tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31852363114485643472024-03-05T05:40:22.473-08:00MichRun4Fitness, Food, & Running 4 You!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-4752635757217057162014-10-11T20:31:00.001-07:002014-10-11T21:26:27.849-07:00Saturday's Shenanigans<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-R_ATtHZ2eVldNoxuPBspdDL0-QdUM3pxAA5TltswTCA-P_CtEQg_X2LDQ7QH9hDcj0L4uZzJ5fDuyxyrxXLOJes3OoqjXseBassHLlg1lLLUDdC_o4ULx3ayvjRRVSGHe9cCIK6hSek/s1600/blogger-image--46480030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-R_ATtHZ2eVldNoxuPBspdDL0-QdUM3pxAA5TltswTCA-P_CtEQg_X2LDQ7QH9hDcj0L4uZzJ5fDuyxyrxXLOJes3OoqjXseBassHLlg1lLLUDdC_o4ULx3ayvjRRVSGHe9cCIK6hSek/s320/blogger-image--46480030.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-R_ATtHZ2eVldNoxuPBspdDL0-QdUM3pxAA5TltswTCA-P_CtEQg_X2LDQ7QH9hDcj0L4uZzJ5fDuyxyrxXLOJes3OoqjXseBassHLlg1lLLUDdC_o4ULx3ayvjRRVSGHe9cCIK6hSek/s640/blogger-image--46480030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>The goal of today was to pack as much in as we could. I think we managed! I suffer from 'I hate to be home all day -itis'. Most weekends my hubby works Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 13 hour shifts. If I am without adult conversation and stuck indoors the whole time I start to go a little cuckoo's nest. So we started out this morning by me dragging the boys out of bed bright and early to support a great charity event hosted by <a href="http://runeattweetaz.com/">Run Eat Tweet AZ</a>. The rest of the peeps in the group did a run together. I am still not cleared for running. So I brought the boys' bikes and walked while they rode. The boys had a blast. There was lots of people walking their dogs, or running around the big lake at Chaparral Park in Scottsdale. I was just happy the boys didn't run over any puppies, or ducks from the lake! The charity event was for the <a href="http://maxcurefoundation.org/">Max Cure Foundation</a>. It was so incredible to learn of their program and all they do to help fund cancer research. Our group donated 3 huge packed bags full of shoes that went towards their cause.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am so glad another mommy from the group brings her cute boy so mine can have a buddy!</td></tr>
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We all went out for brunch after the event. It was fun to visit with everyone since I did my own thing during the run. By the time we left 'Morning Squeeze' restaurant, it was only 11:30 am and we had nothing planned for the rest of the day. The freeway systems in AZ still freak me out after 7 years. I still get lost everywhere. But we were already out so we were gonna make the most of it and waste some time having fun. First stop was the Chandler Mall. The boys love the play place there. I love it because it's: air conditioned, the boys can run like crazy, they have soft seats for me, and I can sit and wave at the boys while checking stuff on my phone. An hour to Instagram and Pinterest, yes please! Any chance I can squeeze in some 'me time' while the boys think I am watching them play is good in my book.</div>
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While the kids played I snacked on the <a href="http://huppybar.com/">Huppy Bar</a> I was given to do a review on. I wanted to like these so bad. The ingredients are amazeballs. So clean, and all natural. I live on bars since we are always on the go. I don't think I have ever seen a bar with all the super food in it before. Nuts, seeds, organic oats, flax, etc However, I just didn't like it. It contained spirulina, a superfood, and I think I tasted that too strongly. If you have a palate that can take strong flavors and wholesome ingredients than this is a bar for you. After a good hour at the play place we browsed a few clothing stores. That went pretty good until the boys decided to trick me and hide under the clothing racks to quietly watch me panic and run around yelling their names. They would pop out and yell BOO just giggling away. I don't know if I should've laughed or paddled them. I had about enough of the trying to shop, but we couldn't leave without spending another hour in the Lego store. Free fun is about my favorite thing in the world. The Lego store is always a hit because they can build Lego's, play interactive games, and I am mean enough to be able to leave the store empty handed not having spent a dime. I am lucky that my kids have learned that although I may like to do fun things with them, and most days are centered around them, I rarely buy them something unless they have earned it. I don't want it to be a battle every time we walk in a toy store. I don't want them to expect to come away with a new toy each time. </div>
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We capped off the day finding a great park to play at. I was starting to have some negative self talk by this point. Friends from my running group had started texting pics of our morning's event. Between looking at those pics and trying a few outfits at the mall, I was starting to get down about my figure. None of the clothes I tried on looked good. My arms are starting to look like linebacker arms. My shorts leave intentions on my gut. I hate to blog about body image because I know we all look so different. But I do believe that this is a topic we can all relate with. I have put on 8 lbs since surgery. I haven't run in 89 days, but spent lots of those days eating like I was still running. 3 months ago I could still find stuff I didn't like about my body. If only I could get rid of my back fat or my butt more lifted and so on. What would I give to have that body I previously had! Why did I have to find stuff wrong with it when now I wish it for it back? Why do we do that?? Most women can find some thing wrong with our self image no matter how fit or unfit we are. I am sure that a time will come that I will look back and think, "why the heck could I have not just been happy with how I looked after surgery compared to now?!" I want to make a conscious effort to STOP that negative self talk. Hopefully if you struggle with this, you can join me in this effort. I was pushing my boys on the swing while whining about my gained weight in my mind. My oldest son Kade suddenly yelled out to me... </div>
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"Mom guess what? I am so lucky!"</div>
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"Why are you so lucky bud?"</div>
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"Because I have the best mom in the whole world".</div>
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I immediately teared up. I owe it to my boys to love myself so that I can love them. I owe it to my family to be happy with who I am no matter if my arms are perfectly toned or not. I have to accept that no matter if I am 115 lbs or 125 lbs, there will prob still be something I don't like about my body. But I need to punch those thoughts in the face. My family and friends do not care what I weigh. I don't want to let that negative self talk dictate my mood any longer. </div>
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We got home in enough time to get dinner ready for my hubby after his long day. It was grilled cheese and apples for the boys and chili for Nate and I. Yes, I make separate meals every night for us. I envy the moms who are determined enough to just make one meal and the kids know they have to eat what the parents are eating or they go to bed hungry. I am not there yet. On the nights I cook, the boys get a separate meal of nuggets or mac&cheese etc. You just do your best right?! The boys are great a drinking green smoothies but still struggle with eating veggies. If you are a chili lover then you have got to try this. Ground turkey, diced chilied tomatoes, whatever cans of beans you like (I do pinto and black), corn, and my favorite is El Pato' sauce mixed in. I microwave a sweet potato and throw the chili on top. Paired it with my favorite way to eat veggies which is oven roasted. Spray a little EVOO on top and there you have it. Easy, simple, and pretty healthy. Hope everyone had an eventful weekend. And remember to love your imperfections!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-13082724381774696942014-10-01T17:52:00.000-07:002014-10-01T18:58:14.399-07:00Magical Running Shoes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One thing that most all runners have in common is our love for running shoes! Runners are a funny breed and most of us hoard running shoes. Guilty here! Between my hubby and I, we go through an insane amount of running shoes. It is important to change out your shoes anywhere between 200-500 miles. We tend to aim for the 400/500 mark because of the cost. My hubby averages 200 miles a month. When I was healthy I averaged 160 miles a month. That has us buying a new pair of shoes every couple months. Yikes!<br />
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So question is, what do you do with your worn out shoes?? Use them for walking, yard work, chillin shoes, lifting weights?? <br />
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What is it about a running shoe that makes it SO dang hard to part with? Some of those darn running shoes have a hold on me! A lot of blood, sweat, and tears happen between you and your shoes. <i>"Our running shoes have magic in them-the power to transform a bad day into a good day; frustration into speed; self-doubt into confidence; chocolate cake into muscle"-By Mina Samuels.</i> I still have the pair that I ran in while running my first marathon with my hubby. We finished hand in hand (yes, I admit we are total cheese balls). It was back when <a href="http://www.stgeorgemarathon.com/">Saint George Marathon</a> still did the chips on the shoes. I took that picture today of my shoes, the chip is still laced on them. I will never be able to part with those stinky shoes. We have gone on to do 7 Stg Marathons together since then. We leave tomorrow morning for this race. This will be my dad's 18th Saint George Marathon. I have the fondest of memories watching him race there. It is one of my very favorite family traditions that I have. I will be cheering from the side lines this year because of my ankle surgery. I am heartbroken that I have to miss it, but I am still happy to cheer on my family and the other runners.<br />
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If you are being honest with yourself. You really don't need to hoard old running shoes. Your closet and garage space will thank you if you find something worth while to do with them. Nate and I love to donate our shoes (Well besides those ones mentioned above lol) We have given them to friends in need and different charities. Many of the shoes still look brand new! Too many running shoes get thrown away or just take up space. Your worn out shoes really can make a difference to another person.<br />
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There is an AWESOME opportunity on October 11th to donate those worn out shoes. I totally understand that we all have that one pair that is just to hard to give up! BUT, what about the 2-10 other pairs laying around?! The awesome running group that I am a part of , <a href="http://runeattweetaz.com/">Run Eat Tweet AZ</a> , they are joining forces with <a href="http://dunkyourkicks.org/">Dunk your Kicks</a> for Pediatric Cancer! They are collecting those worn out shoes and all proceeds go towards local Arizona Children! Everyone who donates a pair of shoes will be entered into a giveaway for a $100 gift card to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FleetFeetScottsdale">Fleet Feet Scottsdale</a>...Yes Please! What an awesome chance to get money for a new pair! So anyone who happens to be in AZ Oct. 11th should come check it out. There will be multiple group runs available:<br />
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<ul>
<li>10 mile long run starting at 6:00 am</li>
<li>5 mile run and a 3 mile run/walk starting at 7:00 am</li>
</ul>
Everyone will meet at Chaparral Park in Scottsdale for scenic views around the Lake. Go check out <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1550340145201954/">Run Eat Tweet AZ </a>Facebook page for more details.<br />
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Oh, and some more perks about coming: 1. Meet some awesome running peeps 2. Warm fuzzies for serving others in need. 3. Additional drawings for FREE race entries into <a href="https://www.facebook.com/startlineracingaz">StartingLine Racing Events</a> events!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-17458422913564926542014-09-15T11:18:00.000-07:002014-09-15T11:20:57.585-07:00I am a wife. I am a mother. I am a runner<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGQPsvtULhckf36mX7b7_vaW7N2M4ApdmGfgcN37JuNd3r1ZT17kaCqf07N6jRHbQ04yISEEo2YMhTPWKxjCyBwlmgdT6Z8mPrIH-F4LcfXDezIqAK0n4mvc1YgUO2iTjUeCiYPSse6E/s640/blogger-image-1030718375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmh7Uzg_61BmgdfW6vEx_SAfFCG19ZEGMOsUftw4Dn9ig7v4SY8jsWeY3YvQzv9pJsXwXi24ugwNER4coJIXezp9atwc8faee8sPzBabHHdu1IhDY5PFrvXw0MPELq9JTdMOH_2w_mfoQ/s640/blogger-image-1903986985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmh7Uzg_61BmgdfW6vEx_SAfFCG19ZEGMOsUftw4Dn9ig7v4SY8jsWeY3YvQzv9pJsXwXi24ugwNER4coJIXezp9atwc8faee8sPzBabHHdu1IhDY5PFrvXw0MPELq9JTdMOH_2w_mfoQ/s320/blogger-image-1903986985.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">This post is going to be all about my thoughts. I
won’t be offering any advice, or be sharing any recipes. I am going to try to
express myself in a way my limited vocabulary will allow. I am not a
professional writer or blogger. I am very busy, but find joy in all things TMI.
I have been an over share-er my whole life. I enjoy expressing myself and
connecting with other people that may have similar thoughts. I also enjoy learning more about people with
very different views. I am a people person, and love to talk about life. I am
sure every post I write will have grammar and spelling errors. I can hardly
find time to blog, let alone pour hours over editing. But I don’t want to let
the fear of showing my imperfections stop me from doing something that I have
found joy in these past few months. Especially with my recent surgery, I have a
LOT more time on my hands. I can’t run, or even work (since my job is group
fitness)…so I may as well write! Not all of my posts will be like this. I am in
a self discovery; tell all mood (injuries seem to do that to me). So here
goes! It’s all about my thoughts on
becoming a wife, becoming a mother, and still being a runner.<span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4oNve1sNlkxMdnjFs9e6M40fCZgRBQXEL5AEhopcpOL00jFq3og2SOwVsBCaTWSy1vaTgkI2jo0yj6IV76BxbZug6ufY4g6q6-iV9jxSXEhZqqmf4fKq74cs6WqmuqNG3kxdFBV9sPo/s640/blogger-image--1500707314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4oNve1sNlkxMdnjFs9e6M40fCZgRBQXEL5AEhopcpOL00jFq3og2SOwVsBCaTWSy1vaTgkI2jo0yj6IV76BxbZug6ufY4g6q6-iV9jxSXEhZqqmf4fKq74cs6WqmuqNG3kxdFBV9sPo/s320/blogger-image--1500707314.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">My cute barf baby Zane!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">I often wished I was a mom that was fulfilled by all
things motherhood. To be honest, I
really kind of hate lots to do with it. Gasp! Ahhh, I am an awful mother, who
could ever say such a thing?! I know that to be completely false. I know that I
am a very good mother. I love my 2 boys with every single ounce of my soul. I
would do anything for them. I am their mama bear of protection. They have my
whole heart. I am grateful for them every single day. I can’t imagine my life
without them. I know more about selfless love than I ever knew possible. Sometimes I have confused my feelings with not
liking “motherhood things” with being a bad mom. I have shared much about that on my Instagram
family page. Through journaling, and
writing, I have been able to understand my feelings and differentiate between
the two. I don’t like lots of things
that are stereotyped with being a stay-at-home mom, but I do know I love being
a mother. I suffered from extreme </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">postpartum</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> depression and anxiety. I really hesitate even talking about this
because I don’t even like to reflect on who I was at that time. But I talk
about it in hopes that it can help any other moms struggling with PPD. I hated
feeling claustrophobic and stuck to the house during nap time. I hated being on
a rigid schedule. I hated that I started to resent my husband when he got to
leave for work or got to sleep. I hated mommy and me groups where all everyone
talked about was milestones and birthing stories. But what bothered me most, is
I hated myself for having these feelings. I never hated my boys. Not even once.
And I also never regretted having them. I loved them more than I ever knew was possible! So what was wrong with me? Why did I
have to have such conflicting feelings that were making me feel crazy??? <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO2bBu-IYOStHGdGm_G5D-gNDulCJBXJVL3uYnD45H6omD5WS5gIKMbGGksOWmfnPpSrb_l2KigMNhGmEcuB3ZFLPvdPWsdVTjM_t-mDc6t31TMytScVLsrhK8TivWJR-XX0erUntsE04/s640/blogger-image--1384251085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO2bBu-IYOStHGdGm_G5D-gNDulCJBXJVL3uYnD45H6omD5WS5gIKMbGGksOWmfnPpSrb_l2KigMNhGmEcuB3ZFLPvdPWsdVTjM_t-mDc6t31TMytScVLsrhK8TivWJR-XX0erUntsE04/s320/blogger-image--1384251085.jpg" width="230" /></span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Let's rewind a bit...To tell you a little bit about my personality: Growing up I did student government every
year. I loved being involved in as many clubs, sports, and activities as
possible. I always got excellent grades. I loved being up on stage during
assemblies. I loved the crowds at football games. My friends and family were my
whole world. I grew up as an only girl
with brothers. I would consider myself a feminist in the way that I felt the
need to prove that I could do anything they did. That being a woman would never
hold me back from achieving everything I ever wanted. I just expected a lot from myself, and
thrived when accomplishing things. I went into college with a leadership and
sports scholarship at <a href="http://www.suutbirds.com/SportSelect.dbml?&DB_OEM_ID=20100&SPID=11716&SPSID=95837">Southern Utah University</a>. I became captain of my college soccer team. I was the NCAA
woman’s representative for our school. I loved nothing more than living with
roommates who became my best friends. I loved every minute of the bonding that
goes with team sports. I went to all the campus activities. I loved my freedom.
I continued to get straight A’s in college.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">After college I </span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">wasn't</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> ready to settle down. I moved
in with more friends and started teaching 4</span><sup style="line-height: 115%;">th</sup><span style="line-height: 115%;"> grade. I continued to
love my freedom. I went out every night. I was involved with work friends, my church group;
I held many leadership roles and truly was happy. I started running marathons
because soccer </span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">didn't</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> consume my whole life anymore. I began teaching fitness
classes, picked up mountain biking, tennis, volleyball, coed softball, hiking, and
basically ANYTHING that involved being around people and being active! Most of
my friends had started getting married and settling down with families. I still thought relationships were
suffocating. One could say I was a hot mess, but it was just who I was. I often wanted to be someone who could be
more selfless and giving. I wanted to be like some of my friends who found
their joy from settling down. However, I just wanted to rule world with friends
by my side, not a man. All until I met Nate, the love of my life. I </span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">couldn't</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> help myself, I fell in love. This freaked me out more than he or even I knew at
the time. To say our first year was rough would be a little understatement. Was
it all bad times? Absolutely not! I loved my husband dearly. It was just a huge
adjustment for me. We moved to Arizona right off our Honeymoon. I </span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">didn't</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> know a
soul. My family, friends, and former life were still in Utah. I started
teaching right away, and Nate started school. We both were runners before we
were married. It was more of a hobby than a way of life at that time. I knew I wanted kids. I </span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">couldn't</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> wait to be
a mom. I had no idea how hard it would be for me mentally.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> Just like
marriage, it was a big adjustment for me transitioning into motherhood. I
wanted to be the one to care for my kids so I was fortunate to be able to quit
my job. But becoming a stay at home mom
was hard. Very hard! Just like
everything else in my life, I wanted to attack parenthood with all that I had.
I wanted to “win” it! Only thing is, almost everything is out of your control.
No matter how much you research, plan, or love your baby…you have no control
over most of it! Even if you are trying your best, your baby may not sleep.
Your baby will cry. Your baby will poop everywhere. Your baby will steal your
heart. But I started to lose what made me tick in the process. I spent any
extra hours when my baby finally slept searching online for what I could be
doing better. I signed up for sewing lessons because moms are “supposed” to
know how to sew for their kids, right? I purchased these crazy pots and pans
thinking it would turn me into a homemaker/cook. Only good moms know how to
cook, right?! How could I love my baby so much, but hate everything I was
turning into? I lost myself in the process. I </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">didn't</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> trust myself. And when it
came down to it, I just </span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">wasn't</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> prepared. It was no longer just all about me and
what I wanted. What I later realized is that being a mother turned me into a
different me, and you know what, that is okay. It’s all about growth! I had to
learn to be honest with myself. Did I really want to learn to sew? Heck no! Did
I want to scrapbook? Never again. I am still learning to be okay with that. I
am learning to not be jealous of others who so naturally took on that
homemaker/motherhood role. Motherhood
made me more understanding, less judgmental, more patient, and loving. Let’s be
honest, any moms out there know the list goes on and on. But I still hated
parts of my life; I felt like a maid, I </span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">didn't</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> like the responsibilities that
came with growing up. I missed the feeling of not leading the masses, or being
on stage. I missed that feeling of
personal growth.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp05O43_XCLISlIFQyYwOLYSMfUzJwlrH3LY_bdJmgVEiKj8lZ57e95FwojQ9_Ji5D2cv23jUhmm5XAsFq2t2ezYD49B2qkxcUjP3i1BSf7Ofd1ni7WvoXdI69uhOY19hHgPT3qz7hLsQ/s640/blogger-image--473367601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp05O43_XCLISlIFQyYwOLYSMfUzJwlrH3LY_bdJmgVEiKj8lZ57e95FwojQ9_Ji5D2cv23jUhmm5XAsFq2t2ezYD49B2qkxcUjP3i1BSf7Ofd1ni7WvoXdI69uhOY19hHgPT3qz7hLsQ/s320/blogger-image--473367601.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">This is where I believe running saved me. Sounds
super cheesy! But it did. Racing more gave me something to work for. I could
set goals and see growth. I learned that is still okay to be human after you become
a parent. It is okay to want something for yourself. In fact, I now believe it
is healthy for kids to see you are still a person. That you still have hopes,
and dreams. It would be a disservice to grow up believing the whole world is
all about you. I discovered I could
still give my all to my kids and carve out a little time for self growth. I
developed deeper friendships and bonds with other runners. I am such a social
person and always cherished that bond that came from team sports. It is
something that I really don’t have to words to explain. I started to find that
again through running. I made lots of
friends at my gym. I decided to re-certify and start working part time teaching
fitness classes. Working a measly 4 hours a week did a lot for me mentally. I
began seeing growth in my marriage and parenting. I had the sense to let go of
who I thought I was supposed to be, to just be myself. My crazy, loving, over achieving, social self.
Running brought me a new contentment to
life. This happiness overflowed into my
marriage and into my parenting. When you are truly happy and content, it
affects every part of your life. For those that question how we can find the
time for so much exercise and still be good parents should see what it would be
like for us without it. In my heart of hearts I know my kids have not suffered
because of the fact that I like to run and go to the gym. I do know my whole
family </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">would've</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> suffered if I stayed depressed and miserable. Running gives me
a passion for life. It gives me more energy. It makes me feel young. It
refreshes me, so that when I am done I am stronger physically and mentally to
take care of my family. It is a bonding passion my family shares. My boys don’t
suffer when I wake up to run before they even wake up. They don’t suffer by
spending time in the running stroller with me. They don’t suffer if we get a
babysitter for two hours so that Nate and I can get precious time as a couple. So even if they spend an hour in the gym
daycare (which they love). I still am home to feed them breakfast, lunch, &
dinner. I still have many, many hours to play with them in between. If I don’t
leave the house or do something that is just for me, then I go crazy. Call me
selfish. But I call it finally understanding who</span></span><b style="line-height: 115%;"><i> I</i></b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> am, and what </span></span><b style="line-height: 115%;"><i>I </i></b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">need
to be a better mom.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">10K Turkey Trot. First Race with both babies. The double stroller adventures had begun!</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0K-HkiRU_GrOi3FjgexmNngAg-vFNabw7qJUbRML9OqjpFJ0YSVOMmRD09iQ9bByS0UbxH8Ws3DXSOxoZ8hyphenhyphengFEu6FWuW5ZEPtJaM1H_GnQoJgwexcYT8hFjhdv8cjkvMNDz3sxAQIbs/s640/blogger-image-2108637563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0K-HkiRU_GrOi3FjgexmNngAg-vFNabw7qJUbRML9OqjpFJ0YSVOMmRD09iQ9bByS0UbxH8Ws3DXSOxoZ8hyphenhyphengFEu6FWuW5ZEPtJaM1H_GnQoJgwexcYT8hFjhdv8cjkvMNDz3sxAQIbs/s320/blogger-image-2108637563.jpg" width="243" /></span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">My boys are best friends. My husband is working hard
to get back into school. We have our ups and downs, but when it comes down to
it, I have a lot of peace and contentment in my life right now. I am amazed
that I am at a place where I can say that! I just had surgery that is keeping
me sidelined from my passion for many months. I feel blessed that I was at a
strong enough point mentally the surgery </span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">hasn't</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> completely crushed me. I am
trying my hardest to not slip back into the depression I experienced as a new
mom. Yes it will be a long road. I </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">wouldn't</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> be doing so well without the
incredible support of my hubby, our extended family, and good friends. And even
the support of social media. Funny to say that, but many friends I have met
through the running community have been from social media. They have been
nothing but a positive support. I am at a good place mentally to know that this
will not defeat me. I without a doubt know I will get through this. It is really hard to not know which direction
my life is going to go after I get back onto my feet. Will we try to add to our
family? Will we be moving if Nate gets accepted to school? Remember the old
days when the game MASH planned our lives so perfectly for us?! I knew from MASH that all I wanted was 5 kids,
living in a mansion, married to my favorite Dodger </span><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">baseball</span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> player <a href="http://www.truebluela.com/2013/1/7/3820584/steve-sax-1988-dodgers">Steve Sax</a>. If only
it was really that simple! I know that I don’t want to do something because I
think it’s what I am “supposed” to do. I learned that lesson from my sewing
days! I guess all you can do is trust in yourself, and turn to God for guidance
when it comes to making big decisions. And
keep moving forward with faith. </span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I am grateful to be a mother. I love being a wife. And I hope to always be a runner.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-49299212238468281752014-09-04T20:35:00.001-07:002014-09-05T18:04:56.018-07:00Clean Running Fuel :: Guest Post by Zucchini Runner<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br>
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Hello loyal readers of MichRun4! I hope you don't mind me popping in for a quick visit, while Michelle and I do our blog swap. (If you want to see her post on my site, head on over to <a href="http://zucchinirunner.com/">Zucchini Runner</a>) Michelle and I are helping to spread the word about an up-and-coming local running group #RunEatTweetAZ. As a matter of fact, we met for the first time in person at the inagural #RunEatTweetAZ meetup at South Mountain. I didn't know everyone who was attending, since there wasn't an official event, but when I put 2 and 2 together and realized I was talking to the amazing <a href="http://instagram.com/michrun4?modal=true" target="_blank">michrun4</a> I had been following on Instagram, I got a little excited! I knew she was a running powerhouse so of course I was stoked to get to know her better. If you've never met Michelle in person, she is the sweetest, most positive person you'll ever meet. Injury or not, that girl will be up and running in no time! A new friendship was formed (actually many new friendships were formed) that day. So needless to say, I am very grateful for #RunEatTweetAZ. A big thanks to <a href="http://confessionsofanamateurathlete.blogspot.com/">Jeremy Heath</a> for organizing it!</div>
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Now onto the topic at hand... I've had quite a few people ask my opinion about clean running fuel, Michelle included, so it seemed like the perfect blog swap topic. Nutrition is my passion, and I'm currently in the process of completing my Holistic Nutrition classes at <a href="https://swiha.edu/">Southwest Institute of Healing Arts</a>. So please bear with me while I vent slightly at first; it may help you understand why I do what I do and why people ask me this question often.</div>
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As a runner, when you hear the words GU, Shot Block, gel, Sport Beans, energy drink, etc. what comes to mind?</div>
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Be honest.</div>
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Are they necessary evils or something you truly enjoy putting into your body?</div>
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When I hear those names, I think sugar, GMO (genetically modified organisms - because sugar is a top GMO crop), peaks and valleys, furry teeth, gut cramps and even dare I say borderline poison for our bodies. (This is where I need you to bear with me...) When we were chasing down animals for food or gathering plants to eat waaaay back in the day or even in the 70's when running became an everyday craze. We certainly didn't need any of those items to keep us going... so why do we think we need them now? Is it all marketing? Is it all just a bunch of hype?</div>
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I'm of the firm belief that our society is struggling with the obesity epidemic, because of the human desire to want to monetize anything we can. Food has been the number one essential in our daily living that has undergone the largest pollution. Mother Nature is smart. Our bodies are smart. If you look at a whole, real apple or banana on the molecular level, you will see it is a living piece of fruit. Can we all agree that every <em>living</em> thing radiates and contains a certain amount of energy? Now, how much living energy do you think is in a packaged product, created in a lab, and loaded with simple sugars? The point is, food that is as TRUE to it's natural state as possible, is the way to go in my humble opinion, as well as based on what I've learned and experienced personally.</div>
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You may be saying, or asking yourself, 'then why were all these items created in the first place?' Convenience. Ease of ingestion. A quick fix. That is the society we live in. But in the process of trying to make things "easier" we are polluting our bodies with products so far from the way nature intended, that we are simply creating more problems. </div>
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So if any of this resonates with you and you've been on the hunt for some more natural ways to fuel your runs, I've got some whole foods suggestions below! I've personally tried all of these food choices, with the exception of the potatoes, but it's up to you to find the right combo for your body!</div>
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<strong>Medjool dates stuffed with coconut oil</strong></div>
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<strong></strong> </div>
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<strong>How to use:</strong> Remove the pit from the date, and fill that empty pocket with coconut oil that is semi soft. Coconut oil melts at 72 degrees, so this doesn't work for summer fueling! Wrap with aluminum foil (I've found that is the easiest way to access it while running. Skip the baggie or saran wrap...) Lastly, be sure you buy organic, unrefined, extra virgin coconut oil. If you are using multiple stuffed dates, and this will be used during a particulary long run or race, you should also grind some pink Himalayan salt into the center.</div>
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<strong>Why its good:</strong> Medjool dates contain high amounts of naturally occurring sugars, which give you that boost you need to fuel a long run. Since the sugar is accompanied by fiber it absorbs at a slower rate into the body, which helps you avoid the peak and crash of gels. They are also high in potassium. Coconut oil is a medium chain fat, which means it can be used immediately for fuel in the body since it does not store easily in the body. </div>
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<strong>Bananas</strong></div>
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<strong>How to use:</strong> Pretty self explanatory, but bananas can be used before, during, or after a run or race. If you want to use them during, you can cut one in half and leave the peel on. Even breaking the peel a bit to get it started, to make it easier to consume while running! You can place it in a small snack baggie if you want to keep it clean, and have a place to stash the peel. This is especially good for trail running, if you have a nice pocket on a hydration vest. ;-) Just beware, you MAY attract some bees. </div>
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<strong>Why its good:</strong> Bananas, like medjool dates are packed with both sugar and potassium. Potassium is good to prevent cramping. </div>
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<strong>Salted Potatoes</strong></div>
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<strong>How to use:</strong> I haven't personally used this one -- YET -- but I've known quite a few ultra runners who use potatoes as fuel! Simply boil and cut into circles, salt and bag.</div>
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<strong>Why its good:</strong> They are high in calories, carbs and if you salt them you can get some sodium intake as well.</div>
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<strong>Energy BITS</strong></div>
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<strong>How to use:</strong> These little bits of green fuel are easy to pop at any time! Before, during or after a run or race. You take 30 bits and swallow them with water, no chewing required. You can order them online through EnergyBits.com (if you want 15% off, use coupon code 'zucchinirunner')</div>
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<strong>Why they're good:</strong> Energy Bits are 100% pure, organic spirulina... well here, this blurb from the site says it best, no reason to recreate the wheel! "<span style="color: black;">Algae was the first plant life on earth almost 3 billion years ago and is considered a superfood because it contains virtually every nutrient. It has over 60% protein content, over forty vitamins and minerals and a <span style="text-decoration: underline;">more complete amino acid profile than beef or soy beans</span>. It is also one of the best known food sources of beta carotene, B vitamins, antioxidants and chlorophyll." Pretty sweet, huh?</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: small;">Lemon Water</span> </strong></div>
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<strong>How to use:</strong> After a run squeeze the juice of one whole lemon into a 20 oz. glass of ice water. Feel free to sweeten it a bit with some raw honey, 100% pure maple syrup, or coconut sugar.</div>
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<strong>Why its good:</strong> Lemon water promotes alkalinity in your body. Running and putting all that stress and strain on our bodies, builds up a lot of acidity. Treat your body right with some alkalinizing lemon water after a run! It will help balance out the pH of your body. </div>
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If you want to get fancy, here is a recipe you can follow: <br>
2 c. water <br>
1 c. ice <br>
1/2 c. fresh squeezed lemon juice <br>
1-2 tsp. coconut sugar or maple syrup <br>
2 pinches pink Himalayan salt <br>
It is tasty and rejuvenating!</div>
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I hope some of these ideas have helped you venture into new fueling territory. Get creative and try new things; tell us how it goes! The most important thing to remember with real food vs. the quick fuel is the time it takes to react in our bodies. Give yourself a 15 minute window to feel the effects. Also note the effects will be gradual, so if you are looking for a caffeine-like ZING that won't happen with real food. </div>
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<br>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-26110726595081983072014-09-03T12:28:00.002-07:002014-09-03T21:57:30.236-07:00Tips for running hills<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitOlk06_3I_Y4406bR9mT8w2FWqRQx-VizK2vQE_RHmX8NW3GnSA6FW7oAJMSvw-3vSIG61T5mWbH7WZvx0B6n0ON5CojqTgjnyPc_rpwawzuN_2NXBhB6KQurVRBVFArFHAP2QH5eWWE/s640/blogger-image-263010828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitOlk06_3I_Y4406bR9mT8w2FWqRQx-VizK2vQE_RHmX8NW3GnSA6FW7oAJMSvw-3vSIG61T5mWbH7WZvx0B6n0ON5CojqTgjnyPc_rpwawzuN_2NXBhB6KQurVRBVFArFHAP2QH5eWWE/s200/blogger-image-263010828.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">A key component to racing is to understand how to
run up those hills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was very fortunate
to work with Coach Ryan Knapp, the creator of <a href="http://milestogoendurance.com/">Miles To Go Endurance</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He gave me great coaching advice going into
races on how to handle the uphill portions of the race. Do NOT stress about the
pace. If you try to maintain the same pace up a steep hill as you run the
flats, then you are almost certainly setting yourself up to bonk <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>later in the race. You need to trust yourself,
and be in tune with your effort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now I
am not saying you need to walk/crawl up those hills. You will see the elite
runners cruising uphill. They still follow this advice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is very smart race strategy to worry about
effort. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ask yourself: How does your
breathing sound? Do my legs feel like they are working harder than they should?
You want to be using the same effort throughout the whole race. If you can
maintain a steady 8:00 mile on a flat, then you need to slow down when running
up a hill. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The good news is, you can
make up for it on any downhill. If you are running with the same effort
downhill, that 8:00 pace effort will mostly likely switch to a 7:30 or so. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQI4FfRtQbXmh_C8YKjYYjE-i4WSGTHRm-2CJilo21DMRT8RRNWBoEIszylmMs8uRvFtZ1ozhvBfsGbfqQMfjnRf3Vm67L1C43ifufidXf-aoRApCiHhESJtmmB7UBpfuq3VNIczSUgA/s1600/201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQI4FfRtQbXmh_C8YKjYYjE-i4WSGTHRm-2CJilo21DMRT8RRNWBoEIszylmMs8uRvFtZ1ozhvBfsGbfqQMfjnRf3Vm67L1C43ifufidXf-aoRApCiHhESJtmmB7UBpfuq3VNIczSUgA/s1600/201.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John Bozung</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I had the opportunity to meet and chat with John
Bozung right before I ran Utah Valley Marathon this past June.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This guy knows his stuff!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Such a friendly guy, and man does he have
some good stories!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he was 52 years
old he decided to run 52 marathons in 52 weeks! He was the 2<sup>nd</sup>
runner to ever run a marathon in all 7 continents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is 61 years young today, and just finished
his 364<sup>th</sup> marathon. No, that is not a typo! He said the most
important advice he could give me when racing a super hilly course, is to run
the hills based on effort. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He warned me
multiple times to not push myself to hard during the uphill. So if two knowledgeable
runners and coaches were both telling me the same thing, then I was definitely
going to take their advice. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">What can you gain from pushing too hard uphill?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">A higher concentration of lactic acid
build up<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tax your maximum aerobic power <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Fight to propel yourself forward while
working against gravity<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">You will maybe save yourself a few extra
seconds, but at what cost?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Running downhill is a whole other beast. You can
make up some serious time downhill, but you have to be aware at what it is
doing to your body. Downhill running is more strenuous on the legs. The extra
pounding will pay a toll. If your body is not prepared for that pounding, it
can increase your chance of an injury.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you have a chance to run downhill on a more forgiving/softer surface,
you can train those different muscles that will be used on race day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even if you are racing on pavement, it doesn’t
hurt to practice running downhill on grass or dirt to avoid that harsh impact. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Jack Daniels (No, not THAT Jack Daniels!) the famous
running coach Jack Daniels from Daniels Running Formula created a perfect “rule
of thumb”. His rule states: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Every
percent gradient of incline (going uphill) will slow you by 12-15 seconds per
mile, and every percent gradient of decline (going downhill) will aid you by 8
seconds per mile”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boston Marathon’s “Heartbreak
Hill” is a 4.5% incline over 0.4 miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So mathematically, you can expect to be about 21-27 seconds slower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use this in your race planning if you have a
finish time you want to hit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now Jack
Daniels is a famous coach to world renowned athletes, and he was a former
Olympian himself. We would all benefit if we take this awesome advice when planning
how to attack our next hilly race! Once I learned how to race smarter, my times
automatically started to get faster! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6cBh1H6OUkaJJh8t3KTEJ4smr4sD7zhYBeyEycVOsu7Hw5znV30Oz2V4H47uePJdhXc2qZyUUWAzFV9LXGMD3Tb7sWo_GPsf2Y7LhxwR4rpCqwh3jt9a8A_iX9kTtonGfO98qiZ0S6E0/s1600/082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6cBh1H6OUkaJJh8t3KTEJ4smr4sD7zhYBeyEycVOsu7Hw5znV30Oz2V4H47uePJdhXc2qZyUUWAzFV9LXGMD3Tb7sWo_GPsf2Y7LhxwR4rpCqwh3jt9a8A_iX9kTtonGfO98qiZ0S6E0/s1600/082.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best way to get better at running up & down hill is to train those hills!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-3654717834214885932014-08-27T14:34:00.000-07:002014-08-27T14:36:43.171-07:00Prepping for an Ultra Marathon<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This post will be all about preparing the right gear
to run a successful Ultra. Of course, the most important thing is to find what
works for YOU. I have spent the last few years crewing & pacing my husband
in Ultra Marathons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have changed
strategies many different times. I am sharing with you what we have discovered
works best for us!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">STEP
1:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
Understand the course! You have to pack very differently for each course. Know
the difference between:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Looping
course </span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">These courses allow you to return to the
finish line a number of times while you loop around the course. The advantage
of looping is becoming familiar with the course; you know what is coming. I
actually prefer loops in trail running, while others find it kind of boring to
repeat the same loop. This type of course has been said to lead to more DNF’s<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Did Not Finish) because it allows the runner
to come back to the start line and stop there. This tends to be the easiest course
to support because your crew can hang out in a central area while the runner
loops and comes back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During the looping
course we load up a big, plastic, storage bin thing with all the gear.
Depending on the distance of the loop, this may be the only gear we have. If
the loop is longer, we will pack a small bag to be dropped at a different aid
station. The small bag must always have batteries, extra head lamp, maybe
special fuel options, and some Body Glide. If you need a new pair of shoes, you
can bust out a few extra miles to get back to the start line/headquarters…but
if you run out of batteries, or it becomes dark sooner than you expected, then
you don’t want to have to wait till you get to your crew box for support. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We learned this the hard way while pacing Emz
at her 100 mile Cold Water Rumble last year. She had to run in the dark for 4
miles till she got back to the loop turnaround where the crew was all waiting. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Out and back <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">These races start at
one point, run a certain distance to another point, then turn back to the
original starting line. An out & back will require more drop bags. Your
crew may still carry a box if they the course allows crew support at aid
stations. My dad and I crewed Nate during Utah's Squaw Peak 50 Miler. There were
lots of aid stations that didn’t allow crew support. There was no vehicle access
to many of the stations because it was in the Rocky Mountains. Nate had to be
sure to put things he might need in small drop bags to the stations crew was
not allowed at. Most races have very well supplied aid stations! In fact you
truly can get away with bringing nothing, and only using the stuff the race
provides. But if you are at all picky about fuel, it really is best to be
prepared! We have run races that have run out of water at aid stations! Crazy
things can happen. It really isn’t hard to throw a small bag together of a few
necessities. Many times our drop bags go untouched. But its so nice to know you
have what you need just in case!<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Point-to-point<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This type of course
starts at one place, and ends at another with a pre-determined distance. I
personally like this type of course best while road running. Trail running is
so much more technical, so I do like the loop so I know what is ahead. While
road running, I can look up and take in the views. I like to see different
scenery during the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many runners like
this course because if you get half-way and decide you want to be done, then
what are you gonna do? Turn around? You may as well finish! Ultras don’t have
vans driving along side of you giving you the option to throw in the towel and
ride to the finish. To be prepared for a point-to-point Ultra. You must find
out how much access your crew has to seeing you, and pack accordingly. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">STEP
2:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
Do your research! Find out how many miles are between aid stations. Know what
type of fuel the stations will have. You don’t want to try anything new on race
day! My very first marathon (Saint George Marathon in 2005) I just used
whatever gels they were handing out. I had never tried that brand before. I had
no idea how my stomach would handle it. And I wasted too many minutes in the
outhouse with GI troubles! I still managed to get under 4 hours, but what a
waste. Lesson learned, I now only fuel with items that I have tested during
training. Luckily, most Ultra races have lots of different options at their aid
stations. The longer distances require more calories, so it is nice to have the
variety! Now you can absolutely show up for a race empty handed, not knowing
about the course or aid provided. We have all done it! However, if you have
trained your ass off for months, and this race is an important one for you,
then DO YOUR HOMEWORK and BE PREPARED! You will have a much better chance of
being successful by doing those things.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It’s
all about the storage tub!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Xemd_vR52inlQGxER8Xhj2UIX4bVrpGgmHPCYVvo5PLl9YYLw0dKSUAFJN0LsOcblcbbDkJKOO8Ox6c9BkcH1Clv7ZRJJ7Om90qGKzfMAX8o6nGxvwjSbidOSWJXIVQB6mAHHrFtebo/s640/blogger-image--872264033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Xemd_vR52inlQGxER8Xhj2UIX4bVrpGgmHPCYVvo5PLl9YYLw0dKSUAFJN0LsOcblcbbDkJKOO8Ox6c9BkcH1Clv7ZRJJ7Om90qGKzfMAX8o6nGxvwjSbidOSWJXIVQB6mAHHrFtebo/s200/blogger-image--872264033.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">A 50K-50mile distance
will not usually require as many things. Generally these distances don’t
require a shoe or clothing change. As long as you are racing with shoes that
you know work for you and clothing that you know won’t rub weird. The 100k-100+
mile races would require lots more times in your storage box. With all that
being said, an Ultra in extreme temperature (really hot or cold) it would be
smart to be prepared with more support in your box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We used to only use duffel bags for our drop
bags. We found it frustrating riffling through, digging for the item you are
looking for. You want to get in and out of aid stations as quick as possible.
These tubs are nice because even if you don’t need that huge space, it is very
easy to see exactly what you are looking for. BONUS, if you can close the lid
and sit on if for a bit if needed! It really is nice having something to sit on
if you need to change out your socks or shoes. I don’t know about you, but I
don’t love dirt sticking to my sweating butt or getting into places where you
don’t really love dirt to be. Short shorts don’t always protect those areas!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Extra socks and shoes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span> </div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">First aid kit. Nate took a hard fall in
his first 50k and had to wait 20 minutes in the aid station waiting to get
patched up. Bring your own stuff, save lots of time!<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Fuel of choice<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Extra batteries, head lamp, and a hand
held light<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I like to pack change of clothes and
flip flops for post run. Nate doesn’t usually mind riding home sweaty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we both like to get those shoes and socks
off and slip into some sandals. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Extreme temps:<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH3jkco7gH3vwEhQ5LfllLHz1C5-Ig8SBBw3eKqbj9iC39J7sMugvtbV2vyYZdEoHqIa1TxFwQw_7bJDtGBeh-Zfo4gBVwq7JR4WyBf00de0LCuHgU6wDW9zJwr0JXOmLiRRXPcUphgzA/s640/blogger-image-1371964540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH3jkco7gH3vwEhQ5LfllLHz1C5-Ig8SBBw3eKqbj9iC39J7sMugvtbV2vyYZdEoHqIa1TxFwQw_7bJDtGBeh-Zfo4gBVwq7JR4WyBf00de0LCuHgU6wDW9zJwr0JXOmLiRRXPcUphgzA/s400/blogger-image-1371964540.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>*</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Poncho, rain
gear, gloves<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>*</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Various fueling
recourse: fuel belt, hand held, and fuel vest. This isn’t always necessary.
But in really hot races, you can’t always be sure your vest won’t chafe; Even
if it usually doesn’t give you problems. Running 50 miles in Arizona’s 100
degree temps mean you need your options. Chaffing sucks! And sometimes you just
get sick of your hand held and want to switch it up. My motto is, if you MIGHT
want it, and then pack it! So there you have it! Never hurts to be prepared! </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAlzYZeYcD7SX71a0QxhyGxDee7VIQnfY1Z5EORhSStq0ZUuTQSTH0Lfm-Lf1sXi50j_L4oVpN_2W-EPJEWJzAQBDBUzr8riG0eK1PibmyuXD9ybMqk6Kn4SyI0LmtNjKr0HvO4rjRPk/s640/blogger-image-862921417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAlzYZeYcD7SX71a0QxhyGxDee7VIQnfY1Z5EORhSStq0ZUuTQSTH0Lfm-Lf1sXi50j_L4oVpN_2W-EPJEWJzAQBDBUzr8riG0eK1PibmyuXD9ybMqk6Kn4SyI0LmtNjKr0HvO4rjRPk/s200/blogger-image-862921417.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Does anyone else LOVE this Magic Stuff? It may just be a mental boost, but some times that is just what you need!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD9_57Jz0zoghWTUnYrP2v0nnaSK-kkluGiiwt7rY7TcR5yAOptYW78h9-o-q9tXYE22fL-KXdegRBPrHiYS-ASjhceM5BFfry0fbk3qdtt3QiEbovKcKa6ZmcktXoJMbnQG9wToT3lGE/s640/blogger-image-919912121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD9_57Jz0zoghWTUnYrP2v0nnaSK-kkluGiiwt7rY7TcR5yAOptYW78h9-o-q9tXYE22fL-KXdegRBPrHiYS-ASjhceM5BFfry0fbk3qdtt3QiEbovKcKa6ZmcktXoJMbnQG9wToT3lGE/s200/blogger-image-919912121.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Couple pair of shoes for longer races</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDRW0A5UlMBLn8YNj8_6K0NdycWRMk7pmfHB0YvMvbT_VYnxyDXJmThSKXvJVZeOJ3OPOqDVOijEdJ8XLA5kHP0of3tWX1BbLZZoMubjWetLhyphenhyphenAnxfnLHx1LI-pfv190nGEy4pLJzd_M8/s640/blogger-image--2068450565.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDRW0A5UlMBLn8YNj8_6K0NdycWRMk7pmfHB0YvMvbT_VYnxyDXJmThSKXvJVZeOJ3OPOqDVOijEdJ8XLA5kHP0of3tWX1BbLZZoMubjWetLhyphenhyphenAnxfnLHx1LI-pfv190nGEy4pLJzd_M8/s200/blogger-image--2068450565.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Draw string drop bags for the other locations</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-x2UWzEzSUFeRYm1v3dmd66zIV5Wro421Fw4tgG7j_tCdys53KYk8lnWDihYP9fSrrc5c2cWuuxmNg6RtIbn1ebTRIuffbtJ3Cr-mOe37-EeIoEys2Tt_iei6QDIxkOtZ4f_P8v22hM/s640/blogger-image-1547980682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-x2UWzEzSUFeRYm1v3dmd66zIV5Wro421Fw4tgG7j_tCdys53KYk8lnWDihYP9fSrrc5c2cWuuxmNg6RtIbn1ebTRIuffbtJ3Cr-mOe37-EeIoEys2Tt_iei6QDIxkOtZ4f_P8v22hM/s320/blogger-image-1547980682.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Portable cooler with wheels. Nice to have extra water just in case. We have seen Aid Stations run out before. Also nice to pour water on your head if you need to cool down, without worrying about wasting good drinking water. <br />
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</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-37120023878880949032014-08-22T16:00:00.000-07:002014-08-23T12:28:13.423-07:00July and August's Runnerbox<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I absolutly LOVE being an ambassador for RunnerBox. First, I love getting just about anything in the mail with my name on it (other than bills!). By now most of you have heard of subscription boxes. I know the BirchBox is a big one some of my friends who are into beauty supplies subsribe too. In case you are unfamiliar with subscription boxes, here is a little discription from the RunnerBox website to explain what it is ... "RunnerBox is a subscription based box full of products and discounts which have been hand-picked to enhance your active lifestyle. Runnerbox has everything from gels, chews, protein shakes/supplements, nutrition bars, energy boosters, healthy snacks, personal care, and other running accessories! Many products will be brand new to the market while others will be tried and true favorites. With so many new products claiming to be the next best thing – leave the trials and testing to us – we’ll search out the finest and send them right to your doorstep!"</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbimeNN3vslYoMsb-bCJiv6eM0U6yCPB1Hm9dVL1fk0jQRQSj0HZ-Q3s5IATitJlxyU51fEYzGrziX_S56fD7wQn_aWfzI7gSWp_RxdSbbk315RhxbJsGUSOnQIP5cPn-jtOmSUxWGp0/s640/blogger-image--2085117216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbimeNN3vslYoMsb-bCJiv6eM0U6yCPB1Hm9dVL1fk0jQRQSj0HZ-Q3s5IATitJlxyU51fEYzGrziX_S56fD7wQn_aWfzI7gSWp_RxdSbbk315RhxbJsGUSOnQIP5cPn-jtOmSUxWGp0/s200/blogger-image--2085117216.jpg" width="200"></a></div>
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I love that it allows me to try new things that I otherwise would've never tried before. I get to test it out and decide if I like it before I buy more. Everything that has been in my boxes so far is top notch product. Cool thing about being an Ambassador, is I get 10% off everything form their site, and I get to share my code with you. MRRUNRB go check it out & sign-up for a subsribtion so that you too can recieve a RunnerBox at your door. Here is the Link <a href="http://therunnerbox.com/runnerbox/">http://therunnerbox.com/runnerbox/</a> I promise to always give my honest opinion. I will tell about what I like most, and things that weren't so amazing. </div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">June/July Box</span></strong> <br>
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So much love for the items in this box. I already knew I liked Honey Stinger Waffles, but I had never tried the Lemon flavor before. YUM! I loved the Veggie-Go's Chewy Veggie & Fruit Strip. In fact I never got a photo because it was the first thing I ate before I had a chance to snap a pic! It was Whole 30 approved, 100% clean, so a perfect post run quick snack. Gotta get get those calories in ASAP after a run. I have a code 'runfast' for 15% those strips from <a href="http://nakededgesnacks.com/">Nakededgesnacks</a>. Not sure if I am supposed to share the extra discount codes, but whelp...there it is. <br>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiJEP8_kbZfU6abbBrR0l5cQ_JLJlOrZAlrwM9OH6HjBPIlT61mxw_0vHPUa4zibH1BkkIc0SsgcZschXYbs2xSSHqJeHKLQM3ncNBKPiE5ppTdxbHhfhbOL1QVeL-sGbvoLGfAASS1OU/s400/blogger-image--444434219.jpg" width="400"></div>
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Of all the products I tried, I was most excited about Generation UCAN. I have been wanting to try this for a long time. A friend from one of my RAGNAR teams introduced it to me but I never took the plunge yet. It provieds a steay, slow realease energy. This helps avoid spikes, crashes, or GI distress. It's an all natural complex-carbohydrate that breaks down slowly. It prevents the highs and lows in blood sugar, and enhances fat burning. For reals this stuff is legit! The PureFit Protein Bar was amazing. I am a huge protein bar fan. I know, I know, it's all about real and whole foods. But I am always on the go (well, when I am not injured) and sometimes teach back to back fitness classes, so I do depend on a good protein bar. And then of course I loved my sweat towel that came with my box. Perfect to bring to the spin classes that I teach.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd1UUAJ0ditH64tVvEVaWqWJSuZIZIZDnYaS-gGu4Lzp8g3nQYfD0gl3uPYFfeMKgMTbcMeDwPbq7DMUjJDheS5jcFDy4P6rRdSxsFFjhLmeU8qCUtaNVMaEEmURuXGuD7L52l3ru00rU/s640/blogger-image--2117862630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd1UUAJ0ditH64tVvEVaWqWJSuZIZIZDnYaS-gGu4Lzp8g3nQYfD0gl3uPYFfeMKgMTbcMeDwPbq7DMUjJDheS5jcFDy4P6rRdSxsFFjhLmeU8qCUtaNVMaEEmURuXGuD7L52l3ru00rU/s200/blogger-image--2117862630.jpg" width="150"><br>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">August/September RunnerBox</span></strong><br>
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Lots of cool stuff in this month's box too! We especially liked the ACCEL Gel because it was all natural and delievers rapid energy. It's got the 4:1 ratio of carb to protein whcih most gels I have used before does not have. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkkEPSBjYf-_ZZtjojXh73Xy3UqL35cfKMUO17ldcKe1KdnptZfTTNxmCD89hjJFqRmGjUNlphOLxHoNe4no5j9raVURwzZlFMjZU1zFEbZMtyDW9d-02Sog_K3iHVQ43Dn1SCyRtMmI/s640/blogger-image-664622714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkkEPSBjYf-_ZZtjojXh73Xy3UqL35cfKMUO17ldcKe1KdnptZfTTNxmCD89hjJFqRmGjUNlphOLxHoNe4no5j9raVURwzZlFMjZU1zFEbZMtyDW9d-02Sog_K3iHVQ43Dn1SCyRtMmI/s200/blogger-image-664622714.jpg" width="150"></a></div>
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We loved the Primal Sport Mud for sore muscles. Nate had to test this out for me after his race because of my injury. So it's not actually mud, but you apply it to the area you are sore, cover or wrap, and apply heat. It washes off easy with water or a wet wipe. Nate was still able to do speed work Monday after running a 40 mile race on Saturday night...so who knows, maybe this really did help?!<br>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ3ssZ0RYGQ7NBlVhVhEFu5N9INGDAqwEIG1jMLISM_Q40wfebYB0_rVitIHBtF81ftLfpbjI_0hRdfnLWy7XpuPZKIXBV40QJUMFfN7kMQ8w4iibdr2LrTE0Ww7tTGtg5f_3lDchGXyw/s320/blogger-image--1021111835.jpg" width="320"><br>
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So this was the real suprise in the box. My son Kade is THE pickest eater known to man. He actually spent a year in food therapy trying to help him get his weight up. He doesn't like to try new things and really likes a very limited amount of food. I about died when I saw him gobbeling down this bag of <a href="http://www.choopko.com/">Choopko Peanut Puffs</a>. I have already ordered from their website for more. Best part is it's made from non-GMO farm-grown corn and nuts. High protein snack for a picky eater? Sign me up for that. Beats his Cheetos any day of the week.<br>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLCzuCcFPR2KkegVt9IXSHh_Ujktt8sypLerh54mcsYNkyYaLQzTx20X4LthR-NtoBjv7T_aFrn5QjEiq1vW1dDkhb1mNwVhbcNOrWP_PdaWrSPol5ofw_KTDsWRJTP_8JZ3_bek_ZEg/s320/blogger-image--1927726713.jpg" width="320"><br>
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The box came with an issue of TrailRunner magazine. I gave it a good read, but won't be subscribing, even though it comes with a discount code upon ordering. It seemed like it was mostly adds and the articles weren't too captivating. I guess if you are new to the sport of trail running it would be good to see the gear they have to offer. But for us, it really didn't teach or show us anything new.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVOEsZTZJDnXYAZe5yfSwm_3wttIeZN1rAVDN-SUFkjN_pywNUPBbHVNEIfw4S0rcjpI7RknioyVTMwuH8jV5JcfwsyhIZ8l1iK48mbL73KQPN7b5JzegxuV-NEJ7KmfjQoRzsYECz3ig/s640/blogger-image--1444915185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVOEsZTZJDnXYAZe5yfSwm_3wttIeZN1rAVDN-SUFkjN_pywNUPBbHVNEIfw4S0rcjpI7RknioyVTMwuH8jV5JcfwsyhIZ8l1iK48mbL73KQPN7b5JzegxuV-NEJ7KmfjQoRzsYECz3ig/s200/blogger-image--1444915185.jpg" width="149"></a><br>
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What I really do like about the RunnerBox, is that it comes with a little card that has a blurb on each item in the box. Most every single item gives out a code for either a percentage off or free shipping, and lots of times for both. Saving money is my jam. Sampeling cool stuff is also my jam. If it is yours too, don't froget to subsribe and use MRRUNRB for 10% all things RunnerBox.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWvkbDqNYYd6HWhjTT745aTYNUQSIZw1ToeJ3MzArYzOhw-6WbbRPOl2voi3BJySoLsxetZAfZO5_L2IPLsW-HGf35fxlKcHTFNufB6YfDHpZIzcLPQgGyUwYWZ0GUy4vhEj8oKMY8QA/s640/blogger-image--813635576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWvkbDqNYYd6HWhjTT745aTYNUQSIZw1ToeJ3MzArYzOhw-6WbbRPOl2voi3BJySoLsxetZAfZO5_L2IPLsW-HGf35fxlKcHTFNufB6YfDHpZIzcLPQgGyUwYWZ0GUy4vhEj8oKMY8QA/s200/blogger-image--813635576.jpg" width="150"></a><br>
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<br>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-91771657195564030682014-08-20T13:10:00.000-07:002014-08-20T13:10:04.897-07:00Race CalendarComing Soon!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-72734623247366367122014-08-20T11:13:00.000-07:002014-08-20T12:58:36.450-07:00Paleo Sweet Potato Waffles<div style="clear: both;">
The easiest pezziest recipe ever! It's a sweet potato take on waffles or hash brows. This recipe is Whole 30 approved! Sweet potatoes are a killer source of carbohydrate. Read this great article if you want more info on why sweet potatoes are such a fabulous fuel source <a href="http://m.runnersworld.com/nutrition-for-runners/how-sweet-potatoes-can-help-your-running?page=single">How sweet potatoes can help your running</a> by Runner's World.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-YD3EVtwcpERy4Kx_wX_9Q9Xl9owWAHWi0tfPCE5yHccmMqW1UuNd5iAGSWrxBl73QpasPLALUYo7Im-6RaJPE5TdOERnlEnbOCgoy-a-ATeeLEdPlLRLNA68lBdT1cb3HiJP8Ivokk/s640/blogger-image--2062793936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-YD3EVtwcpERy4Kx_wX_9Q9Xl9owWAHWi0tfPCE5yHccmMqW1UuNd5iAGSWrxBl73QpasPLALUYo7Im-6RaJPE5TdOERnlEnbOCgoy-a-ATeeLEdPlLRLNA68lBdT1cb3HiJP8Ivokk/s320/blogger-image--2062793936.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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**Fair Warning: I don't usually measure when I cook. I'm a firm believer of dash here and a spoonful there. If you notice it needs a little more oil, just had it! This is for a more savory version </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTqyqMackp5_NsRe8t80fhb1h6A2pBZpNU1R9DzDMjDA7de53eYMl9KUBsCp5I-JW56iiPWoAbA7h-QSLNukwpHNze7IH-cT5tMXqUgIUMPprjGl0_vMASRCURyDAqiw1NK-nWYfe0SE/s640/blogger-image--2120922270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTqyqMackp5_NsRe8t80fhb1h6A2pBZpNU1R9DzDMjDA7de53eYMl9KUBsCp5I-JW56iiPWoAbA7h-QSLNukwpHNze7IH-cT5tMXqUgIUMPprjGl0_vMASRCURyDAqiw1NK-nWYfe0SE/s400/blogger-image--2120922270.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love my helping hands!</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 1:</span></b> Wash & then grate one large sweet potato into a bowl. You can use any type of grater. I have this nifty contraption that grates into all different sizes </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEXSHuy7LzZjzLMqutueXR5Y_m7BZOIdTpbFi73iwq1cDCTY-D8oYOusxSD3nPEotFrpUwAuJpFVzO6iUuan6ADkMTwZjta0hxFkWD7HEvCsNQsd-w3wul5ZgGcIGpqOWx9rHmekf_4x8/s640/blogger-image--77865081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEXSHuy7LzZjzLMqutueXR5Y_m7BZOIdTpbFi73iwq1cDCTY-D8oYOusxSD3nPEotFrpUwAuJpFVzO6iUuan6ADkMTwZjta0hxFkWD7HEvCsNQsd-w3wul5ZgGcIGpqOWx9rHmekf_4x8/s200/blogger-image--77865081.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 2:</b></span> Add: </div>
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-<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">2 whole eggs</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">-1 Tablespoon of coconut oil (ghee will work too) </span></div>
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-1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (basically a couple shakes of my cinnamon shaker!)</div>
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-1/2 teaspoon or a few shakes of Salt, pepper, and garlic powder (optional), nutmeg (optional) </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 3:</b></span> Spray olive oil onto a heated waffle iron. I like mine heated to medium/high. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 4:</b></span> Give it a good mix in a bowl. Be sure it's evenly coated! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvziF5L7Zqw58UrivoTB-gdgZ9zBT7m9dodeHlsr94xoR9GmkFJjTAcXw12PwoC8zBxymCF6uzXf-vn3NX7HQAtjBq-RrqUaN_Fs99cJn2R5eT-z-GYdm9_ndniJxQk0kl7iL22pmoLw/s640/blogger-image--373668497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvziF5L7Zqw58UrivoTB-gdgZ9zBT7m9dodeHlsr94xoR9GmkFJjTAcXw12PwoC8zBxymCF6uzXf-vn3NX7HQAtjBq-RrqUaN_Fs99cJn2R5eT-z-GYdm9_ndniJxQk0kl7iL22pmoLw/s200/blogger-image--373668497.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 5:</b></span> scoop about a cup (just cover the iron) of the mixture, close the lid, & cook till it's crispy & brown. Usually takes 6-8 minutes! </div>
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**Topping ideas: My absolute fav is Almond Butter on top. Or you can try unsweetened applesauce. If you don't mind the extra sugar (syrup is not Whole 30 approved) then a little maple syrup is always delicious on top! </div>
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I like to balance my meals with a healthy carb/protein/and fat. So a great side to your sweet potato is <a href="http://www.applegate.com/products/organic-chicken-apple-sausage">Applegate Chicken Apple Sausage</a> fried in some Ghee, then scramble it up with some eggs. Top it off with wholly salsa & wholly guacamole. </div>
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Eat up! Let me know if you like it!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-48187607337440157252014-08-18T21:59:00.000-07:002014-08-20T11:19:09.221-07:00Another crazy runner<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s crazy how perspective can change just over a few
weeks…. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is a very hard thing for people to understand why I love
to run. Why I sacrifice sleep to maintain at least 40 miles of running each
week, on top of being a mom and teaching fitness classes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t really try to explain myself because
it really is hard to explain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
always been grateful that my husband just gets it. I know that we are seen as
being ‘crazy’ or ‘stupid’ or ‘irrational’ by some people. We just have to not
let that negativity in, and hang on tight to the people that give us positive
support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t think I am better than
anyone else because I love to run. I also don’t believe that everyone needs to
run to be happy. But I do know that it works for me and my family, and that my
husband and I both love it. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvWV1Vlme0YEA-Od0ib-2wr8CorRdYs533Wo3DQ0BYHJdPs_gmm1fTXyDimOSuYDUWiy-qwYEGxDJ9hOA6dhx1Wf3s0GC703gEqZCaQ2zjSKUExYylOm-kdO8iqZnMXzAvHnMVLAhTAE8/s640/blogger-image--76572255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvWV1Vlme0YEA-Od0ib-2wr8CorRdYs533Wo3DQ0BYHJdPs_gmm1fTXyDimOSuYDUWiy-qwYEGxDJ9hOA6dhx1Wf3s0GC703gEqZCaQ2zjSKUExYylOm-kdO8iqZnMXzAvHnMVLAhTAE8/s320/blogger-image--76572255.jpg" width="307" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Oddly enough, running has strengthened my relationship with
my husband in more ways than just the bonding during runs together. We have had
to learn to make sacrifices within our own training plans to ensure the other
gets the time they need. It has strengthened our communication skills. I used
to get upset that my husband got longer time for his runs then I did. I seemed
to be strapped to the running stroller, or the treadmill. But I was playing a
martyr role. Once I sat down, and calmly communicated my needs/wishes to him,
then we were able to make some changes. Many things he was unaware that I even
felt. Ladies, men truly can NOT read our minds (I am STILL learning this).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, we sit down at the beginning of every
week and work out a schedule that is as fair as possible. We both have had
periods where we wish we could’ve had more training time, but we knew the other
person had a big goal on the horizon so we sacrificed for a few months. It got
to the point where it didn’t feel like a sacrifice because I was so happy to
helping him reach his dreams. Open and consistent communication is KEY for me so
that I don’t become jealous or <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>resentful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I gave up a lot of my training time last
summer in order for Nate to be ready for his first 100 mile trail run. It ended
up being one of the most memorable experiences for us as a family. Nate gave
the majority of the spring to me when I was working on PRing my marathon time
and training to get under a 3:35. After years of us both trying to hit killer
training weeks, raise our young boys, and balance work/school responsibilities;
I feel we are finally working out the kinks in communication to find that
balance.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp70g2qljuTZ__kKA4dMtQbU_2F-v6hlkx-w5J575ECBqhCIDCH3B0lg-YihnoZSKJOdgoQiQmVOjbKVF_tM7Kdj_ib8VsXjVfjZBidMANeZPx9EmUmLs9HDoj9hKdmAEdCdPrU24gs-o/s640/blogger-image-1322868662.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp70g2qljuTZ__kKA4dMtQbU_2F-v6hlkx-w5J575ECBqhCIDCH3B0lg-YihnoZSKJOdgoQiQmVOjbKVF_tM7Kdj_ib8VsXjVfjZBidMANeZPx9EmUmLs9HDoj9hKdmAEdCdPrU24gs-o/s320/blogger-image-1322868662.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nate at the start of Aravaipa's Hypnosis 60K</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">…back to how my perspective has changed. Nate and I were
both signed up to race a 60K last night. It was 40 miles, of crazy terrain,
pitch dark, in freaking hot Arizona weather. I did not even consider all of that
to be ‘crazy’ when we signed up together. It seemed like a perfectly sound, and
acceptable thing to do on a Saturday night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Even while knowing we would be racing until about 3am. Yesterday morning
we had a Birthday Party for my oldest son, Kade, who just turned 5. Nate was up
early getting things ready, feeding & dressing the kids. He did the
majority of the work because I could barely take care of my drugged up, gimpy
self. We were in the sun from 10:30am till about 1:30pm chasing kids, setting
up decorations, shade tents, and lugging coolers full of cold drinks. My
sunburned husband came home, unloaded all the party stuff, and let me lay down
to ice my foot because I really overdid it (while in my mind, I hardly did
anything). He tended to the kids’ needs, and started packing all the necessities
to be ready for an Ultra Marathon. Now it takes a butt load of prep for Ultras.
You never know what you are going to want or need. You also have to be prepared
for all types of weather. We have learned the hard way many times. As Nate was
loading up his gear, I had some pressing thoughts on my mind that really
bothered me. I thought he was crazy. He was going to be running all night, to
just come home and hope for a few precious hours of sleep before having to be
at work Sunday afternoon! I wondered why he was doing this. I even suggested he
drop down to the 20 miles instead of the 40. He would be going out there alone.
No friends or family. What? Why couldn’t I understand? I tried to tell him he
had nothing to prove! Duh!!! Of course he has nothing to prove! Is this why
other people think we race, because we are trying to “prove something”. I am
supposed to be the one that “gets it”! I haven’t been running for 3 weeks since
the injury. Am I already that withdrawn from what running long distance does
for you that I didn’t understand why he would want to do this? I truly hope that
I can get to the point again where I WANT to run 40 miles, all night, with no
sleep, with no crowd cheering, and with only maybe 30 other runners. I want
that to sound fun instead of “crazy”. I finally understood the pull that trail
running is. I was a road runner for 10 years. I liked the hype, the big expos,
& crowds. I never EVER wondered why someone would want to go longer than
26.2. It was all about running pace, getting PR’s, and my split mile times. The
past few years I learned to really understand and LOVE trail running. I can’t
even compare the two different venues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
still really do enjoy road running. And hope that once I am healed that I will
continue to do both. But what I really hope for the most is that I come to
understand, again, why ultra marathons really are not crazy.</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-75719962552845151382014-08-06T16:29:00.001-07:002014-08-07T19:55:53.514-07:00Game Changer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was very pleased where the direction my running was heading. I had some exciting new goals for the second half of my race season. We had been selected for our 8th Saint George marathon. And I decided to slow down my pace and increase my distance. I signed up for lots of Aravaipa Trails runs and some other local races. All of these races where going to help prepare me to run the furthest distance I have ever set out to run before. I had finally gotten the nerve to sign up for Javelina Jundred 100k (62 miles)! I spent the last few months hitting the trails. I truly loved every minute out there. Such a challenge. I was happy to not have to stress as much about pace or heart rate. I truly felt free! On July 20th I was just over 10 miles into my run with my friend Kim. We were on a non technical section in the San Tan Mountains. Out of nowhere I just rolled my ankle. I knew instantly it was bad and heard a horrible pop. I wasn't able to bear any weight on my ankle. That part really scared me because this wasn't my first rodeo. I have a pretty high pain tolerance and usually can "walk it off". It was most likely going to take us hours for me to hobble out of there. We were literally saved my this sweet Cowboy and his horse named Thunder. He came across us and graciously offered to allow me to ride his horse 3 miles to the nearest parking lot so Nate could pick us up. While on the horse I didn't know if I should laugh or cry! It was right out of the movies. I was the damsel in distress laying on the side of the trail, and my trusty cowboy came and swept me off my feet. Well, maybe not so fancy. I was stinky sweaty in spandex, not a lovely dress. First, I am so so thankful I was with a good friend that morning who stayed with me. And second, I will forever be grateful to people who go out of their way to help others. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEincyTUjdfggDxyfalUxEZSLyKkVVpf3B3_LR_zBZYD5TGZ_kzBFFgbOQqR2sB4TW2QhphQal-0NR2_1oqlb00AapTQgFPa9FBO35ppaU5itz4zCQDuGbSYP2FpEVaZmUjeyCI7nAZMS4s/s640/blogger-image-664894040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEincyTUjdfggDxyfalUxEZSLyKkVVpf3B3_LR_zBZYD5TGZ_kzBFFgbOQqR2sB4TW2QhphQal-0NR2_1oqlb00AapTQgFPa9FBO35ppaU5itz4zCQDuGbSYP2FpEVaZmUjeyCI7nAZMS4s/s200/blogger-image-664894040.jpg" width="200" /></a>I am usually to stubborn to go to the doctor with an injury. However, I knew in my gut that I had to go with this one. I also wanted to make a smart decision because I had a race coming up in 6 days, and I was scheduled to teach a spin class the next morning. X-rays didn't show any new breaks, so next was to just wait for the MRI results to come in. I iced that ankle like there was know tomorrow. My goal was to get the swelling down, stay of it as much as possible, and then grit through the race Saturday night. At this run last year I placed 3rd overall female. I felt I was in better condition this year, and was more comfortable with trails this year. I really wanted to race to see what I could do. I got the phone call from my Doctor Friday, late afternoon, that was the total game changer. ATFL (anterior talofibular ligament) was nonexistent in the scan. The CFL (calcaneal fibular ligament) was hanging on by a thread. Nonexistent meant 100% torn. I hung up the phone and literally couldn't breathe. I am unsure how long I cried for. I had been whining all week about the idea of missing one race, and now this news meant much more than one race. It meant I couldn't run and play with my children, it meant I couldn't continue to work in a job I love, in meant I couldn't get that release that I get each day when I train. It meant I couldn't run side by side with my husband or dad in our upcoming events. I truly was completely devastated.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQYng7d7w_o5LK7fS1RE5_KENvNkhpnbZPVEevOsP3ehigF4R1-TQG8x2U7l6HjI2PHOAXRWI1pXJrd-P511Oiq0cvSnLgpcR6JQH1uP0CXdBsvMIHInolgoG4IzQw7jVXBCixT7iWfv0/s640/blogger-image-29718719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQYng7d7w_o5LK7fS1RE5_KENvNkhpnbZPVEevOsP3ehigF4R1-TQG8x2U7l6HjI2PHOAXRWI1pXJrd-P511Oiq0cvSnLgpcR6JQH1uP0CXdBsvMIHInolgoG4IzQw7jVXBCixT7iWfv0/s320/blogger-image-29718719.jpg" width="240" /></a>The week leading up to surgery was a lot of chaos and confusion. I actually am not going to blog the details of that because it still puts me in a bad mood thinking of it. The surgery had been scheduled, canceled, and re-scheduled multiple times and on various dates. However, the most important thing is the surgery went well. The Doctor was confident with the work. And we were fortunate to have it on a Friday so that Nate could be home all weekend. All the nurses and doctors were fun and helped lighten the mood. We were joking with them and having a good time prepping for surgery. They seem to treat us better when they find out that Nate is also a Nurse at their sister Hospital. It is hard to know exactly what you are getting into until the Dr. opens you up to see the true condition of the ligaments. Unfortunately, my ankle was in worse condition than he originally thought. The name of the surgery the Dr. preformed is Brostrom ankle surgery. This is a fairly common surgery for athletes. He had to drill holes into my fibula to attach an anchor. The anchor is to told in place the newly repaired ligaments. Dr. Marshall described to Nate that my ATFL was completely mangled and frayed. He believes that this ligament has been damaged for years without ever healing correctly. He is confident in saying that all the tendinitis and instability I have had with that foot has been because of these ligaments never being repaired correctly. So after years of abouse, it seems my ankle just couldn't take it anymore.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxsw-JBB-ZkPaa2-5qdXw9OcYltnve036lVmpwi59ri6bD9D-Z8hA1GaQF-uxQeHGOK1CmJxyH_LExqx7kSS9TPF4bkcVQ2Wz5T99R50bsQs-ReBLPkhi-_HWPAaxMYbWjsAcjAC0IfSg/s640/blogger-image-1680549816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxsw-JBB-ZkPaa2-5qdXw9OcYltnve036lVmpwi59ri6bD9D-Z8hA1GaQF-uxQeHGOK1CmJxyH_LExqx7kSS9TPF4bkcVQ2Wz5T99R50bsQs-ReBLPkhi-_HWPAaxMYbWjsAcjAC0IfSg/s320/blogger-image-1680549816.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLBkYEhiP83cuLvbkiUtmhC1XWSaL0IjfU5T2ZfkhRHvLaqG84Q4r_hZpWWrY2j2EZYg9fhu4P9hhtK8J7E7U-wfrEYqigPmMWoZKm5qpTDOGssmgYUreMp-19XMZyY7Uo3AhYkZkeEvw/s640/blogger-image-255964784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLBkYEhiP83cuLvbkiUtmhC1XWSaL0IjfU5T2ZfkhRHvLaqG84Q4r_hZpWWrY2j2EZYg9fhu4P9hhtK8J7E7U-wfrEYqigPmMWoZKm5qpTDOGssmgYUreMp-19XMZyY7Uo3AhYkZkeEvw/s320/blogger-image-255964784.jpg" width="320" /></a>Why my perspective has been changed from complete devastation, to gratitude and appreciation? First and foremost, my family has been looked after better than I would've EVER hoped for. I was so anxious on how it would be possible for me to take 10 days in bed, and another 3 weeks no weight bearing on my foot. To then be transferred to a boot for 12-14 weeks. What?! I have very active, young boys...I can't be on crutches?! But my family, friends, and church members have gone above and beyond to make sure we are doing okay. My room is full of balloons, & flowers from my awesome running group and mom. My kids have rides to preschool, endless play dates. We have had people bring in dinners, helping with my grocery shopping, and even with chores around the house! These things all seriously have fixed my broken heart. We have been so blessed in so many ways. Another thing I have to mention is that I am actually glad to finally know why this foot has been so troublesome. It has set me back one too many times. It basically was just dangling there. Yes, the timing was sad. But to be honest, when is it ever good timing? Yes, surgery is the last thing you want to hear. But I am glad to move forward and heal. I am going to follow doctors orders completely. I know I will get anxious and want to push it faster/sooner. But there is no sense in going through this in vein. I want to do what it takes to heal properly. I am currently on day 5 & trying to count my blessings daily on this road to recovery. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-69574702717809591702014-05-19T12:41:00.000-07:002014-05-19T15:46:57.665-07:00Sharing Is Caring!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Congrats</span></strong> to <span style="color: magenta;">MISSY TAYLOR</span> for winning a sample of some EnergyBits! Hope you love them as much as I do! </div>
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Today I am excited to share one of my favorite training run workouts. I love this because it can work for EVERY type of runner, from beginner to advanced. Notice I am not specifying what pace you should be running at. It will be different for each person! You want to go off perceived effort. This workout takes about 70 min. but the times can be easily adjusted to your fitness level!<br />
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<strong><u>12 min. Easy</u></strong> (Take your warm-up nice and slow. You should be able to comfortably hold a conversation at this pace. Zone 1/2 heart rate)<br />
<strong><u>12 min. Steady</u></strong> (Zone 2. Pick up the pace just a bit)<br />
<strong><u>12 min. Moderately-Hard</u></strong> (Zone 3. You are no longer comfortable. This should feel more like work. But you are NOT completely dying at this pace.)<br />
<strong><u>2 X 5 min. Threshold</u> *1 min easy between sets* </strong>(Zone 4. If you can talk while running this part, then you aren't going hard enough. BUT, remember ... you need to maintain this pace for the 5 min. so it's not a full out sprint)<br />
<strong><u>12 min. Steady</u> </strong>(Zone 3/2)<br />
<strong><u>12 min. Cool down</u> </strong>(Zone 2/1)<br />
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These types of workouts help the time go by much faster because you are breaking it up into segments of time. It can be done outside or on the treadmill. This also helps to build speed safely. If you were to go out and run for 70 minutes in a Zone 4, your body will definitely feel it the next day. But, if you progress to some speed and still run an easy warm up and cool down, then you won't feel as beat up the next day. This way you can still get a workout in the following day without having to takes lots of days off in between runs. Thanks to Ryan Knapp for letting me share this workout!<br />
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And if you have a bad memory like I do, then you write a cheat sheet on your hand! Have fun and give it a try! Message me with any questions.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-9933744400892318132014-05-15T16:21:00.000-07:002014-05-15T16:21:24.365-07:00EnergyBits Giveaway!Excited to be able to share these magical little EnergyBits with my followers. Today is my Birthday. I am 31. Some days I act like 21. Some days my body feels like it's 41! But I am ALWAYS looking for ways to feel better, and to have the energy I need to get through my runs. And more importantly, get through the day with my little boys! First, I make no money from this company by talking about their product. I will never share something on my blog that I don't absolutely love myself. This is <u>MY</u> short list of why I am going to continue to include EnergyBits to power my workouts:<br />
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1. They are easy to take. No cooking, or mixing, just pop them in mouth & swallow with water.<br />
2. It's not a supplement. They are bits of food (green algae).<br />
3. Only 1 ingredient. Packed with protein, a butt load of B-Vitamins, & a butt load ofAmino Acids. <br />
4. I didn't feel the "bonk" that is normally associated with a longer, harder run.<br />
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If you would like to try a free sample of EnergyBits for yourself all you have to do is Follow my blog (right corner) and leave a comment telling me you did so! If you would like a second entry, follow my Michrun4 page on Facebook and comment under the giveaway! Good Luck! Last day to enter is Sunday night at midnight (Sunday, May 18th) Winner will be announced Monday morning. I will announce on Blog and Facebook, then I will get your mailing information!<br />
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Some EnergyBits Facts:<br />
*64% protein, 40 Vitamins, antioxidants, Omega 3, & nitric oxide<br />
*They are just 100% Pure spirulina algae. Bits of green food that is grown hydroponically, harvested and air dried like other crops.<br />
*Higher concentration of Antioxidants than Goji Berries, or blueberries. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-50747753723379251872014-04-17T13:32:00.001-07:002014-04-17T13:32:26.675-07:00The dirty little word...DIET! <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> I am generally a very health consciences eater. With that being said, I don't shy away from a good dessert or treat. I noticed the past few months digging into my desserts much more frequently. I started to notice that it was brought on by emotional eating, and I wasn't even savoring these foods. I was waking up feeling like crap, My workouts were suffering. I really needed to find a way to get back on track. Not for the sake of a silly number on the scale, but so I could FEEL better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> The second I started thinking about cleaning up my eating, it sent me into panic mode. I headed straight for Costco to get 3 giant bags of Chicago popcorn (YUMMMMM!) It seems just the thought of "dieting" makes me want to eat whatever I want so I won't have to be restricted. I mean I deserve that junk food right?! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> Here is what is currently working for me. In fact, I am LOVING it. My Fitness Pal app. I have used it before. Most of you probably have. I finally updated the app and decided to give it another try. The new updates are amazing. I can scan my foods' barcodes and it instantly pulls up ingredients. I put my frequent foods in the recipe portion so I can slot it in quickly. These are reasons why it is working so well for me: </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I am not stressing over exact measurements. If a food isn't in the data bank, I just pick something similar.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I don't weigh everything. Yes, that would be more accurate. But let's be honest. I would last 2 days doing this.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">It's on my phone so it is super convenient to plug in the food I eat.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I minimize my grazing when I am not hungry because I am too lazy to enter in all the food. So it is easier to not eat that bite of graham cracker from my kids then to have to enter it to my daily log.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">It allows you to put in your workouts in, and gives you more calories back based on how many burned during that workout. I did find that it overestimates calorie burn. If you want to be super accurate, a heart rate monitor is best. But again, for me I am not using this to loose weight. It's more so I can be more conscious of what I am putting in my mouth. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I still eat my treats. Yesterday, we hunted down the Waffle truck for their 600calories of waffle heaven. I was over my daily calories. I didn't care one bit because I savored it. It was worth every bite. And better yet, it wasn't like I ate 600 calories of nasty food around the house because I was bored and didn't realize what I was even eating. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Love this feature for the quick scan</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6dVE9179JwAhPfaJLknSwT0HUoKifHrRp1PtEuUUrph-sgEUoBfvP1rINvbDRYHyH2-sv3HUanprEK_PpkACKPQk1YbBe11g7nh9FWNkwS6vXgXXNz4t_Zd9klj9BExRD7-lNKceaco/s640/blogger-image--216838841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6dVE9179JwAhPfaJLknSwT0HUoKifHrRp1PtEuUUrph-sgEUoBfvP1rINvbDRYHyH2-sv3HUanprEK_PpkACKPQk1YbBe11g7nh9FWNkwS6vXgXXNz4t_Zd9klj9BExRD7-lNKceaco/s200/blogger-image--216838841.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Even though I am not the most accurate, its nice to see my daily log. And there is a feature to check out the Macro nutrient breakdown (% of carbohydrates, % protein, % fat)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExBK9IZvy3WbslBZnLQ27iG0o4zz84esIkEOi2r7nRSpp6ZweDCu2u3mHkXPWwsUPCm1_xpekpgmuGffGfM1grmlzTJxHRJpJlPXjFyUA2nA9KV8Jv-bjWmwDnSG74OK5EsJ7ctY6sOI/s640/blogger-image-2101988514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExBK9IZvy3WbslBZnLQ27iG0o4zz84esIkEOi2r7nRSpp6ZweDCu2u3mHkXPWwsUPCm1_xpekpgmuGffGfM1grmlzTJxHRJpJlPXjFyUA2nA9KV8Jv-bjWmwDnSG74OK5EsJ7ctY6sOI/s200/blogger-image-2101988514.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I have stuck with it 5 days in a row. I already feel better about being more aware of what I am eating. I know it will help decrease recovery time. Food is fuel!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03762535404737324393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3185236311448564347.post-49387395277121835862014-04-16T15:16:00.005-07:002014-04-16T22:02:31.867-07:00This is me!<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I keep thinking once I come up with something "cool" enough I will start telling people I started a blog. Well, nothing mind blowing has happened these past few weeks so lets just get started anyways! I love to run 4 so many different reasons. One of them is to connect with other runners. I love to get new ideas, and share things with others. Starting a blog would be a great way for me to do that. Here is a lil intro about myself:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Michelle Sager</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Mom of two darling boys (3 & 4 years old)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">30</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Played soccer my whole life. Played all 4 years in college for a Division 1 program (2001-2005)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Thought I would lose my mind when I graduated college if I didn't find a competitive outlet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Started running marathons in 2005. Haven't stopped since</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Married a runner. He is my rock</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">We love to train together and involve our kids in workouts</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I teach group fitness classes at LA Fitness & Desert Fitness. Love it. Lots</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I love living an active lifestyle</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Please feel free to comment or email me anytime with questions or if you wish to connect!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFqTtdv_z4lIu5uA_p0sDTElMcLeWw_CY9nHCT7EvGn_kFW5P6p1EnMz7Xts4w_dFLm8EIhTay8dQPf7kCscrCyl74Se2qkNel7NwvCVh6XS6Lu7uc_OJX7QoeN-Bxk3arZvHPcnAZ5og/s1600/michtry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFqTtdv_z4lIu5uA_p0sDTElMcLeWw_CY9nHCT7EvGn_kFW5P6p1EnMz7Xts4w_dFLm8EIhTay8dQPf7kCscrCyl74Se2qkNel7NwvCVh6XS6Lu7uc_OJX7QoeN-Bxk3arZvHPcnAZ5og/s1600/michtry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFqTtdv_z4lIu5uA_p0sDTElMcLeWw_CY9nHCT7EvGn_kFW5P6p1EnMz7Xts4w_dFLm8EIhTay8dQPf7kCscrCyl74Se2qkNel7NwvCVh6XS6Lu7uc_OJX7QoeN-Bxk3arZvHPcnAZ5og/s1600/michtry.jpg" height="400" width="347" /><br />
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