Mysti's Run 12-28-2010

Workout: 20 Minute Run

At my parents' house for most of the week, which means running on the dirt road.
It was a short run, but felt pretty good despite 30 degree weather.

I wore my new shirt Michelle got me, Love it !! (Along with more layers)

Michelle's Run 12.24.10

Distance: 3 miles
Time: 31:40

Ran 3 miles on a treadmill at my mom's work.  I wore my new running tights, which are really warm... too warm for running inside.  I will probably not run again until December 31st of January 1st.  I hope a week of not running won't set me back too much. 

No Run :(

I was looking forward to running today and wearing my new long sleeve running shirt Michelle and Michael got me for Christmas !!

But...

My back has decided to act up today. It felt sore this morning, but then I was just walking around the mall, took a stop off the escalator and Ouch !! Oh well, it happens every once in awhile...I should be good in a couple of days.

Michelle's Run 12.20.10

Time: 31:50
Distance: 3.1 miles/ 5k

Michael, Murray, and I went on a little family 5k run around my parent's neighborhood.  I used my new ipod/ nike+ that Michael got me for Christmas.  It has a sensor that goes in your shoe and then a piece that connects to the ipod.  You can set a goal distance or time and a voice tells you when you've ran a mile. It can also tell you how long you've been running and your pace.  It's pretty neat if I do say so myself.  I'm looking forward to using this while training for the half marathon.

Michelle's Run 12.18.10

Time: 62:31 minutes

Ran about 6 miles outside.  I wore my new dry-fit long sleeve shirt (I love it) with a T-shirt over it.  Then I wore shorts... probably should have worn pants.  But I only have one pair of capris to run in.  Definitely need to invest in some running tights ASAP.  Of course I also wore my headband/ear cover thing to keep my ears warm.

The run was great.  I probably could have ran a couple more.

A brave moment

No run today.  I was going to try to run, but I have 6 miles tomorrow and I kept getting distracted with things today.  But I did do something brave.... I added a page on the blog with my body measurements.  I am curious to see how my body changes while training for the half marathon.  I will update it each month.  I didn't post my weight though, I'm not that brave.  hahaha.  I know that someone could just compare their measurements to mine and kind of figure it out, but seriously... if you are going to go to that much trouble you need something more productive to do!  :) 

Michelle's Run 12.16.10

Running Stats:
Time: 31:50
Distance: 3 miles
Pace: 10:36

I was supposed to run 4 miles, but my mind wasn't in it.  So instead I ran 3 and tried to pick up my pace as I went along.  Since starting back to running several times a week I have been slower and having trouble speeding up.  But I think it will come as I keep training.

Mysti's Run 12-15-2010

Workout: 4 Miles
Time: 43 Mintues

Easy Run !!

I am so totally surprised and shocked that this run was easy. The first 5ish minutes was a little cool.

Clothing: Long pants, shorts, tank top, long shirt, gloves and hat.

My motivation came this morning at Target when I found a pair of gloves in the running/active wear section.

Mysti's Run 12-13-2010

Workout:
1) 45 minutes on elliptical.
2) Ran my stairs 15 times.


Michelle indirectly kicked my butt into gear the last couple of days by posting 6 and 4 mile runs !! Thanks Michelle !!


Ok, I feel like I have talked more about running than actually running over the last month.

My thoughts....
1) Join a gym for 3 months...but I'm cheap
2) Run in the cold and just get over it
3) Wii
4) Wii, elliptical, running...whatever I can do to stay active
5) Elliptical more days of the week but not as long...cause I get bored
6) Running stairs
7) Workout videos from Netflix...I just laughed


As you can see (read), I am totally lost without a plan and continue just talking about what I want to do !!

Michelle's Run 12.13.10

Running Stats:
Time: 42:30
Distance: 4 miles

Since the high was in the 20's today, I obviously ran inside.  I ran 4 miles on the treadmill.  I kept trying to run faster... but my legs just weren't moving that fast tonight. 

Picking a Half Marathon

So, I'm having trouble picking a half marathon. I have found three possibilities and each have pros and cons.  I thought writing them out in a post could help me decide.

Knoxville Half Marathon; April 3rd

Pros

-close by

-$60

- could run the parts of the course before the race to get used to it

Cons

-hilly

-earlier than the others= less time to train

Country Music Half Marathon, Nashville; April 30th

Pros

-later than the Knoxville Half

-pretty flat course that goes through downtown Nashville and Centennial Park

-Rock N Roll series which means it's a well organized race and will have a lot of people; they also have live music and other events

Cons

-expensive $90 if I register before the end of the month, although I think I found a $10 coupon

-would have to get a hotel room and pay for meals

Kentucky Derby Half Marathon,  Louisville; April 30th

Pros

-same day as Nashville

-would get to visit a new city

-cheapest @ $50

-course goes by Churchill Downs (the race is a week before the Derby)

Cons

-would have to get a hotel and pay for food and such

I'm not sure which one I will choose, but I feel like I need to pick one soon because the prices go up at the beginning of 2011 in a few weeks.  Decisions, Decisions, Decisions....

Also, I may or may not be running today because it is 25 degrees and looks like this out right now...

Michelle's Run 12.10.10

Running Stats:
Distance: 6 miles
Time: 67 minutes

6 miles again!  Yay!  Although, it was pretty slow.  I had to walk up a really steep hill around mile 4.5 for about 2 minutes so that added to the time.  Other than that, I stopped after 3 miles to stretch and take a quick break.  I'm not too sore right now... we'll see about tomorrow. 

I decided to start half marathon training a day early because I wanted to take advantage of the nice running weather this afternoon.  (tomorrow we are going to GA so I would have to run in the morning). 

Michelle's Run 12.08.10

Running Stats:
Distance: 4 miles
Time: 42:30 minutes
Pace: 10:37

Treadmill run.  I felt really good for not having ran more than 3 miles in a while.  I hope to get another run in Thursday or Friday because  Saturday or Sunday I need to run 6 miles.  Eeek! 

Half Marathon Motivation....

So, I'm still going to attempt to train for the half marathon.  Even though it's been SUPER cold here.  Training starts December 11th and I hope to run a half-marathon April 30th. 

I decided that I needed some sort of prize to work toward.  I was going to do this with the 10k, but I found that I didn't actually need a material motivation because it wasn't that difficult.  This is going to be harder however.  I don't have many good places to go on long runs and it's going to be cold from now until March.  So my motivation this time is a new dress.  Hopefully when I get about half way through training I will start looking really good. (hahaha)  So a new, fun dress will be a nice treat. 

Maybe I'll pick something like one of these....

All of these dresses are from modcloth.com

Maybe this will give me a bit more motivation.  (Plus the high entry fees of half marathons.. yikes!)

Michelle's Run 12.5.10

Time: 30 minutes

Had to run on the treadmill because it was snowing outside!  Brrr.  The 30 minutes was brutal!  I'm going to try to run again tomorrow and maybe it will be a little better.  I have got to take advantage of the free time that I have between now and mid-January.  It's could be a good opportunity for me to start the half-marathon training and start getting in a good groove.  We'll see.

Mysti's Run 12-04-2010

Workout: 25 Minutes on the Elliptical and 1 Mile Run

Oh my it was cold !!

It felt good to get a workout in since it had been over a week. I hope I can maintain through the holidays and then pick back up, but February is usually the month we get the most snow. :(

I want to live in Hawaii !!

Michelle's Run 11.29.10

Time: 30 minutes

I ran outside for 30 minutes.  It was a little chilly, but I wore my ear headband thing to keep my ears warm.  I was happy that the run wasn't too hard.  I wasn't completely exhausted at the end.  I can't believe it's almost December.  I'm still planning on starting my half-marathon training December 11th. 

Mysti's Run 11-24-2010

Workout: 2 Mile Run
Time: A little over 20 minutes.

I forgot to set my watch, but I am sure it was a little longer due the strong winds. I did not stop and walk while going into the windy but it did slow me down.


Happy Thanksgiving !!

Michelle's Run 11.21.10

Running Stats:
Distance: 3.5 miles
Time: pretty slow

Treadmill run.  It was slow, which isn't surprising since I have been sick and I hadn't ran in over a week.  I had stop twice to cough and/or use a tissue. (gross, I know)  But, at least I was able to run 3.5 miles without dying.  Hopefully I get a few more runs in this week.

Mysti's Run 11-20-2010

Workout: 3 Mile Run
Time: 32 Minutes

I missed my run on Wednesday thanks to a horrible dentist appointment !!
Eeeerrrrrrr...

However, I was very surprised and glad that my run roday went well.

Mysti's Run 11/14/2010

Workout:
15 Minutes on Elliptical
2 Mile 18 Minute Run
15 Minutes on Elliptical

I was happy with today run and workout. Basically, doing whatever I can to keep motivated and active with the cold weather beginning.


I did not have a chance to run yesterday, because I went to Little Rock and watched the musical Wicked !!

Mysti's Run 11-10-2010

Workout: 40 Minutes on the Elliptical and 30 Wii Fitness Credits.


Today was just a bad day...

I am proud of myself for even getting a workout in !!

Michelle's Run 11.10.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30:35
Distance: 3 miles
Pace: 10:11

Good treadmill run.  I can't believe it had been a week since my last run.  I have been so busy with work, school, life, etc.  Anytime that I could have ran, I felt that I needed to use to study or work on schoolwork.  However, the end is near!  (I feel like I have been saying that forever!)

No November has been a bust the last few days.  It went downhill from Saturday when we basically pulled an allnighter (long story).  I don't think November was the best month to choose.  Maybe I'll get back in line this week, but probably not.  I'll probably just try again in like January when everyone else in the world decides to change their habits. 

Mysti's Run 11-07-2010

Workout: 6 Mile Run
Time: 61 Minutes

Good Run!! I really needed a positive run to help my motivation and confidence; I have been continually feeling discouraged with my runs the last couple of weeks.

I also felt good about my motivation on eating healthier and using the Wii Fitness today.
* 20 activities on Wii Fitness under the Yoga and Strength Training sections.
* Lunch - Salad w/ Vinegar, Carrots, Celery, Sea Salt and Olive Oil Almonds and Lemon Water.
* Snack - 90 calorie pack of Mini Chocolate Rice Cakes
* Plan for Dinner - Grilled Shrimp with Whole Grain Rice

Mysti's Run 11-06-2010

Workout: 20 Minutes on Elliptical & 2 Mile 20 Minute Run

I decided since it was 36 degrees outside this morning I would use the elliptical for half the time. Starting on the elliptical first helped to get warmed up before heading out into the cold. 20 minutes outside in the cold was about all I could take. My nose gets so cold and then ironically starts to run. Haha...Bad Joke

Michelle's Run 11.3.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30:55
Distance: 3 miles

Treadmill run.  The first half was really good.  But then for the second half my calves were tight and I was struggling.  Michael was in the workout room lifting weights, so I was glad that he was ready to go when I hit 3 miles. 

Mysti's Run 11-03-2010

Workout: 4 Mile Run
Time: 42 Minutes

A good run. It took me a little longer than normal because there were two sections that I was running into the wind and just decided to walk.

I have stay motivated to run; however, I cannot get motivated to start using my Elliptical. I also want to start using my Wii Fitness game again.

Oh motivation motivation....Where are you ??

Michelle's Run 11.1.10

Running Stats:
Time:1:03:10
Distance: oh let's hope it was 6 miles

Yay!  I ran for 63 minutes.  I didn't exactly know the distance, but I figured that 63 minutes would get me close to 6 miles.  I felt great during the run.  I probably could have run further but I was starting to get low on energy.  I had definitely burned off my bowl of cereal.  I'm glad this run went so well since I hadn't run over 5 miles since the 10k. 

It's November!  I have a few fitness related goals for the month.  I'm kind of dubbing it No-November:
1. No soda or sweet tea.  (I'm going to try at least.)
2. No French Fries.

I was going to say no dessert, but with the Halloween candy and the Fall dessert... that wasn't going to happen.  Also, Thanksgiving is an exception.  I'll probably have a DP for Thanksgiving and I will truly be thankful for it.  hahaha.

On a non-fitness note, I'm also going to say No to Facebook for November.

The reasoning?  I need to be really focused in November.  I am finishing up my classes, work is going to be busy, and I am wanting to keep up with the running so that I don't get into a holidays slump and have to start all over again in the New Year.  But if I fail at any of these, I'm not going to beat myself up.

Mysti's Run 10-31-2010

Workout: 45 Minutes
Distance: ??

Not good....Even had to walk some.

I thought I could run after church and be fine, but it was hot and I actually got a little red/pink on my arms from the sun. It was also windy which helped to cool down; however, made it really hard to run or even walk for that matter.

Oh well, I will try again Wednesday.

I might start adding in my elliptical machine on some to help; I don't feel like 3 runs a week are keeping me moving forward.

Michelle's Run 10.31.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 3 miles (about)

This run was hard.  It was pretty warm out, I ate crappy food for lunch, and my legs were still a little from from cycling.  I wanted to run further than 3 miles, but 3 is better than 0.

Last run of October, it's hard to believe!

Mysti's Run 10-30-2010

Workout: 40 Minutes
Distance: 4 Miles

I really had to push myself through this run...

Hopefully tomorrow will be a little easier since I am planing to run 6 miles. I don't think I could have made it to 6 miles today. The only reason that I can think of that would have made today hard was the fact I only running 2 miles of Wednesday.

Michelle's Cycling Class 10.28.10

Class Stats:
Time: 45 minutes

I was a little nervous before the class started, because I had never taken a spinning class before and I could tell that most of the people there were regulars.  Before the class starts everyone adjusts their bike seat and start spinning to warm-up.  After a few minutes of warming up I could tell that my seat was too far away from the handles, but it was too late.... I just had to stretch to reach the handles.  haha. 

The class was so much fun!  I could feel the burn in the first few minutes, but one I got comfortable with the motions I was able to work through it.  I definitely wouldn't have been able to do well if I weren't in good shape.  It was also a complete sweat fest!  My shirt was soaked, but I loved it because it made me feel like I was really burning a lot of calories. 

I will definitely do the class again.

The Half and Cycling

So, I'm about 80% sure that I am going to run a half-marathon in late April.  I've been thinking about it for a while and I think this would be a good time to do it for a couple of reasons:
1. I have a super flexible schedule right now.  I don't know when I will have a schedule like this again, so it makes sense to train now when I have the ability to set aside large chunks of time to run.
2. It will give me something to focus on.  Between looking for jobs in the Spring, worrying about graduation, and other things that we are going through right now... running and training will be a good escape. 

The reason why I am not a 100% sure right now is the weather.  If we have a winter like we did last year, I won't be able to train and run a half by April.  I have access to a treadmill, but I can not run for very long on it without getting bored out of my mind.  I need the weather to be decent enough for me to run my long runs outside at least.  Since we live in the South they don't have half-marathons after the end of April because it gets hot.  (Half-Marathon racing time is Feb-April and then Oct-Nov)  So far the Fall has been wonderful for running.  Let's hope the winter continues on the same path!

I have semi-developed my running plan.  It's longer than a lot of half-marathon plans because I want to be ready to run the half and not just hoping that I make it.  I also have to add in a couple of weeks of tapering (which you don't have to do with 10k's or 5k's). 

There are two half marathons on April 30th.  One is in Louisville and the other is in Nashville.  I would love to run the Nashville one, but it's expensive ($90)!  There is a half marathon in Knoxville April 3rd, but I heard that it is hilly and sucks a lot!  I'm hoping that some other options pop up between now and then so that I have some better options. 

So that's what I am thinking for my running plans for the next few months.  I won't be officially "training" yet, but I am going to begin to up my longer runs a bit gradually and see how it goes. 

One possible winter weather solution I have come up with is taking a fitness class at the University one day a week.  Tonight I am going to try to check one out.  My Thursday night class is canceled, so I am going to go and check out the cycling (spinning) class.  I'll let you know how it goes!

Michelle's Run 10.27.10

Running Stats:
Time: 41:15
Distance: 4 miles
Pace: 10:18

Pretty good treadmill run.  I was a little surprised that I made it the whole 4 miles, because around mile 2 I wanted to stop.  It didn't help that there were some guys in the workout room that were slapping baby powder around (I guess to get a better grip on the barbells) and I was choking on it! 

Mysti's Run 10-27-2010

Workout: 2 Mile Run
Time: 22 Minutes

Short and Slow !!
Wow, my body and especially my lungs did not like the cool weather this morning.

Mysti's Run 10-24-2010

Workout: 6 Mile Run
Time: 60 Minutes

I think running the last mile in the dark helped my time, because finishing mile five I was at 52 minutes. I started running faster because I knew John would be getting worried.

So excited to have finally ran 6 miles!! I have been wanting to for a couple of weeks but wanted to work up to it slowly so that I did injure anything.

Michelle's Run 10.24.10

Running Stats:
Time: 42 minutes
Distance: around 4 miles

I am proud of myself for getting up on a Sunday morning and running 4 miles.  It was cool out, but not too bad.  I felt really good during the run and probably could have run further... but I needed to take a shower, eat breakfast and get ready before church.

Mysti's Run 10-22-2010

Workout: 40 Minute Run
Distance: ??

Woo Hoo...The weekend and already one of two runs down !!!

Mysti's Run 10-20-2010

Workout: 40 Minute Run
Distance: 4.1 Miles

Overall, a good run. I planned to run 5 miles, but my legs are still a little sore from Monday night's run.
It is crazy that a 4 mile run is a basic run for me (and Michelle) now.
I hope to move up to 60 minute runs either this weekend or next week; will wait and see how I feel Sat. and Sun.

Michelle's Run 10.20.10

Running Stats:
Distance: 5 miles
Time: 54 minutes or so (I forgot to set my watch at the beginning of the run, so this is  bit of a guess)

I ran at the nearby (30 minute drive) Nature Center greenway today.  Since I had driven all the way there, I decided to make my drive worth it by running 5 miles.  I could definitely tell that I hadn't run over 4 miles in a while, but it wasn't too bad.  I had to walk for a little bit because almost at the end of the run there is a part that is very very steep.  Walking was probably just as fast as running.  Next time I will run a little further out on the trail so that my run will end when I get to this hill.  The weather was nice and about 2 miles of the greenway I had never run on before, it's always exciting to run somewhere new.  I also ran without my ipod... just me and nature!

Mysti's Run 10-18-2010

I had a very unproductive day at work thanks to all four of my evening clients missing their appointments !! Eeeeerrrrrrrr, If they would have just called to reschedule I could have been home at 3:00pm vs 6:00pm.

Since, I came home angry I decided a good run would help my mood.


Workout: 2 Miles
Time: 8:20 Minute First Mile - 1 Minute Break - 8:05 Minute Second Mile

Mysti's Run 10-17-2010

Workout: 40 Minute Run
Distance: 4 Miles

It was an exciting weekend with John and Joey at my parents' dairy farm; however, it did not help me get my run in yesterday. Oh well, my run tonight was good even after eating too much all weekend.

Michelle's Run 10.17.10

Running Stats:
Time: 31 minutes
Distance: unknown

So, Michael and I decided to try out a new greenway today on our run.  The Knoxville Parks and Rec website said that it was .8 miles.  Well, we get there start running and when we pass by our starting point we look at our watches and only 3:30 had gone by.... definitely not .8 miles... more like .3 miles.  So just to run 30 minutes we had to run around the think like a bajillion times.  We won't be running there again.

Michelle's Run 10.14.10

Running Stats:
Time: 41:30
Distance: 4 miles
Pace: 10:22

Pretty good treadmill run.  I took it slower the first half and then sped up the second half.  Now the challenge is if I will actually run tomorrow...

Mysti's Run 10-13-10

Workout: 40 Minute Run
Distance: ? About 4 Miles

Despite my crazy busy day, I felt great throughout the entire run.

Today: went to grocery store, cleaned the entire house, put out Halloween decorations, cooked chili for tomorrow night's dinner, cooked fruit pizza for tonight's dinner, mowed and edged the lawn, pulled weeds from flower beds, ran 40 minutes and now about to finish up the fruit pizza and head to our friend's house for dinner !!!! Oh, and I did take a showed.

Welcome to my day off :) I Love Productive Days !!

Halloween Candy Strategy

This isn't a running post, but I wanted to share an article I read today.

Halloween is coming up, then Thanksgiving, and then Christmas.  Which means there will be a lot of candy and desserts around.  I read this article today that had strategies for not eating all the candy in the candy bowl! I may have to try some of them.  I don't usually eat candy because we don't buy it, but when it's there I'll definitely eat it. 

http://health.yahoo.net/experts/eatthis/5-worst-halloween-candies-and-10-best-survival-tips

Mysti's Run 10-12-10

Workout: 25 Minute Run
Distance: 2.5 Miles

A Tuesday run !!

My legs felt a little tight tonight. I don't know if it was due to my 5 mile run Sun. night and/or the fact that I didn't stretch too much before the run tonight. Nevertheless, a good basic run.

Michelle's Run 10.12.10

Running Stats:
Time: 41 minutes
Distance: unknown

I'm not sure how I far I ran, but I'm just going to say it was close to 4 miles.  The first half was rough, but I felt better about the second half.  Let's hope I can keep up with running 40 minutes most days.  I'm trying to make 4 miles my base run and then have a longer run on the weekends.

Mysti's Run 10-10-10

Workout: 5 Mile Run
Time: 53 Minutes

Woo Hoo; A Good Run !!

I really needed a good run today to re-boost my confidence. It was one of those days where everything lined out: restful day at home, ate healthy, drank lots of water and little Dr. Pepper, plenty of time to run and perfect weather. :)

Now, making homemade pizza. Michelle and I's favorite Hamburger and Green Olives !! (John's half only has hamburger)

Michelle's Run 10.10.10

Running Stats:
Time: 31 minutes
Distance: 3ish miles

This run was a lot better than the last one.  Michael and I actually ran together for the first 23 minutes.  Then he ran ahead for the last 7 or so.  It was nice running side by side, even though we didn't talk, it still seemed to help the run go by more quickly.

Mysti's Run 10-09-10

Workout: 25 Minute Run
Distance: 2.5 Miles

I felt pretty good during the first 2 miles and thought my 30 minutes/3 miles was going to be easy. Then I guess the heat/sun got to me; I started feeling dizzy so I head back home. Oh well !!

Michelle's Run 10.8.10

Running Stats:
Time: 26ish minutes
Distance: unknown

This run was HARD!  I think it was a combination of my "I don't feel like running today" attitude and the fact that I hadn't run the hills for a couple of weeks.  Hopefully the next time I run them I won't feel as bad.

I kept thinking during the run, "this is awful I can't believe I ran 6.2 miles a couple of weeks ago."  Oh well, you just have those days sometimes.

Mysti's Run 10-06-2010

Workout: 4 Mile Run
Time: 43 Minutes

I can tell I am not running as much; I am getting slower not faster.

My plan is to run Wed., Sat. and Sun. each week and hope to get a fourth run in at some point during most weeks.

Michelle's Run 10.6.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30:50
Distance: 3 miles
Pace: 10:16

Not the best run ever, but I did it.  My stomach was upset at the beginning of the run and even though I was running at my regular pace, I felt like I was sprinting to keep up with the treadmill.  I'm going to try to run on a greenway Friday, so hopefully it's easier.

Michelle's Walk 10.5.10

Walking Stats:
Distance: 2 miles

I was supposed to run Sunday and Monday.  However, my schedule did not allow for it.  I wasn't going to be able to do anything today, but my night class got canceled.  I thought about running, but decided to walk Murray instead.  We walked about 2 miles.  The weather was amazing. I noticed there are some good and bad to walking instead of running.

Good: no sweat, easier on the knees and shins, didn't feel the need for music, and didn't want to look at my watch every few minutes

Bad: burned about half as many calories as running, didn't get that "I feel great" feeling afterwards

I could have ran instead of walked this evening, but at least I did something instead of just watching TV!  I plan on running tomorrow anyways.

Mysti's Run 10-02-2010

Workout: 30 Minute Run
Distance: ??

It felt like a good run; however, I do not know the distance. I was at my parents house this weekend so my run was on a dirt road with hills. Pleasantly surprised that I felt good the entire run even with hills and did not twist my ankle on any rocks !!

Michelle's Run 10.1.10

Running Stats: 
Time: 43 minutes
Distance: 4 miles
Pace: 10:45

My first run of October was a good one.  Murray and I ran at a Nature Center nearby.  The Nature Center has a 3.75 miles greenway.  We ran 2 miles one way and then 2 miles back.  I wasn't going to take him with me, but when we went to the vet this morning they said he was a little overweight.  I was slightly embarrassed/upset.  We try not to be the people that have a fat dog and in his our defense he doesn't look fat.  After all of that, I decided he needed to go on a run.  So he had a personal distance run of 4 miles. 

For the first 3 miles we were going pretty fast.  Then the 4th mile hit and we were not moving as fast.  The last mile was mostly uphill and it had warmed out.  But, we made it and only stopped for a bit after mile 2 so that Murray could go to the bathroom and rest.

I enjoyed running at the Nature Center.  It was pretty, shaded, and I didn't have to run in a loop over and over.  I ran without music and I didn't miss it at all.  I meant to get pictures, but when we finished running we had to leave so that we could be home when the Cable man got here.

I won't be able to run here or on any of the other greenways all of the time, because they are all at least a 30 minute drive from my house.  However, while the weather's nice I am going to try to run on a greenway once a week or so.

Mysti's Run 09-29-2010

Workout: 30 Minute Run
Distance: 3 Miles

I wore my new capri pants for the first time tonight.
Ah, Fall !! Perfect weather !!

Michelle's Run 9.29.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.94 miles
Pace: 10:12

Good treadmill run.  I even did some arm weight lifting afterward.  It was very minimal however.  I was happy to have a successful run a few days after the 10k.  2.94 miles seemed like nothing! 

It's actually getting cool enough to run outside during daylight hours.  I might give that a try sometime this week.

Mysti's Run 09-28-2010

Workout: 30 Minute Run
Distance: 2.7 Miles

This was a difficult run. I got home about 4:30pm and decided I had time to run before John and Joey made it home since they were going for haircuts after work/school. It is in the mid-70's and breezy here today so I didn't think heat would be a problem. Wrong! And the wind slowed me down!

Oh well....I ran the 30 mintues !!

Michelle's 10k 9.25.10

Running Stats:
Time: 1:04:42
Distance: 6.2 miles
Pace: 10:26

We started this blog about 14 weeks ago.  My whole purpose was to run a 10k race. Well, Saturday I did it! I ran in the Doug Kessler 10k Race in Sandy Springs, GA.

We got to the race around 7:30 and the race started at 8.  The 5k started about 30 minutes before our race. The course was pretty flat which I was really thankful for.

Michael and I before the race!

I felt good for the whole race.  The course was shaded, so it was pretty cool.  I didn't stop to walk once, not even when I ran by the water stands.  (I took water, but I kept running while I drank it.) 

I picked up the pace once I hit mile 5. I finished strong, although there really wasn't anyone near me that I could pass... haha.

A sweaty after race picture!

I finished in 1 hour 4 minutes and 42 seconds.  According to my watch, we haven't seen our official times yet.

Here is Michael's time compared to mine.  He finished about 2 minutes before me.  I could see him for most of the race, but at the end he was able to pull away faster.

We ran a 10k and all we got was this T-shirt!  hahaha.

After the 10k we went to the Georgia Tech game and fried in the sun!  So today I have a sunburn and I'm a little sore from the run.

I really enjoyed the race.  I am going to try to run in a 5k in the next couple months and then start training to run the 10k in less than an hour sometime in the Spring!

Mysti's Run 09-25-2010

Workout: 40 minute Run
Distance: 4 Miles

I have missed a couple of runs this week due to feeling a little lazy and not knowing what I wanted my next run goal/schedule to be. However, today was a good run. Nice and cool outside; I hope it was cool for Michelle today !!

My new plan is to start a few weeks in on the 10k running schedule Michelle has been following. I am planning to start on week four consisting of three 30 minute runs and a 40 minute run; giving me a couple of weeks to run the distances I am use to before building up to the 50 and 60 minute runs.

&

Go Hogs Go; Beat Bama !!!

Michelle's Run 9.22.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.96 miles
Pace: 10:08

So close to a 10 minute mile pace.  This was a good treadmill run.  I'm feeling good going into the race...although I'm starting to get nervous!  This was my last run before the 10k.  So my next post should be my race results. 

It's supposed to be a hot day in Atlanta Saturday... please pray for cool morning weather...oh and that I finish... and beat Michael.  :)

Mysti's Run 09-21-2010

Workout: 23 Minute Run
Distance: 2.25

I managed to get myself out of bed this morning at 6:35 and start running by 6:50.

After day light savings time I hope to be able to run more often and longer in the mornings, because right now it is still dark at 6:30 which has been my reason a couple of mornings not to go run or my excuse. This morning I felt good and wanted to run longer; however, I needed to get ready for work. BUT I am still hoping for motivation for morning runs.

Day light savings is Nov. 7th this year....So, I still have over a month before that change.

Basically, I need to develop a new plan to keep up my motivation: running schedule: days and times and decide on a new program 10k or something. Last long run was 5 miles and the one before that was 4.5; both felt pretty easy. Don't know how much to push forward at this point.

Anywho, just thinking out loud

Michelle's Run 9.20.10

Running Stats:
Time: 45 minutes
Distance: 4.18 miles
Pace: 10:45

A great run!  I felt great the whole time.  I definitely could have run the 10k today.  I even ran pretty fast the last 3 minutes or so.  My distance is kind of an estimate, I could have run more or less.. I'm not really sure. I know this is one of the fastest runs that I've done outside, at least at this long of a distance.  I hope that I can feel like this Saturday. 

Some things I did differently that may or may not have made a difference:
1. I had been awake for about an hour and a half before I ran, but it was still cool outside.
2. I drank a small glass of iced coffee this morning.  (Maybe that gives me the boost I need.. haha)

Saturday I will definitely be up a good 2 hours or so before the race, so that shouldn't be a problem.  I may have to make Michael stop and get me an iced coffee.

Mysti's Run 09-19-2010

Workout: 2 Mile Run
Time: 20 Minutes

Basic Run.

Michelle's Run 9.19.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes

Another bad run.  I don't know what the deal is lately.  I still have some of this cold junk, so while I'm running I'm coughing and I just want a drink of water.

Murray ran with me for a little bit, but we saw too many dogs, so I had to drop him back off at the apartment. 

The 10k is this Saturday!  I'm getting pretty nervous actually, I don't know if I'm going to be able to finish.  eek!

p.s. Congrats to Mysti on her medal winning 5k!!  woo hoo! You've accomplished your goal to run a 5k, what's next??


On another note, I'm not sure I like what running is doing to my legs.  The other day, I wore some pants that were almost too tight around my thighs.  These pants have never been tight on me thighs.  I still haven't lost any weight either and I've even cut WAY back on drinking Dr. Pepper.  What's the deal?  Will I ever stop gaining leg muscle?  I would feel good just losing like 3 lbs... just to know I can lose weight.  I'm starting to feel like weight loss is impossible for me.  :(  I'm not wanting to lose weight now... but I need to know that it's possible!  I don't want to gain 30+ lbs with a pregnancy one day and not be able to lose any of it, even if I am running!  Ugh!

Ok, sorry for all of the complaints, that's just how i'm feeling right now. 

Michelle's Run 9.17.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes

This was a bad run.  It was getting dark and the sun setting was doing some weird things on my eyes.  I was getting dizzy.  So I only ran for 30 minutes.

Mysti's First 5k!!

Cherishing Children Challenge 5K
Little Flock City Park
Benefited: Children's Advocacy Center of Benton County


It was a good first race with perfect weather and a manageable/small number of participants. About 125ish runners.

My finish time was 31 minutes and 53 seconds. I came in 2nd for the female late twenties age division (about 10ish ladies, one of which was pregnant); nevertheless, I get to rock a silver metal !!



My Husband and Stepson came with for moral support...Fun Family Outing










(PS. Wish Michelle and Michael could have been with us !!)

Mysti's Run 09-16-2010

Workout: 1 Mile Run and 20 Minutes on Elliptical

Sinus/Allergies are about 85% better !!

Home from work about 7:00pm, dinner, short run outside, darkness and then inside on elliptical.

Mysti's *** 09-14-2010

:(

No run for me today thanks to my totally random migraine headache turned sinus headache turned sinus issues/pressure in general, but after three rounds of medication I made it to work today by about 10:30am and have not felt too bad !!

Hopefully it was a 24 hour head-bug; just made up a new illness.

Oh, and had it been any other day I would have called in sick (especially since it was pouring down rain), but I had a meeting today with my new boss, boss's boss and boss' boss' boss.

Nevertheless, 5k here I come !!

Michelle's Run 9.13.10

Running Stats:
Time: 45 minutes
Distance: 4.37 miles
Pace: 10:17

Good treadmill run, although it was really hot in the workout room again.  I hope they haven't decided since it's cold in the morning that they don't need to turn the AC on at all. 

Mysti's Run 09-12-2010

Workout: 55 Minute Run
Distance: 5 Miles

Good Run !!

Just a few more days until my first 5k !!

Mysti's run 09-11-2010

Workout: 30ish Minute Run
Distance: 3ish Mile Run

Brutal !!

So, let's recap: Last Saturday - Good Run - 4.5 miles; Last Monday - Bad Run - 20 minutes; Last Wednesday - 50 minutes on Elliptical - Basically No Run. Yesterday/Friday - No Run.

Yesterday morning I hit the snooze button on my alarm clock too many times and then decided that was ok because I could change my running schedule up this coming week to Saturday/today, Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, day off and then 5K.

Well, last night John and I decided to have Mexican Food and who can eat Mexican Food without drinking Margaritas...Not me.

Hints why my run was Brutal :)

Michelle's Run 9.10.10

Running Stats:
Time: 60 minutes
Distance: 5.2ish miles
Pace: 11:30ish

I've now got another hour run under my belt.  It wasn't too bad, but I would have been thankful for a little breeze, especially on the hills!  I am proud of myself for finishing it.

Michelle's Run 9.9.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.94
Pace: 10:12

Not a bad run pace for being sick.  I even had to slow down a couple of times to cough.  However, the run doesn't actually sound the impressive when you consider it was supposed to be a 60 minute run.  I'm going to go for that tomorrow.

I was actually supposed to do the 60 minute run on Wednesday.  But let me tell you about Wednesdays...I find it impossible to run on those days.  You would think it wouldn't be hard because I don't have class that day, I usually don't even have work, and I don't run on Tuesdays so I should be well rested.  However, my Tuesdays are really long and tiring... so I think I just need Wednesday to recover.  Plus yesterday I was really feeling yuck!  Today I still don't feel great... but it's better.

Mysti's Run 09-08-2010

Workout: 50 Minutes on Elliptical

Rainy Day.

I "ran" on the elliptical while watching Say Yes to the Dress and Jon & Kate Plus Eight on Netflix.

Michelle's Run 9.6.10

Running Stats:
Time: 40 minutes
Distance: 3.5 ish miles
Pace: about 11:00

This run had a slow start, but I finished strong.  I'm starting to get used to these 40 minute runs. 

Mysti's Run 09-06-2010

Workout: 20 minute Run
Distance: ?

All Hills...Enough Said.

Mysti's Run 09-04-2010

Workout: 50 minute Run
Distance: 4.5 Miles

Location: Cooper Park: Mtn. Home, Arkansas

It was nice to have a change of scenery. The park has a nice running trail, and per the sign it is .9 miles per lap. Why not just make it a little bigger to be an even mile?, Maybe that's just me and my OCD. Oh well, it pushed me to run a 5th lap.

I enjoyed the run and waving/saying hi/smiling to all the retirement aged couples and/or retirement singles with their little dogs...Especially, when it was my third lap around and they were still walking their first. One amazing lady, who could not have been less than 80 years old, was power walking with her husband and her arms were going about 10 times faster than her legs.

Mysti's Run 09-03-2010

Workout: 32 minute Run
Distance: 3.1 miles

Good Day !!

Michelle's Run 9.3.10

Running Stats:
Time: 60 minutes
Distance: 5.6 miles
Pace: 10:42

My scheduled run was supposed to be for 30 minutes.  However, I was determined to make up for my pathetic run yesterday!  I ran 60 minutes on the treadmill at a good pace.  I didn't feel like I pushed it too much either.  I had never run more than 45 minutes on a treadmill before, so I was a little surprised I was able to do it without dying of boredom.  I think my stubbornness took over any boredom. 

My faith in my ability to run the 10k has been restored!  ha!

Michelle's Run 9.2.10

Running Stats: 45 minutes
Distance: I don't even want to know
Pace: too slow

My first run of September was a major disappointment.  I was supposed to run for 60 minutes and I only made it to 45 and that 45 minutes was terrible.  I don't know what my deal was this morning.  It seemed like so much effort just to lift my feet faster than a walk.  Murray ran with me for the first 30 and I thought after I dropped him off that I could finish, but 15 minutes later I just couldn't do it.  Ugh! 

It's kind of funny though, I don't think I ever thought that I would be disappointed with a 45 minutes run.  But I guess that's what 11 weeks of 10k training will do to you.

Mysti's Run 09-01-2010

Workout: 43 minute Run
Distance: 4 miles

Great Morning Run !!

I was trying to run more for distance than time so I stayed in my neighborhood where I know the distance/miles. It was basically total shock when I looked at my watch during the last mile. Oh course, curiosity killed the cat and I just could wait till the end of my run. I even came home and double checked my miles because I started doubting myself.

But, I know there is a good reason for my run to have gone so well this morning. Over the last week or so, I have been feeling convicted that if I can find time to run four days a week I really should be able to find more time to pray.

Solution = I prayed while I ran. I listened to my Christian playlist, prayed and ran. It was great !!

Mysti's Run 08-30-2010

Workout: 32 minute Run
Distance: 3.09

Good Run !!

My running schedule/program has changed to running so many miles per day rather than minutes, but I don't like that. I like to run around a couple of close neighborhoods in random order depending on my mood...sometimes I stay in our neighborhood, sometimes I go into the neighborhood to the west, sometimes I do both.

According to the program, I was suppose to run 3 miles today...I just guessed. Not too bad of a guess.


I signed up for a 5k on Sept. 18th !!
18 days and counting !!

Michelle's Run 8.30.10

Running Stats:
Time: 40 minutes
Distance: 3.9 miles
Pace: 10:15

This is a very fast pace for a 40 minute run!  This was definitely a treadmill run and definitely at close to race pace.  I wasn't falling over tired when I was finished, but I had to slow down a couple of times to catch my breath a little.  If I could run this pace for the 10k I would finish in about 64 minutes. That is so close to my goal.  However, I'm not sure I could keep up that pace running outside and for that long.  With the 10k less than a month a way I think it's safe to say that I need to adjust my goal.  My new goal is to run it in under 70 minutes.  This is still going to be a stretch, but more realistic.  Maybe I will try for a under 60 minute 10k in the spring.

Michelle's Run 8.29.10

Running Stats:
Time: 40 minutes
Distance: 3.68ish (we have tried to figure out the distance of this path we run... we have settled on .82 miles so that's what I'm going to use as my distance approximation)
Pace: 10:52

I ran the first 15 minutes and the last 10 pretty easily... the middle 15 minutes sucked!  I was definitely not feeling the hills tonight.  I'm going to run tomorrow, hopefully it will be a better run. 

4 weeks until the 10k! 

Mysti's Run 08-28-2010

Workout: 30 minute Run
Distance: Unknown

Tonight, Joey wanted to run with me so John decided they could take a walk while I ran. The walking lasted all of two seconds before Joey started running with me. He ran a few steps in front of me for a couple of minutes, beside me for a couple of minutes and then started holding his side. It was really kind of funny, because all weekend he has been saying "I can run faster than Mysti, I can run faster than Mysti". I think he really thought he could.

Mysti's Run 08-27-2010

Workout: 30 minute Run
Distance: 3 miles

Good Run ?? The jury is still out.

I did it, but the last half mile was difficult. My body started yelling at me. I don't know if it was the banana pudding I had for dessert and the two Dr. Peppers today or if it was just simple pushing too hard.

Michelle's Run 8.27.10

Running Stats:
Time:30 minutes
Distance: 2.73ish
Pace:11:00ish

I ran with Murray this morning.  We tackled a huge hill...twice!  It slowed us down, but it was a good run.  He was a good running partner today, you can just never tell with that dog.  He was also very happy to get his ice cube when he got back inside.  

I have a run tomorrow because this week in my training is the start of 5 run weeks.  I'm still trying to figure out how to logistically get 5 runs in with my very weird schedule...and not end up running 5 days in a row.  Michael says 5 runs are too many so I should just stick with 4.  I can't decide if he is saying that because he cares or because he doesn't want me to get better than him!  haha.

Since I have finished another 5 weeks of 10k training, I get 5 more songs for my ipod running playlist.  Any suggestions??  I like pretty much anything. 

Michelle's Run 7.25.10

Running Stats:
Time: 40 minutes
Distance: 3.79
Pace: 10:33

I started the run off with a slower 11 minute pace.  Usually when I run on the treadmill I am trying to push myself speed-wise.  But today I decided I would not concentrate on that as much.  I did get faster as I went along so I ended up with a decent pace.  I'm sure I could have run faster, but this run felt good and I am happy that I am able to run almost 4 miles pretty easily (and without stopping). 

I was supposed to run yesterday as well, but this week has been crazy busy.  I may make up the run tomorrow, but I probably won't because I am running Friday and Saturday, so that would mean 4 days of running in a row.  Also, tomorrow has potential to be a very long day as well.  So we will see where the day takes me.

Mysti's Run 08-24-2010

Workout: 35 minute Run
Distance: 3.2 miles

I was not planning to run today, but after a busy day I decided I needed some stress relief.

Cloudy and Cool = Wonderful / Windy = Surprisingly not so wonderful

Running against the wind was almost impossible. I felt like my feet were going twice as fast but I was going twice as slow; it was kind of like running/walking upstream. Looked up the weather for fun and the wind is coming from the north at 11 mph and gusting up to 22 mph.

So, you learn something new every day...Running + Wind = not always good.

Mysti's Run 08-23-2010

Workout: 30 minute Run
Distance: 2.76 miles

Good run
but
Late for work...

Michelle's Run 8.22.10

Running Stats:
Time: 32 minutes
Distance and Pace: unknown

A decent run.  There was a lot of sweat and a lot of hills.  Why the extra 2 minutes... well I had to get back to my starting point and running got me there faster.  :)

Mysti's Run 08-21-2010

Workout: 45 minute Run
Distance: 3.71 miles

An ok run...

First 45 minute run. Overall, a little slower today. I will blame it on waiting until 8:00am to run causing me to be in full sun the entire time.

The eeerrrr part of my run was when a father pushing two children, toddlers, ran past me. Are you kidding me; I wasn't going that slow !!

Michelle's Run 8.20.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.95
Pace: 10:10

This was a good treadmill run.  I'm looking forward to this easy week.  No 60 minute runs for this girl this week.  5 weeks until the 10k! 

Mysti's Run 08-20-2010

Workout: 30 minute Run
Distance: 2.67 miles

Humm...Nothing too eventful about this mornings run.

I did notice a lady who seemed to be a new runner, because she was walking a little then running a little. I really wanted to run up to her and give her some encouragement, but I thought she might think I was crazy.

Michelle's Run 8.18.10

Running Stats:
Time: 60 minutes
Distance: 5ish miles

I honestly can't believe I actually finished this run.  All night I have planned on just running tomorrow. I ate dinner (pasta and wine) and even had ice cream.  However, when 8pm rolled around and I had nothing to do I suddenly decided it was a good time to run for an hour! My goal was just to not throw up. 

I had to run the last 20 minutes inside on a treadmill because it got too dark.  I didn't throw up and I actually felt good for most of the run (as good as you can feel on your 2nd hour long run I suppose.)  So, I'm proud of myself.

Mysti's Run 08-18-2010

Workout: 40 minute Run
Distance: 3.55 miles


Good Day...

I am very excited about tonights run !!

It went well and I officially ran the miles for a 5k. I should really start looking for a 5k to run in.

&

I bought a new pair of shoes, a pair of trouser jeans and gray dress pants !!

As discussed in a previous post, I have not really lost any weight; however, the gray dress pants I got today are a size 2. Exciting, even though I really think it is just a random mistake in sizing. I have never been able to wear a size 2; I typically wear a size 4 or 6.

Michelle's Run 8.17.10

Running Stats:
Time: 27 minutes
Distance and Pace: I don't know

This was a frustrating run.  I think it was because I was in a bad mood or something.  I didn't sleep well, Murray ran with me and was bad, and the sun came out half way through the run and made it miserable!  I think the not sleeping well effected the other bad elements of the run.  But, my run is done for the day.  Tomorrow I am supposed to run 60 minutes again.  I'll have to psych myself up for that all day today. 

Well I have to run and get ready for work.  Hour long commutes make everything seemed rushed.  (At least I only drive the hour once a week or so.)

Mysti's Run 08-17-2010

Workout: 25 minute Run
Distance: ? A little over 2 miles.

Up 6:10am...The sun was no even up yet !!

It was good to know I could get up at 6, complete my run and be ready to leave the house by 7:30/7:45am with hair down and straightened...which for my crazy long and thick hair is a big accomplishment.

Schools start back Thursday; therefore, my work schedule is about to get busy. I hope I can keep up my running schedule !!

Mysti's Runs Week of 08-09-2010

Workouts: 25 minute Run & 30 minute Run
Distance: ??

Back from Vacation =(
It is a good thing I am back because all I did was eat, lay on the beach, eat, shop, eat, stay up late and eat some more !!

I only ran twice this week but both runs felt pretty good. My left arch has stopped hurting...Which is Great. My right arch is pulling a little now, but not to the point of needing to stop during my runs.

I just have to add an extra GREAT JOB MICHELLE for all her hard work this past week !!

I think I found a race

When I (Michelle) started training for the 10k I didn't have a specific race in mind.  I figured it would be easy to find a 10k to run in the month of October.  Oh how I was wrong.  We looked in Knoxville, Chattanooga, Nashville, and Atlanta for a 10k in October that worked for us.  We found one that was going to be really hilly (no thank you) and one that a lot of people run in costume (could be fun, but I am just going to be happy to finish). 

Well, we were looking at the upcoming college football schedules and were trying to find a Georgia Tech game to go to, when we found out that there was a game on September 25th.  I looked at the race schedule and sure enough there is a 10k race that day in the Atlanta area. 

The reason we don't know for sure if we are going to sign up is because this semester I have a class that meets a few Saturdays a month.  I am hoping to find out this week if I will have class that Saturday or not.

This race is a week before my training program is over, but I think I can be ready.  It might not be a fast run, but I feel pretty confident that I will finish.  It's exciting to have a possible race to run in!

I'll keep you updated on what we decide!

Michelle's Run 8.15.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.95 miles
Pace: 10:10

So close to a 10 minute mile pace.  The AC is finally working again in our workout room.  Let's hope it stays that way.  I know running on a treadmill makes it easier to run a faster pace, but just the fact that I'm getting faster is encouraging.

Michael is out of town this week.  He is a big source of encouragement with my running, so I am a little nervous I will get lazy.  But I have a feeling I will be so bored that I will be wanting to run just to have something to do.

Michelle's Run 8.13.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.72
Pace: 11:00

This run was pretty slow, but a pretty good run.  My knees were hurting a little after the 60 minute run and yesterday I scrubbed the floors, so that didn't help any.  They didn't hurt too bad on the run, just a little sore after.

It was soo hot!  Most of the run was in the direct sun and there was no breeze.  Although I love summer, I am ready for cooler temps at least in the morning.

Michelle's Run 8.11.10

Running Stats:
Time: 60 minutes
Distance: 5.06
Pace: 11:51

I ran for an hour!  I can't believe it.  My goal was to just run for an hour and I was hoping to at least run 5 miles.  I did both of those things. 

When I woke up this morning I wasn't sure how the run would go.  It was hot, I was sore from my minor car accident yesterday,  and the thought of running 60 minutes was scary to me. However, I felt pretty good from the beginning of the run and I slowly gained confidence that I could do it.

Murray ran with me for the first 30 minutes.  He was much better this time, maybe he's starting to get the hang of it.  After 30 minutes, I ran him by the house.  The only time I stopped on the whole run was to let him back inside and make sure he had water.  (I stopped my watch... so the time doesn't reflect dropping Murray off).  Then I started running again as soon as I shut the door and didn't stop until the end of the run. I even had enough energy at the end to finish strong! 

This was my third day in a row running.  I am definitely looking forward to the rest tomorrow.  Friday will be back to a 30 minute run, maybe it will seem easy after this run.  Ha!

Oh, and I will leave you with a picture of me that I took after the run.  It's a bad picture, but it shows my hard earned sweat (and there was a lot of it). I always try to take a picture of Murray after a run because he just passes out by the door, but as soon as I turn the camera on he sits up.

I know you are jealous of how frizzy my hair gets with sweat, heat, and humidity!

Michelle's Run 8.10.10

Running Stats:
Time: 27 minutes
Distance: unknown
Pace" unknown

Not a great run this morning.  I only ran for 27 minutes.  I know I should have sucked it up and ran the other three, but it was going to be uphill and that wasn't happening.  I felt very sluggish the whole run.  Tomorrow is supposed to be a 60 minute run... I'm not sure how that is going to go.

Stay tuned...

Michelle's Run 8.9.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.86
Pace: 10:29

Good inside run.  My shins felt better than they have in a while, so that is great!  It was a hot run (I didn't get going as early as I would have liked) but not unbearable.

Mysti's Run 08-08-2010

Workout: 23 minute Run
Distance: ?

I made it to 23 minutes before my left arch started pulling/hurting again. Eeeerrrr, I was ready to run 35 minutes. Oh well !!

John, Joey and I are leaving for vacation with my family tonight and will return next Sunday. I am suppose to run 25, 30, 25 and 40 minutes next week while on vacation.

Who knows what my runs will end up being with my arch hurting and overeating on vacation...

Michelle's Run 8.7.10

Running Stats:
Time: 50 minutes
Distance: 4.60 miles
Pace: 10:52

I'm pretty happy with the results of the run, but I thought I was going to die during it.  The last 13 minutes were pure torture.  I can't believe I ran 4.6 miles.  Next week I am supposed to run for 60 minutes.... not sure if that is going to happen.

Michelle's Run 8.6.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.69
Pace: 11:09

I finally ran outside on some actual roads so that I could track my run a little easier.  Ok, it wasn't actual roads... but around our huge apartment complex.  I could use mapmyrun.com to get close to my distance.  I also ran with Murray.  We didn't run hills today, but he still slowed me down the last 10 minutes.  The last 5 minutes I tried to pick up my speed and I was pulling him!  We aren't good running partners.  The first 10 minutes he is trying to pull me and the last 10 I am trying to pull him.  We also is a little pain when he tries to run up onto the grass to go the bathroom or when we tries to chase squirrels and birds.  He keeps me on my toes that's for sure... I don't even remember what songs I listened to because I was too busy looking for things Murray might start running toward!

So that explains the slow run.

Tomorrow morning is going to be the 50 minute run! My running schedule is way off this week, but as long as I get all the runs in I am satisfied.

Mysti's Run 08-06-2010

Workout: 25 minute Run
Distance: 2.3 miles

6:00am was early !!

My run started off good, but I had to slow down because my arches started hurting. This is really the first time they have hurt...seems out of the blue.

I am suppose to run 35 minutes tomorrow, but I might put it off until Sunday.

Mysti's Run 08-04-2010

Workout: 25 minute Run
Distance: 2.5 miles

Alarm went off at 6:15 am, Up about 6:30 and Running by 6:45 !!
On my day off !!

Michelle's Run 8.3.10

Time: 30 minutes
Distance: unkown
Pace: slow

A HOT and humid night run.  I didn't even have enough energy at the end to finish strong, I just kind got slower and slower until I came to a stop.  haha.  I'm so glad Michael ran with me.  I don't think I would have gone on my own.

I am supposed to run 50 minutes tomorrow.  Since I ran tonight I won't be running in the morning, so I'll either run tomorrow night or Thursday.  I may also go ahead and run 30 minutes Thursday and 50 minutes Friday.  We'll see...

Mysti's Run 08-02-2010

Workout: 1 mile Run; Walked last 15 minutes
Distance: Not very Far

Eeeeerrrrrr..... Me + Mondays = Bad Runs

I hit the snooze button on my alarm for an hour. Got up at 7:45am and by 8:00 I was very pretty good and thought I would have a good run. Just kidding !!

Michelle's Run 8.1.10

Running Stats: 30 minutes
Distance: unknown
Pace: unknown

7:30 am run, on a Sunday!  My main motivation for getting up this morning was the weather.  It was going to be about 10 degrees cooler this morning than it's supposed to get tonight. 

I took Murray with me on my run.  Since it was my day to walk him anyways, I saved time by bringing him along on the run.  I also thought it would be a good time to take him since it was cooler and I knew there wouldn't be a lot of other people/dog out.  He had a great time for the first 20 minutes.  The last 10, I was pretty much pulling him along.  The pace was way down... I never thought Murray would be the one slowing me down! 

On our first lap we were running down a hill and Murray was having a great time.  His tongue was out and he had a bounce in his step.  The song playing on my ipod was "Beautiful Day" by U2, I couldn't help but think how perfect that song was for Murray at that moment.  I'm sure he was thinking it was a beautiful day... then 20 minutes later he was thinking more like "Misery Business." 

Mysti's Run 07-31-2010

Workout: 30 minute Run
Distance: 2.75

Good Run !!

I did not want to set my alarm on a Saturday; however, the heat this morning at 9:00am will should motivate me to get up at 7:00am even on a Saturday. It does not help that our neighborhood does not have many trees or shade. At 7:00am, the houses still cast a shade on the east sidewalks.

Michelle's Run 7.30.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.90 miles
Pace: 10:20

This was a great run in the sweat box (aka our workout room).  I can't believe I ran that far in 30 minutes!  I'll probably feel it later today and tomorrow, but I was feeling too good to run any slower.  It's a good thing I only ran for 30 minutes though, because when I stopped I felt a little light headed.  So I am happy with my last run of July! Can you believe it's almost August??

Mysti's Run 07-30-2010

Workout: 20 minute Run
Distance: 1.75

Today was another nice run and 7:00am seems to be a good time to run for me. However, I didn't want to push myself since tomorrow is a longer run.

Michelle's Run 7.28.10

Running Stats:
Time: 50 Minutes
Distance: no idea...too far and not far enough at the same time
Pace: I'm just happy I was able to keep my feet moving

My first 50 minute run!  The first 30 minutes were pure torture.  The last 10 were the best.  To let you in on what our little lap is like...I have to run straight uphill for 2 minutes every 9 minutes!(I ran the hill 6 times on this run) I did have to walk at the very top a couple of times... but it probably totaled 2 minutes of walking and at that point I was probably running at a walking pace.  haha.

I'm glad the long run is over for the week... and I can look forward to doing it again next Wednesday!

Mysti's Run 07-28-2010

Workout: 20 minute Run
Distance: 2 miles

Perfect Day

* Woke up 6:58; 2 minutes before my alarm was suppose to go off !!
* 75 degrees outside with a breeze and sidewalks still in the shade !!
* Goal reached 2 miles in 20 minutes !!

Weekend Running Purchases

Since it was too hot to run this weekend, Michael and I went to the Nike outlet... dangerous!

I got a pair of new running shoes, socks, and a new armband for my ipod.  Yay!  Running isn't the most expensive sport out there.. but it sure isn't free.

I think my next running purchase is going to be the Nike + ipod sport kit.  There is a sensor that goes in the Nike + shoe and syncs to your ipod.  You can see on your ipod screen how far you have gone, time, etc.  Then when you plug your ipod to your computer, the information is transferred to your computer.  I think it would be really neat to have.  Maybe that will be my treat to myself for finished week 10 of the training!

You can buy this here, among many other places. 

Mysti's Run 07-26-2010

Workout: 17 minute Run
Distance: 1.54

I decided this morning while stretching that I was going to have a relaxing run and not worry too much about numbers while I was running. So, I simply checked my watch when I left, ran around the neighborhood in no certain order, headed back towards the house when I felt like it and checked my watch upon return to find I had been out for 17 minutes. (Today was suppose to be a 20 minute run.)

This mornings run was good, but back to the schedule on Wednesday.

Michelle's Run 7.26.10

Running Stats:Time: 20 minutes (inside) & 10 minutes (outside)
Distance: 1.86 (inside) & unknown
Pace: 10:45 (inside) & unknown

 I was supposed to run yesterday, but the weather was not cooperating.  It was 94 degrees at 8pm! 

We tried running inside for the whole run, but it was just too hot.  We had to run the last 10 minutes outside, which wasn't much cooler... but there was a (very) little breeze.  Even with the heat my first 20 minutes was a good speed.  My outside run was miserable.  I started off too fast and thought I was going to die by the end.  However, I survived!

Mysti's Run 07-24-2010

Workout: 30 minute Run
Distance: 2.53

Interesting run...

My last 15 minutes was much easier than my first 15 minutes due to my calve muscles cramping during the beginning. I had two small yappy dog chase after me and it got dark on me because I didn't leave my house until 8:30pm.

However, I still feel pretty positive about my first 30 minute run.


:)

Michelle's Run 7.23.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.84 miles
Pace: 10:33

My goal was to push myself to run a little faster today.  I think I accomplished that!  Still no air conditioning in the workout room, but I'm getting used it for my 30 minute run.  Now I can enjoy the rest of my Friday off of work!

Mysti's Run 07-22-2010

Workout: 21 minute Run
Distance: 2 miles

I was trying for 2 ten minute miles back to back. Close :)

Wanted to get my Friday run done early again, because I am going to be out of town from this afternoon until Saturday evening. Plan to be back Saturday in time to run my 30 minutes. 30 minutes - Oh my !!

Michelle's Run 7.21.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: not sure but further than Sunday night's 30 minute run

I really didn't think I would be able to run for 30 minutes tonight.  But I did it!  I ran further than Sunday too. 

I am finished with week 5.  I am 1/3 of the way there! I am going to treat myself to some new songs for my ipod.  Now what to choose? 

9:39 ?!?!?!?!

So, I don't know why this is shocking to me... but to run a 10k in less than an hour I need to run a 9:39 minute mile pace.  Yikes!  I don't know if that is physically possible for me (especially by October).  I am no speedy gonzales!  So maybe it's a good idea that I haven't picked my "prize" yet.  I might be able to get to that speed someday...maybe.  I'd probably need to lose like 10 lbs to get my body to move that fast.  urgh!

I think I can, I think I can, I think I can?

Mysti's Run 07-21-2010

Workout: 20 minute Run
Distance: 1.72

I was happy with this mornings run since my alarm went off at 6:15 am this morning !!

reading and running

I just finished reading this book.

It gives a lot of beginning information about attire, form, training, etc.  It definitely gave me more confidence in my ability to run the 10k, even if I definitely don't have a runners body.  So I recommend it as a beginning running book. 

Michelle's Run 7.20.10

Running Stats:
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 1.87
Pace: 10:41

I ran the same distance/pace as my last 20 minute run.  It was harder today for some reason.  I think it was a combination or being tired and hot.  Well not so much hot as humid.  Even though it was harder, it wasn't too bad especially for running at 7 am.  I'm trying to get better about running in the morning.  Michael didn't even go with me this morning!  I'm also excited that since this is an easy week, tomorrow is just a 30 minute run and not something ridiculous like 50 minutes! 

Mysti's Run 07-19-2010

Workout: 10 minute Run & 10 minutes on Elliptical.
Distance: Run was 1 mile.

Well, today was not so encouraging. I felt like the Tin Man; it felt like every muscle in my body was stiff and needed oil. I was totally surprised when I made the mile loop in 10 minutes. I really was expecting it to be about a 13 minute mile. However, I just could not find the energy to continue. Oh well, Thur. and Sat. were good runs!

Side Note: Running makes me Hungry!
I am not too concerned about losing weight, because my main focus is just to get back into shape and feel more toned. But, gaining weight because I am starving on days I run seems counterproductive. Yeah, Yeah...I am being dramatic.

So Food? Suggestions?

Michelle's Run 7.18.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.6 miles (approx.)
Pace: 11:32 (approx.)

Running outside was a lot cooler and the time went by faster.  However, that hill is a big pain!  Michael thinks that lap around the church is about .8 to .9 miles.  We really have no idea.  So I am just going to assume that I ran about 2.6 miles... yeah we'll just go with that... haha.

Mysti's Run 07-17-2010

Workout: 25 minute Run
Distance: 2.12

I don't know if it was the extra 5 minutes or the 101 heat index at 8:30pm....

But Ouch !!

Michelle's Run 7.16.10

Running Stats:
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 1.87
Pace: 10:41

My fastest pace by far; it's in the 10 minute range!  Since today was an easy run, I really tried to pick up the pace.  I think I could have even run a little faster, but I'm glad I didn't push it. 

This week is an easier run week, so I'm going to be looking forward to the runs a lot more.  I'll just try not to think about the 50 minute run that is coming up in less than 2 weeks!

Also, something must be said for the fact that I got up and ran at 7am on my day off!

Mysti's Run 07-15-2010

Workout: 20 minute Run
Distance: 1.78 miles (Thanks to mapmyrun.com and Stacee for the idea !!)

Thursdays are typically one of my days off from running, but since my mom, aunt and grandma are planning to visit tomorrow I ran tonight.

I pushed myself to add 5 minutes tonight; it was easy !! (Well, maybe not easy but not hard either)

Michelle's Run 7.14.10

Running Stats:
Time: 40 minutes
Distance: unknown
Pace: unknown

Since I didn't run this morning I had to wait until 7:30pm.  I ran 20 minutes inside on the treadmill and 20 minutes outside.  (There is a running path right next to our apartment's workout room.)  The temperature was cooler outside and there was a breeze, but it was hilly which was AWFUL and I inhaled a few bugs.  I'm glad I did it both ways instead of just one or the other.  Just running inside I would have had to stop because of the heat and running outside I don't know if I could have made it another lap and run up the huge hill.

The bad part of both is I feel it's cheating a little to stop in the middle, although I was moving the whole time and stopped my watch.  I also have no idea how far I ran exactly.

I finished week 4!  YAY!

Editors Note: Today (7/15) I'm really feeling the run.  My knees and calves are a little sore.  It also doesn't help that I didn't sleep well so I am exhausted!

Mysti's Run 07-14-2010

Workout: 15 minute Run
Distance: 1.3 miles

I ran a different route this morning and had no idea on my distance. It felt like a pretty good run so I could not go without knowing the distance. (I'm a little OCD) After my run, I drove the same route to find out the distance.

Michelle's Run 7.13.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.67
Pace: 11:14

I got up and ran before work.  Of course it took Michael practically kicking me out of bed to do it.  So, it's done for the day.  I'm sure I will be thankful later that I got up... but right now I'm just thinking about that extra hour of sleep I could have gotten.  haha. 

Tomorrow will be harder because Michael isn't running with me, so it's all on my to get myself up and running. We'll see how that works out.  It's a long run too! 

Mysti's Run 07-12-2010

Workout: 15 minute Run
Distance: About 1.25

WooHoo!! Finally, I ran the full 15 minutes !!

Michelle's Run 7.11.10

Running Stats:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.68
Pace: 11:11

Got up this morning and ran before church!  Sundays are becoming my best running day.  I ran the fastest I have run so far and I felt pretty good the whole time.  I needed a good run to get my confidence back up.  Now I can enjoy the rest of my day.

Mysti's Run 07-10-2010

Warm Up: Stretching
Workout: 11 minute Run (1 mile). Running/Walking last 9 minutes.
Total Distance: About 1.7 miles

I have had two thoughts come up today:
1) I need to learn how to pace my running.
2) My whole workout process needs to get faster.

In regards to the first thought, I blame it on my years of playing basketball. I notice when I am running I speed up and slow down often. I don't think that is really how I am suppose to or should run.

In regards to the second thought, I just spend a lot of time stretching and icing before and after I run which takes time. I hope once I really get in shape it will not take as long.

Michelle's Run 7.9.10

Running Stats:


Time: 30 minutes (give or take a couple)
Distance: no clue
Pace: not sure...but better than 11:50


Since I was a slacker this morning and didn't get up to run when it was cool...it was back to the sweatbox for me.  The reason my stats are vague is because the treadmill I run on has this big emergency stop button and I hit it twice during my run.  When you hit the button it stops immediately and erases everything you had done up to that point.  Since I try to not to look at the treadmill numbers while I'm running too often I didn't know exactly how much time I had left. 

30 minutes is getting easier.

Mysti's Run 07-09-2010

Warm Up: Stretching
Workout: 10 minute Run
Distance: 1.1 mile

I made a deal with myself this morning. If I could run the mile (1.1) loop around my neighborhood without stopping then that could/would be a successful workout for the day.

I am very excited to report...I was able to run a mile without stopping to rest, walk or stretch !! It was not too hard !!

However, it made me think about whether I am ready to start week three of the 5k training. Hum, maybe not. Reasoning: I missed 3 workouts due to being sick and I am just now running ten minutes.

With that said, I think I will repeat week two and give myself another week to build up to running 15 - 20 minutes.

Mysti's Run 07-07-2009

Workout: 30 minutes on Elliptical

I am not totally excited about my workout today, but at least I got it in !!

Michelle's Run 7.7.10

Running Stats:


Time: 38 minutes
Distance: 3.22
Pace: 11:48

This was my first attempt at a 40 minute run.  I say attempt because I only made it to 38 minutes.  It was sooo hot!  (I know that seems to be a common complaint, but it is the summer time in the South).  I'm just happy my pace was under 12 minutes..if only by a little bit. 

Since the AC has been out at our apartment's workout room, I finally went and asked someone about it.  They casually said, "oh, it's broken."  I asked when it was going to be fixed and she said, "I don't know.... I guess we could call."  You think! I wanted to tell her that she might want to get it fixed before people started falling out in there.  They don't have water for people to drink in there either...so it's just a tragedy waiting to happen. 

So, with no AC for an unknown amount of time... I am going to have to re-think my running schedule.  I'm not going to be able to run at night, so that leaves mornings.  Hopefully it will cool enough in the workout room or outside.  This is a big blow to my confidence though, because it is really hard for me to wake up and run in the mornings.  I love to sleep too much.  Michael said he would run with me, which might help me actually get up... but we will probably just be a bad influence on each other.  :)

Here's to hoping the AC gets fixed soon!

Running Essentials!

Running by Michelle Hassler featuring New Balance shoes

 I don't like the fact that I have to work today...so I decided to have some Polyvore fun!

Now that I am a few weeks into my training, I have pretty much figured out what is essential for my running needs. 

1. Good Shoes.  I am currently running with sub-par shoes.  I am planning on getting some new ones soon, I just need to break down and spend the money on them!
2. A couple dri-fit shirts.  A t-shirt is fine most of the time while I am running, but sometimes it's nice to run in a dri-fit shirt that keeps the sweating down a bit.  (especially when I run outside!)
3. My ipod!  I couldn't run very far without this thing. 
4. Running shorts.  My old cotton shorts that I have had since early college are starting to lose the elastic and tend to move around while I am moving.  I have one pair of running shorts and I love them!  I'm on the look out for another pair on sale.  They are expensive usually...but I got my current ones for $10.  Thank you TJ Maxx.
5. A watch (for outside running).
6. A good sports bra. 
7. Water bottle.  I have to drink a lot of water while I'm running.  I know some people don't, but for me it makes a big difference in my running.  The two I have here are eco-friendly bottles.  I currently have a Nalgene that I don't like for a couple of reasons.  One, the mouth is too wide so water spills everywhere.  Two, Nalgenes are made from toxic plastic.  So, I'm on the search for a good non-toxic one.
8. Running socks.  I want to try a pair of running socks that are dri-fit.  They are supposed to reduce blisters and whatnot.
9. I need to find an armband for my ipod.  They don't make my size ipod anymore, so it's hard to find an armband that fits it.  Right now, if I'm running outside I have to stick it in my sports bra.  Not the cutest thing ever!
10.  My goal is to look good enough and feel confident enough to wear something like these in the fall! Right now the thought of trying to wiggle into these things is scary! haha.

Michelle's Run 7.5.10

Running Stats:


Time: 20 minutes (run)
20 minutes (walk)
Distance: unknown
Pace: unknown

Michael and I went up to the workout room this afternoon to run.  Well when we got there it was hotter inside than outside!  And it was over 80 outside!  So, we decided we would run along the path of our apartment complex (there's some shade).  Let's just say anything that could go wrong probably did. I had a blister on my heel, it was HOT, there were a lot of hills, etc.  I also got my time mixed up.  Urgh.  However, I managed to run for 20 minutes and walk for 20.  It wasn't great, but I made it.  Now I get to talk myself up for my 40 minute run Wednesday.  My new motto, "if it was easy everyone would do it."

Mysti's Running: 06-27-2010 - 07-05-2010

We left for vacation Sun. June 27th and returned last night Sun. July4th.

Vacation and Running started off Wonderful !!

Mon. June 28th (At Hotel in Mobile, AL)
Warm Up: 5 minutes walking on treadmill
Workout: Ran 15 minutes
Distance: 1.34

Wed. June 30th (On Cruise Ship)
Warm Up: 5 minutes walking on treadmill
Workout: Ran 15 minutes
Distance: 1.47

It was a lot easier for me to run on the treadmill; So I actually ran the entire time verses walking/running!!


Vacation went wonderful through Thur. Night
HOWEVER
Here is where the vacation goes down hill. :(

I got very sick about 10:00pm Thur. night with what felt like food poisoning or the stomach bug, by midnight my fever was extremely high and I was violently shaking, visit to the medical center showed I had a 103 fever and provided meds and sent back to room, 8:00am on Friday morning no improvement, another visit to the medical center resulting in spending the remainder of my last day at sea in a hospital room hooked up to an IV, 4 bags of fluids later and numerous drugs I was discharged back to my room.

I started feeling better Friday night and Saturday morning; So we decided to go onto Navarre Beach, FL as planned; However, Saturday afternoon through the night I remained extremely sick (I will spare you the details !!) Needless to say, We cut the trip short and headed home.

Went to the doctor today. He stated I obtained a viral infection that simply has to run its course, but stated the within the next 12 hours I should begin to feel better.

Thankfully !! I am beginning to feel better !!
AND
Thankfully !! I was am to enjoy the main part of our vacation !!


In regards to running...
I have now missed three runs (Friday, Saturday and Monday)
AND
I hope to be able to run on Wed.

Michelle's Run 7.4.10

Running Stats:


Time: 30 min
Distance: 2.64 (approximately)
Pace: 11:22

We were at Michael's parents for the 4th of July holiday.  I ran down their street (it's almost a mile) for 30 minutes.  Since I didn't run on a treadmill, I don't know exactly how far I ran.. but it was about the same as my last run.  I'm glad I didn't run slower than a treadmill (which was a big fear.)  I'm also proud of myself for getting up and running 30 minutes in the morning before church while Michael kept on sleeping.  haha. 

I'm thinking that since I don't work tomorrow, I might run instead of running Tuesday.  We will see how the day goes. 

Michelle's Run 7.2.10

Running Stats:


Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 2.64
Pace: 11:22

 I ended up not running yesterday.  My only excuse is that I started reading Twilight and read about 200 pages of it yesterday...not much time for running.

The air was off in the workout room again!  To top it off, my water wasn't cold.  However, I ran 30 minutes and I ran quite a bit faster than last time. 

I realized that since I am running on a treadmill, I don't really push myself in the speed department.  I had been setting one speed and sticking with it the whole time.  This past week I have been adjusting my speed as I ran and trying to go a little faster at times (but not over-doing it). 

It's intimidating to think that for the last 2 weeks 30 minutes was my long run, but starting this week 30 minutes is going to be my regular run and I will have to run for 40 minutes Wednesday!  Eeekk!