Congrats everyone!

I just wanted to tell you all what a wonderful experience this entire journey has been. Yes, I am sore tonight but I feel good, like I did something for me. My favorite part of the marathon was getting to know some of you better, building and strengthening friendships that I need in my life. Thank you all for that. Thanks for the words of encouragement, not only on the blog but at church, in the store, at the school...it has been great. I feel like I've worked so hard to get to this point that I don't want to quit running. I think we should do a triathalon next!! Hope you all sleep well and don't wake up with sore legs.

Mindy

What a race!

Wow - we did it! I am so pleased with everyone. Wasn't this race a great way to celebrate all our weeks of hard, dedicated work? I feel such a sense of accomplishment. I love the exhausted feeling of knowing you gave something your absolute all and the tiredness after actually feels good. That probably sounds weird, but I do feel happy, exhausted, thrilled and a little sore all at the same time. I think we should do it again. Well, maybe not next week or anything, but I definitely want to keep running and improving my time and race again in the near future.

Havest Hills Runners, you rock!!!

Keep up the great work.

Niki

AMAZING!

You ladies are simply amazing! Thank you so much for your support and the individual strength each of you demonstrated. What an inspiration you are!!!

WE DID IT!!!!! :-)

(Anyone else a little sore?)

The time has come...

... Let's do it!

Lets Do This!

Hi Everyone
Just want to say Good luck tomorrow! I am so proud to be apart of this group! Everyone has contributed so much inspiration and encouraging words. Thanks for everything, The training journey has been a learning experience and I look forward to next year! Happy Marathon.

THIS IS IT!!!

Well, ladies, this is what we've been training for!
I am so excited...and nervous, too. Every time I think about the race I get butterflies!! We've worked hard and now our hard work should pay off.
Hats off to you all who have struggled with injuries! That's tough, but you keep going. I'm very impressed.
I look forward to a nice break following the race. I'm ready for some easy runs.
Thanks to all who have participated in the blog. You've inspired me and kept me motivated. This has been a blast! Also, thanks to Deanna and Niki. I couldn't do the workouts without you ladies!!! The get-to-gethers have been great. We should continue those!
Anybody up for trying a marathon? I think I would like to. Wouldn't this be the best time? I'm halfway there, right? I will make my final decision on that after the completion of this race!!
Good luck ladies!!!
See you Saturday!
Deena

Getting ready for race day!

Hi ladies,

It was fun to see those who came to the girl's night out pasta party! We missed you who were not there.

Can you believe the big day is almost here? I am so excited!

Naturally, at the party we were discussing the race. We talked about carb loading. I didn't exactly know what carb loading was and I haven't done any more research on it, but my husband's friend is an avid runner and has run many, many marathons, halfs, triatholons, etc. His opinion is qualified in my opinion. If you want more facts, google carb loading or go to Hal Higdon's web site or Runner's World, etc. Anyway...here are some things he suggested:

* Eat light this week.
* Eat pasta and healthy carbs the night before the race (you don't need to eat differently than you normally would)
* Think about not eating excessive amounts of fibrous foods (I think you can figure out why!!)
* The first 2-3 miles of the race, go slower than you think you should so you have enough energy to finish strong and feel good.
* Have a great time!!!! (He didn't say that, I put that in)

Good luck to all!
Niki

Brrrrr!

Enough already! I am SO ready for the warm weather...I dream of it at night! I finally got the all clear from the doc. I am having to run/walk, which has been rather disappointing, but at this point I am just happy I still get to participate.

I ran/walked 8 miles tonight and it felt really good. It was fun to see Mindy out on the path, and helped me remember I'm not in this alone! My mental hurdle still seems to be the second mile, and the physical hurdle is my sixth mile. However, today, I seemed to get through it quite well, running my entire 6th and 7th mile. Ironically, fate was with me tonight. As I started my 6th mile my iPod started the Doors song "Break on through...to the other side...Break on through...to the other side" It was surprisingly motivating!

This cold air hurts my chest and lungs, so I'm praying for some warmth next weekend. (Please pray with me) I seem OK while I'm running, but about 5 minutes after I finish I really feel it.

I am grateful for this opportunity, and have learned a ton about myself during this process. I want to thank those who helped put this together. A big 'Shout Out' to Sabina, who mentioned the race originally, what a trend-setter you are woman! "Holla!"

Girls Night

On a happier note, lets do our pasta party on Friday the 11th. 6:30pm. my place, just bring your favorite pasta dish or pasta salad or salad! We need dessert, who wants that assignment?! looking forward to visiting and making plans for race day.

Shin splint Emergency!

Ok, so I don't know if I have officially shin splints, but I ran my 10 miles Saturday, took Sunday and Monday off . then started running Tuesday morning and my left shin is having some soreness, I knew I couldn't keep running on it, I have just been walking this week and doing lots of stretching. so any advice, any experiences to share? am I done for? Can I still run my 1/2 marathon? I 'm feeling panicked!

Time to head outside!

Hey all you great honey runners,

If you haven't been running outside because of the cold weather, perhaps the time has come. I am by no means an expert on running, but I have been doing some reading. From what I have read, for longer distances like 1/2 marathons and marathons, our bodies need to adjust from the softer running surface of treadmills and tracks to pounding it out on the hard roads. Good luck to us all - the race is almost here! We are going to have a blast.

Happy running,

Niki

I AM WOMAN, HEAR ME ROAR!!

Wow! what a great run this morning! today i hit my 10 miler! it was amazing and long, but i was feeling good. I felt sick around 6 miles and took some power gel, that helped me to get rid of the sick tum feeling. I am so proud and excited for everyone doing their long runs and pushing your abilities! who knew we could do all this! We are strong women! I am looking forward to our race in just a couple weeks. Does anyone know if we need to pick up our packets for the race? Do you know what time we want to be at the race, on running day? Happy Running!

GIRLS NIGHT!

HI Everyone.
wow 3 weeks in counting! I am so proud to be apart of this group, you all are amazing women! It would be great to spend an evening with you all before the big day! I would love to have girls nite here on April 11 or 12. whatever works for the majority. since the nite before is the Eq dinner. let me know what night works best for you.

shirt logo

ok, that last logo was a quick idea...this is more of what I had in mind... I actually just wanted the letttering and lines on the front, with the flowers starting on the bottom of the back of the shirt. I'm betting it would cost more to print on both the front and the back, so i combined the two. PLEASE let me know if you do not like this style. I will not be offended in the slightest. Here is another copy of the first draft, feel free to say which one you prefer.

T-shirts

Hi everyone! It sounds like things are going pretty well for everyone. I agree with all of you, the long runs are getting harder. It's not as fun when it takes you 2+ hours to do your run. I am leaving for my cruise on Friday and am worried that I will not be able to keep up with the running while I am on vacation. I will do my best.
We can order the shirts whenever we are ready. I did get a sample shirt if anyone wants to see it. Somebody asked me if they were see through or not, the one I have is white and it is a little see through but not bad. The shirts come in womens sizes and I would say they run on the small side. The size she gave me was a large and I would want an X-large just so it wouldn't be quite so form fitting. I hope that helps figure out sizes. If anyone wants to try on the large or see it just let me know. I think we decided on white??? And I think we all liked Sherian's design. With all of that we can go forward. I need to hear from each of you within the next couple of days so we can get them ordered and have them here in time for the marathon. The cost will be $15.00. We don't have to pay until they get here so all I need is your name and your size. Either e-mail them to me or call me at home 768-2415 and let me know.
Sherian - can you e-mail me a copy of the logo you did. Does an XP format sound right? I think that's what my sister-in-law said she would need (I am not computer literate when it comes to stuff like that). Anyway, sent it to my e-mail Mindyloohoo@hotmail.com.

Mindy

Wow, it's been a long time!

I'm glad to finally sit down and write! Life just got away from me and well, here I am now. It has been so much fun to train for this race and I am getting excited for the big day. As far as a girl's night out - someone other than me will have to host and plan it. I would love to come if I can. Someone throw out a date, and we'll go from there. Also, the night before our race both Elder's Quorums are having a big combined couple party. Since my husband is heavily involved in EQ, I can't skip it!!! He promises that there will be plenty of pasta. So, I plan on loading up on carbs at the EQ party. I think we need a post-race party with lots of ice cream and other yummy desserts. It's ok to splurge on desserts and then I can really get back on the stick. I've gained 5 pounds. How did that happen? I don't know, but I am working on it.

Happy running!
Niki

Great Run Today!

Today, I joined the ladies down at the legacy center, it was my first time out of my house since November! So, I was nervous, it was difficult to find my pace, I actually ran slower without the pace of the treadmill, good to know! I ran 7 miles! it felt great and I enjoyed being with other runners, it was motivating! Deanna also joined us, it was great to get to know her a little better.
so.. IS IT TIME TO ORDER OUR T-SHIRTS?
WHEN CAN WE GET TOGETHER FOR GIRLS NITE?
Leslie

Hi Everyone!
I am so ready to get outside for my runs! I think that will help me with my boredom on the treadmill. I'm not willing to run with the die hards at 6am! but is anyone interested in running mornings? for sure I want some friends on sat. mornings 7 or 8 am. for my long runs. The Jordan pkway is calling!

Loving the light weeks

I didn't realize how important the light workout weeks would be when I started training. I thought I could continue with the training to get faster. Now I actually look forward to them. Last week was one of those weeks. It was fabulous!! The easy week makes it easier to continue with the training the following week.

I am doing my longest run yet tomorrow--10 miles. My plan is to try some of the gel during my run. I'll admit taking that stuff makes me nervous. (That's why I'm practicing with it.) I've never had it before, so I'm not sure how my body will react. I hope I don't puke!! (Sorry to those I am running with if I do!) :) Thanks for the questions and answers Leslie and Amber. We'll see how it goes!

If you'd like to join us tomorrow, we'll be leaving at 6:00 am. Let us know if you're coming so we don't miss you!!
Good luck to all on your long run!!
Deena

I am so sick of the treadmill. Because of my schedule, I have a really hard time getting out on the road and I'm starting to miss it a bit. As my miles increase, my treadmill boredom increases as well. Today I did 8 miles on the treadmill and that is just too much. And, I'm a bit worried because last weekend I went out to the parkway planning to do 9 miles. It is the first time I had been on the road in a long time. It did not go well. I ended up quitting at 7 miles because I could hardly breathe. Apparently 7 road miles are a lot harder then 7 treadmill miles. Hopefully I can start getting out on the road again soon.

Leslie - I did take some carbs when I was training for my marathon. I took usually took a Power Bar Gel at about 6 or 7 miles and then something every 3 miles after that. If you don't like the texture of the gels, you can try Sport Beans which are easier to get down or I also like Luna Sport Moons. You can find them at any running store or even at WalMart (although they will have a lot fewer flavors). Training for a half marathon, they really aren't as necessary, but you may want to practice taking something along the way because they are helpful and most half-marathons pass out something at about the halfway mark. And, you don't want to try anything during the race that you haven't tried during training. Also, don't be afraid to carb load the night before you do your long runs. While training for my marathon, my husband knew that on Friday night we were having pasta. 8 miles is a long way to run and so there is nothing wrong with giving your body the energy it needs to do it. Amber

One word for last week...

BLAH! Pretty much sums that up!

Hit My 8 Miler!

Hi Everyone,
I am so proud writing and letting you know I ran 8 miles this weekend! It was awesome and in powering! I just had one little problem! I kept getting sick to my stomach after 6 miles, so I'd walk a little, drink water, keep running. till i was done. so, I'm asking for some advice from all, what do you do when running so many miles? Amber, I know you mentioned taking carbs every 3 miles after 6. can you tell my all that again and where to shop? also how much water Am I to be drinking daily? 1-2 gallons?
let me know. Leslie

Running With Angels

Hi Ya'll
How's everyones running going? What mileage will you be at this weekend, looking for some company. I ran 7 last week and got so bored on the treadmill, anyone running 8 this week?
So , I've been wanting to tell you about a book I've been reading called Running With Angels by: Pamela H. Hansen, check out her website, anyways, she is a woman who always wanted to run a marathon, but had 100 pds in her way! its her inspirational story of her weight loss, taking control of her life, prepping for the race and running it. I 'm loving it. Every May she has a benefit run for Intermountain health care women center in Orem, the run is may 17 at Thanksgiving Point, 5k,(kids stuff right?!) I'm planning on running it, just to meet her. Anyone interested in joining me? Anyone read her inspiring book? HOpe to hear a shout out from you. keep running and keep me posted! love Leslie

Thanks for coming to girl's night out!

Hey all you wonderful runners,

Thanks for a great time at the girl's night out. For those of you not there, we missed you and we look forward to seeing you at next month's get together. I really enjoyed getting to know more of you.

Speaking of the next girl's night out, who wants to host the next one? If it's you, pick a date and post it to get the word out so we can arrange schedules to be there. If no one is able, or wants to host the next one I will - it's amazing what some motivation will do to transform my house!

Niki

Sorry I missed it!

I am totally bummed that I missed our girls night out...I guess that means we need to do it again, right? I want to hear how it went, and who showed, and if it helped to hear each others training stories.

My life has been very overwhelming and extremely crazy. Along with personal and family issues, I've pretty much had to start my training all over again. I guess not "all over" because I can run a bit faster and a bit farther than when I first started.

I got really bad shin splints. I could barely walk for about a week, and walking down stairs would bring me to my knees. I had to let them heal, and now I have to be careful with increasing my runs too quickly.

I hate to admit that this is the first physical limitation I have had from being overweight. I have lived in denial for quite a few years because I've always been able to workout and play sports, among other activies. I have about 60-70 lbs. to lose. (to put me at a healthy BMI) When I first got my shin splints, I was very discouraged. I considered dropping out of the race, losing weight, then trying again. I came to the conclusion that I can still participate and finish this 1/2 marathon. I may have to walk a good bit of the way, but I will still finish it!

I just wanted to thank all of you who have posted, the encouragement is great. I realize that we are all on different levels, but we share similar goals and are all working through challenges. I really was sad to miss the get-together, and hope to see you all soon!

Sherian

Saturday Run

We're doing a long run at 6:30 am tomorrow. (It's still cold out there, but I think we'll see significant improvement in temperature over the next few weeks.) I'm very excited. If you want to hook up with us we'll be running through the round about shortly after 6:30.

I love the T-shirts! Sign me up.

I would love to go for a run in Arizona. I would probably get too hot!!!

I haven't blogged lately, but I've been keeping tabs on all of you! Thanks for the motivation. I've needed it some days more than others this week. I did 2 workouts on the treadmill. And I survived!! Although it took me 3 hours to complete one workout. That is why I have to run early in the morning. There are too many interuptions during the day!

Looking forward to seeing you all tomorrow night!!

Deena

Hi ladies. Sorry it has been so long since I have posted. I am still running. But, I have to admit, I am struggling to find the motivation. Although, I have gained about 5 pounds in the last couple of months so if that isn't motivation enough then I don't know what is. I'm with those of you who are complaining about the cold. I'm mighty sick of it. Last week, I was so sick of it that my sister and I threw our kids in the car and took off for Arizona. We spent a week in the sun and I can't tell you how nice it was. I did two runs while I was there - a 7 miler and a 8 miler. It was so nice to go out and run in shorts and a t-shirt. Bring on Spring! Amber

T-shirts

T-shirt post was from me - Mindy

T-shirts

I forgot about the t-shirts, sorry. I talked to my sister-in-law tonight and she said the price would be under $15.00, probably a lot less but that was a safe number. She will have a definite price for me by the weekend. Do we want to go with the design that somebody posted (I think Sherian?) on the blog? I thought it looked great. Also, do we just want something on the front, or the front and the back? I think everybody voted for white so we'll all get the same color if that is okay. When I have a for sure price I will get the okay from each of you along with your sizes.

I have had a lot of fun doing this running stuff, especially getting to know some of you better. I love the friends I run with. Running isn't always easy and sometimes all I can think of is how glad I will be when that particular run is over but I alway feel so good afterwards, like I really accomplished something. It's kind of given me a goal/purpose that is just for me. Not my kids, not my husband, just ME! I've also started taking my kids to the pool and letting them swim while I run. Makes me feel less guilty about staying out later. I can still be a mom and do something for myself. Keep up the hard work everybody!!

Longest Run?

So, just a quick question... what is the longest training run you will be doing before the race? I'm a little nervous because my schedule has my longest run as 10 miles.

My long run this week was 6 miles. Wahoo! Truthfully, that is the longest distance I have ever run in one shot. I have been a little disappointed that I haven't dropped any weight. I mean, yes, my first goal is to run the half-marathon. But I thought I'd lose some pounds as a benefit of training. Blah! Anyhoo... I do feel good about keeping on track with my schedule. I am committed to doing this!

Girl's Night Out - Saturday, February 16th

I had my blog all ready to post and it went away somewhere so this is my second attempt. If it comes on twice, read this one - it's better!!! Niki


Ok ladies, where are you? I need your stories - your successes, your struggles and frustrations! I bet we all need each other to keep motivated and on track!

Since you are reading this blog - let your husbands watch the kids and treat yourself to a night out at my house at 6 p.m. on the above mentioned date. We will have so much fun. I am making taco soup and you all can bring whatever you like - veggies, fruit, salad, and PLEASE bring desserts! We can play games (bring any you like) or just talk and hang out.

I was also wondering if there is any information on the t-shirts? I like the design I saw earlier in the blog. Anyone know anything about pricing, what type of material? Can I help?

Anyway...My running is going well, although I am getting kind of tired of the cold and ice. I am not ready for summer, but I am ready for flowers and sunshine and birds. I haven't had to wrap my ankle in over a week. Hooray!!

Keep those stories coming and happy running, jogging, limping, shuffling, crawling or whatever else you are doing to prepare for this race! Niki

Not Liking the Cold!!

Hi all... I know that it has been AGES since I posted last, sorry about that. I had an awful week last week! I just didn't want to do it, so I only ran once. Blah! This week hasn't been much much better, because the cold is depressing me, and until our basement is finished, I have no treadmill. I was using Katrinas every night, but they moved on Saturday, so that is gone as well! Sorry about all the griping!
I was doing really well though, and I am now making a promise to you all that I will run every day for the rest of the week! And I will also post on Saturday night and let you know how it went!
I am so glad to hear that you are all doing so well, and also hating the cold as much as I am! Niki told me about the girls night, and it sounds like so much fun! Let's definately do it!!

I'm thinking warm thoughts!

The running has been going great. In fact, our speed runs are really helping us get a little faster. That is exciting. I do have to admit that I'm starting to get tired of the really cold weather. Thanks Deena and Deanna for being there in the mornings so I'll be sure and get out the door!

We do need a girls night soon. Week nights are out for me until mid-March, but I could host it here at my house (unless someone else wants to host it) on Friday or Saturday evening February 15 or 16th since my husband and boys will be out of town for the holiday. Let me know.

Keep up the great work on your training! Niki

How is everyone doing??

The blog has been pretty quiet lately... How is everyone doing? I did 5 miles today. Wahoo! I'm still sticking to my schedule and feeling great!

So, when are we having the Girls Night? I think sooner is better! I heard through the grapevine that Deena and Sherian were working out some details. Is that true?

Come on, girls. Drop us a line, even if it's just to say hello. I really enjoy the support of the blog.

I didn't have my best running week. I was scheduled to run 3 miles, a 5 mile tempo run and then a long run of 7 miles. I did the 3 and the 5 fine but I wimped out on the 7. My husband has been out of town so I had to run on the treadmill and I'm just not cut out to do 7 miles on the treadmill I guess. I actually quit at 3 miles. It was bad. So, I'm planning on doing my 7 miles on Monday morning instead. This week is my rest week so I only have runs of 3 miles planned. By the way, can I just tell you how much I love the rest week. I love taking a little break. I think it is important - not just physically, but mentally, to do a little less. Keep up the good work all. Amber

Finally figured it out!!

okay, three weeks into this and I'd just figured out how to run this blog thing. Yeah. I've read all of yours and love to hear how you're doing. Listening to the advice you're giving eachother is helping me a ton also. A few of us are still running at the Legacy Center on Tues. Thurs. and Saturdays. It's been fun to get together. I've been so nervous about being able to run over 2 miles. I hear all of you running 6 or 7 or 8 miles and sometimes thing "Gee, I'll never make that". Last night I decided to just get on the track and see how far I could go without stopping. I made it 5 miles and it felt so great. Tonight my legs are really hurting but that feels good too. I've always been committed to this but now I'm committed and I know I can do it. I'm lucky to have older kids so I can pretty much go when I want. FYI to you all, I have two babysitters here so if you need someone to come over and watch your kids for a while so you can go out for a run just let us know!
Mindy

We must all be extremely busy with our training!!

I think we need a ladies night out, too! Let's do it. We can do it at my house. Sounds fun! Besides, we need to plan our next big race!!! Anyone up for a relay?? Check out the info on the Wasatch Back relay. It's in June and we could really have a blast. We need twelve ladies. Check it out and let the blog know what you think!!
http://www.ragnarrelay.com/wasatchback/registration.php
Of course, we only have a couple weeks until we need to register. Think about it. You're already training for it!
Deena

We need a girl's night - soon!

Ok girls!! We need to plan a get-together! I think I know most of you, or at least who you are. I think it would be great if we could plan a night to get together and play games or just chat about running strategies or whatever. We could do a small pot-luck appetizer, fingerfood thing. What do you think? Also, would someone like to volunteer their home for the event? My house is little. No pressure - just thought I would throw out the suggestion...

Change of Plans

Due to some scheduling conflicts, the run tomorrow morning has been moved up to 5:30. Hope to see you there!

Weekend Run

Hi all. So, I'm planning on getting out again on Saturday morning for another 6-7 miler. I would love to have some company. I'm putting out a special call to those of you who are letting the cold weather keep you inside. Come join us. I promise you won't freeze. 6:00 am at the round-a-bout by our church? Hope to see you there. - Amber

Sick and tired of being sick and tired

So I don't mean to just complain here, but I am struggling BIG TIME! My kids have been sick since New Years and are not getting better. The vomitting subsides for 12-24 hours and then starts up again. Mike was home during the holidays, so I could just go. I have not gone running this week and I'm ready to scream! I'm worrid this will screw up my entire training. Will missing 2 of my 3 runs this week do me in?
I was so excited, and felt so good, and I'm really missing those feelings. My children only throw up at night (and all through the night). I cannot take them to the daycare, so I'm at a loss. Mike is home on the weekends, so Saturday I know I can get my run in. I'm not sure if I just skip the other 2 runs, or keep going and just be 2 runs behind. Any advise?

The worst is over??

This is my second week of training, after a 2 month break. Last week went pretty good, I got up to 4 1/2 miles without too much pain. I thought that I was going to get away without paying for that break. This morning I went running with Deena & Niki. We tried a faster pace for 3 miles. On the last mile I got a bad stomach cramp, I could barely keep running, and fell behind. (Don't worry I could still see Niki & Deena, and they came back for me) So I'm hoping that the worst is over. We'll see. I'm so excited about this blog & the 1/2 marathon. This is the kind of thing I need to keep going. It has been great going at 5:45am, (other than being so early), it is fun to be outside, it's a great way to start out the day, and very good company!

Deanna

1st official day of training

You are all such an inspiration to me! Thanks for posting your comments, struggles, questions, suggesstions, enthusiasm for running, successess, etc.

I completed my first official day of training. It felt great. Like Deena said, running outside is awesome - even in this cold weather (although I wasn't complaining about the 50 degree running weather last week in Arizona). It isn't for everyone, but it works well for me. Absolutely anyone is welcome to join us at the crazy hour of 5:45 a.m.!

My husband and I watched Nova program a while back and it was all about people training to run a marathon who had never run before. It was fasinating. Almost all of them were out of shape and overweight. All but one, due to injury, finished the race. Not everyone lost tons of weight and turned into a model. But what did happen was after three months, everyone's health inside their bodies dramatically improved. It was like a whole new person on the inside. By the end of the program I was rooting for every one of those runners to finish and I was so proud of them. On a more personal level, I am proud of each one of us for committing to work hard and reach a goal and the byproduct is better health emotionally, physically and spiritually.

Happy running!

my training (week 1) as a nursing mother

Well, I have struggled with the long runs the last couple weeks. The morning of our meeting I thought I had the flu, so I stayed home. It sounds like I missed a great run. Long and fast!! (I think that means I'm the slow one.) I'm okay with that. I'll just have to keep training. Well, it wasn't the flu, it was mastitis. It's all under control now. But last Saturday I had to cut my long run short. I was just under 4 miles. Chet needed me. He didn't need to eat, he just got trampled by his sister. I guess that's what happens when you leave your baby in your bed! Never fear, he's slept exclusively in his crib since. Thanks Deanna for coming back with me. So, Amber, Katrina, and Janet S... how was the run?

I love running outside. It is amazing how well you learn to adjust to the weather. We (me, Niki, Deanna) ran this morning. It was 20 degrees. It felt great. Other than the runny noses. We just wear extra layers, gloves, hats, and Niki even has a ski mask! We keep warm enough I guess! It is great to run with you ladies. Knowing there is someone outside waiting for me is enough motivation to get me out of bed to brave the cold. Feel free to join us. We are following the Smart Coach training program with the long runs on Saturday.

I agree with Lori. It's great hearing from you. It helps keep me motivated too. It's fun trying to keep up with all the posts and comments. Happy running.

Deena

It was a great week!

Hi Ladies! It's so fun to get on here and read everything! It's so nice to have so much support in my running.
I had such a great week this week! I had definate gotten out of running since October, and this is the first week that I have really gotten back into it! It feels so good to have my blood really pumping again. And I will admit that it's nice to not feel bad about eating 2 ice cream bars in one day, even if they are sugar free! :)
I ran 4 days this week, and I did a good job at keeping my goal of "not overdoing it" the first week. I even braved the cold a couple of times this week! I will also add that my husband (who is also running the race) has run every day this week. Something he hasn't done in a long time! So I am very proud of him!
Keep up all the good work, and keep posting, because it definately keeps me motivated to keep going!

Lori Collett

Anybody Up For A Run?

Hi everyone. I have started my first official week of training. Since I ran my marathon in September, my running has been sporadic so it is nice to have something to get me going again. But, I'm surprised at how much of my ability I have lost. It is going to take some work to get back into good running shape again. Because of my schedule and my husband's schedule, it is hard for me to get outside and run. I find myself having to run on the treadmill a lot. But, I'm determined to get outside for a run this weekend. Does anyone want to join me? Deena and I are meeting at the roundabout by the church at 6:30 on Saturday morning. I'm planning on doing 6 miles but you are all welcome to join us for as much or as little of the run as you want. Hopefully we will see some of you there.

Sherian- I'm glad you got some shoes. I hope they work out for you. A good pair of shoes makes a big difference - if not physically then mentally. I think it is important to feel like a runner and sometimes what we wear helps that to happen. I like the shirt design too. I say we go with it. I'm for white as well.

Jarrah - welcome to the group. Great to have you along.
-Amber

Hey ladies!
I wish I had gone to the meeting. I feel like I missed out. You guys all sound so serious. You're making me nervous!! I took a few days off this week and now I'm ready to hit it hard. I love the shirt idea. Very cute.
Deena

Feeling overwhelmed...

I feel like I am struggling mentally - like my mind gives out before my body does. Maybe it's the treadmill - but I could really use some advice on this. Any suggestions? (Sabina)

What's up honey's? Thanks again for putting this all together ladies. (thanks Amber!) I vote for the white tee too. Here's some thoughts on the tee, take 'em or leave 'em...

I threw together this image real quick-like this morning. I was thinkin' something sleek like this across the front, and I've seen some awesome images on the back-bottom corners of tee's. Like a sunflower with an incoming bee, or a cool honeycomb print that spreads as it comes up, whatever, just some thought inside my head. Simple but sassy!

I went to Salt Lake Running Co. and got shoes. I went with the Nike, air pegasus. Nike's have always been too narrow for me, but I was informed they have re-done the design of their running shoes. What a pleasant surprise. I got the Powerstep insoles, and found that i have a high arch. Thanks for the suggestion of this place, I feel so much better prepared. (and I have 30 days to run in them and be sure they are the ones) I must admit, if these are the shoes for me, I will try to find them cheaper when I need a replacement. I also wanted socks, but whoo! too pricey! I went to Ross and TJMaxx. I found some great moisture-wicking socks (clearance 2 pairs $1.99) and some non-cotton pants. So, this is totally a personal question, but...Do you runners run in your garments? I have always played basketball and worked-out in my garments, but I've only ran up to 5 miles. I haven't bought "panties" in 9 years. Do you stay away from cotton with those too?

This is why you are all really glad I am in on this, for questions like that! I'm not afraid to just throw it out there! Today will be my first day of training, just 2 miles, but knowing what I'm beginning makes it a bit intimidating. Thanks again for all the support, this will be an amazing 16 weeks!

-S H E R I A N