The run that made me cry

I did get up early and run. But I ran out of time to post about it. Yesterday was a fun, but crazy busy day. Lars had a play date with a friend at a trampoline play place. He loved it!

Four days in a row, I managed to get my butt out of bed and out the door. This morning was one of those mornings where you don't wake up until the run was over. 

I was in bed about 10 pm, but I was so tired. Every time I opened my eyes, I would cry. Tears would pour out of my sleepy eyes and down my salty, sweaty face. It was just a mini run before the boys got up and Jason left for work.

After Lars got up, (Shane sleeps a little longer than Lars) I got in another ab workout. My abs take only about 15-20 minutes, so it's easier to sneak these in when I can.

I'm having trouble running and getting my leg day and arm day in. It's a motivation/time thing. I'm too lazy to get up earlier than I already do. 

Where do you get your motivation? Any to spare?

1st run with the double stroller

I usually only run in the weekends, when Jasons home and we don't have to rush off anywhere first thing in the morning. Spring and summer time are very difficult to do that. We usually have things going on every single weekend. 

I belong to a moms running group here and someone on there (never met them before) offered me there old double running stroller. It was so sweet of them. They did mention that it was pretty dirty & had been sitting in the rain. Since I like to clean, I figured why not?!? I picked it up (10 minutes away from my house) and it's not that bad. One sunny afternoon, Lars and I cleaned it while Shane napped. It does have some stains, where the boys sit. But, it's not as bad as I was imagining.

I took that bad boy out for a test run this morning. We ran across the street, at the very local park. Lars hasn't been in a stroller in a very long time, so I wasn't sure how he would do, especially sharing the stroller with his brother.

They did great! Shane kept his hands folded the entire time, watching the trees, birds and everything else in his view. Lars kept me entertained by pointing out every trash can and water fountain we ran by.

Lars didn't like that we kept running past the swings (and actual park play area). Once I explained we would go play once I ran 2 laps, he was fine. 

I ended up running 2.36 miles at an extremely slow pace. I'll get faster once I get use to pushing both boys in this stroller. Tomorrow, we're going to run to another park (couple miles away), play and have a picnic. They will love it!

Who's your running partner (kids, dogs, another human, etc)?

For the love of jumping jacks!!

Here's the recap from this weekend. I'll start with today and work backwards. 

Getting up this morning was super tough, being the 2nd day of the time change. I hate any kind of time change! But, I managed to get up before the boys and get in my cardio workout! I'm super proud of myself. My workout was mainly a ton of jumping jacks & some squats, lunges, crunches and burpees thrown in there. The 30 burpees and 35 push ups are what really killed me this morning!

Yesterday was super stormy (heavy wind and tons of hard rain). It was also the 1st day of the time change. I just couldn't get my butt out the door to run my miles. So, I decided I'd be happier (& not regret) staying home with my family and staying in my pjs. It was time well spent!

I did have a break in the rain on Saturday morning, so I was able to get out there. Trees were down and leaves were everywhere. It was still so nice out & I loved sweating out in the sunshine!

If you're on Instagram, follow me: @shellydavid99

What's the weather like in your neck of the woods? We are suppose to be back in the mid 70s for the weekend!

A run after the storm

On Saturday, it really stormed here! Trees fell over (not in our yard), branches blew off, palm debris was everywhere and so much more. It made running after the storm an obstacle course. At one point, I had to go in the middle of the street in order to get around a huge tree. When I got back from my run, Shane and I went outside to watch Lars & Jason pick up sticks.

Here's my WOD. I did this three times and got a little sweaty. It's not like when I do my legs! But, I still feel satisfied when I'm finished! The first time I did this workout, I only did one round and felt tired and dead! I'm really showing some progress!! I'm so glad I'm getting my body and fitness level back.

After the boys woke up, they were fed and dressed, it was a movie kind of morning. It's dark, cloudy and rainy here today, so it's the perfect day! Here they are cuddling watching Lorax. Lars loved it, but Shane could only watch a couple of minutes (he is only 5 months old). 

Do you venture out between storms for your runs? What do you like to do on rainy days?

Catch up & a run

This weekend, I was able to get in one run. It was perfect: great weather, tough legs &happy family when I got home! 

I'm running in spring weather. Tank tops have made a few appreances the last few weekends. This is what I walk up to when I get back from my run. I love seeing his face when I get done with my runs!

I was so tired yesterday, I fell asleep instead of blogging. So, I'm catching you up from the last time we spoke. 

Here's my arm workout I did yesterday. I found the one I love! It's been a day and a half since I did this & my arms still

Hurt!

I added some tricep dips at the end. The pain is great! We relaxed a round the house playing around and making silly faces. It runs in the family!

Today's workout was brought to you by my upcoming six pack:

It was a great way to start my Monday! I added a couple of my normal sets too. Other than that, I think this is it! Now, I just need to find the perfect cardio routine...

I have 3 pounds to loose until I'm really happy (& lots of toning). I'd be extremly happy if I lost 7. Slow & dreading wins the race.

How are your goals coming along?

The sticky runner

I love my mornings! They're even better when I'm able to play with my boys, then go for a run through my local parks.

It had just rained the day before, so everything was still wet and muddy. Yay!

I ran my old route (when Lars was a baby). There are more hills than I'm use to. I also did some sprints. Hills + sprints = a very sweaty & sticky Shelly!! I even got stuck in my jacket when I got home.

After my half hour run, a recovery drink & lots of stretching were in order! I hate having sore muscles. The next day, I didn't hurt too much!

Because things have calmed down here & Jason was home this weekend, I was able to run Saturday & Sunday! I haven't run 2 days in a row in way too long!! It was great! Jason has a 4 day weekend coming up, so I should be able to run all 4 days! Can't wait...

How many days in a row do you run?

Runners feet & baseball

My feet are already showing my runs. They are already getting beat up. Jason hates this part of my running. At least I have all my toe nails again!

On my workout day off (I take 2 a week), Lars and I headed out back to play with his birthday toy we got him.

He likes it! He has pretty good hand eye coordination. Lars starts soccer in a couple months. Baseball won't start until next year (he needs to be 3). All the really fun stuff is about to start now!

What sports are you into?

Motivation I Needed

Lately, I've been able to get in 2 or 3 runs a week (which is really good right now). I've been pushing myself and working really hard. Sweat, sweat and more sweat keeps pouring off of me.

I've also continued with my normal routine of arms and legs, in addition to running. I tell you, the arms workout has really been paying off. I've finally been able to do a 1/4 pull up. I have a stool that helps me reach the pull up bar (so I can lift myself up to hold myself for a few seconds) and I can now pull myself up from the stool (which is shorter than I can touch the bar). I'm so proud of myself!! I'm making progress!!!!!!

Lars loves it when we have a pit stop at a park and are able to play for a while. He's really into sitting on the grass and playing with the grass or leaves that are close by. 

I have a little over a month until my Spartan Race and am making progress. It's not the progress that I wanted (I wanted to be able to do a full un-assisted pull up by the end of the month).

Have you ever done an obstacle race? Should I wear shorts or running capris? Are your clothes trashed afterwards? Sports bras with running tank or just a sports bra?

How's your training going? What is your motivation?

Running with Friends

Working out with people are the best! It doesn't matter who they are, as long as you have a great time! It's so much better than running by yourself. 

My running partner may not be able to have a conversation with me (at least yet), but he does keep me company. He makes all kinds of noises and laughs while we're running. Lars prefers to have me run, while in the stroller. He gets uncomfortable when I stop or walk. He keeps me motivated to keep running. 

I've noticed that my lungs are getting stronger and I can take in more air and run longer. I'm slowly getting back to my old running ways. 

After a good run, Lars and I often go to a local park (run to it) and play (for about 1/2 hour). It's not fair that I have all the fun (running), he deserves some fun too (swings and bouncy horse thing). 

What do you do after your runs?

Sweat like you Mean it

Ever since I fell in love with running (again), I've been doing it a lot more. Of course, I have to arrange my running schedule around a little man. I think I've been doing pretty good. There's always a lot of sweat (I don't go out past 10 am) and I've been working out my lungs. My lungs are my weakest part of running. Here's what I look like after my run, every time (notice the veins shooting out of my hands):

This is what I've been eating lately. It has Stacey's tortillas, cooked dice chicken, cooked bacon, lettuce, tomatoes and a little ranch. It was so good!

This little guy has been enjoying his Cheerios, green beans (pictured) and yams. We had a period of time where he would refuse eating any type of food. We found out that he wanted to feed himself. He's pretty good at that now, but still needs to practice. He loves to practice!

Can't wait for tomorrow's run!

What have you been eating?

When Running is Fun

The great people at Eeboo sent Lars some great things to try out. They are meant for older kids, but he can still have fun with them. The first thing (his most favorite) are the nesting blocks. He loves to chew on them and thinks it's hilarious when a car crashes into them. The other thing they sent were some "tell me a story" type of book. Basically, they are just pictures and you make up your own story. I have the one pictured and the robot one. He laughs at the stories we make up. I'm not sure if he understands them, but he still laughs.

Lars has started walking, while holding on to our hands. He walks all over the house. He's not stable enough to walk alone, but this makes him happy. Ever since this started, he's been eating more (from me). Ever since he's been eating more, I've been starving and can't shove food in my mouth fast enough. Here's what my plate has been looking like lately (not the healthiest, but all home made).

I've been running lately. I've been forcing myself to do it. I've never regretted it. I'm always happy during my runs. It's just that I hate getting out the door and I didn't always like the actual act of running either. This week has been different. I absolutely love running again. I'm having so much fun and enjoying every second of being outside working up a sweat. I love this feeling! It's always great to love your workouts!

Do you love your workouts? What do you do to get your sweat on? When did your kid(s) start walking?

Frozen

I don't eat much in the frozen food department, but I was sent some awesome tamales. I think I could count how many times I've ever eaten a tamale. It's not that I don't like them (they're pretty good), I just usually go for tacos or burritos if I'm at a restaurant. 

Cedar Lane sent me a few different tamale flavors to try. 

Not too bad on the calories and ingredients.

The flavor was beyond what I expected for a frozen food item.

Their foods are all natural and the tamales are gluten free. This is what I'm looking for when I'm in a pinch. My little man can take up a lot of time (and energy), so it's nice to not have to cook sometimes. 

On another subject...RUNNING!! I've finally got up to running 3.1 miles, as you may know. My foot is still healing from the blister, but I've been running anyways (I know, not all that smart). The other day, it was so nice. I was able to run with the stroller umbrella down (again) and Lars was able to car watch. He loves that! 

It really tired him out though. All it took was a little mommy kisses to wake him up and I got this smiling face again. In case you were wondering, he has 2 teeth (on the bottom). He's not all gums anymore.

What type of frozen foods do you eat? 

Red Faced Runner

When I can fit it in (at least 3 times per week), I run when Lars wakes up from his first nap. Since I'm starting from scratch, I'm running 3 miles right now. Every time, 3 miles. Lars is usually wide awake and taking in the scenery and "talking" about what he sees. He always wears his sunglasses and never takes them off (unless we're in the shade for a long period of time). When I went on one of my runs last week, as soon as I ran into our driveway, he crashed. Sound to sleep. You almost can't tell which one of us did all the running.

He's usually a light sleeper. I can't make too much noise, or he'll wake up. Not this time. I took him out of his stroller, laid him on the bed and started making a lot of  noise (trying to wake him...he had just woken up). No luck. So, I did some things I needed to do to him (clean out his nose, ears and clip his nails). Still asleep. So, I decided to let him sleep. I picked him up (still asleep) and laid him in his crib. As soon as his head  his the mattress, his eyes popped open. He was awake for another 2 hours (as normal). Silly boy. I guess the run really took it out of him!

The other day, we had a little fun with water, indoors.

I stripped Lars down to his diaper and strapped him in his high chair. I poured water on his tray and put some floaty toys in the water. He loved it! he started stock pilling toys on his chest. Best indoor water fun he's had!!

How do you (or your kids) stay cool? We also eat a lot of popsicles (ice cubes in a mesh container for Lars).

I have a Confession...

I can't do a pull-up. Not for the life of me. I can not lift my body weight up a bar and back down. This is very sad, especially since I only have 128 days left until the Spartan race. From what I've seen, upper body strength is a must! I have none! Some major training is in progress now. 

Since I've had Lars, my arms have felt weak. Since he's been putting on weight, they're feeling stronger. But, I'll need to be able to lift more than a 16 pound baby up during the race. When I started working out again, a few months ago, I was only lifting 5 pound weights. That was difficult for me. I have upgraded to 10 pound weights now. I needed this step!

                             

I followed this workout (yes, in flip flops and after a 2 mile run in running shoes) that I found online (I'm horrible at remembering where I find things). It was a killer! I did this workout on Tuesday, and my arms are just started to feel some what normal. I guess that means it's an arm day!

                            

After I finally took a real shower (which doesn't usually happen until after Lars goes to bed for the night), we headed to our local library for balloon animals. The way they described it online, I thought we watched someone make balloon animals (which he loves to do). Nope, this was a class on how to make them. Oh well. We stayed and watched all the big kids make balloon animals. Lars loved it! He kicked his legs and blew bubbles the entire time.

                           

It was worth it! I'm still glad we went!

How do you warm up before a workout?

Do you take a real shower after a sweaty workout before leaving the house?

Do you like balloon animals?

Running Stroller Runs

Before I had Lars, I knew I was going to go back to running (I walked a lot while pregnant). I knew I needed a good stroller (but not pay a million dollars). We ended up buying the Graco click connect stroller. It's super easy to strap Lars into and he seems very comfy in it. He loves going on his runs (and walks)!

I haven't been running for very long with him (hubby works, so I had to wait until his neck was strong enough). I'm starting from scratch (which is so difficult). I've lost all my fitness. But, I love a good sweat. The very first run was tough (only one mile for the test). I went to a local park and started running.

Pushing the x amount of weight of the stroller (+ almost 16 lbs of Lars), that's a lot of extra weight I'm not use to running with. It's so worth it, because when the time comes to toeing the line again (I won't be racing with Lars), it'll be that much easier.

I always give Lars his favorite toy (right now it's this dangly zebra thing), hooked on to the stroller, so he can't throw it out while I'm running. He usually "talks"while I'm trekking along and plays with his toy. He's pretty happy while we're on the move. He hates it if I have to completely stop. 

After the first run, I couldn't stop sweating. My lungs hurt, my abs hurt and my legs were on fire. Funny to think I wouldn't even feel like this after 13 miles, in the past. I will get back to my old fitness level. I know it takes time and I'm willing to put in the time. 

I'm so glad that Lars loves being outside all the time. It makes running so much easier, especially since I cancelled my gym membership long time ago. I have 3 months to train for the color run 5k and 5 months to train for the spartan 8 miler (more on that next week).

What race are you training for? How many miles do you run a week? Do I have any other running strollers mommies out there?

*****I paid for the stroller on my own. This was not in any way sponsored by Graco. These are my own thoughts. 

I'm BACK!!!

I'm back!!! So much has been going on since I last blogged (I can't believe it's been almost a year!). This is how I spent most of 2013. I loved every minute of it. 

December 30, I gave birth to Lars. He's the joy of my life. I love being a stay at home mommy. Every laugh, cry, dirty diaper and squeal gives me such enjoyment (and not in a weird way). 

Lars is now 4 1/2 months old and does so much. He's getting ready to crawl and loves touching everything and tries to put everything in his mouth. 

Since I do so much more than just work, run and come home, I've decided to change the focus of my blog. It's going to be more of a healthy running mommy's life kind of blog. I still make good food (chocolate cheesecake):

Since Lars' head is now strong enough to be in the running stroller, I've been running again. I try to go every day, but sometimes our schedule doesn't allow it (same with the weird weather we've been having). I will try to post something at least twice a week, if not more. Just depends on how the days go. I've changed some design aspects on the blog (check out the new header). Let me know what you think!

I already have a couple races lined up for myself. And, I even have a pretty awesome giveaway (for next week). My next post will talk about my running with the stroller and how that's been going. Man, that's a full body workout!!

How many mommy runners do I have out there (even if you don't run with your little one)?

What races do you guys have on your schedule?

What do you think of the new stuff on the blog (I've also added to the about me page)?

Getting Back to My Old Self

All week, I've been back to my old self. I'm back at the gym, and running more. No, I'm not getting up at 4 am to head to the gym. But, I have been spending a couple hours each night spending my free time trying to get as much salt in my eyes as possible. 

When I get home, this is how I spend a few minutes (about 15 or so). Laying down, with your legs up like this after a hard workout (tough on your legs) will allow all that horrible acid drain out of your legs, so they won't hurt so bad the next day!

On Monday, I was stuck running my 5k indoors, because of tornadoes touch downs (I know, in Sacramento??). After 33:54 on the dreadful treadmill, I headed over to the group exercise room for an enjoyable 60 minutes getting ripped, in my favorite class.

Last night was pretty fun, too. I climber 81 floors of stairs (1.67 miles), then stretched out in an hour long yoga class. It was just what I needed after that ripped class and especially all those stairs. I'm going to start keeping track of how many floors I cruise up and try to beat it each week.

Tonight, I have another indoor 5k (it's suppose to be pouring tonight; it is right now) followed by a 60 minute spin class. 

I better work my butt off, just in case we don't get a lot of trick or treaters, so I can enjoy my leftover Halloween candy.

How do you make it possible to workout hard the next day (stretching, putting your legs in the air, etc)? What are your Halloween plans? Are you dressing up, if so, as what?

Best Running Week So Far

All week, I have been running outside and loving every minute!!! I

I've been running after work (about 5). I'm so use to it being blazing hot and dreading the heavy breeze. Well, this week, it's been in the low 70's with a heavenly breeze and nice, warming sun. It's almost my prefect running weather (perfect=60 degrees, sun, but a little mist in the air).

On Monday night, I ran my usual 5k route. I loved it! I've also been testing out a new product (can you guess). As soon as I test a little more a review will come your way.

It was a great run, but when I was at that wedding on Saturday, and in heels, I got some gnarly (yes, I said gnarly) blisters. The biggest one was on my pinky toe. I completely forgot about it, so I didn't cover them up. Well, about 1/2 mile into my run, I felt them.

Last night, I didn't want the blisters to ruin my longer run, so I took care of  them early. A couple of band aids made my night!

I had a couple of major stop lights on this run, so the time isn't all that bad (I don't stop the time while I'm stopped). 

While I was on my run, I was enjoying listening to my music and watching the cars drive by (rush hour traffic) and I wasn't paying any attention to where I was running. I ended up at a dead end pathway and almost ran into some bushes at the end of a 4 foot drop. I'm sure glad I noticed before I went off the edge. That would have been embarrassing!

Even though that mishap happened, I still had a great run (and my blisters didn't even bother me). Here's my super happy smiley face that was caused by the greatest run of the week, so far...

When I got home, my calves were already starting to get tight (I haven't really pushed myself in a long time, for that far), so I needed to wear some compression gear. I knew I couldn't wear my compression socks (because of the blisters on my feet), so I remembered I was given a pair of  RecoFIT compreession calve sleeves to try out. I  put those babies on and within 5 minutes (not exaggerating), my calves were already feeling some relief. 

Here are a few modeling shots I took (myself, yes, I'm proud). 

The material is very soft, and soothing, they feel great!

Here's some information from their website:

* RecoFit’s calf compression components superior design and materials include GreatFiT ™ -- Gradient Recovery Exercise & Activity Technology -- delivering gradient compression where it’s needed most to reduce negative exercise and travel effects and maximize recovery. Careful pattern-making and construction provide gradient compression from the ankle up towards the knee, helping to return the blood to the heart.
* Resistex Negative-ion circulation assistance through Resistex™ carbon yarns increases blood oxygenation and supports the immune system as well as offering ribbed massage, compression, moisture-management and breathability.
* Superior materials featuring the finest breathable and most comfortable Italian fabrics and flat-seam construction that do not bind or irritate. The contour and cross-grain-cut of the fabric provides maximum compression benefits.
* Versatility and performance: Recofit components are more versatile and specific than shorts, tights or socks.

Check them out!!!

Any funny running stories lately? Have you fallen into a puddle of water or stepped in dog poop or stopped to smell the flowers?