On My Way

A Whole New Goal

2012-01-29T23:45:00.002-05:00

It's been a long time since i've blogged and posted some of goals this year. In January I ran the most incredible race with my sister, the 2012 Disney Marathon Relay. It was the most exciting thing I've ran and I got to do it with my sister. Training is tough because of my crazy hours. I work nights and it's a very physically demanding job. Getting a few hours in the morning and than and hour or so before work has been incredibly hard to adjust. My diet hasn't cooperated with me. Do I eat at night like I do during the day? My day is peoples nights. I can't seem to take the any weight off, which would make a world of a differene. Not to sure what I can do, but I need to focus ahead of what I've always wanted to do since I've been in my 20's... Run a marathon, and I've never been more focused. Running the Disney with my sister inspired me, if that won't be my first one the Hartford just might. Gearing up for another 1/2 a marathon in March. Training has been rough, but I've been training. Well Until next time hopefully will be posting some new pictures of Disney and my new up coming races this year. Happy Running!

2010-10-24T19:00:00.002-04:00

Trumbull Church of Christ

2 Drew Circle

Trumbull, CT

203-261-5201

We are Hosting

Talent Show

November 13th 2010

Starting 6:30 p.m.

We will be hosting a winter coat and winter clothing drive

For the Act Spooner House and Residents Living in the Area

Please bring items with you

Entrance is Free

Come have fun and Enjoy the show!

If you have any questions please feel free to call the number above for more information.

www.churchofchrist-trumbull.org

New Talent Show and New Goals

2010-02-01T09:54:00.005-05:00

Wow it's been forever since I've blogged, but I've been working on some new music. Now, I can post my song but I'm trying to figure out how too.

Well I set myself some big goals this year. I want to run the Fairfield 1/2 marathon in June again as well as the Hartford full Marathon which I'm hoping Marathon Chris gets to joins me. I'm bit nervous, but excited. I plan to train a bit differnent but since my surgery and through all my tough starts there is something I've learned. Never beat yourself up if it didn't work out the first time, pick up yourself on your feet again and try it again and never ever give up. So looking forward to keeping everyone posted and updated. Happy Running!

A New Start

2009-11-20T17:20:00.002-05:00

Well it's been awhile since I've blogged, I know on my last post I wanted to start up training again, but I a lot of things were going on and stress and not feeling well played a big part.

I decided to set myself a goal again, two things, run the Fairfield 1/2 Marathon again and also run a full marathon next year in October. (ING Hartford, CT marathon) So those are my goals. This week got to a great start, the weather for November has been beautiful, it was in the 60's and breezy. We have been very spoiled this fall, I just hope we don't have a winter like we had last year. The cold didn't bother me as much as the nice and snow, but lets see how it works out.

I'm excited to let everyone know my home based business is starting to kick off, slowly but it starting, looks like this month is going to be a good one.

I'm slowly feeling better physically and mentally so I can focus more on what I really enjoy.

My music on the other hand hasn't gotten as far as I'd like. I have recorded a few songs, and singing is something I absolutely love, but we will see what the future holds.

I hope everyone enjoys their Thanksgiving. I hope everyone enjoys spending time with the family and enjoy a wonderful meal as well.

Need to Hit the Road

2009-09-30T18:29:00.002-04:00

Lately, I've been bummed out not being able to train like I want to. My business has picked up and my time is kind of limited. I've been feeling in a down mood a bit, but on a good note alot of things are coming up. My Talent Show for my church is on the October 17th. We are hosting another food drive this year. We are collecting non perishable food items for an entrace fee and we are giving it to our local families in need. I can't wait, I haveing a feeling it's going to be big hit. I have practice the Friday evening and I'm really looking forward to it. Also the ING Hartford Marathon is coming up and I offered to volunteer for Team in Training. I can't wait, it will be fun to cheer on a wonderful group that has been amazing supportive of so many close friends. Now just to figure out how to place my song on my page so everyone can listen LOL... yes it's pretty much done, but not sure how to put it on so everyone can listen. Once I figure it out in the next day or so I'll let you know.

Well happy training everyone, I could really use a nice run or bike ride.

Another Show

2009-09-19T11:36:00.002-04:00

Well, we booked a date for our next Talent Show at my church on October 17th. This years event is looking great, alot more adults will be participating. We are doing a food drive, so all who come to see the show, we will be collecting non perishable food items no money. Figured it's a great time of year for it since it's so close to Holidays. I'm getting more and more excited and looking forward to seeing what our church and friends show off their talent.

Also on October 10th, I will be the ING Hartford Marathon....

I will be volunteering for Team in Training with LLS.

In Honor of Roger Morris and Rosemary Rainey..... this one will be for you both.

Incredible Weather & New Beginnings

2009-09-10T22:43:00.003-04:00

Well, we have been having some amazing weather. It's right now 10 pm in the evening and in the 50's... mid 60's close to 70 by mid day. Perfect weather for a runner. Well, my friend Irene is an amazing woman, she been great to be with. She has been a very positive influence on me with working and sticking to it and also starting our new line of business with a wellness company. Now that my boys are in school, I can focus on what I need to. Using these products has given me the energy I need to do my workouts with and now, my friend is now joining me.
After all the problems I've had with supplements and gels I've had some issues with taking, these are the first ones I know that are gluten and sulfate free... soooo happy.

So, today I decided that I will volunteer by helping out at the Hartford Marathon , 1/2 marathon and 5K on October 10th for Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Something I would love to do for amazing group. There are 101 participants this race so exciting to see such a large group. It'll be a lot of fun and something I'm really looking forward too. I'll try to post as many pictures as I can on that day so I can post them.

Happy running folks!!

Training and Music

2009-09-02T20:20:00.009-04:00

Well, it's been a busy few months and I haven't blogged in awhile. A lot of things have been going on, I had my sons 8th birthday party

I also visited my father in Vermont

Boy I miss him. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease and it has really progressed in the last year. I'm glad I went to visit him, I had a very hard time to leaving him. I wish I could have stayed to help. Next time I won't wait so long to visit him, I'm hoping my next visit will be soon.

My boys fell in love with his dog Stich as well. He was so cute.

My boys and I also were hitting the pool when it finally warmed up, get this only for 3 weeks, now it's way to cold to swim (the pool is not heated) now they will be closing the pool next week already. We didn't have much of a summer here and his year my boys were not afraid to dunk their heads under the water and hold their breath.. I'm so glad they got over that hump.

I'm still trying to figure out how to put my song so everyone can here the a rough copy of my song I wrote. I was able to play the guitar on it as well. I had forgotten how much work and how much I enjoy Recording. I really enjoy it more and more. Hopefully I can place it on a post it soon.

I also started my at home business for a great wellness company. Come to find out they have a ton of stuff I can have.. get this Gluten Free Products.. Yahoo.. great to know I can use their products. Their cleaning products are incredible, the best I've used, the laundry detergent, cleaners for bathroom, soups, lotions, facial stuff, allergy medicines ect ect The price was cheaper than the store and I've shopped around, so I figured I'd give it try, now I love it, I can't stand the cleaning products from the store. It can't compare on how well it cleans. The cost of the products, get this... I save money and I don't have to run Walmart which I don't always have an opportunity to do. (I love Walmart, I do sooo much shopping there)

I originally signed as a customer because I was so sceptical , but decided to do it for a home business because of how well they help train and help folks build their own business. It only made sense since so I can work around my kids schedule while they are in school.

I also started training again this week. Two old classmates from my middle school maybe running the ING Direct Hartford Marathon, so I feel obligated to at least do the 1/2 marathon. It's a nice flat course. I won't be ready for a full marathon, but I can get ready for at least the 1/2. If they both register... looking like I may need to myself LOL, it would be great to see some old classmates I haven't seen since the 8th grade. (so that' s like 27 years ago)

I took it slow with a walk on Monday of 2 miles, but I hate walking because my shins kill me when I walk.. so running I did today. The last few weeks, I put in a lot of swimming to help with my cardio and my back and my knee have been bugging me. I figured what on earth did I do that was different.... hmmm I haven't been running! I feel pretty good but I plan to pay a chiropractor a visit as well. I think I could have hurt my back while diving in my pool which is effecting my knee...(not a smart thing) lets see how I feel tommorrow.

Well I guess that's it for now, I'll make sure I'll post my new webpage and my music in the next few days. I hope that all my blog buddies will enjoy my music and once my web page is designed properly, I'll make sure you guys can check it out as well.

Happy running and training everyone.. Music should be on the blog in a few days.

Happy running!

Something Different

2009-07-18T09:58:00.002-04:00

Well after my 1/2 marathon, I was extremely excited and wanted to do another race. Now, I'm finding less time to get in my training due to my boys being home for the summer. I use to run first thing in the morning after they went off to school, but now they are home, I can't exactly leave them home by themselves, they'll end up beating up on each other. Last week my body ached so bad, I decided to take a bit of a break, about a week. Well, today I went out for a nice short run, and if felt great. I figured I maintain and and get back into more training when they get back into school. I plan to start hitting the pool a bit more since it's finally getting warmer. Another goal that has taken off has been music which I'm very excited about. My husband and I are working on putting together a band, and also a friend of mine also wants me to sing on some of his originals. This is so exciting! Singing and writing has always been a big part of my life. I'm hoping I can get started on working on my friends originals so I can give the opportunity to all my blog buddies to hear what I sound like. I'll keep you posted when I'll be recording and hopefully let you all get a chance to listen to it.

Stratton Faxon Fairfield 1/2 Marathon Completed WHOOT!!!

2009-06-30T08:54:00.004-04:00

Well I know it's been awhile since I have blogged, but I finally completed my first 1/2 marathon yippee!!!. My time was slow due not putting in the time I wanted to for training due to my kids being sick. 3:02. It was the most exciting run I have ever done, but probably one of the toughest runs. It was worth every mile I ran it. I didn't realize how many folks wanted to do this race, only max of 4000 participants, registration closed a week early, I ended up getting two messages from folks who really wanted to run the course. I'm wondering if they were able to make it anyway.

First I have to say thank you again for everyone who had supported me, my coach, friends, family and blog buddies. Again, I struggle with training, my health and trying to find the time with due to my kids and myself being sick. If feels so great to be able to get over that hurdle.

Team In Training were wonderful, supportive and a great group. Unfortunately, my family wasn't able to bring the camera to take pictures, but I know TNT has some and they were their cheering me on to the finish line.

My coach picked me up roughly around 6:15 a.m. so we could get a decent parking spot. We arrived at the beach (where the race started) around 6:30 a.m. and starting seeing some participants with Team in Training. We worked our way to the tent, I was completely blown away when the participants started to show up. Total of 108 participants with Team in Training for the race between the 5K and the 1/2 Marathon. They took some pictures of us all together and than I picked up my number tag and chip. They had the coolest chips this year, electronic.. nothing to tie on your shoe. It's kind of nice when you don't have to bend down after 13 miles to take off a chip off your shoe.

Well as we all were waiting at the starting line up, temperature was a great 61 degrees (Yes 61.. and it's the end of June) we couldn't have asked for a nicer day. The excitement and folks saying they just wanted to finish there were of 3500 participants just for the 1/2 alone.

Running, the first few miles weren't so bad nice and flat no hills until we started to reach mile 3... uggg, there were hills (most of them up hill) until mile 11, finally not more hills after mile 11. I was hoping to use my gels at mile 3, 6, and 9, but it ended up being mile 4, 7, and 10. While I ran this race I kept on thinking of all the folks who were in my life that have suffered with blood cancers, this was only a few hours for me, but they battle for months and years for treatments.

My first mile I wanted to dedicate to a little girl, she didn't have cancer, but she was killed that week. Her name is Gabriella, she was a 3rd grade 8 year old little girl (who went to my kids school) who was so sweet and kind and was killed by her mother who than killed herself due to a murder suicide. A friend of mine informed me that the mother was her cousin... it devastated me because they had not clue to why she did this. I wanted to dedicate this first mile to the little 8 year old girl, although she didn't have cancer... she didn't have a chance to fight either. God Bless her heart and she will be in many hearts forever.

At around mile 6 I started to see folks running the opposite way, I said wait they're going the wrong way haa haa, but they were actually finishing. I started to cheer them on.. it was actually kind of fun knowing how fast they can finish.. it took me forever. I said at this point, wow I'm not even 1/2 done and they flying way to go!

Anyway, mile 7 I was my coach, Fred!!! I was so happy to see a familiar face on course, there was a pretty good hill coming up and wanted to know how I was making out. I actually didn't feel so bad, I was a bit tired, but I didn't feel to bad at that point. He told me he was going to try to wait for me right before the finish line, than I ran up this hill, ( I can't walk up hills, no matter how hard I try I just can't)

By Mile 9 I started to really feel it, my body started to cramp... uggg I've never had that before even when I did my 20K, my whole body every muscle, my back, my legs my arms.., so I pushed on to the water stop at mile 10 and walked a bit and had my final gel, boy I really needed that, my muscle eventually stopped cramping.

This course what may be very hilly, was beautiful. The homes and folks that came out to spray water on you or offer you water was great. The houses were really great to see, there were a lot of trees too, which made it nice.. kept the run a bit cooler.

Mile 11 came, I started getting excited, I said only 2 miles, I can do this. I thought about my kids and hubby waiting for me. (they decided to come later to wait for me) I wanted to cry. I worked so hard and fought(which caused some stress) to raise this $ for Team in Training and training and wanting to do this since last year. It was worth everything I did to get to this point.

My last mile came up and I started to see the finishers... they cheered us on saying to keep going your almost done. There were two other young ladies that we kind of all ran around the same pace. It was grueling, but I said nope I'm pushing through this last mile for everyone I'm running this race for, as slow paced as I was I wanted to run my last mile in strong.

I finally started to see the entrance to the finish line... I WAS SO EXCITED....I ran a bit faster, than I saw my mentor Jessica... she ran with me..(she has been so supportive) I ran faster and stronger if felt so good to be seeing that finish line and my mentor running with me, I had a huge smile on my face... than I saw my kids and hubby cheering me on at the end... it was so exciting.. than I finally crossed that finish line... it felt SO good. Two of the other girls that just finished the same time from TNT crossed that finish line and cried... it was the best feeling I ran over to them and give them a hug too, I told them they deserved this because the worked really hard to get to this point.

I was so excited and happy to finish. I'm definitely up for running another 1/2 hopefully soon, maybe September. They have a labor day the Stratton Faxon New Haven 20K, or I may do another 1/2 marathon in Norwalk, CT but I'm not to sure how organized the run is.

I'm feel pretty decent two days after my race, I'm actually ready to run a few miles or bike a few. Although my next race probably won't be with Team in Training, I can't wait for it to be here, so I can beat my PR of 3:02.

Oh by the way, I didn't have to use one porta potty once!! Yeah!!

14 Days and Counting!!!

2009-06-14T22:52:00.002-04:00

Wow only 14 more days to go and I'm sick and I'm not letting it stop me. I'm running a fever and coughing, but that's nothing compared to what I went through last year. I'm so excited. I might not beable to finish this race real quick, but I plan to finish.

I was thinking of all the folks I'm running this race for everyday... there aren't enough miles to run compared to what they have been through.

I'm running in Memory of:

My Cousin
Louise Mannie III
passed away age 19
Leukemia

My Aunt Marie
Leukemia
passed away age 59

My Uncle Bob
Lymphoma & Leukemia
passed away in his 60's

Kim Horin
passed away
Leukemia (for her husband Larry :D keep smiling)

I think about them everyday of my life knowing what they had went through.

I'm running in Honor of:

Kevin Reid
In Remission (You rock Kevin!!!)

Roger Morris
In Remission (This one is for you and Leslie)

Rosemary Rainey
In Remission (What a tough fight your amazing!)

Luther Cooper
In Remission (Keep smiling)

Elija Talley
(What a tough fight your so brave Elija at such a young age)

All these people have been through so much as well as their families, they are all incredible and amazing. I wish I could do more for them.

Running a 13.1 miles is nothing compared to what they all have been through as well as their families.

I want to thank my all my friends, blogger followers and family members for supporting me. I also want to thank Team in Training, my mentors Jessica Arrien and Fred Harmon as well as the ladies at Team in Training Connectictut Chapter(Nicole and Tina) for all your support and help and encouragement to get me this far. (Also Chuck Householder a TNT member who is very supportive as well.)

Getting Closer

2009-06-07T22:11:00.003-04:00

Wow, my 1/2 marathon is only about 3 weeks away and getting down to the wire. My fundraising has gone pretty well I only need to raise little less than $200 to reach my goal. I did a fundraiser at a place called Two Boots downtown here in Bridgeport. A great place to go, I couldn't have done it without help from my buddy Johnny Guitar & his band,my friends, family, my hubby and Bob D. at Two Boots. I had a lot of fun and I even got to sing a few songs too. It was the best time I've had doing my fundraising because a lot of it has been a bit stressfull for me with planning in short periods of time with a lot of running around. To all my blog buddies and friends I want to thank so much for supporting me in the last year since I've starting blogging and attempting to reach my goal of $1700 with Team in Training. I'm so excited, I'm a bit nervous since my schedule has been so crazy the last few weeks with my son being sick and trying to practice some music, and fitting the time to train. I'm gearing up for a nice long run tommorrow in my nice running shoes 10 miler... lets see how it turns out. Weekends now are almost impossible to fit long runs in at all.

A Very Tough Week

2009-05-24T23:22:00.002-04:00

This week was probably one of tougest weeks I've had. I'm not to sure what more to do. My son was very very sick and I spent most of my day running to doctors and spending in the hospital. I havent' seen my son so sick for so long and was incredibly heart breaking to tell him when they poke you with a needle it's there to help him not hurt him. It wasn't the flu but a mix of two different things, so his body didn't handle the virus to well. He ended up getting stomach virus and also ended up getting a bacterial infection... soooo to make a long story short, it's been almost a whole week of my son still running a tempature, but finally after 5 day's he can at least eat some food and hold down his medicine. I'm not to sure how ready I'll be for my 1/2, my training went right out the door this week. It's been horrible the last two months. I'm hoping I can go for a run tommorrow and start up to see how well I can do. My 1/2 marathon is only 5 weeks away blahh. We will see how the outcome turns out.

I'm just very happy my son is feeling better. That's all that matters, he had a terrible week, and I'm glad he slowly feeling more like himself.

I'm also under a ton of stress one of my fundraiser I had to cancel and the one I've been trying to plan, has been very tough to set a date. Most places don't like running fundraisers on a weekend. I'm so stressed, I made a commiment to do this, I'll let you know this week turns out to be better.

I hope everyone else enjoys their Memorial Day weekend, this has been the most stressfull one of them all for me. I just have to try to look forward and move on.

6 More Weeks!!!!

2009-05-14T14:36:00.002-04:00

Wow, 6 more weeks before my First 1/2 Marathon the Stratton Faxxon 1/2 Marathon 2009. I can't believe it. I just hope the weather is just as nice. It's been in the mid 60's yes, the 60's perfect weather. Usually it's a tough race to do because it's hot, but maybe the hot weather will start later (crossing fingers) I'm starting to physically feel so much better (the medication my doctor gave me kicked what ever I had for 3 weeks, out of me 2 weeks ago) and I ran 6.5 miles today and feel pretty good even with a cold. I started more of a raw food diet (lettuce, tomato's & avocado with some w/ beans) and staying away from meat and resting more. I'm $550 away from my total goal on my fundraising and now as much as I would like to running the 1/2 marathon, this I know I can do. Hills will be the key in the race with hot weather MMMMMM.. how fun. So hill training it will be until the day of the race. Finding the time to do everything is the toughest part, with doctors appointments, planning fundraisers,my boys, and work, they are keeping me very busy.

I know my body will be strong for my 1/2, I'm totally looking forward to it especially running with Team in Training. I may be slow, but I'll know I'll finish. This race will be for so many people... In memory of My cousin Louie, Uncle Bobby, & Aunt Marie and In Honor of Luther, Roger, and Kevin.

Happy running, I'll be updating again soon.

Too Long

2009-04-20T23:34:00.007-04:00

From left to right.... My Mother-in-law Judy, Father-in-law Eddie, my son Zack, my hubby Hank, Me, and my little guy Nathan.

Well, I went on vacation to Texas thinking that it would have given me a chance to relax and train. Not only did I feel terrible, but I hardly ran but 9 miles last week. I've been a bit down and my energy levels are on the floor. My diet also has been a mess the last few weeks trying to prepare for this trip and going away. I'm hoping I can get back my motivation to get back into my routine again, it's been very difficult.

We visted Houston, TX which the weather was just beautiful. I ran on a treadmill for the first time in months and hated it, so God Bless all those folks that run on treadmills to train.

Anyway we went to church on Sunday and met someone who worked for NASA. We were planning to visit there on Monday, but this wonderful gentleman gave us a great tour. He works in area called the National Bouyancy Laboratory where all astronauts train in their full gear for training for weightlessness. We got an opportunity to get to see the astronauts get dressed. Unfortuntely there was some technical difficulty and were unable to see them enter the water, but it was very very cool. This is the largest training pool. Since the last launch for shuttle and working at the space station in 2010, this facility may be shutting down. I really hope they can keep it open, what a shame to close it down.

We also went to the Houston Zoo and got to see two of the coolest things, an Eagle and Komodo Dragon.

Today I was able to run a 4.2 miles. I ran it nice and easy and didn't stop, which lately I've been struggling with getting through the first mile. It felt great and now I need to focus on putting more time in for my workouts. I've been very depressed on not getting out to run, knowing that's I can catch up again, I feel much better. My energy levels are still the same... I have none at all. I'm not to sure what I can do to bring up my energy levels. My diet improved as soon as I came back... no more meats for me accept fish. I will never go on vacation and eat like that again!

Things to Think About

2009-04-09T20:36:00.003-04:00

Well things are going well for exception of my training. I haven't put in the time or milege I really need to put in to pick up my speed. Things have been so crazy and it's tough to put in any miles when it's still cold and rainy outside. My energy levels are awful, by 10:00 am I'm so tired, I'm falling asleep. I've also had a ton of things on my mind. My fundraising goal is going well, I spoke with TNT and they are transferring the $ that I raised for Hartford since I wasn't able to complete it because of my surgery. So with that and $ I sent in recently little over 1/2 way there YIPPEE!!!.

I just got a call from my dad, terrible news is that he got laid off from his job. He is 72 and has Parkinsons Disease. I can't believe he still worked to this day, and he's upset because he can't work. I wish I was closer to help him. He no longer can take physical therapy due to his insurance will not cover him due to a limit plus the cost of his co-pays were expensive...so he's back in a walker and needs a scooter which he doesn't have the $ for. I'm hoping that I can some how help him, but I don't know how. I do plan to visit him in Summer. I miss him dearly, my dad has always worked so hard and never ever complained. I want him to feel better so he can get around. I want him to enjoy his later years in life and not worry about taking care and providing for a family. I'm going to try my best to work hard to do something for him after my 1/2 marathon... My dad deserves it.

Well I'm hoping that my training week will go much better next week. I really need to find the time to do this. Happy running to everyone.. and if you can, on a practice run.. run a mile for my dad. ;D

One of Those Weeks

2009-04-02T14:40:00.002-04:00

Well this week I haven't put the miles I've wanted to, but my schedule has been nuts. Tueday I went to see Jesus Christ Superstar with Ted Neely, it was totally awesome. What an incredible voice he has. Monday I worked, Wednesday was my fundraiser and our of roughly 18 people who comfirmed only 3 showed up (My Mentor and a friend who also ran Team in Training & also someone else whos' running w/TNT). Soooooo, I was very disappointed, I'm not to sure if I even want to go through the entire thing, just to run with LLS. This group I know has supported and helped people I know with Leukemia and Lymphoma but I'm not sure if I want another disappointing turnout. I had some nice stuff that was raffled off and some of the employees even purchased tickets as well. Well we will see. This weekend we have a Talent Show and this year we are doing a food drive to collect food for needy family in our area. Not much of a big turnout on participants, I hope I get a better audiance.

Well I hope next week will be better, my spirits have been kind of down and I haven't been able to run as much as well (and wanting to)

Let you know what I plan to do, maybe I can do another fundraiser and hopefully I will get a better turnout.

What To Do

2009-03-26T19:16:00.002-04:00

Well, went to my Endocrinologist visit and had some blood work done. I've been feeling a bit sluggish, but I've been using this energy spray which helps me get through the day, or I'm dead by 3 pm. I made sure this time I would get a copy of my blood work, always good to get a copy. I called his office, to talk about my results, my blood work is showing that my T3 counts are low, but he comments more on my Vitamin A & D which are, low as well, than my T3. If my T3 is slow, that means I'm on a bit sluggish, but the nurse who called me back said my doctor told me this is okay. That's one of reasons why I probably can't take the pounds off I've been wanted too. Not to sure what I'm going to do if my doctor isn't going to help me. I do plan to call my ND tommorrow, I should make an appointment with her. I really need to bring these levels up. I know if I lost at least 5 or 10 lbs it would make a world of a difference in my running. I will try to talk to this doctor again and see what he says since he wanted to treat me with T3 hormone last year, but we will see if he plans to do anything. I've struggled with so many doctors not caring it stinks. Not to sure what to do, my ND is a wonderful doctor, she's been my lifesaver, the only thing is we have only one car, so I will try to get to see her soon I hope.

Some good news, I went to Easter Mountain Sports, there was a girl who worked there who was so incredibly helpful. She's a runner and gave me some good hints. She suggested the type of shoe and inserts I need as well as good hints on running in the hot weather. My 1/2 marathon at the end of June gets pretty warm, I remember from last year doing the 5K it was a hot day. She suggested I get some e-caps. So I plan to take her advice and pick up some a new pair of shoes and inserts as well in May before my race at the end of June.

Lets see how next week goes.

Starting Over

2009-03-16T16:18:00.002-04:00

Well, things have been absolutely bonkers and my training totally went down the tubes last week. I put in 4 days, but not enough that I would be happy with. I finally decided to get myself a much needed new pair of running shoes. I decided in Adidas because they made my feet very happy last time, and they haven't been to happy the last month or so. Well today I took them for a test run. Felt great and on top of that, my body did not ache as bad and my legs and back feel better too. I didn't realize what a difference it would make. It's been so tough trying to get out to the store and not having transportation during the day stinks a bit..(we have one car).

I think what's made a difference too is the weather. It's been so beautiful, in the 50's. Perfect weather. I didn't have to wear my winter running gear, my runners coat with a hat and mittens. It's nice to get a break from that cold weather, I think spring has finally arrived.

Although I have to say, I have some good news. I heard from my old trainer, (Winston Jeune) from when I was in Tae Kwon Do. I was so excited to hear from him. He was the teacher who gave me to drive and pushed me and made me think about how I can become better. He's always given me the best advice and has also gave me some new suggestions for my running like taking up yoga. Hearing from him makes me really want to get into martial arts again, but since we are on a budget.., I may have to put that off until finances are a bit better. I was in the best shape I ever was when I took up martial arts, maybe I should apply some of that into my training now.

Well anyway. I hope everyone who is getting spring weather is enjoying every minute of it, I know I am. Happy Training!!!!

My Fundraising Event and Status of my Training

2009-03-06T16:46:00.002-05:00

Well, I finally booked a date Tuesday March 31st to do my Fundraising Event. March 31st at a place called the Black Bear Saloon. in Norwalk. I'll keep folks posted and take lots of photos to post on my blog and my facebook account.

Well my training last week went back wards. I think with my not having enough time to run, and the weather, plus my diet, my mileage went backwards, but this week it's looking better. My body was telling me I needed a bit of break last week. I was really disappointed that I didn't do as well as week before.

I hit the gym twice two days this week and ran 3 days now I have my weekend to run the rest of mileage. the week. Tomorrow I plan to do a long run but I do have to waitress in the evening, so I'm not to sure how long my long run will be hopefully 6 to 7 miles. I have of course, like usual, a ton of stuff to do tomorrow. Working as a waitress and being on my feet gets a bit tough when you do a long run the same day.

My strength and core training is going okay, I wish I had the time to do more and put more time into it, but I see how it has helped me improve my running alot.

Well everyone happy training :D. I don't think I'll be doing any hill training tommorrow... it really kicked my butt the week before. Normal hills is okay for me tommorrow, I don't think there's a flat surface around where I live if I looked.

A New Route

2009-02-26T20:43:00.007-05:00

Nice Hill run
Find more Runs in Bridgeport, Connecticut

I just started a new route, great practice run on hills, did a nice easy run and got to see a few runners along the route. Enjoyed it on a beautiful day, it was in the 40's and dry. I'll let you know when my timing picks up on this one, I was a bit slow on this but really enjoyed this run alot. Check out the elevation on this one :D.

Back To Routine

2009-02-22T18:58:00.003-05:00

Well this week my kids had the entire week off, trying to keep them entertained was another story. For now on, I know what they like, to roller skate. There is a local roller rink that opens when the kids are off from school for a few hours a day during the entire week they are off on vacation. I got the greatest workout ever roller skating and it was alot of fun too. Wore my kids out hee hee...wait... I wore my kids out (Okay now isn't it suppose to be the other way around?)

It was great having them home for a week, but I had more fun spending time with them and having fun. My little guy read his books, my older son did his vacation home work packet, now finally they are back to school tommorrow. I'll miss them, but looking forward to going back to a normal routine. I'll have a bit more time to put in for training to prepare for my 1/2 Marathon in June. I was able to at least do a my first 7.36 miles since my surgery :D (with a quick bio & drink break) took my time on that run and had some walk stops on the last mile, but all in all it was a good run.

I also discovered... I need new running shoes. The tops of my feet having been killing me even after relacing, and I never had that problem before. I decided I need to go another 1/2 up again when I look for a new pair, plus I put a few hundred miles on this pair. Let you know how I make out.

Happy training everyone lets hope for a the weather to get warm soon, the cold weather had been a bummer.

Is It Spring?

2009-02-11T12:31:00.002-05:00

What a beautiful day today, in the upper 50's. Weather I've wanted to run in for along time, I actually today ran in a t-shirt. Well, training is going very well. I think that my cross training is a huge key, I didn't realize how important it was to cross train and eat right and how much better I would feel. I try hitting the gym 3 times a week, if not I try to do other cardio and core stuff at home. Plus I plan to take some advice from Shirley.... (more weights and strenghth training)

In regards to eating, I now eat every 2 to 3 hours small meals. I feel like I'm always eating, but at least they are healthy snacks. I've been doing so much better on staying away from meats (chicken, beef & Pork) I really notice the difference. I cook it for my family meat, but I only eat the veggies and rice. I try to make up for my protein through with protein shakes and fish (tuna and white fish) snacks are usually fruit & veggies. I've been staying away from gluten as well.

I'm hoping my timing will start to pick up, I tried a new podrunner mix of 175 bpm and boy it really did a number on me, but if felt great. If I stick to this I know it will improve my time a lot more. My 1/2 in June is going to go well, I've just been spoiled with cooler temps, I hope it's not hot that day. 50's is perfect weather to run in. Time to pick up some Cliff shots and I'm going to try some stuff called Goo for my long runs on the weekends.

Thanks everyone for all your support, even my friends from my online games I play (DDO and LOTR). When I saw Shirleys post of when she was in martial arts, it made me think of how much work and time that I had put into my training when I was in Martial Arts myself. It payed off too, I ended up winning a Silver Medal in the NJ States Championship 1994 for my age and weight. So, I look back and think of how much I pushed myself... well I think that it's time again I do the same. No pain no gain for me.... as I always say when you push, push harder to get to point you want to be at. I can't wait until my 1/2 marathon.

Picking It Up a Notch

2009-02-03T14:03:00.003-05:00

Well, so far I've been feeling pretty good the last few weeks considering I still have a lingering cold. I would have never thought two weeks ago I'd be saying that I felt great and I'm seeing results. I stuggled so much just to get to this point. My diet has been coming along and improved which has most likely helped me on my running as well. When I eat right, I feel wonderful.

Although I find it tough on somedays to fit in any of my workouts in, I'm very comfortable now with a 4 mile run. I think I really need to pick up my training more not so much my running but cross training, strength and core. I don't always have the opportunity to make it to the gym, but there is a ton of stuff I can do at home.

I've also started my fundraising again for Team In Training for Fairfield 1/2 Marathon. I'm very excited and I'm really looking forward to my 1/2 Marathon with the group in June. My last race I was unable to join them do to my surgery and I was unable to meet my fundraising goal. Now I'm back withTeam In Training and I'm ready to get back into it again. I've got a big job ahead of me I'm looking forward to the challenge.

Nutrician

2009-01-27T11:31:00.003-05:00

Everyone has been so terrific trying to help me with my diet. I wanted to give everyone my updated information on what I can to eat because this list is alot shorter than what I can't eat. I have Celiac Disease and I have a Sulfite allergy. The Celiac is alot easier to live with because there is a ton of food that is gluten free which is wonderful, BUT..... yes there is a but. Most of the gluten free foods I can not have. Most have starches or enriched flours (rice flour, potatoes starch, tapioca and other stuff) and dried fruits as well have sulfites in or on them. If I eat a small amount of any of these foods I get horrible headaches and heart palipitations and my face gets red. I am so highly allergic to sulfites, chewing gum gives me headaches(yep sulfites in that too), most fruits and veggies at the food store have sulfites to preserve them. (I use a veggie wash and buy organic) So to make a very long story short, I'm very limited. This is what I can eat since it's just much easier.

Brown Rice (rice cakes are yummy)
Quinoa (it's yummy)
organic fruites and veggies (no onions or garlic)
Rice cakes :D.
Certain beans(that do not bother me)
seeds
nuts
olive oil
rice vinegar (sometime that bothers me to)
spices (should by freash)
(Flax Seed bothers me alot but I love it)

Meats
I can have most meats but need to cut down fat due to the problem of having cysts. I have a tough time processing fat because of the Celiac Disease. I have two liver cysts as well which I need to cleanse my liver and try to some how shrink the cysts.
So it's pretty much Fish for me

Dairy

(also fatty, try low fat again because of the liver cysts, my ND wanted me not to have dairy because of the hormones and fat)
Rice milk is great but it's enriched
Organic Almond Milk
(NO SOY PRODUCTS ESPECIALLY TOFU)

So that is pretty much what I can have so being creative it very hard to do. I do not do well with night shade fruits and veggies. (potatoes & oranges) so I use sweet potato & grapefruit.

I do realize I don't eat enough calories in my diet that I should be eating and that's why I feel hungry all the time. I eat a lot of banana's and I take an great iron supplement, w/B12 and folic acid.

I'm not anemic anymore due to my wonderful ND (first time in 6 Years) that's was a huge hurdle I needed to over come. That's has given my my energy back, now I need to try to eat more.

Now all I have to do is get over this cold. Only thing now is for Winter to Go Away and Spring (Oh Spring) I long for warmer temps. I don't like running in 20 degree weather anymore and try to eat more, I think that's the key! Maybe than I'll lose some weight.

Winter Training Isn't So Bad

2009-01-23T18:14:00.006-05:00

Well I'm slowly getting use to running in the cold weather. It was really nice today it was in the upper 30's. It is such a nice change from the single digits and teens we've been getting. I did my first run of over 4.50 miles today since my surgery. It was a bit rough for about the first mile and I walked only 3 times for a minute for the entire run. I'm hoping by now it'll get easier for me to do my 3.8 I normally do. The side walks are a bit clearer and the snow started to melt a little today, but it's suppose to get cold again tomorrow and into to next week again. I'm hoping that I will be prepared to do my half marathon in June. I'm really looking forward to it. I'm thinking of ordering some resistance bands, and a exercise ball because I can't always make it to they gym, and just easier to do it at home. I really think working my core will really help improve my running.

And for some reason, I don't seem to be losing any weight. It could be my thyroid, (I only have a small portion of mine) I'm not to feeling tired or run down which is good news which is a big give away when it becomes slow for me. In regards to my diet, I haven't been very good with lately. I'm eating foods I'm not suppose too like foods with gluten and not enough veggies. My ND(Naturopathic Doctor) wanted me to go vegan and gluten free (which I was before but have been bad lately). Needless to say, that doesn't leave me with much variety in my diet. I really need to lower my fat intake and chicken can be fatty and I've been cooking a lot of that lately as well. Just when I though my running was tough, I seem to struggle more with the food I eat more than anything. Wish me luck, I'm attempting to try to go vegan again. (plus gluten)

Cold Weather

2009-01-14T13:37:00.003-05:00

Well the cold weather is here, I knew it was going to hit us sooner or later. I've actually gotten use to the colder weather upper 20's and 30's isn't really all that bad to run in if the road and side walks are clear. It does get tricky because some of my route does not have side walks, and there is still some snow and ice on some walk ways. I actually think it's kind of funny running on it, but man what a work out to do. You have to keep your balance as you run, it gets very tricky and it's almost like running in the sand a bit but its cold ice and snow. I was able to get out today, it's now 18 degree's with a Winds of chills of 9 degress and wind gusts up to 27 mph. It wasn't to bad, the wind that is, I really thought it was going to be worse. I dressed in 3 layers of pants and a tank top, turtle neck, sweat jacket, & My running coat. I was very warm and didn't feel the wind or cold at all on my upper body. (of course I put on my pink hat & my mittens which makes a hug difference) Tommorrow is going to be a gym day, it is going to be in the single digits. I find a lot of times running in the cold my legs feel a lot heavier. I'm not to sure if it's because of the cold or because of all the clothes I'm wearing. Plus breathing in the cold air I find it a bit more difficult the first half of my 3.5 mile run. I hope it warms up a bit by next week. Running in the winter is incredibly challenging.

The Gym

2009-01-07T10:40:00.003-05:00

Well I've been hitting the gym and on the nicer day's I do my running outside. The last few days were really great workouts. I'm so excited. But today, I'm glad I'm taking the days off, we knew were going to get ice, but wow, slippery it was early in the morning. My poor kids still had school and the side walks were not pretty. But it looked really cool on everything else. Can you imagine trying to run on this?

A New Year A New Start

2009-01-01T21:03:00.005-05:00

Well I've totally slacked off in the last few weeks, I've been so unmotivated to go out and run because of this terrible weather, here are a few pictures. The first one was the on New Years Eve. The second picture was the storm on the 19th the day before going out to visit my mom in PA. That one we got a lot of snow, cold, ice ect.

Of course the side walks aren't shoveled yet and it was still snowing like crazy.

Well I'm hoping with my I can finally try my brand new running coat my twin gave me for Christmas, I can finally start to use it. Here is my new coat :D.

Since today is January 1st, I have decided no excuses my first run will be tommorrow before our next storm tommorrow night. I will let you know how it goes. I'm going to try out my new coat. My next purchase now is new winter tights.

2009 is going to be a fun year, my main goal is to finally complete a 1/2 marathon, my second is my music and the third is my career. I'm looking forward to all my new goals and challenges!!!!

Let It Snow

2008-12-18T16:48:00.002-05:00

Well got most of my shopping done, now here comes the snow. They are expecting our first snow storm tommorrow and more snow Sunday as well. I'll make sure I post pictures. I'm not to sure if I'll have time to put anywork out in this weekend it's going to one of nutty running around weekends which is a bummer. I had a great run today 3.2 a bit slow but it felt great and it was the first run that I didn't struggle with. My endurance is slowly starting to coming back and it was wonderful it was in the 30's and sunny which was great.

Scheduling

2008-12-15T18:32:00.002-05:00

Well this week, I'm going to try to put in the milege I wanted to last week. My weekends seem to get crazier by the second and getting up at 6 am on a Saturday mornings when it's still dark and in the teens, really discourages me from going outside. Plus I haven't even finished decorating my tree, which is up but not decorated. I went out today my first 1/2 (1.58) went really well, than I discovered how hot I was and decided to take my sweatshirt off (it was in the mid 50's). After I did that my heart rate monitor I think pooped out on me it was reading like 79 bpm. I said no way, I'm running? Maybe the battery going on it? After I took it off and put it back on like 3 times, it started to work again after a few minutes, but it threw my timing off and my pace. So, I walked the rest of the way and forgot to reset my watch. I did enjoy this beautiful weather today and enjoyed the run, this week it's going to drop back into the 20's & 30's (like tommorrow) and rain/snow for the rest of the week. I hope I get a chance to put in some type of a workout. I will probably end up doing core inside if the weather is to yucky. Also I noticed the last few runs my ankles have been killing me. Now I'm not to sure if it's the sneaker or the inserts. I'll keep you updated.

Workouts

2008-12-12T20:25:00.002-05:00

I was able to make it to the gym this week and had a terrific workout. Boy, I forgot what a great workout you can get there and all the fun equipment they have. I started up with a warm on the the bike, than did abs than some weights and did my 3 mile run. My legs feel good by I really feel the weight work on my upper body. I'm trying to make a decision on if I should get some small equipment at home such as flex bands or one of the big exersize balls to work my core when I can't make it there. I figured if I put in my average 3 miles and my 5 mile runs plus heavy core, when I start to train in the spring it will just make it easier. I was also thinking of some Yoga tapes for the day's I'm stuck home and can't make it to the gym on a rainy raw cold day's. Does anyone have any suggestions on whats good to help build my core and strength?

I Was Right Again!!!!

2008-12-11T00:20:00.003-05:00

Well, got a call from the doctors office, they were wrong I was right. Go figure, back on meds for a week. Not to sure if I'm going to make it out for a run in the next few days, the weather is going be pretty terrible, might hit the gym or do core. It was 17 on Monday and today it was 57 degrees when I woke up. This weather is nuts.

I don't feel too horrible, but the antibotics make me tired. Let you know how I make out for my Saturday run if I get up early enough. Plan to do a 5 mile run.

Winter Is Here

2008-12-08T11:17:00.008-05:00

Well went out for my run today and it started out this morning with a lovely 17 degrees and a windchill of 6. I layered like crazy... I felt like a marshmallow, but I was warm and I ran my first 3.2 straight since my surgery. I wore my brand shoes and inserts and they felt pretty good.

These are a picture of my new Saucony Trail Runners and my inserts.

They were great with the snow and ice (YES SNOW) on the ground today. I also got myself a two piece outfit.

Than of course my inserts made my feet even happier in them. My neuroma didn't bother me so much until the end. I decided to change my route today a bit... I decided to end my run on a nice big hill. Yes end on a hill. I did it, I figured I shouldn't avoid them if I'm going to prepared for my 1/2 in June with TNT. I heard there are a ton of hills.

This weekend was a bit of a disappointment, even though I did go out on Saturday, I wanted to do more, it was just a crazy weekend, we had a Christmas Party for the kids at the church and I got to help the kids sing some songs..... I have to admit I think they helped me out more.

I also volunteered to do a talent show at our church in April. I thought this year we collect food for the local food banks and also come up with a spring theme. Oh and my mentor for TNT, Fred, said there is a local group that prepares you for marathons starting in March. They start with 5K's and work their way up. He said if you complete the program they give you a metal, so I told him I was in.

Well, looks like I'm filling up my schedule and 2009 isn't here yet. I'm really looking forward to it and I'm very excited I know that this year will be much better.

The Big OKAY

2008-12-05T09:16:00.003-05:00

Well, went for my final visit to my doctor, I'm actually doing fine, no problems , no UTI's. Went for my final visit up at Yale and everything is good and he said I can train as much as a want :D. That makes me very very happy. Only thing is a bit of scaring from the surgery, which may have been causing me the problems I've been getting.

Today, I decided to get a pair of running shoes and I ended up getting yesterday a great pair of inserts. They make my feet very every happy. Let see if I now can get a proper fitting shoe, wish me luck, I'll let you know how I make out after all my running around today. (if no run today, I may have to hit the gym tonight) OOO and since I've been looking for some type of work, they are hiring for personal trainers at Bally's (must be a new one opening up in New Haven. I've also been a member of Bally's for about 8 years. I hope I get a response, filled out an online application online, I'll let you know how I make out.

Well let you know how I make out with the new shoes.

Update

2008-12-03T15:23:00.003-05:00

Well, today I discovered I need to wait to go running, and wait a few days to find out what I can do. I've been feeling a bit under the weather and unmotivated to get outside in the cold weather the last few days. My back had been bothering me a lot yesterday, and I just ached all over. I only discover this morning that I have another UTI (symptoms that aren't good), which my doctors discovered I had a bigger problem last time and got me into this big mess with the surgery to begin with. I do have a follow up appointment with my doctor tommorrow (this was suppose to be a follow up from my surgery from 7 weeks ago) I just hope that the appointment not only will take care of this, but stop the problem from happening over and over.

I also woke up realizing my son gave me his cold as well, thank goodness I'm not training for any races anytime soon. I'm a bit frustrated with my health. I've always tried to keep healthy by working out and eating right. I just started to get back into my routine and bam, I'm at a stop again. I know it'll be a very quick recovery and I'm sure i'll beable to jump back into my routine by the weekend, which is suppose to be very cold. the 30's and 40's are okay, but I'm not looking foward to the snow and rain we might get.

Maybe it will give me the opportunity to get myself a new pair of running shoes which I really need. I was taking a look at some nice pair of trail runners on sale.....mmmm I was so tempted yesterday but they didn't have my size. I'm not to sure if I want to order my new running shoes online because I really want to know how they feel with my inserts (which I need another pair) I'll let you know what pair I decide on.

I'm Back

2008-11-28T12:33:00.006-05:00

Well this week I decided I was going to try to starting running my first 1.58, well I was very surprised. My average mile is quicker than it was before I had my surgery. I'm thinking the interval training with a run/walk is working for me. Although I run slow than run fast. It's been 6 weeks since my surgery and I'm so happy I'm back. I think the weather can be rough for winter training, it's suppose to rain and be in the 40's on Saturday, I may have to hit the treadmill in the gym with some weights. For Thanksgiving, I ate like crazy, but I had more fruit than anything else. It was a lot of fun seeing the hubby's side of the family.

Here was that wonderful fruit I couldn't stop eating from. MMMM the chocolate covered apples were soooo good. Oh, and the turkey was slamming too!

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving like me :D.

Health Can Be Challanging

2008-11-25T10:47:00.005-05:00

Well went to my ND yesterday, good news, she can help me for my cysts and my Mortons Neuroma (accupuncture). She believes I still need to go for a 2nd opinion for my cysts on my liver. (I have two which bother me). I really didn't want to see another doctor but I'll take her advice, she says I can have them drained, and with a strict Vegan Diet for detox and some of her homepathic remedies, I'll beable to keep them away. She said at least I can wait until after Thanksgiving for going on a Vegan Diet. It's going to be incredibly tough since I'm on strick diet now. It's bad enough I have Celiac Disease (No gluten!!!! wheat,rye,oats,bran, or barley or derivitive of it)which I've learned to live with and I'm allergic to sulifites (which is in a ton of gluten free stuff and on certain fruits and veggies)

So My Diet Will Be:

Almond Milk , Rice Milk
Dark green veggies
all fruit but no (strawberries or grapes Sulfites)
(No corn bread or starches they soak corn in sulfites )
nuts & Seeds (no Peanuts)
beans
rice
potatos (nightshades tend to make me achy so I need limit them)
White fish :D (Tilapia, flounder, ect)
Olive oil only ( no other oils )
Brown Rice, Brown rice pastas
Egg Whites only (protein)
IM NOT GIVING UP THE COFFEE!!!! I JUST CAN'T, EVERYTHING ELSE BUT MY COFFEE.

Anyone have any more idea's? I did discover Yucca Bread (Cassava) it's mexican and made from the Yucca plant (not to bad)

Now I have to be more creative than ever...... I mean really creative if you have any ideas please shoot them my way please.

I'm still going try very hard to do this I hope I can stick to it. I need to make myself a diet calender for the day. That will probably help me to let me know what I'm eating.

Food is just as much of a challenge for me like running, (I think the running is way easier than food )

FREEZE!!!!

2008-11-19T10:17:00.005-05:00

Well today was my first day of going outside in really cold weather today's forecast:

Windy 10-27 mph wind gusts
26 degrees
feels like 19 degrees

But I still went outside and did my thing. I almost ran a mile :D today, although I know I should take it easy I feel great and if I feel I need to stop and walk I do. It's a little tough with all those clothes on. I put on three layers and wore 2 pairs of pants (stretchy pants under fleece). My legs were nice and warm so I didn't cramp which I was afraid of happening because of the cold. I have to admit, I enjoyed getting out, but wearing all those clothes made my movement limited especially with my arms. Winter training is going to be a bit tricky, lets just hope it doesn't get any colder outside, I'm not sure I would want to go out in the teens and single digits. The weather is suppose to warm up over the weekend (40's)we will see.

Winter training..... it makes me really want to move down south just for the winter.

Crazy Weekend

2008-11-17T09:36:00.003-05:00

Well this weekend had me so busy I didn't get a chance to do anything if I wanted too and today it's cold outside. I had two birthday parties my son was invited and other things I had to do. I forgot how crazy my weekends can get now them I'm back to some what back to my normal schedule. (so looks like early workouts Saturday mornings) Give it up to our bloggers who did a Marathon this weekend way to go. Marathon Chris had a rough start but finished incredibly strong. Shirley crushed one like always.

I've had alot of things to think about this weekend, I heard some terrible news, a co-worker of mine her hubby doesn't have to much time with us. I was pretty upset hearing the news knowing she's staying so strong for him, working really hard and taking care of him with out her feelings getting the best of her. She's an amazing woman and a true hero like her hubby. Her name is Terry... Please keep her in your prayers as she gets through this trying time. I admire her deeply for being the person she is. Also the bummed out news that Marathon Chris had endured before her race even started. I though about her all day and kept up on the live feed. I was sooooo happy when when she finished and so proud of her for doing it. I hope she had a quick recovery. But yet there is one more... my twin was just diagnost with a fast thyroid, now since I have suffered with fast and now slow, I feel her pain. Having a fast thyroid is worse than having a slow one, and I'm so happy my problem has been resolved but being on medication for the rest of my life is no fun. It does some crazy things to your body and hormones.

I thought about how lucky I am feeling the way I do compared to a few months ago, I hope I can give some words of encourangement to all who are down when injured or sick, it does get better and makes us even stronger. I received incredible support from my family, folks from church and bloggers to encourange me to get through this that this is only one battle to get through and I'll be back. My co-worker, I know in my heart that God will give her some peace and get through the toughest time of her life. God Bless her and everyone for staying strong.

Feeling Good

2008-11-10T10:36:00.002-05:00

Well today I went for a great walk, it was really nice, a little cool in the upper 40's but felt wonderful, first half went terrific, I realize how great if felt to be outside and doing what I was doing before. I really miss running and jogged a bit here and there. My muscles wanted to cramp on me on my second half. Since my surgery, I completely avoided using the area I had surgery on and got use to using different muscles and bending completely different. Actually on my 2nd week home I never realized how many times I use to bend down a day to pick up stuff off the floor. I wonder how many times I do, I need to count and let everyone know, folks may not realize how much they really do it as well. It was an task and actually hated to bend down to pick stuff up the first few weeks after my surgery and I compensated alot. So, I think using the different muscles that are a bit sore, makes all the difference in the world. I need to do so some light core exercises to start learning to use them again. I know I should be taking it easy, and I will listen to my body. So tommorrow, stretching and core, Wednesday will be my other walk of 3.2 Wow, and it was an easy 3.2 it still felt incredibly great!!!!

MY FIRST MILE

2008-11-05T11:38:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone, I'm back..... I did my first 1.56 miles today, what great weather (62 degress). I have some pictures to post, I hope you enjoy them. This is my neighborhood on my normal simple route. But is sure is pretty when the sun out and you can really see the color of the leaves.

This picture is a picture of my girlfriend (Rhonda) She's totally great :D, we always chat waiting for the kids to come home.

Here is my youngest coming off the bus, and my final stop on my run.

And my final picture of my lonely bike waiting to be used outside hee hee.

I'm can't wait to jump back on my bike and also start to run again. I think the last few weeks are the longest to wait, I feel better but not 100%, but I know I'll be there soon.

Walking

2008-11-03T13:20:00.003-05:00

Well folks I will start working out this week :D. Only thing is the running will have to be put on the back burner for another 5 weeks. So my doctor told me it's okay to walk :D, walking is good, I'm wondering of biking is good too. I'm very excited, if it is nice tommorrow, I'll start off with my first 1.56 miles. Let you know how it goes.

Yippee!!!!!

2008-10-31T17:12:00.002-04:00

Well folks, looks like my health is slowly coming back, I should be able to start training in the next week or so it's been 3 weeks since my surgery and each day is getting better and better. I plan to take it easy at first, than I'll be back and hitting the pavement. I'm so happy.... I can't wait to train again. I think I might have put on a few pounds, not sure if it's swelling from the surgery on not, it could be. Now I get to winter train....super yuk. I totally missed the fall, not was I was planning but, if worse comes to worse I'll hit the gym.

Key things to now is bring up my iron levels... I think they are worse than before, surgery did a number on me and start eating alot healthier.

Looking like November

2008-10-21T09:23:00.002-04:00

Well the weather has been absolutely beautiful, and I've been stuck just hobbling around the house here and there. I am happy that the surgery is over, just waiting to heal up, but I also have to be careful not to over do it as well. I did that only 4 days after my surgery and boy what a very very bad bad idea I really paid for it to the point I had to becareful not to end up back in the hospital again. I can't wait until I'm healed up it's only been about 11 days and I'm already going stir crazy hee hee. Well, I hope I can take my kids out for Halloween and go to The Who concert in a week (eeeeeeeeee only a week). Well, that's it for now until I can get back into the groove again, I can't wait.

I'm Home

2008-10-13T10:07:00.002-04:00

Well everyone my surgery was a success and I'm back and home wabbling around. The first few days of my surgery was a bit tough, the room kept spinning and I don't think I could have held down a sip of water if I wanted. Now I'm home doing more than I should, but I'm just starting to get use to the idea I have two tubes sticking out of me for three weeks and counting. It takes me forever to get ready, but at least I can move around the house. I've had a ton of help at home, and my boys have been more helpful than I could ever ask them to be.

My mentor(Fred) from Team and Training ran the ING 1/2 Marathon and dedicated 3 miles to me and my family and ran in for my friend Kevin as well. His personal record of 2:11 minutes. Fred and I will be heading a TNT booth for LLS on the 19th, so I'll let you know how that goes. Well everyone bye for now I should be back in a few short weeks, they did tell me when I left the hospital that I can't go running when I go home, well at least for now, soon in hopefully another month I should beable too.

Less than a week

2008-10-06T12:09:00.003-04:00

Wow, only 4 more days to my surgery... in away I can't wait, I can't wait to get better and train. Hee Hee, ask me that on Saturday when I come home from the hospital. I was thinking of taking some pictures of the trail I trained on before this all happend to me before my surgery so you all can see how nice it looks now that the leaves are changing. I'll charge up the batteries tonight.

Natural Way

2008-09-27T15:33:00.004-04:00

Well I decided after doing some research last night and Shirley as well, I'm either going to try Acupuncture or a new thing called Prolotherapy. I'm so excited because I found out what Prolotherapy can do. Blogger buddies with injuries should really read up on this. I figured I've had to deal with doctors many times, there has got to something out there that works. Now I know for a fact that Acupuncture works, but I wasn't to sure if it would work on my neuroma on my foot much due to the injury and surgery I had. Prolotherapy helps my body rebuild new things to make it better. (tendons, ligaments, nerves) Wow, I'm getting excited thinking about it more and more. So wish me luck, staying away being put out again off my feet and going for something new and naturally so it won't take me off my training. I figured I'd take care of both the same time, but I think this is the better route. I set up a link for everyone to read up on it. Enjoy

My Elijah Band

2008-09-26T19:24:00.003-04:00

I was so excited I opened up my mail box and I received some mail from Susan :D. She sent me my Elijah Band. I'm sooo happy, I can't wait I put it on, fits perfect. I'm so looking foward to my next race. Today I was thinking what I can do that maybe would help me improve my running, and I think my biggest thing is Mortons Neuroma ( A build up of tissue on the nerve) on my foot. I'm still battling if I should get surgery to take it out, or just try the needle to kill the nerve (alcohol injections in the nerve), which I've tried. The nice thing about the shots is that no recovery time, but it's a series of shots (6) in 3 month period of time. Now the surgery is a 6 week recovery, but I won't have to go through the shots again. If I get it done asap, mmm maybe I can recover from both and than I'll be in tip top shape and I won't suffer so much from that stupid pain in my foot. I noticed I use to run with a limp near the end of my runs, because of it. I think it's time to pay a visit to the podiatrist for that as well. As much as I hate the idea of seeing another doctor, I'm going to try the accupuncture first. I tried it the first time around with my stomach problems and boy what a difference. So I'm going to do some research, try natural way first. Have any suggestions anyone.

October 10th

2008-09-17T11:35:00.003-04:00

Well October 10th is my big day... a date with the hospital. I'm already counting the days to get back into training. I can't wait to start up again. I'm not to sure if I'll be ready for any runs in January with TNT. Disney is kind of like early January so I don't think 8 weeks is going to be enough time to train. I may end up doing a fall run with them, Fairfield 1/2 where I first saw TNT. I'll probably run a few 5 K's in between, hopefully before winter really starts to kick into gear, but it will give me a ton of time to really train, and cross train. Thanks to all the bloggers who have supported me, it hasn't been easy to come to a complete stop of doing any type of workout, but I'm really looking forward in jumping back into the routine, and keeping you updated on any progress that comes along. Keep up all the great work everyone I'll join you all again shortly.

A New Run

2008-09-10T15:53:00.004-04:00

Well, the news is a I need surgery, hopefully they can get me in soon so I can go back to training again. I can't seem to avoid it if I wanted too.(too much pain) The good thing is tomorrow I can set a date for my surgery,(the sooner or better) Hopefully I'll be ready and will be able to do the Disney or Arizona in January with TNT. We will see. Wish me luck, until than happy training, bad girls, go kick some butt ladies and I'll see if they can give me the okay on any type of workout. I'll post stuff along the way.

Stand Still

2008-09-06T10:26:00.002-04:00

Well my training right now is at a stand still. Last few weeks I've been struggling a bit with pain, thinking I was getting better. But this week I have done a thing but maybe walk about 2 miles because I had too. I just found out recently I have 5 cysts (all on my right side) and an enlarged liver.(mmm so that's why I was in so much pain)
The news has put a stop to my training until I know what my doctors want to do do on Monday. I hope, I can get back into training, if not I may need to even put the Hartford 1/2 on the back burner because I'm not to sure what my doctors want to do yet. ( would really hate to burst any cysts) Well hopefully I'll get some news that will take care of the problem and go full force into my training again. After coming all this way (a 20K) I do hope I can get back to that point, I worked pretty hard. Let you know the news, and if I can do any type of training would make me extremely happy. Unfortuntely, the way I've felt this week, I can't do a thing until they take care of it. Wish me luck on my Monday's appointment. (I'm still going to run something for all those folks out there, so don't worry.) :D I'm not giving up.............I'm going to do this

MY FIRST 20K

2008-09-01T19:26:00.003-04:00

WOW, I did my first 20K (12.1 miles) ever my longest distance yet, The Stratton Faxxon New Haven Road Race my official time was 2 hours and 39 minutes. I had a bit of a tough run considering what kind of week I had, but I did it. My 1/2 marathon will be very comfortable for me, hopefully I can improve on speed. I was a straggler may I say the least but I finished it. I just found out today that this race is the Official National Race for the 20K, which is so cool. I so glad I finished but I again, it was a tough run I walked alot and my heart rate was on the high side. I hope my training for the Half in October the ING DIRECT 1/2 MARATHON will be much better and I hope I'm feeling much better than today. I'll be a bit more comfortable with the 1/2 marathon now doing this race. Lets see how I feel tommorrow.

Something New

2008-08-29T09:13:00.004-04:00

Hey folks, well just wanted to post I'm going to attempt to do some running today, let see how it goes, feeling okay. A friend of my husbands friend, Vincent Roland Simone, has made a team to help out folks who have Alzhemiers and Parkinsons Disease. My father, as my blog buddies know, was diagnosed with Parkisons disease very recentely. I think after my 1/2 marathon, this will be my next mission... to help my dad. Here is his sites

http://www.myspace.com/10mountains10years
http://10mountains10years.blogspot.com/
http://www.youtube.com/theFotographer

Check them out they are very touching, his mother was diagnosed with Alzhemiers Disease and his father with Parkisons Disease, check out his websites (I'm probably should take some tips from this guy :D)

Feeling Better

2008-08-28T13:57:00.003-04:00

Well I feel pretty good considering they did that crazy CAT scan on me. Maybe all the doses of Predisone and Bendryll did the trick LOL. The stuff they gave me to drink and the dye, I have a pretty sever allergy too, but thank goodness for allergy medicines. Well I feel pretty good, I'm going to try a nice short 3 mile run tomorrow. One more day, than another 3 miler, than Monday is the 20K. Let see how I feel tomorrow morning.

Pain go Away!!!!!

2008-08-26T19:52:00.003-04:00

Well, my body yelled at me on Monday even though I took a break Sunday and Monday. I had this horrible back pain after taking Motrin for something else. Only on my right side, I'm hoping I don't have a gall stone or kidney stone. Not only does my back hurts, but so does my entire right side of my torso. Let see how the results and tests come out to be. Mean while I have to take it a bit easy, what a bummer :( I wanted to do my 20K on Monday. For now I'll walk around like slumped over a few days LOL. At least it will give me a bit of time to plan out my fundraiser a bit more for the Karaoke Night. I'm having it at this place in New Haven called the Playwright right down the street from Yale University. Great place!!!! I hope a lot of people come it's on September 11th, 2008 7-11 pm. *(A Day that no one will ever forget I use to live in Bronx, I remember watching every second on TV when the towers fell, a good friend of my husband died unfortunately. There was ash all over my car a week later from the buildings) Maybe we can have someone dedicate a song for everyone that day :D.

Well, think I'm going to do some biking if I can tomorrow. We will see. Probably need to do my green smoothie detox again, :D. I love my green smoothies.

Wow 48??? What month am I in???

2008-08-20T10:02:00.002-04:00

I can't believe I woke up to such a beautiful morning a bit cold for August but 48 degrees? I thought that August is suppose to be summer and one of the hottest months of the year? We've only had a few hot days, but so far the summer has been very nice. My poor blog buddies in Florida, wow I feel for you, Tropical Storm Fay doesn't want to leave :( and plus you all have had some hot weather this year. Wish you all were here to enjoy this great weather. Hope it's this nice on Labor Day.

Not to Bad

2008-08-16T09:47:00.002-04:00

Today I did a nice easy 7 mile run, very comfortable run. Only thing is I wanted to rack up my training this week and do a 10 miler. (if I'm lucky I'll put in the 3 miles later today we will see) Unfortunately I went a little backwards, hopefully next week coming up will be better week. I've been on antibotics that have been really taking alot of energy out of me and also not sitting so well with my stomach. But like I said, this run felt good, no struggling and very very comfortable this time and I remember to put both my inserts in my sneakers LOL. Again next week I have to aim for more training and better week. I'm already feeling a bit better than the last two (which this week I found out why). Glad to know I can do an easy 7 miler and be comfortable with it. Tommorrow I usually take the day off, maybe I'll go for a quick 3 or 4 mile run. :D. Let see what my body tells me. Need to eat more carbs (brown rice pasta and brown rice :( boy I really miss bread now more than ever) for energy and more veggies. Ate very light this week too which is bad. I really need to kick up a notch w/the training.

Blisters !!!

2008-08-10T13:58:00.002-04:00

I had a nice 7 mile run yesterday before my hard heavy hitting training this week. I struggle like no tommorrow. It was one of my group runs, but I ran out of gas so quick. My heart rate is always at a good rate never goes above 160. I can't figure it out... why am I so out of gas. This week was a bit crazy, so starting off a run taking motrin ahead of time isn't a good sign. Than after my run, I look at my foot.... a huge red blister. I never get them. I was kind of shocked, but it wasn't to bad. Than I realized, wait why is my insert sitting by the door. I ran with no sole or insert on my run. Man I must have been tired when I left the house. Not going to do that anymore. Today I don't feel sore just tired, I think my iron levels are in low again, really effects my performance alot. Even with run yesterday my average heart rate was 145, why I burnt out of gas way to quick (even my first mile) Let see how this week goes.

58 degrees

2008-08-08T08:25:00.002-04:00

Wow, I woke up I couldn't believe it, what a beautiful morning. 58 degrees what a difference from two weeks ago at 81 degrees the same time(6:00 am) . What a great run but gearing up for a 7 mile tommorrow(maybe more) after that the hard training really starts to gear up. I know my Florida relatives and bloggers I feel for you in the heat, I can't imagine how tough it is to train in that kind of weather. :( At least the weather is nice here, and my kids are starting school in a few short weeks. Wow, our summer flew. Goals next week on training:

Lots of core ( lots and lots)
upper body work
more miles to put in during the week.

Good News

2008-08-07T08:02:00.003-04:00

Well things look like they are slowly pulling together. Still a bit of a short fall, but It's not as bad as I thought it was going to be. (still getting donations in by mail) I found out that someone from my husbands job is doing the ING full Marathon in October. (which is so cool)

I feel in my heart if God wants me to do this race, I'll know that things will work out. I'm trying to plan a bigger event which will really help me pull in most of the money for the fundraising. I would like to also decide in the next day or so to do either a 20K on labor day or 5K. The 20K would be a nice practice run for my 1/2 in October.

Thank you to everyone who has been incredibly supportive to me, I could not do this with out you all.

Another Day

2008-08-05T10:22:00.003-04:00

Well today, I decided to take a bit of break of the running and do some core, it went well. I feel like I've been a bit lacking lately on the core, need to do a bit more

Well to all my blog buddies not to sure If I can stay with TNT, I've roughly raised $200, & $100 on my own which I have contributed, but I needed $560 (diff of $260) by the 8th, it doesn't look like I'll beable to reach that in 3 days. We will see how it works out, although I'm a bit disappointed, I have to say I have alot of wonderful supporters. If I recommit with TNT I have to come up with the difference which I just don't have right now, I was going to plan a karoke night and a fundraiser all together but I'll find out in the next few days.

To all the folks that have donated always remember that this has gone to a great cause. I'm still making these ribbons to take with me for all those I'm doing this for. All in all that's okay, my love for my family and running and the good Lord in Heaven has and will not changed. I'll let everyone know how it goes. Thanks for you support and your encouragement you all are great. Blog to all soon :D.

WOW MY FIRST EVER 10.5 MILES

2008-08-02T09:09:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it it was my first 10.5 miles ever, it was a little tough not knowing the course and some hills, but I can't believe it. I ran with my mentor from team in training his name is Fred. Very supportive and waited for me alot :D. It went okay, I wish I could have gotten more sleep. I actually sleep horrible last night, so having a 10.5 mile fun on almost not sleep is to me amazing. But not to far away from my 13 mile goal. 20 miles this week as well yippee. Talking about making strides, but again, I'm always a bit slow. I know I'll get better as it time goes by, but I run because I love it. I never thought 2 years ago I would ever get to this point, after all the struggling I've gone through with my health, I can't believe I'm here. Wow. All because a big sister Chris, Shirley, and alot of great bloggers with their encouraging words. Thanks everyone your awesome. :D

Workouts

2008-07-31T10:13:00.002-04:00

I always think I'm not working out enough. Although sometimes I push myself, I still feel that way. Today I should have did my run early, it is extremely hot and humid. Although I'm planning a long run on Saturday, I don't like running the day before although 4 mile runs seem pretty comfortable right now. Maybe on Friday I'll do a quick 1.5 with some biking. Today I want to work on my core, and hopefully I'll get a chance to hop in my pool too. I'm kind of bummed I haven't been able to get the work out this week I would like, I'm so limited during the week to put the time in I wake up a 4:45 am to just to get out of the house ontime to do a run. I have come a long way :D compared to when I started end of May and some set backs in June. Hopefully next week will be a better week of working out, although they said we have another heat wave in the 90's starting Monday.. YUK. (humid too)When my boys start school, I can do my run a little later around 9:00 a.m. which I prefer more. (only because it's dark at 5:00 am still) maybe I'll beable to sleep in for an hour. Hee Hee

Great Weekend

2008-07-28T09:46:00.002-04:00

Well I did a 4 mile run today, slower than normal, it could have been no morning coffee... I can't live without a cup hee hee. I also have been using my Heart Rate Monitor... I love it, so excited I have it and it's incredibly helpful. This weekend was alot alot of fun. I met some of the folks from Team in Training. They where very supportive and helpful. I really hope this all works out, we will see how this weekends fundraiser goes. Anyway to make a long story short, there was a beautiful trail we ran through. They have really fixed it up alot since I've been there 4 years ago. I have to take some pictures and make sure I post them. Tommorrow hopefully, anyway, we also went to a local baseball game (The Bluefish) minor league team here on Sunday in my town. It was alot of fun, we ended getting box seats which was nice, since it was kind of a rainy day yesterday. The game went 6 innings than they had to call the game off, :( First time in a box office seat, a waitress to bring us food and a air conditioned room with a TV. If you wanted to watch the game, open the door and sit outside. The only thing the food was a fortune. $12 for a six pack of canned soda LOL and I'm not going to even tell you how much money food was. Way Way to expensive. But we had a terrific time spending time with my hubbys sisters and their kids.

In Memory Of and In Honor Of Ribbons

2008-07-20T15:58:00.007-04:00

Well, Chris gave me a great idea, and I think I should do this because it means that much to me. As you all know I'm running with TNT for Leukemia Lymphoma Society the ING 1/2 marathon. I figured since it's going to be my first half marathon, I can dedicate the run for family, friends, and blog buddies. I will make a ribbons with their names for anyone who would like for me to run in Honor of them and in Memory take it with me. You can visit my TNT LLS webpage and you can e-mail me their names. .I have Five names, one of who my honoring teammate which you can check out on my TNT webpage and on the blog. Also I have put back all my Favorite Celiac Websites back on my blog, I hope they may help folks have a hard time with Celiac Disease and with any questions they may have with anything.

Mixing it Up

2008-07-18T14:48:00.003-04:00

This morning I did some biking before I did my run. It was a great warm up before I did my run, but I really felt the difference. The biking seemed a bit tougher but I used different muscles, when I ran, I felt the difference in my legs muscles. It was a quick great work out, I wish I had more time for myself to do a bike ride and a run in the morning. My run went well too, It felt great and very comfortable. Just miss those tough kick butt workouts that you feel great. (thats' why I miss Tae Kwon Do so much) I worked out 6 day's a week 3 hours a day.. and it got me a 2 silver metals for NJ State and a ticket to the Nationals, way back in the day LOL. Tommorrow will be another day.. MY LONG RUN.... we will see if I can go for 9.

1/2 Way

2008-07-12T12:48:00.001-04:00

Today was a okay day, I did my first long run of 8 miles.... I can't believe it. I haven't ran 8 miles in 5 years. My run was a bit tough, my legs felt extremely heavy right from the start of my run but really didn't feel warmed up until about my 2nd mile, but I was able to do without stopping. I ran slow but I didn't stop. Hopefully my other crosstraining during the week will beable to help me build other muscles and I'll be working on my shorter runs during the week. Well anyway, it was a good day, only 5 miles away from the 1/2 marathon. Not so bad... I will be ready by Oct for sure. That's it for today, hopefully my next long run will be better

ING DIRECT Hartford 1/2 MARATHON FOR LLS

2008-07-10T09:16:00.000-04:00

Well, here it is folks, my first 1/2 marathon in October 12. I'm doing this to raise money for the Leukemia Lymphona Society Team in Training. I huge part of me doing this is for my family. Chris knows that we've had several members of our family who have had Leukemia, so this would mean a whole lot to me. If you all can please visit my site http://pages.teamintraining.org/ct/hartford08/tpena or foward my site to other you all know it would be extremely helpful. I'm really excited, I have alot of work to do. I have been feeling a bit better since I've double up on my iron supplements (ordered by the doctor) not so tired. Running first thing at 5:15 am in the morning is a little rough, but needs to get done if I want to train. I will start training with the Team in Training if I can find someone a bit closer w/ a better schedule. Well Thank everyone I'll give you all the head up on how things are coming along.

A New Toy

2008-07-07T08:43:00.000-04:00

Well, I finally got a bike..... Now since it's been like 16 years or so since I've been on one this is going to be fun. I figured I start to bike for my cross training because I know that would probably help me on my running. I also took Shirley's advise, I'm going to work on the abs and arms, (No Pain No Gain yippee) Well, hope this will improve my energy and time. We will see how the bike works out.

New Week

2008-07-01T19:40:00.000-04:00

Well, I took a few days, off but seems like I'm back in a routine again. We will see how I hold up. I need to get my iron levels checked again, it doesn't seem that my iron, vitamin D, and A supplements are enough for me. After my good workouts, the next day I drag so much, I don't even want to get out of bed. I know that running depletes iron, but wow, never though it would do that. I've been going backwards not forwards. I'm struggling more and more w/my time and I wear out too quickly. Hopefully I can get to see a doctor this week, I shouldn't be feeling this tired. Tommorrow I will hopefully do at least 3 to 4 miles.(gonna try to take my time and not push myself too much. VERY BIG NEWS: I just got and e-mail from one of the training coordinators, I joined a group that does runs for raise money for Leukemia and Lyphoma. If folks don't already know, I've had 3 family members w/leukemia and one who had both, unfortunately they are not with us today. So this would mean alot to me. I'm hoping I can train with them as well. They are doing a 1/2 marathon in Hartford in October. So I will keep you up to date. One thing at a time, first my health.... This is going to be fun, interesting, and for a great cause. I'll keep you all informed. Im crossing my fingers on tommorrows run.

Backwards

2008-06-26T15:34:00.000-04:00

Well, I feel a little bit bummed out, I haven't been able to run as much as I have liked the last week and 1/2 due to our family loss. But today I put in a decent run, I felt comfortable with it, I'm hoping I can start picking up my speed just a bit. I pace myself and I feel I can go forever, I probably would have been able to do a 7 mile run but my time was limited today. I run really slow, but I can pace myself and keep myself at that pace. I've been a bit tired because I'm not getting enough sleep plus, I feel like I'm not getting any more energy even though I'm taking my iron pills. Sometimes they make me feel more tired. Well we will have to look into my next goal, I only have a picure of my shirt and my race number, but hopefully I'll beable to put up some pictures of the family soon. I haven't really had to much time to do anything lately. Well Thanks all for your support, I'm sure when this is all over that I'll have a little more time to do more physical activity outside.

MY BIG 5K the Stratton-Faxon Fairfield Road Race

2008-06-22T13:20:00.000-04:00

Well I did it my first race, yippeee. I was excited but very nervous and didn't sleep well at all last night yuk. I was one of the stragglers but at least I was able to complete a goal. My time was 38:13 sec, I hopefully beable to post the results w/my some pics of my number and shirt this week. Well I'm slow but getting there but out of all my work outs, this was a good time for me. I tried pacing myself but everyone ran past me hee hee. Than at the end, me and another couple were running real hard to finish, the girl, had to stop, she couldn't push herself near the end. It made me feel great although it was tough I felt great to beable to push myself at the end. I hope next year I can do the 1/2 marathon. They had over 3200 people at this race. I'm more of a long distances pace runner than a speed runner, but hopefully I can get some interval training in to help me on my time. I'll keep everyone updated on my next race.

Very Sad News

2008-06-21T09:28:00.000-04:00

Well, my husband I had received some terrible news, his father passed away. I know finding out before my first race is terrible but we really can't do anything until Monday anyway. It's very sad to here of his passing, my boys never really got to know him, if you all can please pray for his family as they get through this hard time in their lives. It was very shocking news. Well Sunday I should still beable to do the race, I can dedicate it to him.

Getting Nervous

2008-06-13T14:20:00.000-04:00

Well, I'm feeling a bit better since I've been making the effort to get some iron in me. I also found out my levels of A & D are low as well. My ND hooked me up with some potent stuff for myself and my kids for their allergies as well as some tips because of their outside allergies as well as their food allergies. Well my 5K is about roughly a week away and I'm getting very excited. I hopefully will beable to have someone to at least join me, not so much run but in regards to support. Im running a very comfortable 3.2 miles but, my foot really bothered me today especially near the end of my run. I used some new sneakers the past few weeks to break them in. Im not too sure if they could be the inserts. I had to give my good ones to my son (we wear the same size shoe) he lost one. Of course being the mom I am, my kids come first. I have to pick up some new inserts this week and use the sneakers I'm more comfortable with. My spead felt much quicker especially my first mile. I forgot to check my time of course when I got back, but I'm improving.

I've also been thinking alot about all the folks in the Mid West that has been suffering from these devistating storms and floods. I wish, if I could, do a fund raiser, but I don't even know where to start. A running fund raiser would be alot of fun. If you all have some suggestions, please forward them my way. I would love to do something for all those that have lost everything they had.

Hot One

2008-06-09T12:20:00.001-04:00

Boy today was rough I though I was going to beable to do an easy 3 to 4 mile run, but ended up only being 1.5 run and 2 miles walk. After running 1.5 I felt pretty good but when I started getting heart palipitations I decided it was time to stop and walk the rest. It was brutal, at 10 am in the morning it was already 82 degrees. I figured I'd wait until the end of the week before everything cools down before I do my longer run. If it wasn't for my dentist and my morning running around I could have put in my run much ealier. I also found out that sweating can lower your iron levels even more. So, I've been trying very hard to bring up my levels with an iron supplement (not sulfur based) which has been making me feel more tired and giving me headaches???? I don't understand that one. Red meat is out of the question unless it's organic (very expensive) I reacted so bad the last time I had it. (must be all the hormones and additives) It started closing up my throat. So, I found and alternative... Dark Turkey meat has the same as beef. Finally something I can eat besides veggies 3 to 4 times a day. Well today's high tempature is going to be a good old 95 degrees and tommorrow even hotter. So, anyone from down south I definitely know how you feel now running in hot humid weather...(God Bless You All)

Bad News

2008-06-06T15:20:00.000-04:00

Well, I had a follow up visit with my doctor from roughly a month and a half. I got some results on my bloodwork. Well, my iron levels are low to the point where it's not good and it can put a strain on my heart and my body (borderline getting a blood transfusion). I also found out my A and D levels are pretty low as well. The good news was my hormones and thyroid where doing well, but I know that being anemic and running is gonna be a little tough on my heart. So, I need to bring up my levels which is going to be very tough for me. I'm highly allergic to sulfur, anything I eat or take that turns into Sulfur dioxide ( I can't even have onions, garlic or pork) I can not have and most iron supplements because are sulfur based. It's been a bit of a struggle for the last few years, but now I know with running and training it's critical it get my iron levels up so I don't strain my heart. If anyone has any suggestions besides the Floridex (which I've tried) I can get all the help I can get. Well wish me luck, I figured I rest today and do a run tommorrow, wish me luck.

A Zoo Trip

2008-06-05T15:21:00.001-04:00

My youngest sons first grade class went to the zoo today and I had the opportunity to chaperon. It was a lot of walking from 10:00 am to 1:15 which wasn't the so bad, but more stressful trying to keep an eye on them. (they kind of all blended in) Every school must have had the same idea to go to the zoo today LOL. It was a ton of fun and the kids wore all the parents out. Great news, I registered for my first 5 K on June 22. I'm excited and nervous but I can't wait until next year to do the 1/2 marathon.

Summer

2008-06-03T12:44:00.000-04:00

Well summer is starting to hit, and now I know what it's like running on a warm day. I seem to run much better early morning (6 am) Today I ran 3.2 and walked 1.6. I figured I would walk my first 1.5 to warm up and finish with running 3.2 (I would have liked to run 4 miles) it went pretty well, but lately I've been extremely tired. Running on a warm day makes things very different and I usually make sure I bring my water with me now more than before.(it will be in the 90's by Friday) Plus, lately my iron levels must be low, I tend to cramp more when my anemia is worse. I would have to say. I'm glad my run worked out, it was a tough but I ran the whole 3.2 miles. I'm super excited about the 5K coming up, it will be a very comfortable run.

Another 5K

2008-05-30T18:02:00.000-04:00

Well I found another 5K run at the end of this month on the 22nd. Plus they are doing a 1/2 marathon. I think I'm going to do the 5K. I still need more training for the 1/2 marathon before I run it. I'm going to go for it. Today when I worked out I was pretty sore and tired, just need a day off of some good rest. I didn't realize how much a good cardio work out would kick my butt.

almost 1/2 way there

2008-05-28T12:06:00.000-04:00

This week I'm aiming for either a 6 or 7 miles run. I'm doing a comfortable 4 mile and now that I have better music to keep my beat on my mp3 player (Thank Chris for you help) What a difference it makes. Friday should be the day, trying for earlier run if I don't have to run around too much. Still trying to figure out how to set up my blog a little better and my goal is to do more other training besides running. Tomorrow I'm doing cardio, abs and arms. (thinking of getting into biking as well)

Great Run

2008-05-25T19:41:00.000-04:00

I had a great little over a 5 miles run today. I felt good, my first mile and 1/2 was tough but than I felt so like I could keep a pace and felt like I could have went another mile today. Wow what a difference one day makes. Tommorrow light work out some home work out stuff of abs and arms and legs, and plenty for stretching. 5 miles looks like it's going to be an average run. My big run by the end of next week will hopefully be a 6.5 or 7. We will see. (wow, didn't think I'd be going this far so soon :D)

Okay Day

2008-05-24T19:21:00.001-04:00

Today was a little rough I did my 3.2 mile run, but I was really tired. Today's weather was just beautiful. The last few day's have been crazy for me and very disappointed I haven't been able to do any type of workout.(a lot of running around) Well, I've been a bit tired and my mouth has been bugging me really bad from my dental work. (to the point where pain killers aren't helping much) so my dentist put me on an antibiotic. I'm hoping it won't effect me tomorrow, going to do my big run of 5 miles. I know sometimes they can wipe you out. I plan to get a good nights rest, it's gonna be a big work out. :D

Health

2008-05-21T10:28:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone and thank you for all your comments and support. Chris knows of what a struggle it's been for me physically the last few years. Running has helped me take better care of myself lately and keep my hope of running that marathon I've always wanted to do. Knowing I have Celiac Disease (allergy to most grains for accept of corn, rice) changed my life. I may have found I have other food allergies, but I'm not sick like I use too and I don't ache as bad as I use too. My thyroid disease doesn't help either, but I do alot of research and having a very strick diet, helps alot. Although today, I think I have a cold. (got it from my son) LOL I've had alot of ups and downs, I think we all do, I went from running 28 miles a week to none. (Do to surgery on my right foot) (Very Bad) But I'm back at it, and knowing I have to start slowly to get back in the routine. My foot hates me sometimes but it's to be expected. I hope that if anyone has questions about health, I hope Im here to help. When you don't feel good and stressed out, it's time you need to think of taking care of you for a little bit a few times a week. For the first time, my husband told me that I'm finally looking so much better. I don't look tired or stressed out like I use too or my face turning red for no reason or hear me complain about how much I ache so bad I don't want to get up and out. I feel great for the first time in years, it's been years. I have Celiac Disease but it's changed my life for the better finding out I have it. Since I started running again, I'm not to sure how much weight I've lost but I know I've lost quite a bit. Took about a 3 weeks to notice, but it's working. :D yippeee

So, make sure to all out there do your research and someone who is willing to listen (like a good doctor)

Lesson I learned from and ND. (Natural fiber takes toxins out of our body key veggie spinach and dark greens )

TIPS ON MY DIET THAT I USE
I eat veggies w/fruit 3 to 4 times a day sometimes more. veggies veggies veggies w/lots of protein , fish, chicken and certain nuts.

The only carbs I eat are cooked basamati brown rice. w/dinner only.
sometimes my snacks my be a few organic corn chips only a few

(IM CRAZY BUT FEEL GREAT)

Alot of Walking

2008-05-20T15:30:00.000-04:00

Today was a nice day, I had a tough start on getting my tail outside to do my workout, but I finally got out. Well I figured I start and take it easy today and walked my first 1.5 mile than ran the 2nd part, very smooth, came home, stretched and took a shower and out I was again to the food store. (It's close but I walked) Than as soon as I came home, I get a phone call that I needed to go to the school for my son. ( 1.5 miles away ) So, off again I went, I ended doing a total of 6.4 miles today haa haa got more than I bargined for today. Oh Well it was a good work out hee hee, I wish most of it was running LOL. But Saturday hopefully will be my big run, tommorrow I plan to go to the gym with my girlfriend and work on abs and arms. Need to get to ready :D.

A New Week

2008-05-19T14:41:00.000-04:00

Well today I still did my 3 miles run, kind of slow but it felt good since I haven't ran since Saturday. I was able to do the whole run and felt pretty comfortable. I really need to start working on my timing. It was little tough since today I had gum surgery and a temp crown put in my mouth. Not fun. I have problems with the Novocain they use since Im allergic to sulfites, they had to use another kind that doesn't last as long. Needless to say, he gave me alot of anastetic. Yes novocaine for dental work has sulfites, they use it to preserve the epinephrine in it. I react horrible when I receive normal novocain, I shake bad and my heart pounds and I get a horrible headache. Well, good news it was a great run and I'm gearing up for a big run this week, over 5 miles. Let see how well I do. My 3 mile took me roughly 40 min or so, long, but it felt good. :D timing will get better I'm sure. Tommorrow will be a better day.

Thank You :D

2008-05-17T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone who has been responding to my blog, thank you so much for all the encouragement, I was unfortunately unable to do the 5K walk/run race, do to certain circumstances but that's okay, I ran it all by myself. LOL. It was pretty comfortable for me but I enjoyed it alot. The weather has just been beautiful here. In the 60's. Thank you Susan and Shirely for your comments, I am very excited and motivated. I have decided that I will be posting on my blog certain tips on food. Chris is pretty familiar with my diet and my circumstances. I was diagnost with Celiac Disease and also a found out im very allergic to sulfites. The Celiac Disease was something I could have lived with, but the sulfites and Celiac together are extremely tough. So my diet is extremely limited. I will post on the side of my blog some new ideas of food if you ladies would like to try them. Well later this week I will try a 5.4 so wish me luck I will let you know my progress.

A Crazy Day

2008-05-14T14:18:00.000-04:00

Well today didn't work out as I had planned but, I was still able to put in my work out of 2.6 mile run. It took me awhile, my first mile was the toughest (mostly up hill) after that it was a breeze. Although it took me 32 minutes which for me was long, I had a rough morning. I needed to get my blood work done this morning on a fast, so when I go there first thing, there was a bit of a problem and I ended up waiting an entire hour before they were able to withdraw my blood. Needless to say being on a fast and not be able to take my medicine until after my blood work wasn't bad a enough I had to wait an hour at least after that before I could eat because of the medication. But I finally got out for my run at 1:00 which is late and warm. But it wasn't as bad as I thought. Well this Saturday there is a 5K walk run which I was thinking of doing. Hopefully the weather will be nice and I'll beable to join in. It's been kind of nasty weather here and a little colder than I want it to be. But as long as it's not raining I should be okay. The high tempature is only going to be 61 on Saturday which the low will be in the 40's. Tommorrow I will taking a day off, I have a ton of stuff to catch up on hopefully I will beable to work on abs. Well anyway get back to you on my next day of running, and hopefully about Saturday.

First Month of Training

2008-05-13T15:59:00.000-04:00

Today, I finally decided I needed to start recording my training on my running. So far it's been roughly 3 weeks since I've started my first part, and it feels great. Today I did a nice easy run of 3.4 miles. I ran 1.7 and walked the rest because the gym on Monday's seem to take alot from me. I pretty much work on my abs and arms on Monday's and Tuesday as well as some cardio at the gym, but all the other day's I'm pretty much out running my normal course around the neighborhood. It was a little tough getting motivated, but I got out there did something today, tommorrow is my big run of the week which I usually do at least once a week. Driving around has helped me record my distances, so I'm trying to decide a run of 5.1 or 4.3. I'd probably be more comfortable doing a 4.3 mile run tommorrow since 3.4 seems to pretty comfortable for me. The only thing is tommorrow I have to fast early for blood work, so I'm really hopeing it won't be a damper on my run. So, hopefully I will be prepared my October, I've taken some advice from Christina on regards to getting some running socks and I purchased a decent pair of arch supports for my sneakers. Boy what a difference that made. Well anyway, I will record hopefully my times and miledge daily, they won't be super accurate but pretty close. Thanks to Christina for all the encouragement you have given me. There is no excuse now why I can't do this.