Long Time & Taper Time

I needed a break from blogging. I was tired of taking pictures of everything around me, instead of enjoying everything around me. I have been living and enjoying every minute. Just because I haven't been blogging doesn't mean I haven't been running. I've been enjoying the sunny, warm weather here in California. I work about 2 minutes from a trail and I've been hopping on that right after work. I can't wait until the time change next week, so it stays lighter later. 

I've been eating, but not as well as I should be. We went to a place that claimed they had giant burgers. They had yummy burgers, but heavy on the mayo. They were ok, but not worth another trip. 

I have my next half marathon next weekend. So, that means I'm on taper (aka crazy time). This also means that I did my last long run (13.1 miles) last weekend. My route was one from my old neighborhood. I parked at the old apartment, ran to the park (by my work), around that park and met up with my weekend running friend.

I'm glad I had her meet me at the park, for the second, and last loop around (she drove me back to my car). I was running out of water and the water fountains were frozen over (which means, no water for a thirsty Shelly). She had plenty of water and kept my mind off of how far I had already run.

Don't get me wrong, it was a difficult run. I hadn't run this far in over a year, and my training has been very skim. I can't wait for the race and I know I will enjoy myself no matter what. 

How far do you run for your last run? I always run the full distance of the race 2 weeks prior (in case I get injured, I have time to heal). 

Running Punch

Last night, I had 11.5 miles on my schedule. In the beginning of the day, I was really excited. I couldn't wait for this run! As it got closer, I wasn't looking forward to it.When it came time for me to change into my gym clothes, I didn't want to go. I was trying to find any reason not to do it. I couldn't come up with anything that would be a good enough excuse (especially with my half marathon just over a month away). I needed to run this. 

I got changed, drove into the gym parking lot and got front row parking (which never happens, especially if it's raining, like last night). That was a good sign. I walked into the cardio area and my favorite treadmill was open (at the end with a fan directly above it, it's always taken). Another good sign. I put my things down, warmed up and started in. 

For about miles 6-8, I had this 20 something guy next to me (running, not just standing there) and while he was running, he would punch the air, really, really high. It was almost above his head. I've never seen anyone do that before. 

After some time had past, I looked down at the information displaying on the treadmill and it looks like I accidentally ran 12 miles (instead of 11.5). I guess I was really enjoying my long run! I hope that happens on race day. 

When I home, I just wanted to rinse the salt off my face and shoulders. I started the shower and shed my clothes. Here's my outer skin. 

Immediately after I got dried off, the first thing I put on were my compression socks. You  better believe I put on my lime green compression socks under my pj's. It's a must do after my long runs!

I have a pretty busy next few weeks. Every Saturday, I have a run date with my friend and we hang out afterwards. On Sunday, Jason and I are going on a day date, which should be fun! The first weekend in Feb, I have my first race of the year, a 10k. the following weekend is my second race, a 5k with my friend. And, finally, the first weekend in March is my first half marathon of the year. I'm also doing the Color Run 5k this year, again. 

Do you do the running punch (inside or outside the gym)? How far do you have to run before you put on your compression socks? What's your race calender look like?

The Long Run that kept me Hungry

After work, on Thursday night, I headed out (to the gym) to run 7 miles (my long run for the week), on the treadmill. I knew not to use the one I broke the night before (it's still there). I settled ion one that was on the far right side, away from everyone. Soon, they were all filled and I got a lot of strange looks, as I normally do when I run for more than 45 minutes on the treadmill. See, my gym doesn't have many people training for running races here. They seem to be here for their own fitness goals, but I rarely ever see anyone running for more than 45 minutes.

The first handful of miles just flew by. I couldn't believe it. before I knew it, I was on mile 5. Only 2 more miles to go. Mile 6 came. Mile 6.25 came and stayed for a while (it seemed). It took forever to run the last mile. It felt like that mile took longer than the other 6 I had already ran. My legs were tired, my brain was tired and my body was tired. I just wanted to finish. So, the only other way to finish faster, was to run faster. That's what I did. For the last 3/4 mile, I ran at 7.5 (I usually run at 6-6.2). It did seem to take longer, but I know I finished faster than I would have running slower (I'm a smart person doing math here).

For the next day or so, my stomach gave me problems, as it normally does when I run further than 6 miles. I guess it really hates being jostled for so long. I've tried out different food methods and this is just how my stomach is. I've learned to deal with that. One thing I real hate about training, I'm always hungry. When I think I've had enough food, I'm just hungry in a few hours. No matter what I eat (peanut butter, or pasta, or veggies and fruit, yogurt, chicken, or anything else...I've tested that too). it's just a running thing. 

Do you get any GI issues while running? Who ran CIM this past weekend?

So much Love for the Long Run

Last night, I completed a 1/4 marathon!!! My long run was 6 1/2 miles. How I plan my long runs, that I up each long run (once a week) by half mile. I loved every minute of this run. I hope this streak keeps coming. I love that I'm loving this training cycle so much. 

Ignore the thrown down gym bag and the freaky glowing eyed cat next to me. That's Scouty, she's my little girl and what I call my "cuddle monkey".  She's actually sitting next to me as I type this. She loves watching me type and the keys make noise. 

The miles just kept ticking by. I just wish something better was on tv. My gym only gets a few tv stations and that's how I keep sane on the treadmill. 

Today is my last day at work for the week. Yay for a 4 day weekend!

What are your plans this week? How have your runs been going?

My Gratifying 57 minutes & the 1st Long Run of the Season

Instead of stairs and yoga last night, I needed to make up my long run that I couldn't do last week. It took me 57 gratifying minutes and I loved every minute on the treadmill. The first couple of miles went by so fast, I couldn't believe it. The miles just kept flying. Every time I looked down, another mile had past. It felt like I was only on the treadmill for 10 minutes. I'm still on my runners high!

Look at my smile last night. I'm beaming from cheek to cheek. The seven is as in fifty seven minutes. This is such a great accomplishment. It was like the good 'ol days, when I was "hard core" training (for me). I've missed this and I'm so glad I have a goal to keep me training (and in line).

Yesterday, I was looking online and saw this:

I think this would be so cute for an appetizer for Christmas. It's a cracker with pepperoni, thinly sliced celery, peppercorns (or anything for the eyes and nose) and cheese. So adorable!

Hopefully you're not eating while you're reading this (do you like my nail polish color?):

Last night, I felt a little pull on my left foot's pinky toe. I think my sock turned and the sewing ended up rubbing there. Since I haven't been running too far, I haven't been using any body glide. I guess it's that time.  It's a start of a blister. Time to get it healed, before my next run, on Thursday. 

I'm catching up on my runs and Thursday, I will be. 6 miles. I will be running my long run next week on Tuesday, instead of Thursday. If you remember, I do want to have a life and keep training. This is how I do it, I move things around, as needed. I'm still meeting my friend that Saturday, and she's agreed to try a little further distance. I think there will be more walking, but that's fine. It's (for) fun. 

Do you use body glide for every run? What color are your toes (or fingers)? What's your long run distance? What are you doing for Thanksgiving?

Not Looking Forward to the Taper

I was really good last night. When I got home, I had energy that I needed to get out. So, I cleaned the house and even vacuumed. Then, I was starving, so I made dinner (I'll post that tomorrow). I was relaxing on the couch by 7. I made the smart decision and went to bed at 9:22 (I looked). I think it only took me about 10 minutes to fall asleep.

My alarm was set for 3 am. Yep, that's right, 3 am. I have another busy weekend, and this is my only time to fit in my last long run of this training cycle. When my alarm went off, I was up. I was pretty eager to run, so I made a piece of toast, used the bathroom and got dressed. I was out by 3:30. I made it to the gym in 40 minutes. Of course, the guy that opens it was late (like 10 minutes late). When he finally showed up, I got right on the tm. 5.48 miles later, I was back out the door to run the same route I came. 43 minutes later, I was back home. I like my times, especially since the traffic lights are longer, the later in the day.

The last mile was a little tough, though. I had a little hip ache. I guess that's a good thing about taper, it gives your body time to heal from any damage you may have done to it before the big day. I finished with a big smile on face, even though I have a hip issue, which I will take care of.

Now, it's time to eat breakfast and drink coffee. Then, off to work in my compression socks! They really make my legs feel brand new.

What is your routine after a long run? I've found the more I move around, the better I feel the next day.

Amazing Food!!

Ever since our trip to Half Moon Bay, we really like having tea time. It's difficult to drink hot tea when it's 100 degrees outside. But, when it's 70 inside and you're calm, it's a prefect time! This weekend, I'll make some biscotti, so we can enjoy the entire experience. I have found that I really love chai tea. I have never had it until a couple days ago.

This recipe is great! Chick peas, black beans, chicken, tomatoes and fresh basil with a home made red vinegar dressing. Prefect for a hot summer day after a tough, long workout.

I grilled this bbq chicken indoors (since I was only making 2 pieces). It's paired with some home made garlic bread and green beans. I love sitting outside enjoying the summer time, while I still have it.

Last night, I made a salad with a bunch of left overs (I love doing this!). I had some left over garlic bread on the side. In the salad was the left over chicken, black beans, cucumbers, tomatoes and green onions. Another great on a hot summer night.

Last night, I had my gym bag packed away in my car, so I could go to the gym after work. About 15 minutes before I left, I remembered that I had 12.5 miles on the schedule in less than 12 hours. I felt it wasn't smart to run and spin that close to my long run, so I decided not to go and spent a nice night at home watching Sons of Anarchy with Jason.

I ran to the gym this morning, ran about 7 miles on the tm and headed back home on foot. I finished 12.5 miles, as scheduled. It was a great run. This time (unlike last time), I set everything up last night and my run started great, was great the entire and I ended strong! I'm glad my long run has been completed for the week!

After this run, this is all I want to (not with my tongue hanging out, though), but I have 9 hours at work until I get to relax. Wish me luck today. It's going to be a very long, very busy day!

I'm off to finish my chocolate milk.

What's your favorite summer time dinner to make? I love salads with home grown veggies. My favorite!

Run!

Yesterday, on my lunch break, I started reading Run! by Dean Karnazes. I didn't want to put it down (to go back to work). I love it! I love that he wrote most of the book while he was running (talked into a handheld recorder). That is so awesome. So, some of our thoughts (as runners) may be in this book. When we run, we think of all kinds of things. I know I always have a little conversation (or a million) in my head while I run. It's only natural. I can't wait to read more!

Last night, I was out cold by 9 pm (I actually fell asleep on the couch before that). Jason kind of made fun of me when I told him I was going to bed. Yes, being an early morning runner makes me an old lady (he's very much a late night owl).

When I got up this morning, I was ready for my 6 miles. Check! Leg weights. Check! It was a great workout. On my way home, I took note of my mileage that I am going to be running in the morning. In case you've missed it, I'm going to run to the gym tomorrow (leaving my house about 4 am), run about 7 miles on the tm and then run home to complete my 12 1/2 mile run (aka my long run for the week). I'm so busy this weekend, I won't have time to fit it in (unless I get up at 2 am on Saturday, which won't happen).

That you guys for the encouraging words. I feel very confident for tomorrow's long run!

Do you prefer your long run to take place during the week or on the weekends? Usually, I prefer the weekends, but the next few weekends are going to be crazy!

12 Miles & Some Minis

I was up and out of the house before the sun decided to get up. It was so nice running into the sunrise. I haven't done that for a while now. About 1 mile into my run, as I was running off of a curb to cross the street, I lightly rolled my ankle, but had no pain.

I was having a great run (62 degrees, lots of runners to say hi to and a slight breeze as I ran into the sun rise) until about mile 7. The pain from my previously rolled ankle was starting to increase. It really only hurt to run up hills. But, I chose a route that had quit a few hills. I continued on and walked up the hills and ran down and the flat parts.

I ran around this park near by, and this guy was running down from a hill and he was running like Phoebe from Friends on that episode that Rachel runs with her. It was so funny, I wanted to laugh, but I knew the guy was not being funny.

I finished my (slightly painful) 12 mile run and ended with a huge smile. I'm just happy I am able to run and this injury will not last long. I should be back on track when I hit the gym on Tuesday early morning. As soon as I walked through the door, I poured myself a huge glass of chocolate milk. Got to love this stuff!

This is such a late post because my run took way longer than I expected (because I had to walk up the hills) and I started to make breakfast. I don't usually make a huge breakfast, Just some cereal and coffee and I'm set. Today, I'm making the works: mini cinnamon rolls, bacon, eggs and french toast.

I hope everyone has a great long weekend and good luck to everyone racing. I can't wait to read your re-caps!

What are your plans this sunny, long weekend? I have a bubble bath, home made pedicure and lots of organizing for my plans!

Uncomfortable & Sleepy

All day yesterday, I was in this mood where I couldn't get comfortable. I knew that sweating would just piss me off (the one time running doesn't help my mood). So, to keep my sanity, I opted for a night at home to relax rather than the gym.

I ended up falling asleep on the couch and so did Jason. He woke me up about 2:30 am. When this happens, it impossible for me to get up at 4. So, I slept until 6. After the holiday, I will get back into the routine. I do have 12 miles on the schedule Saturday, so I'm stoked about that!

What are you excited about for this weekend?

One of Those Runs

Ever have one of those runs? What I mean by "one of those runs" is a perfect run. The air has a chill to it with a slight breeze, other runners are out saying hi to each other with a huge smile, your muscles feel great, your fully carbed up , you have a ton of energy and you feel great the entire time? One of those runs...

I was so happy when I got home, I still can't stop smiling. Don't get me wrong, I use every ounce of energy I had and I'm drenched in sweat and I finished in a great time (for me). So, this is a start to the perfect day. I had 11 miles on the schedule, but I took a wrong turn and ended with 11.39 miles. Oh well, it was still great!

Jason should be getting up soon and then we're off for part one of a 2 part weekend (I get 2 more parts next weekend, too). I have no idea what we're doing and he has the entire weekend completely planned.

Whatever he had planned today, he changed it to tomorrow, because I need all my energy for this. I can't wait to see what we're doing!! Happy early birthday to me (it's on Wednesday).

What was your perfect run like?

Happy Legs

Thank you guys for all your comments on yesterdays post. It really means a lot and I'm so happy to share a summer wedding with many of you! This is what Jason had delivered to my office yesterday morning. It was so cute, because I had 2 female clients I was talking to when they were delivered and they said "awwwww!!" and had huge smiles on. How sweet. Now, I just have to try to keep my cats from eating the flowers.

Shortly after I got home from work, my mom, brother and nephew came over for dinner (my brother & nephew live in WA). It was so nice to visit with them. I haven't seen them in a few months. My nephew is always on the move, so it's difficult to get a good picture.

This morning, I had a total of 11 miles on my schedule. My plan was to run 8 on the streets and a 5k on the tm (it helps me keep my pace accurate). I made a couple wrong turn on the streets and got a little turned around and some how shortened my run. I usually make the run longer whenever this happens. It wasn't cut that much shorter. I ended up running 7.85 on the street.

I am participating in Adam's Sweat your thorns off 5k today. So, the last 3.1 miles was done on the tm. I wanted to make sure I got an accurate time. My finishing 5k time was 29.14. It's not my best time, but definitely up there.

My legs felt strong and super happy to be outside (I'm only able to run outside on the weekends). They really wanted to keep going, but I have things I need to do and don't want to push myself too hard before next weekends 13 miles.

Look how good I feel. I'm smiling so big, you can barely see my eyes. So happy to be feeling good after this weeks long run and I can't wait until next weekends new route, (It was a new route this week (that's why I got turned around)) and it's near the river. Yay, for hopefully a cool breeze.

How did you start your Saturday?

Switching Things Up

Last night, we finished our left over pizza for dinner (I didn't drink any soda, but hubs did). It's decent pizza for the price. Tonight, I had my usual speed (for me), my 5k run today. When I was at work, I just wanted to run. It was 62 degrees and sunny outside. So, I ended up grabbing a tm (facing outside) and running 11 1/2 miles on the tm. I use the tm for my long runs because I really need it to make me have a continuous pace. I think it really helps me. I'll find out in 33 days! I had a great long run. I was talking to a new friend for about half of it and it made the miles fly by. I really need a running partner. Anyone near the Sacramento, Ca area and want to run week day nights and Saturdays, early morning. Let me know. I am now all comfy and ready to relax and slowly start to heal from y run. I feel really good about switching things up and am super happy. Sometimes, little things can make me super happy, and look at the smile on my face! How do you get ready for long runs? Any secrets?

Rockin the TM

I have been slightly feeling last nights workout. It feels good and it's not too bad. After work today, I had 10 1/2 miles on the schedule. I haven't been as nervous about this run as I had in the previous weeks. I knew I could do this! I rocked it. The first 6 1/2 was a little difficult. But, I then needed a bathroom break and when I came back (super quick), I was back on track. The last 1 mile I was just concentrating on how fast I was going and was really hauling ass. Of course, I set up my toe (just barely a blister, just wanted to be cautious). I really need to re-paint my toes.

After the gym, I went to my parents house, my brother was in town just for a day. That will be tomorrow's post, since I just got home and I've been gone for over 14 hours. I'm pretty tired.

This is an idea of what I've been looking like lately. I'm always eating and shoveling food in my mouth.

Last night's dinner was so good. It's what I've been craving for a very long time, a chicken sandwich (non-deli meat). I applied a thin layer of mayo and shredded the yummy amount of chicken I desired on the whole wheat bread. It really hit the spot.

So, I'm pretty pooped from 9 hours of work, 2 hours of running and visiting with the fam, so I'm going to hit the showers and head off to slumber land. Until tomorrow.

If you could eat any type of sandwich (calories and fat and all that bad stuff didn't count), what kind would it be?

Half Marathon Minus a 5k

Last night, I had the Moussaka for dinner. Surprisingly, it tasted much better than the first night. It had more flavor and taste. It still didn't taste as good as I'd hoped, but better. Maybe it gets better with each day??


I had 10 miles on the schedule to run tonight. Well, I think it was the best run of the training schedule! I felt no pain (not even my rigged toe) and I can't wait until my next run.

I rigged my foot so my blister wouldn't be effected by the run. As I'm typing this, I realized I hadn't taken a picture, yet. I'll post one tomorrow. I out a normal band aid over the blister, then duct tape to make the band aid stay on. When I took it off, I could see a small blister on the toe to the right and the current blister was very slightly effected. This isn't nearly what it wold have been if I didn't do anything. I don't think I could have finished the 10 miles.

I will be icing tonight and hoping (most likely) to be back at the gym tomorrow for a 3 mile run and spin class tomorrow. Let's see how my feet heal.

How did you feel after your first 10 miler?

Not Wasting a Single Second

I caved, I made brownies last night. They were good, but not special enough to post. I was watching the Food Network Channel and couldn't resist. I love baking!! I haven't baked since x-mas time. That is a really long time for me.

This is what our house looked like this weekend. It was a very lazy weekend for everyone.

Scoutie taking her millionth nap of the day (not very happy about me taking a picture with the flash).
Izzie trying to shield her eyes from the flash by hiding behind her tail.

Mickey is just use to me taking a million pictures (he's good at ignoring me).

I ran mile 4 miles for the day and I was even able to make it to spin class! I haven't gone for a week. It felt good to get back into it. The instructor kept repeating "don't waste a single second". We did so many 60 second hill drills/sprints. It was crazy. So, I haven't been wasting a single second. Every second is being put to good use, even if it's resting and watching a thousand hours of tv. This is good use because my legs need rest and this is how I rest (this is what a tv-aholic says).

I am pretty nervous for tomorrows 9 mile run. I'm not sure why. I got some really good advice on facebook and I now know that I will be trying my first GU tomorrow. I'm not sure which flavor, yet. It's so hard to choose. I think I will take it about mile 4 1/2. That will be at the half way mark. I can't wait, but I'm still nervous! What always curbs my nervous system is to read RW.

I'll let you know how my longest run to date goes tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Unexpected 6 Miles & a New PR

Everything went well today, as usual. Before I left work to go to the gym, I was actually able to eat a full bar. It was Clif Bar Kidz (blueberry flavor). When I opened the package, the smell of blueberries snuck up my nose. It was so good and I would buy so many more of these.


I was planning of running my usual 5 1/2 miles today, but my legs were feeling so good, I ran a total of 6 miles. I finished the 6 miles in 1:04. If you remember from Sunday, I ran my 5 1/2 miles in 1:02. What a great job I did. I wasn't even trying too hard. My goal was to push myself, but I didn't realize how hard I was pushing. I feel great (as I'm still wearing my compression socks).

Here I am on my way home enjoying the cool breeze on my sweating, disgusting, red face.


When I got home, I immediately hopped in the shower. I needed to get the salt off as soon as possible, it was staring to clump. When I got out, I started dinner. Tonight, I made Chicken Milanese with Fennel Sauce (I left out the tomatoes). The only difference was that I added some little fennel greens on top of the finished product. I paired it with brown rice.

Here's the chicken being cooked after it was pounded and battered.

Fennel, garlic and seasonings being cooked.

Final product. It was so good. I loved the smell of the fennel and garlic being cooked together. I was amazing. This went really well with the brown rice. I can't wait for left overs tomorrow.

My stomach has been hurting all night (even before I ate dinner). I don't know what's wrong, so I need to get some rest. Off to watch tv on the couch with my kittens (such cuddle bugs).

How long have you been running? What made you want to start?

I've been running for a total of about 7 years. I had put on some weight and wanted to take it off. I couldn't afford a gym or any workout things, so I just started to run. I didn't cost anything, and I could do it anywhere. I started racing, to make it more fun (I love a competition). I wanted to keep beating my last time and haven't stopped yet. With how much I've been eating, I don't think I ever could stop running. I'm an empty pit right now and I love being able to eat whatever I want (in moderation).

Great 5 1/2 Miles Run!

I was so excited this morning for my long run. I woke up just a few seconds before my alarm went off. I set it for 6:50 this morning. I had 1/2 Power Bar and some water before heading out the door. I finished getting ready and drove to a local park (about 5 minutes away). I was freezing and wasn't sure if I should wear something on top of my tank top. I do get hot so easily and sweat badly! I decided to go without.

I kept my run at a slow pace (11:30) and wanted to keep it that way. I have a tendency to go out fast and end up walking. I need to train myself not to do that. I was proud of my pace! I ran into so many people walking their dogs and only a handful of runners. It was the opposite of what I was expecting. My last 5 1/2 miler, I ran it in 59:49. Today, I ran it in 1:02. Only a few minutes slower than my last pace. I can't wait to run this again (and outside). I love this park.


It was awesome having my run finished, showered and cleaned the kitchen and ate breakfast all before 9am. I felt like I got so much done before I normally do.

For breakfast, I fixed whole wheat pancakes and topped it with some home made preserves and light syrup. I paired this with 2 cups of coffee. So yummy!!



I was starving all day. I ate a banana about 12pm and had an opened face PB&J sandwich with some chips about 2pm. I ate left over pizza for dinner about 6:30 and splurged with an ice cream cone (mint chocolate chip ice cream) for dessert. One of my favorite ice creams!

I've been drinking some apple juice this evening to quench my thirst, since I'm tired of water. I usually drink about 3 pints of water on Mondays, so I need a slight change today.

Don't forget to vote on my poll on my sidebar. And, only 2 people are needed become "fans" on my facebook until you guys get an awesome giveaway!

Question: When it gets dark and you can only run outside at night (dark), do you opt to hit the treadmill or brave the streets? I don't have anyone local to run with and I'm not sure what to do when the time changes.