A Catholic Domestic Engineer

Yarn Along

2012-02-01T08:17:00.002-06:00

With each baby, I've crocheted a baptismal gown. Since learning how to knit, I decided to go outside my comfort zone and knit a baptismal gown for our newest little one. To me, each stitch is a little prayer for this little soul. It comforts me in my anxiety during pregnancy.

This is the beginning of the gown (again) starting from the waist going toward the feet. The pattern is "Ribbons and Lace Christening Gown".

My first knitting class was this past Saturday, basic socks. Last night, I finished my 'homework' which was to knit up to the heel. The pattern is a Men's Heavy Weight Boot Sock by Knitting Pure & Simple. Why I mens' sock, you ask? Well, I do have size 12-13 ladies feet. While knitting, I had two dropped stitches which I was able to fix myself thanks to the awesome Knitting Help app on my IPod.

I've been enjoying listening to the New Testament recommended by Elizabeth Foss. I am still reading Jillian Michael's Unlimited.

Check out the other Yarn Along's at Ginny's Blog

It's a boy!

2012-01-27T07:58:00.002-06:00

Homeschool Planning

2012-01-26T12:20:00.000-06:00

This is the time of year that I start looking at our overall curriculum, what's working or not. I start compiling a list of purchases that will need to be made for next school year for each child. Why? Usually, one of the school suppliers has an awesome Easter sale on everything, including the books that never go on sale. Also, planning now provides a list for me to have on hand when I'm at the thrift store or scanning the swap emails.

Mostly, we've been using Mother of Divine Grace's curriculum. For high school, I'm still evaluating what to exactly do. My goal is to prepare the children well so that if they want to go to college, they can ... hopefully doing well on the standardized tests and getting scholarships..

My homeschool planning work in progress is located on this page: Homeschool Plan

Yarn Along

2012-01-25T09:05:00.002-06:00

The sweater is finished up to the armholes. It's waiting a purchase of double point needles in the correct size in order to start the sleeves. Many people have oh'd and ah'd over the pattern in the sweater ... it's not me, it's the yarn. I'm curious to see if the sleeves will even match up with the pattern of the sweater since sleeves are a smaller circumference. The sweater is the Wallaby Pattern by Cottage Creations.

In the meantime, I'm back to working on the baptismal gown. Ripping it out was the right call.

Saturday is my first knitting class! I'm taking a basic sock class at the local yarn shop, The Crazy Girl Yarn Shop. Isn't that a fantastic name for a yarn shop! One of my knitting goals this year is to make socks that fit my size 12 women's feet. My husband gave me two knitting classes for my birthday. So for the next ten Saturdays, I have at least 2-3 hours all to myself. Hubby will either be home with the five children or taking them to a 4-H meeting (all five!). Best present ever!

Hubby came across the newest Jillian Michaels book, Unlimited at the library. I have most of her fitness books. They have been a tremendous part of helping me in changing my lifestyle, especially Master Your Metabolism. Unlimited is an unusual book. It's a self-help book written by someone who is not a therapist; though she was in therapy since the age of five, I believe.

I found it funny that early in the book she talks about quantum mechanics and string theory. Yes, we are all made of energy and are connected. Great way to describe the body of Christ at a sub-atomic level. (My connection, not hers) I'm confused on why she uses the language she does. To me, swearing is not lifting up others.

There have been a few points that I've written down to work on for myself. She does an excellent job in breaking down large goals into big size chunks. I've felt that that has been one of my strong points, but I haven't realized how many people struggle with that.

Join Ginny on Yarn Along.

Yarn Along

2012-01-04T10:18:00.000-06:00

The baptismal gown is on hold. I finished the gown portion and realized that the gauge was way too big, even for my babies. So, after tearing it all out, I've started again.

To offset my disappointment on redoing the gown, I finished my running hat. First time doing a Fairisle pattern. I wore it on a run the other day and it worked beautifully.

Since finishing the hat, I've cast on a sweater for myself. It's the Wallaby Pattern by Cottage Creations.

Re-reading "Large Family Logistics" by Kim Brenneman. With each pregnancy, I feel that I need to simplify even more.

For more Yarn Along's, check out Ginny's Blog.

Short of Goal but not on accomplishments

2011-12-31T14:21:00.000-06:00

Running goal for 2011 was 1111 miles.

Completed 828.4 miles which included two full marathons!

The start of baby #6 stopped my mileage for almost two months.

Overall, I'm proud of how I maintained my fitness this year even though a few injuries. My running goal for 2012 will be to just run when I'm able and after baby recovery work towards a half marathon for the fall. I, also, would like to work on my upper body strength ... and I finally found our P90X dvds from the move! I need to develop a plan and way to measure my progress in regards to the upper body strength.

Yarn Along

2011-12-21T10:24:00.001-06:00

Yarn Along

2011-12-14T08:46:00.001-06:00

Ravelry

With each baby, I've crocheted a baptismal gown. Since learning how to knit, I decided to go outside my comfort zone and knit a baptismal gown for our newest little one. To me, each stitch is a little prayer for this little soul. It comforts me in my anxiety during pregnancy.

This is the beginning of the gown starting from the waist going toward the feet. The pattern is "Ribbons and Lace Christening Gown". The author has been so helpful in answering my beginner questions.

I've just started working the picket edging. Learned a few new stitches thanks to my Knitting Help app on my IPod. On Saturday, I made a trip to the local yarn shop to pick up a few more skeins. I didn't create a gauge swatch for the baptismal gown and I'm pretty sure I'm off. Dear husband chuckled and commented that the gown will fit perfectly then. We tend to have larger babies and the previous baptismal gowns barely fit them when the kids were baptized at just two weeks of age!

While at the yarn shop, I picked up some yarn to knit myself a sweater. I've given myself permission to detour from the baptismal gown once the picket edging is finished. My next goal will be to finish my running hat that I started knitting last year and then to make the sweater for myself and my growing belly.

Each Advent, I work through "Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Padre Pio". It gives me little things to think about each day.

Today's is so fitting for me:

Prayer:
It seems that the moment I began to focus on the spiritual experience of Advent, Bethlehem became like a mirage shimmering across the desert, beckoning elusively, tantalizingly, then vanishing completely. O God of Soaring Eagles, raise me above this obscurity, that I might once again glimpse my destination, and discern the path that will lead me to you. Amen.
Advent Action:
I will spend thirty minutes today to "recharge my batteries" through simple prayer, quiet meditation, or a long-awaited nap.

Blessing:
May Jesus continue to totally possess your heart and treat you as a chose one. -Letters

For more Yarn Along's, check out Ginny's Blog.

Gaudete Sunday

2011-12-12T10:30:00.002-06:00

Our family tradition is to decorate for Christmas on Gaudete Sunday.

Here are some moments from our day:

Lil' Chef and Bumbershoot

Mr. T

Squeaker

Dear Husband helping pass out ornaments

A Family Tradition: Taking turns placing the angel on the tree. This year was Squeaker's.

The Christmas village that was given/inherited from my husband's Grandmother.

Little People Nativity set keeps the girls busy.

Lots of Hair likes to grab all the Mickey Mouse characters and give them kisses.

Waiting for Baby Jesus. Are you preparing?

The Three Kings making their way across the mantle.


An empty manger on the prayer table.

the finished tree

Yarn Along

2011-12-07T08:33:00.000-06:00

My progress so far on the baptismal gown is going well for this beginner; the gown is measuring 8 inches of the 13.5 inches before working the edging. I've had to take out two of the pattern rows so far to correct a mistake.

Any suggestions on how to fix mistakes? Basically, I just worked in reverse, undoing my stitches. Not sure if that's the best way or not.

I'm reading through "A Book of Saints for Catholic Moms", a Christmas present to myself. Been feeling that I need some extra encouragement in my vocation of motherhood.

Side note: the mug pictured was given to me on Mother's Day by my oldest. They go to Goodwill and each pick out a mug for me. I enjoy different coffee mugs and I love how the ones they pick out reflect their personality.

Check out Ginny's blog for more Yarn Alongs.

Happy St. Nicholas Day!!

2011-12-06T08:40:00.001-06:00

The children were delighted to find that St. Nicholas left them a personalized pig bank, legos, candy, snow fort makers, and a family movie. Have a blessed St. Nicholas Day!

Christmas Novena

2011-11-30T15:30:00.001-06:00

Happy Feast of St. Andrew

Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born
of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight, in Bethlehem, in piercing cold.

In that hour, vouchsafe, O my God! to hear my prayer and grant my desires,

through the merits of Our Saviour Jesus Christ, and of His Blessed Mother. Amen.

(It is piously believed that whoever recites the above prayer fifteen times a day
from the feast of St. Andrew (30th November) until Christmas will obtain what is asked.)

Imprimatur
+MICHAEL AUGUSTINE, Archbishop of New York
New York, February 6, 1897

Today starts the Christmas Novena. I recently learned of this novena so this afternoon I had some time to put together the chaplet. Unfortunately, I didn't have a St. Andrew medal on hand, but I did have a Sacred Heart of Jesus that was inherited. Not sure if Father will be blessing chaplets at Mass this evening, but I'll bring mine and pray the novena after Mass.

A beautiful printed novena card is available to download at JOYfilled Family.

Yarn Along

2011-11-30T09:23:00.000-06:00

With each baby, I've crocheted a baptismal gown. Since learning how to knit, I decided to go outside my comfort zone and knit a baptismal gown for our newest little one. To me, each stitch is a little prayer for this little soul. It comforts me in my anxiety during pregnancy.

This is the beginning of the gown starting from the waist going toward the feet. The pattern is "Ribbons and Lace Christening Gown". The author has been so helpful in answering my beginner questions.

Each Advent, I work through "Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Padre Pio". It gives me little things to think about each day.

A side note, the mug in the picture was inherited from my husband's grandmother. Each visit at her home, I would drink coffee with her and I would use the same mug. She made the strongest coffee ever. I miss her dearly.

For more Yarn Along's, check out Ginny's Blog.

Another Blessing

2011-11-29T10:16:00.001-06:00

A beautiful view of the newest blessing growing in my womb

Today

2011-11-28T12:49:00.001-06:00

Outside my window::
sunny and 33 degrees, but no snow :(

I am thankful for::
my health. The family experienced a nasty stomach bug which cut our Thanksgiving vacation short.

I am wearing::
jean maternity skirt and Packers sweatshirt

I am reading::
Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Padre Pio

I am hoping and praying::
for the protection of this new little soul in my womb

To live the Liturgy::
thinking of less school next year during the Advent season
enjoy learning the new translation of the Mass

I am creating::
a knitted baptismal gown

On my iPod::
an awesome knitting app

I am running::
no miles.

Around the house::
still a few unpacked boxes from the move

On the sewing front::
jumpers for Lil' Chef.

One of my favorite things::
children laughing

A few plans for the rest of the week::
appointment with the midwife today

A picture to share::

Monkey decorating cookies while wearing my favorite pj's!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T14:21:00.001-06:00

2011 Marquette Marathon

2011-09-13T19:26:00.000-05:00

Training has been difficult this time around. Hubby accepted a new job and was gone before us for a few months and then the move itself. Overall, my pace had slowed down compared to the previous marathon training partly due to the effort I made in hitting more on my forefoot rather than my heel.

Iowa has spoiled me on the amount of miles of bike paths that they have. So nice to not have to worry about traffic on long runs ... that and the lack of elevation. Though, I do have to say that I miss the hills. Crazy, I know.

I had signed up for this marathon back in January when I still lived an hour and a half away. A very good friend and homeschooling momma and I agreed to run it together. On Friday, the whole family drove eight hours from Iowa to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. My friend and I camped out in our own hotel room leaving our husbands to tend to the children in a different room. We talked past our bed times but who sleeps well the night before, right?

God blessed us with a fellow runner who offered to drive us to the start. I'd rather not have to wake my husband and five kids that early in the morning. Thanks be to God for prayers answered. I had asked my husband if he was nervous of a stranger driving us. His answer, "Marathoners are a breed all their own.

The sunrise was breathtaking.

The marathon course is two laps. Here's the description from the marathon website:

What’s the course like?

In a word, AWESOME! The course starts out at Presque Isle Park on the shores of Lake Superior. The majority of the course is on a bike path winding through woods, skirting the downtown, and passing by the Saturday morning farmers market. Best of all, ½ the race is along miles and miles of flat, fast, and gorgeous Lake Superior shoreline. There is one uphill at mile 12 and 25. It is an 1800 foot stretch that climbs 80 feet in the shade of an old growth stand of hemlocks. After “topping out”, you are rewarded with a fairly gradual downhill followed by a flat fast quarter mile stretch to the finish.

The first nine miles we were doing very well. We talked and talked and averaged a 11:37 pace. As the next miles progressed, my friends feet were not doing well. I had taken out my earbud because I noticed that the sound of her footsteps were different. It was painful listening to them. We started walking a bit more and our mile 12 split was 13:44 making the overall pace 11:56. She knew in her heart that she should stop but felt that she was bailing out on me. I told her that I was perfectly fine with continuing solo and that if she didn't stop, I would and then we would both not finish.

Mile 13.1 we were back at the starting line ready for the second lap. My friend was smart and stopped.

Half marathon time - 2:37:10 (12:00 pace) only 1 minute slower than my first marathon split in Green Bay!

I wasn't solo for long. By mile 14, hubby and the kids found me.

Bumbershoot ran out to give me a hug.

This course is very family friendly. There are so many parks for the kids to play at. Basically, we played leap frog for the rest of the marathon. Hubby would drive by with the windows down on the van. The kids would yell, "Go Mom Go". They would get out at a park and play. When I ran by, they would run along side and cheer. Hubby would pile them into the van and drive by with the windows down. The kids would cheer, etc. I had the best support crew at the marathon!

Mile 15

Mile 21

Lil' Chef and Squeaker running with me at mile 22

At Picnic Rocks, Mr. T joins in

Mile 24

Working ore dock in the background

Lil' Chef and Squeaker following me into the isle.

Lil' Chef, Squeaker, and Bumbershoot ontop the world's largest glacial copper.

Into the finish chute


Still smiling!

Second full marathon finish!

Husband looks proud, eh?

Waiting for a massage

Marathon time - 5:26:51 (12:29 pace) PR over the Green Bay marathon

Overall, I felt pretty good. My left knee was slightly tender but nothing like the first marathon. Fueling went well and I was glad that I brought the extra Roctane. I needed the extra sodium on the second lap. Thankful for no stomach issues!

I am sad that I didn't get any pictures with my good friend.

Thank you to my hubby, Lil' Chef, and Mr. T for taking pictures.

Bike Paths Galore!

2011-07-04T12:10:00.001-05:00

The bike paths around this area go on for miles and miles. Saturday's long run, 12 miles, was run on bike paths all but 2.5 miles (my house to the bike path) .. and that was just one of the many routes.

Saturday morning, I saw more than a dozen bicyclists. Three of them were in 'professional' gear. I also saw a husky dog :)

The route I took ran along the river on the south side. The north side route goes on for many more miles ... planning to do that route for my 20 miler.

Some pictures from the run:

Cellcom Marathon - May 15th

2011-06-05T19:27:00.075-05:00

I am a marathoner!!! Finishing my first marathon through Lambeau Field was incredible!

On Friday, I drove from Iowa to Green Bay. We had been house hunting all week. Saturday, my mom, my sister, a good friend, and I visited the expo and picked up our packets.

We also stopped at a local sporting goods store.

Me, Mom, and Sister with Cheese on our heads.

A free pasta dinner came with our race fee ... inside Lambeau!

The temperature was around 45 deg on the morning of the marathon. For me, it was nice ... for my mom and sister, it was freezing. You can tell by how much warmer they are dressed.

We had matching shirts made for our first marathon.

I had name bibs and grace bands made from Races to Remember

The name bibs were sweet. Spectators were yelling our names and cheering us on.

We also wore a grace band.

Every mile, we prayed for a different intention

I decided to wear my Camelbak Octane XCT with Nuun in the bladder. I had used it on all my long training runs and didn't want to chance an upset stomach with the Gatorade.

The first half of the marathon went well except for the five minute bathroom break at mile 5. Our half marathon split was 2:36:48 (11:58)

The second half was very windy ... 30 mph with 40-50 mph gusts and it was coming straight at ya. Mom started to have a lot of problems with her knees so we walked more.

Running through Lambeau was the best last mile of the race that I have ever experienced.

Running around Lambeau field

Finish time: 5:38:06 - 12:53 pace

Thank you Mom and Little Sister for the memories of a lifetime!

Oh the places we go!

2011-06-05T17:25:00.000-05:00

It's been crazy for the past two months. My husband was unjustly let go from his job up here. Fortunately, he saw the writing on the wall and had been applying for jobs. They let him go on Friday and the new job offer came Monday morning.

The week before my first marathon, the kids and I were house hunting.

So, we are moving from this (3950 sqft):

To this (2233 sqft):

Also, we were in the middle of remodeling part of the upstairs. It was set up as an apartment. We were taking out the kitchen and making it into a master bedroom and bath. Dear husband sanded the floors before leaving for his new job.

After my first marathon on May 15th (recap coming soon), I refinished the floors, painted the walls, replaced outlets, and moved furniture in.

It turned out beautiful ....

Skirts or Pants?

2011-04-06T15:01:00.000-05:00

For some time now, I've been contemplating how I dress and how my four daughters dress. Currently, I am wearing a jean skirt but that is more unusual than the norm. I'm mostly a jean (pants) type of gal, but situations over the past six years have made me re-think what I wear.

One thing that I find funny though is that 90% of my running wardrobe is skirts, either from Skirt Sports or Running Skirts.

The following video was posted on The Modest Mom and has me back to thinking...

The Tale of a Braid

2011-03-24T16:59:00.000-05:00

Lots of Hair does not sit still while her hair is brushed. She detests having anyone brush her hair or touch her hair. Today, after her bath, I was able to brush her hair quickly and I noticed that she was still sitting still ... though I admit she was watching Go, Diego, Go. Earlier in the week, I had braided the older girls' hair so I thought that I would attempt it. Lots of Hair actually let me finish!

Happy Birthday, monkey

2011-03-08T16:12:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to my little monkey!

On birthday day, she wanted to wear her SpiderMan pj's that were passed down from big brother.

I asked if she wanted a cake for her birthday ... no, cupcakes. This kid likes making things easily for me. God love her!

Lots of Hair was taking a nap

ABC's of Me

2011-03-05T16:00:00.000-06:00

I've enjoyed other bloggers ABC's of Me, so I thought that I'd play too. I struggle some days on what to blog.

(A) Age: I have to do the math on that one ... I forget, honestly, I do.
(B) Bed Size: King but feels like a twin when there are 1-3 kiddos in it.
(C) Chore You Hate: Too hard to choose
(D) Dogs: No dogs ... two cats
(E) Essential Start Your Day Item: Shower
(F) Favorite Color: Purple, have you noticed the text?
(G) Gold or Silver: Gold
(H) Height: 6' 0"
(I) Instruments You Play: The piano .. better than my six year old, but not as well as my 8 & 11 year olds.
(J) Job Title: Domestic Engineer, Teacher, Mom, Chef, Maid, CEO of the Household....
(K) Kids: 4 girls and 1 boy, not in that order
(L) Live: Upper Peninsula of Michigan
(M) Mom’s Name: Marian
(N) Nicknames: Princess ... given by my husband when we were dating ... though I'm not the princess type
(O) Overnight Hospital Stays: 5 (see K above)
(P) Pet Peeve: Not picking up after yourself
(Q) Quote from a Movie:
(R) Right or Left Handed: Right
(S) Siblings: 2 younger sisters and 1 younger brother, not in that order
(T) Time You Wake Up: 5:22
(U) Underwear: I've heard of runners not wearing this ...
(V) Vegetable You Dislike: hmmm
(W) What Makes You Run Late: kids
(X) X-Rays You’ve Had Done: top of my right foot ... thought I had a running stress fracture
(Y) Yummy Food You Make: Stromboli, Granola, Pancakes
(Z) Zoo, Favorite Animal: the Giraffe

Nun Run 2011

2011-03-03T17:43:00.000-06:00

I was asked to be a shadow participant in the annual Nun Run on March 12th. The run is actually taking place in Tempe, AZ. Since I don't have unlimited funds at my disposable, I opted for the shadow option. I'll be running the race 'virtually', ie on my roads and then reporting in.

This order, Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration, is one of my favorites. Why?

The focus is on Jesus.
Perpetual Adoration is to constantly give thanks to Our Lord
Full habits
From the order that Mother Angelica founded in the U.S. (EWTN) more history here
The race motto is awesome. "Nun Run...it's a great habit to be in!"

The nuns are in the process of raising funds to build a monastery for 28 nuns. Could you join me and give any amount you can?

Give Here

One of these years, I want to run with the nuns!

9 miles wasn't enough

2011-02-19T19:03:00.000-06:00

What? "9 miles wasn't enough" To hear that thought in my head feels like someone else saying it. It was true this morning though. This week is a recovery week for my marathon training. 'Only' nine miles for my long run instead of double digits.

Yesterday, the children had a difficult time listening and obeying. Dear husband has been working so much the past few months that I feel like a single mom. He's been working on three R&D projects ... not one, but three all due in a short amount of time.

I'm so thankful that I started running over a year ago. Running has helped me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I can spend miles talking over with God what is going on in my life. This morning, I could have used a few more miles. Looking forward to Monday's run, Wednesday's tempo run, Thursday run, and Saturday's long run.

Winter Carnival 2011

2011-02-14T10:25:00.001-06:00

"Thousands of Pages Unfold in the Bitter Cold" was the theme for this year's Winter Carnival at the university that my husband and I met. Each year, the students build snow and ice sculptures ... what else is one to do with all the snow?

The temperature was a warm 38 degrees.

Jurassic Park

Bilbo Baggins and the three trolls

Three Little Pigs

Rainbow Fish

The Little Engine That Could

The Bible

The Bible - In the Beginning

The Bible - For God so loved the world

The Bible

Broomball (brooms instead of hockey sticks and a ball instead of a puck)

Alice in Wonderland

The old woman who lived in a shoe ... had so many children, she didn't know what to do. LOL

Clifford, the big red dog

A library with different stories

The university's ski hill

The lift bridge over the portage

Dining at the local restaurant called, "The Ambassador"

Dear Husband enjoying a Sweet Tart Fishbowl ... memories from college days.

Full Marathon outfit

2011-02-10T09:30:00.000-06:00

Thinking about what to wear for my first full marathon.

Discovered that NikeStore.com offers customizable shirts.

How about this:

Green Bay Packer colors
26.2 on the front
My name on the back and on the sleeve ... for strangers to cheer for me
The number 11 on the back for the year 2011

Check out the
Nike Pro - Core Fitted Short-Sleeve iD Top
I designed at NIKEiD.com

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T13:33:00.000-06:00

Woot!! Woot!!! Packers are Super Bowl Champs!!!

2011-02-08T15:27:00.000-06:00

The Lombardi trophy is home!!!

The Green Bay Packers are Super Bowl Champs!!!!

And the finish line of my first marathon will be.....

wait for it.....

Lambeau Field ... home of Super Bowl Champions!!!

Finalized my training schedule

2011-02-03T08:36:00.000-06:00

I'm finally happy with my training schedule.

With training plans from many different sources (Smart Coach, Hal Higdon, Run Like a Mother), I put together one just for me. One of my goals this year is to remain injury free. I focused on building up my mileage for the marathon slowly and having a recovery week every three weeks. I'm more concerned with finishing injury free than time. I will admit though that my pace does get me down some. Need to stop comparing myself to others....

At the top of my blog, there's a new page with my training plan.

Friends are such a blessing!

2011-01-22T20:00:00.000-06:00

Temperatures have been cold lately. I have a very difficult time mentally running on a treadmill. The goal this weekend was to run 6-7 miles ... a recovery week. So funny to hear me say 'only' 6-7 miles. Saturday's weather was -2 deg F with a windchill of -15 deg F.

Fortunately, I have found a dear woman who enjoys running outside in all kinds of weather. Thanks Sandy for joining this crazy lady this morning. The 6.5 miles flew by and the temperature seemed warmer in your company.

Registered for my first full marathon

2011-01-10T17:59:00.000-06:00

I'm registered for my first full marathon! May 15, 2011

I'm so excited. The most exciting is that my mom and my little sister will be running it will me.

My goals are:

To finish
To finish holding my mom's hand and she holding my sister's hand.
To run it in 5 hours or less

Winter Running - What to wear?

2011-01-08T15:44:00.000-06:00

This morning's long run was a bit slow. Running through freshly fallen snow of over 1 1/2 inches is a bit of a challenge. The temperature was 13 deg F with a windchill of 0 deg F.

So, what does a person wear?

Here's my outfit from this morning:

Head:
   Smartwool Headband
     Smartwool Balaclava

Tops:
     Athleta Sierra Long Sleeve top with thumbholes and fold over ends
     Athleta Cascada Vest
     Ascis Storm Shelter Jacket (to block the wind)

Hands:
     Smartwool glove liners
     Asics running mitts

Bottoms:
     Nike running pants with fleece on the inside (in talls!)
     Asics storm shelter pants (to block the wind)

If my hands start to get too warm, the running mitts can fold over.

The openings on my jacket are adjustable (see the two zippers in the middle). When the running against the wind, I keep them closed. When the wind is at my back, I tend to warm up.

Last winter, I ran with YakTrax Pro on the bottom of my shoes. They worked well, but only lasted one season. This year, I opted to try sheet metal screws. Work just as well and really nice on the budget. A how-to guide is here.

I also wear a Road ID on every run. On my early morning runs, I wear a Black Diamond Sprinter headlamp.

Another awesome giveaway

2011-01-08T11:07:00.002-06:00

http://runtohealth.blogspot.com/2010/12/zesah-leg-sleeves-giveaway.html

Awesome giveaway

2011-01-08T11:01:00.002-06:00

http://www.runcourtrun.com/2011/01/cep-compression-socks-review-and.html

2010 Running Review

2011-01-04T22:01:00.000-06:00

2010 was my first full year of running.

Ran 780.5 miles
Highest weekly mileage: 29.1 - July 12
Highest monthly mileage: 97.3 - July

Ran 12 official races:

May 8: Journey's Race

31:39 (10:13 pace) - 8/18 in my division; 62/153 for women

10K Trail

June 19: Keyes Peak Trail Run

1:14:32 (6.44 mi) / 1:11:47 (10K) 11:35 pace

1st in my age group!; 9/21 women

10K Road

July 3: Bessemer Hometown Run

1:05:49 (10:35 pace)

3/4 in age group; 29/42 in women; 83/103 overall

July 11: Bass Festival Race

1:04:32 PR (10:27 pace)

10/11 in age group; 33/39 in women; 68/78 overall

July 31: Rodeo Race

1:02:53 PR (10:07 pace)

1st place in my age group!!

1/2 in age group; 6/8 in women; 17/19 overall

Oct. 30: Chase the Pumpkin
1:06:43 (10:30)

Nov. 25: Thanksgiving Day Race

1:10:21 (11:21 pace)
342 / 602 in my age group; 3135 / 5488 in women; 7312 / 10756 overall

12K Trail

June 5: Blueberry Ridge Trail

1:28:11 (11:50 pace) - 5/7 in my division; 36/42 for women

15K Trail

Aug. 7: Lake Antoine Classic

1:42:11 PR (10:57)

Half Marathon

June 26: Charlevoix, MI

2:25:29 - 11:07 pace

25/31 in age group; 186/243 women; 343/479 overall

July 17: Virtual Race - Half Marathon

2:25:16 PR (11:04 pace)

Official Results of the Unofficial Event: click here

Sept. 4: Ringside Fitness Marquette

2:23:34 PR (10:57)

32 in age group; 93 in women

Oct. 9: Harbor Springs

2:25:54 (11:08)

Running and Rambling

2010-12-17T10:51:00.003-06:00

http://www.runningandrambling.com/

"And I'm back in the game!"

2010-12-12T12:00:00.000-06:00

"And I'm back in the game!" is one of our favorite quotes from the movie, "Ten Things I Hate About You"

That's how I felt after my two mile test run on Friday. I wanted to go further, but I listened to my head and only ran two. So funny to hear myself say that when a little over a year ago I couldn't even run a mile.

I am so excited. Friday's run was great. I do need to get out my Yak Trax for Monday's run. We've had over a 13 inches of snow this weekend. Monday looks cold too ... 1 deg F for the low.

Monday's goal: 2 miles with a 5 to 1 run/walk ratio

This Momma has not been happy

2010-12-09T20:53:00.000-06:00

This injury of my left foot has dampened my spirits. I haven't ran since Thanksgiving Day. I couldn't put any pressure onto my forefoot. I am going crazy. The thing is is that I could have focused my energy on cross training. Why haven't I? I gave into the temptation of dwelling in my pity ... until today.

This afternoon while Lots of Hair was napping, I did the first workout of Jillian Michael's Hot Bod in a Box. Wow, did she kick my butt! Trouble was downstairs with me cheering me on and counting with me. I asked if she would be my personal trainer. Her response, "Go, Mom, Go!"

My quads are sore and my arms are shaky. Boy, does it feel good! My mood totally changed this afternoon so much so that I'm a bit sassy. =)

The x-ray results came back with no stress fracture and no dislocation. I do have a small heel spur on the ankle; shouldn't it be called an ankle spur then?

It's been snowing here and I want to go out and run in it. My foot feels pretty good. I probably could have run on it today since the circuit training didn't aggravate it at all. My goal is to try two miles tomorrow. I have Gunner (my garmin) set up for a 4 to 1 run/walk interval. If that's successful, I'll try a 5 to 1 ratio on Monday and keep it at two miles until those feel comfortable and pain-free.

How have you come back from injury?

Happy Feast of St. Nicholas!

2010-12-06T10:03:00.000-06:00

Today is the feast day of St. Nicholas of Myra

The company where we work had a party for the children. The children wrote letters to St. Nick, decorated cookies, and each received a gift.

Lil' Chef reading her letter. The P.S. asked St. Nick to join The Biggest Loser

Mr. T after eating a cookie with green frosting.

Squeaker

This is the closest Trouble would get to him.

Lots of Hair just before screaming

Thanksgiving Day 10K Race Recap

2010-12-02T22:08:00.000-06:00

A week has gone by and I have not updated my blog on my Thanksgiving Day 10K. Maybe because it was my PW (Personal Worst) 10K.

After driving for eleven hours, we arrived at my mom's house in Kentucky. My sister and I had signed up for the local Thanksgiving Day 10K race / fun run.

The morning of the race, rain was coming down pretty steadily. My sister bailed on me. She didn't want to get wet ... worried about melting since she's pretty sweet.

I decided that I was going anyway. I hadn't run in over a week in prayer that my left foot would feel better to run on. It didn't feel the greatest, but after a few Tylonel, I could run without limping. I was so determined to run. Running has been such a great joy and stress reliever for me.

I drove myself to downtown Cincinnati. The race was to start and end at the Paul Brown stadium, where the Cincinnati Bengals play. Parking was surprisingly easy.

People were huddling inside the stadium since it was raining.

Waiting for the start.

The people behind me. The rain had stopped.

Before the start. Lovin' my new ipod.

By the time I was at the starting line, the clock was running for almost twelve minutes. This was my first big city race. There were 12,000 runners.

Mile 1: 10:52
First mile was slower than what I wanted. I was constantly weaving around other runners trying to get into my groove.

Mile 2: 10:15
Feeling good and in the groove.

Mile 3: 11:13
Left foot is starting to really hurt. The course took us over the first bridge that crosses the river.

Mile 4: 11:36
Saw a couple dressed as an Indian (bow and arrow) and a Pilgrim.

Mile 5: 11:55
Another bridge crossing back over the river. Left foot is crying.

Mile 6: 11:33
The end is in sight and I focused on enjoying the race. Of course, people watching was a hoot!

The last 0.2: 11:26
Passed by a gentlemen who had collapsed from a heart attack. The paper covered the story and he had lived. He was fortunate that two nurses were running just a few yards behind him and administered CPR within seconds of his collapse. Also, a young runner ran off course to get the ambulance which was only a block away. The gentleman ended up having a quadruple bypass and is on his way to recovery.

Official Results:

1:10:21

(11:21 pace)

342 / 602 in my age group

3135 / 5488 in women

7312 / 10756 overall

Finished!

Yes, It is November and Happy Birthday Lil' Chef!

2010-11-13T18:07:00.000-06:00

Mother Nature finally decided that it was time. November has been on the warm side for us and the kids have been anxiously waiting for the first snowfall. Wait no longer, children...

Before my 9 mile run

Looking outside, the pavement didn't seem too slushy. Therefore, I wore my Asics Nimbus instead of my trail shoes. At mile 6, my foot stepped into a huge puddle of freezing water. My toes were frozen for a mile. Note to self: When in doubt, wear the trail shoes.

My beloved running path ... may be one of the last times running on it until spring =(

There are five deer in this picture ... trust me.

The falling snow was so beautiful.

Today is a very special day in our house; the day I went from a working mechanical engineer to a domestic engineer. Eleven years ago, we welcomed our first child into the world.

Lil' Chef @ 18 months

Her birthday requests were: ham with honey and brown sugar glaze, butterscotch pudding, ice cream cake, two friends over for a sleepover, kitten, and snow. We actually came through on all requests this year.

One Year Anniversary of Running!

2010-11-12T08:13:00.000-06:00

November 12, 2009, I started a run / walk program. Thirty minutes later, I finished 1.8 miles. A 16:40 pace. All this was done in my dark basement. I used the PodRunner: Couch to 5K on my iPod to let me know when to transition from walking to running.

I've looked and looked for a picture of me before I started this journey. I tend to take all the pictures so there are very few of me. These two are the only ones I could find:

Yesterday, I ran my 'long' route of 4.0 miles.

Stats:
Feb. 6: 58:51 (14:43 pace)
Mar. 20: 48:42 (12:10 pace)
Apr. 12: 45:28 (11:22 pace)
May 17: 44:54 (11:14 pace)
June 17: 44:09 (11:03) ... now classified as easy run in my training log
July 6: 44:11 (11:02)
Nov. 11: 43:44 (10:56)

Mr. T took this picture of me this summer. The fence in the background is what I was working on the summer before in the picture above. You can notice a big difference in my face.

Milestones:

December 02, 2009 - Intervals of 90 seconds of running with 2 minutes of walking
December 25, 2009 - Intervals of 3 minute of running with 1 minute of walking
January 9, 2010 - Intervals of 6 minutes of running with 1 minute of walking
January 27, 2010 - Ran for 0.8 miles without stopping
January 30, 2010 - First run outside. Temperature was -5 deg and sunny.
February 13, 2010 - Visiting in the in-laws and ran outside for 5.4 miles (longest run at this point)
March 6, 2010 - Continued to get my runs in even on vacation in Wisconsin Dells
May 26, 2010 - Weighed in at 155 pounds; compared to 195 pounds in November 2009

Month Miles Avg Pace Weight Calories Burned

Nov 09         21.8           16:02            194.0       1,980   treadmill
Dec 09          48.5           16:01           181.6        6,504 treadmill
Jan 10          48.9            14:56           170.2        5,728 treadmill
Feb 10         42.6            13:30           164.8        6,370 all outside
Mar 10        48.7            11:40            161.0        6,059
Apr 10        64.5             11:16            161.0        8,751
May 10       80.8             11:43            155.0      13,642
Jun 10         97.2             11:31            158.0      11,449
Jul 10      97.3             10:59            162.4      10,923
Aug 10        47.1             11:03            158.6        5,578 tendon injuries
Sep 10        70.6             11:11            160.0        8,348
Oct 10        85.2             11:29            160.0       10,369 changed form to a forefoot strike

Total miles ran in my first year: 753.2
Total calories burned: 95,701

This year, I have ran many races which I will summarize in a Year-in-Review post at the end of the year.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-10T09:39:00.000-06:00

Long Run in Pictures

2010-11-06T11:43:00.001-05:00

The temperature: 25 degrees .. required two layers of running attire today.

View when I stepped out my door

Mornings are so beautiful!

Wow.

Behold, my new running path ... uh, I mean the city's bike path.

Isn't it beautiful?

Currently, this is where the bike path ends. Eventually, it will go another 12 miles.

One of the many lakes in our area. The water was so still. Do you see the clouds in the water's reflection?

The local river

The Courthouse

Our downtown

9 miles
1:50:08
12:20 pace

Wordless Wednesday - Newest Members of the family

2010-11-03T13:07:00.000-05:00

Betsy and Willy

Chase the Pumpkin 10K

2010-10-30T22:17:00.000-05:00

A local Knights of Columbus group organized a race to raise money for diabetes. A friend of mine asked if I was interested in going with her to run the 10K. The race was less than two hours away from home and the fee was less than $20. I was in.

I've been working on my running form; changing it from a heel strike to a forefoot strike. Changing my running form has slowed me down. I've also have been focusing on increasing my cadence, steps per minute.

My goals for this race was to run the entire race using a forefoot strike. I haven't been able to do much speedwork or tempo work with my new form yet, so I knew that my time wasn't going to be close to a PR.

Before our 10K

The temperature was 35 degrees. There wasn't too much wind which was a nice change from earlier in the week. The course was an out and back.

Mile 1: 9:50 Avg Cadence 82.1
A 12 year old ran along side me and jabbered away about how she tries to find a running buddy in the race. I said that she was welcome to run with me until her half way point, since she was running the 5K and I the 10K.

Mile 2: 10:07 Avg Cadence 81.4

Mile 3: 10:36 Avg Cadence 80.8

Mile 4: 10:34 Avg Cadence 80.4

Mile 5: 10:43 Avg Cadence 81.0

Mile 6: 11:20 Avg Cadence 78.4
There wasn't any runners ahead of me. I came to a corner and I didn't know if I was to go straight or turn. I turned. Bad move, I had taken a wrong turn on the course. When I realized my mistake, I had two options. Go back to where I had turned or cut through the field to get back onto the course. Not sure what was proper race etiquette but I elected to run through the field. Upon coming out of the field, a volunteer asked me if I had taken a wrong turn and pointed me into the right direction. Looking at my data, my detour cost me more than 1:17.

With the course being an out and back, you can see where I took the wrong turn.

To the finish: 0.35 miles (0.15 miles longer than the race) 10:06 pace with an average cadence of 81.5
My friend had finished ten minutes before me. She was very kind to run with me into the finish.

This was the flattest course that I've raced. Gunner didn't register any elevation change.

6.35 mi

1:06:43

10:30 pace

80.7 avg cadence

Blow me off the Bike Path

2010-10-27T23:03:00.002-05:00

This morning, I stepped outside to 30 mph winds with gusts from 50-60 mph. In store for me was a 4.5 mile tempo run. The temperature was 42 degrees and falling.

My training plan calls for a 5 mile tempo run, but the bike path ends at 2.25 miles from my house. Since I've been addicted to out-and-backs lately, I can not seem to change the route. That will change soon as I'm sure the city will not plow the snow that will pile up on the bike path.

With my headlamp on low, I warmed up as Gunner (my Garmin) was getting reacquainted with the satellites. With running early in the morning, a headlamp is necessary to see and to be seen. I set my headlamp on low until I get further out onto the bike path, then I turn it up to high. It also has a red blinking light on the back.

On the way out, I ran into the wind. The strong gusts made it seem like I was to be carried away. I laughingly told myself that that wouldn't be the case last November, when I was 40 pounds heavier.

When I reached the turn around point, the wind was at my back and pushed me home. One of the reasons why I do like the out-and-backs is that the return trip seems shorter. I've found that I need to play mental games to keep me running. During my half marathons, I focus on getting to the next aid station.

Later today, I discovered that the winds that I experienced were the same conditions that shipwrecked the Edmund Fitzgerald, one of the most mysterious and controversial shipwreck tales on the Great Lakes. She's second to the Titantic. There's even a song about it, "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald", which is played on the radio stations around here.

"The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald"
by Gordon Lightfoot

The legend lives on from the Chippewa on down
Of the big lake they call Gitche Gumee
The lake, it is said, never gives up her dead
When the skies of November turn gloomy.

With a load of iron ore - 26,000 tons more
Than the Edmund Fitzgerald weighed empty
That good ship and true was a bone to be chewed
When the gales of November came early

The ship was the pride of the American side
Coming back from some mill in Wisconsin
As the big freighters go it was bigger than most
With a crew and the Captain well seasoned.

Concluding some terms with a couple of steel firms
When they left fully loaded for Cleveland
And later that night when the ships bell rang
Could it be the North Wind they'd been feeling.

The wind in the wires made a tattletale sound
And a wave broke over the railing
And every man knew, as the Captain did, too,
T'was the witch of November come stealing.

The dawn came late and the breakfast had to wait
When the gales of November came slashing
When afternoon came it was freezing rain
In the face of a hurricane West Wind

When supper time came the old cook came on deck
Saying fellows it's too rough to feed ya
At 7PM a main hatchway caved in
He said fellas it's been good to know ya.

The Captain wired in he had water coming in
And the good ship and crew was in peril
And later that night when his lights went out of sight
Came the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.

Does anyone know where the love of God goes
When the waves turn the minutes to hours
The searchers all say they'd have made Whitefish Bay
If they'd put fifteen more miles behind her.

They might have split up or they might have capsized
They may have broke deep and took water
And all that remains is the faces and the names
Of the wives and the sons and the daughters.

Lake Huron rolls, Superior sings
In the ruins of her ice water mansion
Old Michigan steams like a young man's dreams,
The islands and bays are for sportsmen.

And farther below Lake Ontario
Takes in what Lake Erie can send her
And the iron boats go as the mariners all know
With the gales of November remembered.

In a musty old hall in Detroit they prayed
In the Maritime Sailors' Cathedral
The church bell chimed, 'til it rang 29 times
For each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald.

The legend lives on from the Chippewa on down
Of the big lake they call Gitche Gumee
Superior, they say, never gives up her dead
When the gales of November come early

Art Class

2010-10-15T22:47:00.001-05:00

On Fridays, our days are shorter. I've scheduled them that way to allow for extra activities like gym class and library time.

Today, we painted in watercolor. Lots of Hair was taking her nap.

Table full of paintings

Lil' Chef's work:


"Creation"

The hand of God is in the bottom right hand corner. Can you spot the stars and the earth?

"The Garden"

The Garden of Eden. Gates are in the garden. Adam and Eve are hiding in the bushes.

God is like the wind. Can you spot the serpent?

"Noah's Ark"

Mr. T's work:

"Bilbo Baggins"

"Sea Serpent"

"Tank"

Squeaker's Work:

"Boy and Girl at an Apple Tree"

"Mom and Baby Fish under the Sea"

"Rainbow"

Trouble's Work:

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-13T11:12:00.000-05:00

Harbor Springs Half Marathon

2010-10-10T20:19:00.000-05:00

On Friday, hubby was able to work from home so that I could get an early start on the five hour drive. The kids were a dear and woke up early to get our school day completed before I left. I had work graded and workboxes packed for Monday before I ventured off on my little mini-retreat.

At 4:30 pm, I met up with my mom, my little sister, and my little sister's friend. On our way to pick up our race packets, they humored me by letting me stop at a yarn shop to pick up some fingering merino wool for a running hat that I've been wanted to make. My head is just too big for 'normal' hats.

We choose to stay at the same beautiful hotel / resort when we ran the Charelvoix Half Marathon in June. After that race, we had some awesome ice cream at the cutest mom and pop shop. I could eat ice cream year around. Therefore when we made a pact of not eating any ice cream until this race, it was a struggle for me. I slipped up once, July 29th ... after a rough day at home. After picking up our race packets, my sister made dinner for us in the suite.

Early the next morning, we woke up to a beautiful fall day. The temperature was warmer than normal for the time of year. It would be 54 degrees at the start of the race. Perfect ... well, for me ... the others were not comfortable, too cold.

Mom

Little Sis

Little Sis's friend - her first half

One of the race photographer's took our picture before the race ... waiting for it to be posted.

I started off well. At mile 7, I was on target for a PR. I was pushing myself. This course had many rolling hills compared to my last half marathon.

The course was beautiful. The trees were in full color. Most of the course was along Lake Michigan. One of the stretches of the course was through "The Tunnel of Trees".

With this being the 'first' annual race, there were a few bumps...

The aid stations were few and spaced very far apart. This was a huge mental struggle for me. I kept telling myself that I can make it until the next aid station, but that aid station didn't appear ... just another hill.

At mile nine, my overall pace was 10:58 just shy of my PR pace of (10:57). Gunner was telling me that I'm falling behind. I kept pushing myself ... telling myself how wonderful I'm doing especially with the hills ... reminding myself that it's a downhill finish.

Then from mile 10-12 was a constant uphill battle. By the end of mile 12, I had fallen behind Gunner by over 2 minutes. There wasn't enough race left to make up that time. I kicked it in as much as I could that last 1.1 miles. I was disappointed but proud that I was out there running. This was my third half marathon this year. I began running last November ... so not even a full year of running yet.

Traffic was everywhere on this course. Here, I'm dodging people getting out of their car!

Check out all the colors of the trees!

My running tank says, "There's no I in team, but there is in Ice Cream" =)

Official finish time:

2:25:54


The Girls in our matching outfits.

Congratulations to my mom and my little sister for both placing 3rd in their respected age groups!

For lunch, we had take out from Buffalo Wild Wings. Mom and my little Sis watched the U of M vs. MSU game while my little Sis's friend and I watched a few episodes of The Big Bang Theory.

After Mass, Mom and I stopped for ice cream.

Enjoying carmel praline pecan ice cream. Yum!

The resort had given each of us a coupon for $20 of slots at the local casino. They talked me into going. Once there, we signed up for their rewards card to receive the $20 slot credit. We were also given a coin for the free pull machine. My little Sis and her friend were given an extra coin because it was their birthday month. Everyone put in their coins and pulled. Nothing. I was there to be a good sport. I prayed to God that whatever I win with this free money that half would go to the church. I prayed more for the strength to be disciplined not to use any of my own money. I pulled the lever ... Five dollars! So onto the slots we went. My mom and my little sister split off. We stayed and played the penny slots. We figured that would be the longest way to be entertained. Well, I won at every slot machine I sat down at. In the end, my total winnings were $41.48 ... $20 for me and the rest goes to church. I spent the rest of the evening watching the others play blackjack. At one point, they were complaining to the dealer about the cards and needing to win some money back. He said that the best way not to lose your money is not to gamble. I had a hard time not bursting out in laughter!

My first ten miles were ran to celebrate a fellow blogger's birthday:

10 miles

1:50:17 (11:01 pace)

Happy Birthday Neil Z!

Running and Praying

2010-10-02T16:55:00.000-05:00

Since I started running outside, I can't seem to get back onto a treadmill. Being outside in God's country brings God to mind.

Many times it happens. I'll be in prayer while on a run and someone will come to mind. So, I'll pray for that individual asking for God's will to be done and for their acceptance of His will.

This morning was no exception. What was different was that I was listening to my i-pod. I usually don't run with music, but on long runs I will. When I started my nine mile run this morning, the sun was starting to shine even though the clouds were still spitting out a bit of snow and rain. Yes, snow and rain ... the temperature was 32 degrees when I left the house.

A few miles into my run, the following song came on:

Tubthumping by Chumbawamba

I get knocked down, but I get up again. You're never going to keep me down. I get knocked down, but I get up again. You're never going to keep me down ....

My thoughts turned to a good friend of mine who had a rough day yesterday. I thanked God for being able to help her out in the small capacity that I did. I thanked God for bringing her example into my life. I asked God to give her strength in dealing with others who are not grateful for her friendship.

I continued on my run praying for the mothers that I know who are expecting.

Then the following song started to play:

Up! by Shania Twain (*disclaimer: I'm not a big country fan, but this song spoke to me)

It’s ’bout as bad as it could be
Seems everybody’s buggin’ me
Like nothing wants to go my way--
Yeah, it just ain’t been my day
Nothin’s comin’ easily

Even my skin is acting weird
I wish that I could grow a beard
Then I could cover up my spots
Not play connect the dots
I just wanna disappear

[chorus:]
Up--up--up--
Can only go up from here
Up--up--up--up
Where the clouds gonna clear
Up--up--up--
There’s no way but up from here

My friend came back into my thoughts and prayers. Have I told her how much I appreciate her listening to me when I talk about babies and natural family planning? Have I told her how much I appreciate that she understands where I stand on these things? Have I told her that I'm grateful to call her my friend?

A herd of deer crossed the road in front of me. Looking down at Gunner, I was seven miles into my run. Funny, I was a bit sad that I was just two miles from home.

Then this song played:

Blessed by Martina McBride (*disclaimer: Hmmm, another country song)

I get kissed by the sun
Each morning
Put my feet on a hardwood floor
I get to hear my children laughing
Down the hall through the
Bedroom door
Sometimes I sit on my
Front porch swing
Just soaking up the day
I think to myself, I think to myself
This world is a beautiful place

I have been blessed
And I feel like I’ve found my way
I thank God for all I’ve been given

At the end of every day
I have been blessed
With so much more than I deserve
To be here with the ones
That love me
To love them so much it hurts
I have been blessed...

I have been blessed. God blessed me with a husband who has brought be much joy and much sorrow. God has blessed me with five healthy children. God has blessed me with friends who have helped me out of the darkest pits. God has blessed me with an outlet (running) which helps to keep me sane. I am so blessed that Jesus died for my sins. It is so much more than I deserve.

Long Run

2010-09-18T11:26:00.001-05:00

The alarm clock went off too early this morning. I wanted to run seven miles, so I had to do it early because hubby was leaving for Green Bay at 6:30 AM. I didn't start my run until quarter after five (one snooze too long).

Since it was dark, I wore my headlamp. In town, it was set on it's lowest brightness. I like that it has a blinking light on the back. Once I was out of town, I turned the brightness to high.

A mile into the run, it looked like it was raining, but it didn't feel like rain. On closer inspection, I realized that it was snowing! I debated with myself for a while. Maybe it looked like snow because I wasn't wearing my contacts or because there was a mist in the air. Looking at the road confirmed it, a light dusting of snow.

I don't mind running in the snow. It's very peaceful and prayerful. I was concerned about the darkness, though. At mile two, my headlamp picked up an animal's eyes. They seemed to glow green. I noticed the shadow of the head and it's ears were up, listening ... Was it a wolf, a dog, a coyote, I thought. Bear season is now underway. Maybe I should have stuck with running just in town. Does my husband know that I take this route on my long runs? If it was a dog, I think that it would have barked. "Dear Jesus, please keep me safe on my run." "St. Francis, intercede for me." I prayed over and over those two miles.

At mile three, Gunner (my garmin) said that I was going too fast. Average pace for three miles was a 10:48. My long runs should be around 11:30; though the McMillian running calculator says I should be at least a 12:00 pace. The speed probably came from the darkness, the animals, and the concern that I needed to get home before hubby left. I saw four deer crossing the road. When I turned to look at them, I noticed the shape of their head and the spacing of their eyes. Laughing at myself, that had to have been a deer looking at me at mile two. "Thank you, God, for keeping me safe from harm."

At mile four, I walked a bit and ate four Clif Shot Bloks, Tropical Punch flavor. Washed them done with Nuun that was in my handheld. The snowfall had ended. The dawn was breaking and I was less anxious about the animals. When I started running again, I noticed that my legs felt great. Usually after walking for a bit, they feel sluggish. Hmmm, could it be the CEP compression socks? Hubby gave the go ahead to buy a pair, hoping that they would help with my ankle tendons. Smart purchase. I could definitely use another pair ... running sponsor??

Mile five was relaxing. The sun was starting to peak through the trees. The sky was glowing in all shades of oranges, yellow, and blues.

Mile six felt great. Gunner was yelling at me to slow down. Split time for mile six was 10:17. I ignored him and listened to my body. Plus, I knew that the last mile would be slow with the 200 ft climb back to the house.

Mile seven was slow; 11:51. Almost the entire last mile is uphill; but I ran up the entire hill.

When I arrived home, hubby had left twenty minutes before. I was mad at myself for not getting out earlier. I would have liked to say good-bye and kiss him. Lots of Hair was awake. Luckily, she has an awesome big brother who is willing to take care of her. I found the two of them watching Dora when I returned. I prayed a prayer of thanksgiving for getting me back safely and for keeping the kids safe.

I felt very blessed this morning. Blessed to be able to run. Blessed that my son can take good care of his 17 month old sister. Blessed to be able to see the little bit of snowfall. If I would have gotten up after the sunrise, I would have never known that it did snow a bit.

Mr. T took my picture:

The End of Taper Week

2010-09-10T11:47:00.000-05:00

This week has been a total recovery week for me. I want to be strong for my next half marathon on October 9th. I'll be running with my mom, my little sister, and her friend. I'm still holding out hope that a good friend of mine will join us too. We have a super cute outfit planned ... (stolen idea from another runner's blog, but she said to.)

I've started a part time job. I know, you're thinking ... When do you have the time? I'm very fortunate to be able to work from home. They set me up with a laptop and I'm able to connect to their networks via internet. I'm a mechanical engineer by trade ... I've just been a domestic one for the last ten years. The work that I'm doing is 3D computer modeling. I was surprised how fast I was able to come up to speed with the software. I work in the early morning hours before school on non-running days, during nap/quiet time, and after dinner. My goal is 18-20 hours a week.

What to do with the extra money?

Increase the running budget =)
Build up our emergency fund from 3 months of living expenses to 6 months
New tires for the van
Start a vehicle fund - Hubby's truck is a '96 and the Sienna is '05 We are at full capacity in the van and would need to go bigger if there are babies in a future.

Speaking of babies, Lil' Chef asked me the other day if I may be pregnant. I asked her why she thought that. "I was hoping that we would have a baby next year." LOL. I didn't have the heart to tell her that my fertility hasn't returned yet after Lots of Hair's birth. I did say that if God willed it; we would be very happy.

Here's the graph that she made a year ago:

Notice the stationery that she drew it on; The Couple to Couple League.

The Couple to Couple League (CCL) is an international, Catholic, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and teaching fertility awareness (natural family planning) to married and engaged couples.

Hubby and I were NFP teachers for almost nine years. It works, people!

First Day of School for St. Michael's Academy

2010-09-06T19:01:00.000-05:00

We had our first day of school today. I know that's it's Labor Day. It worked out well with hubby home to keep an eye on the younger two.

St. Michael's Academy - before students arrived:

Pencils are sharpened. Workboxes were prepared. I had added cabinets this year; the fronts are painted with tinted chalkboard paint and a few with magnetic paint.

The students:

Lil' Chef - 6th grade

Mr. T - 3rd grade

Squeaker - Kindergarten

Hard at work:

Yes, they are wearing pajamas. One of the benefits of homeschooling. =)

Marquette Half Marathon

2010-09-05T16:55:00.002-05:00

We decided to spend the night in Marquette instead of driving up the morning of the race. The race started at 7:15 EST and we live on CST (the race would start at 6:15 our time; which meant I would have had to leave by 4 am).

Friday night, I picked up my race packet. The wind was wild. Hurricane Earl had nothing on the weather here! I hoped that the wind would calm down before the race the next morning. After driving the course, we enjoyed swimming at the hotel pool.

Saturday morning, a good friend of mine, S., and her friend, P., agreed to pick me up from the hotel. I was so thankful of them to do that. That way, my husband didn't have to rush to get the children up and eat breakfast before the start of the race. I had marked out on the course map about what time I would be at each mile marker so that he could find me.

At the start of the race, the temperature was 48 degrees with wind and a rain/sleet mix.

The poor volunteers were cold. They were so cheerful and helpful.

Aid stations were placed about every 1 - 1.5 miles apart.

Mile 1: 10:13

I started out running with S.'s friend, P. She said that her goal was 2:20 ... She's a bit faster than that! By mile 2, I told her not to let me slow her down.

Mile 2: 10:39

It looks like I'm on my own. I saw a group of three runners wearing Vibram Five Fingers. So cool!

Mile 3: 10:36

Connected with a wonderful lady named, A.

Mile 4: 11:04

Chatting away with A. and the miles started to fly by.

Mile 5: 11:05

I ate a raspberry gel that was handed out ... really gross! I should have eaten the Clif Shot Bloks that I brought with me.

Mile 6: 10:55

On the bike path in the downtown area of the city. We could see the Farmer's market going on.

Mile 7: 10:19

We had a speedy split this mile. I think it was from the excitement that we were half way done.

Mile 8: 10:57

We walked for a bit after the aid station. The wind was really cold coming off the water. We passed one of the big playgrounds and I was surprised that I didn't see my family yet.

Mile 9: 10:41

Still no site of the family. We passed by Picnic Rocks park. Two swimmers have drowned here this summer. Click here to see the local paper's article.

Mile 10: 11:43

Tried to open my Clif Shot Bloks that I brought with me, but my hands were so cold they could not open the package. A. tried and couldn't get it open either. She had the exact same kind with her and was able to get hers open. Thanks for sharing A.!

I heard the honk of a horn and see our family van. The kids were yelling, "Run, Mommy, run!"

Mile 11: 11:19

Mr. T took this picture of us. Great job there, son!

Mile 12: 11:33

The only hill on the course was during mile 12! It was an 80 foot climb for about 3/4 of a mile. We killed it! (No walking)

We saw three gentlemen who had just finished surfing in Lake Superior! They had on full wetsuits with hoods and shoes. Crazy!

Mile 13: 10:45

We are almost to the end. We can do it!

The last 0.1 miles: 8:44 pace

The finish:

Official Time:

2:23:34

PR!!!

Check out those waves and the wind!

Thanks, hubby for taking photos of me at the finish line!

The Finisher's Medal & the Running T-Shirt

After the race, I refueled with a hamburger, bagel, and a banana. I met up with the family and we went to the local Catholic bookstore.

We drove the course to see if we could find my friend, S., who was running the full marathon. I asked the family if they could wait around while I ran with her for a bit. We met up with her just before mile 21.

Hubby thought that I was just going to run a mile or two ... since I just ran 13.1 miles. After he took our picture, he realized that I was going to run with her all the way into the finish. He was so sweet to let me.
Are you liking my recovery socks that I changed into? I won them in a blog drawing. Thanks Marcia! I would like to try running in compression socks. My legs felt great.
I think that I could have done the full marathon. I ran 18.5 miles ... what's another 7.7!

To see what the course looks like on a nice day, click here.

The local paper's take on the event is here.

4 miles

2010-08-26T08:38:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to MCM Mama! To celebrate her birthday, she created her own virtual race, "Mama Goes Masters". To help in celebrating her 40th birthday, you had three options:

4.0 miles in honor of turning 40
8.25 miles in honor of the actual day
40K if you dare.

I choose the 4.0 miles. Though when I had first signed up, I was actually considering the 8.25 miles. Good thing I choose the four since my ankle tendon / soleux issue hasn't allowed me to run much in the last 2 1/2 weeks. Even though this is a 'race report' in actuality, I didn't race it. I had to force myself to keep it easy. I did not want to risk re-injury especially since I have a half marathon (or full???) in the beginning of October with my sister and my mom.

I choose my normal 4 mile route, but changed it up at the end to avoid more hills.

My normal four mile route:

The 4 mile route that I ran for the race:

It was a beautiful morning. The sky was just starting to glow in yellow and orange as the sun was picking out. The temperature was an awesome 42 degrees. I wore my black running skirt and a blue short sleeve shirt.

After a warm-up with some stretching, I started out. How happy I was that my ankle felt great! First mile beeped: 11:10.

A gray fluffy bunny hopped across the road. Second mile beeped: 11:42. I was surprised at the pace since I had walked most of the hill.

Today, I ran a bit on the sidewalk. There's construction throughout town; adding a bike path that will eventually be 15 miles long. With the road all chopped up, I didn't want to risk twisting any ankles. Third mile beeped: 11:26.

I decided to change up the ending of my normal four mile route. Instead of running more hills, I did a few laps around the track. I don't think that I could have done the entire four miles around the track ... it would be like running on a treadmill for me; without the belt pushing me to maintain speed. As I was approaching home, the mist was sitting along the tree line in the valley.

God is so good to me. How beautiful He made this place where we live temporarily until we go home. The fourth mile beeped: 10:34. Ooops, got a little carried away that last mile.

4.0 miles

44:53

11:14 pace

This run bumped me over 500 miles for the year!

Wordless Wednesday - Can't wait for school to begin

2010-08-25T19:59:00.000-05:00

Had to run

2010-08-24T20:06:00.000-05:00

I haven't been running in over two weeks ... well, I had tried running last Monday, but my ankle was in so much pain that I walked back home after a mile. Last night, I was itching to run. My ankle has been feeling better and my body was just craving activity. Unfortunately, I haven't been working out at all. This injury got to my head.

It's 83 degrees. I don't like to run in warm weather. It's after five o'clock. I like to run in the early morning hours.

Dinner is in the oven when dear husband arrives home. I explain that I have to run, literally. He doesn't think that it's a good idea yet ... same opinion as my little sister. I know, I know, but I have to run. He smiles and says, "You look ubber cute in your running outfit. Walk the hills and only two miles".

Fantastic! I stretched and stretched some more. I started Gunner (my garmin) and off I went, walking at first since it was downhill. At the bottom of the hill, I started running. I had to be grinning from ear to ear. It felt so good. I did a little skip of joy. A hill approached and I walked up it. Once leveling off, I started running again. Ankle tendon was still feeling good. Yeah! More hills, more walking, and then more running.

When I arrived home, I made sure to stretch and then stretch some more. I placed Gunner next to my computer and he relayed all the info of my run. I logged into my favorite running log software, SportsTracks, and showed my dear husband that I had obeyed his wishes.

"See dear, if you look at my pace and the elevation charts, you can see that I walked all the hills. I have proof."

"Ah ha, but you said that you would only go 2 miles."

"I did."

"No, you went 2.05 miles." ...grinning

Next time, I will stop Gunner right at 2 miles.

Looking at my data, I was surprised. The moments that I was running, my pace averaged 9:40.

Lake Antoine Classic 15K Race

2010-08-19T11:31:00.000-05:00

**I was waiting on the posting of the results before I published this post.

August 7th: A local race to support Special Olympics! I signed up the for 15K and the oldest three children decided to run the 2 mile race.

This race was full of lessons.

Lesson 1: Have everything ready the night before. Make a race checklist. We turned around once to get my handheld water bottle (good thing). We turned around a second time to get the camera. Luckily, this race wasn't too far away from home.

Lesson 2: Go to the bathroom at least 30 minutes before the race ... you may be waiting 15 minutes for your turn.

Lesson 3: Wear the right shoes. If the course description sounds like a trail race, chances are it's a trail race.

Lesson 4: Set up your Garmin before the gun goes off. Make sure those satellites are in sync with you. Yes, I stopped and waited until my Garmin was ready before I began my run. It added 2 minutes and 30 seconds onto my time because I was impatient and not standing still. And I was not going to run unless I knew how fast and how far I am going. I guess I have some running OCDs.

Before:

After running for 15 Kilometers:

1:42:11 was the official finish time.

Lil' Chef, Mr. T, and Squeaker all started their 2 mile together.

Then Squeaker took off after the first mile leaving behind her two bigger siblings in the dust!

She placed 2nd in her age group with a time of 23:30

Lil' Chef and Mr. T finished together with a time of 32:19 and 32:18, respectively.

Windsor Rodeo Run - 10K

2010-08-05T21:45:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful morning for a run. The temperature at 8:00 am was 63 degrees. This was the first year that the Windsor Center organized the run. They were surprised by how many runners showed up.

Thanks to everyone who left a comment on which outfit I should wear. I went with the majority.

A very good friend of mine (another homeschooling mama) was running her second 5K. We stayed together for most of the first mile.

Mile 1: 10:20
Mile 2: 10:10
Mile 3: 10:20
Mile 4: 10:32
Mile 5: 9:59
Mile 6: 9:54
The finish: 9:09 pace

Time: 1:02:53

PR!!! (I beat my last 10K time by 1:39)

Placed 1st in my age group!

Elevation:

Lil' Chef (#343) ran the 2 mile with a good friend of hers (#340). They are standing next to their swim instructor (bib #370)

Her friend finished first in her age group and Lil' Chef finished 3rd in her age group with a time of 27:20 (39 seconds faster than her last 2 mile race)

Next, Mr. T and Squeaker ran the kiddie race. Squeaker was disappointed that she wasn't running the 2 mile race.

At 10:00, the town had a Rodeo Parade

We had lunch at a local sub shop and then onto the rodeo! A big thank you to Babcia and Papa for taking all of us to the rodeo!

I am no fashion guru

2010-07-29T09:32:00.000-05:00

I can not decide what to wear on Saturday for the 10K Rodeo Race.

Which outfit do you like?

Virtual "Half & Half" Race - Half Marathon

2010-07-17T20:50:00.001-05:00

One of the running blogs that I follow, Mom of 3, hosted a virtual "Half & Half" Race this week. The distance was either a half marathon or half of a 10K (5K). I choose the half marathon since it flowed with my training plan.

My alarm went off at 5 am and I'm sorry to say that I hit the snooze button. I wanted to be out the door early to beat the temperature, but Lots of Hair was up most of the night. I think she has more teeth coming in because nursing her wasn't working and 'magic milk' usually works.

When I did get up, I ate a G1 bar (Oatmeal Raisin) and drank some water before getting dressed. I had my Camelbak waist pack ready to go with GU Chomps and Berry Nuun. Thank you Teamarcia for the GU Chomps that I won in her giveaway, among many other fabulous prizes. Thank you to my little sister for the Nuun.

self portrait before the run

At 6:23, I was running. I set Gunner, my virtual running partner, at a 11:00 pace. I wanted to attempt a PR (Personal Record) even though the course was much hillier than my first half marathon.

Since I am the only one running this course, I though that you would enjoy viewing what I saw at each mile.
I didn't come up with this idea on my own; a super cool runner had the idea.

Mile 1: 10:14

Mile2: 10:17

Mile3: 11:07

Mile 4: 11:11

Mile 5: 11:37

Mile 6: 11:11

A good spot to turn around. Don't you think?

Mile 7: 11:28

Mile 8: 10:56

Mile 9: 11:13

Mile 10: 11:03

wild turkeys crossing the road

Mile 11: 11:18

Mile 12: 10:42

Mile 13: 11:24

The 'finish line' is at the top of this hill. Needless to say, I had a hard time sprinting to the finish. I ran and didn't walk until after my garmin read 13.1 miles.

Home:

I did it!!!

Thank you to Mr. T for the afterglow photo.

Time: 2:25:16

PR!!! Beat my first half marathon by 13 seconds!

Now, to wait to see how I placed...

The proof:

Cooling off with the family in one of our local lakes and soaking my tired legs:

Run Your Bass Off 10K

2010-07-15T13:52:00.002-05:00

My small town has a race entitled, "Run Your Bass Off". There's a 10K, a Half Bass (3.6), and a 2 mile walk.

Quite a few months ago, I invited my parents and siblings to stay at our house and participate in the race. It was to be a family reunion of sorts; our closest family lives eight hours away.

My mom, little sister, and I signed up for the 10K.

My brother-in-law complained of sore knees and therefore signed up for the 5K.

My brother and his girlfriend joined the family in the event by signing up for the 2 mile walk.

My other sister wasn't able to join in on the fun. =(

My stepfather was willing to stay at my house with all of the children: 11 yr niece, Lil' Chef, Mr. T, Squeaker, 5 yr niece, Trouble, 2 yr nephew, and Lots of Hair. That's eight children! I'm so fortunate to have a dad like him in my life. Plus, he's never had children of his own ... I was praying that no diapers need to be changed. Luckily, the race was five minutes from my house.

I had two goals for the race: beat last weekend's 10K time and finish ahead of my mother.

In last weekend's 10K race, my average pace was 10:35. I set my virtual partner at 10:30. Should I name him Gunner??

Mile 1: 9:50
   My mom stayed in front of me for the entire first mile.

Mile 2: 9:55
     Ate a bug. I passed my mom on the descent. I truly enjoy flying down hill. I guess with my long legs I can really open up my stride. I'm way in front of Gunner.

Mile 3: 11:06
   Major hill ... see elevation:

Mile 4: 10:27
   I was thirsty. I felt that there wasn't enough water stations on the course. I made a note in my log to bring my handheld water bottle next year. I'm still in front of Gunner, but he has closed the gap some.

Mile 5: 11:08
The last big hill. I noticed that many women in front of me started walking. Since I've practiced this route many times, I kept running knowing that it was going to start tapering off soon. I gained considerable ground on them.

Mile 6: 10:36
     I really tried to pick up the pace. I'm in front of Gunner, but not by much. I just need to keep the pace and I'll beat him. My legs were like rubber from the hills and part of this stretch of the course was sand. Have you ever tried running on sand at the beach with shoes on?

Last 0.2: 8:30
     My little sister was yelling at me to pick it up. I am so fortunate to have wonderful family members who support my running. Sometimes, you need a little "Jillian". (Think of Jillian Michaels yelling at you)
Coming into the finish:

I look like I'm going so slow...but I'm running a 8:10 pace at this moment.

1:04:32
(10:27 pace)

new PR!!!

10/11 in age group; 33/39 in women; 68/78 overall

The Runners:
Brother-in-law, 30:06 Half / Mom, 65:57 10K / Me / Sister, 53:47 10K
My brother-in-law placed 2nd in his age group!

The entire group:

The Family that Runs Together, Stays Together

2010-07-05T10:59:00.000-05:00

Forgive me for the play on words which Father Peyton promoted (The family that prays together stays together). I couldn't resist.

In celebration of our country's independence, our family participated in the Bessemer Hometown Run. I ran the 10K while the rest of the family ran / walked the 2 mile. We left the house at 6:00 am; two hours later, we arrived at a quaint little town.

Our race faces

I found #1 & #2

Wait ... there's #4 and #5!

We were just having too much fun before the race.

Mile 1: 10:15
The entire first mile was a gradual incline. Hill work is paying off! I had set my virtual partner at 10:20. Yahoo! Ahead of the little man at the end of the first mile! Any suggestions for a name for my virtual partner?

Mile 2: 10:17
Still ahead! Wondering if I started out too fast. A lady passed me pushing twins in a stroller. You go girl!! This stretch was out in the country with a gradual incline. I caught sight of a runner ahead of me and made her my "target".

Mile 3: 10:43
This is where my brain was giving me troubles. Negative Nelly was saying to walk. The right side of my face felt numb and my right ear kept popping. It was hot; well, relatively hot, since I'm used to running in the early morning hours.

Mile 4: 10:55
Did I start out too fast or do I need some fuel?

Mile 5: 10:34
A little bit of a descent was in front of me. Focused on my "target" and used the descent to my advantage. I could tell that I was closing the gap. We turned the corner and a hill was in front of us. Step by step, I gained on her. By the end of mile 5, I passed her. Kicked Negative Nelly out!

Mile 6: 10:31
Acquired a new "target": Guy in the red shirt. For the last three miles, I was passed by a couple multiple times. I finally said hi. They seemed to be doing the sprint / walk method.

Last 0.2: 10:15
All up hill to the finish! Can you see the gentleman in the red shirt behind me?
My virtual partner beat me ... this time.

10K official time

1:05:49 (10:35 pace)

3 / 4 in my age group

29 / 42 in women

83 / 103 overall

Hubby 2 mile 25:47

3 / 4 in stroller division

Lil' Chef 27:59

7 / 11 in age group

Mr. T 30:02

4 / 5 in age group
He was a bit humbled, being beaten by both of his sisters.

Squeaker 25:41

2 / 6 in age group - awarded a medal

Notice that we are both wearing Road Ids.

When I ordered, they gave me a coupon that I could pass along to my friends. Here's the coupon number:
Coupon Number: ThanksCheryl783197
The coupon is good for $1 off any Road ID order placed by 08/04/2010. To order, simply go to RoadID.com or click the link below:
http://www.RoadID.com/?CID=ThanksCheryl783197
If you prefer, you can call them at 800-345-6335.

On the way home, we ate a picnic lunch that I had packed. After driving for one and a half hours, I was restless. An ice cream shop was 0.4 miles ahead of us. So I pulled the van over and asked who wanted to run with me to the ice cream shop. Hubby thought I was crazy. Didn't you just run 6.2 miles?? Lil' Chef and Mr. T joined me for the 0.4 mile run. We averaged a 12:09 pace. LOL!

Beautiful Blogger Award

2010-07-01T14:58:00.000-05:00

I received an award from Jenn's Journal.

I have to now write seven things about myself and pass the award along to seven bloggers.

1. I'd rather use a circular saw and a cordless drill than bake cookies or mop the floor.

2. I read and follow directions well.

3. My favorite saint is Padre Pio.

4. I could not run more than 3 minutes last November.

5. I've never had an epidural. Too scared of needles.

6. My favorite color is purple.

7. I'm not very organized, though many of my friends think that I am.

And I pass this award onto:

Barefoot Angie Bee
I Run Because... I Can
I wonder why
Let Mercy Lead
Racing With Babes
Running Off at the Mouth
Twelve Fit Feet

My First Half Marathon

2010-06-29T14:09:00.001-05:00

After a five hour drive, I met my sister and my mom at the fanciest hotel that I've ever been to, The Inn at Bay Harbor. The valet took my keys and I wondered what he thought as he parked our 14 year old Chevy truck among all the new high end vehicles.

My sister put together an awesome pre-race surprise bag; though some of the items are for after the race. An indulgence ... "I've burned over a thousand calories, so I can eat this"

Thank you! Thank you!

It rained most of Friday. The forecast for Saturday was rain and thunderstorms. As we drove to the race, it was raining. I kept saying that just before the race, the clouds were going to disperse and it would be a wonderful day for a run. Sure enough, it stopped raining just in time. The temperature was 65 deg and the humidity was low.

The three of us before the race: my little sister, my mom, and me

Don't we look super cute in our matching outfits?

Mile 1: 11:15
My little sister started closer to the finish since she's much faster than us. Mom and I went more towards the back of the pack. I warned my mom that we are not starting out fast. My goal was to finish and try to run 2:30 which means that I needed an average pace of 11:25 At 6:11 into the race, we realize that my mom's garmin wasn't on the training mode; therefore didn't start at the start.

Mile 2: 10:47
Under 11:00!!! Are we going too fast? Will we be walking like some others that we passed? "See, Mom. We were smart for not starting out too fast."

Mile 3: 11:01
My mom exclaims that she just ran her first 5K! Yeah, go Mom!

Mile 4: 11:12
The kids at the aid station had water cannons. One of them blasted me full force in the stomach. It took my breath away. This aid station also had licorice and pretzels. Neither of those sounded good.

Mile 5: 11:30
Ran on a wooden bridge that lasted for over a mile. I saw my little sister going the other way. Gave a big high five. She yelled that she was beating her virtual partner that she had set up on her Garmin. Yahoo! Keep it up, little sister!!

Mile 6: 10:51
At the half way mark, our overall time was 1:12 ... not too bad for us newbies. I was worried that I was going to fade.

Mile 7: 10:51
Under 11:00!!! My mom slows to a walk saying that she is out of gas. I continue on.

Mile 8: 11:22
Back on the wooden bridge. 8.5 miles is the longest run that I've done up to this point. I'm eating my gel and I look over my shoulder and there is my mom right next to me again. "Where did you come from?" I asked. "I ate some beans, so now I'm good," she answered.

Mile 9: 11:01
Warned the aid station kids not to aim the water gun directly at me but in the air. This was the first time that I asked for gatorade rather than water. Wrong choice, it tasted awful. A lady, who has been running behind us for almost eight miles, informs us that she likes our outfits and finally read what the back of our shirt says. The back of our tank says, "You're been passed by a skirt."

Mile 10: 10:56
The next aid station was volunteered by the local fire department. One lady had a bowl of ice. I grabbed some and placed it on my neck for a while. Ahhhh

Mile 11: 11:04
Back into the local neighborhood. One house was playing music for the runners. As I went by, the song that was playing was "We like to move it, move it; we like to move it, move it." Perfect timing. I need that one on my playlist.

Mile 12: 11:30
Slight incline, well compared to my hills at home, next to the local ski hill. I mention to my mom that I was going to kick it in because I just couldn't have her beat me. Wrong thing to say. She increases the pace too.

Mile 13: 10:21
I just couldn't let my mom out run me. I started kicking it in at about 1.5 miles to go ... way too early, I discovered. I could hear her behind me.

Last 0.1: 8:43 pace
Sprinting to the finish. My mom is not too far behind. Must go faster!

First Half Marathon!!!!
2:25:29 - 11:07 pace

25/31 in age group; 186/243 women; 343/479 overall

1443 calories burned

As you can see in the picture, my mom was right behind me. She did such a wonderful job running the race.

The course was a beautiful:

Check out the huge medals!

Standing on the working drawbridge. The race director warned us to be over the bridge ten minutes before the race in case the bridge opened for a boat.

Back at the hotel, we relaxed and walked out our legs on the beach.

No one was willing to play me in a game of chess.

I'm so proud of how much I have accomplished. November 2009, I could run for maybe 20 minutes. Seven months later, I ran for 13.1 miles!! I'm so proud of my little sister who's time was 1:56!! You rock! I'm so proud of my mom who just about kicked my butt!

After the race, I called the hubby and the kids. They survived the night without me and gave me permission to stay one more night. Thank you so much for giving this mom a huge R & R!! A huge thank you to my hubby on distracting a 15 month old who still nurses at night. A huge thank you to my hubby for getting all the kids to soccer practice and to church. Juggling five kids by yourself is no easy feat!

My 'running sponsor' awarded me with my own pair of Vibram Five Fingers - KSO style Thank you!!

Sunday, I attended Mass with my mom and little sister. I didn't have to worry about keeping kids quiet. I could focus all my attention on Jesus. Thank you for keeping us safe on the drive to the race, during the race, and on the drive home. Thank you for a family who wanted to run 13.1 miles with me and is considering doing it again next year.

St. Xavier Catholic Church in Petoskey, MI

Half Marathon; Here I come!

2010-06-24T14:12:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, I leave my five kiddos and hubby behind. I'm meeting up with my mom and my little sister in Charlevoix, MI; about five hours from home.

We are all running the half marathon on Saturday. It'll be my first half, my mom's first race ever, and my sister's second half.

I'm so excited. Pray for me.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-23T10:10:00.000-05:00

GO - Get Outdoors

2010-06-20T18:27:00.000-05:00

GO - Get Outdoors celebrates outdoor recreation. Our local state park provided opportunities for the family to fish, learn to tie knots, kayak, make a campfire dinner, listen to Indian stories, and archery.

When we arrived, the kids headed straight towards the kayaks.

Lil' Chef taking her dad for a cruise on the lake

Brother's turn to take dad for a cruise:

Next, we learned all about great horned owls. Thanks Journey (the owl)!

On to fishing....

Looks like Trouble caught something!

She was so excited. Trouble was jumping up and down, clapping her hands, and saying, "I caught a fish, I caught a fish, I caught a fish" A small bluegill is what she caught.

Keyes Peak Trail 10K Race

2010-06-19T22:03:00.002-05:00

The night before the race, I picked up my packet and the person right behind me in line was no other than ultra runner, Eric Charette! He was kind enough to shake this newbie's hand.

I didn't sleep well the night before. My three year old decided that she wanted to scream for an hour before going to sleep. Then in the middle of the night, my son was screaming from having a nightmare.

For breakfast, I ate a whole grain bagel with Nutella.

On the drive to the race, I realized that I wasn't wearing my heart rate monitor. Ugh! I also forgot to eat my SportBeans before the race.

I debated if I should wear my visor again or try to wear sunglasses. I thought that I would try the sunglasses since it was very sunny. Visor next time though unless I am blessed with some "running" sunglasses.

This is also my first race running with my ipod. I usually don't run with my ipod except on my long runs. I haven't decided if I like running with it or not.

The last trail race, I used my waist pack to carry the water bottle on my back. Today, I wanted to try the handheld. I did use it on a training run, so it wasn't new to me. I'm undecided on which to use during my first half marathon next weekend. I like them both. Any comments would be appreciated.

Let the fun begin:

Mile 1: 11:25

The start and the finish was at the bottom of the ski hill ... so the entire first mile was up hill! I was surprised at how well I did in the first mile. I guess this was a 'fast' start for me. I conquered that hill!

Mile 2: 9:50
Now, my garmin data says that this was downhill. I remember it as mostly flat. So maybe it was a slow descent that seemed flat to me. I really opened it up. My first mile ever under 10:00!!!!

Mile 3: 12:14
The scenery was beautiful. A green canopy kept me shaded and cool. One runner was 'relieving' himself on the side of the trail. A little more modesty, please. I had confused runners coming towards me. They somehow missed a turn on the course ... not sure how they did that. At the first aid station, I didn't stop; I didn't need to.

Mile 4: 12:26
Went through a puddle that stretched the entire trail. I was able to pass a few ladies on the way up this hill. Guess the hill training paid off. =)

Mile 5: 11:06
Had a bit of relief from the hills.

Mile 6: 13:04
This mile had hills that were the steepest of the course. I had a hard time breathing. My ears hurt. They felt all plugged up. I also felt a little dizzy; not quite sure what that was about. I made sure that I kept drinking my powerade that I had in my handheld. I ended up walking some of this part; guess more hill work is in my future.

Last 0.43: 10:15
This was the fun part. The last stretch I jumped down into the snowtube run and really opened up my stride and let gravity help me down. It seemed like I was flying to the finish line.
Coming down the snowtube run:

Coming into the finish:

This race was very well organized. Everything was done online ... green, you know.
The trail was marked well. All I had to do was follow the blue flags and make sure that the blue flags were on my right. Apparently, there was a group that lost their way and ended up doing the loop twice. Ouch!

This race had timing chips. The results were posted online the same day!

01:14:32 PR

7.27/K or 12:00/mi*

9th out of 21 females

1st in age group!**

*Yes, the route was a bit on the long side by 0.23 miles. My true 10K time would have been 1:11:47 with an overall pace of 11:35, which is what my garmin shows. Yes, it's a PR (Personal Record), because it's my first 10K ... but which time do I use?
**There was one other female in my age group, but she finished 1st overall. Since I was the only one in my age group then, I finished first in it.

My award for finishing first in my age group: pure Wisconsin maple syrup, YUM!

My goal was to beat my pace of the last trail race.
Mission accomplished!

Remember the ultra runner, Eric Charette ...

He won the marathon with a time of 3:19:55!!! How awesome is that time! Great job, Eric!
He was so gracious to allow a picture with him. Thanks to Laura his wife for taking it. Super nice couple!
Here's a recap of the marathon.

My three year old took this picture of me stretching after the race:

I ate three bananas (that I brought) after the race along with a large dose of mangosteen juice.
No leg cramping here!

For the runners, there was a lunch of bison burgers; but by the time it was ready, the kids were antsy. Maybe next year, I'll get to eat the lunch.

My son took this picture of me soaking in the local lake (modified ice bath):

Elevation:

Garmin data:

An Encounter with Paleo Joe

2010-06-18T10:46:00.003-05:00

We are so lucky to have had the opportunity to meet a paleontologist. Paleo Joe gave a presentation at one of our local libraries. He engaged the kids on being a detective to determine if the dinosaur was a meat or plant eater by looking at their teeth. Of course, he had dinosaur teeth to show. Mr. T is holding a model of the largest T-Rex tooth.

He gave an interesting discussion on whether the T-Rex was a scavenger or a super predator. He showed a model of the T-Rex brain which is very small compared to his head. Plus, the largest portion of the brain was related to smell; the brain is very similar in shape to a vulture's brain. Super predators have very large eyes compared to the size of their heads and they would use their arms to bring food to their mouth. The T-Rex has neither of this attributes.

At the end of the presentation, the kids were able to ask questions. "How do you know how old a dinosaur was when it died?" "How do you know what a dinosaur eats?" "What inspired you to learn about dinosaurs?" "How do animals change into different animals?"

From one of his books:

PaleoJoe is a real paleontologist whose recent adventures included digging in the famous Como Bluff for Allosaurus, Camptosaurus, and Apatosaurus.

A graduate of Niagara University just outside of the fossil rich Niagara Falls and Lewiston area of New Your, Joseph has collected fossils since he was 10 years old. He has gone on digs around the United States and abroad, hunting for dinosaur fossils with some of the most famous and respected paleontologist in the world. He is a member of the Paleontological Research Institute and Society of Vertebrae Paleontology and is the winner of the prestigious Katherine Palmer Award for his work communicating dinosaur and fossil information with children and communities. He has given over 300 school presentations around the country.

Paleo Joe's Website

Three Things Thursday

2010-06-17T14:52:00.001-05:00

I'm excited for my second trail race on Saturday. A 10K. My goal is to beat the pace that I ran during my first trail race. The best part of it is that I may get to meet an ultrarunner. How cool is that! An ultrarunner will be at this small town race!
My first half marathon is in 9 days! Plus, I'll be running with my sister and my mom. Most likely, I'll be running with my mom, because my sister is super fast. Also, I will be spending my first night away from the kids and hubby. A girls' weekend!
My three year old has had nine straight days of 'bathroom' accidents. I haven't figured what is up with that yet. I've been giving her extra attention (of the positive kind) to see if maybe that's what is lacking. She's been potty trained for the last two months. There hasn't been really any change at home, besides the fact that school is now out.

An Easy Run PR

2010-06-15T11:43:00.002-05:00

There are days when I am discouraged.

"I am not a very fast runner. Can I run a half marathon?"

When these thoughts enter my brain, I've been trying to stop them and replace with positive thoughts.

"I am strong. I can run 4 miles without walking. I have discipline. I can do anything with God's help."

Monday, I ran my normal easy four mile run. Lately, I've been trying to beat my virtual partner that's on my garmin. I should come up with a name for my vp... Anyway, some runs I do well, other runs, not so well. I was a worried that this would be a difficult run especially after my very slow 8.5 mile run on Saturday.

Monday, I set a new PR (Personal Record) for myself.

4.00 miles

43:57

10:59 pace

154 avg HR

First time that I broke the 11:00 / mile average pace!

Garmin stats:

I'm looking forward to my speedwork tomorrow. The plan is:

7 miles

-----------------

1 mile warmup

1 mile 10:22 pace

.5 mile jog

repeat two more times

1 mile cool down.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-09T10:02:00.000-05:00

Blueberry Ridge 12K Trail Race - Update

2010-06-08T16:58:00.000-05:00

The 'official' results are posted.

My finishing time via the organizer's stopwatch was 1:28:11

I was in the back of the pack at the starting line. So, can I subtract a bit? =)

There were 21 women who ran the 12K. If my math is correct, I placed 5th in my age group (out of 7) and 16th overall for women. There were 21 men who ran the 12K. Overall, I was 36th out of 42 runners.

I'm still really proud of myself for running a trail race. Sure, I was at the back of the pack, but only 42 crazy people raced that course!

Next up: Keyes Peak 10K Trail Run and then my first half marathon

Blueberry Ridge 12K Trail Race

2010-06-06T13:09:00.002-05:00

A nice cool morning for a race. The rain had finished and the temperature was 57 degrees.

After picking up my race packet, the children asked if they could race too. There was a 1 mile fun run scheduled just before my 12K race. How can you say no to this:

The kids at the starting line:

Mr. T was the first to make it to the finish line. He sprinted at the end to pass a girl.

Squeaker was with him the entire race. You can see her in the picture behind the boy in the upper right hand corner. My husband didn't get a picture of her coming into finish. He was surprised that she had kept up with brother the entire race.

Lil' Chef coming in. I was so proud of her. She really struggles with exercise. She said that she was getting side stitches.

The kids with their finishing 'awards' (tomato plants).

Hubby took a picture of me getting ready for 12K of hills. The trail is used for classic skiing in the winter. The majority of the runners ran the 5K event.

I even saw a barefoot runner. He was going to run the 12K, but his daughter wanted to run; so he ran with her on the 5K route. I didn't get a chance to chat with him after the race; hopefully, he'll be at the next trail race. I've been reading a lot about barefoot running lately.

The event was to raise money for a local charter school. There was no timing equipment, just a lady with a stopwatch.

The first three miles were all hills. Up and down, up and down, up and down. At a few of the hills, there was a sign at the top saying, "Caution, steep descent". The first time I saw the sign, I was chuckling ... yeah, right. Well, you could have almost jumped down from the top, the descent was that steep! I had at least four of those type of hills. I prayed my knees would hang in there on the way down.

Here is the elevation chart from my garmin:

The stats from my garmin stated that I was on flat ground 17% of the race.

The satellite image of the race:

The trail was beautiful. I was glad that I didn't bring my ipod. It was so peaceful to be out there running, looking at the trees, and hearing all the birds.

I had my Virtual Partner set for 11:45 pace. I would stay close to my goal pace and then lose a bit of ground on the hills. I was alone for most of the race. At mile five, I started seeing more runners and passed a few of them which felt good. For the last two miles, I kept my focus on the lady ahead of me. I was slowly closing in on her but ran out of miles.

I don't know my 'official' finish time and placement as of yet. My garmin stats were:

7.33 miles (12K should be 7.456 mile)

1:26:14

11:46 / mile

938 calories

Almost beat my virtual partner! =) I received a lily for finishing.

After the race, we met a wonderful family with six children. The mom and the older two kids had run the 5K. They graciously invited us over for lunch at their house. I hope that we can return the favor after the race in our town.

Pre-Race jitters

2010-06-04T16:53:00.001-05:00

My first trail race is tomorrow. Currently, it's raining and the rain is predicted to continue most of the night. I would imagine the trail will be muddy tomorrow. This will be my second race. I'm already missing my two comrades who raced with me last time. They were willing to listen to me jabber on and on about how excited I was to run in a race.

I am excited. If it's raining tomorrow, it will not dampen my excitement. I've ran in rain before. Since reading the book, "Born to Run" by Christopher McDougall, I've been intrigued by trail runs. For training, I've ran on the snowmobiling/orv trails near my house. Some of the trails are all sand; other parts of the trail are rocks and hills with tree roots running across. It will be fun.

My gear for the race:
-------------------------
Tank top
Running Skirt
Moisture wicking socks
New Balance Trail Shoes
Road Id (I do not run without it!)
CamelBak Hydration Belt
Garmin
Visor
Directions to the race
Camera
Post run outfit
Mangosteen Juice (to drink afterwards => helps reduce inflammation)
Picnic lunch for the family after the race before shopping at Menard's

Mmmm, what am I missing?

Hey, I have four followers now. Cool!

Wordless Wednesday - Well, almost

2010-06-02T20:17:00.000-05:00

Homemade Granola

for Breakfast

First run with a running buddy and hydration

2010-05-31T16:59:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, we traveled out of state to attend a cousin's wedding. My husband's cousin, Katie, was in town for the wedding also. Katie is an awesome runner. I had asked her if she would like to join me for a long run the morning of the wedding. She is much faster than I am; so I was hesitant about asking her to join me. She graciously said yes.

We left from our house on Friday afternoon and twelve hours later; we arrived at the hotel. I slept for a few hours and then dressed to go run. I was a bit nervous. I decided that I better eat something now, then wait until later in my run. I ate a package of assorted Sport Beans. I was surprised that they tasted pretty good.

Katie met me at the hotel and we ventured out. It was sure nice to have my garmin be able to tell us how many miles we ran! Our goal was to find a running trail, as they are many in the big city. We weaved through many different neighborhoods. We chatted about running, family, kids, jobs, and more. Every mile, my garmin would beep and I was amazed at how the time flew by. We didn't find a running trail, but I had a wonderful time. We ran 8.5 miles. My heart wanted to go on, but my legs died at mile eight near the fish market.

This was also my first time running with hydration. The two trail races that I'm planning on require runners to carry hydration with them. This was a great trial run. I was wearing a CamelBak Delaney Plus. Overall, it worked out great. I was able to carry my cell phone with me too. The pack didn't bounce around and I didn't noticed the liquid sloshing either. At mile 7, the pack was starting to irritate my stomach; so I held the water bottle the rest of the way in my hand. I still have a 'pouch' on my stomach from having five babies.

Here's a picture of our route:

We average a 11:58 pace; my best long run pace. I know that I really slowed Katie down, but she was a great sport to go running with a newbie like me. Thanks, Katie!

From my heart rate information, I burned 1157 calories. When I returned to the hotel, I drank a protein shake and about 5 oz of mangosteen juice. After stretching, I joined the family for breakfast. I felt great the rest of the day and had a wonderful time at the wedding.

An early Merry Christmas Gift

2010-05-27T10:00:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, a package came in the mail.

Inside the package was:

Oh my!!!!! I've been looking at the older version Garmin for five months now. This is the latest one, the Forerunner 405CX! There are so many bells and whistles on this. It's amazing. Now, I can analyze every part of my run. I am not an elite runner by no means. I may be not even a 'runner'; perhaps more of a jogger who is trying to run.

This morning, I had a four mile run scheduled. I have been consistently running my easy four mile at a 11:15 pace. One of the features is a virtual partner. So, I set my VP for 11:15 and my goal this morning was to stay ahead of it. So much fun!! During the run, my VP kept me updated on whether I was ahead of him or behind. This will be a great tool to use during races.

During my run, I had the garmin set up to scroll through various data. I had it set on medium speed, but I found that I need to have it scroll faster. I was able to see my pace, distance, time, % heart rate, heart rate in bpm, lap distance, and lap time. Talk about information; plus that wasn't even all of what it could show me while running!

During my four mile run, I need to cross the main highway twice. If there's traffic, I had to remember to stop my timer when I waited ... not any more! The garmin as an auto pause feature. It stops when I do. How cool is that!

This was my first day using this wonderful device. I'm looking forward to learning more and more about how to use it. The workout feature looks very interesting.

After I finished my run, I set the Garmin down near the computer and then booted the computer up. A few minutes later, I heard some beeps. I look at the Garmin and it says, "Transferring Data". No more manually entering my stats into my Runner's Log. Ok, maybe I still will since that way you can check up on me through the blog. =)

I'm testing out which log interface I like best, the Garmin Connect (online), the Garmin Training Center (pc), or SportTracks. Would appreciate any feedback on which log you prefer and why.

Some pictures of my data (these were from SportTracks):

My route (as seen from space; I can see my house!)

A picture of the hills I climb and descend:

My heart rate during the run:

My pace:

You can definitely tell from my pace and heart rate when I was going up a hill or going down. And the answer to the question that you've been waiting for ... Did I beat my Virtual Partner this morning??? Yes, I did! My pace for this run was 11:05

A huge thank you to my "running sponsor" for this early Christmas gift.

What happened to my kids?

2010-05-25T16:11:00.000-05:00

The morning started off nice with a P90X Core Synergistics workout. I need to strengthen my core more in order to improve my running. Wow, what a workout! After my shower, I had some time to sew before the kids and I started school. (Yes, I get up early) When I sew, I do not sit in a chair but on a exercise ball. I definitely did a core workout, because I noticed that it took more effort to sit upright to sew.

After sewing for an hour, the kids and I started school. I'm not sure what happened, but everyone was focused. When I asked something of someone, I got "Yes, Mom. Right away, Mom" Where are my kids?? We were finished with school before lunch today! Granted, there's been a bit less of work because we are finishing up various things as the school year comes to a close.

Next I hear, "Can I watch Lots of Hair for you, so that you can sew some more?" Um, ok? So I did a bit more sewing before lunch. I had only to make my own lunch today too. The older kids fixed lunches for everyone else. After lunch, Lots of Hair went down for a nap. I announced that I was going to go back down to sew some more. Lil Chef was practicing the piano when Mr. T came up to me and asked if he could do her chores. Um, ok.

So far, there's not been any fighting. This is amazing. Lately, we've been focusing on treating each other as if they were part of the Holy Family (Jesus, Mary, & Joseph). Today, I see fruits of our labor. What a blessing today is!

Weight Loss Update

2010-05-24T09:15:00.000-05:00

With the season finale of the Biggest Loser tomorrow, I thought that I'd give an update of where I was and where I am at now.

It's been seven months since I've started this adventure. My kids ask me why I still run, since I look "normal" now. I tell them that I run to feel good, to help me become a better runner, and to help me become a better mom. Also, I don't want to go back. I like the energy that I now have and how my clothes feel.

Yes, I'm a numbers nerd (the engineer in me)

Stats:

11/07/2009 5/24/2010

----------- -----------

weight 195 lbs 156 lbs

chest 43.5 in 37 in

waist 40.75 in 33.5 in

hips 46.5 in 39.5 in

pant size 18 8 or 10

Wow, I'm sure glad that I did keep track. One of the hardest challenges for myself now is to get my mindset out of my "old size". When I arrived to pick up my packet for my first race, I looked at the t-shirt that I ordered => XL. Fortunately, I was able to exchange it for a medium. A medium!!!!!

What's next? Well, I would say that I am in maintenance mode and fine tuning. I need to do more core workouts to keep my back healthy and to help improve my running. I have been trying to incorporate P90X into my routine.

A Trip to the trails near the local State Park

2010-05-21T17:11:00.000-05:00

We headed out to the local state park to walk the trails and enjoy the spring flowers. I know, it's almost the end of May but we are just seeing the spring flowers. We met up with our local homeschool group. The mom in the purple shirt has a forestry major. She was able to point out all the different species of trees.

Mr. T is in the red shirt holding a walking stick. Lil Chef is in the blue shirt, red shorts, and sun hat. Trouble is in the purple dress. Squeaker is in the red shirt behind Trouble. Lots of Hair was on my back in the Ergo Baby Carrier.

Woodpeckers at work

Forget-me-nots - Notice the pink ones; which are somewhat rare.

A beautiful area of forget-me-nots

A star flower or Trientalis borealis

Trillium

The local lake with plenty of fishing

We had a good adventure. No one was hurt or stung. Our last hiking adventure, we came across a nest of yellow jackets. All of us were stung multiple times. So, I'm amazed I was even able to get these kids back out into the woods!