Girls Just Wanna Go Run

Chicago Marathon 2010

2010-10-12T14:27:00.000-07:00

First off, I want to thank everyone SOOOO much for the inspiration and the encouragement you gave me prior to my very first marathon! I want to fill everyone in on the long-drawn out-drama that lead up to it...a few minor things happened Saturday and Sunday morning, but I don't have time now.

I did want to let everyone know that I completed it with a time of 5:20:01. Not under 5:00 like I hoped, but finished none the less, and I truly enjoyed it!!! That was what I wanted...I wanted to look back at this momentous occasion and have happy thoughts about something soooo outrageously cool! Something that in a million years I would never think I could possibly accomplish...and I did!

I COMPLETED 26.2 MILES WITH A SMILE ON MY FACE! I CAN CALL MYSELF A TRUE MARATHONER! I AM SOOOO PROUD OF MYSELF!

We are the tutu girls! I am on the far left...with a yellow tutu and bright yellow 26.2 visor!

Can't wait to fill you in on all of the details later this week!

26.2 MILES OR ~~BUST!~~

XOXO,
Stephanie

Chicago Puking Butterflies plus a Runalicious Winner!

2010-10-07T07:41:00.000-07:00

Yes, I apologize for not blogging much this past week. I am gearing up for my very first marathon in Chicago this weekend, and I am utterly, pukifingly, butterfly swarming nervous!!! I try not to think about it, but then someone else comes up to me and asks me if I am nervous...What the H-E-Double Hockey Sticks do you think??? Would you be nervous if you had to go run longer than you have ever had to run...in a different city where you are driving over 5 hrs to get to, with family coming with you to cheer you on, and with a crowd that I know will be amazing, but will make me that much more nervous...would you be nervous if you had to run

26.2 miles?!?!?

Yes freakin way I am nervous! I'm so nervous it makes me want to cry to think about it. I have sooo many doubts in my head about this, and it just SUCKS!!! I want this to be fun, and I want to enjoy this, but I just keep thinking back to my 1/2 marathon in April, where I just knew I was ready, and then because of the nerves, and the excitement around me, and everything else, I blew it...I didn't run like I wanted to, and I doubted myself the whole way. How the heck can I get over this before Sunday, so I can just relax...take it all in, and enjoy it! All I want to do is enjoy it....I'm starting to cry as I type this....

So, you can see why I haven't blogged all week...I know everyone has such postive posts out there about all of their goals for their marathon...Goal A, Goal B, Goal C....and I feel I should be just as positive, but on a strong face and set MY goals, but right now, that is not what I want to do....right now I want to get over these stupid nerves and stupid self-doubts and enjoy this!!! I want this to be an accomplishment I remember forever...but in a positive way! This may be my only marathon I ever run, and I want it to be something I am proud of.
So, as I take the next day or so to figure out how to overcome all of my issues, I will announce the winner to the Runalicious shirt giveaway.
This giveaway was one of my best, as far as responses. It looks like the Runalicious girls should be proud...EVERYONE loves their stuff! So, if your not the winner, out of the 108 enteries, don't fret...just hurry over to their website and order something...It can be an early Christmas present to yourself!

So, I used Random.org, and out of 108 enteries, it chose #75

#75 is Jill at Run For the Hills

Yea for you!!! Please email me your mailing address, and I will get your shirt out to you soon!

Thank you for everyone who entered...and thank you to the Runalicious girls for hosting such a GREAT giveaway!
I hope to be back...in better spirits...with 26.2 miles under my belt....next week!

XOXO,
Stephanie

Runalicious T-Shirt Giveaway

2010-09-30T13:47:00.000-07:00

Yes, I mentioned some information about Runalicious a few posts back, and the wonderful girls at Runalicious were nice enough to send me a super cute long sleeved "Runalicious" shirt. I love it! The fabric is super soft and comfy, and it fits really good! I asked for a large, because of the length, and it fits just perfect. They have a whole line of women's wear in short sleeved, long sleeved and tank top options. They also have options for all of your daughters out there. How cute!!!

Runalicious was also nice enough to send me a t-shirt to giveaway. It is a gray "Runalicious" t-shirt with pink writing in a size medium.

Sooo super cute!

To Enter:

1. Become a follower of my blog, or let me know you already are.

2. Check out the Runalicious website HERE and tell me what you Love!

3. Become a fan of Runalicious on Facebook HERE

4. Post a comment on the Runalicious facebook page letting them know that you found them from my contest

4. Link this giveaway to your blog, your facebook page, twitter etc, etc, etc

This contest will run through next Thursday morning, October 8th. I will announce the winner later in the day! Enter away!

XOXO,

Stephanie

20 Solo Miles

2010-09-23T08:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, I did run 20 solo miles last Saturday...not only was this the longest run I have EVER ran, but it is also by far the most I have ever ran by myself!
I got up around 5am on Saturday to get ready. I ate my breakfast slowly and felt really good! I was excited to get going! I got all "geared" up and stepped outside. There was a nice chill in the air! I started up my Garmin....

Well, attempted to start up my Garmin watch...and the darn thing didn't do ANYTHING! I had charged it overnight, so I knew it wasn't that...It was like it was frozen! I started panicking...there was no way I wanted to attempt my longest run, BY MYSELF, and without my watch. I was looking forward to keeping track of my miles with it, and knowing my exact time.
I ran back inside and found the manuel. By this time I was almost in tears...I read the manuel, and it told me if it froze up, to hold these two buttons, and it would turn it off and restart it. I did it...AND IT WORKED!!! Thank the lord!!!
So, I stepped back outside, stretched and took off!
Mile 1-4: It was a beautiful morning and I just took those first 4 miles to enjoy running! It was neat to run by myself for once, and I was able to really relax, enjoy my surroundings and think! At mile 4 I stopped to walk, drink some water and down a GU.
Mile 4-8: I was still feeling pretty strong! I did get passed by a really fast guy running...He flew by me! Again, nothing to eventful happened! I continued to enjoy my run. At mile 8 I stopped to walk again and drank some more water and downed another GU.
Mile 9-13.1: I got to mile 9 and then had to run another mile out before I could turn around (I was running the same route we had ran our 18miler...except now I had to run an additional mile out) This took me into the parking lot of a middle school and I took a path that led me into a subdivision. I decided to stay straight on that road, so I wouldn't get lost...except I came to an end in the road and I was only at 9.5 miles so I had to turn right or left. I made a left and kept going...so hoping I wouldn't get lost. This subdivision was HILLY and I started to get a little tired. I finally made it to Mile 10, and turned around. I decided to walk up one of the BIG hills, and once up it, ran again. I finally made it out of the subdivision and back on my route home! Yea...over halfway there! I finished the 13.1 in approx. 2hrs and 20min. I felt I was going at a fairly good pace even with taking a few short walking breaks. At mile 13.1 I walked and drank some gaterade and fueled with some energy jelly beans.
Mile 13.1-16: Right around Mile 14 I came to a McDonalds and ran inside and refilled my water bottles and ran to the bathroom.  I continued at a fairly good pace to 16, but I could feel I was starting to slow down. This was where mentally it was getting difficult! At mile 16 I stopped again to walk and told myself I could do this...I only had 4 more miles to go!
Mile 16-20: I started up again and told myself if I could run to 18 that I could walk again before I hit the home stretch. During these two miles I did stop once to stretch my legs on the side of the road.  They were starting to tighten up a bit, and my back was hurting from the continuous motion of my arms. After I stretched I ran to right around 18.5. I did walk again, to drink some water...plus there were a million garage sales going on, and the cars were taking up my shoulder, so I had to walk to get around them.
The last 1.5 miles, I kicked it in gear. I was tired, hurting a little bit, and my mental attitude was shot. I was sooo ready to be done!!! Those last 5-6 miles was when I soooo wish Beck and Kris would have been there to help push me on!
I came around the corner, and my dad, my husband and my father-in-law where outside working on a swing set for my son's 2nd b-day.  My dad let out a yell, and they cheered as I ran to the driveway...20 FREAKIN MILES DONE...SOLO BABY!!!!

I finished right around 3hrs. 40min. I was happy with my time...I think I wouldn't have stopped quite as much had Kris and Beck been there, but I was still happy to have done it!
Since then, I actually haven't been nearly as tired or sore as I was from my 18 miles...which is a good thing!
I ran another 5 miles on Tuesday, and last night did a Body Combat class. I'm feeling good!!!

Only a few more weeks until Chicago....

XOXO,
Stephanie

Stay Tuned.....

2010-09-15T14:43:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you know that I will be gone from bloggy world until probaby Monday. I have an out-of-town conference for work...a leadership conference....to go to Thursday and Friday, and then Saturday is my.......
20 Mile Solo Run!

So, stay tuned until next week to hear my recap...I'm sure it will be a doozy!

Until then...run on!!!
XOXO,
Stephanie

My Birthday...or Belated Birthday!!

2010-09-13T08:43:00.000-07:00

Yep, this past Saturday was my birthday!! I turned the big-ole 29! I have been sick (sore throat, stuffy nose etc) since my 18 mile run, so I was hoping I would feel better by Saturday. Of course my mom and husband have been pushing me to go to the doctor, but stubborn me just doesn't want to go (even though I work in a hospital and my doctor's office is 2 floors down from where my office is...crazy I know!!)
Anyways, Saturday morning I was scheduled to run a 10 mile run with Beck and Kris. We were going to meet at 6am to get it in, before the birthday celebration began!
I woke up at 4:45am on Saturday morning and looked at the weather channel...90% chance of rain between 6-8am. I just didn't know what to do...Did I chance running outside, in the rain with the chance of getting sicker, or do I suck it up and run my 10 miles on the treadmill...Well, I opted for the treadmill!
So, I laid back down in bed until 6:15am (the gym doesn't open until 7am on Saturdays, and I did not want to run on my treadmill in the boring basement) So, I got up at 6:15, got dressed, ate my whole wheat bagel thin with a little butter and some peanut butter, drank my cup of coffee and some water, and headed to the gym.
Got there right at 7am, and got my two bottles of water, my GU and some fueling jelly beans, and hopped on the treadmill in the media room at Gold's Gym. (If anyone isn't familiar with the media run at Gold's, it is basically a movie theater with treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes in it. They play different movies throughout the week, and is a great place to go if your worried about people watching you, or if you just need the distraction of a movie to get you through your workout) So, I hopped on the treadmill and did a warm up walk. "Liar, Liar" was playing on the screen, so I got to see the very end of it when Jim Carrey is fighting his case, while not being able to lie.
I then began my 10 mile run. I decided to run 4 miles, and then walk for a few while I did a GU, and then run for another 4 miles, and walk to fuel, and then finish up with only 2 miles to go.
The first 4 miles were OK...I was feeling a little yucky (with the sore throat), but pushed through it. They did go by really slow. I was the only one in the media room, so I just watched the movie.
The next 3.5 miles were better (the reason it was 3.5, is that the treadmill shut down on me, and I had to restart it and finish up the last 2.5 miles)
The last 2.5 miles were really good! I felt great, was excited that my run was almost over, and that I had my b-day to celebrate that day! At this point, I had watched all of "Liar, liar", plus the beginning again...a few other people had joined me as well.
I can tell you...anytime I run inside on a treadmill, I sweat like crazy! I was drenched when I was done. My shirt was completely soaking, and my hat was all a darker red than it had started out at. I did feel amazing though!
The rest of the day was spent with family and friends. We went to a winery...had way to much wine...danced my butt off, and then headed to a piano bar that night where I was on stage...not once, not twice, but 3 times!!! So fun!
Needless to say, yesterday was spent at home resting and spending time with my little one!

I can tell you this...It was awesome getting my run done Saturday morning..made the rest of the weekend that much sweeter!!!

Here are some pics from the birthday fun!

XOXO,
Stephanie

Runalicious Baby...Plus Your Winner!

2010-09-09T07:01:00.000-07:00

First off, I want to thank everyone for such awesome support and encouragement on my 18 mile run! Yes, it was a good one, but I know there will be more runs that aren't as good, and I will keep your nice comments in the back of my mind when I have to push through those tough runs!
Also, one person mentioned that they are new to training, and was going to use some of my tips in their training. How cool is that!!! Thank you to all who follow...It is awesome to have sooo many bloggy friends!!

Now, I was recently introduced to a new company...with T.H.E coolest name...Runalicious
I just had to check them out HERE. They have a line of women's apparel that is "casual, stylish and yes, a bit flaunting!"
Here is what Nicole and Marcia have to say about how Runalicious came about:
"Runalicious was born from two women who decided to start running together. Mile after mile, minute after minute, hour after hour, you learn a lot about another person. Where we were once just friends, we quickly became great friends, best friends, and each others support systems."
The goal at Runalicious is to help women and young girls show the world around them that they are passionate and proud about running.
I can tell you, I checked out their site, and their items are really cute! You have to check it out HERE!

Now, on to the winner of my "Picture Perfect Giveaway"....I want to thank Rachel for hosting such an awesome giveaway! Whoever wins just has to blog about what they receive from Rachel when they get it. I can't wait to see what Rachel creates for them!

So...on to the winner....I had 77 entries into the giveaway, and using Random.org, it chose.....

#26: Andrea @ Wife, Mother, Runner

Yea to Andrea...Please send me your email address to: stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com I will pass it on to Rachel so you can work with her on designing your frame. To all of my other followers out there, please check out Rachel's designs HERE, and order something...for yourself, your running friend, as a housewarming gift, or for the holidays.

I hope everyone has a great "running" day!
XOXO
Stephanie

18 Mile Success

2010-09-07T14:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, my 18 mile run on Saturday was a HUGE success, plus a huge pick-me-up from the struggles I have been having!!
On Friday night my friend Becki, her husband Ryan and daughter Libby came and stayed with us. Our husbands were going to tile our sunroom, plus for the first time, we were going to run in my neck of the woods! I was super excited, and had picked out a 18 mile route that I couldn't wait to show them.
Me and Beck ate a good Mexican meal on Friday...a huge taco salad for me, and we drank tons and tons of water!
We went to bed around 10pm so that we could get a good nights sleep for our run the next morning.
I got up around 4:45am on Saturday, got ready and met Beck downstairs in the kitchen. We both ate a banana and I had a whole wheat bagel thin with a little spray butter, and some peanut butter! I also drank a cup of coffee, and some water.
Kris got to my house around 5:20am, and we all "suited up"...fuel belts filled with water and gatorade, GU, Garmin watch, Road ID and I-Pod.
When we stepped outside it was a crisp 55 degrees, and we were all freezin our little booties off, but after we got going, it warmed up!!! We started out and decided to stop every 4 miles to walk, fuel and get a drink.
Mile 1-4: Went really good and fast! We talked, and I got to show them some of the local sites around me...where my son goes to daycare, where my son goes to the pediatrician etc.
At mile 4 we stopped and walked for a short time...I decided to go back to my "roots" and try GU again. (I had used GU the whole time prior to marathon training, and since then have been trying a lot of different things...that I don't think were working) I did a GU at mile 4, as did Beck, and Kris took a few swigs of her GU-tini!
Mile 5-9: The next 4 miles were a slight incline for part of the way, and lead us in to the next town. At 6.5 we were running by a McDonald's, and Beck needed a potty break, so we all stopped. I filled up my water bottle.
Then we headed back off and finished our 9 miles in great time. We had about a 10:15 pace going...which we all felt good about. At mile 9 I drank some water and did another GU.
The girls kept asking me how I felt, and I would tell them a quick..."good"....at mile 9, I said..."not to ginx myself, but I fell really good!"
We then turned around to run back....(I actually really enjoy out and backs. The out makes me feel like that is the distance I need to complete...and the back makes me fell like that is the distance I need to get back to my house/car/etc.)
Mile 9-13: Again, a pretty good period...nothing much happened...Beck broke away from us a little, but not too far, and I held a good pace with Kris. We again stopped to fuel at mile 13. I drank some gaterade and water.
Mile 13-16: We decided to run 3 miles and fuel, and then only have 2 more miles to go before we were done. The next 3 miles got a little tougher...my legs were getting tired, and then wind was blowing towards us, so it slowed me down a bit. At mile 16 I was happy to walk and drink some water and I downed my last GU. We then only had 2 miles to go....
Mile 16-18: When we started up again, they took off, and for some reason I couldn't get going, and they got ahead of me. With the wind blowing at me, and my tired legs, I dropped down and was going around a 11:00 min/mile pace. I just told myself that I didn't want to walk, that I could keep going, and it didn't matter that I was doing this alone...I could finish!!!
After about .5 mile I turned onto another road where the wind was blowing so hard, and I was able to pick up the pace. I kept Beck and Kris in eye sight most of the time.
With only 1/2 a mile to go, I turned into my subdivision, and knew that I was going to finish this thing with great time!!! I ran into my cul-de-sac with Beck and Kris cheering me on, and finished 18 miles in 3hrs 11min. This was the same exact time I had run/walked my 16 miler in a couple of weeks ago.
I was super excited!!! I had ran further than I had ever ran before, and had a great time (even with a few walking breaks)...Beck and Kris finished only 3 minutes ahead of me.

We stretched and talked about the run, and how it was a really good run for us all! We all felt really good about it!
I was super sore the rest of the day...and really worn out, but I was on a runner's high...I can tell you....I.NEEDED.THAT.RUN! I hope that run will push me through my solo 20 miler in a couple of weeks, and through the finish line at Chicago!

Thank you for all of the encouraging words prior to my 18 mile run, and for all of my followers! You help me out more than you will ever know!!! (don't forget my giveaway HERE...It ends tomorrow!)

XOXO,
Stephanie

Happy 90210 Day!

2010-09-02T11:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, you heard me right...Happy 9-02-10 Day! I heard this on the radio this morning and was super excited! I loved 90210 when I was younger (always wanted to be Kelly) and now I love the new updated 90210 on TV. I think it is so cool that the date matches!! I'm a dork...I know.

Anyways, last night I met my sister at the gym for Body Combat and had a GREAT workout! This morning I got up at 4am to get in a 5 mile run, and just couldn't get movin. My body was super tired!!! I have worked out the last 3 days, and for some reason this 4th day (early in the morning) my body was telling me NO! I ended up getting in close to 3 miles (run/walk combo) and I did some abs. I sooo hope I can kick this 18 mile run's butt this weekend. Super scared!

Hope you have a great 90210 day, and please don't forget to enter into my contest going on HERE!

XOXO,
Stephanie

Picture Perfect Giveaway!

2010-09-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, another fun giveaway brought to us by The Peek-A-Bootique. Rachel is the owner of this wonderful blog and company and is just sooo wonderful to work with! She has great customer service, and is so detail-oriented on making sure she is making something that you will love!
She was nice enough to make me a beautiful 4x6 picture frame customized for my Chicago Marathon coming up in October. Here is a picture of her work:

Let me tell you this...the picture does not do it justice! The picture frame is gorgeous! It is a HUGE frame with a 4x6 opening. It has Chicago Marathon hand painted on it, along with 10-10-10. And the best part is, Rachel sells 4x6 frames for only $18.

I can't wait to get a memorable picture from Chi-Town to put in it. I am also thinking about having ones made up to give to my two friends who are running with me. Wouldn't that be a fun gift!?!?

Rachel at The Peek-A-Bootique (she came up with the name, because she was called "Boo" for many years by family and friends) offers many hand painted, personalized gifts & decor. You can check them out HERE.

Look at this super cute canvas and matching bow holder.

Or this wonderful teacher sign...perfect for back-to-school.

And here are a few other options I could just die for...sooo freakin cute!!!

And let me tell you, that most of these are made to match children's bedding to a tee! You have to check out Rachel's blog HERE to see exactly how cute these items will go with the coordinating bedding! How creative!

So, how does this pertain to you...well, Rachel has sooo generously offered to give one of my followers a FREE customized 4x6 picture frame. You can have it made up for a specific race, or your blog name, or your kids names, or etc, etc, etc. Rachel will work with you on making it one-of-a-kind just for little ole' YOU!

So, how do you enter...well, here are the rules:
1. Go to Rachel's blog HERE and become a follower. (1 entry)
2. Become a follower of my blog, or let me know you already are. (1 entry)
3. Let me know what you would want your frame to say if you won. (1 entry)
4. Become a fan of The Peek-A-Bootique HERE on facebook. (1 entry)
5. Post this giveaway on your blog, facebook, twitter etc, etc, etc. (1 entry for each)

So, enter away...This contest will run through next Wednesday September 8th. I will announce the winner on Thursday!

XOXO,

Stephanie

I Won!!!

2010-09-01T12:42:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to update everyone really quick...thanks for the great support on the etsy contest I entered. I found out today....that I won!!! Sooo fun!
Because I won, I get to recieve my 3 items! I just can't wait!

I just wanted to let everyone out there, that possibly hesitates to enter a contest, thinking "It won't be me...I never win anything" that you can and do win on blogs! I know people that play the lottery every single day, and never win, or call and call and call into radio stations to try to win concert tickets etc, and never win, but I can tell you....if you enter into fellow bloggers giveaways, you have such a good chance of winning!!!
I just entered the etsy contest yesterday, with already over 120 entries, and I still won!!! So, next time you see a fun giveaway, take a little bit of time, and enter...you just never know!!!

I can't wait to receive my items, and do a review on them....soon to come!

XOXO,
Stephanie

Wishin and Hopin and Prayin....

2010-08-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

I ran across this really great giveaway for $100 in etsy products! Boy do I love etsy!!! I have purchased a lot of things from there including my son's 1st birthday party hat, his 1st birthday party banner, and now this year labels for his 2nd birthday party. It is such a fun site to look around on!!!

So, for the fun giveaway going on HERE, I have to make a wish list of etsy products and what I would purchase if I won. It has to be less than or equal to $100. So here we go:

1. I would order this super cute tank HERE with the saying "Twenty Six point Two" to help motivate me to finish this darn marathon training I am struggling with!!! $29.00

2. I also love this comfy looking off the shoulder sweat shirt HERE that says "Work It Out". It looks like something I would love to chill with on a cold day, but still look super stylish! $38.00

3. I would also get this necklace HERE with my son's name on it. Just love the writing! $28.95

So, that comprises my list. Sooo hard to narrow down what I want...cause I want it ALLLLLLLLLLLL!!!

XOXO,
Stephanie

Cherry on Top Award From My Favorite Running Diva!

2010-08-31T11:47:00.000-07:00

So, I got an award...please hold the applause! It did come from one of my very most favorite bloggers...Jamie at Running Diva Mom! (She is the very first blog I started following, and one of my favorites to stalk!)

So, this is how the award works:

#1. Answer this question: If you had the chance to go back and change one thing in your life, would you and what would it be?
#2. The second thing you have to do is, pick 6 people and give them this award. You then have to inform the person that they have gotten this award.
#3. The third and final thing is, thank the person who gave you the award.

1. I would have been more self confident about myself when I was younger. I have always be self conscious about my weight from a very young age. I remember doing Weight Watchers with my mom when I was in grade school/high school. I have always dieted, and have always had to watch what I eat. I was always very active in high school, playing both basketball and softball, but I never felt happy with myself.
In college I gained some weight freshman year, but by junior year I had lost A LOT of weight. I did start working out a lot, which was good, but I wasn't being healthy about my eating (a lot of times not eating) I still was not completely happy with myself. I think I pushed a lot of people away because of my attitude about myself.
To this day I still struggle with all of my body issues and concerns, but I do know that I am living a healthier lifestyle. I think I will always have to watch what I eat, work out and be conscious of these things, but I do think I am beginning to accept myself more, and realizing that no matter what I am a good person, and an awesome mommy and wife! I will still strive to be skinner and more fit, but I am going to be happier in the process!

2. My 6 picks are:
Caution RedHead Running

Melissa's Adventure's in Living Life

Mom vs Marathon

Run Zoe Run

Running Through Life

Tri-ing My Hardest

3. Thanks Jamie for the tag!!! You are a great inspiration and a great Mommy! Anyone who hasn't checked out Jamie's blog HERE....go do it! You won't be disappointed!

XOXO,
Stephanie

Training Funk with a Winner!

2010-08-31T07:05:00.000-07:00

So, I haven't posted in about a week...partically because I have skipped a few runs and am ashamed!!!:(
I did two 5 mile runs last week, and then we left on vacation to the Lake of the Ozarks, and I was suppose to get my two other runs in...and I didn't!
So far this week I did Body Combat last night, but still no running....so, I have to kick my butt in gear and get some runs in before our 18 mile run this weekend.
I think I am in the "burn-out" stage of marathon training...I know I need to push through it, but I sooo miss just being able to go to the gym and do my workout classes, and maybe get in a couple 3-5 mile runs. Nope, I HAVE to get in 4 runs a week with one being a super long one...oh marathon training...why do you torment me so!?!?!
I am still excited about the Chicago marathon coming up, but I am too also doubting myself more and more. I know I can finish it, but I'm not sure I have the same desire I had week 1...where I was going to run the whole thing...with my friends! Now I think because I have had to walk some of my longer runs, it has gotten me down and now all I can picture is being lost in a sea of people on race day mentally and physically pushing myself through 26.2 long miles....ALL.BY.MYSELF! Kinda depressing...dontcha think???
I know I will come out of this funk....I am going to try to incorporate some more cross-training into my weeks...I hope this helps break up the running, and on occasion, I might even replace a running day with cross-training...I have to do something to make sure I get motivated again to complete this sucker!!!
Does anyone else ever fall into the "training funk"? What do you do to overcome it?

Now onto the winner of my CSN gift card giveaway.....
There were 55 entries into my CSN gift card giveaway. Using random.org, it drew the #7.....
So, the winner of the $35 CSN Gift Card is...DRUM ROLL PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

sTyliSH1 at Fork you! No, fork you!

sTyliSH, please send me your email address to me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com and I will forward it over to CSN so they can send you your gift card...hope you get something fun with it!!!

XOXO,

Stephanie

CSN Gift Card Giveaway FOR YOU!

2010-08-24T14:19:00.000-07:00

Yes, the nice people at CSN have offered to give one of my loyal followers a $35 giftcard to their CSN store! How nice is that!!!
I can tell you that I have actually recieved a few items from CSN, and they are awesome! And shipping is SUPER DUPER fast!
The thing with CSN Stores is they have sooo many things to choose from. I am in the market for new kitchen dishes, and I just love their Corelle Dinnerware Line. They have so many options to choose from...and tons that would look awesome in my kitchen!

I also will give you insight into what I have already ordered. There will be pictures to come on one of the items, because it was purchased for my son's 2nd birthday party in September, but I just love it! It is a super cute circus tent. My son is going to love it! It is a circus theme, and I think this will fit in perfectly.

I also recently purchased some play food for my son from CSN Stores. He LOVES them! They have velcro holding them together and then you use the knife to cut them.

So, I have a $35 gift certificate for one of YOU! Here are the ways you can enter:

1. Become a follower, or let me know you already are.
2. Visit CSN Stores HERE and browse around. Let me know what you would buy with your gift card.
3. Post this giveaway on your blog, facebook, twitter, etc, etc, etc.

This giveaway will run through August 30th. The winner will be announced on August 31st.

HAPPY SHOPPING!

XOXO
Stephanie

Walking....A Crime???

2010-08-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

So, I had a 16 mile run this past weekend....CRAZY to even think I am attempting this distance. I mean just a little over a year ago, I couldn't run half a mile, and now I am running or attempting to run (well, more on this later)16 miles!?!?
We started out at 5:30am on Saturday morning...I had to drive an hour to meet up with the girls, so I got up around 4:00am and left my house at 4:30am. I was tired by the time I got there....and I still had 16 long miles ahead of me!
I did have my new shoes...which was fun!!! I had ran 5 miles in them on Thursday night, so I knew they would do pretty good.
We started out and of course...like always, the first half went great! We chatted, held a steady pace and stopped to walk and fuel every 4 miles. Once we hit approx. 9 miles, I just got TIRED! I didn't feel like running anymore, and I was thirsty! So, I WALKED...Yep, WALKED! No, not the remaining 7 miles, but I broke from my running girls, and walked some while sipping my water. I then started running again, and did approx. another 4 miles or so, and then I just didn't want to run anymore. I decided at that point I was not going to get down on myself, and I was not going to worry that Kris and Becki were way ahead of me, so I did a .25 walk and then a .25 run for the remaining 3 miles. This made the miles go by faster and I didn't have to do that same running motion the whole time.
I just feel like when I run for so long, that my body just gets sooo tired of doing the same motion over and over and over and over again! Does anybody else ever feel this way?
I finished in 3hrs 11min. Becki and Kris finished in 3hrs, so I was only approx. 1 mile behind, which isn't too bad...I don't think???
So, my question is....Is it bad to WALK while training for a marathon?
I had always thought I should run all of my training runs...but, as the miles creep up there, I just don't know if I am really a long distance runner. I mean, I love about 8 miles, and then I just don't like it much after that. I am obviously doing a marathon in October, so I have no choice but to push through this, but I just want to see if others feel this same way?
I read sooo many running blogs where everyone is such a SUPER STAR, and no matter how they feel, or where they think they might end at the end of the race, they ALWAYS pull it out and finish like in first place, or PR a race when they were puking etc. Are there runners out there that just struggle with running? Sometimes I start to feel like I am doing something wrong....Even the girls I train with make it look easy...well, for me it's not easy. I have to push myself every time to finish! I am sooo happy when I do, and I always do finish (never give up) but I just never hear stories of people fully struggling...Everyone else's stories seem like happy endings!

So, there is my story...I am still pushing on, and of course this story won't be over until 10/10/10, when I attempt and conquer this here marathon! But, while training for it, am I committing a "RUNNER'S CRIME" by walking??? I need your help!

And now I will leave you with a few pictures from our 14 mile run a few weeks ago(Please notice my SUPER CUTE "pink" fuel belt!!! Love it!!! If you don't have one...go get one...you won't be sorry!)....

XOXO,
Stephanie

Lane & Lila Giveaway Winner

2010-08-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you for everyone who entered my Lane & Lila giveaway. There were 25 entries, and there will be 2 winners.
I used random.org....the first number that was chosen was #24, which is:

CHARLENE @ THE TANGUAY FAMILY

The second number that was chosen was #1, which is:

DAWN @ RACING DAWN

Both of you will be able to choose from one of the three choices below on what you would like. Please email me your email address, and I will forward it over to Anna.

1. a children's "Mom's Running Partner" T-Shirt

2. a children's "Dad's Running Partner" T-Shirt

3. or a childrens "That's How I Roll" T-Shirt

Thank you to everyone who entered, and thank you a bunch to Anna for hosting such a fun giveaway!!! Please check out her site HERE...sooo cute!

For All You Running Mommies.....GIVEAWAY!

2010-08-18T08:29:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about my next giveaway. I ran across a cute shop on etsy called Lane & Lila. They have T.H.E C.U.T.E.S.T children's apparel. Lane & Lila is ran by Anna who came up with the name by using her grandmother's name, Elaine and her twin sister's name, Lila. She started dreaming about a beautiful, little boutique about six years ago. Her inspiration for her shop comes from her grandmother's sense of style and her incredible class. Her grandmother was always put together beauifully, the way Anna would like to have her store one day. For now she is loving her tiny corner of the internet to sell Lane & Lila products...in doing so, she is able to carry on her Granny's legacy.
You can find Lane & Lila products on both her etsy site HERE and on her main website http://www.laneandlila.com/.
When I asked Anna what her favorite Lane & Lila product was she said the month by month onesies...and I couldn't disagree more. They are just adorable!

Anna also mentioned that she loves to make hair clips and bands for adult women (they are also made for children) She states, "It's amazing what a pretty little clip can do for a messy ponytail"
Take a look at this cute thing....

As for how this connects with running, Anna began running in college and a few years ago completed her first half marathon! Anna has a 16 month old son named Neil and has given me some advice to share with all the mommies out there on how to get back into running after having children:
"Running after having a baby is hard, because you have to make sure your child's taken care of, or you have to get up at the crack of dawn to run. Honestly, what new mom wouldn't rather be sleeping? Ha! Running strollers are great! Commitment is key, though, with any routine. It takes dedication and grace to get over it when you miss a day. Or week. My encouragement for moms with little ones is to start small. Walk. Walk more the next day. Eventually, challenge yourself to a few minutes of jogging. And take it from there! And, yes, I am following my own advice, for I'm in the process of working back to being a runner myself."
Great advice Anna!

Now, onto the giveaway...Anna has sooo graciously offered to have not one, but two winners. You will have the chance to win one of Anna's Lane & Lila items below (You will pick one of the below, if you win):

1. a children's "Mom's Running Partner" T-Shirt

2. a children's "Dad's Running Partner" T-Shirt

3. or a childrens "That's How I Roll" T-Shirt

So, to enter the giveaway, you have options....

MANDATORY:

***Go to the Lane & Lila's etsy shop HERE and favorite Anna's site

OTHER WAYS TO ENTER:

1. Become a Follower of my blog, or let me know you already are

2. Visit the Lane & Lila's etsy shop HERE and let me know what you like

3. Visit Anna's personal blog HERE and become a follower
4. Let me know which shirt you would choose if you won!

This giveaway will run through Monday August 23rd.

The winners will be announced on Tuesday August 24th.

XOXO,

Stephanie

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

GU WINNER!

2010-08-13T07:45:00.000-07:00

Well, today is the day....to announce the GU Winner! Thank you to everyone that entered....there are a lot of GU-fanatics out there!

There were 65 entries, and I after using Random.org, the winner is.......

#16

Becka at
50 Half Marathons in 50 States
(You go girl!)

Congrats Becka...please send me your mailing address to: stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com
I will get your GU's out to you right away!

Thanks everyone for playing!
XOXO
Stephanie

Sad News....and Makeup!

2010-08-12T07:28:00.000-07:00

Well, my two topics for Thursday don't have anything to do with each other...well, I guess they are both about running, so maybe they do.

First off, yesterday I found out that our last big training run (20 miles) that me, Becki and Kris were suppose to be doing on September 17th (we were going to take the day off work, run our 20 miles together, get all ready and then spend the rest of the day as a girls day...massages, pedi's etc) Well, yesterday I found out I had been accepted into a Leadership Program through work. I was SUPER excited! I had been nominated by my boss, and had to send in references and write an essay, and I was accepted!! Well, after reviewing all of the MANDATORY meetings, I found out that on September 16-17, I have an overnight retreat I have to go to...Yes, on September 17th....so, no 20 miler with my friends...no girls day with massages and pedi's...SOOO SAD!!!:(
I am now probably going to take another day off that week, by myself, and run my 20 miles....SOLO! So, after being pretty upset last night, I have now decided that after my SOLO 20 mile run, I will have my own girls day, SOLO! I can still get a massage and pedi or just spend the rest of my day relaxing and doing things for myself. Sometimes when things don't go as planned, you have to pick yourself back up and think of something just as exciting to keep you going! I know a SOLO 20 miles won't be easy, but hopefully it will push me to be that much stronger, because at the end of it, I will know that I have done the whole thing...by myself! So, I know this is over a month away, but mentally I have to prepare myself....and I will!

Now....makeup! Allie at That Girl is A Running Fool HERE posted an interesting topic this morning about makeup. If you haven't read it, you can go HERE to read it.
This made me start thinking about if others wear makeup while running. I can tell you that if I am running solo or on my treadmill in the morning, I don't worry about putting anything on. I really don't care how I look on the treadmill, to be quite honest. Now, on the weekends when I meet up with my running girls, I tend to always put on a little powder and some bronzer, and I curl my eyelashes. It seems to wake me up, and make me feel a little "prettier" for my run! Now, on race day, I go all out. I will put on powder, bronzer, light eye shadow, light eye liner and some mascara. I tend to always wear lip gloss also. Another thing I do on race day is put in my diamond earrings. They are screw on backs, so they won't fall out, but I think the little "bling" completes a race day outfit.
So, my question for you is do you wear makeup when you run? What about race day...do you wear makeup for that "special" day? Anything else special you wear on race day (besides the normal race gear)?
XOXO,
Stephanie

Don't forget about the great company I am promoting that offers such cute personalized bags for you, your kiddos, or gifts for the fam. Plus if you buy something from Thirty-One through my site between now and August 22nd, you will be entered into a drawing to win a FREE Thirty-One bag!! Check it out HERE
Check out my GU giveaway...Winner announced tomorrow! I have it going on HERE. Get yourself some GU!

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

Longest Run To Date- 14 Miles with my Pink Sidekick!

2010-08-10T08:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, this past Saturday I ran my longest distance so far...14 Miles! It was such a beautiful morning. We met up at 5:45, stretched and made sure we had everything. Even though my new shoes haven't come in yet :( I did have something else new...Look at how cute this is!! I received the pink belt from Fuel Belt. It is absolutely sooo cute! I just loved it! I have been trying to figure out how to have both water and gatorade with me while I am running, because they will be offering this at Chicago, so I knew I needed to train this way. The Fuel Belt worked perfectly! I filled two bottles with water, and two with gatorade, and then froze them the night before our run. That morning I was able to strap on my fuel belt and go!

I can tell you, IT DID NOT BUG ME ONE BIT!!! The secret to wearing a Fuel Belt is you need to get a size that will allow you to wear it around the smallest part of your torso. I ordered a medium, and it fit perfectly!! I was able to carry my GU Chomps in the pouch on the side, along with my car key. I think I will be purchasing another zipper pouch to go on the other side so that I can store more items for the marathon. But let me tell you, for $45.95, this item is just perfect if you need to carry multiple types of drinks, or if you don't like to carry your water bottle. Plus, for all of you GU-tini converts, one of these bottles would be perfect to have your GU-tini ready! (My friend Kris actually tried it this weekend in one of her bottles on her Fuel Belt, and she really liked it!)
I will be wearing my Fuel Belt on all of my long runs from now on...and I do think this baby will have a showing in Chi-Town as well! So, please check out Fuel Belts HERE...You won't be disappointed!

As for my run, we started at Forest Park in St. Louis and headed towards the St. Louis Arch. My friend Becki carried a camera, so when she sends her pictures, I will make sure to post them. The first 7 miles were wonderful! We chatted it up, took in the sites and said hi to a few other runners, along with homeless people along the way (yes, there were homeless people along the way, but all of them were very nice and cheered us on) When we reached the Arch, we all touched it and then took a picture in front of it. Then we had to head back. I was doing great until around 10.5 miles. I started getting dizzy again...which has been happening a lot to me when I get over 8-9 miles. We did stop at 10.5 to walk and get some water and I ate a few Chomps. The remaining 3.5 miles was rough for me. My body was getting a little tired, but I was just sooo dang dizzy! I did a walk/run thing for approx. the last 1.5 miles. I did finish, which is good, but not as fast as I would have liked.
I'm not sure where the dizziness is coming from...I think I do have low blood sugar, so this could be part of the problem. I need to figure out what to do when I start getting that dizzy feeling...more food, more sugar, more water??? Just not sure yet. Anyone else ever feel like this after a long run? What do you do to help with it?

Hope everyone has great runs this weekend and really thinks about picking up a Fuel Belt to assist them on their runs! They are super stylish and such a great addition to your training gear!
XOXO
Stephanie

Don't forget about the amazing 30% discount for Racing Bib Scrapbook Pages from LauraElaineDesigns....Details HERE
Also, I have a great company I am promoting that offers such cute personalized bags for you, your kiddos, or gifts for the fam. Plus if you buy something from Thirty-One through my site between now and August 22nd, you will be entered into a drawing to win a FREE Thirty-One bag!! Check it out HERE
Another Giveaway I have going on is HERE. Get yourself some GU!

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

GU-tini Giveaway

2010-08-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

Wow, a lot of you guys really liked the GU-tini idea. Can't wait to hear about it after you try it. If you haven't been introduced to the new and upcoming thing....You can read all about the GU-tini HERE!
So, in honor of the GU-tini, I will be giving away 4 free GU packets to one lucky follower! I guess you can call me the bartender!

Here's what ya have to do to enter:
1. Become a follower of Girls Just Wanna Go Run or tell me you already are
2. Tell me what your favorite GU flavor is
3. Link this giveaway back to your blog, facebook, twitter, etc, etc, etc (list separately, and you will get an entry for each)

I will announce a winner on Friday August 13th.....

Can't wait for my 14 miler (mileage PR for me) recap next week.
XOXO
Stephanie

Don't forget about the amazing 30% discount for Racing Bib Scrapbook Pages from LauraElaineDesigns....Details HERE
Also, I have a great company I am promoting that offers such cute personalized bags for you, your kiddos, or gifts for the fam. Plus if you buy something from Thirty-One through my site between now and August 22nd, you will be entered into a drawing to win a FREE Thirty-One bag!! Check it out HERE

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

THIRTY-ONE: Giveaway with Purchase

2010-08-05T12:08:00.000-07:00

This is not really running related, but I wanted to let everyone know about a great company...Thirty-One. They are a home-based company that offers personalized and monogrammed items ranging from bags, lunch totes, storage totes, home decor and sooo much more! I found out about this company about a year and a half ago and just LOVE their stuff! I have hosted two in-home parties to sell their items, and now I am doing a web-based party, so you can participate too!

Here is some of what they have to offer:

These items are great for all of your running travel you might have. They have GREAT insulated lunch totes that you could use for the kiddos on race day to pack their lunch and snacks. They also have storage totes that you can fit all of your running needs in...fuel items, survival kit etc.
You can check out their website and catalog HERE. Right now they have a great special going on...any item can be personalized in any color/font style for only $1.
If you would like to order something, let me know between today and August 22nd, and I can send you the link to place the order, or I can assist you in placing your order.
Also, for anyone that orders something from Thirty-One between now and August 22nd, you will be entered in a drawing for a FREE Thirty-One bag!
GO CHECK THEM OUT!

XOXO
Stephanie

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

Runner's Race Bib Scrapbooks plus an AWESOME discount!

2010-08-04T08:59:00.000-07:00

I have a great company/designer you need to check out...LauraElaineDesigns' HERE

Laura makes T.H.E cutest scrapbook pages for you to display your beloved racing bibs, plus pictures and info from the race. Laura was nice enough to make me a few pages to display my pictures and bib from my Go St. Louis half marathon. I recieved them a few weeks ago, and still haven't ordered pictures to put in it yet, but I did want to show them off!

How cute are those!!! I can't wait to put all of my info on them and display my bib and pictures! I think scrapbooking your race is the best way to cherish your experience that day, and is something you can keep in a safe book to show off to others. I hope to do this with all of my "big" races!

Laura is offering an AWESOME deal to all of my followers...from now until August 18th you can get 30% off of anything at LauraElaineDesigns'. Just mention to her that you saw this on my blog. This is the perfect time to get that special made scrapbook for your "best" race, or even have matching pages made for you and your running buddies! What a great gift for someone that you ran that special race with! They would make awesome birthday or christmas gifts also. You could place all of the info and pictures in it of the friends you ran with, and give it out as a gift. I know there are plenty of us that run with others!!!

So, don't hestitate, go check out LauraElaineDesigns' and order something for you or your running bestie and get 30% off. (mention you saw this on my blog) Her designs start at just $8.99. She also does custom designs!

Well, today is a cross training day for me, so off to Body Combat tonight for me! Hope everyone is staying cool...it's a SUPER hot one here!!

XOXO,

Stephanie

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

GUtini's...and much more!

2010-08-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been a little bit since my last post...life has been crazy, hectic! I appreciate everyone's comments on running socks. I will let you know what I end up choosing.
I did get a new pair of running shoes...well, they had to order my size, but I will have them this week. Super excited!!! I ended up going with an updated version of what I had been running in: Asics GEL-DS Trainer 15
Here is a pic...super cute...and pink!!! I will let you all know what I think once I have a chance to wear them. I also got something else super cute and pink, but that review will be coming soon. Think hydration!!!

As for meeting with the running coach last Thursday. She was very nice and knowledgeable. She is actually currently training for a 100 mile run in 2011...crazy!!! Here is her website: http://www.sallydrake.com/Coaches/HillerErika.html
She spoke to us about what we were currently eating, and some options that we could choose. She said prior to a long run that you should eat 150-250 calories to hold you over. She also spoke about making sure you have both water and some type of sports drink (Gatorade) etc to carry with you also. She did talk about GUtini's... Anyone ever heard of them? To make a GUtini you dump a few different Gu packets into a water bottle. She talked about using one from a fuel belt, which is a little bit smaller. She said she normally uses a few vanilla, and then might add in a chocolate, and then adds some water and makes it so it is not so thick, and you can drink it throughout your run. This way you don't have to worry about the sticky mess Gu packets make, plus if you don't like the thick taste, or don't want to do your whole Gu packet at one time, you can take a little bit at a time over your run. I thought this sounded like a good idea...I will have to try it soon, plus I love the name...GUtini!!!
Runs have been going ok...had a 7 miler on Saturday that I ended up doing on the treadmill. It was raining, and my husband had to be somewhere at 7am, so I got up around 5:30 and ran in the basement.
This morning I ran 4.5...again on the treadmill. It was an ok run, but my feet and knees hurt a little. Hoping the new shoes will help with this!!
This Saturday is 14 miles...a mileage PR for me!! The weather is suppose to be a little cooler, which I am excited about. Hope it makes the run better!

Have a great Tuesday!
XOXO
Stephanie

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

Running My "Socks" Off!

2010-07-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

Yes, the question of the day is...what running socks should I get?
I have never purchased true running socks since I started running. I have always worn my Under Armour socks that I purchased about 2 years ago. They work fine, but I know I need to invest in some really good running socks, and I just don't know what to go with???
There have been tons of review/giveaways of running socks going around in bloggy world, and I have entered into all of the contests, but have never won any. So, I am a "virgin" running sock wearer!
Please let me know what running socks your wear/prefer. I need to get some soon, and I need YOUR help!

Happy Running Wednesday!
XOXO
Stephanie

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

Training Nutrition Session Coming Soon

2010-07-27T11:31:00.000-07:00

I am really excited! This Thursday night a friend of mine that is running Chicago has gotten a friend of a friend of hers to come over and do a training nutrition session with us. She is a 4-time Iron Man Finisher and now a coach. She normally charges $150+/hr, but for us she is going to do it for free! She is hopefully going to tell us about what the best nutrition is during training, and what to eat before and after race day.
I am super excited! I am hoping to also get some information on how to balance eating while training and trying to lose weight.
I will let you guys all know what I learn, and hopefully I can help some of you with the same issues I am having!!!
XOXO
Stephanie

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

IDIOTS!!!

2010-07-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

Yes, this past Saturday in the 88 degree heat at 6am, me and my two friends set out to do 12 miles...I mean, with that kind of distance, we should have just done a full 13.1, but I tell you...with the heat and the humidity, I was sooo ready to be done, done, done at mile 12.
The first 6 miles, I was feeling really good! We talked and took in the scenery! We were out at Creve Coure Park, where we have run before, but because it was only an 8 mile loop we decided to go off the of park path and head towards Katye Trail. There were a few hills, but we knew coming back we would be able to go down those hills!!! The first 1.5 miles were pretty much in the shade. The next 4.5 were not. At the half way point we fueled, stretched a little and set out to head back. This is where I started feeling really, really dizzy!!!
Oh yeah, back up a minute...I bet you are wondering what the "Idiots" mean...well, we were running on this dirt trail, around mile 6.5. We were three across, and we saw a biker coming up on us...pretty far away! My friend Kris was on the side left, where she would have to be the one to move over...So, as we see him, again, pretty far away, he starts screaming..."ARE YOU GUYS GOING TO MOVE, OR AM I GOING TO HAVE TO RIDE RIGHT THROUGH YOU!?!?" Kris moves over and he then flys past us screaming "IDIOTS!!!" My response..."How Rude!!!" I kind of, sort of hate bikers. I just feel like they are always rude, and this just firmed up my thinking!!!
Anyways, back to the run...We stopped again around mile 9, and I was feeling it! I was almost out of water, and was really dizzy, and hungry! I took the last of my Chomps, swigged a little of my friend Becki's gatorade, and we were off to finish the last 3 miles. The dang problem was the HEAT! It was just sooo hot, and without any shade, it was horrible. I kept having to close my eyes to keep my eyes from getting blurry! I ended up stopping once and walking a little, and I told Becki and Kris to keep going, but as soon as we hit 10.5 miles, we were back on the shaded trail, and I felt sooo much better! We finished up the 12 miles in a little over 2 hours. I was sooo excited to get in the air conditioning of my car and to get some water!!! I was sooo thirsty!
I am glad to have it done, and I did another 4.5 miles this morning on the treadmill, and felt pretty good! This weekend calls for only 7 miles. I just hope this 90+++ heat goes away soon...It sure makes for horrible trainings!!!
How was your runs this weekend?
Also, I know there are sooo many giveaways going on in bloggy world, and we all LOVE them!!! I was contacted by someone at Giveaway Scout about having my giveaways advertised with them, when I am having them. This will promote more traffic to my site, plus I can go on Giveaway Scout and see what giveaways are going on in the cyber world. If you like giveaways as much as I do, check them out! You can even sign up to have giveaways in the categories that you choose emailed to you when a new giveaway is posted.

Have a great running week! I have a 5 miler, a 6 miler and a 7 miler on the schedule this week! Hope it cools down so I can enjoy them!
XOXO
Stephanie

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

Running, Running and More Running....Oh Yeah and a Giveaway Winner!

2010-07-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

Well, that is pretty much what I have been doing...RUNNING! I am in week 5 of my training for the Chicago Marathon. It has been going suprisingly good! I have not missed a run, and our long run on Saturday of 10 miles in 90+ heat at 6ish in the morning turned out OK. We started a little after 6am in Kirkwood, MO. Kris had mapped out a run path through the area using Mapmyrun.com It took us all around the area. It started out good because it was mainly more of a downhill in the beginning in the shade. But at around mile 4 we started to make the loop back to our cars, and we were running into the sun, with the sun beating down on us and it was uphill. It was pretty darn tough. We stopped a few times to make sure everyone stayed together, plus to drink some water. There was another BIG hill around mile 8.5 that we ended up walking up. We were walking faster than we could have ran it, so we didn't feel too bad doing this. We ended the 10 miles at right around 1hr 42 minutes. Not too bad considering how freakin hot it was!!! I swear, we are going to have to start these longer runs at 4am to get them in before the heat pops out.
I also ran both of my 4.5 milers last week and a 6 miler on my own.
This week calls for 2-4.5 miles, 1-6 miler, 1-12 miler.
I got up at 4am yesterday morning and ran my first 4.5 miles on the treadmill before work. I felt great!! It is always so nice to have a day off (Sunday) and then run on fresh legs! Last night I headed to Body Combat...I hadn't been in over a week and was missing it! My legs were tired, so I concentrated more on my abs and arms.
Today is speed work. I am trying to decide whether or not I will head in to St. Louie to meet up with the girls for speed work, or if I will just go to our local track after my son goes to bed. The training calls for 12x400's, so this wouldn't be too bad to do on my own. What should I do???
One thing I wanted to ask everyone is about weight loss...I know everyone talks about this all of the time, but I am simply frustrated. I just don't seem to lose ANY weight while running...I actually gain! It is frustrating, because as much as I know I am getting toned, I still feel yucky, bloated and my clothes don't seem to fit any better. What am I doing wrong? I have started to count calories really closely, and drink plenty of water, but I really, really, really want to lose some weight during training. I will feel better about myself, plus I know this will improve my running. If anyone has any suggestions, please pass them on!!! Please and thank you!
Ok, ok, ok...I know...the only reason you have read this long is to see who the winner of the 26.2 necklace is...soooo, after 80 entries, I used Random.org and the winner is:

Tonia at Racing With Babes

(Yea, one of my favorite bloggers to follow)

Congrats Tonia...please email me your address at: stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com and I will mail it out to you! (Thank you to everyone who entered, and to Akemi at Fly Jewelry for hosting such a fun giveaway...check out her shop HERE)

Hope you are having a good running week so far, and please let me know if you have any good tips for losing weight during training!

XOXO
Stephanie

{If you would like YOUR product or website featured on "Girls Just Wanna Go Run" please email me at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com}

Update on 26.2 Giveaway

2010-07-13T12:53:00.000-07:00

Sorry guys, forgot one entry into my contest HERE.
If you link this giveaway on your blog, on facebook, twitter it, or whatever else there is to do out there, you will receive 2 enteries per link.
So get linking away!!!! (and leave a comment here letting me know you did)

Sneak Peak: CSN Stores Review Coming Soon

2010-07-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

Well, it's going to be a HOT one here today! And because I decided to sleep in this morning, I have to get my run in this afternoon in the 90+ degrees. I will do it though, because at 4pm today, I am on VACATION! Me and my husband are taking a few days off to get some stuff done around the house and it's his b-day this Friday, so we have a fun filled weekend planned...Can't wait!!! Don't worry, I will still get all of my runs in, plus my 10 miler on Saturday.

I recently was contacted by CSN Stores to do a fun review on one of their millions and trillions of items. I mean, they have over 200 online stores with just about anything you could possibly ever want! You can find fun bean bag chairs, awesome wine racks, LED lighting or a fire pit for your patio. Where can you possibly shop that you can find such an aray of items for every room in your home. You have to check out CSN stores HERE to find that perfect item for you!

Super chic Kettlebells! I NEED these for my workout room!

An awesome Food Processor! Always wanted one of these.

Dart Board for the basement. Fun for the whole family!

So as you can see, I have my work cut out for me. What do I choose? I guess you will have to wait and see. My review will be coming soon. Stay Tuned! Until then, check out what CSN Stores have to offer. I don't think you will be disappointed!

Don't forget to enter into my giveaway HERE!

26.2 Necklace Giveaway

2010-07-12T13:12:00.000-07:00

This past week/weekend was filled with visions of 26.2 in my head! I have offically completed week 4 of marathon training, and have entered into week 5. This morning I did a bright and early 4.5 miles on the treadmill. It felt fairly good, except for a slight pain in my knees. Otherwise, I felt great! I also offically started WW online again on Saturday. I have done GREAT Saturday, Sunday and so far today! My mom is actually going to the meetings, so I am getting tips from her etc. It is a lot easier to do when you exercise a lot. I am going to have over 30 extra activity points for this week, so that helps, because on WW I am ALWAYS hungry!! I did buy some yummy watermelon and pineapple yesterday, so that will help crave my sweet tooth.

Now, onto my newest giveaway...Akemi at Fly Jewelry was nice enough to not only send me a gorgeous 26.2 necklace, but she also sent one for me to give to one of my followers! I know that a lot of us have either been training for the BIG 26.2, or have done one in the past, or I am sure there are many that have dreams to complete a marathon. Either way, this necklace is for you!!! Whether you wear it proud now, or save it for later, this is a beautiful necklace that I know I will be proud to wear once I reach the Chicago finish line in October.

Fly Jewelry also offers fabulous necklaces for all distances, tri's or just for someone that wants to "Fly" to reach their dreams! Whether that is in a race, or in life...I believe everyone needs some angel wings to help them "Fly", and Fly Jewelry has just that! Please take some time, check out Akemi's website, and then come back and enter into win!

How to enter:
1. Become a follower of my blog, or let me know you already are.
2. Visit Fly Jewelry HERE and let me know what items you LOVE!
3. Visit Fly Jewelry HERE and "favorite" Akemi's website on Etsy
4. Visit Fly Jewelry on Facebook and become a fan

This giveaway will run through Monday July 19th. The winner will be announced on Tuesday! Good luck!

Hair Candy Headband Review

2010-07-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

Last night I wasn't able to meet up for speed work in St. Louis. Of course....life got in the way! I didn't let this discourage me, I just made alternate plans. I got in my running clothes right after work, and after I got my son down to bed around 7:30pm, I headed to the local track to do my own speed work. I actually got the training plan from the running website that I would have done in St. Louis, and did it by myself. I used my Garmin to track my exact distance and time, but used my old heart rate monitor watch for timing. The plan called for 6x800. Each one had to be done in no longer than 7 minutes, before you started the next 800. I needed to get in 4.5 miles so I did two warm up laps, 7x800, and then two cool down laps. I am really starting to like speed work, and am really getting the hang of how to do it! I was a sweaty mess when I was done!!
Because I had a little bit more time to plan my outfit, I decided to try out a new headband I had received a week or so ago from Emily at Deshler Designs. She was nice enough to mail me a really cute Hair Candy non-slip headband in black with white polka dots. Sooo freakin cute, and will go with EVERYTHING!!! I put it on and headed out. I really liked the way it fit, and looked, and during the whole 4.5 miles, I didn't think a second thought about it. Here I am with it in before my run:

And here I am afterwards....

Still in the same place...I can tell you it worked great! Deshler Designs offers sooo many different options of headbands from something simple like mine, to really bright and colorful! They come in both thick and thin options, and for a great price. You can check her shop out HERE. What a great addition to any girls running drawer!
Thanks again Emily for the great headband...I will for sure use this on many more runs to come!!

Happy Monday...Errr Tuesday!! (Giveaway Winner)

2010-07-06T07:27:00.000-07:00

This week is starting out as the "Happy Monday...I mean Tuesday" type of week. This has screwed up my running for the week, because yesterday instead of getting my Monday morning run in, I slept in and then spent the whole day with my family. By last night I had a ton of laundry to do, and no motivation to run (plus the Bachelorette was on...and the Jake vs Vienna special)...so good!!
So, I had my alarm set to run first thing this morning, and then I have speed work tonight. But I wasn't feeling good in the middle of the night, and this kept up until about 7:30 this morning. I felt really yucky!!! I feel better now, but it made me miss my run :(
So, now I have to fit in 3 runs before Saturday, so it looks like speed work tonight, a 4am run tomorrow morning, and a 4am run Thursday morning. We then have 6 scheduled for Saturday morning.

This past Saturday was an 8 miler, and it went really good! I met my friend Becki at 6am and we set out. The first few miles were a little rough for me (they always are) but at around 4 miles, I felt really good and we finished the 8 miles in 1hr 19min. We then did some abs on a blanket by the lake, and then I headed to Gold's Gym to meet my sister for an hour of Body Combat. So, needless to say I burned approx. 1200 calories Saturday morning...such a good feeling!

Now, on to the winner of my Life Your Sole, Zebra Print Travel Mug...I used random.org and out of 71 entries, it drew 31.....

ANGIE AT BAREFOOD ANGIE BEE

CONGRATS ANGIE, AND THANK YOU TO

EVERYONE THAT ENTERED!
(angie, please send me your email address to pass on to Jill)

ALSO A HUGE THANK YOU TO JILL AT LIFT YOUR SOLE

FOR PROVIDING SUCH A FUN GIVEAWAY!

Also, I want to welcome all of my new followers!! 102 yea, yea!!!

Speed Work Frenzy!!!

2010-07-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

Well, the first two weeks of speed work have been great! I think it really helps to mix things up and add in something different. I do have to drive approx. 45 minutes (to go with my friends) but it is worth it! Fleet Feet, a running group in St. Louis, hosts it and approx. 30 people are there. The first time I was a little nervous, because I could tell that these folks meant business!!! But after we started, it didn't really seem to matter. It was nice to be able to run for a little bit, and then take a break. Plus, you had someone "coaching" you through it, plus all of the other runners were so supportive!
This past Tuesday I met up with my friend Kris for speed work. It started at 7pm, and I got there a little early, so we were able to get in 2 laps around the track before the warm up with the group. We did another warm up lap with the group, and then it was time to start.
This week we were to do 12x400's under 4 minutes. The first 7 were at our own pace. On the 8th-12th, we were suppose to meet or beat our previous time, and if we didn't we were out! (I was a little nervous about this)
It was a gorgeous night...temps in the low 80's! The first 7 laps we were consistently coming in around 2:10. The 8th lap we ran a little slower, especially since we were going to have to beat this time the next time around. We ran it at 2:12. The 9th lap was at 2:10, 10th lap 2:08, 11th lap 2:05 and the 12th lap was at 1:55! Crazy!!!
It was such a fun combo to do, and it was nice to have to only do one lap and then have a break. We ended the day with 2 cool down laps, which put our total mileage at 4.25.

I really think I am going to continue to do the speed work. It is a great way to get a run in, and mix it up a little so you don't feel like you are doing the same thing EVERY run.

Here is my running schedule, and it seems to really work:
Monday morning (4:00am)- 4 mile treadmill run
Tuesday evening (7:00pm)- 4 mile speed work done on the track with friends
Thursday morning (4:00am)- 5 mile treadmill run
Saturday or Sunday morning (6:00am)- Long run done outside with friends

This combo has kept things interesting so far, plus provides me with both outside and inside runs, runs with and without friends, and are at different times of the day! The morning runs, as much as they suck when the alarm goes off, they are awesome once you are done!!! Check your run off for the day, and now you can spend time with family etc in the evening!
I know when I trained for my half, my only real true "good" run was the long run on the weekends, when I would meet up with my friends. Otherwise, "life" always seemed to get in the way during the week when I waited until the evening to run. For anyone starting out with a training program, I really think mixing up what you do and trying to get your runs done early or with friends really helps!

Also, don't forget about my GIVEAWAY HERE its a "wild" one!!!

Fun, Fun, Fun Giveaway!

2010-06-30T10:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Hump Day!
I have another fun giveaway for all of my followers (new and old)!!
I ran across this company (no pun intended) at the Go St. Louis Expo. Lift Your Sole is a great company that helps every runner embrace the true runner in themselves! Jill at Lift Your Sole is devoted to offering her customers "a great shopping experience that includes being easy to reach by email or phone, offering the option to customize your own jewelry or handbag, having fair prices, and a stress-free return policy."

She does all of this while being able to offer beautiful running jewelry for any type of running you might enjoy, plus creative accessories to make you that much more of a "cool" runner!
At the Go St. Louis Expo I picked up an awesome Zebra Print Travel Mug that had 13.1 in hot pink. This was just up my alley, and is something I use ALL of the time while I sip my coffee on the drive to my training runs. How cute to have such a fun mug to drink out of, plus to show people that, "Yes, I am a runner!"

Jill has so graciously offered a FREE Zebra Print Travel Mug with the option of 13.1, 26.2 or Run printed on it in hot pink to one of my followers! Now you can be as cool as me!!!:)

Also, to EVERYONE Jill is offering 10% off of any purchase for 10 hours. To get the discount just enter girlsjustwannarun10 at the check out. How awesome is that!!! YOU HAVE TO CHECK OUT HER STUFF!!!

To Enter The Giveaway:

1. Become a follower of my blog, or let me know you already are
2. Go to the Lift Your Sole Website and sign up for their newsletter
3. Become a Fan of Lift your Sole on Facebook
4. Link this Giveaway to your blog, facebook page or twitter.

The giveaway will run through Tuesday July 6th. The winner will be announced on Wednesday. Good luck and happy entering!!!

Running Breakdown...Week 3 of Marathon Training

2010-06-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

So sorry for the MIA business! Life/Work has been super hectic, along with marathon training! I can tell you this...marathon training is going GREAT!!! I am into the 3rd week of training, and here is my breakdown of workouts/runs:

Week 1:
Sunday 3 mile run
Monday 4 mile run
Tuesday off
Wednesday off
Thursday 5 mile run
Friday off
Saturday 6 mile run

Week 2:
Sunday off
Monday SICK :(
Tuesday 4 mile morning run...4 mile speed work in the evening= 8 miles total
Wednesday off
Thursday 5 mile run
Friday off
Saturday Body Combat

Week 3:
Sunday 7 mile run
Monday(today) 4 mile run

I plan on doing a 4 mile speed work tomorrow night, get in a 5 mile run on Thursday morning, and hopefully do some weights Thursday night and then do a long run of 8 miles on Saturday morning.
It has been hot here, but running/my motivation to run, has been great! I feel strong when I run and am proud when I complete one of my runs, plus I love to track it on my tracker!
I plan on doing a post about my speed work I am doing. I am going to try to do it once a week on Tuesday nights. Hope it helps!

Hope everyone is having a great running summer! I will be back with some more info on my training, plus how I am fueling different this time around. Stay tuned!
Happy Running!
Stephanie

And the Winner Is.....

2010-06-22T07:11:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who entered my giveaway for the AWESOME necklace that My3Gemz was giving away! I used Random.org and here are the results:

True Random Number Generator
Min: 1
Max: 99
Result: 36

WINNER IS: JAMIE @ RUNNING DIVA MOM

Congrats Jamie! Thank you for following me and for entering my contest! Please send me your address at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com and I will make sure My3Gemz gets in contact with you so you can place your order.

A running recap from the past few days will be coming soon!!!:)

Freakin Fantastic Friday!!!

2010-06-18T07:46:00.000-07:00

So, Friday is finally here! This week has been a little hectic/off schedule for me. My daycare was closed on Monday and Tuesday so my sister came over to watch my little man. Then Wednesday I was off, because little man had surgery (ear tubes and tear duct probing) He was a champ and is doing great!
So, yesterday was a blur, and now...here we are...Friday!
I have been doing great with my training this week!
I did a 3 miler Sunday, a 4 miler on Monday and then Thursday morning got up at 4am and ran a 5 miler while I finished watching Mama Mia! I tell ya, the first 2-2.5 miles on a treadmill sucks! but then once you get past that, it's not too bad.
Tomorrow morning I am meeting my Chi-town girls (there are 3 of us running the Chicago Marathon in October) for a 6 miler at Forest Park. We are going to try to meet up early, early and to try to beat the heat! I have to be home by 7:30am too, because my hubbie has a tee time at 7:58am with my Dad.
I hope to then be able to make Body Combat at Gold's at 9am.
That afternoon we are heading to my parents for a fish fry to celebrate Father's Day.
Sunday we are meeting my husband's family for breakfast, and then he has a softball game at 11.
Hoping to then relax and enjoy some family time Sunday afternoon.

I want to say HI-YA to all of my new followers!

I am soooo glad you joined!

Also, don't forget to enter my giveaway..... (HERE)

It ends Monday June 21st!

Happy Running,
Stephanie

Marathon Training Kick-Off Giveaway

2010-06-14T15:03:00.000-07:00

I have decided to do a giveaway to kick-off my first week of marathon training.

I ran across a wonderful jeweler on Etsy.com called My3Gemz. You have to check her website out HERE. She handstamps wonderful jewelry using sterling silver, 14kg and genuine gemstones. They have such beautiful pieces. You have to check them out!!!!

My3Gemz has so generously given me an awesome necklace to giveaway to one of my loyal readers!

This beautiful necklace can be customized with any distance (13.1 etc) to fit whichever race you would like! Every necklace is handstamped with a swarovski crystal attached to add a little bling! As My3Gemz states, "Perfect reward for all of that hard work!" I think this would be just perfect for my first marathon coming up...What do ya think!?!?

This necklace retails for only $35 in My3Gemz store, but here on my blog on lucky person will win it for FREE!

Please leave seperate entries for each one:

1. Become a follower of my blog, or let me know you already are

2. Visit My3Gemz HERE, shop around and tell me what other items you would like

3. Visit My3Gemz HERE and "favorite" their site

4. Visit My3Gemz on Facebook HERE and become a fan

5. Post this giveaway on your blog, facebook page or twitter about it (You will get 1 entry per comment)

Enter now through Monday June 21st. I will announce a winner on Tuesday.

Mama Mia...Here I go again...

2010-06-14T06:44:00.000-07:00

Yep, here I go again....TRAINING HAS BEGUN!
I actually started somewhat yesterday. I wanted to go to a 9am Body Flow class, and decided to get to the gym early to try to get in 4 miles. I only had time for 3, but they were 3 pretty darn good miles!!
Then I went to Body Flow...which is AMAZING! If you've never tried it, or sometime like yoga or tai chi, you don't know what you are missing. It is just such a great thing to do after a run. I wish I could incorporate it more throughout my week, on top of everything else. It is such a good stretching class, plus you work on balance, and the ab track is sooo hard, but good! So, after 60 minutes of that, and then the last track you lay there all stretched out and just let you body relax...it is sooo cool! You can even feel your mouth relax. It was a great workout/relax day!
This morning I DID IT...I got my butt out of bed at 4:15am and jumped on the treadmill. Well, not really, because when I got down to the basement to run, I realized I forgot a sweat towel AND forgot to put my hair in a ponytail. What the heck!?!? So, I had to run back up and grab a running hat, and my sweat towel. Then I decided I would watch Mama Mia...I have owned this DVD for a few years, and have NEVER watched it. Not that I haven't wanted to, but since I have had my son, I don't normally watch movies unless my husband is watching with me, and Mama Mia isn't his first choice.
So, I popped it in the DVD player and started off on my 4 mile run. It was a little tough in the beginning, but the music from Mama Mia was awesome to keep me pumped (might be a few new downloads on my I-Pod from there coming real soon!) Around mile 3, my toes on my right foot started burning!!! For the last two days I have been trying some new shoe liners, I received in a giveaway. I can tell you right now, if the toe burning keeps up, I will be yanking those suckers out of my shoes, real quick!
But, I finished my 4 miles and finished with a nice cool down walk. I wanted to keep walking, because I was really into the movie, but I had to get off and back upstairs to get ready for work.
So far, marathon training is a success!!! (Ask me that in a few weeks...) I am going to try to get in a 5 miler (possibly tomorrow or Thurs), and then I am meeting the girls Saturday morning for a 6 miler.
CHI-TOWN....HERE I COME!!! :)

2010 Chicago Marathon Training Plan

2010-06-11T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
A few of you have asked what type of training plan I will be following for my marathon training this summer. I think we are going to be using the Nike Running Plan, but will only be doing 3 runs/week. Four runs a week is just too much for me to fit in and stresses me out. I want to do a plan that will work for me and I will stick with. I know that I am going to have to make sure I get in the 3 runs, plus like I mentioned we will hopefully be including some speed work into the training. It sounds like this can really help!
I hope to continue to do some cross-training, to include Body Combat, weights and/or the 30 Day Shred, but I am really going to focus on the running. I tried to do too much during 1/2 marathon training, and this sometimes caused me to skip my running days because I was too tired or felt guilty for being gone another evening.
I will see how this training plan works. I am going to be printing out my own calendar for each month and writing in each of my runs/workouts to help keep myself accountable. I also want to really watch my calorie intake during this training...running makes me sooo hungry, but I know that just because I ran that day, I can't just eat whatever I want, and as much as I want. I need to really watch this, so hopefully this time around I can lose some weight, and keep it off.
So, for now that is my plan. This week it calls for 2-4mi runs, 1-5mi run and a 6 mile run. I will only be doing 1-3 to 4 mile run, 1-5 mile run and the 6 mile run next Saturday.

Happy running this weekend!
Stephanie

Marathon Training Begins in 4 days...AAAHHHHHH!

2010-06-10T09:15:00.000-07:00

I know I have been MIA in the last week or so. Nothing much going on in the running world for me right now...I was planning on doing a 5K last weekend, but other plans came up, and because I hadn't already signed up, I decided not to do it.

I have been doing a lot of Body Combat at the gym and plan to do some Body Flow this weekend, before the BIG day gets here. Next Monday June 14th officially starts...dum, ta, dum...MARATHON TRAINING!!
I am both excited, scared and kind-a-sorta not motivated to start running all of those crazy miles again, but I think once I start, I will get the running bug again!...hopefully!
I plan to run a 3 miler and a 5 miler next week to prepare myself for our first long run of 6 miles on Saturday June 19th.
We are also talking about incorporating some "speed" work into the training...not really sure how you do it, or what all the 800x2, 1400x4 means (or something like that), but I guess I will learn...I do know it incorporates a track! (I will feel like I am back in high school!:)
One of the running groups with Fleet Feet in St. Louis holds free speed work training every Tuesday with advice from a running coach. How cool! It would be a little bit of a drive, but I know that is the only way I will be able to get in the "speed" work...because, like I mentioned, I really don't know what the heck it is...except, probably RUN FASTER!!!

So, that is an update on me...I have switched from using Weight Watchers Online to more of a calorie based food regime. I got an I-Phone last week, which I freakin LOVE!!! and I am able to get My Fitness Pal on their, so I have been using that site to help track my calories/workouts. I LOVE IT!!! It is soooo handy to have a calculator with you at all times. Haven't lost anything yet, but hopefully once I up my miles, and still watch my eating, I will start noticing some weight loss.
Hope everyone is having a great summer so far!
I hope to have more posts once training begins...I will need everyones encouraging words as I get into the higher mileage (especially with the temps getting up there...90+ degress...AWWWW!)

P.O.P.U.L.A.R....Are you?

2010-05-28T14:11:00.000-07:00

Alright, already....I have finally received the Versatile blogger award...not sure what the heck it means, but I am now the "cool" kid on the block, and not the "loser" who didn't receive any awards, while other bloggers are getting a gazillionmillion of them!! The wonderful, awesome and totally diva-like Jamie at Running Diva Mom gave me this...She is soooo totally awesome, and I'm not just saying that because she gave me this award (or am I???)

Anyways, I am suppose to list 7 things about myself and then give this to other people to make them feel as cool as me. I swear, with all of these bloggie awards going around in bloggy land, I almost feel like this is some sort of popularity contest...AND I AM NOW POP!!! But seriously, where do these things start? Is this a way to make other bloggers feel insecure and inadequate if they don't receive the award...yes, no, maybe....Anyways, no more need to worry for me...I am now in the popular crowd!! WHOOP, WHOOP!

So, 7 things about me...hmmmm (I just listed 50 things about me not to long ago...can I think of 7 more interesting facts...)

1. I have naturally blue eyes, but for some reason wore turquoise blue colored contacts for over 8yrs. I finally decided to stop, and now I get tons more compliments on my natural eye color than I did when I wore contacts.

2. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to shop! If I could become a professional shopper, I would. I always list out things I would buy if someone would give me $1000. Hopefully someday I will be able to put my lists to good use!

3. I love to wear high heels...the higher the better! I am already 5'8, but I feel sooo stumpy if I am wearing flats. My husband is 6'5, so I have nothing to worry about.

4. I love white cheddar rice cakes!

5. I love Sex in the City, and CAN NOT wait until me and my girlfriends go and see SC2.

6. I do love to run, but am nervous to start marathon training over the summer. I have a feeling the heat is going to kill me!

7.I stress about my weight and my appearance A LOT! I am always trying new diets/food changes and trying new hair colors, makeup etc. Lets just say I am a work in progress!!!:)

So, to name some others to take this prestigious, POPULAR award:

Jenn @ http://runningsane.blogspot.com/

DW @ http://missredrunner.blogspot.com/

Monica @http://wifemomteacherjogger.blogspot.com/

April @ http://mommysfitfortheking.blogspot.com/

Alicia @ http://aliciaruns.blogspot.com/

Velma @ http://jacksonandcarter.blogspot.com/

Brandi @ http://georgebundlesfitness.blogspot.com/

Congrats girls...you are now one of us!!!

Making Tracks for the Zoo 5K Race Recap

2010-05-24T07:52:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday was the Making Tracks for the Zoo 5K. Both my friends Becki and Kris were going to be running it too! I couldn't wait to get back out there for a "fun" 5K. I told Beck that she was going to be my pacing coach, and our goal was to run 9 minute miles!

Me, Craig and Logan got out to the zoo around 7:15am. It was a gorgeous morning, and I knew that the heat would start rising soon. It was suppose to be around 92ish that day. Becki had picked up my race packet the day before, so I didn't have to worry about that. We made it to the starting area to wait for Beck and Kris.
They both got there around 7:40, and we got to take some pics with the kids. Ryan, Becki's husband had came with Libby, and Kris was going to be pushing Weston in the jogging stroller.

We had heard that this year they had changed up the course a little, and there was going to be some hills (yuck!...last year's was all flat) We said good bye to the guys and kiddos and headed to the starting area. Me and Beck stepped in behind the 9 minute mile sign...Kris had to head to the back, because she was pushing a stroller.

The gun went off, and we were off! We started at a really good pace! The first mile was pretty comfortable, and we clocked it at 8:50ish (under 9 minutes) The second mile is where the hills started...There were two pretty big hills that slowed us down, and later Beck said at one time we were doing around a 10 minute pace up the biggest hill. At the halfway point, they had a water station, so Beck grabbed some water, and we kept going. (I was carrying my handheld) By this time, the sun was beating down on us, and it was really humid! Fortunately this is where we started to see some of the downhills, which was GREAT, and we were hoping to make up some time as we went down.

As we approached mile 3, Beck started "Jillian Michaeling" me, and tell me that when we hit the 3 mile maker, we would book it the last .10 of a mile. She was telling me, you can do this...come on!!!
It was great motivation, and even greater motivation when a lady came up to us and told us that we could do this...she was pregnant, and we couldn't let a pregnant woman beat us:)
So, at the 3 mile marker, we started sprinting to the finish line! I saw Logan and Craig and smiled and waved!! My little cheerers!
I finished the 5K in 27 minutes 46 seconds, with at pace of 8:57. What a great run! I was sooo proud of myself, and glad that Beck was there to push me to the finish!
Kris came by a few minutes later, pushing Weston, and doing an awesome job!

Afterwards, we headed to get our free breakfast that they provided, and went to see the Hippos with the kids!

I had such a fun run, and it was nice to be able to get back out there and compete!

Note: I am at 60 FOLLOWERS! Thank you to all of my followers!!!

Current Giveaways Going on:

Running Diva Mom- Chill Towels (ends May 27th)

Run, Zoe, Run- Insole Giveaway (ends 6/4)

I FEEL FAMOUS!!!!!!!!!

2010-05-19T14:43:00.000-07:00

Look what I just found on the Go St. Louis Website(click on the link below; I am the 4th from the left)...It is a picture of me and a few friends that ran the 10K Halloween run last year. We are the picture they are displaying on the home page of the Go St. Louis website advertising the 10K for this year. How freakin cool is that!!!
I feel famous!!!!!!!!!!

CLICK HERE:
http://www.gostlouis.org/

Yea for 5K!

2010-05-19T07:29:00.000-07:00

Last night I attempted a practice run for my 5K race this weekend. I haven't done much running since my half marathon back in April, and thought I should hit the road and see how I could do on a 5K. I did a .25 mile warm up walk, and then took off. The first mile or so, was a little bit slower, because I have realized that I need to start out slower. It was a beautiful night with a cool breeze. Before I started out I realized that my I-Pod was dead, so I had to borrow my husbands. He has the big ole' I-Pod, so that was a little uncomfortable on my arm, but at least I had some tunes to listen to.
At mile 2, I was starting to really feel good. I picked up the pace a little. Out of nowhere, a bird hopped out of the grass (when do birds hide in grass, and hop out at you???) It scared me to death, but I just jumped over the bird and continued on.
I was getting close to home, and still had about another .50 to do before I would be at 3.1, so I ran past my cul-de-sac, and started to really push it to be done. I was feeling pretty good, but was dripping sweat and was starting to get a little thirsty! I finished the 3.1 miles at 29.05. Not my best time, but pretty good knowing that I hadn't done much running in the last month or so. Here is my breakdown per my Garmin (still working on a name for him/her???)
Mile 1: 9:50
Mile 2: 9:35
Mile 3: 9:20
.1: 1:00
Total: 29.05

I felt good when I got back home! During my run I had some different thoughts back on my half marathon, and things leading up to my half. I hope to post this in the next few days. I hope it doesn't show any negativity, but just some thoughts of the running world from a newbie runner...I think this insight is going to help me in my marathon training to come....STAY TUNED!
PLUS, 59 FOLLOWERS...YAHOO! ONLY ONE MORE UNTIL I HIT 60...WHO'S IT GOING TO BE!?!?

Cool Stuff being given away...better go check it out!
Running Diva Mom: EOS Lip Balm Giveaway (ends 5/23)
Endurance Isn't Only Physicial: RxSorbo Insole Giveaway (ends 5/25)
Run To the Finish: Straw Giveaway (ends 5/21)
Fashion Meets Food: Smooth Giveaway (ends today)
Long Legs on the Loose: Sweaty Bands Giveaway (ends 5/23)
Secrets of a Running Mom: One More Mile Giveaway (ends 5/30)

Wellness Wins Program....And Marathon Training Schedules

2010-05-18T13:38:00.000-07:00

Well, this morning was the end of the Wellness Wins Program at my work. What is Wellness Wins you ask...It is a 16 week program that my work has done for 2 years in a row. There is criteria you have to follow and testing you have to do, but if you complete everything like you should, you can win up to $200. Every employee can get $200....Isn't that freakin awesome!!!!:)
I participated in it last year and got the full $200. This year I was super excited to sign up!
It started in January and ran through today. Before starting, you have to attend a screening day, where they take your height and weight, you Body Fat %, your BMI, your blood pressure reading, and you have to get a cholesterol and gluose blood draw.
The purpose over the next 16 weeks is to either maintain your weight or your stats, if you are where you want/need to be, or lose weight if you are overweight or your stats are not where they should be. To do this, some of the things that everyone has to do is. There is a point system of each criteria. Each point value equals a dollar amount (example 20 points equals $20) The total amount of points you can get is 200 points, or $200.
THE CRITERIA:
BMI/Body Fat- 20 Points
Your BMI must fall in the range of 18.5-24.9 or in the normal recommended body fat range for his/her age and gender or an employee must lose an average of one pound per week for the duration of the challenge.
Blood Pressure- 15 Points
An employee must have a blood pressure reading with systolic pressure 120 or less and diastolic pressure 80 or less or the employee must reduce his/her blood pressure by 10% during the challenge.
Fitness Exercise Program- 15 Points
An employee must participate in a regular physicial activity, a minimum of three days per week, for at least 30 minutes per day. This must be loged on the offical challenge log. This can include walking, cycling, joggin, tennis, basketball, weights, yoga or an exercise class.
Total Cholestoerol- 15 Points
An employee must have a fasting total cholesterol level less than 200mg or an employee must have a total/HDL ratio of 3.5:1 or below.
Blood Glucose Level- 15 Points
An employee must have a fasting glucose level between 70-99mg.
Wellness Activites- 10 Points
An employee must participate in or attend at least four health-related events or preventive screenings during the challenge period. Proof must be provided.
Tobacco Free- 5 Points
Must be tobacco free during the program.
Current on Mandatory Health Screenings- 5 Points
Must be current on all mandatory hospital health screening tests.

So, needless to say, the past 16 weeks I have been following the program. Today when I went in to turn in my things, and see how I had done, here is the outcome for me:
Weight: I lost 1lb
BMI Week 1: 23.8
BMI Week 16: 23.3
Body Fat% Week 1: 25.2%
Body Fat% Week 16: 23.5% (HUGELY PROUD OF)
Blood Pressure Week 1: 112/72
Blood Pressure Week 16: 112/78

Plus I did at least 3 days of workouts throughout the course of the challenge, and I completed my 4 Wellness Wins Activities....1. Half Marathon 2. 5 Mile St. Patty's Day Run 3. Attended a Health Fair at work 4. Had my wellness exam completed.

So.....this means on my next pay check...CHHH-AAA-CHHH-III-NNN-GGG! $200
It is a really neat program that they do, and I have heard of people losing alot of weight during the program. I hope it is something they do again next year!!

So, one to my thoughts on marathon training schedules...I will begin my marathon training mid-June. I am still trying to decide which is the best program to go with. I would like to do an 18 week program with 3 days of running in it. Also, I need to figure out how to do the different runs...tempo,speed, track etc.
If anyone can give me any suggestions on programs to follow that have worked for them, along with helping me understand the different runs etc, that would be great!

This weekend I am running my first race since my half...Make Tracks for the Zoo 5K Wish me luck!!!

Workout Goals for the Week...Plus Eating Fresh!

2010-05-17T13:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday to everyone! I had a great relaxing weekend, but did not have much motivation to work out...Not sure what my deal was. I was suppose to get up and walk a 5K with my husband and son and a bunch of friends on Saturday morning for the American Heart Association, but because of the crappy weather and rain, we didn't go :(
So, instead of heading to the gym, like I should have, I hung out at home with my boys all day! That night we made some yummy dinner and an amazing dessert, and rented Brothers. It was an awesome movie!!! I recommend it!
Sunday was another chill day, because my husband was suppose to have a softball game at 9am, so we drove the 30 minutes to the game, to then find out it was cancelled.:(
We did stop by my parents house for a little bit, and then headed home to hang out and relax.
I enjoyed the weekend, but I did feel lazy and unmotivated. I knew I needed to get my butt up early this morning (which I did) and do my 30 Day Shred video (which I did) This made me feel tons better!

So, to recap my workouts from last week, and my goals for this week:

LAST WEEK:
Monday morning: 30 Day Shred
Monday evening: Body Combat
Tuesday evening: 30 Day Shred
Wednesday: off
Thursday evening: Body Pump
Friday morning: 30 Day Shred

THIS WEEK GOALS:
Monday morning: 30 Day Shred (Check)
Monday evening: Body Combat
Tuesday evening: 30 Day Shred and 3 mile run
Wednesday evening: Body Combat and 3 mile run
Thursday morning: 30 Day Shred
Thursday evening: HAIR CUT (YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
Friday: off
Saturday morning: 3 mile run and Body Combat
Sunday morning: 5K race at the St. Louis zoo

So, we will see how close I get to these goals...I am also really trying to watch what I eat; not only how much, but if it is fresh food and not processed. I love reading Bobbi's blog HERE about how she eats, and she is such an inspiration. I hope to be able to incorporate some of her healthy eating into what I do.

Current Giveaways out there....get out there and enter for some fun, freebies!!!
Fashion Meets Food: Smooth Giveaway (ends 5/19)
Long Legs on the Loose: Sweaty Bands Giveaway (ends 5/23)
Secrets of a Running Mom: One More Mile Giveaway (ends 5/30)

30 Day Shred

2010-05-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have only done the 30 Day Shred for two days (in a row!!) but, I think I really like it. I am still on level 1, but I think I will be moving up to level 2 soon. I really like it! It is the type of workout that you don't need long to do...only 20 minutes. Plus, with everyone saying it is SOOO hard, I can do ANYTHING hard for 20 minutes...right!?!

So, I think I will be sticking with this for now. My abs were SUPER sore this morning, which I always like! Feel like my when my abs are sore, that I have really been doing something!!!

So, I will see if I get it in tonight...Jillian Micheals...here I come!!!

Has anyone had good results with the 30 Day Shred? Are you suppose to do it 30 days in a row, or just for 30 days??? Not sure on this one.

Have a great night!~
Steph

Current Giveaways going on out there:

Racing with Babes: Sweaty Bands Giveaway (ends 5/18)
Tall Mom on the Run: Run Like a Mother Book Giveaway (ends 5/14)
Running Diva Mom: Laken & Lila Dress Giveaway (ends 5/13)
Endurance Isn't Only Physicial: Zero Water Pitcher Giveaway (ends 5/15)
Long Legs on the Loose: Shoelaces and and Saucony Tee-shirt (ends 5/15)
Julie's Running Blog: Very Cool First Giveaway (ends 5/22)
I Run Because...I Can: A Gym in a Bag Giveaway (ends 5/14)
Our Love on the Run: BeeCause Charm Giveaway (ends 5/20)
Happy Runner: Subway Giveaway (ends 5/17)
Run, Momma, Run: Cooking Giveaway (ends 5/18)
Fashion Meets Food: Walmart G.C. Giveaway (ends 5/14)
Barefoot Angie Bee: SweatyBands Giveaway (ends 5/14)
Dashing Diva Mom: Run Like a Girl Pendant Giveaway (ends 5/20)
Running off at the mouth: Sof Sole 1/2 marathon giveaway (ends 5/28)
I Have Run: Uprinting Canvas Giveaway (ends 5/14)

I'm Alive and Well....Plus Pics from Mexico

2010-05-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

I know it has been awhile since my last post. I have come back from Mexico, 3lbs heavier, and unmotivated and relaxed. It was an amazing trip, but kind of got me off of my working out/running kick. I did get in a few workouts last week:

Friday April 30th- tried spinning at Gold's for the first time...really liked it!
Saturday May 1st- Ran 3 miles on the treadmill and some weights and abs
Monday May 3rd- Body Combat
Thursday May 6th- Body Pump and ran 3 miles on the treadmill
Saturday May 8th- 3 mile run outside in the wind!
EARLY THIS MORNING- 30 Day Shred at 4:30am
LATER TONIGHT- Body Combat

Yep, you heard it right...I will be doing a two-a-day today! I have to kick my butt in gear...get my lazy a** off of the couch and back to some motivation! I need to get my drive and energy back! I am going to be doing the crazy 30 Day Shred in the mornings at least 3 days/week, and then trying to get to the gym for a cardio class at least 2-3 days/week, plus 2-3 runs/week. I have to, need to, darn near will hate myself, if I don't get this going! I was feeling ok about my body prior to leaving for Mexico, but after all of the food and drinks that were consumed and the non-existent desire I have had, I have to push myself and stick to it! Plus, I am working on trying a calorie style eating plan similar to what Mom vs Marathon has spoken about. I need to do something, because I have felt drained and not like myself...Stephanie....Where are you????

I have used this last week and a half to really evaluate where I want to go, and what I want to do to get there. I haven't stopped working out, but I haven't felt all there. I have been down on my body image and just not happy with myself. I hope this new plan and goal will help me get pumped back up!!!

Marathon training starts in approx. 6 weeks...CRAZY!!!!
I do plan on doing a few 5k's coming up...one being May 23rd, and the 2nd being on June 5th (this was my VERY first 5K last year) and possibly another in June.

I hope everyone is doing great, and I have been reading some really neat running stories on great races going on...BQ's, PR's galore!!! Yea for all of my inspirations...Hope to catch your bug and get back with it! Here I leave you with a few pictures from Mexico.....

Current Giveaways going on out there:

Racing with Babes: Sweaty Bands Giveaway (ends 5/18)

Tall Mom on the Run: Run Like a Mother Book Giveaway (ends 5/14)

Running Diva Mom: Laken & Lila Dress Giveaway (ends 5/13)

Endurance Isn't Only Physicial: Zero Water Pitcher Giveaway (ends 5/15)

Long Legs on the Loose: Shoelaces and and Saucony Tee-shirt (ends 5/15)

Run to the Finish: 3 Changes Contest (ends 5/13)

MissZippy: Running Chics Giveaway (ends 5/12)

Run, Courtney, Run: Lift You Sole Giveaway (ends 5/12)

Julie's Running Blog: Very Cool First Giveaway (ends 5/22)

I Run Because...I Can: A Gym in a Bag Giveaway (ends 5/14)

Our Love on the Run: BeeCause Charm Giveaway (ends 5/20)

Happy Runner: Subway Giveaway (ends 5/17)

Run, Momma, Run: Cooking Giveaway (ends 5/18)

Fashion Meets Food: Walmart G.C. Giveaway (ends 5/14)

Barefoot Angie Bee: SweatyBands Giveaway (ends 5/14)

Winner of MyBella Giveaway....and Off To Mexico I Go!

2010-04-23T09:58:00.000-07:00

Well, this week hasn't been my greatest workout week, but I did get in a nice 5 mile run on Monday, Body Combat on Wednesday and a 3 mile run on Friday. I have been super duper busy at work and home, plus....I have been getting ready for MEXICO!!!
Me and my husband leave tomorrow morning, super early, to head to the Riveria Maya until Wednesday. I truely can't wait! I am super sad though, because we are leaving our little man, but I know he is in good hands. I will just miss the heck out of him!!!
I have a lot of new clothes and shoes for the trip, along with a few new bathing suits...that is one of my favorite things about vacation....THE.NEW.CLOTHES!!
With my slacking of working out this week, I don't feel 100% about my body, but I don't think I ever do/will. I vow to have a blast, drink fun margaritas and eat yummy food, but try to keep everything in moderation! I don't want to come home to feel gross about myself. One thing I do know...I hope to come home with an AWESOME tan!!!
We are also going ziplining one of the days we are there(I have always wanted to do this) and I can't wait! Look for some fun pics from the trip soon!

Now, on to the winner of my first giveaway, a $20 MyBella Gift Certificate...Thank you to everyone who entered, and welcome to all of my new followers! I hope you've enjoyed things so far, and if you don't win, please take advantage of Liz's special, now through May 1st, where you can get FREE SHIPPING with ANY order. Just enter the code 'RBFS2010' into the comment section when you are making a purchase. She will refund your shipping through Paypal. Super easy! I ordered this necklace for myself. It was only $12. You can not beat that!(still waiting for it to arrive; and of course, it has an S on it):

I also am thinking about ordering a really neat Grandma necklace for my mom and my husband's mom for Mother's Day from my son. They are sooo super cute and affordable. So, don't delay, order your items today, while you can still get FREE SHIPPING! You can check out what Liz has to offer HERE plus read my review on her items HERE.

DRUM ROLL PLEASE....after using randomnumber.org,
it chose #5:
THE WINNER IS: TRISH @ KETELCOPIA

Trish, please send me your contact information at stephanie_walter0409@hotmail.com so that I can get it over to Liz so she can send you your MyBella Gift Certificate. Congrats to you!!

Please keep your eyes peeled for another giveaway once I get back from Mexico!
Have a great running week and talk to ya when I get back,
Stephanie

Virtual Race Recap....50 Followers, Oh Yeah!

2010-04-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

I wanted to welcome all of my new followers!!! I have reached the 50 mark...Heck Yeah!!! I am sooo glad you decided to follow me!
To celebrate my 50 followers, I will do what alot of others do....I will list 50 random things about myself...so, here ya go:
1. I have one sister, who is 23 and a nurse in St. Louis. My parents have been married for 33 years.
2. We both went to SEMO (Southeast Missouri State University...and my husband went to SEMO(this is where we met) and my SIL went to SEMO...and my two best friends went to SEMO...oh yeah, my sister's boyfriend(and most likely future husband) went to SEMO
3. We were all in sororities or faternities: Me- Delta Delta Delta; Sister- Alpha Delta Phi; Hubbie- Phi Delta Theta; SIL- Delta Delta Delta; 2 Best Friends- Alpha Chi Omega; Sis's BF- Pike (LOTS of legacies there!!!)
4. I wanted to be a police officer growing up...and I even got a degree in Criminal Justice.
5. I am now a physician recruiter for a hospital in Belleville, IL
6. I have broken my arms three times in two years....My right arm riding a bike; My left arm swinging on a rope; My right arm again roller skating
7. For years after that, my New Years resolution was to not break my arm(s)
8. I have naturally curly hair, and HATE IT!! I have straightened it everyday since sophomore year of college.
9. I played both softball and basketball in grade school and high school.
10. I have a passion for softball and wish I was still playing! I did play intramurals in college.
11. The best thing I have EVER done in my life (prior to getting married and having my baby boy) is having gone White Water rafting. I went for a college course to the Galley River in West Virginia. We camped out every night, made our own food, slept in tents for 5 days, went backpacking, mountain climbing and white water rafting. I came home thinking I could conquer the world! Such a life changing experience, and I hope to do it with my husband some day!
12. I didn't wear makeup the whole 5 days....THAT IS UNHEARD OF IN MY LIFE!:)
13. I met my husband away at college, but we grew up only 10 minutes from each other.
14. From the moment I met my husband, I knew we would be together forever!
15. We celebrated our 5 year wedding anniversary April 9th, 2010 (together for 8 years)
16. We leave this Saturday for Riveria Maya, Mexico to celebrate our anniversary.
17. When I had my son on Sunday September 28, 2008, it was THE best day of my life!
18. I had THE best labor and delivery, and wanted to do it again right after.
19. I HATED being pregnant!
20. I breastfeed my son until he was 10 months old, and loved every second of it!
21. I tell my son EVERY day that I will "Love him forever!"
22. I sing "You are my sunshine", "The sun will come out tomorrow", "Twinkle,twinkle little star" and "Rock-a-bye Baby" every night to my son before bed.
23. I am VERY independent, and sometimes this drives my husband CRAZY!
24. I am a daddy's girl, and look up to my daddy in sooo many ways. I will be lost without my daddy someday!
25. I owned a bearded dragon lizard in college. I got her when she was only a few days old and I named her Molly. (I was hoping to someday be able to walk her on a leash) I sold her a few years ago, and the people that bought her found out she was a HE. Molly is now named Maui.
26. I traveled to Hawaii 5 years ago, and it was the best vacation ever!
27. My favorite color is pink!
28. I scrapbook and make all of my own cards (birthday cards, holiday cards, invitations etc)
29. I obsess way too much when planning a party. I started planning my son's 2nd birthday 2 months ago, and it isn't until the end of September.
30. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to shop! If I could shop all day long and had the money to do it, I would!
31. In college I worked part-time at Kay Jewelers, and became the sales manager at the age of 21. I worked for them for 6 years.
32. The hospital that I work at, I was born at 28 years ago. My son was also born here!
33. I have ALWAYS struggled with my weight and ALWAYS will! I know this is a lifetime battle, but after losing the baby weight + a little, I feel that I can and will win this battle.
34. The Southbeach diet is the only thing that I have found that helps me lose weight.
35. I had NEVER really run in my life until last summer. I decided to train for a 5K.
36. The day I did my first 5K, I had never ran outside before(trained on a treadmill), and my husband got called into work, so I did it pushing my son in a stroller. I finished in 36min and some seconds.
37. I feel that no matter what happens in life, it happens for a reason. Every experience is a learning experience.
38. My favorite baseball team is the St. Louis Cardinals! I LOVE THEM!
39. I LOVE water! My drink of choice would be WATER all of the time! I do drink a cup of coffee in the morning and a cup in the afternoon, and sometimes will splurge on a Sugar Free Red Bull.
40. I gave up caffinated soda and french fries in college, and haven't had either for 7 years.
41. The only fast food restaurant I will eat at is Taco Bell. All of the others have french fries, and since I don't eat them anymore, I don't want to be tempted. (I still would LOVE french fries!!!)
42. I do drink alcohol occasionally...I love beer, wine, mixed drinks! Not a huge fan of shots, but my sister's boyfriend always makes me do one when we got out.
43. I was a big partier in college, but since having my son, have slowed down. I do LOVE a party night every once in awhile!
44. In college me and my 2 best friends drank Hooch everytime we went out. We were known as the "Hoochie Mommas"
45. I hope to have more kids, but I am sooo in love with my little boy, that if I could never have anymore children, my heart would be complete!
46. My husband is ready for another child now...but I told him that this year is MY year (for running) and that we can start trying early next year.
47. I have a feeling I will have all boys!(and I am ok with this) I just feel like I am a all-boys type of Mommy!
48. Me and my 2 best friends all were pregnant at the same time. Our kids are only a few weeks apart in age.
49. My husband is my true, true, true best friend!
50. I love the running community and all of the running blogs out there. They keep me motivated and inspired! Thank you for following me, and I hope you learned something about me...probably WAY more than you ever wanted to know....

So, now that we have gotten through that, I wanted to recap my virtual race that Atena put on last week. We were suppose to run 7.64 miles and could do this anyway we wanted. (We were also suppose to wear PJ's, but I didn't do that)
I got my first 3 miles down last Thursday on the treadmill at the gym, after my body pump class. This was my first run since the half, and I felt Fan-freaking-tastic!!! I ran it in 29min 32sec!
Then Saturday morning I got myself up at 6am to beautiful sunshine, and headed out for the remaining 4.64 miles. I did a .25 warm up walk, and then started jogging. I know now that I totally started out the half way too fast, and was one of the reasons I struggled so much. On Saturday I started at about a 12min pace, and by the end of it was in the 9:30's. I just have to remember that this is the best thing for me, and the way my body works!
The run was sooo amazing! It was a really nice sunny, crisp morning, and I set off with my garmin watch and just decided to run. No set path. I ran, and ran, and ran, and felt sooo good! I did carry my Golite handheld, and sipped it when I needed it, but overall felt great! Such a relief that after such a "hard"half the weekend before, that I could still come back out here and do such a good run!
I finished the 4.64 in 46min and some change. (I actually ran a total of 5.25 miles that day, so not sure on the exact) Here is a pic of me after the run:

I actually wore my new Nike "Run" shirt that I got at the Go St. Louis Expo. It is super cute, and of course pink!!!

Then last night I got home late from work, so I wasn't going to be able to make my work out class, so I laced up and went for a run around 7:30ish last night. It was a great evening! I was also feeling great again. I had originally set out to do at least 3 miles, and since I was enjoying it sooo much, I ended up doing this:

I walked the first .25 miles again, but ran 5 miles. LOVED IT!

I would like to get in a few more workouts this week before we leave for Mexico on Saturday. I have tons to do this week...Hope I can get it all done!

Also, don't forget my 1st giveaway going on right now. It goes until Friday at noon. I swear, MyBella's jewelry is just sooo freakin cute! You have to check it out HERE.
And don't forget, you can get Free Shipping between now and Sunday May 1st by using the code 'RBFS2010' in the comment section to the seller when you place your order. (she will then refund your shipping via paypal)
I hope to have some more fun giveaways coming soon!

Have a great week, and again...thanks for checking in with me!
Steph

Current Giveaways:
My: MyBella Jewelry Giveaway 4/23
Lil Runner: CEP Compression Socks 4/23

Jog for Joubert Syndrome: Running Skirt 4/29
Running Diva Mom: Whooha Giveaway 4/26
Njoy Life: Lush Giveaway
Tall Mom on the Run: Gone for a Run Giveaway 4/30
nhershoes: Aurorae Mat Giveaway

My First Giveaway to Celebrate or UnCelebrate My First Half!

2010-04-16T16:14:00.000-07:00

Today is my very first giveaway! I thought that because of all of the outpouring support and advice from my followers on my first half marathon, that I should reward someone with a really fun giveaway!
I have ran across a really neat jewelry maker shop called MyBella.
MyBella was created by a stay-at-home-superhero, Liz, that has a passion for jewelry. She came across this passion accidently. Liz tells her story:
"A couple of summers ago, my in-laws wanted to take my two small kids (then ages 2 & 3) with her on vacation for a whole week. I spent an entire teen and adult life being a nanny, and I couldn't wait untl the days I'd spend with my own kids. The idea of them being gone from me for a week was not thrilling at first. As the day grew closer, my anxiety skyrocketed, until I went to drop them off. She thanked me for letting them go along, and handed me a $7 'Jewelry Makers Starter Kit' to keep my hands busy while they were away; in her mind, it would keep me from cutting their trip short. Honestly, that's all it took! Everthing just kind of spiraled out of control from that moment!! I'd started with doing a few pieces from friends, and within a couple of months I had opened my Etsy shop. A year after my shop opened, I hit the "100 Sales" mark, and three months later, my shop hit 250+ sales. I am now only a few sales away from 300. I am beyond blessed!!"

Liz's MyBella shop offers a wonderful array of handstamped pieces that represent so many different things. For example, she has a "Run Like A Girl" necklace that can be customized with the name of your half marathon or marathon, or with "SwimBikeRun" for all of the triathletes out there.

She also has a necklace called "Tours of Service" which can be customized with tour information and military branch.

And for all of the stay at home mom's out there, she even has a necklace for the "Stay At Home Super hero". How sweet is that?

Some other items Liz offers in her store is handstamped inital wine charms.

She also has an amazing bridal line that any bride would be proud to wear.

An item I HAVE to mention in Liz's MyBella collection is the adorable "Mommy N Me" necklace "For the Inner Princess In Us All" How cute would this be to get for Mommy and Daughter to wear? (If only I had a daughter....)

When asked which item is Liz's favorite, she states:

"With my 'Carried To Heaven On Angels Wings' necklace, I've had many back stories to accompany the orders. Being told that the piece is for a friend who just lost her husband a week ago, or a family who just lost a small child absolutely floors me. To put myself in the position of that person's pain is almost overwhelming. When I realize that my work, my craft, my creative design was chosen to help be a part of the healing...that is beyond an honor."

Such an awesome line of products, and she has sooo many more special pieces that I wish I could list them all. The cool thing is, Liz has so generously offered up a prize to one lucky follower. Between now and noon on Friday April 23rd, you can enter in to win a $20 MyBella Gift Certificate toward a piece of jewelry of your choice. How wonderful is that!!!

Also, EVERYONE has the chance to purchase one of Liz's custom pieces and recieve FREE SHIPPING between now and Sunday May 1st. All you have to do is go to MyBella HERE and enter the code: 'RBFS2010' INTO THE COMMENT SECTION TO THE SELLER WHEN YOU PLACE YOUR ORDER. (she will then refund your shipping via paypal)
What a great Mother's Day gift to someone special in your life!?!?

So, to enter the giveaway, you have a few different options, listed below. Please respond back with individual comments for each. A person will be chosen by random drawing in the afternoon of Friday April 23rd.

To enter:

1. Please become a follower of this blog, or let me know you already are.

2. Please visit Liz at her MyBella's Shop HERE and tell me which item you would chose, if you won.

3. Please visit MyBella on Facebook HERE and become a fan and let me know that you have done so.

4. Please link this giveaway on your blog, Facebook page or twitter account and let me know that you have done so. (You will receive an entry for each link)

So, what are you waiting for...Enter in to win a wonderfully customizable gift that you can design for yourself or for someone wonderful in your life. And don't forget, you can get Free Shipping between now and Sunday May 1st by using the code 'RBFS2010' in the comment section to the seller when you place your order. (she will then refund your shipping via paypal)

Good luck, and again I want to extend a HUGE thank you to all of my followers out there. The running community is AWESOME and I would not have been able to go out there and kill my 3 miles last night, without all of your encouraging words!

Run with ya soon,

Stephanie

Go St. Louis Half Marathon Recap

2010-04-15T08:40:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been 4 days since my first half marathon...and as you can see, I haven't blogged about it yet...It was a little bit of a disappointment. Since Sunday, I have had a chance to think about everything, re-evaluate what I should and shouldn't have done, and I am all geared up to do it AGAIN!!!
Let me give you a recap of the week leading up to the race, and then the day of the race....
I did the normal "taper" that everyone talks about, where I only worked out twice during the week, so that I could relax my muscles and legs. During that week, I for whatever reason, lost 6lbs. Let me just tell you, that I am ALWAYS trying to lose weight, and during the whole 8 weeks of training, I didn't lose even ONE pound...so, of course this 6lb weight lose in 5 days, was AWESOME!! (but I didn't even think of how it could potentially affect my running...) On Saturday evening, I went out to dinner with my family and had a pasta dinner along with bread. (carb loading...like everyone says) I also drank plenty of water leading up to the race, and felt really good all week.

Race morning I woke up around 4am and got ready...I had my race outfit picked out and everything charged and ready to go (including my BRAND NEW Garmin watch!!!) I ate my normal breakfast (before a long run) of a fiber one bar, a banana, water and a little bit of coffee. I did this approx. 1/2 hr before we were leaving, so everything could digest, and hopefully I would go to the bathroom (which I did before we left) I was meeting my next door neighbor Jen outside, and then we were riding with a doctor that she runs with, Dr. Mohan. He was going to be driving us down, and then my husband, son and parents would be meeting me there later so I could ride home with them. I knew I could only bring the necessities because I would have no where to leave anything once we got to downtown St. Louis. Here is a pic of me before I left the house:

I walked outside at around 5:40am (we were leaving at 5:45am) My neighbor Jen was at the end of her driveway waiting...she saw me and told me I better grab a "throw away" shirt, so I wouldn't be cold while waiting for the race to start. The temps were in the high 40's/low 50's by then, but there was a slight breeze and chill in the air. I ran back inside and grabbed a long sleeved shirt to wear. I then ran back out and waited with Jen for Dr. Mohan. (My 3 other running friends all live in St. Louis, and they were taking the MetroLink down to the race...I had spoken with them earlier and everyone was SUPER excited!)
Right at 5:45am, Dr. Mohan can pulling up in a brand new Jaguar, for us to ride to the race in...Super Cool! I told him we were riding in style!
We had a little bit of trouble getting down there because of exits being closed etc, but at around 6:20am we arrived and I went off to find my friends. My friend Becki had picked up some balloons, and I spotted them right away (good tip for anyone who is meeting people...It was super easy to find them!) They were right at the back of the 9:55 pacer. We stretched some and talked and just all were super excited. At 7am, the race started...Becki had handed all of us a balloon, and we released them as we crossed the start line (I'm hoping for a cool pic of this from the photogs)
The first 4 miles were really good...I felt good, and the weather was not too hot yet. We were keeping a steady pace, and actually when I looked at my watch a few times, we were actually going faster than I would have wanted (sometimes it said 9:30ish, and sometimes 9:20ish...way to fast for me to start out a race...I am the type of runner who starts out slow and can really pick it up at the finish)
Right after mile 4, I started to feel a little dizzy and not like myself. My legs felt heavy, and my feet started to hurt (which had never happened to me during a run) We had just done a Gu and I was carrying my Golite handheld, so I was sipping water. Around mile 5, the heat really started to pound down on us, and I was.not.feeling.good.at.all!!! I didn't want to mention it to the other girls, because I didn't want to discourage them, so I just pushed on. Me and Becki had been out ahead of Kris and Sarah most of the time, but around mile 5.5 I dropped back to run with Kris and Sarah. Sarah mentioned she thought she might have to go to the bathroom....
At mile 6, I spotted my husband and parents and my little running supporter Logan, along with some of my parents friends (their daughter was also running the half...this was her first race, EVER) This did cheer me up, and I was able to show a smile and a wave:

Right after this, I saw some porta potties, and even though I didn't need to pee, I told Sarah that if she wanted to stop, I would stop with her. She took up my offer and we stopped (note: I never normally want to or have to stop during a race...first time EVER!) But, I was just not feeling good and I thought maybe stopping for a minute would help. Sarah ran to one of the potties, while I stood outside...then out of nowhere, I couldn't control it and pee started to run out of me...I freaked because I couldn't control it, and I ran into one of the open porta potties and went to the bathroom. (At this time I didn't know what was going on...these were things that never happened to me...especially only 6 miles into a run. I felt like I couldn't control my body!)
After I was done, I ran out to find Sarah, and I didn't see here anywhere...I waited around for a few more minutes and started up again...not sure if she was still in the bathroom or had gone ahead and started back up again. At around mile 7 I spotted my friend Sarah's husband, son and parents and in-laws, so I ran up to them to see if they had seen Sarah, which they hadn't...so, I decided to wait with them for a little bit to see if she came by. (And again, I felt like I was going to pass out...I started to get tunnel vision, and everything around me was a blur) I do remember Sarah's MIL ask me if I wanted a banana and I took it and ate half. I finally decided to push on without Sarah.
I took off again, and did a run/walk thing for another couple of miles...My legs just didn't want to move, and I was almost running slower that I was walking...It was such a horrible feeling, and I just couldn't understand it. I tried to listen to my music and just concentrate..I tried to focus on my breathing and tried to force my legs to run harder, but NOTHING was working. At one point, I JUST WANTED TO QUIT! I told myself that the one thing I have ALWAYS told my 18mos old son, is to "Never Give Up!" I knew I had to push through this and prove to him and myself I could finish this!
Around mile 9 the route looped back around, so I could see everyone on the other side of the road running back. I told myself I would run this, focus on looking for my friends. At mile 10, out of nowhere, someone yelled my name and came up from behind me and hugged me...IT WAS SARAH! I guess I had ran past her while she was walking...It was soooo great to have someone with me to finish this "excruciating race"! She was also feeling it...I haven't mentioned yet, that the heat continued to rise, and the course was HILLY, HILLY, HILLY! This of course didn't help anything!
We continued to do a run/walk for the next 2 miles. We pretty much walked the hills, ran the downhills or the flats. We did stop at every drink station, and I did fuel up on a little gatorade, which I think might have helped.
At mile 12, I finally started feeling better. There was one big hill that we decided to walk, and then I told Sarah, lets run the remaining bit, and cross the finish line running!!! She was really starting to hurt too, but she agreed. We finished the hill, and then took off at a run. My legs really felt weird, and I was having shooting pains in the front of my calves, but I pushed on.
We crossed the finish line TOGETHER and gave each other a huge hug! We had done it...through the heat, hills, pain, and just a HORRIBLE run day, I had done it! Mine and Sarah's 1st half marathon, and we had completed it together!
Afterwards I was still really, really dizzy and at points thought I was going to pass out, plus I had HORRIBLE leg cramps, where I couldn't hardly stand, and it brought tears to my eyes. This happened 3 different times after the race....again,something I had never, ever experienced before!
It was such a relief to see my parents and my husband and son...We did get our race pictures taken together, with our medals. We also took some with our own cameras:

I really didn't start to feel better until we reached the car. We went to lunch with Becki and her husband, and it was nice to get something to eat and not feel sooo dizzy!
That afternoon I was not feeling great about the race, but my husband kept telling me how proud he was of me...It did make me feel better! I took a long shower and nap that afternoon, and by that evening, felt a little bit better about everything. Here is a pic of my and my son that I took once we got home:

So, for final results: (not very proud of them, but I will still share)
Final Time:
2:31:47
Distance HALF MAR
Clock Time: 2:39:15
Chip Time: 2:31:47
Overall Place: 7403/10705
Gender Place: 4181/6821
Division Place: 977/1460
6 Mile Time: 1:00:30

So, this was the long post of my first "kind of successful, kind of not successful" half marathon. I am now evaluating and re-evaluating what I should or shouldn't have done, and what caused me to feel the way I did throughout the race. Has anyone else ever felt this way, and what do you think the cause was? Do you think the weight loss could have contributed to my body breaking down like it did? Why did I cramp so bad after it was over? These are all questions I need to figure out before I start my marathon training in a few months. I will tell you this:
Even though I had a bad run, I am ready to get back out there...I know I can do it, and I will!!! Also, I plan on running another half marathon before my marathon in October. I need to prove to myself that I can do this...because I know I can!!!
In speaking with a lot of other runners who ran this race, everyone said it was extremely hard and hilly!
Contests to check out:
Amanda: RuntoTheFinish: 3 Changes Challenge- Ends May 15th
Jamie: Running Diva Mom: Inspire Towel Giveaway- Ends April 18th
Jamie: Running Diva Mom: Run Like a Mother Book Giveaway- Ends April 15th
Erica: I Run Because....I Can: Gu and RoadID Giveaway- Ends April 16th
Lil Runner: CEP Compression Socks Giveaway- Ends April 23rd
Laura: My Reason to Run: Runningskirt Giveaway- Ends April 29th
Tonia: Racing with Babes- Food and Music Giveaway- Ends April 20th

Lookie...Lookie...What I Got!!!

2010-04-09T07:35:00.000-07:00

Well, today is me and my husband's 5 year anniversary! On this day 5 years ago, I was getting ready to walk down the aisle and marry the man of my dreams! It was such a wonderful day...similar to the weather today...Sunny, nice breeze with a calmness! I LOVED my wedding and truly wish we could do it all over again. It is such a wonderful memory that I will cherish forever!
Well, last night when I got home from work, I had orginially thought I would go to the gym for Body Pump and then get in a quick 3 mile run afterwards. When I walked in the house, there was a huge gift bag sitting on the kitchen table...and my husband looked at me and said, "Open It"!
Well, it wasn't our anniversary yet, and I wasn't expecting to do gifts right then, but he just seemed sooo super excited! Of course, my son was whining for me to pick him up, and so of course, I had to see him for a couple of minutes...but my husband kept saying..."Open it, open it...I am super excited for you to open it!" This was probably the most excited I had seen my husband about a gift he was giving me...so of course, I was curious...I.had.no.idea what it was???
So, after I was able to set my son down for more than 2 seconds I proceeded to open the gift bag, and down at the bottom of the bag was this......

Look how freakin AWESOME this is!!! It was my Garmin watch!!! The watch that I have talked about for months and months...that I was going to use money from a contest I am in at work to buy (which wasn't going to be until sometime in May) I was soooo shocked and soooo happy! Plus, I thought it was sooo cool that my husband was sooo excited to give me a gift that had to do with my new passion....running! It made me realize, he really does understand!!!
He told me he wanted to give it to me early, so I could play around with it and have it all ready to use by my first half marathon this Sunday. How cool...My first half marathon will be ran with my new Garmin watch!

So, needless to say I decided to skip the gym and just do my 3 mile run outside (I was hoping while wearing my new watch)...but, I had to charge it for a full 3 hrs before using it for the first time, so I wasn't able to do that...but I could at least try it on and oooo and aaaa about it!
My husband explained how he didn't know which one to get me etc, but he really liked this one and thought it would be perfect for what I needed it for....and of course, IT IS PERFECT! I can't wait to use this baby for the first time this Sunday!

So, on to my run....after I put my son to bed and kissed my husband a few more times, I decided to head out for my quick run. I hadn't ran all week, so I needed to get it in before the race on Sunday...plus I wanted to try out my new Champion running skirt that I got at, of all places Target, since I might wear it on race day. (I do really, really, really want a running skirt from the cutie pie twins at runningskirt.com) but this running skirt was at Target for only $16.99 and I have never run in a running skirt, so before I fork over to much $$$ I wanted to try one out to see if I liked it. Here is a pic of the skirt:

So, I headed out, wearing my new RoadId(of course) and my old Polar watch(tear, tear...for having to leave my new Garmin watch at home), but at least my Polar watch could calculate my final time. It was a nice cool evening, and there were plenty of people still out mowing and tending to their yards etc. The first 1.5 miles was a little rough while I warmed up, but after that I felt OK. I should have drank some water before I started, because my mouth was super dry and I kept getting gunk in my throat, plus I hadn't eaten since lunch, and it was 7:30ish or so.
As I was running, I was thinking about my upcoming half...I started to freak out a little...could I really do this??? I mean, here I am only running 3 miles, and they seemed kind of hard tonight...but 13!?!? How am I going to get through it...I started to get all nervous! I told myself to settle down...that I was just going to be going out to run a nice long "training" run, or as Kerrie at mom vs marathon stated, out to do my "victory" lap! This did settle me down some, but I do know that on race day, I am going to be N.E.R.V.O.U.S!!!
I finished the 3 miles in 26.50 per my old watch...wonder what I can do with my newbie!!! :)
As for the review on the running skirt...It was FABULOUS! I think it is a top contender in my outfit for Sunday....

Anyways, tonight my parents are watching Logan so we can go out to dinner and then out for drinks and some fun with friends...tomorrow is a hang out day for me, and then Sunday is the B-I-G DAY!!! Race Day! Wish me luck...full race report next week...plus, I will be able to have the breakdown by miles etc (per my lovely new watch) Yea!!!
Enjoy your weekend and all of your runs,
Stephanie

8 Hilly Miles....Now Time to Reflect

2010-04-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

First off, I have attached some pics from my 3 mile run earlier last week. (sorry for the pic quality), but here I am super sweaty!!! Also, I received my Road ID from the wonderful people at Road ID (and Outside PR) last week. It is soooo super cute and super PINK!!! I wore it for my 3 mile run and it was awesome...didn't even know it was there. This little baby will help someone identify me, should something happen to me out on the road. If you run outside, then you NEED one of these...you just never know what could happen. You can engrave your name, contact information and any health issues right onto it...that way, you can be identified easily (especially since most of us don't carry an ID when we are running)...plus, it is such a cute running accessory!
If you would like to get one of your own, you can go to www.roadid.com and order one. Edward from Road Id has provided a coupon for 20 of my readers to receive a $1 off of their order if you order before April 20th. The coupon code is: ThanksStephanie629114

Now...on to this weekend's long run....

This weekend's run was a lot of fun! We all met up at Frontenac Plaza in Clayton, MO at 6:30am. Sarah had printed out a route where we ran all over the Clayton area. No trail, no park, no clear route...It was going to be an adventure, but it was going to be fun!

This was going to be our last long run, and our last run together before the half the following weekend. We originally were going to do 10 miles, but the route Sarah had was either an 8 mile or a 9 mile route.

We started out running up Clayton Rd. It was fun...This part of St. Louis is VERY ritzy...very rich neighborhoods with really neat, big, expensive homes, and all of the stores look alike...there was even a fancy looking hardware store we ran by...such a neat area! It was a great morning...the rain from the night had passed by and there was only a slight chill in the air.

Off of Clayton Rd, we turned onto Spoede and continued up towards Chaminade. The one thing we noticed early on, was ALL.OF.THE.HILLS! They were everywhere!!! As we approached one, we all kept running and did really good conquering them. This was one of the only runs I had done with this many hills!

We then ended up running onto Lindbergh, which then brought us to MICDS (a private high school, that looked more like a small college campus) We came up on their football stadium and high school track. We weren't sure how to cut through, and because we were right at 3 miles, decided to stop and take off a layer of clothes, hydrate and down a Gu. Afterwards, we took off again and finally figured out how to snake our way off of the track and through the h.s. campus back to the main road.

We then took a right onto Warson, and again...TONS AND TONS OF HILLS! We knew there would be a few, but this was far more than I had EVER ran! It was definitely a good run to prepare us for the half the following weekend, since we have heard it is a little hilly! We then came to Ladue and then took a right into the St. Louis Country Club Golf Course. It was beautiful, and again hilly! We ran past the clubhouse and *down* a hill. At the bottom we stopped for another drink of water...we were right at 6 miles. At that point we decided we would only do 8 miles (it is our taper week, plus these hills were challenging enough...) our butts would be feeling it the next morning. So, we then took a right back onto Clayton and ran UP again, a few more hills until up over one of the hills, I saw Lindbergh and our cars!! Yea!

We finished the 8 miles in right at 1hr 20min. It was such a feeling of accomplishment as we all gave each other high fives for the last time before the big race.

During the run, and on the drive home, I thought about how far I have truly come...not even one year ago, could I run even 1 mile....and now, I am pushing myself to run 8 HILLY miles, and enjoying every second of it. Of course it is hard, and I have struggled at times, but knowing that I can push myself to do this, is such an awesome feeling! It is also awesome to know that I have such great friends to be there with me each step of the way! These girls know all of the sweat, and times of struggle that I have been through (and each of them having their own struggles along the way) to get us to this last training run. Next weekend is what these last 8 weeks have been all about...Race Day!

I can't wait to start and end this race with all of my training buddies, plus approx. 12,500 other runners who are all there for the same thing...to win this race, because we are all winners! This race isn't against anyone but ourselves! Next Sunday at 7am, the gun will go off, and us "runners" will begin our race...and at the end of the race, there will be a medal, but beyond all of that, it will be a HUGE sense of pride...a sense of pride knowing that our bodies and our minds could push us through this and truly, you can do ANYTHING you set your mind to! Next Sunday there will be 4 proud Mommy's cross that finish line, knowing that we DID IT!

5 DAYS UNTIL THE GO ST. LOUIS HALF!

GO HARD OR GO HOME!!!

Happy Easter...and Happy Running!

2010-04-02T12:15:00.000-07:00

Well, Friday is finally here, and tomorrow is my last long run before my very first half marathon next Sunday. Soooo exciting!
I decided to do a recap of March to see where I have been, and what I would like to accomplish for April....
Ran= 10x
Total Mileage= 57 miles
Shortest Run= 2 miles
Longest Run=11 miles

Body Combat=5x
Body Pump= 4x
Zumba= 1x
30 Day Shred=1x
Other=2x

Total Days in March= 31
Total Work Out Days in March= 23

I feel really good about this number. I have really set my mind to think that working out/running is just part of my life and my schedule. At the beginning of the week, I talk with my husband and plan out my workout days/runs. Only a couple of times did I have to switch, but I don't think I missed any days this month, which I am proud of.
My goals for April are to continue my working out schedule:
Run 2-3 days/week
Cross Train 2-3 days/week
Weights 1-2 days/week

I would like to really work the 30 day shred program into my workout, and I think I might start that next week. I did it once, really liked it, and because I have to do it in our unfinished basement (my husband doesn't want me jumping up and down in the living room), the dvd player we have downstairs, we can't find the remote, so I need to go buy a new one....and just haven't....so, that's my excuse for the lack of the 30 day shred in my program, but I plan to get the remote and plan on really committing to this.
I also want to really focus on my eating. For some reason this week, I have gotten a little off track, and I know with Easter this weekend, it won't get much better until Monday. I don't want to do anything too drastic next week, with the half being on Sunday, but I would like to cut out sugar and possibly carbs the two weeks before our vacation. I plan on ordering my swimming suits tonight from Victoria Secret, and they have to look good!!!

So, that's my plan....

As for my workouts this week:
Sunday: Weights and Abs
Monday: 1 Hour Body Combat/1 Hour Zumba
Tuesday: 3 Mile Run (27:03 minutes)
Wednesday: Planned to do Body Combat...but I was sooooo tired, so ended up going to bed at 8:15pm instead
Thursday: Felt MUCH better....1 Hour Body Pump
Friday: Off
Saturday: 10 Mile Run

I will post a few pics from my run on Tuesday in my next post...haven't downloaded them on the computer yet....also have a fun product review to do!

Hope everyone has a great weekend and even greater Easter! Enjoy your time with your family and the yummy food!
Run with ya soon,
Stephanie

Current Giveaways:
Tricia: Kettleworx (ends tonight)
Erica: Ryders Sunglasses (ends tonight)
Momma Twitch: 1/2 Marathon Giveaway (ends 4/3)
Running For Good: Bondiband Giveaway (ends 4/4)
Happy Runner: Run Like a Mother Book Giveaway (ends 4/5)
Miss Zippy: Runervals DVD (ends 4/7)
TMB: Moving Comfort Bra Giveaway (ends 4/8)
She Runs Like a Girl: Swag Giveaway (ends 4/10)
Katye: Running Skirts Top Giveaway (ends 4/10)
Random Chick: Book and Sunglassess Giveaway (ends 4/12)
Erica: Road ID and Gu Giveaway (ends 4/16)

S.I.K.E..................

2010-03-29T12:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I want to thank everyone for their support over the weekend on my desperate last post. Yes, I did think I was going to have to run 11 miles by myself
BUT GUESS WHAT.....
the photographer canceled (boo on the picture people) but yeah on getting to run my 11 miler with my girls!!! So, sorry for my boo hoo of a last blog...but thanks for the support anyways!~

Now on to how the run went....we met at Creve Coeur park at 6:30am, and there was all 4 of us together. This is the first time we have had more than 3 girls to run, so I was super excited! I actually felt like we had an official "running group!"
Beck wasn't feeling so hot when she got there, and actually ended up making herself throw up before we started...(not a good sign when we still have 11 miles to run) But, we started up...I was feeling great! Just glad to be there running with everyone, and the weather was nice too. A little chilly, but not bad. We hadn't ran this course in the 1/2 training (ran it a few times when I trained for my 10 miler last year) It is a beautiful course with a huge lake that the trail run around. There were quite a few people out when we started, and as our miles added up, so did the people. At around 3 miles, Beck decided she needed to stop (to throw up 3 more times, we found out later) and so me, Kris and Sar ran on. At mile 4 we stopped for a water break and Gu and ended up finding Beck (this course has a lot of different ways you can go and back track etc) So, she decided to start up with us again. We took off and started onto a trail, which was a nice change. Again, I was feeling really good (did have a few stomach issues, but I had that before we started) We talked about the upcoming 1/2 and what we were going to wear etc. Beck again had to leave us due to not feeling well. We continued on, and picked her up again around mile 7.5 or so. At mile 8 we stopped again for a water and Gu. By this time we were all the way around the lake and close to where we had parked. We decided we would run past our cars 1.5 miles and then turn around and head back. So, we started back up, again, I was feeling Fabtabulous!!!! I don't think I had had such a good run...EVER!?!? (knock on wood) As we turned around at mile 9.5, everyone was getting a little tired, and we started to run into the wind, which wasn't good, but I was still feeling good and had a really good pace going. With only a little more to do, Sar (who had been having some burn out issues with running, and her longest run to date also) picked up speed next to me, and her and me sprinted the remaining .25 miles. It felt great to finish, and I totally felt like I could have gone more! Kris and Beck were right behind us. Beck had finished 9 miles herself, while puking 3-4 times (she ended up sick the rest of the day with the flu...go her for sticking it out!!!) I told her afterwards that a true runner was someone who could puke and keep going...and she did!!!
Afterwards we all gave high fives and walked back to the cars to stretch. It was such a great feeling of accomplishment, and made me feel like I was really ready for the Go St. Louis 1/2...in ONLY 13 DAYS!!! :)
We are going to taper a little next week and do only 10 miles, but I think we are going to just pick a place around St. Louis and run...no real course to follow. Thought this might be fun for our last run before the 1/2.
And guess what....while I was typing this post, I received an email from Go St. Louis, and I received my official bib number: 12515
So super cool!!!

The rest of the weekend was spent with family. On Sunday I did hit the gym with my hubby and did some weights and abs! Tonight I am heading to the gym with my neighbor for Body Combat, and then we are going to stay to try out Zumba. Never done it before, but heard it is fun! Can't wait to burn some major calories!!!

Have a great week, and I have some really cool things in the works for my 1/2 marathon outfit...still working on a few details, but when everything is finalized, I will post a pic! I can't wait!
Here is to a week of happy running,
Steph

I Need Some Advice/Motivation

2010-03-26T11:35:00.000-07:00

Hi Bloggie World:
I know I have stated a few different times that I have to run a 11 miler this weekend...my longest run to date. I was planning on meeting 3 other girls tomorrow morning out in St. Louis for the run...the problem is, we had my son's 18mos photos scheduled for Sunday (outside) and it is suppose to rain, so we are looking to reschedule them for tomorrow morning at 10:30am. This will work, except I will miss my run with the girls. Me and my husband are planning on being in the pictures, and there is no way to get in a 11 mile run and get home get ready and make it to the pics by 10:30am.
SO...........................................................
I would have to run my 11 miler, my longest run ever, my PR for mileage, my only two miles point two short of a 1/2 marathon, A.L.L B.Y M.Y.S.E.L.F!!!!!!!! Can we say freak out!
I have never ran over 5 miles by myself...how am I going to do it, plus, it will most likely be in the rain, because I will do it Sunday morning. I need some help from my fellow running bloggers...Can I do this???
I mean, in my mind I can, but then I kind a, sort a, have a freak out moment and think...Can I really do this? This would place me in a place I have never been...I have ALWAYS ran my long runs with someone. Plus, I have no Garmin...What is a girl to do??? (I mean, I know I can use Map My Run, but I have become so accustomed to relying on my friends Garmins)

Anyways, I just needed to get this out while I am sitting here freaking out...like I said, I know I can do this, but in some ways, I feel like if I can accomplish this, I can accomplish anything, and that kind of scares me! (not really sure why...)
Has anyone else felt this way before? Any advice/motivation would be great!

Have a great day, and I will keep you posted on what happens....dang...11 miles (all by myself)

Fab Friday Review: GoLite HydroClutch

2010-03-26T07:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! Hope everyone has some good plans for the weekend!

I wanted to let everyone know about an AWESOME product that I have been recently introduced to...The GoLite HydroClutch water bottle. It is da bomb!! I just started running some longer runs, where water was needed. I was carrying a regular water bottle...looked like this:

Not only was this not convenient to carry, but it is not good for the environment. So, here I introduce the HydroClutch. This little baby is A-W-E-S-O-M-E! I used it for the first time two weeks ago, and it was perfect. It has a little zipper pocket that is perfect for storing my key and some Gu. How awesome is that! (plus, I think my running buddies were a little jealous too!) I have ran a 9 miler and a 10 miler with it, and it has been perfect as far as size and weight. I hardly notice it is there, except when I need that little sip of water, and it is right there in the palm of my hand. How Cool!

To get one of your own, go to the Golite Website. While you are there, check out all of there other products...running apparel, visors and much more! Thank you Golite for making my runs that much easier!

As far as runs for this weekend, I have an 11 miler scheduled for tomorrow morning...Wish me luck!

I wanted to post a question out there for all of you runners...What is your favorite running product website? This would be for gear, apparel, or just plain fun running things.

Have a great weekend, and run with ya soon,

Steph

Check Out These Current Giveaways:

Erica: Ryder Sunglasses Giveaway (ends 4/2)

Jamie: Girls on the Run Giveaway Package (ends 4/1)

Tonia: Run Like a Mother Book Giveaway (ends 3/26)

Dorothy: Saucony's Shoe Giveaway (ends 4/1)

Kayte: Raffle for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (ends 4/1)

3 Miles, 18 Days, 1 Month....

2010-03-24T09:02:00.000-07:00

Today is kind of a big day...why you ask??? Well, it is the day after I ran my fastest 3 miles to date, it is the day that marks exactly 18 days until my first 1/2 marathon, and it is the day that marks 1 month until we leave for Mexico! Dang...IT-IS-A-BIG-DAY!

Last night I met up with my awesome, fully dedicated, ever inspiring running neighbor, Jen, to run my short run (which she liked to call my TEMPO run...I have never ran a TEMPO run before, so I was EXCITED!) Jen has been running for 3 years or so, and has ran quite a few 1/2's and 2-3 marathons. She gets up most mornings during the week to run with some elite runners and then sometimes runs in the evenings, or we head to the gym together.

This particular night I was planning on running, and she said she would like to run with me...I was a little nervous, because the girls I run with are all on my level...we normally run approx. 10min miles during our training runs. Jen's pace is 9miles, and she told me she would start me at her pace and then we would decide if we needed to slow down depending on how I felt.

So, at 7:30ish last night we set out...we were going to take my normal 3 mile loop through our neighborhood into the neighborhood next door, and back. She told me that she would talk to me the whole time, so not worry if I got tired and couldn't. We started out, and she has such a nice stride and makes it seem so effortless. We definitely started out faster than I normally do, but I felt good! (I had done a Gu right before, because I wanted to make sure I had the energy to put my full effort into this run...I wanted to prove to Jen, plus myself that I had come a long way!)

At mile 1, we had kept close to a 9 mile pace, and we were talking back and forth, and I felt really good. Jen said she was very impressed and we kept on. At the half way point, we were at 13min something seconds (she has a Garmin, so that was nice) We picked up the pace a little and kept going. I had to stop once to tie my shoe (I had never had my shoe come untied, but of course when I am trying to get a REALLY good time, my shoe doesn't cooperate!) This only took a few seconds, and we were off again. As we headed into our last mile, we really picked up the pace, but I felt AWESOME! I was a little winded, but was still carrying on a conversation and my body felt great! We came around the corner onto our street, and she stopped us at 3 miles...She asked me what the fastest I had ever ran this route was. I told her approx. 28min 30 seconds..she told me we blew that out of the water...

Final Stats:

Mile 1: 9:08
Mile 2: 9:03

Mile 3: 7:48 (told you we picked up the pace)

Final Time: 26.03

AWESOME...I was on cloud 9! I was sooo proud of myself and sooo thankful to Jen for pushing me and helping me prove to myself that I can run faster! I hope to continue to do some runs with her. I think she will really help me improve my time.

As for the 18 days...the Go St. Louis 1/2 is in 18 days...Woo Hoo! This weekend I will be running my longest run ever...11 miles! I can't wait!

And....drum roll please....1 month until Mexico! Me and my husband are leaving for Mexico in April to celebrate our 5 Year Anniversary! So fun...but also holly one month to lose these extra pounds...so, what did I do this morning??? I committed to REALLY REALLY REALLY trying to stick to my Weight Watchers Online program. I have been doing fairly well, but have fallen off occasionally. Plus, I need to kick it in full gear with the 30 Day Shred...cause like I mentioned, I only have 30 Days until VACA!

On a side note, I received my "Name That Garmin" present from Amanda at 5 Miles 2 Empty. I helped name her garmin...I was the last name...NIMRAG!

Anyways, I received some running laundry detergent, and a super cute Nike running hat! I don't have a running hat, so I was SUPER excited! As you can see from the pics above, I wore it on my 10 miler this past Saturday. Thanks Amanda!

Have a great rest of the week,

Stephanie

100 Miles

2010-03-21T17:54:00.000-07:00

Yea!!! Big accomplishment this week...I hit 100 miles (to the dot) after Saturday's 10 mile run! How exciting...I have ran 100 miles this year! Who would have thought it???
Saturday's run was originally scheduled for 7am, but due to a conflict in B's schedule, we met at 6:30am. It was a nice morning, approx. 40 degrees out with a little bit of a crisp breeze. K also met us for the run! We decided to make 2 laps around the park we were running at, which would get us right at the 10 miles. The first few miles were a little rough...on all of us! There were a TON of runners out, so that made it fun, and I knew that a lot of these people were probably training for the same 1/2 that we would be running in only a few weeks!
At 3 miles we stopped for a water break and all did a Gu...we needed something to push us forward those remaining 7 miles. This was the same trail we ran last weekend, and is pretty hilly! As we finished the first loop, K started to get a cramp and not feeling very well. We decided we would stop at 7 miles for another water break and Gu. At approx. 5 miles, I was finally feeling good and really got in my groove. We stopped at 7 miles, and did another Gu, and decided we would run another 1.5 miles, and then turn around and run back the remaining 1.5 miles. This would put us closer to the cars, and both B and K needed to be somewhere by 9am. As we started up after our 2nd quick stop, K decided she had to stop and for me and B to keep going. We both felt really bad, but knew that K needed to take a break. Me and B kept going, and at one point B looked at her Garmin and it said we were running under a 9 minute mile...Yea for us!!!
We turned at the 1.5 mile marker, and headed back to finish our last 1.5 miles. I was starting to get tired (I had done the 30 Day Shred the night before...yes, I listened to everyone and just went out and bought it at Target...and my bank is going after that scam company!!!) so, I was a little sore from that, plus, with us running faster, I was really starting to feel it and was ready for it to be over!
We looked and looked for K and didn't see her, so we assumed she went back to the car. We finished our 10 miles and gave a HUGE high five!!! We had done it! Our time was right under 1hr 40min. As we were stretching, we saw K behind us...she had stopped off at the Visitor's Center (threw up) and then continued her run. She only did 7.5, but at least she didn't give up, plus she was feeling better!
It was a great run and next Saturday we are scheduled for 11. This will be my PR for mileage....I have never ran over 11 miles...I can't wait!!! The 1/2 is in 3 weeks...YaaHoo!!! I ordered my 13.1 PINK visor the other day...can't wait to get it!!!

Hope everyone had a great weekend of runs! Today I took the day off and just chilled with my boys!
I do want to give a HUGE shout out to Erica at I Run Because...I Can for sending me my GU prize from her contest and an AWESOME Golite water bottle. I have used it the last few runs, and absolutely LOVE it! Thank you Erica...you are a lifesaver!!!

Happy Running,
Stephanie

Website Scam...Please don't use...

2010-03-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

Good Friday morning! I am a little disappointed and ticked off today! I mentioned a few weeks ago that I ordered the 30 Day Shred online, and was so excited to receive it and start using it. Well....I still don't have it!
I ordered it from a company called SaleEater.com on 3/4/10. The follow up email I received said they would process and ship my order is 1-2 business days. Well, 13 days later, I still don't have it. I have tried emailing the company, and also left a message for them. Today I tried calling again, and their 866 number is stating that the mailbox is full??? WTF
I googled more about the company and have read about alot of complaints like mine, where people NEVER receive their package. This is soooo disheartening! They did have good prices, but it is starting to look like this company is a scam!

I just wanted to put it out there to anyone that might run across this company...SaleEater.com
Don't use them. I have a feeling, I am out my $9.73, plus I don't have my 30 Day Shred! :(

Anyhoo...I did get to the gym last night and did a 60 minute Body Pump class, and then jumped on the treadmill for a 3 mile run. Tomorrow we are scheduled to run 10 miles. We are meeting at 6:30am, and they are calling for rain and snow...crossing my fingers it holds off!

Have a great week, and watch out for shady companies...So sad!!!:(
Stephanie

St. Patrick's Day 5 Mile Run

2010-03-18T06:59:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was filled with RUNNING! Saturday morning I had the St. Patrick's Day 5 Mile Race. It started at 9am, so I got downtown around 8:15am. My husband and son were going to meet me down there. I was suppose to meet up with my friend S (her very first race) and her husband and one of his friends. Well, when I go down there, it was SUPER crowded...people were everywhere! I looked and looked for S and just couldn't find her. As it got closer to race time, I started getting nervous for her....It was her first race, and I was sooo sad I wouldn't be there to run it with her.

Finally they sang the National Anthem, and then the gun went off, and we were off...well, not really...with sooo many people, I stood there in the sea of people for probably 5 minutes or so, before we started to move....S-L-O-W-L-Y! Then we started to run, and everyone cheered...and then we STOPPED again! Then, finally we took off. Thank goodness for the chip for my shoe to help with calculating the correct time.

So, when I finally took off, I was running at a pretty good pace just watching all of the crazy people around me...It was a swarm of green everywhere! I saw girls in tutus (made me think of B), girls with knee high St. Patty's Day socks, a guy dressed as a banana, and two crazy guys with nothing on except St. Patty's Day whitie tighties and beer fanny packs around their waist. I was sooo wishing I had a camera!

The first mile or so was pretty good, and then the course stared to gradually go uphill. Not hilly, but the gradual uphill that your legs feel, and makes you feel like you are running in slow motion. This continued until I got to the section of the course that looped us back up the next street towards the finish. This was also pretty inclined, with a few down hills. At around mile 3.5, they had two water stops, and I missed them both! I was starting to get really hot, and yanked off my gloves. I decided to do my Gu at that point (lime flavored...green of course) but, had no water to wash it down. At about that point, I looked over to my left and there was my little buster and my husband. They were just walking around the corner and we just happened to see each other. This made me SUPER excited and pushed me into the last 1.5 miles with more energy. (even though, I realized they wouldn't be at the finish to take any pictures of me crossing the finish line...but at least I got to see them throughout the race)

Finally with about 1 mile left, I came across another water station, and was able to snag a cup of water, but not before the guy in front of me grabbed his, which with the wind made some of his water slam me in the face!

At this point, I hit the turn that would lead me to the finish. I was looking on both sides trying to find my parents...and of course, I see my dad, towering over everyone, and I yelled for them. They cheered me across the finish!

I was excited to be done (it was a fairly challenging run) It wasn't until later that I found S and her husband. Her husband had stayed back and ran with her...and she finished and did a great job!

I grabbed a sports drink, and went to the beer tent where they were giving away free beer. I grabbed one for my dad and husband and then we decided to head somewhere to eat lunch, because it was too cold to hang around for the parade.

It was an exciting race, and until I got home and checked my final time, I wasn't sure what I had ran it in...Online, the final time said:

Time: 45:57

Pace: 9:12

Overall Place: 2407 out of 7960

I was ecstatic! This was the fastest I had ever run 5 miles! So, needless to say, the race was a success!

Label Snob!?!?

2010-03-12T12:52:00.000-08:00

Recently I have been wanting/trying to add a few more pieces to my running wardrobe...I don't have a ton of things, but have been slowly buying items when I can. In doing so, I have ran across a thought, that I might be a label snob!!! What I mean is, if I buy an Under Armour shirt, then I HAVE to have the Under Armour shorts to go with it...plus, the green's have to match perfect etc. Am I just being too picky, or is anybody else like this?
Is it OK to wear a Nike shirt with UA shorts etc? I'm not sure...I mean, I'm sure I wouldn't get sued or anything, but in the running world, is this type of mix matching of labels acceptable?
Is anyone else this obsessed?

As for running, my 5mile St. Patty's Day Run is tomorrow, and they are calling for rain...:( I'm crossing my fingers that it holds off, but I did go out today and buy a visor (UA of course, because the rest of my outfit is UA..hence the above post...) Hoping this will help keep the rain out of my eyes. Either way, I will be racing in downtown St. Louis at 9am tomorrow morning! Yea!
Then Sunday is our 9 mile 1/2 training run. Should be a good weekend of running!

Run with ya soon,
Steph

My New Bling!

2010-03-11T06:22:00.000-08:00

Last night I was suppose to go to the gym to get in my mid-week run and to go to Body Combat. When I got home, my son was a little crabby, and wouldn't eat dinner, and my husband wanted me to help him put our son's playroom back together...He painted it, lime green, earlier in the week. Looks awesome!

I was dressed and ready to go, but as the time got closer to leave, I just felt that I should stay home and help my husband out. Just when I was trying to decide what to do, my husband asked me to close my eyes...He then handed me a "Pandora" bag!!! If you don't know what Pandora is, it is an awesome jewelry line that sells bracelets, necklaces etc. and you can buy charms/slides to go on them. http://www.pandora-jewelry.com/

I have been wanting a Pandora bracelet for quite a while now. A few weeks ago we were out at the mall, and my husband asked me if I wanted to go in and look around. We did, and he ended up buying me a gorgeous bracelet. I really like the bracelet, but now the point is to add charms/slides to it. He told me to make a wish list and he would buy them for me for different occasions. One of the first one's that caught my eye, was the running shoe! I would definitely have to have that one before my 1st marathon! Of course then, I picked out one to represent my husband, and one to represent my son, and then I will probably do some really pretty colored beads ones etc.

Anyways, back to last night...In my indecision on what to do with my workout for the evening, my husband hands me a "Pandora" bag. I was sooo surprised! No occasion at all...just an everyday Wednesday. When I opened it, what was it in, but the running shoe charm.(pic below) Soooo super cute! He told me it was a good luck for my race this weekend! Yea!

Well, I guess you can bet what I decided to do...I stayed home and hung out with my awesome husband and my son (he finally ended up eating dinner!)

So, tonight is my workout night...I have 3 miles on the schedule with Body Pump (weights) afterwards.

Then on to my St. Patty's Day 5 mile run on Saturday. The weather is looking pretty good....50's with 20% chance of rain..hope the rain holds off! We are hoping to stay for the parade afterwards.

Then I have 9 miles scheduled for Sunday. Can't wait!

Hope everyone has a great weekend,

Stephanie

Road ID...Or Not Road ID...That is the Question?

2010-03-09T13:01:00.000-08:00

I was heading out for one of my runs last week. It was around 7:30pm (had to wait until my son went to bed), so needless to say it was dark. My husband always gets a little worried about me running alone at night, but that is one of the only ways to get my runs in.
So, he hands me a flashlight to carry with me as he tells me his normal concerns...be careful, don't get run over etc. I turned to him and said..."what I really need is a Road ID?"
Him not being a runner I explained to him what it was and what I had read about them....I told him that if I would get run over, they would be able to identify me by my Road ID. Well, of course his response is..."You better not get run over...."

So, my question is, how important is having a Road ID when you are running outside? I do quite a few runs outside, and with the weather getting nicer, I'm sure I will do plenty more. I would like to see what others have to say about the pros/cons of a Road ID....

Have a great day!
Run with you later,
Stephanie