Enter to win a FREE entry to ZOOMA Cape Cod or ZOOMA Florida!!

I must receive as email at mytimerunner@yahoo.com confirming that you are interested in being entered for the FREE entry to a Zooma 2016 race (Cape Cod or Florida). 

****Running + Massages + Wine + Yoga + Hanging out with fellow Inspirational women and so much more = Fun Girl's Weekend!

*****And, you now have a chance to win a FREE entry to either a Cape Cod Zooma run or Florida Zooma run!!!! To enter is sooooooooooo EASY too!!!!!! Just follow the steps below:

1- EMAIL subscribe to this blog. Once you have email subscribed, and received the link to confirm your subscription, simply shoot me an email at mytimerunner@yahoo.com stating that you have subscribed. That way I can verify entry. I need to know how to identify you on email and at the one of the social media sites on Facebook or Instagram (see below). If you have already in the past email subscribe, you are one step ahead, and only need to email me at mytimerunner@yahoo.com so I can confirm your email! 

2- Like my face book page My Time Runner Girl or follow my Instagram page at My Time Runner (@mytimerunner). Again, if you have been so kind to have already liked or follow one of these social media sites and email subscribed, just shoot me an email letting me know, so I can confirm information. For an extra entry, like both the Facebook page, and follow on Instagram along with email subscribing! :)

And, THAT IS IT!!! SO EASY, RIGHT?!?!!!!!!!

***WHY RUN ZOOMA? Well, let me give you a few reasons: 

**Zooma Women's Race series provides a scenic, professionally-managed, and timed race- for both Cape Cod and Florida)

**Access to full fit girls weekend schedule- a fitness Expo and an After-Party Expo featuring wine, post race massages, shopping, and music!

**Water and Sports electrolyte drink stationed along the course and at the finish line

** FOOD at the finish line

**ZOOMA medals for all finishers

**Access to special room rates at the official race hotel.

Early Sunday long run..... book recommendation.... and a few pics from yesterday

SUNDAY LONG RUN

Ahhhhhhhh, Sunday = Long run!!!! Above were some of the running peeps that met at 5:30am in order to try to beat the sun coming up..... here in South Georgia, it is humid even at the early morning hours, but once the sun comes up, it is even worse!!! UGH!!! Gotta love the South Georgia summer weather! I probably should have gotten a photo at the start of our run for a couple of reasons: #1- I could have included everyone that met this morning and #2- maybe we wouldn't have looked all sweaty and dead! LOL! :D 

The photo above was a bit of a strain to obtain because my good ole selfie stick broke as I was trying to clip on my phone! oops!!!! Oh well, I stretched my arm out as far as I could and everyone squeezed in tight..... we were all sweaty and stinky.... no one cared that we had to squeeze together!! HA! HA! I tell ya, without these running peeps, the long run would feel and seem so much longerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr! LOL! 

SUNDAY RUN BREAKDOWN

Ok, so, lets get to the Sunday Long run break down. I have been slowed as far as pace. The coach that designed my training plan has instructions stating that my long run pace should range between 10:10-10:40. I did stay controlled the entire time..... I have to say, my legs were feeling the hills that I ran yesterday! Oh yeah! My legs were cursing any elevation or hills that we had to run on our usual route! Anyway, on to the long run break down:

12 miles at an average 10:29 pace

Mile 1- 10:28

Mile 2- 10:24

Mile 3- 10:30

Mile 4- 10:11

Mile 5- 10:32

Mile 6- 10:21

Mile 7- 10:37

Mile 8- 10:39

Mile 9- 10:35

Mile 10- 10:26

Mile 11- 10:36

Mile 12- 10:20

I always walk the track for a mile after running and stretch. As I was stretching, I noticed this lizard!!! Could it be that the one from my post yesterday followed me from South Carolina?!? LOL! I know, I know.... Of course not! But seriously, I think I attract these things!!! HA! HA! :D

What is the orange-red stuff by his mouth? I have no idea! Perhaps, he is a tiny fire breathing dragon........ who knows?!?! LOL

Must read book!!!!

Ok, one of the guys that runs with the Sunday group is a writer!!!!! And, he has published a book that I highly recommend!!!!!! You can check it out on Amazon.... the reviews are pretty fabulous. So, if you are on the search of some summer reading..... go to Amazon and purchase this book, "A Turkey Loves my Wife: The Adventures of Mr. Turkey."  (click on the book title to ease on over to Amazon to check it out!!! )

More pics from yesterday's hilly 5K

Ok, I know that I posted pics yesterday from the hilly 5k ....... but those were pics from my iPhone! We were once again blessed to have a professional photographer at the race to take photos! This guy is GREAT! He is also very talented!!! I mean, come on, as runners we all know that a "decent" race photo is almost impossible!! Especially, if a runner is really pushing! Anyway, ERIK Revills of Erik Revills Photography is AWESOME! Great talent with the camera capturing the moments that are special and meaningful. He volunteers his time to come out to shoot photos of us runners, but he is also a local photographer! I highly recommend him for graduation, wedding, family, etc photos! Check him out at the web page Erik Revills Photography!!!!!!

Above, I was just making the turn before the finish line!!! Below, I was accepting my age group award.

Below, is a group photo of some pretty amazing ladies that I always enjoy seeing at the local running events!!!! And, again, ERIK REVILLS capture a fabulous shot for us all to have! 

Well, I need to shower and get ready for the day! Still have to unpack and finish laundry!!! Don't be jealous!! Then, I need to prepare for the week ahead...... and, most importantly, my 7-year-old's social calendar has a birthday party to attend around 4 :) 

HAPPY SUNDAY FOLKS!!!! Until later..............

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**** Long run today? Hot and humid in your neck of the woods? Slowing pace this summer? 

**** Any book suggestions? Don't forget to check out my friend's book!!! Link to amazon above!!

***** Do you run many local events in your community? Do you have a fabulous photographer like Erik Revills that captures moments that you wouldn't normally be able to get? I mean, yeah, we can take pre and post race pics, but sometimes, it is nice to have action shots! 

Scary little creatures and a Saturday "bun" run

Holy Hills!!!!!!!

So, today, there was a local 5K called the Break Break Bun Run!!! This course consists if hill after hill after hill after hill.......... I think you get the point! LOL! This is a challenging course that is ran through a neighborhood located in the most hilly area! I actually PR'd the course, but by far, not my fastest 5K time. I actually was able to snag 1st in my age group and my friend Rhonda 2nd!! :)

The awards were way too cute!!! Instead of medals, we were handed these cute little shoes with engraving on the side!!! Such a neat idea!!! 

The best thing about the local 5Ks is the people you get to see...... always familiar faces when you run locally! And, the best part, you actually give back and help your local community!!!! Below are some of my favorite running peeps!!!! Runners are the best kind of friends to have!!! 

Below, are some pics of a couple of hills....... and seriously, this course consist of rolling hills... one after the other!!!!! But, we as runners must remember that hills are speed work in disguise!!! So, I often say to myself repeatedly in my head, "Suck it up Buttercup!" 

And, I just had to take a pic of one local policeman that was blocking and re-directing traffic for all of the runners safety!! These are pretty cool guys/ladies!!! And, with all the latest negative media, I wanted to bring positive attention to all the men and women that server to protect communities!!! I always make a point of saying "thank you" when I run past a policeman.  

Below is the front of the T-shirt........ cute, right?!?

Creepy creatures!!!!

Ok, so you remember my recent blog posting about all the alligators that we saw at Kiawah, SC. Well, this is my bed........ and, the entire week, I tried to catch this lizard! Even had my son try who usually catches these back home!!! On the last day, while packing, this lizard sat right there on the bed as if to be saying "Good-bye!" LOL!!! 

Then, when I got home and was unpacking...... I took some trash out to place in the outside trash can....... only to be surprised by a BLACK WIDOW!!!! That's right!!! I said, A BLACK WIDOW!!!! She was just inside the trash lid!!!!!! I spray her with wasp spray that shoots from like 20 feet....... I believe I was more scared of the black widow spider more than the lizard I shared a room with or the alligators that I saw along the bike trails in Kiawah!!!!!. 

GOTTA RUN!!! UNTIL LATER!!!!! HOPE YOU ARE HAVING A GREAT WEEKEND!!! 

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Hills..... LOVE THEM? HATE THEM? 

Scary creatures..... what makes you get the tee-bee-gee-bees? Spiders? Alligators? Do tell!

WIN A FREE ENTRY TO A ZOOMA 2016 RUN: Cape Cod or Florida!!

****Running + Massages + Wine + Yoga + Hanging out with fellow Inspirational women and so much more = Fun Girl's Weekend!

*****And, you now have a chance to win a FREE entry to either a Cape Cod Zooma run or Florida Zooma run!!!! To enter is sooooooooooo EASY too!!!!!! Just follow the steps below:

1- EMAIL subscribe to this blog. Once you have email subscribed, and received the link to confirm your subscription, simply shoot me an email at mytimerunner@yahoo.com stating that you have subscribed. That way I can verify entry. I need to know how to identify you on email and at the one of the social media sites on Facebook or Instagram (see below). If you have already in the past email subscribe, you are one step ahead, and only need to email me at mytimerunner@yahoo.com so I can confirm your email! 

2- Like my face book page My Time Runner Girl or follow my Instagram page at My Time Runner (@mytimerunner). Again, if you have been so kind to have already liked or follow one of these social media sites and email subscribed, just shoot me an email letting me know, so I can confirm information. For an extra entry, like both the Facebook page, and follow on Instagram along with email subscribing! :)

And, THAT IS IT!!! SO EASY, RIGHT?!?!!!!!!!

***WHY RUN ZOOMA? Well, let me give you a few reasons: 

**Zooma Women's Race series provides a scenic, professionally-managed, and timed race- for both Cape Cod and Florida)

**Access to full fit girls weekend schedule- a fitness Expo and an After-Party Expo featuring wine, post race massages, shopping, and music!

**Water and Sports electrolyte drink stationed along the course and at the finish line

** FOOD at the finish line

**ZOOMA medals for all finishers

**Access to special room rates at the official race hotel.

I will randomly select a winner in 2 weeks! The winner can choose either the Cape Cod run or the Florida run! 

************** UNTIL LATER!!!! HAVE A GREAT DAY! 

Running with the GATORS... Literally!!!

Business and Pleasure!!!!!

This week, I am mixing business with pleasure!! I am attending a Medical conference at Kiawah, SC. As a Nurse Practitioner, I have to have a certain amount of continuing educational credits in order to keep my license active. This year, I selected a conference during the summer so that my son could come too!!! My friend Brandy LOVES it here, and is the one who actually made me aware of the conference. My mom is watching him while I am in conference......... Kiawah is a beautiful and exciting place to visit! I was even able to get in a short run today while my son rode a bicycle in front of me! 

Once out of conference, I met up with my son and mom for lunch...... it was a bit after actual lunch time, and we were starving!!! Therefore, I didn't change out of my dress until after getting a bite to eat!

TIME TO EXPLORE

After our lunch, our bicycles had been delivered to our villa!!!! Now we're talking!!! We had wheels to explore the area....... so, my son and I were off!!!!

There are these signs that you see on the bike trails ....... they are usually located around the areas of the trails that run along marshy water areas........ this sign is to be taken seriously!!! Keep on scrolling and you will know what I mean!!!

Today, while I was running and my son riding a bike along a bike trail, we came across the guy below that was in the marshy water RIGHT next to the trail that we were on!!!! Seriously, this is the closes I have ever been to a Alligator without a barrier between me and one!!!!! This guy was GINORMOUS!!!!! I MEAN HUGE!!!

Below, you see this guy swimming away...... I wish I had started to video sooner.....

We also saw less threatening animals like the deer below!!! He was literally in the parking lot next to our villa!!!!!! 

I can see how people love to come to Kiawah, SC. It is a beautiful place!

Our adventures will continue for the rest of the week! My conference goes until Friday. The speakers at the conference have been FABULOUS!!!! Very fun, interactive with audience, and delivering interesting up to date information to be applied to my practice as a Nurse Practitioner. Time really flies while in conference. I have to say, this has been a trip to remember. I hope to get in a couple more short runs in and continue to explore the island on bike. Hopefully, the alligators will leave us alone!!! :D

UNTIL LATER!!!!!! Hope everyone is having a GREAT week!!!

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Have a FAVORITE running location? 

Ever came close to wild life that was a little bit too close for comfort?

Selecting a Pacer tips, Encouragement, & when to know to go slow....

Life has been CRAZY busy lately.... not bad, but just trying to keep my head above water. I only mention that only to explain why I have been MIA from this blog..........

So, today was a local 5K..... the South Georgia heat and humidity was blazing!!!! Seriously, 99% humidity is no friend of any runner!!! Especially Meeeeeee!!!!!!!

Hopefully the pain now will help in Future

My friend Brandy placed first in her age group and I placed second in my age group. Not my best time, but definitely better than my last 5K time. I push through this crazy south Georgia heat in hopes that when fall/winter comes, I will reap the benefits.....  we shall seeeeeeeee :D

I have to say.... there were  couple of times that I just wanted to slow way down and walk........ but, there were several of the runners that I run long runs with on Sundays who are much speedier than me at these 5Ks that were hollering out to me and kept me motivated! It was an out and back course.... so, as they had already made the turn, each one yelled out to me! I needed that! In this heat, I needed all the motivation I could get! I wish I could be one of those runners that had a mind set of "It is only 3 miles, I can suffer for that short of time!" But, I tend to give up the push and give into the heat!!! I am working on getting the mind set.......... ****SIGH*****

Running Friends ROCK

The above group are some awesome friends and runners.... these people keep me motivated!!!!!! They are one of the reasons I show up to run..... love seeing these peeps!!!

TIPS WHEN USING A PACER

The below picture is Frank, one of the local runner friends. He runs about my pace, but a little faster. I was going to use him to help me pace this event........ but, after the start, I thought I had lost sight of him, when in reality, he was behind me.... LOL! He ended up passing me at a water stop.... but I never saw him pass me. I think the push in the heat makes me blind..... seriously, I don't even remember the course after running! LOL! Anyway, I thought of some tips when using a pacer, they are as follows: 

1- The person you are using to pace you probably should be aware that you are using them as a pacer...... I probably wouldn't have lost sight of Frank, if I had let him be aware that he was going to pace me

2- DON'T GO OUT TO FAST..... ugh, this is something that I constantly work on..... if I hadn't gone out too fast, I wouldn't have lost site of my pacer..........

3- When picking your pacer, pick one that will help you! A runner with experience that can stay control and consistent..... hence, why I selected Frank. He tends to be able to stay controlled...... I slowed toward the end because I did not stay controlled at the start..... resulting in negative splits! 

** I just LOVE my Runner's World Calendar that my friend Michelle gave me...... below is one of the day's sayings.......

I had to laugh because at a local 5K recently, a friend of mine that just started running asked how everyone prevents getting a wedgy.... I simply said, "You aren't suppose to wear underwear!" She was like, "Good to know!!!" LOL!!! 

The below picture is after speed work on Monday....... I shared this earlier in the week on Instagram..... Gotta love my hair... looks like Mary from the movie, "Something about Mary." And, the guy to the far left is the coach...... I think we pushed him to his breaking point with our whining..... ok, may I was the only one doing that!!! LOL! :D

There is a time to know when to go SLOWWWWWW

Ok, I know that every person who starts out running or who has been running for a long time, the focus tends to be on time/pace. But, from what I have been reading lately and what my coach has done with my training plans, slowing down can make you faster!!!! Ok, I do not mean slow all the time, but every run you do should not be at your race pace. I follow an AWESOME blogger who always shares GREAT information. This past week, she had a "guest" blogger take over her blog for the day on this EXACT topic!!! I LOVED it sooooooooooo much that I I am going to share with you!!!!! And, if you don't follow this blogger, The Hungry Runner Girl, YOU SHOULD! The link to the blog post is HEREEEEEEEEE! 

Ok, now, some of the things that kept me busy this week.... or should I say, that kept my son busy........ Above, he attended Vacation Bible School and had a BLAST!!!!!!!  He so LOVEDDDDDDD IT! 

Below, he fed the birds at a local theme park, Wild Adventures! 

Below, is my son when the power went out one night. Gotta love a 7 year old when there is no power..... he knows how to make the best of it! How he found these monster teeth, beaded necklace, and a flash light in the dark..... I will never know! 

Gotta run......... UNTIL LATER!!!!!!!!!! Hope everyone is having an AWESOME weekend!!!!!

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**Ever use a pacer? Any tips to share?

**Heat? How are you dealing?

**Do you tend to slow long runs?  To run 2-3 min from your "race pace"?!

Happy 4th of July........ Tough 5K, but a fun day!

Hope everyone had a fun and safe 4th of July!!!!!! Today, I participated in a local 5k.... had high hopes to run better than I did. It was a struggle today, and I just couldn't seem to push to get speed! Tough day as far as running goes. I did PR (personal record) the course itself and improved my time from last year..... so, perhaps not a total loss. Last year, I ran this 5k in 28:48. This year, my official time was 27:25.... so, a little better over a minutes time. I talked with the Coach after the race and he stated that the weather conditions really weren't a match for runners. He went into this long explanation about for every degree the weather is above a certain temperature that you add so many seconds to each mile time...... he said that most likely you would need to add 2-3 extra minutes to expected time for weather like today! To quote Coach Todd Smoot as he wrote on the events Facebook page, "Tough conditions today, arguably the highest humidity and temperatures of the 11 years. Effects the time - but not the grit, guts and determination each must demonstrate to get to that finish line"... He made me feel a bit better.... I was pretty discouraged feeling afterwards..... It was odd, I felt pretty good, but no matter what, i could not get any speed!!! It was weird! I don;t know how to explain in words, but I felt like I could go, but my body wouldn't!!! But, it is... what it is... and the only option at this point is to look forward! Quitting is not an option...... and, hopefully, if I hang in there with this brutal South Georgia heat, I will see benefits in the fall/winter! We shall see!

Break down of Run

Mile 1- 8:13

Mile 2- 9:22

Mile 3- 9:07

The 5K started in front of the American legion.......

The below picture was me AFTER The race! I was a bit disappointed at this point...... satisfied that I PR'd the course, but disappointment that I came NO WHERE close to my projected time! But, it is ok.I did manage to make it in the top 20 females. 

Couple of my friends and I sported our Team RWB shirts!!!! 

The below picture is some more of my running peeps..... running friends are the BEST!!! This was before the race, and we were pretty pumped! 

Today, we were lucky to have Erik Revills of Erik Revills photography at the 5k snapping photos! He is so talented!!! He seems to have a gift to capture moments that are truly amazing!!! The following pictures are ones that he captured........

The rest of my day was spent cleaning out closets.... Don't be jealous! LOL! It was something that needed to be done and a task that is not finished....... will be working on that for the next couple of weekends! Trying to de-clutter! How is it that so much crap builds up so quickly? UGH! 

Gotta run..... until later! Thanks for the support of this blog! 

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How did you spend your 4th? 

Run today? 

Ever been disappointed in a race that you felt good, but just couldn't seem to push?

Random Post.... not much running in the last 2 days

Yesterday, I decided not to run...... I knew that we had plans to go to the local state park, and there would  be a great deal of swimming going on, therefore, I slept in!!!! So, ZERO miles for Wednesday!! And, before I get into displaying pics from trip to the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, let me tell you why I have ZERO miles so far for today (Thursday). 

#1- As I was running, I came upon this!!!!!Eeeeeek!!!!!!! And, I quickly turned around!!! I was only a half mile into my run at this time. But, there was no other decision except to TURN AROUND QUICKLY!!!!!! I kept looking back....not sure what I was thinking.... I mean, I don't think he was going to chase me!!! LOL!!!! And, NO! I was not that close to take this picture!!!! I zoomed in from afar!!!! VERY FAR AWAY!!!!!!

#2- No sooner than I snapped  the picture of the snake, the bottom of the sky FELL OUT!!!!!!!!! And, I mean, all of a sudden!!!!! Luckily, I was only a tenth of a mile from my car, but I had to run through side ways raining rain with pretty strong winds!! I GOT SOAKED!!!!!!!! I was DRENCHED!!!! Therefore, I headed back to the house, annnnndddd, now I sit here posting a blog post that will be pretty much just a few pictures of my vacation!! Because, I have no running adventures to post about! Oh well!!! So, warning.... totally random post!!

Ok, so..... why the random pics of flip flops on the sand?..... not just trying to be clever with photography.... LOL!!!! Let me tell you! I need a packing list for the beach! Usually, I will use one. However, this time, I thought without being rushed to leave town, I would be ok without a list!!! WRONG!!!!!!!! Yep, the 3 major things that should be at the top of the packing list for a beach trip..... flip flops, beach towels, and swim suit!!!! And, guess what were the 3 things that I forgot?!??!!!! Yep, all 3 of those!!!! I packed my son's... my husband packed his, but I totally forgot mine!!! UGH!!! Found these gem of flip flops at the Dollar General store!!!!! Score!! Only out $1! And, for the towels, I am using the ones in the rental house! The swim suit, I picked one up on the way down here when we passed a Belk! Luckily, I got it 1/2 off!!! 

Early yesterday morning, my son and I walked the beach looking for shells.... he told me that I just needed to take a picture of this one... LOL! Can you even see it? So little, but he was so proud! Therefore, I had no other option but to snap a picture! HA! HA! 

The picture below shows that my son was on a mission of walking the beach for shells....... he was quite serious about the sea shell search! Oh, annnndddd, of course he had BIG plans of making a sand castle! 

The 3rd picture below was our sand castle...... we were pretty stoked about it and proud.... that was until we walked down the beach to find the other 3 sand sculptures!!!!! A treasure chest full of treasure!!! A turtle that was my absolutely favorite!!!!! And, my son's favorite pick was the Fort! Seriously, how do people make such sand sculptures? Amazing!!! Wish I had actually seen them make them!!!

Below is me and my little shadow!!! :)

Below is a picture of me.... that my husband snapped! He said to simply "smile"..... I got a little carried away....

I son absolutely loves the wave surfing.... 

Below is my son's favorite shot of the day..... in his words, "that is so cool!!!" LOL!!!! He just thought the picture was awesome although it shows him wiping out!!! HA! HA! :D

And, below is my husband..... this is his action shot!!! LOL!!! He pretty much just chilled in the water!!! :D

Below, was the most awesome find of the day!!! A blue button jellyfish or also known as a Porpita Porpita 

Well, gotta run..... need to figure out plans for the day.... wondering if weather will clear up so that I can run...... UNTIL LATER!!!!!!! Only 1 more day left of vacation and then it is back to reality! ***keeping those thoughts out of my mind right now though!!!***

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Scared of snakes? I am terrified!!!!! If I had seen that snake at home and I was running by myself, I would be inside running on dreadmill!!! However, no treadmill here!! I will never say a bad word about the treadmill again!! Today, i wish I had the option to run the treadmill!! 

Favorite vacation spot? My family is partial to the beach!

Disconnecting for a bit, but with an "are you kidding me" situation...

So, where does one go to disconnect from the world? The beach, of course!!! :) 

But, a vacation with my husband is always an adventure.... or, should I say, there is always something that challenges us.... we just don't usually encounter a challenge right from the get go.... now, let me explain.....

So, we rented a beach house..... a house that we have rented a couple of times in the past.... a house that we know pretty well.... therefore, we always rental from the same rental agency. We used to come to the beach at least once a year, however, we have not made it for the last 2 years because of one thing or another.....  Ok, so needless-to-say,  this was something familiar, and not something that was going to require "figuring out".... if you know what I mean when you go some where new...... but, NOPE!!!! There was INDEED some figuring stuff out!!! And, RIGHT FROM THE GET GO!!!!! 

The picture below is of a sign..... a sign that used to say, "Paradise Coast Rentals"...... as you see, the sign is no longer there!!!!

The picture below is the house that used to be the rental office...... yep, this house is being gutted!!!! No office here!!!! Did the representative mention that they had moved....... NOPE!!!! Is the "new" address of the rental office on the website home page?.... NOPE!!!!! So, I called the rental office number....... reached a recording.... there was an "Emergency" number that was given to call in case of an emergency... and NOT FINDING THE RENTAL OFFICE TO PICK UP KEYS TO YOUR RENTAL HOUSE IS AN EMERGENCY!!!!! So, yes, I called the number! 

Seriously, the first thought that I had come to mind was the "National Lampoons Vacation"...... remember? Wally World ( I think that is what it was called)...... being closed? After all that travel, and the one place you were going was closed!!!!! I was laughing hysterically, my husband? Not so much! LOL! He kept saying, "You have to be kidding me?!!!" 

After talking with the rental representative on call...... we FOUND IT!!! Yeah!!!!! We were able to pick up keys from a drop box they used after hours......... challenge met! WHEW! 

LONG RUN- SUNDAY 

Prior to leaving Sunday, I met with a local running group to get my long runout of the way..... was suppose to be 12, but I got in 10. It was hot and humid.... and I was ready to get home and get packed to leave. Anyway, here is breakdown of Sunday's long run: 

10.01 miles at an average 10:07 pace

Mile 1-10:36

Mile 2-10:02

Mile 3- 10:00

Mile 4- 10:13

Mile 5- 10:19

Mile 6- 9:31

Mile 7: 10:14

Mile 8- 9:55

Mile 9- 10:22

Mile 10- 9:56

The morning after we arrive, I was pretty excited about getting outside for a run. I snapped the below selfie prior to running..... man, I could easily get used to running with a beach view!!!! Something about the beach calms you! Even if it is hot! 

BREAK DOWN OF RUNS so far

MONDAY: 5.01 miles at an average 9:33 pace

Mile 1- 9:44

Mile 2- 9:26

Mile 3- 9:34

Mile 4- 9:37

Mile 5- 9:24

Tuesday: 5.02 miles at an average 9:39 pace

mile 1- 10:00

mile 2- 9:45

mile 3- 9:43

mile 4- 9:35

mile 5- 9:15

***Slower overall pace than Monday, but all negative splits**

**I think I am getting a little better running in the heat.... not great at it, but getting better ***

There were signs that there were other runners on the bike trail that I was running....... yep, 2 dropped water bottles are a sign that runners will be coming.... and, sure enough, I passed two other runners! 

Sharing the beach with this lil guy is the best thing ever!!! He truly loves the beach about as much as his dad and I....... 

He spent a good part of the day wave surfing......

After dinner, a rare photo was taken.... a photo of our family of 3.... very rare that all 3 of us are in a picture together....LOL! Not on purpose, just seems to happen that way. And, of course, I could not snap one without my son making a goofy face.... yes, rare photo opportunity and he makes this face! LOL! :D

Sunsets are beautiful here..... whether you are looking at the bay or beach side...........

Well, thought I would take a minute to drop a few lines and catch up.....gotta run, UNTIL LATER!!!! 

****Excuse typos--- no time to proof read****

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***Where is your go to vacation site?

***Are vacations always challenging in one way or another? Are you that person that things just seem to happen to?

Fun week of Basketball camp & the heat won against me today during a 5K

Today, I decided to run a local 5k that supports a scholarship fund at Georgia Military College here in Valdosta, Ga. A friend of mine is the race director! And, some of my favorite running peeps were running too, so... I just had to run!!!!!

RUNNING BRINGS AWESOME PEOPLE IN OUR LIFE

My friend Lisa, pictured above, reminded me that this is the race, exactly one year ago, that we met!!! Today, was our race-anniversary...... I tell ya, one thing about running, it brings some of the most amazing friends into your life!!! Runners are special people because each and every one is so supportive of each other!!! Running friends are the BEST!!! 

RUNNING PEEPS!

Missing one of our own in the running community!

Below, my friend Lisa is holding a sign that she made for one special person in the running community that could not participate today due to medical reasons....... but, he will be back soon! And, he will be back better than ever!!!

Honorary Runner

My friend, Lisa,is holding a sign for a special buddy that is a honorary runner...... yeah, Lisa is pretty cool! She runs for a boy named Chasten and dedicates her miles to him through a special organization. The organization matches physically challenged people with runners who dedicate their miles to them! I learned of the organization through Lisa. More about the organization can be found at this link (HERE)

Lisa pictured above holding the sign was the race director today!!! She did a jam up job!! It was awesome!!! Well organized! Fun!! And, most importantly, she did the 2 most awesome things:

#1 she Did not make me pay extra for leaving my race packet that had my race bib in it at home ...... she simply gave me another bib number at the last minute! Oops! :/ 

#2- Lisa put this sprinkler (pictured below)  in her front yard that was along the course so that it reached the road!!!! Oh yes, I so ran through it!!!! 

Oh, and there is a #3..... she had these awesome cold wet towels that were handed out at the finish line!!!!! Oh, man...... best thing EVER!!!!! Especially here in South Georgia where it is simply FREAKIN HOT!!!!!!!

I was not match for the heat and humidity! I started off pretty strong, and I thought I might have a good run, but the heat beat me down!!! However, I did manage to snag first in age group! 

RUN BREAK DOWN

*****5k at 26:52; I came in #12 out of 73

Mile 1- 7:55

Mile 2- 8:51 (at mile 2.33---i know this to be exact because I looked at my watch,and  I was passed by 3 girls-- that is when I decided to walk a bit, the heat got me! I threw in the towel at that point... walked a bit and then started back at a comfortable pace... cruised on into the finish)

Mile 3- 9:22

Basketball camp!

My son attended a local basketball camp that was put on by the local university where I attended Undergrad: Valdosta State University

He was super excited!!!!!!!

Camp was a great deal of work and he collapsed each night when we made it home!!

He had the BEST time ever!!!! And he camper racked up with a trophy, basketball, certificate, picture with the coach, and a t-shirt!!! Oh, and memories that will last forever!!!

Well, gotta run!! Busy day ahead!!! UNTIL LATER!!!!

THANK YOU ALL WHO SUPPORT THIS BLOG....... HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!!!

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Has running brought amazing friends to your life? Aren't they the BEST?!!!

Run today? Is the HEAT getting to you? How do you deal?

Fun things this week? Do tell!!!

Those with kids, how are you keeping them busy this summer? Camps? I'd like to hear!! 

Oops, forgot to include actual long run breakdown.....

Ok, got a little ahead of myself and TOTALLY forgot to break down long run today...... oops! Anyway, here is is:

Breakdown of long run: 11.01 miles at average pace 10:07

Mile 1-10:49 (warm up)

Mile 2- 10:12

Mile 3- 10:10

Mile 4- 9:39

Mile 5- 9:47

Mile 6- 9:41

Mile 7- 10:13

Mile 8- 10:19

Mile 9-10:29

Mile 10- 10:11

Mile 11- 9:46

Was a great long run with friends to keep me going through the heat and humidity!!!

HAVE A GREAT REST OF THE WEEKEND!!!!

Sunday= Long Run day..... and run in with friends

Sunday= Long Run day!!! I was hopeful that today would be a good run...... after all, I have hit every work out this week which is the first time within the last month due to "life" situations getting in the way! It was hot and humid, but not as humid as it has been. Plus, at times, there seemed to be a slight breeze..... but still, hot and humid! 

I met up with two other runners.... Rhonda would is pictured on the left above and another runner who isn't pictured because he had to cut off after mile 8 since that was all on his plan for today. It was good to have 2 other runners with me...... with the heat and humidity, other runners will motivate you to keep going.....

As Rhonda and I were wrapping up our run, we ran into our friend Frank pictured above who is another local runner who had just wrapped up his run..... That is one thing about running, it brings a lot of cool people and friends into your life! 

Annndddd, I ran into my friend, Tammy (pictured above), who I have not seen in almost 20 years!!! She is a nurse and actually was one of my bosses (hope that is grammatically correct) when I worked in the hospital back around 1996-1999 time frame! I was so excited!!!!!! It seems like just yesterday I was working in ICU!! It DOES NOT feel like it has been as long as it has!! Tammy is pretty AWESOME!! She is the most encouraging person! Plus, she is a UF Gator fan!! That in itself lets you know she is pretty dang AWESOME!!! GO GATORS!!!

My son continues to work hard in the garden! He is so proud!!!! And, let me tell you, the corn, squash, and okra is amazing!!!! So happy about the turn out. Last year, our corn didn't do as well. 

Pictured above is such an awesome treat!!!! One bag will last forever! One little piece of bark will satisfy a sweet tooth!!! This is dark chocolate that is a little salty and has a crunch from chopped up almonds!!!! This is a go to treat for sure!!!!!! Life is about balance, and this fits well in a well balance diet!!! ;)

Well, gotta run.......................UNTIL LATER!!! Hope all the Dad's out there had a relaxing Father's Day!!!! 

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Run today? Do tell........ has running brought you pretty AWESOME friends!! I know it has brought some pretty cool people in my life! 

Have a go to treat? Please share!!!! 

Garden? Do you plant one? We do every year.... kinda of fun actually although lots of work too!

Saturday.... Humid, but fun 5 mile run

So, a little over a week ago, my friend Arlene asked if I knew there was a 5 mile run in Thomasville, Ga. She informed me that she had already signed up......... of course, I searched on-line to check out the event! 

The event was being put on by the First Baptist Church in Thomasville, Ga. The first thing that I noticed was the 8:20am start time!!!! Yes, I would get to sleep later, but the down side was that in South Georgia in June, 8:20 am meant running in 96% humidity!!! Humidity is no friend to any runner!!!! Then, I thought about the hills in Thomasville..... there are rolling hills there!!! So, after weighing the pros and cons to running this event, and the cons outweighing the pros..... I of course decided why not run? And, there I was registering on-line!!!! Then, I texted my friend Arlene and informed her that I broke under peer-pressure and signed up!!!! LOL!!! No, seriously, I had 11 miles on Saturday and 5 miles on Sunday on the training schedule........ why not just switch the days and avoid another treadmill running day?!!!!

SO GLAD I DECIDED TO RUN!

It truly was a fun run!!!! I absolutely LOVED it! Very well organized and the Volunteers were great!!!!!! I decided to run with just a little push, but comfortable......and, I did something that I never do.... didn't pay attention to my watch! I approached this race as a training run and didn't "race" it! Just a little push!

I enjoyed interacting with the volunteers:

1-at the 5K turn around, I told the volunteers that "the smart runners signed up for the 5K and not the 5 mile"... they laughed and encouraged me on......

2-during the 4th mile, I informed some of the volunteers that I had a friend following me in tie-dye shirt that talked me into this, and I was going to kill her at the finish line (of course, I didn't mean this, but the volunteers laughed).... and one of them actually kept a look out for her and told her!!!!!! LOL!!!! She informed me of this ta the end!! HA! HA! :D

3-also, during the 4th mile, I noticed a guy closing the gap between us.... during a water stop, I walked and took a water cup to pour on my head.....and I told the volunteers at that stop if they would trip the guy behind me, I would appreciate it (again, only kidding!! And they laughed!) But at the finish line, the guy came up to me and asked if I had indeed said that...... I confessed... we laughed.... and he told me that even if I had continued to walk after the water stop that he wouldn't have caught me.... LOL! I told him that I didn't know if he was running like a training run, or if he was about to go all out! HA! HA! 

Beating the Humidity:

To beat the humidity today........ I had developed a strategy prior to the race! I decided to hand carry a water bottle to drink from..... then, I used the water that was handed out at the mile water stations to splash on my face, pour on my head, and pour down my back!!!!  My sun visor was soaked!!!! But, you know what, this made the race so much easier....... I actually never felt too hot! It was awesome! 

Breakdown of run:

1 mile-8:37

2- mile- 8:37

3-mile- 9:04

4- mile- 9:54

5-mile-9:36

Honestly, at 8:20 in the morning with 96% humidity, I am A-OKAY with those times!

***The awards were in an auditorium!!! How cool is that?!! And, there was AC!!! YES!!!! 

They had the winners walk up to the stage area to hand out medals! It was pretty cool! 

I actually won the Female Master's Category for the 5 mile run!

Pretty neat medal!

My friend, Arlene, snagged 2nd in her age group!! Woot! Woot! 

I drank a protein drink right after the run..... but below, was lunch! YUM!!!!! 

My husband and son worked hard to savage corn from the garden .... we had strong winds about 2 days ago and practically laid the garden flat!!! A neighbor down the road creams it for us!!! 

Gotta run! Hope everyone had a GREAT Saturday!!!! Thanks to everyone who supports this hobby of mind writing this blog..... you guys ROCK!!!! 

UNTIL LATER.........................

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RUN today? Or, did you have training on the books for an upcoming event? Do tell, I always love to hear what everyone else is up to!!!

Ever sign up for an event that you weren't completely sure of? Only to have the BEST time ever?!!! If yes, tell me about it!!! 

Tuesday.......staying inside from the heat and the ginormous flies

Let's Talk Training

Above is my training scheduled for the week..... for most part, I am staying on track. Yes, I missed speed work on Monday at the track, but my son was still recovering from the stomach virus that he had.... there was no way that I was going to drag him to the track in almost 100% humidity! Just too hot for a little guy that was on the verge of being dehydrated in the first place and still fatigued. 

So, Monday.... after repeatedly hitting the snooze button, and giving myself a pep talk, I managed to ROLL out of bed to get ready to run! Something about knowing that your run will be on a treadmill makes you not too excited about it....... but, I am determined to try to stay on track this week! 5 miles at an average 9:45 pace......

Today, Tuesday, I was off from work. Therefore, I slept in a bit, but got up early enough to run prior to my son getting up. Again, it was the "dreadmill" for 5 miles! The treadmill can make 5 miles seem so much longer than it actually is......ugh! But, I accomplished the run...... 5 miles at an average 9:56 pace....another run checked off the training schedule for the week! YAY! :D

There are a couple of reasons that my runs during the weekdays are on the Treadmill......

1- I have to run super early in order to get a run in prior to getting ready for work, and getting my son up for the day..... and I live too far from town to make it there and back

2- It is really HOT and HUMID here in South Georgia!!! Annnnddddd, I am not kidding when I say it is almost "100% humidity by mid day!" It really is!!! Therefore, a run later in the day, NOT AN OPTION! 

The picture below I found on Pinterest...... and it is so true for here in South Georgia!!! It is seriously HOT!!!

3- A HUGE REASON for not running outside mid day is that you could potentially be chased down by one of these Gigantic Flies!!! Yes, that is a fly on my car window!!! And, this picture is true to size! Man, when they bite..... they hurt and scar you!!!! 

My husband had a doctor's appt today, and my son accompanied us on the trip...... yeah, found out there that he wore 2 different flip flops!!!! You can get away with stuff like that when you are 7 years old

So, when you hit 40 years of age, it seems like instantly you become farsighted..... reading glasses become like hair ties.... can never find them. So, yes, I have reading glasses stashed everywhere! Car, purse, tables throughout the house.... etc... 

The reason I even bring this up.... is I have a friend (that I will not mention by name) cracked on me the other day when I stated that I have to wear my reading glasses to paint my fingernails. She told me that I really should consider going to a nail salon and not be troubled with finding my reading glasses and wearing them to see my nails... LOL..... but hey, I get the job done!!! And, not too shabby if I say so myself!!! HA!HA! Plus, I honestly would never find time to get to a salon and I wouldn't be much on waiting.... I would only sit there and think of a million things that I could be accomplishing!!! :D

Well, I have a 7 year old begging to go outside.... UNTIL LATER!

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***** How is your training going? Training for something particular? Me, nothing as of yet.... still thinking

**** What drives you to the treadmill? Time of day, pesky insects, heat?... or am I just a wimp?

****Nail salon worth the time and money? Me, I prefer to paint my own nails....

Life, "it is, what it is", just run with it.....

Yes, this last week absolutely did not go as planned...... only made 2 training runs for the ENTIRE week!!!!! My running consisted of a 4 mile run on the treadmill Wednesday morning and  then a 4.21 mile run today. ****sigh**** But, seriously, it is ok. Missing runs, and having a bad run today is SO NOT worth stressing over!!!!! There are more serious challenges that others face, and it is all about putting things in perspective! 

"Life Happens!"

So, let's back up to what has been happening in life...... Thursday, 6/2/16 I had to be seen by my GYN for a simply procedure. Without going into TMI (Too Much Information), some girl runners don't have periods due to running.......but, I am totally the opposite! UGH! So irregular! Seems to occur all month long! (Sorry if any guys reading this.....lol)....... anyway, I was started on 5 days of antibiotic post procedure.....  and Antibiotics can just make you feel yucky! 

Then, Friday, 6/3/16, I started to have summer head cold symptoms!!! Ugh..... summer colds are the worse!!!!! Saturday, the head congestion and fatigue worsened! I had to work.... and right after work, I went straight home and showered..... then, I did absolutely NOTHING! Sunday, I literally felt like CRAP! UGH! 

So, yeah, the below quote from my Runner's World Calendar sums up my week..... I kept saying, "Tomorrow, I will get back on track.........."

Thursday, 6/9/2016, I started to feel back to normal once again..... Then, I received a call during the day that my son started to vomit!!!! A HUGE clue should have been when he didn't eat breakfast that morning. Bless his heart! Nausea and vomiting Thursday........Diarrhea on Friday........ then, Saturday he slept most of the day to catch up on missed sleep due to up and down all night on Thursday and Friday. 

Today, Sunday, he is feeling much better ,but simply no energy. But, he is turning the corner and getting closer to normal. 

Therefore, I tried to run today.....set out with a goal of 8, but by the time I had gotten to town to run, that goal turned to 6!! It was so humid!!! 97% humidity at that!!!! Seriously, humidity is not a friend of anyone runner!!!! It is brutal to try to run in humid conditions! Especially when you have only ran one time for the last 7 days like me!!

At 4.21 miles, I was done!!!! My average pace for that was 10:23!!! I decided to throw in the towel....... and, I walked another 2.48 miles back to my car!!!!!! The humidity beat me today!!! But, I will just plan on getting back on track this week!!!!! I most likely will miss my track work tomorrow due to my son not being 100%. It is too hot for him to hang out in the heat and play with the other kids...... but, that is ok, I will run, but it will be on the treadmill in the morning!

One thing that I am excited about are these Powerbeats2 --- they are wireless!!!! Easy to use! I immediately charged them up, put them in my ears and danced around the house listening to them!!! So far, I Loveeeeeee them!!!!! Haven't tried them as of yet with running, but will soon! I am sure they are going to work out great!!! I will let you know! BEST PART? They were $70 off!!!! Can't beat that!!!!! 

Running Fuel

I am trying to clean up my diet........ Trying to consume more fruits and vegetables ........ I admit, I am NOT GOING TO GIVE UP CHOCOLATE! NOPE! Not going to do it!!! And, an occasionally, I will have  a cupcake! After all, life is about balance, right?!?! :D

I am on Pinterest, so, if I find some awesome recipes, I will share them with you!!!!! 

GARDEN 2016

Below, is a picture of our corn field!!!! 

Here is a close up of the corn!!!!! It is so sweet tasting!!! 

Below is my lil farmer pointing out squash!!!! YUM!!! He is quite proud of his garden!!!

Below, we are starting to see OKRA!!!!! Okra is so delicious when grilled ...... just add a little Extra Virgin Olive oil, salt/pepper.... YUM! YUM!

My son spotted deer tracks heading to the gardening!

Annnddd, the tracks lead right to the Okra! Last year, the deer ate our okra..... looks like this year, the deer are at it again! Who knew that deer liked Okra?!!?!!!

Annnnddddd, it appears that the squirrels are enjoying the corn!!! We found corn husks below a near by tree..... little stinkers! 

So, on to the next week!!!! I think we have everyone well in my household!!! Will see how the next week goes..... thinking positive! Can't wait to try the Powerbeats2........ 

Have a great week! UNTIL LATER.................................

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Humid where you are running? How are you coping? Any tricks to keeping cool?

Any one raced this weekend? Or training for something particularly? Do tell!!!!! 

Healthy recipes to share? you can email them to mytimerunner@yahoo.com .... I would love any suggestions! Easy preparation would be idea! 

Bad Run Photos........ The Not So Fabulous Aspect of Running

The above photo was from this last week's local 5K...... All 3 of us are friends, and we work at the same office..... by this picture, you would NEVER know!!!! LOL! :D

I decided to compose a blog post of some "not-so flattering" pics...... is there even such a thing as a flattering running pic?!?! One just has to laugh.......... 

A friend of mine texted me this picture taken at the end of the Memorial Day 5K..... she said that my hair looked like a "crown," when in reality, I look like I am some type of bird with some crazy feather thing above my head!!!! And, look at my fist..... could I be more tense?!?!! Well, at least I have a thumbs up though.... Why, oh why can't I break this habit?!?!!!!

Above is my first ever 5K!!!!!!! At the age of 40..... and the first race photo I have is me posing in a cheesy cheerleader "spirit finger" pose.... LOL! Once a cheerleader, always a cheerleader, right?!?!

Above picture from a half marathon..... I look like I am in pain, but trying oh so hard to do the "spirit fingers"... ***SIGH**** 

The above photo, from what I can tell, looks like I might be in pain..... probably a good thing it is a blurry photo!!! HA! :D

Then, there is this above photo, I should probably have my head up and not paying attention to my watch..... probably, my biggest down fall is being distracted by my watch..... 

My son, on the other hand, always looks like a professional runner!!! If only I could have one race photo that made me look like a decent runner!!!!! LOL!!!!

Well, thought this would be a fun post...... gotta run.... UNTIL LATER!!!

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Race photos? Are you photogenic runner? Or always look like you are struggling? If you dare, share your photo and I will post in a future blog.......

If you are photogenic in running photo, what is you secret?!?!?!?!!! It is your duty to share tips!!! LOL! :D

HEY LADIES.... Oct 2016... A Girl's Weekend Away!! Don't Miss Out!

SAVE 10% with PROMO code: POLLYANNA16 on ANY ZOOMA run in 2016... FLORIDA or CAPE COD

That's right!!! SAVE 10% with PROMO code: POLLYANNA16 on ANY ZOOMA run in 2016... FLORIDA or CAPE COD

HEY LADIES!!! Don't miss out on this year's Zooma Florida event!!! There is a 5K, 12K, and a Half Marathon!!!!! And, the best part, since I am a Zooma Ambassador for 2016, you can receive 10% off with PROMO CODE: POLLYANNA16

Don't delay! Race is capped!!!! Come run with me and meet from inspiring ladies!!!!

****Running + Beach + Shopping + Massages + Wine + Yoga + Hanging out with fellow Inspirational women and so much more = Fun Girl's Weekend!

*** Sign up and mark your calendars for OCT 2016....... and run Zooma Florida with me!!!

Below are pictures of what to expect!!!!!

Seriously, with looking at the pictures above, wouldn't you love a weekend with your girlfriends in paradise!!! Leave reality for a weekend and enjoy a "Girl's Weekend Away!" Just think of the memories?!?  Life is to be ENJOYED and SHARED!!!!! :D

Ok, if you are not convince by those beautiful pictures,  let me list more reasons why YOU want to sign up for Zooma Florida Oct 2016!!!!!

**Zooma Florida is a scenic, professionally-managed, and timed half marathon, 12K, or 5K race (choose which distance you like- the code POLLYANNA 16 works for ALL races)

**Access to full fit girls weekend schedule- a fitness Expo and an After-Party Expo featuring wine from Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, post race massages, shopping, and music!

**Water and Sports electrolyte drink stationed along the course and at the finish line

** FOOD at the finish line

**ZOOMA medals for all finishers (the 2016 medal has not been release yet, but I will be sure to share as soon as it has!!)

**Access to special room rates at the official race hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island!!

So, DON'T DELAY! SIGN UP NOW AT THE ZOOMA FLORIDA WEBPAGE!!!

Don't forget Promo code POLLYANNA16 to save 10%!!!!

DON'T DELAY..... RACE CAPPED AT 1,500 RUNNERS!!!!!!! THIS IS A WEEKEND YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS!!! BRING YOUR FRIENDS, FAMILY, or ANY WOMAN THAT IS AN INSPIRATION IN YOUR LIFE!!!!!

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Are you running Zooma in 2016? Florida run?

Ran Zooma before? Share your experience! Although I am an ambassador for 2016, this will be my first Zooma race!!!

Run did not go as hope for, but an overall GREAT 5K for other reasons......

Hope everyone is having a HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!!!! Today, there was a local 5K in honor of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to our country!!!! No way was I going to miss this 5K!!! It was a pretty good turn out too! :)

Yes, I had hope to PR.... or at east see a 24 on the time clock as I crossed...... NO! That did not happen today! But, oddly enough, I actually feel good about the race in general. Unofficially, my time was around 25:15 today..... I took Female Master's category! This is because the runner before me (who is wicked fast and finished in like 22 something) took first female.... and, there were a few other female runners who are faster than me that were out of town this weekend... so, there you go, that is how I took the Master's category today :) LOL! And, for the newbies or non-runners following this blog.... the Master category if for those over the age of 40!!! Not that I am a Master at running itself!! HA! HA! HA! :D

I decided that with the heat and humidity, I would try running with music which is something that I do not normally do....... even selected out a new playlist as seen above..... honestly, I don't think that having music made much of a difference.... undecided to continue to run with music. In fact, the only song that I even remember playing was "Fancy." If I continue, I really need some wireless type ear buds!!! I am open to suggestions on brands!!! 

RACE BREAKDOWN: 5K at an unofficial 25:15

By my Garmin- unofficial time was 25:15 (I turned my watch off at the end of shoot-I think-so this is pretty close to official time)

**MILE WARM UP- 11:00 pace... then onto the race

Mile 1- 7:54 ( I really felt good. My legs felt good and my breathing was pretty good. Bottom line, I met my goal and followed the instruction of the coach that designs my plans to stay controlled..... BIG, I mean HUGE progress!!! I usually fly out of the starting line and go incredibly too fast at the start)

Mile 2- 8:23 ( I still felt good, but hot! I walked at the water station and took 2 cups-- one to pour on my head and neck and the other to sip)

Mile 3- 8:35 ( I did keep the slower pace from mile 2 until 2.5 mile mark and then tried to speed up. However, I think that there just wasn't enough speed left in me to make this mile a negative split...Coming in the last quarter mile was tough and tried hard to push, but honestly, I just couldn't) 

Cool down was SUPPOSED to be a 1 mile easy pace..... didn't happen... why? Well, I socialized too much after the race and totally forgot!!!! I remembered when I was driving home..... oops! 

Here is my friend Arlene, then me, and then my friend Lisa...... it is tradition that we always take a pre-race photo......

When Arlene says she puts blood, sweat, and tears into running, SHE MEANS IT!!!!!!! OUCH!!!!! But, she is truly a bada$$!!! She got right back up and kept on!!!!!! Below is a close up!!!!! Seriously, that is a running battle wound for sure!!!!

Below are two of my friends and co-workers..... These ladies ROCKED this 5K!!!! Did I mention that the humidity was 91% at the start of the race?!?!?!!!!!!!!! It was a HOT one today! 

Below, are dear friends of mine..... this family treats me as one of their own!!! Always encouraging and supportive!!! They truly are the nicest people I know!!!! And, that is not exaggerating!!!! Lina, on the left when looking at the picture even drove all the way to Albany, GA in March to see me cross the finish line of my first ever marathon!!! How awesome is that?!?! The 2 fellas in this picture did not let the humidity slow them down..... not sure how they did it..... the heat turns me into a wimp!! LOL! 

Gotta run....... UNTIL LATER!!!! 

HOPE EVERYONE HAD A GREAT HOLIDAY!!!

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Race today? Hot and humid in your neck of the woods?

Ever have a race that you didn't PR or do as well as you hoped, but still have GREAT about it?!? Do tell.....

EAR BUDS?!? Wireless? Suggestions needed!!!!!!!!!

Globetrotting fun and Switching up long run due to Race 5K Monday!

Normally, Sunday would be a LONG RUN day, however, my training scheduled was switched up a bit with 8 miles scheduled on Saturday and 3 miles on Sunday......... all because, Monday is a race 5K Memorial Day run!!!!! Really hoping to perform and possibly make a PR. 

I jumped in the car in the dark morning hours of Saturday in order to join a couple of other runners in order to knock out 8 miles.... Man, I turn on the XM radio and "Double Dutch Bus" song came on..... I haven't heard this in ages!!!!!!!!! Such a fun song!!!!! For some reason, it made me think back to days when I was in elementary school, and I would Double Dutch jump rope with the kids in the neighborhood! Good ole days! 

I had completed the 8 miles before sunrise..... I was literally walking the track as the sun came up.... snapped this picture below as I completed my 1 mile post run walk........ Looked like it was going to be a beautiful day.... a hot day, but beautiful day for outdoor activities! 

Back to Monday and being hopeful for a possible PR.......  Training went well this week. I feel good and strong. I am trying to have a mind set that I CAN and WILL be able to see 24 on the time clock as I cross the finish line........ Below is a running motivation quote that I found on Pinterest.............. And, it is so true for me!!!

For some unknown reason, I have been in a slump of mental struggle.... I am not sure exactly what happened after the Marathon in March, but it has been tough to get back to my pre-marathon positive and confident mind set about running. When running, my mind is constantly thinking..... am I running too fast, am I staying in an aerobic state, is my heart rate where I need it to be, is my breathing too hard for a "steady run", am I pushing too fast, am I being unrealistic about running goals, why is my right hamstring tight, etc... seriously, it is an overwhelming mental battle in my head..... In reality,  my running has improve greatly from when I started at the age of 40.... and, I have been mentally strong until after meeting my goals of finishing a half marathon in under 2 hours and then completing a full marathon...  Crazy? right? This is what got me thinking, what is so different now?

NEED RUNNING GOALS>>>>>>>

That is it!!!! Just like in life..... if you have a goal, you constantly stay motivated....... and in running, the same hold true! No matter how little the goal is, YOU HAVE TO HAVE  A GOAL!!!!! It really helps to keep you disciplined and motivated! So, for the short term, I have set a goal to obtaining a PR in a 5k since there are always local 5ks scheduled...... affordable and no travel needed! My fastest 5K is 24:21.... so that is the goal.... also, to stay mentally strong, there is a 2nd goal which is..... even if I don't PR, I have a goal to at least see a 24 on the time clock when crossing the finish line. Yes, 2 mini goals, but goals that are helping me get my positive mind set back. Without a goal, I have no focus or motivation during my runs....... yes, I think having these goals are going to help! I already feel stronger... mentally, that is! 

FUN WITH GLOBETROTTERS!

My son lives and breathes basketball..... and, ever since I introduced him to the Globetrotters on youtube, he longs to be a Globetrotter when he grows up!!!! So, when it was announced that the Globetrotters were coming to Valdosta, GA to Wild adventures.... I knew we had to make sure not to miss the show!!!! 

I got in the picture too!!! LOL!!! Glad that I was at least smiling! This particular Globetrotter pulled me up on stage too!!! EEEK! I have no video or picture, but I will tell you that it only took me 3 attempts to make a basket!! :) 

Here is a video that I downloaded to YouTube from the show...... It really was a GREAT show! 

The above Globetrotter was gracious enough to stay a few minutes over to signed a few more items.... the signing period was very short and some what disorganized... there were some disappointed fans... but luckily, there were more shows throughout the day... so maybe they were able to come back and get items signed. My son was over the moon with seeing the Globetrotters in person!!!

After the show, the boys hit up a few more rides..........

Well, I need to get back to house work.... so wish a cleaning fairy would show up at my house!!! Hope everyone is having a great weekend!!!!

UNTIL LATER!!!!

What are you up to this weekend? Racing? Grilling?

Do running goals keep you going? What are your current goals? 

Ladies! Grab your friends and mark your calendars for ZOOMA FLORIDA

SAVE 10% with PROMO code: POLLYANNA16 on ANY ZOOMA run in 2016... FLORIDA, ANNAPOLIS, or CAPE COD

HEY LADIES!!! Don't miss out on this year's Zooma Florida event!!! There is a 5K, 12K, and a Half Marathon!!!!! And, the best part, since I am a Zooma Ambassador for 2016, you can receive 10% off with PROMO CODE: POLLYANNA16

Don't delay! Race is capped!!!! Come run with me and meet from inspiring ladies!!!!

Running + Beach + Hanging out with fellow Inspirational women= Fun Girl's Weekend!

Who doesn't like the sunshine, sand between their toes, massages, shopping, wine, relaxation, running, yoga, and hanging out with inspirational women from all over!!!!! Seriously, grab your girlfriends and wait NO LONGER!!!! Race caps out at 1,500!!! And, YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS OUT!!!!!!! Check out Zooma Florida website for more information

ALSO, DON'T FORGET TO USE THE CODE POLLYANNA16 if you register now!!!!! This code will take 10% off your race registration!!!!! The code will not be good forever..... so, early registration is recommended!!! Plus, prices will increase as race day approaches........

Seriously, with looking at the pictures above, wouldn't you love a weekend with your girlfriends in paradise!!! Leave reality for a weekend and enjoy a "Girl's Weekend Away!" Just think of the memories?!?  Life is to be ENJOYED and SHARED!!!!! :D

Ok, if you are not convince by those beautiful pictures,  let me list more reasons why YOU want to sign up for Zooma Florida Oct 2016!!!!!

**Zooma Florida is a scenic, professionally-managed, and timed half marathon, 12K, or 5K race (choose which distance you like- the code POLLYANNA 16 works for ALL races)

**Access to full fit girls weekend schedule- a fitness Expo and an After-Party Expo featuring wine from Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, post race massages, shopping, and music!

**Water and Sports electrolyte drink stationed along the course and at the finish line

** FOOD at the finish line

**ZOOMA medals for all finishers (the 2016 medal has not been release yet, but I will be sure to share as soon as it has!!)

**Access to special room rates at the official race hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island!!

So, DON'T DELAY! SIGN UP NOW AT THE ZOOMA FLORIDA WEBPAGE!!!

Don't forget Promo code POLLYANNA16 to save 10%!!!!

COME RUN ZOOMA WITH ME!!! IT IS GOING TO BE AN AMAZING WEEKEND!!!!!!!

Gotta run! UNTIL LATER!!!!!

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**Are you running Zooma with me?!?! Let me know! 

**Ever ran a Zooma race? Want to run the Florida race! Sign up today!