Sunday=Long run day...... will the days ever get less humid?

Humidity - Not a friend of a Runner

UGH.....the heat and humidity continue in South Georgia!!! 96% at 6am this morning when our group started our long run....... Seriously, i PROMISE to NEVER complain about cooler/cold weather again!! PROMISE!!!! This humidity is ridiculous!!!!!!!

Around mile 9.5 I snapped this selfie...... little blurry since I didn't stop running... HA!:D

We had a pretty great running group this morning..... this is after a 10 mile loop! We were all spent!!! The humidity left us all hot and sweaty!!! Probably should have taken a picture prior to us actually running...LOL! Maybe next time.....

Run Break down

I started with a mile warm up at a 11:26 pace.... had to get the legs moving!!! At 5:45am, my legs just are not awake!!! Have to get them going!!!!! 

Anyway, my warm up mile was followed by 10mile run at an average 10:31 pace and the break down is as follows: 

Mile 1- 10:51

Mile 2- 10:38

Mile 3- 10:43

Mile 4- 10:26

Mile 5- 10:40

Mile 6- 10:21

Mile 7- 10:44

Mile 8- 10:06

Mile 9- 10:28

Mile 10- 10:03

I was cooling down at the track..... I always walk at least a mile or longer after my long run... seems to make legs from becoming so tight later...... and, I had a great surprise of running into my friend Hala!!!! This lady is always uplifting... has the kindest heart! In our busy lives, we don't always get to see friends as much as we would like....so, moments like these are AWESOME! 

It was over a good week....... this was my first week back after being sick and taking a week off from running. I cut all my runs this week by 2 miles. Honestly, I just didn't want to exhaust myself. Will try to jump back on track with my training plan. 

I have a half marathon coming up at the end of October. I have been  debating back and forth about exactly how to run this half marathon. Do I run and do the best I can? Or, should I simply enjoy the experience, take pics along the course, and maybe even a video?...... decisions! I am running the Zooma Florida race which takes place at the beach!!!! It is catered to women..... Honestly, I think I really just want to "take it all in"....... plus, I was lucky enough to be a Zooma Ambassador this year and would love to document the race afterwards on my blog... that would mean needing to stop and take pictures/video along the course. I am really leaning toward this.... I think it would be neat to be able to go back and just document the entire experience! Also, I believe that it will be hot anyway.... and I don't run great in the heat anyway. Besides, as far as a PR for a Half, I really have my heart set on trying that in February at the Tallahassee Half marathon where I pr'd last year with a time of 1:56:42...... so why push this time? 

Speaking of Zooma- Come Run with ME!!!

Ladies, if you haven't grabbed your friends and signed up for Zooma Florida....... DO NOW!!!! The race is capped!!! Andddddddd, you can save 10% with the PROMO CODE: POLLYANNA16

Sun, beach, wine, massages, being around inspiring women, yoga, shopping, and much more...... don't miss out!!!!!! 

Happy Sunday Folks! Hope you have a great rest of the day!!!! UNTIL LATER......

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Still humid in your neck of the woods? 

Ever ran a race for fun? just soak in the experience

10k fun, Visor falling off, talking tangents--smart? cheating?

Never know who you might see

So, I found out of a 10K that was taking place in an outside town named Moultrie, Georgia which is only about 20 min from my house!!!! I had 7 miles on the training schedule today; therefore, this was a no brainer...... I had to run it!!!!!! Crazy thing is that I ran into 4 other people from Valdosta!!! How cool is that?!!!!!! Lisa is the selfie Master.... I am never able to take a selfie of a group like this without using a selfie stick! She rocks! 

Below is my friend/co-worker Arlene..... we were both pretty excited about the 10K.... most local runs are 5ks..... so, it was nice to have a different distance to run. 

Below is a guy named Joe... he has ran over a 1000 races.... I forget the exact total. He is in his 70s and smokes the local 5KS and such.... 

Crowd at the finish line..... probably should have taken the photo from the front which would have included  the finish clock in the picture ..... yes, amateur blogger mistake... I am still learning!! Next time I won't forget! LOL! 

We Placed in our age groups! 

Breakdown of the 10K

Ok, like I said, I had 7 miles on the training schedule. Therefore, I decided that I would run a 1 mile warm up and then the 10k (6.2miles). I debated whether to "race" it or "up tempo" it. I just completed running my first week after being sick. I didn't think it to be wise to full force push race this 10k. Therefore, up tempo run it was. Also, I decided that I would walk through water stations on the course in order to pour water on my head and to take a quick sip......and, there were like 4 water stops!!!!!! So, I did walk 4 different times through the water stops. 

Breakdown: 6.17miles (I am going to discuss tangents!!! On of my other friends at 6.2 at finish on her watch) total time 54:19 which equals 8:48 average pace

Mile 1- 8:16

Mile 2- 8:43

Mile 3- 9:08 (walked a water stop and my sun visor flew off--had to stop run back and get it! :)

Mile 4-8:45

Mile 5- 9:07

Mile 6- 8:56

Yes, you read that right!!!! My sun visor flew off in mile 3 and I had to stop, turn around, pick it off the ground, and place back on my head!!!! :D 

Seems to be a problem of mine..... hats flying off!!!! I think I have them too loose on my head, but I can't stand anything tight on my head.... if you guys have been following this blog, you remember my marathon when my hat flew off at the end....... below is the youtube video if you missed it!!! I might need to tighten my hats/visors up!!! LOL! :D

AMAZING FOUNTAIN

Have you ever seen a water fountain like the one below?!!!!!!! It has a Water bottle fountain that fills your water bottle up in a snap!!!!!! My friend Arlene and I were beyond excited and amazed.... seriously, is this not the best thing on the planet?!!!! I think local parks should have these!!! It would prevent a runner from having to "water drop." I LOVE THIS!!!!!! I WANT TO SEE MORE OF THESE!!!!!!! I think I will write the city of Valdosta!! 

Below is a closer look of the fountain.... Again, THIS IS THE BEST THING EVER!!!!!!!!! THESE SHOULD BE EVERY WHERE!!!!!! 

No FUN being sick!

Let me tell you..... I am so thankful and happy to be feeling better!!! Yes, I am finally back to feeling like myself! Man...... haven't been this sick in a while. This respiratory infection took me out for an entire week!!! I even had to leave work early one day and missed the entire next day of work!!! You know I am sick if I don't make it to work. Another sign that I am sick is that I don't run.... and even more convincing is that I don't even say I miss running....... Yes, if I am sick enough... running and everything else goes!!! Luckily, that doesn't happen all too often! 

I am pretty sure that that I went through at least 5 full boxes of tissue!!!! How the body can make so much snot......I just don't know!!! Ok, maybe that was TMI (too much information)....lol... 

I skipped Monday's run......but, Tuesday I was feeling well enough to climb up on the treadmill in the early morning hours prior to getting ready for work!!! Oh yes, I was back!!!! 4 miles on a treadmill never felt more AMAZING!!!!! Seriously, for an entire week there was NO running!!! No working out!! NADA!!!!! All due to a respiratory infection! I decided Tuesday on a slowwww and steady run and I cut back the 6 miles on training plan to 4 miles. I am thankful that I was able to fully recover and get better! It is a blessing to have your health!!! Life has a way of giving you a reality check and slowing you down...... times like acute illness instantly puts things in life into perspective.... you become more thankful for the many blessings that you  can take for granted.... and you are reminded that there are some things you need to stop stressing and worrying about...... 

But hey, one thing about not running for an entire week was that I was able to do things that normally take a back seat..... I was able to go through thousands of emails and sent messages........my email has never been so cleaned out! I was able to gather and complete paperwork that needs to be submitted for my national certification! This was a major WIN!!! And..... I was able to take care of all my notifications on all the apps on my phone!!!! My phone screen has never looked like this in years!! HA! HA! HA! It is the small things that bring such great delight!!!! So, being sick wasn't completely a waste of time!!!!  :):)

RUNNING TANGENTS

OKAY...... I want to talk TANGENTS!!!!!! When watching the Olympics the announcers were making such a HUGE deal of Shalane Flanagan running tangents!!! Honestly, I didn't even really know about running tangents on courses until this was made into such a big deal. The announcers were debating about whether it was ok to run tangents and that Shalane was not covering the same distance as the other runners...... oh yes, I had to research this!!! 

Below is a picture of running tangents.......

In the article "The Basics: Running Tangents" posted by a guy named Dave on the 'Science-Based Running' web page at www.sciencebasedrunning.com tangents are explained. (side note: that website link takes you to the site I found information-sorry, it does't take you to the exact article). Basically, as according to Dave, "Geometrically speaking, a "tangent" is a straight line that touches a curve but doesn't cross it." He goes on to say, "Running tangents is just a geeky way of saying 'running the shortest legal distance in a race'." 

I did this today!!! And, it worked!!! My total distance during the 10k was actually 6.17 when my friends watch read 6.2 when she finished!!!! So, I covered the course, but legally cut distance! Who knew?!!! How awesome is that?!!!! Cool, right?! yeah, yeah, I am showing my dorky/geeky math side..... but, It is a neat thing to know! I have ran courses before that I thought were missed marked because my gamin would be slightly under the distance for a 5K distance.... perhaps, I was running tangents then.....hmmmmm......

And NO!!! It is not cheating...... It is running SMART!! Race strategy on a course!!!! Shalane Flanagan showed her elite experience with running tangents while the pack ran all the corners.....SMART!!!

HEY LADIES-- Have you signed up for ZOOMA? 

I you haven't signed up for Zooma Florida, DON'T WAIT ANY LONGER!!!! Fun Girl's weekend! SAVE 10% with PROMO CODE: POLLYANNA16

GO to the Zooma web page to register!!!!!!!! 

Gotta run!! UNTIL LATER!!! Hope you are having a GREAT weekend!!!!!!!!! 

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Run Tangents? Do you consider this "cheating" or "smart"?

Did you run today? Do tell!!!.....

Rules you follow when sick? Run? Rest? Run if sick from neck up? Don't run if sick from neck down? 

Quirky things that happen on race day? I can't seem to keep a sun visor or hat on my head! LOL!

Over due blog post... let's talk gaining running mojo back, hurricanes, pumpkin, & College Football

WOW over 2 weeks since last Blog Post!!!

Holy cow, it has been since August 21st since my last blog posting!!! Sometimes, life has a way of getting a bit overwhelming.... not in a bad way, but just a number of things going on.... before you know it, a couple weeks have passed by!!!! With preparing for the start of the new school year, getting into a school routine, preparing and signing up for activities like cub scouts/soccer, working, keeping up training schedule, and then those everyday/every week activities like cleaning/grocery shopping, etc..... yes, life just takes over, and priorities must be arranged.... unfortunately, this blog took the back seat!!! 

The above picture was from the Labor Day local 5k!!!!! It was 73 degrees and 97% Humidity!!! WHERE THE HECK IS THE FALL WEATHER?!!!! LOL!!!! :D

Anyway, this picture was taken right after the 5K! Man, we were ALL SWEATY!!!!! I think after struggling ALL SUMMER LONG.... I have finally began to get accalmated to the South Georgia humidity. Last week I didn't feel the best... and managed to pull out a 25:07. I was thrilled! So, today, with feeling better this weekend, I was hoping ti be able to pull out a time that would have a 24 on the clock... I didn't care if it was 24:59!!! LOL!!!!! ANYWAY, I was beyond excited when I crossed at 24:47? 24:48?or 24:49? Official time has not been posted, but I know my time is in there somewhere!!! I even wrote on my card that I turned in a message to the race timer... I wrote the estimated time down and then wrote, "I don't freakin care about the seconds, there was a 24 on the clock :)" ...... I always leave a little message at the bottom of the card! LOL! Not sure if the race timer (who happens to be the coach that designs my training plans) reads all of them! TODAY, I hear that he actually read my message out LOUD to all the runners present during the awards ceremony.... HA! HA! I apparently snagged the female's master category.... I had to leave early due to meeting a friend/trainer that is helping me with my arm strength and core....... Honestly, the most awarding thing was seeing that 24 on the clock! That is what is GREAT about running.... meeting self goals!! Which makes you feel like a winner..... you don't have to be the first one across the line to feel like a ROCK star..... overcoming challenges, meeting goals, being better than you were in days prior... that is winning!!!!! Anyway, I will await official times..... they usually get posted within a day or two...... 

TURNING GOAL TIME INTO A FAMILY GAME

So, my family and I started to do this new thing prior to me running a 5k.....we created a game of guessing my estimated running time! My husband says that it really isn't fair because I can ultimately run as fast as I want, or as slow as I want which would allow me to get closer to the time  I estimate for myself......but, as I told him, this is to motivate me, so I am going to try to do my best..... Noooooo, not push until I puke kind of best.... but rather, run the best I can with a little push.... to work for my time! LOL! :D 

So, last night at dinner, I wrote down our estimated times..... Don't you just LOVE that my son said 21:01?!!! LOL!!! So glad that he has so much faith in me.... HA! HA! :D 

Also, notice, my husband made sure to have a time that was only a minute from mine..... but sheesh, he could have at least guess a minute less than what I stated.... I mean, give me credit that I might be faster than what I estimated!!! LOL!!! But, it is all in good fun!!!

Below, here is a picture of my favorite cub scout..... we went to dinner prior to a pack meeting on Wednesday..... he is my most favorite dinner date!!!! And, a pretty entertaining dinner date too!! Gotta love the conversations with a 7 year old..... you NEVER know where the topics lead.........

GOTTA LOVE FALL

Ok, yeah, the weather here in South Georgia isn't exactly "fall" like, but by the calendar, fall has arrived!!! Annndddd, that means.... EVERYTHING PUMPKIN!!!!!! Oh yeah!!! Time to sit down with Pinterest and get recipe ideas for pumpkin..... I already started the fall baking extravaganza of making everything with pumpkin with a Pumpkin pie..... and, it was just as delicious as anticipated!!!!!!! I am usually the only one who goes crazy over the pumpkin stuff and ends up eating everything by myself....but, that in NO WAY stops me from baking pumpkin creations!!!! My heart warmed when my son requested a piece of the Pumpkin pie!!!

Hurricane Hermine

Yes, hurricane Hermine reared it's ugly head here in South Georgia. My family was very blessed and only suffered down trees....yes, there is a bit of a mess to clean up, but nothing more that making us do a little physical labor. There were many in the local areas that went hours and days without electricity!!!! And, many had damage to their homes!!!!!!! 

Below, a house had a pine tree go right through the roof and window of an upstairs window. From my understanding, no one was home. But, man, the damage is extensive :(

TIME FOR A CAR WASH

A sign that you may need to get your car washed..... someone writes in the dirt on the back window! At least, instead of writing "wash me," the person wrote a motivating statement...."You rock runner girl!!" LOL!!!! I am not sure how long this has been there.... I just noticed when I went to Target and was loading my things into the back of my tahoe..... HA!HA!! I might have been riding around with this on my car for the last week or so!!! LOL! :D

College Football..... oh YES!!!

Annnnddddd, one of the MOST AWESOME things about fall is the start of college football!!!!!!!!! Ahhhhhhhhhhh, yes, the best time of the year.  GO VSU BLAZERS AND Gooooooooooo GATORS!!!!!!! :)

I attended undergrad at VSU and graduate school at the University of Florida!! I support both of these schools!!!

Well, I need to start getting things prepared for the upcoming week!!!! Hope everyone had a safe and fun Labor Day!!!!! UNTIL LATER!!!!!!

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What is your FAVORITE thing about Fall?

Love Pumpkin? Have a great recipe to share? PLEASE DO!!!! :) 

Rooting for a particular College football team? Or, not really into college football? 

Sunday=Long Run finally feeling good!

THINGS FALLING IN PLACE

Sunday=Long run!!! I set out at 5am to meet the morning running group..... 13 miles were on my training plan. At the beginning of summer, I hit a rough patch! Seriously, running became such an effort for me, and I couldn't figure out what was up. South Georgia heat? Humidity? My mental state? I hadn't a clue! All I knew was that I was becoming a bit discouraged about things related to running.... I knew that my running/training had to be re-evaluated!! I communicated my feelings to the coach that designs my training plans, and he was soooooooo encouraging! Decision was made to slow down my runs during the week. Anddddddd, I must say, the last couple weeks, I have felt the difference. Running was becoming less of an effort! I was starting to feel more positive. And, today, with having 13 miles on schedule, I knew today would either confirm my progress of getting back to my baseline, or I would know more work was to be done! I am sooooooooooo happy to say that I had a GREAT run! Felt good!!!!! Mentally, I needed today's run! Yes, I think I am getting back on track! No, I probably won't be seeing any PRs in my upcoming half marathon at the end of October, but, I am just happy that running is no longer an effort and actually enjoyable once again! 

During times when you feel like you have fell backwards as far as running goes, it is so VERY important to run with your heart. The mind gets weak in times like this! The mind tells you to quit or says "what's the point?" But, if you have running in your heart, you keep looking forward and continue on with training. Even if training means a BUNCH of disappointing runs!!! NO, I am not saying to push through injuries or when you are beyond fatigue. However, I am saying that when the mind gets weak, you must get out there and run! Stay with the program even if the performance you are use to or what you expect isn't there! YOU Must, "keep on keeping on!" 

Break Down of today's Run

13.1 miles (Yes, only 13 were on schedule.... but, when you are a runner and you know that 13.1 is a half marathon distance, you can't help but run the additional 0.1 miles.... right?!!! Anyway, the breakdown of today's long run is as follows: 

13.1 miles at an average of 10:08 pace

Mile 1- 10:27

Mile 2- 10:07

Mile 3- 10:09

Mile 4- 9:53

Mile 5- 10:07

Mile 6- 9:44

Mile 7- 10:11

Mile 8- 10:34

Mile 9- 10:17

Mile 10- 9:46

Mile 11- 10:11

Mile 12- 10:17

Mile 13- 9:58

and then the added 0.10 to =half marathon distance :):)

We had a pretty big running group this morning, however, I don't ever seem to get a begging picture when everyone is there...... we all have different distances at times, therefore, we don;t end up all finishing at the same time. My friend Brandy (below) and I had 12 and 13 miles on our plan today. We pretty much stuck together, battling the heat and humidity, and got it done! Here we are looking like we took a shower! LOL! :D

Team USA

Did you catch the Men's Olympic Marathon today?!!!! Galen Rupp did a fabulous job and ran a GREAT race! I have to say I was a bit surprised at how well he did today! I really wasn't banking on him.......but, I have to say, he made America proud! All the athletes dud today, but Rupp was a bit of a surprise for me............. CONGRATULATIONS RUPP!!! 

Another WINNER Announced!! :)

Congratulations ANITA BURTON!!!! She is the winner of the Zooma Free Entry give-a-way !!!!! I announced yesterday on instagram and Facebook, but wanted to announce here for those who only email subscribe to my blog. 

Rest of the day spent enjoying the Olympics and being some what lazy...... sometimes, lazy days are the best! :)

Hope you had a GREAT day!!!! A pile of Laundry with my name on it is waiting for me..... UNTIL later!!!!! 

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What did you think about the Men's Olympic Marathon? Surprised by Rupp? 

Did you run today? Long run? Race? 

Ever get in a bit of a mental slump with running? Did you take a break from running or simply press on an evaluate your training? 

Wanting a Divorce, but there are too many reasons NOT too!

Oh the Reasons not to call it QUITS!

Yes, at times, I want a the big "D" as in DIVORCE...... from my treadmill that is!!!!! ****SIGH***** There are days that I simply DO NOT want to run on Mr. Dreadmill!!!!!! But, as with any relationship, you have to take the bad with the good.........

Running is the wedding ring that bounds me to my treadmill. Yes, my desire to run keeps my heart with my treadmill. My treadmill is always there for me..... when it is too dark to run, the weather too fierce to run, no one to meet to run, etc....there is my faithful & committed treadmill to make sure that my runs for the week get done! 

Routine-running in place=BORED! Yes, as with most relationships, routine can cause things to appear boring and all excitement lost.......therefore, I have decided that it is a MUST to SPICE some things up!!!! This can be done by watching TV, youtube, listening to music, listening to pod casts, listening to audio books... or, vary up the runs by adding incline or adjusting speed during the run! Yes, you have to make an effort not to lose interest and work on making things interesting again! 

Supportive .... the basis of a relationship! And, that is what my treadmill is!!!! I mean, with the support and availability of my treadmill, I have have been able to meet my goals that I set for myself. With being a wife, mother, and working full time.... training runs would have been missed all too often which would have led to me not being able to reach goals of a sub 2 half marathon and completing a full marathon! 

Builds strength-- mental strength that is!!! Any relationship should provide you strength and make you stronger in all aspects in life. The treadmill particularly helps me in the one area that I am weak... mentally!!! Any runner knows that the body can accomplish amazing things!!!!! But, sometimes, the mind can limit you from allowing your body to push...... well, let me tell you!! Running in one place for 45-60min will definitely make you become mentally stronger to not quit! 

So, the bottom line....... there are too many reasons NOT to DIVORCE my treadmill......I see many miles in the future for me and Mr. Dreadmill! And, it is a good thing!!!! When it comes down to it, I really do love my treadmill !!!!!  And, as the picture below shows, I completed my week day work outs..... andddddddd, all because of Mr. Dreadmill!!!!! :D

Let's Talk Food!

When it comes down to it, I LOVE to run because I LOVE food too much!!!!! I am always looking on Pinterest for food ideas and I love when others share food ideas! 

Below is a great on the go breakfast idea..... greek yogurt, chopped walnuts, blueberries, and strawberries ........ this is SUPER YUMMY!!!! Quick and easy to take in the car, if you are like me, and sometimes are rushed in the morning! 

Below, is the house salad from Atlanta Bread Company with added Salmon and Avocado...... made them hold the croutons! This is delicious!!!

Random info..... update on Tahoe

For those that have been following my ever increasing mileage on my tahoe, I just reached 430,000 miles today!!!!!!! Seriously, I think this vehicle might last forever!!!!!

Well, gotta run...... hope you have had a GREAT week!!!! Tomorrow is FRIDAY!!!! Hang in there!!!!! UNTIL LATER!! Thank you to all that follow this blog......... 

*************TOMORROW I WILL ANNOUNCE WINNER FOR THE FREE ENTRY TO ZOOMA!!!!!!*************** stay tuned

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Treadmill- are you like me and feel advantages out weight disadvantages when thinking that you just want to throw the treadmill out! 

Food ideas? I know if you run, you have the same love for food as I do! Please share food ideas....

Ever reached crazy mileage on a vehicle without making major repairs? 

SUNDAY Long Run

LONG RUN DAY

Sunday always equals Long Run day...... I had 11 miles scheduled on the books; however, I ran 10 miles and walked one additional mile. So, I did make 11 miles on my feet, but only 10 miles were running. Our running group has a 10 miles loop, and today, I just was't going to add an additional mile. 

Overall, the run was pretty good. I really think I am adjusting some to this heat and humidity. By NO MEANS am I starting to LIKE it!!! Or, that it is NOT an effort for me. Oh, it is tough, but still better than turning to the dreadmill! LOL! :D

Luckily, I had 2 other friends that got up before sun rise in order to join me. Frank and Rhonda definitely made the miles a great deal easier this morning!!!! If you are going to battle the hot humid summer weather of Georgia, it is much easier with other running peeps. As the saying goes, "misery LOVES company." HA! HA!!! 

LONG RUN BREAK DOWN

10 Miles at an average 10:16 pace

1 mile- 10:43

2 mile- 10:19

3 mile- 10:06

4 mile- 10:12

5 mile- 10:17

6 mile- 10:15

7 mile- 10:19

8 mile- 10:28

9 mile- 10:21

10 mile- 9:43 (seems we were eager to get the run done! LOL! Goal is to stay between a 10:10-10:40 pace for long runs..... oops....)

Lots of us run to clear our heads and receive stress...... running creates a balance in life. But, I think the saying below I found on Pinterest seems more true for me..... yes, I need professional help! HA! HA! :D

*Photo credit to ZOOMA Women's Race Series

DON'T FORGET!!! I AM GIVING AWAY A FREE RACE ENTRY TO A ZOOMA 2016 RUN...... SERIOUSLY, if you are thinking about it, look below on how to enter!!! Right now, I literally have only 3 people entered!! Odds are great to win this!!! Will draw this Thursday!!!

****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?!?!!!!!!!

Gotta run!!! Preparation for the upcoming week has started!!!! UNTIL LATER!!!!

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Sunday- how did you spend it today? Get a run in? Watched the Olympics? 

Fellow running peeps keep you motivated and acceptable? Or are you more of a solo runner?

Upcoming runs scheduled? Do share! 

My Steps to get running...... & a Saturday Winnersville 5K

Vikings & Wild Cats

If you are local, you know that the 2 rival football teams are the Lowndes High School Vikings and the Valdosta High School Wild Cats!!!!! Today, the two teams came together for a 5k in all support of the 2 schools! It was a fun event!!!! 

Below, are some of my fellow running peeps that were about as crazy as I was to show up for a 8am start in this HIT & HUMID South Georgia weather!!!! UGH! It had to be the most humid day ever! 

Before the start of the 5K, we were all smiles!!!!! Smiling was a bit more difficult after running in 94% humidity.... so, good thing we remembered to take a photo prior!!! 

You know it is a HUGE event if the Chick-fli-A cow shows up!!! :D

Cheerleaders for both teams were there rooting everyone on to the finish!!!! 

There was JAMMIN' music at the event..... my friend, LISA, made a cameo in the video below! LOL! 

I actually was able to run the 5k in 26:31. This is my best time for the summer! I have struggled all summer. Not sure if just heat and humidity related, or if I have been in a funk! Either way, I keep pressing forward and running at "my time" in hopes that by cooler temps, everything will come together! Hard to stay positive when you constantly feel defeated, but you just have to move forward no matter what!!!!

How to start running

I am constantly asked how in the world did I start to run. As some of you know, I am 44 years of age, and started to run at age 40. I wanted to get active and lose some baby weight. Seriously, I am NO expert, but I thought I would share what I think helped me get started. 

1- I SIFGNED UP FOR A 5K that was 8 weeks out from me starting to run! Seriously, this is the VERY FIRST thing I did! Crazy, right? I mean, I had no plan...... nope! Had no idea how I was going to prepare for such an event. I mean, in my head I thought, it is running... our bodies are made to move. Well, believe me, I thought to my self "What the heck were you thinking" when on my first run, I ran 0.8 miles and could not go another step!!!! Andddddddd, not to mention that my pace was not much faster than me actually walking! I felt as if I was doomed! I was under the impression that at the 5K events you HAD to run! I am not sure if I thought I might get disqualified or something if I walked. I was like, ok, I might need to train and get a plan. I wasn't sure how I was going to make a plan, but I KNEW I needed a "game plan." (on a side note, I walked twice during my 5K.... heck, I have been known to walk lately on these recent summer humid runs-- nothing wrong with that! )

2- Find a 5k training plan for your activity level. Yeah, probably having a plan should have been my first step in planning to run a 5k.... oh well, at least being already signed up provided motivation for me to get off my tush and do something! And fast for that matter! Anyway, I have a trusted friend who has been running much longer than me.... I knew she wouldn't make me feel intimidated and would be all but encouraging..... so, I turned to her. Unfortunately, she lives no where close to me, but through email communication, she recommended following a Hal Higdon plan. And, that is exactly what I did! I followed the Hal Higdon novice 5k plan!  He has plans for 5k, half marathon, and full marathon distances! This is not the only plan out there and I would advise searching for a plan that is right for you. Couch to 5k is one and there are many others! Having a training plan will prevent you from doing what many novice runners do..... that is OVER TRAIN! I wanted to run every day! I ended up with aches and pains. I mean, yeah, you will hurt, but over training leads to injury! I ended up at the ORTHO office due to knee pain. Luckily, he prescribed strengthening exercises for the muscles that support the knee.... he said, my knee was fine, but that I needed to strengthening the muscle to support the knee and to NOT OVER TRAIN! 

3- MAKE TIME TO GET RUNS IN- Seriously, the amount of time that it takes to run can be squeezed into any busy schedule. I get up at 3:30-3:45am to get my runs in.... I know for me, I am a morning runner. Plus, I know that way, NOTHING will get in the way because I will be done before the day starts! We all know... when we want something REALLY BAD, we find the time! Love yourself enough to make that time to be healthy and get active! SCHEDULE your runs like you would a doctor's appt, hair appt, etc. Yes, life happens.... we get sick, family members get sick..... and a run here and there will be missed, that is OK! But, the point is, schedule the run and most likely, you will get it done! 

4- BE CONSISTENT! This is the MOST IMPORTANT thing you can do... consistency is the key to improving and making progress! Just because you might not be noticing improvement..... trust me, with every run, you are getting stronger as a runner!  Inconsistency only leads to a zig zag path and this causes frustration because you will never feel like you are getting ahead! 

5-Eat well, but don't over eat! For a 5K or any distance under 1 hour, you really don't need anything to eat. If you must, a banana or toast with peanut butter works..... but, honestly, your body has enough stores to run a 5k in the morning. When I first started, I fueled up for a 5k like one would for a full marathon .....LOL! But, seriously, the information you read out there gets confusing and I was afraid of bonking on the course! Hey, 5k distance seemed like a full marathon distance when I first started to run! I didn't lose one pound of weight when I first started to run..... for the first year.... ZERO pounds lost! I was like, dang, I thought running burned a bunch of calories! Well, running 3 miles doesn't justify eating like Olympian Michael Phelps!!! HA! HA! Once, I started to eat right and adjust caloric needs, I did in fact slim down. I started to clean up my diet (although I admit that I still don;t eat as clean as I would like--but I eat way better) .... clean diet allows to eat more food too!!! And, I LOVE FOOD!!!!!

6-HYDRATE! Lots of water! Throughout your day....everyday! Prior to running be well hydrated!!! How can you tell if you are well hydrated prior to running you ask?!??? Take the pee test.... your urine color should be pale yellow! It is that easy! :)

7- ANDDDDDDDD MOST IMPROTANT!!!!!! STAY POSITIVE AND DON'T GIVE UP!!!!!! You can do it! Mind set is everything! In the first year that I started to run, I did in fact run that 5k that I signed up for, and went on to run a half marathon! 3 1/2 years later, I ran my first ever FULL MARATHON! If I can do this at my age, you too can! 

GOTTA RUN!!!!!!! UNTIL LATER... If you have friends desiring to run, share this post. And, as always, thanks for your support of my little side hobby of writing a blog. 

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** how did you get started running? Suggestions for newbies?

**Did you run a race today? Or did you have a training run?

**Does your community have a lot of local running events? Here in Valdosta, GA, there is an event almost every weekend! Always a great way to start off a Saturday morning and give back to community at the same time! 

WIN A FREE ENTRY TO EITHER ZOOMA 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.

Share

Enter to WIN a FREE race ENTRY for either Zooma 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.

Share

Beating the Humidity....Best deal EVER, and Hot Sweaty Mess

Holy Moly, I took on the humidity yesterday for my Sunday Long run.... and, I was not defeated like last week when I had to throw in the towel after 7 miles!!! YAY!!!! If I hadn't been so tired, I would have taken one of those jump in the air photos! LOL!!!! But, above, is all that I could mustard!!!

None-the-less, I was able to crank out 12.01 (oh yes, I will simply not round down to 12 miles.... for goodness sake, I ran 12.01!!!! IN THIS SOUTH GEORGIA HEAT & HUMIDITY--HA!HA!) at a 10:12 average pace!!! Actually, I ran better than I had thought! I was happy to have one more HOT & HUMID South Georgia run behind me!!!!! Woooohoooooooo!!!!!!!!

After my long run, I proceeded with my usual Sunday morning ritual of heading to the grocery store..... Seriously, around 7-7:30 am is the BEST time to go to PUBLIX!!! The store is deserted!!!! LOL!!! Well, there were a couple of other people shopping as well.... and, sometimes, I run into people I know.....ugh.... and, you know after running, I look like a TOTAL SWEATY HOT MESS!!!! Andddddddd, not to mention that I TOTALLY STINK!!!!!! Let me tell you, I do not smell like fresh sweet roses!! NOPE!!!! why do I mention this? Well, of course I ran into one of the physicians from my work place.... LUCKILY, I was in my car driving through the parking lot leaving when I saw him.... he too saw me, so I did roll down window and wave while saying "hello"....... but whew, close call!!! At least he couldn't see what a total mess I looked like or smell me!! HA!HA!HA! Runner problems, right?!?!? :D

YES!!! You are so seeing the BEST DEAL EVER at publix!!!!! Oh yes, your eyes are NOT deceiving you!!!! The peanut butter was BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE!!!!!! I am not kidding you!!!!! If someone had been standing around me, I would have so asked them to pinch me.... I mean, I really thought I was dreaming!!!! Better believe I scooped up some of these!!! LOL! And, if you hadn't known about this fabulous deal, and are heading out to take advantage, you are welcome!!! :)

Monday morning(today), I headed to spin class.... I tell you, I am not sure if it is me or what.... but, I have been to 3 different spin classes recently (one at 5am, 6am, and today 8:30am) anddddddd not another spinner at the beginning of class!!! I am not the most confident spinner, and I so hate when I feel like the instructor's eyes are all on me. With Each class, at least 1 or 2 people  eventually joined, but man.... I hate being the only one in there! Anyway, it is a good work out and definitely helps on cross training days! 

This is just a random picture from last night...... these are my 2 favorite guys... we ate at the Texas Roadhouse which is the family favorite restaurant!!! Gotta love a restaurant with GREAT sweet potatoes, am I right?!!! Kinda like a grocery store with peanut butter, buy one-get one free.....LOL!!! Yes, I am still not over that I actually got peanut butter on a BOGO deal!!! :D

Well, hopefully your training has started off on a good foot this week. Hope those with upcoming races are surviving taper mode! I am just going to try to stay on track with this week's training. So far, I feel pretty good.... hopefully, I make all the early morning work outs! Take care........ more soon! UNTIL LATER..........

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HAVE YOU FOUND ANY FABULOUS DEALS that only a runner would appreciate? Do tell... I may need to check it out!!!

What are you doing for cross training?

Any races coming up? Pls share.....

ENTER for a FREE race entry to ZOOMA 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.

Share

4 mile run, spinning, making the best muffins EVER......

Happy Saturday folks!!! It continues to be sizzling HOT & HUMID here in south Georgia!!!! Today, I had 8 miles on the books........ ugh..... All week, I was thinking about how I was going to get get those 8 miles in...... I so hate to run the treadmill since during the week the treadmill is the only way to get runs in!!! Well, there just happened to be a local 4 mile run 15 min from my house! Score!!! The coach that designed my training plan suggested a 2 mile warm up+ 4mile race/run +2 mile cool down.....8 miles total! 2 reasons made this the best idea: #1- close proximity to my house, and #2- I could get my miles in with fellow runners with a couple of them being some of my fabulous running friends! No brainer, right?!?!!! It was a small race with beautiful scenery. I snagged 1st in age group. I actually ran my best time for the summer..... the coach says that I just might be one of those that require a longer warm up prior to racing....at least 1.5-2miles in order to "cool my jets" and prevent me from going out way to fast! For some reason, I become a bundle of nerves prior to starting a 5k.... not sure why, but it never fails, I go out way too fast!!

My friend Lisa and I pictured above just prior to the 4 mile run.

Pictured above are my friends Lisa and Arlene! These chicks keep me laughing! IT was good to suffer the hot humid temps this morning with them! LOL! Misery LOVES company, right?!?!!!!

Above and below were parts of the course...... the run took place in Quitman, Georgia. A small beautiful little town. It was over cast and there might have been a slight breeze....but still, humid! 

I think adding in spin has helped a bit with my legs!!!! I tell you what, spin class really is a work out!!!! I really like it although it kicks my BOO-TAY!!!! LOL!

This past Monday morning, I was surprised that the instructor was the music teacher from my son's school, Mrs. Julie Savoie!! She is an AMAZINGGGGG SPIN instructor!! Gave my legs a REAL work out!!! She teaches the 5am class during the week..... sure wish I could attend her class, but with school starting, I won't be able to.... will have to go to a later class......  

Below is the absolute truth here in Georgia as well...... seriously, I can ring my clothes out after running. LOL! :D

On Thursday, my son started back to school........ hard to believe that he is now in 2nd grade! Crazy how fast kids grow up! Love that he wants to be a Ghostbuster! He has already put in to be a Ghostbuster for Halloween!!!! HA! HA! 

Below, my son is rolling my feet..... and, before you think, "how sweet is that?", I had to pay him a dollar in order to get this foot rub!!! HA! HA! HA! :D

Last weekend, I tried out making these Yogurt Raspberry muffins!! 

You TOO can make these awesomely delicious Raspberry Muffins by following this recipe that I found on Pinterest!! YUMMY! This was a hit with my son and hubby; however, my hubby has requested that next time I make them with blueberries :):)

Well, gotta get ready for bed..... 12 miles tomorrow in the HOT, HUMID South Georgia weather! Hopefully, I will make the entire distance and not have bail mid way like last week. We shall see. UNTIL LATER! 

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**Do you spin? Does it seem to help with your running? Leg turn over faster?

**Has school started in your neck of the woods?

**Any recipes you would like to share?

Fell off training plan.... and SUNDAY's run a WHOLE LOT of EFFORT & PUSH

his Humidity knocked me off my feet (literally)

I am sooooooooo OVER this South Georgia heat!!!!! Seriously, a mixture of fatigue, humidity, and tired legs set up for my scheduled 12 miles to turned into 7 miles.... and just barely 7 miles!!! The above picture is a little touch of dramatics....... see, I had said during my run to my fellow runners that I felt like just laying down on the ground. Sooooo, I just thought I would get a picture to represent what I was thinking and feeling....... I mean, I do write a blog an all!! LOL!!! I can write words in the blog, but pictures kinda bring the point all home! Right?! I made sure that there was not anyone around that I didn't know, I mean really, seeing a runner flat on his/her back on a side walk could cause someone to become worried and call 911 or something..... LOL!!!!! 

In all seriousness, the below picture was of me when I decided to throw in the towel and walk back to my car...... I was tired, flushed in the face, but by far not ready to pass out! I was well hydrated, but really fatigued and without any "get up and go." I definitely made the decision to call it a day, as far as running was concerned, well before it took a bad toll on my body! I really do try to run smart.... I am just not one to "kill" myself! You have to know when to push, and know when to "listen to your body" as my coach says! Today, I did just that! NO regrets, and only going to look forward! 

Sunday Long Run Attempt breakdown

Mile 1- 10:38

Mile 2- 10:36

Mile 3- 10:40

Mile 4- 10:15

Mile 5- 10:29

Mile 6- 10:05

******Actually stopped running, walked a half of a mile. Actually said at this point, that I was done. However, I then ran into the running group again along the course and gave it my best effort to try to run again******

Mile 7- 10:21 pace ****and, that was it!!! I was done!!! walked rest of way to my car

One thing about being a runner, you know where all the bathrooms are along your courses..... today, I was grateful for this bathroom break at the local university.... this is in the parking garage security building...... definitely cleaner than a port-a-potty! And, there is AIR CONDITION!!!! Oh YEAH!! Nice break in the humid run!!! There are a couple flights of stairs, but well worth the climb!!! :)

WEEK IN REVIEW

Monday started out GREAT! Tempo run done! Felt good! Kept on pace that was set for me.........

Tuesday- 6 mile steady run went well..... still feeling well! 

Wednesday- just could not get out of bed to get the 6 miles on schedule done! Skipped! 

Thursday - I went to a spin class. One thing new in my training is spin once a week or every other week depending if I do core and strengthening work.......... will need to talk about benefits of spinning in a future blog.....

Andddddddd, I was the ONLY one there!!! Yep, class was empty!!!! Just me and the instructor!!! LOL!!!! But, about 15 min into class, one other person came in to join!!!! Oh, did I mention it was a 5am class?!? That might have something to do with the turn out! LOL!!!

FRIDAY- Scheduled REST day!!!!! 

Saturday-- Skipped the 8 mile run and decided to sleep in a bit prior to heading to work.... had to work 9-4. I was expecting the day to be busy, but it turned out not so bad... kinda wish I had ran! Oh well!

And, Sunday...... well, you already know all about that from the beginning of this blog post! 

This week, my son had my mom pick up these flowers from Publix and bring them to me at the office where I work. He was so proud..... and, this definitely made my heart warm! He really is a sweet and thoughtful kid..... and thanks to my mom for helping him out. 

He even attached a tear out sheet from a mini-notebook so he could sign it...... Definitely brightened my day! 

Subscribe to receive latest blog posts directly to email..... it is easy, go to www.mytimerunner.com, and you will see this box...simply insert your email and then await a confirmation that will arrive shortly after for you to confirm! Thanks to all those that have already email subscribed! I appreciate it! You guys are the BEST!!!!

I will write more later..... but I see a nap in my near future! UNTIL LATER!!!!!!!! 

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Ever threw in the towel on a run? Please share... I think it is important for others to know that you will have a bad run or a disappointing run, but that you really shouldn't over think it! 

Do you spin? If yes, do you feel like it helps your running? 

raining for anything particular? My next race that I am trying to train for is the ZOOMA Half marathon in Florida! Don't forget about the FREE RACE ENTRY give-a-way. All you have to do is email subscribe as mentioned above in this post and email me at mytimerunner@yahoo.com to notify me that you want to be entered into the give-a-way! Like either my Facebook page My Time Runner Girl or follow on instagram @mytimerunner. That is it!!! No sharing the Facebook post or tagging friends (although I do appreciate the shout outs with sharing my Facebook posts) ......... :) 

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?