipod and going for a long run. To make it even better, give me some weights and 20 minutes at the end of my run and I'll be happy for the rest of the day!

It's so good to be running again. I think my shoes where starting to miss me :)

Zumba

Zumba and I, we have a special relationship. If you would have asked me two years ago if I would go to a Zumba class, I would have laughed hysterically and said no way! I didn't know much about this salsa dancing workout until we went to a "White Elephant" Christmas party. We "received" a box set of Zumba video tapes from the Cease's. Good times.

Once (this is a sad confession, but here I go!), I put a tape in to see why these Zumba videos were all the rage at the party. They had been graciously been passed around for some time. I did the workout on the tape and I laughed at the guy the whole way through. It was pretty ridiculous. (but I was sweating by the end)

Ah, but fast forward - me and my love move to small town USA with minimal workout options. No spinning, no dance classes for adults, no races, no fun. However, we are moving up friends! The YMCA has a new Zumba class (the old one did not include many folks under the age of 50, which slowed things down a bit)! The instructor is young and really energetic and makes seriously sassy faces while she's Zumba-ing. The sassy face thing is quite contagious, however, because I started doing it too.

Maybe it was spending six weeks in Venezuela with dance parties all the time. Maybe it was the salsa dancing lessons Patrick and I took. I don't know, but I' pretty sure I was made to salsa dance. Needless to say, I think I'll go back for some more Zumba next week! We've come a long way in our relationship.

Disclaimer: Since moving to Indiana, there is a seasonal spinning class (that's ok), I'm sure I could find dance classes and there are races all over this area. I don't hate Indiana, PA.

10k

Today was a busy day and started with an early morning. I am SO glad that we stayed the night in Altoona last night because it would have been horrible driving more than an hour to run. Plus, we had a great time hanging out with our friends!

The race was great. We ran the whole time (6.2 miles) and tried to enjoy each minute. It did rain and we were soaked, but it was so much fun. Al's finance, James, ran the race with us and it was fun to add him to our mix. Patrick and our friends Andre and Charity were cheering from the sidelines the whole time. They were super about popping up at the hard spots and whistling and screaming for us. One of my favorite times was when all three of them jumped on the course and ran behind us for a minute or two and encouraged us.

The last two kilometers were the hardest and I had to really focus mentally on running. When we were training, the longest we ran was 4.5 miles. So we were so excited to finish and run the whole six miles! We crossed the finish line together with a time of one hour and three minutes.

We stuck around to eat some oranges and drink some tea. We stretched out a bit and then, something happened: They gave out awards for the 10k race. We stopped to listen and cheer on our fellow runners. We were so excited to hear that James got second place in his age group. You can image our surprise to find out that Al got 2nd place in our age group AND I GOT FIRST PLACE! Yeeeeessssssssssss!

It was so fun and we placed! We've already talked about when we're going to do another one!

Pre-race: Al, Ash, James

Patrick and I hanging out before the race...
On the course. I think we were still in good spirits at this point :)
Just crossed the finish line!
Running buddies, medal winners! Can you tell we are so exhausted?
Posing with our medals and pretending to run. We had too much fun!

Cool Runnings

We are leaving in a bit to head to Altoona, PA. We're staying the night with some friends. Call it a co-ed slumber party. Homemade dinner, probably some games and lots of laughing.

Why are you going to Altoona? Oh right, my 10k is tomorrow. My friend, Allyson, and I are running 6.2 miles in the morning!!! I'm so excited. This is as close as I'll get to a triathlon this year and I'm eating it up! We've been training for five weeks and got in a really great 4.5 mile run on Thursday. The only bummer is this: rain and cool temps. Tomorrow morning is suppose to be wet and chilly in Altoona. I'm sure we'll survive!

Off we go!

A little shadow...

Before I got all the materials and such to become a personal trainer, I did my best to talk to people who had already went through the course and were currently training. One person, who was very encouraging, was a trainer at the YMCA. Her name is Carole and she was very nice to talk to me and tell me a few things about the course and such.

When we were talking, she mentioned that I should get ahold of her when I start studying and we could get together. I did and now I shadow her once a week. It's been an incredible opportunity to see, hands on, what it's like to train someone. I even get to help out occasionally. It's been great to get to know the clients and be apart of their workouts.

Carole has been great at making sure I know what's going on during the sessions and is always asking if I have questions. I do ask a lot of questions and take advantage of her willingness to share! She answers questions about workouts, the exam, machines, muscles and even people.

I've learned a lot about being a personal trainer in the last two and a half weeks. The material that I'm studying is hard and in depth. (Exercise physiology and Human Anatomy are my current chapters.) However, I'm completely fascinated by it and can barely put the book down sometimes. Learning about the body is incredible. The way God so uniquely, so consistently, so carefully made our bodies humbles me each time I learn something new. How incredible that He made our bodies the same, inside, so we can learn about how they work and what they can do!

On Friday, when I was shadowing Carole, she asked what I did on Thursday nights. I told her nothing and she offered me another opportunity to shadow her at another gym with some younger clients (we are currently training more elderly folks). I was so excited that she cares enough about me doing well and learning and that she likes me enough to invite me to shadow her more than just once a week!

I'm so excited for the doors that the Lord is kindly opening and I'm so thankful for the people He has ushered into my life for this season. God is so sweet to help me through this course! I know He, alone, will help me to know, remember and apply all the information I'm learning.