OMaD - Week 3 Recap

Getting back into the swing of things!

January 10 - January 16

Day 10: 0 Miles - Slept in again before having brunch with my guy and having a full day of fun with him.

Day 11: 0 Miles - Even thought today would be the day I'd make up for no Sunday run or to do some cross training, I had some errands to run with my mom and I ended up spending most of the day away from home.

Day 12: 4.01 Miles - Slowly but surely bumping up my mileage this week! Today I faced 4 miles. The first mile and the last mile was tough, but over all it felt so good to accomplish a distance other than a 5k. After getting off my late night I surprised my guy, who had a horrible day at work, and we picked out gummy bears!

Day 13: 0 Miles -Date night! My guy likes little hole in the wall places. Tonight we ended up at a Vietnamese place. We shared some Grilled BBQ Meatballs, and I had Sauteed Black Pepper Beef. It was so good and helped hit the spot in the Asian food I've been craving. We then finally watched the last episode of American Horror Story: Asylum. Omg!

Day 14: 4.02 Miles -This was the best run since the marathon! I felt good the entire time! Though, I was a bit tired and out of breath when I ran up the hill right at the end, but I ended strong. Yay! I'm hoping that this means a 6-miler next is going to go well! Fingers crossed.

Day 15: 0 Miles - No cross training today, but I did stop by Academy to buy myself a 10 lbs kettelbell. Nothing like buying a new toy to get yourself motivated get back into shape! I'm hoping that the 10lbs isn't too heavy for the single arm moves, but we'll find out! What's nice is there are two workout DVDs included in this baby, which I'm looking forward to trying out.

Also, I bought this bad boy with my guy in mind. He's a chef and on his feet all. day. long. using his arms and hands. His muscles are a hot mess, and I'm trying all that I can to find something that will help feel even remotely better. I think we may have a winner!

Day 16: 0 Miles -Work day. Boo! I wanted to back to bed so bad all day. It was cold and gray outside! I want my sunshine back! 

Total Miles this week: 8.03 Miles 

Miles to Date: 14.26 Miles

Kettlebell image found here. 

I'm a Tip and on the Squad!

So I mentioned briefly during my last One Mile a Day challenge update that I had some good news and I did something a little crazy. Well, I thought those two things deserved their own post!

First Awesome News!

I'm a Beef Tip! Hahaha! Yes, I said Beef Tip. After applying a loooong time ago, and filling a survey not too long ago, I have been invited to join the Texas BEEF Team. This community, which is supported by the Texas Beef Council, promotes the benefits of eating beef as a high-quality protein in an athlete's diet. After I take an orientation webinar in October to get be ready to be part of the team in January 2016. So far I know I'll have to join in on certain races and volunteer at least once in order to qualify for a complete membership in 2017, which includes the Team reimbursing me for certain race fees!

I'm quite excited to see where this will take me in my running exploits! I enjoy being part of a community with a common interest, and it would be awesome to have a group of teammates cheering for you when you're running a race! Plus, I can do the same for them too!  Oh! Plus, my running buddy H was also invited on to the team too! Also, my running friend J is already a member. Exciting!

Second Awesome News! 

I'm on the squad! I feel like I went just a little crazy the other day, but I  also feel a little badass. I signed up for the 2016 SeaWheeze Half Marathon! I learned about this race put on by Lulumon through another blogger, which may very well have been Ange over at Cowgirl Runs (I can't remember). Vancouver has been on my mind in general since May, and knew I wanted to go there when I got the chance. Well! I learned about the race, and I thought this was the perfect excuse! Plus, it's an August race, which means I can make my annual vacation into a run-cation!

So! Knowing that this race is extremely popular I told my boss what my plans were and that I would give her a leave request as soon I knew the race was possible. Then the next day, the moment the clock stroke 12pm CST, I hit the registration button. I was wait-listed immediately. In dire hope I stepped away from my work desk and got the registration list pulled up on my phone.... I got in immediately! Then it was down to 7 minutes to accurately type my information in on an small iPhone screen! Wow! Oh, then my boss started talking to me too! Whoa! Crazy! But I managed it! I didn't get a confirmation email for almost 20 minutes after I had registered (which was a little different than the instant email for other races), but I checked my credit card statement I saw the charge on the account. I knew I was in! Whew! Intense. Crazy. Now I'm telling myself I need to save money so that I can afford a nice vacation to tag onto the trip up there for the race!


So, yes! Not that these are life changing things... but I feel like a whole new thing/part of my life is opening up! I'm not putting my life on hold for one reason or another. I'm on a team that could open up opportunities for who knows what. This SeaWheeze Half Marathon is getting me to out of the country (yes, it's just up to Canada, but still!) for the first time since I was in college. I don't know what will happen to me next year (no one knows their future like that... which sucks in a lot of ways), but at least I know I have some things to look forward to!

I'll keep you guys posted on things as I venture forth!

Peace, Love, Rock 'n' Roll, and RUN! 


Images found here and here.

Beginner Series - Clothes and Shopping... The Addiction!

After I wrote my post about getting into walking/running I realized that I could've talked all day about clothes and shoes in that post! That totally meant that I needed to write another post just on this topic... cause seriously... who doesn't like talking about clothes and shopping and running?

Now, for the sake of... me... I'm going to refer to the clothes as "running clothes." But, these clothes can count towards walkers and cross training people!

Where to Go for Running Clothes
Some people may think that you need to buy all of your clothes at the local running store. You could if you wanted to... and your bank allowed you to too. Some people may only want name brand clothes where you pay for the logo. Then there are people like me that pretty much finds deals wherever she goes to, and if she can score anything Saucony she's doing the happy dance!

So! Where to get your cool running duds? I've bought things from: 

• Target 
• Old Navy (my favorite place right now!)
• Academy Sports and Outdoors (their BCG brand is inexpensive)
• Dick's Sporting Goods 
• Local running stores 
• Name Brand website/outlets websites 

You may want to also try:

• Local thrift stores
• TJMaxx
• Ross 
• Amazon 
• Outlet malls

Now! Even though I just said you could get stuff at a place other than a running store there are some exceptions to the rules, which I'll mention below!

They say running is one of the cheapest/free-est sports out there... LIE!

Shoes and Socks
The #1 important thing that you need to buy... no matter the cost (cause there is no way around it, really)... is buying fitted running shoes. This is not a "oh, I'll go buy some running shoes at DSW or Target" type shoes. This is go to a running store and talk an employee (who is a runner) and have them fit you in a shoe that is best for your feet. They may have run around the store, outside the store or on a treadmill. 

When I first started out running I had crappy cross trainers from Target. I didn't get fitted for real running shoes until a year after my first 5k. I remember walking and jogging in a pair of Saucony Omi going, "Ooooh. Yum!" which is a really good sign when it comes to shoes for me. I've replaced these shoes a couple of times already (running shoes only last about 500 miles).

So! Bottom line... get shoes at a running store!

Now, as for socks! There are so many types! I started out with socks from Target, but switched to socks from the running store that like waaaaaay better. I prefer a little cushion to mine socks. I also like "no shows" cause I dislike seeing socks... and not to mention the not-so-awesome above the ankle sock tan line. Look at the running store and see what peaks your interested. 

Bras
You don't have to get running bras at a running store, but the women staff members will know their stuff and help you get fitted. What I like is my local store Run On! has Bras and Breakfast a couple times a year, which is an event for women to be fitted for bras and have some nom noms at the same time!

I have a couple Moving Comfort Fiona bras that have worked out great for me. Come to think of it, I've had them for over a year, but so far I haven't had any huge wear on them. But I'll need to get them replaced soon. I got fitted at the running store because I couldn't find a bra that stopped the bouncing from my B cups at any of the other stores. I've lost a little weight since then, but I'm still feeling secure, but, yeah, I'll be getting some new ones soon.

That being said, I did find one on uber clearance at Old Navy that is great for my cross training days!

Bottoms - Undies

Love these Runderpants! 

Ok. There is always the discussion on whether to go commando or to wear a thong or to wear shorts with benefits or to buy runderwear. I'll let in on a secret-that's-not-really-a-secret.... I wear runderwear. I wear compression shorts or capris most of the time. I wish I could wear regular running shorts with attached undies, but I do not want to worry about chafing (who doesn't!?!).

I'm in love with Saucony's hipster style Runderpants. I get full coverage in the back in and they do not ride up! Perfect! They also come in a brief style, but I was worried about coverage. I'm so glad I chose the hipster ones!

There are other brands that have their own runderewear, such as Under Armor, Moving Comfort, and the likes. Target's C9 now have their own undies too. All brands have different cuts too - bikini style or thong.

The choice is yours. You may end up trying several things out before you find the best thing for you. 

Bottoms - shorts, capris, skirts, leggings... oh, my!
Oh, bottoms. Something you really need if you end up running commando style! Hee hee!

This is a personal preference choice because all of our bodies are different shapes and sizes. It also depends on the season. Compared to men, women have gobs of choices!

• shorts with or without benefits 
• skirts with or without benefits
• compression shorts
• compression capris 
• compression leggings
• running dresses (yes, these are real!) 

For the warmer season, such as 70* and up, I wear compressions shorts that hit me mid thigh (bermuda style or a little shorter) because I still have enough curves that can cause some serious chafing down there.

For the cooler seasons 55* to 65*, I wear capris that go down to my knees. I just bought some awesome purple ones that I can't wait to wear in the fall!

In the colder season I wear full leggings that may or may not be lined with fleece.


Bottoms cont. - the color choices and those awkward sweat marks!
Everyone... for the most part... want those really cute colored shorts and capris. I admit, so do I. But I am also aware of those awkward sweat marks. You know... the ones that make it look like you peed your pants. Awkward. I know some people don't care... but I want to give newbies a heads up in case they care.

For the most part I only wear black bottoms. I do have ones that are black and charcoal from Old Navy, but I made sure that they don't show sweat. I also have a purple pair of capris, but then again I also tested them. How do I test, you ask. Well, this is gross, but I take a little bit of spit and test the hem area of the bottom to see if the fabric changes color. I know. I know. I know! Gross, but important!

I don't know what else I can say, for those who wear compression style bottoms... think about the sweat marks and if you care what others can see.


Tops
Seriously, there isn't much to worry about when it comes to tops. I wear tanks in the warmer/hot season, tees in the spring/fall and long sleeve in the winter time.

I will make a point about seams though. I tend to wear tops that are a little loser in the midsection just because I have to fit my shoulders, which are broad, first. I've tried some Academy BCG tops and I could feel the seams, even though it was suppose to be smooth seamed. Try the shirts on and move your arms like you would when you're walking/running. Do you feel any think rub? If you don't try a different size or a completely different top!


Outerwear 
What goes in this section is going to be the extra stuff like hats, gloves and pullovers. Most of this comes to personal preference, like a lot of things.


More Notes
Fabrics
Seriously. Do. Not. Wear. Cotton! Just say no to chafing! Find Dry Fit fabrics that wick moisture from the skin.  Trust me.

Runner's World What to Wear
Still wondering what to wear when it's a certain temperature outside? Runner's World can help you with their What to Wear advice page. Just select the info and it'll tell you what RW recommends. I've done this loads of time. After while you'll learn what is comfortable for you after you run/walk through the different seasons a few times.

The ADDICTION! 
Seriously, folks. Runners tend to have an addition to running clothes and shoes. You can never have enough. Never. Ever. I mentioned this to my friend J and she just nodded her head in agreement. Running is not an inexpensive sport!

Wearing a race shirt on race day
There is always talk among runners about wearing the official shirt for the race you are running. Some say it's a faux pas. Some don't care. I know some people actually worry about this. To read just a tip of the iceberg, read this article here. I generally don't wear the shirt until after the race because I'm superstitious.   

P.S. - In the time that spent working on this post... I've bought at least three more workout shirts, new running socks and a visor. Then! During Tax Free weekend I bought a pair of Oofos and a cool weather jacket that I will most likely wear even when I'm not running!

Seasoned runners... do you have any recommendations? 

So It Finally Happened....

It finally happened. After making the decision in the days leading up to Christmas last year... After a year of not giving into peer pressure (seriously, this wasn't a peer pressure thing this time around - I made this decision on my own).... After already making plans for my fall training season....

I have registered for my first full marathon!

AAAAAAAAAAAHHH!

Whew. OK. Got that out. Yes! I registered for the Dallas Marathon this morning!!!! 

I'm a bucket of full of emotions!

I'm excited!

I'm anxious!

I'm badass determined!

I'm scared!

I'm.... I'm.... I'm....

I'm a runner facing a new adventure.

My running friend and seasoned marathon runner J thinks that I'm ready for a full marathon, which is really reassuring for me. I'm really hoping that I will stay injury free as much as possible and everything that I need to prove to myself (and not) and to others will pay off!

Not wanting to dwell on things that will fuel the anxiety part of my emotions.... I had a lull at work and did a little research to make this moment on the upbeat and fun!

As you guessed it.... I looked it up!

For me, according to how many calories I burned during my last half marathon, I would maybe burn just over 3000 calories.

That's approximately eating one selection of the following... 

• 438 regular M&Ms
• 478 dark chocolate M&Ms 
• 144 peanut M&Ms
• 75 strawberry Twizzlers twists
• 27 cups of Froot Loops cereal
• 12 Oreo cookie Klondike Bars

Maybe I should keep a list going of things that I could eat after running a marathon (or during training) that I should not eat just (it'd certainly help when it comes to staying on track with my nutrition!). Oooh, more fun to be had!

 So! Starting in August - Marathon Training! Whoo hoo! 


Images found here

Even the Grocery Store Feeds the Addiction!

You know how you get coupons with your grocery store receipt? Well, at a recent trip to my Kroger grocery store I got this coupon....

See!? All those healthy foods I bought (along with my junk food - WW ice cream bars and bag of chocolate chips) is now feeding my addiction for running clothes! Granted 15% off an entire purchase isn't much, if you really think about it (I can buy a lot of stuff!), but it's still a discount! It'd be nice if I could get a coupon for a store that has regular everyday/work clothes... I'm in desperate need of new pants, jeans and shoes!

Do you also have the problem of buying more running clothes instead of other everyday/work clothes?

OMaD - Week 16 Recap

One Mile a Day challenge half way through April with a smoothie and new shoes! Woot!

Oh! Plus, today's the Boston Marathon! I'm so happy that I don't work today so I could watch it all on my TV vs. work computer!

April 12 - 18

Day 96: 9.03 mile - My long run went way better than last week's. Whew! What made it interesting? I had totally forgotten that the Big D Marathon course was using the entire lake! So for a little while I ran on the other side of the road of marathoners before, eventually, exploring the other trails that followed the east side of the lake. I decided not do a full loop, but an out and back route with the hillier trails. It was fun to watch the marathoners, and was quite inspiring!

Day 97:  0 mile - I gave in to a full day off with my mom. Shopped at the new REI, ate Chinese, and baked cupcakes with my sister. Nice lazy day - with a side of sugar coma.

Day 98: 1 mile - Perhaps it was because of the lack of sun and chillier temps, but I've been drowsy all day today - and that's with two cups of coffee this morning. Maybe it's cause I woke up early too? At least I did my mile walk!

Day 99: 3.3 miles - Second time cross training on an elliptical. Not bad. Not bad at all. Still ended up on the machine that does not have a functioning TV screen, which is quite annoying. I need visual stimulation to keep me going sometimes. Running outside already has that built in for me. Maybe I'll get lucky next week.

Day 100: 3.13 miles - Storms never came through, which means no treadmill running tonight! Whoo hoo! Maintained a sub-12 mile, which is quite satisfying. Oh, and today was the day I tried Starbuck's new Evolution Sweet Green smoothie. It was interesting. I could taste the cucumber, and there was a slight bitterness to it, which was either the spinach or the Greek yogurt or both. Overall it as sweet and tasty, but I'm not sure I would buy it often. Maybe when I need help in the veggie department.

Day 101:  2.16 miles - I had a really good day at work and accomplished a lot of "house keeping" parts of it, which is always awesome (wish I could apply that in my apartment!). I got a surprise today too... I got my new running shoes waaaay early! I order a pair of Saucony Omni 12 on Amazon Marketplace. It was said that it'd take a week for it to come from L.A. but it arrived three days after I order them! Sweet! These are my back-up pair. I have a pair of Saucony Hurricanes that I started wearing at the beginning of January, but I'm wondering if they're causing some arch aches and pains during long runs. If so, I'll wear my current pair of Omni 11 for long runs (until they crap out) and the Hurricanes for short runs. By the way, don't you love the smell of new shoes????

Day 102: 1 mile - I have a confession. I ate three - count 'em 3 - donuts today at work. I don't think my healthy apple and Greek yogurt cup can counter balance them. I had a long phone chat with a friend and soon enough the thunderstorm rolled in. Managed a walk after the storm had passed.

Total Miles this week:  19.62 Miles

Total Miles Thus Far: 211.30 miles

How was your week? 

I Just Couldn't Help Myself...

So the other day my Running Buddy H told me how she had bought two sports bras at Old Navy for $8 a pop. Ironically enough I was wondering if it was time for me to buy some new ones. It's been a year since I bought my uber nice ones from the local running store, but I've also trimmed up a bit last Fall (I think they're fine since they aren't too bad looking and I still have enough support, but you got to wonder.). I was a little skeptical that I would find one at Old Navy that would give me the support I needed, but I thought I'd take a look. It was a perfect excuse to go shopping, anyway! Hee hee.

Well, I did find a bra that works - amazing!

Then I got into a little trouble...

I found an awesome pair of purple capris - my first pair of colored bottoms! Uber exciting, but I might have to wait till the fall to put them to the running test. They'll be good for cross-training in my apartment though (I'm thinking I need to give yoga a try... again. Maybe H can come over and help.). Or for the stay-at-home movie times I have my with my besties.

And... I found a pair of compression shorts that are long enough for my uber long legs. No chaffing with any ride-up with wear here, buddy! I'm glad I found these cause I really needed another pair to alternate between (I don't run in the shorts).

So, when I decided that I needed these new bottoms, which were on sale by the way, I started thinking... "Dot! You need to spend money on clothes that can be worn at work or out somewhere nice... if you ever went out, that is."

Oh, yeah.  

So, I bought two cardigans what will go nicely with the dresses I bought during my three-day-after-break-up shopping spree. There, problem solved. You see them bunched up in the corner of the picture.

I had a bit of buyer's remorse right as I swiping my card to pay for these lovelies, but I needed them. Right? I'm still excited to wear them, which means it was worth the money!

Oh, and I finally got the correct ribbon for my Dallas Rhythm and Blues Quarter Marathon medal. I love the colors on this one versus the one that Houston got (and that I had originally) - Sorry, Houston! All I had to do was cut the old ribbon off and lace the new one through. There was velco to keep the ribbon together. Not the most comfortable thing to wear, but the medals are generally on display after I wear it the hours after the race.

Pretty colors!

How long do you keep your running bra? 

What race medal/medal ribbon do you like the best?