Happy Halloween

Hope everyone had a great weekend and has a safe Halloween! Don't eat too much candy!

Taken

When I woke up, I was in a dark room. I could hear other people in the same room, but they sounded just a scared as I was. I was so cold sitting on a cement floor. I could feel the coldness of the chains around my wrists and ankles. A door opened and a dim, yellow light came on. Only 4 other people were in the room; all women.

As the guy slowly came in the room, I could make out a creepy smile on his face. He was dirty and smelly. He had on a pair of jeans, that I could tell use to be blue, now covered in what looked like heavy dirt. The design on his white, now yellow shirt, was so faded, I couldn't tell what it was of.

As he got closer to me, I could see his long, pointy, yellow finger nails. What seemed odd to me, was that he wasn't wearing any shoes. His toe nails were just as long, pointy and yellow as his fingers. He was making this gurgling noise, which grew louder and louder as he got closer and closer to me. As he us unlocking my chains, my body became paralyzed. I couldn't move. He dragged me to the middle of the room. Now, all the women were screaming and crying. It echoed in the small, cold room.

Something took over and he tore into my lifeless body. His finger nails dug into my back, as his toe nails dug into my legs. He ripped off my shoes and took a bite into my heel. Blood was streaming from my cold body. I now know that wasn't dirt on his jeans, that was dried blood. After what seemed to be hours of feasting on my blood-drained body, he left the room.

Now everyone was quiet and motionless. I was still alive! I looked at my limp body. The first thing I notice is a huge gash on my right foot, towards the bottom. The only thing I could think was "how am I suppose to go running in the morning?".

My alarm went off and now it was time to go running in the pitch black coldness of outside.

When I got up, I dug through my running drawer (where I keep my running gear, sock, shorts, etc.) and found my pepper spray that Jason had bought a few years back. I wanted to make sure no one could take me back to that cement room.

I kept looking behind me, thinking I heard something. But, I managed to have a great 3 mile run. Just what I needed to loosen up my legs and start my day!

Does anyone else have a fear of being taken, while running (I'm not afraid of being hit by a car while running)?

All Alone

After work, yesterday, I needed some extra energy, so I was very excited to hit up the gym. Plus, I hadn't gone to my spin class in over a month. When I got there, it was not as busy as it normally is (when I go at night, I go right after work, the busiest time). I went into the locker room to change and I never saw anyone. Usually, other women are getting dressed right next to me (very awkward).

I loosened up my legs with an easy 4 mile run, then headed over to hang with one of my favorite instructors for 1 hour (spin class). I took the class easy, since I'm getting back into it. I didn't want to kill myself on the first day back. Don't worry, I was a sweaty mess by the time class was over. We did so many intervals. They've really became my friends. I love them so much!!

I went back in the locker room, to get my stuff, and not a single person was in there, I was all alone. So strange.

This morning, I went back, and I was the only person waiting for the gym to open (usually there's a group of us). The person opened the gym 10 minutes early (yeah!!) and I was still the only person in there, I was all alone (very weird). I think that once I get into the gym, it's another dimension and people are disappearing. I worked very hard this morning. I climbed stairs (level 8) for 15 minutes, did a 20 minute core workout and ended with lifting with the legs.

I am going to go cuddle on the couch with my warm cup of coffee and try to wake up some more. You know, when you come from somewhere where it's loud and wide awake, then come home where it's dark and cold and people are still sleeping, you tend to start getting sleepy yourself. That's where I am at. After I eat breakfast, I could definitely go back to sleep.

What's your routine after a nice, hard workout?

Keep Smiling

First of all, I forgot to mention yesterday, on Saturday I went for 2 runs. One in the morning, the 2nd in mid afternoon. They were both about 3 miles each, but they felt great! I have been smiling so much more since I got back to my normal routine. Here I am after run #2 on Saturday. I may have a huge vein popping out of my head (it was warm), but I was smiling!

I'm also trying to eat a little more healthy. I am now keeping a general count of my calories (a few weeks ago, I wasn't keeping track at all). I love celery with PB (lunch from Saturday)!!

Last night, I had my ripped class (aka: ass kicker). Before the class, I ran 4 glorious miles on the nasty tm. I loved every single second. Now that I'm running just for fun (not on a schedule), I'm having so much fun! Since I was drenched with sweat from class, I came home and hopped directly in the shower. When I got out, I made dinner (I was starved). Jason baked potatoes while I was at the gym, so I just had to make the "salad": 1 can black beans, 2 tomatoes (chopped), 1 t coriander, 1 t cumin, salt, pepper, 1 t olive oil and heat over high (stirring occasionally) for a few minutes. Place a little sour cream right op top and enjoy! I love this dinner, it's easy and quick (you can bake the potatoes ahead of time).

I finally was able to get my ass out of bed this morning (at 4 am). I haven't done this since before my race (3 weeks ago). I'm so glad I did it. I had a great 45 minute work out. I spent 15 minutes with my old friend, the stair stepper. Then, I headed over to my other friend, the leg weight section and lifted the rest of the time. The guy even opened the gym 10 minutes early, so it's like I got a free extra 10 minutes. Yay!! I love it when things like this are ahead of schedule.

What's your favorite part about being off season? I love being able to do what I want when I want to and not trying to work my life schedule around my workout schedule (plus I smile more when I'm not worn out). I do start back to training in December. So, I have a few months to have a "real" life.

Running Divas Fashion Show

I recently received some awesome clothes to try out from Running Divas. They are great! I already have some favorites.

The running tank is very light weight and clings where it should. The only thing is that it's not as long as I'm use to. It just gives me a reason to work on my stomach. The front reads:Pain is the test".

The back reads "yes it hurts". It reminds me of my mantra on the road id "the pain is worth it".

One of my favorites is this shirts. It's just the prefect length and hugs where it should. It's a very casual, hanging out kind of shirt. The front reads "Freakishly strong"

The back reads "I know a lot of me tell me that".

The super comfy long sleeve reads "it's who we are it's what we do".

Te back reads "when running becomes a necessity". They must have read my mind. I went crazy when I wasn't running. Even my co-workers have told me that my personality changed when I didn't run.

My new favorite comfy sweat pants. I can see myself wearing these all winter long. They fit perfectly.

Here's what they say along the side. Yep, I'm a half marathoner!

Running Divas have some great clothes. You should check them out. No, I wasn't paid, or told to say this stuff. This is actually how I feel about their clothes. I only give me honest opinion on this blog.

When not in running clothes, what kind of stuff do you like to wear?

Dark & Peaceful

Oops! I put my last photo first and don't feel like fixing it. Oh well. You guys will understand. I went on a run this morning, unplugged. I love in the dark without anything, but the clothes on my back and some reflectors. It's so peaceful. Look how happy I am to be back to running (I'm wearing my Urban Cow Half Marathon shirt).

See why it freaks me out to be running in the dark, sometimes. This is the bridge that I cross (foot traffic only). It looks like something you'd see in a horror movie where the girl gets slashed and the crazy guy finds where she lives a tortures her husband (why, yes, I do have a vivid imagination and I love horror movies).

Man, I look tired! I am, but I got my ass out of bed anyways. You can't tell, but there's a cute little stream behind me. And, the sun is getting it's lazy ass up.

Much better (on my way back). This is the hill (small) that I'm always talking about. I love seeing the sun rise over this hill. It's gorgeous!

I have some errands to run. Hey, maybe, if I keep my smelly clothes on, I would go for another run this afternoon. I think it's worth the try.

Anyone race this weekend? Is anyone (local or not), doing the Shamrock half in March? Where is your favorite place to watch the sun rise?

Sore Chocolate Milk Drinker

I can tell that I haven't been working out. My upper legs are still sore from Monday night's ripped class. I am showing you where they are sore while drinking chocolate milk:

It's probably not a great picture, but you get the point. So, on Saturday morning, I'm getting up early and going for an outdor run. I'm loving this weather and I can't wait to run in it.

What type of weather do you prefer to run in?

A Dead Body & Grilled Cheese

Last night, I made it to the gym!! I loved seeing familiar faces and working my body the hardest it's worked since my half. I am pretty sore right now (I feel like a dead body), but in a good way. I had planned on going this morning, but my body still wants to sleep in. That's ok. I'm fine with that. I'll work on the 4 am wake up call next week. I'm building the miles and enjoying the workout, again.

Last night, I ran an easy 5k, lifted leg weight and finished the night with my hour ripped class (which completely killed me). I'm going back tomorrow night for my spin class. I can't wait!

I've been making so very good food (may not be good for you, but at least it tastes great). Here are my empanadas made with chicken, paprika, hard boiled eggs and cooked spinach, inside a puff pastry.

Here I am prepping last night's dinner. I'm cutting the cheese (ha, ha).

(I'm not pointing, I'm cutting the sandwich in half)

I think this may have been the best dinner of the week. It's homemade Tomato bisque (lighter version)
with grilled cheese sandwiches. I remember as a kid, my mom use to pour out a can of tomato soup and always pair it with grilled cheese. Always a happy memory when I make this.

My body definitely needs a rest day, so it worked out prefect that I slept through my alarm this morning. Tomorrow, I think I will climb stairs for 20 minutes, work the legs and finish the night with a good old fashion spin class.

When you finish with your racing season, do you stay on a schedule, or just play it by ear?

Drinks & Fungi

Remember a few months ago when I started my decanting process? Well, it was time to finish the process. It was time to pull out the jars from the dark corner and strain them out. Here's what the strawberries looked like after 3 months.

The final product is much prettier and tastes much better. My favorite was the strawberry one. It smells like a can of kerns juice.

Look what we found in our tomato planter. These are little fungi growing in there. We did some research of what they are and if they will kill the plant. We found this and this. So, we're safe! They look so cool!

My working out will start back tomorrow evening. I will be back on track and spending a nice amount of time sweating again. I did enjoy the time off, but am glad to be back. I'm not on a training plan, so I'm not going to be so strict with myself. At least until December when I start my new training plan for the Shamrock Half in March. I can't wait!

I Had Good Intentions

Last night, I set my alarm for 5 am. I laid out all my clothes. I woke up at 4:30 am and changed my mind. I couldn't make my body get up in 1/2 hour. I needed/wanted more sleep. I really wanted to go out and run in the dark cold morning air, but my body had another plan...sleep. It didn't happen this morning, but it will soon!

My dinner last night was chicken and dumplings. I made it be using: 2 cans of cream of chicken soup, 1 can of water, 1 bag frozen veggies (I used peas and carrots) and 2 boneless skinless cooked chicken breasts all mixed together. The topping is home made dumplings. This is the perfect cold night dinner! Very filling and satisfying.

I'm really into soups right now. Does anyone have any good soup recipes?

The Toe that Lost the Fight

This is what happened to my toe after my last race. It doesn't hurt, at all. I've painted my toes since and it looks a little better.

This only happens on my left foot. Never my right. And, it only happens after 13 miles or more. Sometimes, I wish my camera didn't take good pictures. I hope you guys weren't eating while reading this.

What are your post-race ugliness?

I'm Alive!

I'm doing well after my half. I've just been taking in all the free time and relaxing and hanging with just me and Jason. We haven't had time, just the two of us, for some time now. It's good to take some time off.

It's starting to get chilly here, so I'm keeping warm and drinking warm tea and coffee. I love this time of the year.

How do you spend your "off time"?

Urban Half Marathon Recap

4:15 was an early wake up call on race morning. But, my body was ready and my legs were hungry for some miles. I ate some oatmeal and drank 1 cup of coffee to help things along before we left for the race. Jason is the photographer for this post. Thanks hubs!

We parked about 1/2 mile away (following the direction fro the pre-race email). Parking was a breeze. The start line was very visible (of course). There were so many things to look at, so many vendors. It was a little chilly in the morning, so I wore my jacket that I gave to Jason to hang on to while I raced. They did have a bag check, if people needed it. Cow stuff was everywhere (not the poop, actual cow stuff):

When they said a 7:30 start, they really meant it. The count down clock barely hit 0:00 and we were off.

Since this was in Sacramento, the course was super flat and fast. Spectators were everywhere!! The held signs, cheered and rang the (annoying) cow bells. People stood outside of their homes and cheered for us. When we were on the bike trail, I watched some guys fishing, everything was so entertaining! Photographers were everywhere (at least that's how it seemed).

My heels never hurt, just a slight hip pain, but nothing major.

My official time is 2:26:58. I finished 218/362 of females 30-34, 1179/2232 in females and 2248/3541 overall. This was a great race and I can't wait to do this one again next year! The only thing that got annoying really fast was all the cow bell jingling. That noise for about 3 hours was deafening. I still had a great time, though!

After chugging my chocolate milk, eating a chocolate chip cookie and about 3 bottles of water (can you tell they also had a great post-race food spread), we headed home so I could take a fast shower, change and head back out. We had a 2 hour drive ahead of us.

We were finishing off Jason's birthday celebration with lunch at a brewery. It's called Laguintas Brewery in Petaluma. We had never been there before, but we've had their beer from Bevmo. It was pretty easy to get to.

before we sat, down, we knew we wanted hamburgers (we both had been craving them for a while now). We ordered our beers, then took a look at the menu, and they didn't have burgers. So, we each got our own panini. They were good, but they weren't cow.

They happen to have a live band playing while we were there, which was pretty cool. The restaurant was mostly an outdoor restaurant (glad it wasn't raining). There were sections were they had a beach theme with sand. It was a very laid back place, which we desperately needed!

After the brewery, we headed downtown to walk around and grab a coffee (it was a very long day). It was a very fun day, but we really wanted to be home, cuddled under a blanket (it's starting to get chilly here), watching movies. So, when we got home, that's what we did!

How did every ones weekend go?

#3 in the Bag

Well, I finished my third half marathon of my first season. It was a great race and I loved every minute of it! My time was 2:27. I will be taking this entire week off of any form of working out.

Afterward, I took Jason to a brewery 2 hours away. It was a lot of fun. Just, made for a very long day. My camera is all the way in my car, so I will post a full re-cap of the race tomorrow. I hope everyone had a great race weekend!

'Tis the Night Before the Race

So, tomorrow morning is the big day. I am running my last half of my first season. Don't worry, there will be many more seasons to come. I already have my next half planned for next year (in March). I will keep running and blogging about my adventures. I love running too much to give it up.


Last night, I picked up my packet downtown. It was so organized. I loved it! Here's my shirt, bib, d-tag and pint glass that I get to fill up once for free in the beer garden. I love the shirts! The race is called Urban Cow, so that's with all the cows stuff.


Jason has some friends over right now (that's why I'm posting so late). So, today, I'm going to carb-load with yummy pizza (no beer, though), and rest like a dead woman. I have lots of movies planned and reading some running books. It's going to be a very chill day for me.


Goals:
To finish the race un-injured, happy and having fun. I wish to finish under 2:30, and anything under 2:15 will be even better (that will set a new PR).


Plan for the race:
I will set out at my own pace and not worry about others passing me the beginning. I have fruit chews (no more GU after my last half) that I have tested out and know that they do their job. I usually take the chews about 5 miles and 11 miles. I will drink my hand carried water throughout the race and only take water at the air stations (about every 2 miles). Whenever I drink Gatorade, my stomach get sick. I will have a great time and enjoy the surroundings and the bands along the course.


Music:
I don't have anything set for the exact music and time hat I listen to it. I will start the race without having my mp3 player on, and will turn it on probably about mile 4. I have Marylin Manson, System of a Down, Metallica, Sublime and so much more on it. I will be pumping to the hard beats!


Post Race:
I will enjoy the live music, and chocolate milk hey will have, along with the yummy foods. Afterwards, I have to head home as soon as possible, because I am taking Jason out to conclude his birthday celebration. We are driving about 2 hours away to go to one of our favorite breweries (that we haven't gone to, yet).


Tomorrow will be a blast and will go by so fast, but will be a great day! So much to do to prep for tomorrow, so I better get everything laid out, so I don't freak out tomorrow. Enjoy your Saturday!


How do you get ready for a race?