Blonde Mama Runs

Life Rules and Finding Happiness

2011-02-05T14:52:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have been thinking a lot about how to be happier. This notion seems to be a new phenomenon happening around us. There was a special on Oprah on how to be happier, where she interviewed the author Dan Buettner about his book Thrive: Finding Happiness the Blue Zones Way (check out the bluezones website, it offers cool facts and information on the happiest people and places in the world, plus allows you to take a happiness quiz which is quite accurate). I also have been frequenting Gretchen Rubin's website, The Happiness Project, for inspiration, resolutions, videos and more. I found this one on What did you do for fun when you were 10 years old? to be thought provoking. Many people can't figure out WHAT they want to do...for fun, for work, for a hobby. It seems like an easy question to answer, but adults have a difficult time thinking about and articulating what they want to do. So, Gretchen's question asks us to think about what we did as 10 year olds. Usually, it's something that we would like to do as adults as well, in a more reformed way.

Something else that people don't realize is that it's work to be happy. I think that people sit around waiting for something to come their way and make them happier. It doesn't work that way. When you wake up in the morning, you have to tell yourself, "I'm going to be happy today. I'll make today a good day". Without positive thinking, it's hard to just magically become happier. I think a lot of us think something drastic must happen to change our attitude, but it really depends on our thoughts and where we want our life to go.

I keep telling myself I want to start my own Happiness Project, but I get bogged down with the rest of life. How much of a cop out does that seem like? Gretchen recommends having a list of personal commandments. My list is a combination of commandments and life rules. This is a starting point, and will likely be revised over and over again, because, philosophies are everchanging and never completely concrete. I doubt I'll ever be finished with the creation of this list. But, it provides me with a starting point, and that is a step in the right direction.

My 8 Life Rules

1. Be true to myself and others, especially my immediate family and friends.
2. Eat the "French way", as Mireille Guiliano describes in her book French Women Don't Get Fat, meaning, eat with my head and not my stomach.
3. Get 30-60 minutes of exercise a day.
4. Belong to a group or club that meets often enough to form bonds/friendships.
5. Know why I wake up in the morning - to be the best, most caring, mother and wife possible and to continually engage and connect my family so that we can thrive.
6. Appreciate the small things in life such as a beautiful picture, view, flower, plant, a special moment with my family.
7. Avoid too much TV and "screen-time".
8. Upgrade my social network - surround myself with people who are happy themselves and in turn make me happy. Depressed people will only drain me.

What are your rules for life? Have you ever thought about making a list?

This guy makes me pretty happpy :-)

Pregnant Shot

2011-01-16T16:20:00.000-07:00

Here I am, every one. Truckin' along, one day at a time! Is May here yet?

I just did 30 min with the BOB, windy and with a flat tire! AH! But it's done, yeyy! I'm going to track my miles from now on via DailyMile so that I can see what I'm doing during this pregnancy. Hopefully will give me some validity.

Have a good Sunday!

Pregnancy = Slow down

2011-01-05T09:17:00.000-07:00

So, you know how when you're pregnant you can tell when you've ohhh just overdone it on a given day? That was me yesterday. No work, as school started today and I won't be working until Friday myself, but I ran around like a crazy woman. Babysat 4 children in the AM, came back to give Logan a nap and do laundry, make calls and take care of some issues (order tail light for car, make dr. appointments, etc), grocery run for inordinate amounts of fruits and veggies, off to gym to meet Mike and get in a (short) run, some eliptical, some light weights, and stretching. Back home to feed Logan, make dinner for me and Mike, and make a massive pot of soup for meals for the rest of the week. Take a shower, chat with Mike, say Happy Anniversary (our 2nd wedding anniversary :-) we already went out for it over the weekend), and get in bed. Oh and then get a pout from the husband when I didn't want to "cuddle". Lame. Sometimes I can't do it all, right?! But really, all was good, just a tad exhausted. It was the gym that did me in, and so today will be a non-workout day. Not like I can go anywhere, Mike took my car this AM because he lost his keys! Hopefully they turn up today somewhere...

So anywayyyy there is my story about yesterday. I have not been working out/RUNNING nearly as much as I did while preggo with Logan, and that is by choice. I think it is doing good things for me, as I need to keep myself in working order rather than exhausting myself from silly workouts. For now, it is for health and happiness that I workout, not high physical fitness. Although, I have been dreaming about triathlons and getting back into them...things to look forward to!

Enjoying some quality time together

2010-12-30T09:36:00.000-07:00

Here's to hoping you all had a wonderful Christmas and will have a happy New Year as well.

This week has been great. Aside from cleaning the house, de-cluttering, and making it look open-house ready for people to view, Logan and I have thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Not having work until next week when school starts back up, we have spent the mornings in my bed watching cartoons with coffee and a sippy cup of milk, Logan actually sitting between my legs and relaxing (which is not much like him at all), me reading a book off of my new Kindle. After a while we rouse ourselves and get to work on the day. Someone stopped by to see our house last night, and so I spent the entire day dusting, sweeping, shoving books and magazines in strange places. I've packed away a lot of things that we don't use frequently, away in bins in the garage. Summer clothes, regular clothes that I just can't wear anymore, our entire spare bedroom which has been converted into Logan's new room with his new race care bed. Although I've been on mission to get our house in order, I don't mind. It actually gets better as more gets cleaned, more gets put away...things seem more simple as I discard things to go to the Goodwill...and there is less stuff around. The process is actually meditative and soothing.

The days here have been gray for almost 2 weeks now, it seems, but I don't mind much because it is a break from the relentless, glaring sun and huge open skies. I feel more enclosed with this cloud cover, less vulnerable. I've gotten out for jogs/walks with the BOB when the weather permits and isn't too windy. I rarely go to the gym, and when I do, I only spend about an hour or so on the bike or treadmill and doing some light weights. If anything, by going there I give Logan some time to play with other kids in the daycare. Starting next week he will be back to seeing our friends' kids a couple times a week when we trade off babysitting for each other, and then a new boy and girl at a woman's house where he will go for just one day a week while I work.

For the next few days, though, we will continue to enjoy our time off, relax in the morning with no place to go, and savor the moments together.

Merry X-Mas Eve...some lost thoughts about life on this day

2010-12-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have been turned off by going to the gym. I just can't force myself to go into that place, always crawling with the same people. Running on a treadmill or climbing on a stairclimber to nowhere...it seems ridiculous to me. Even lifting weights...it seems so fake and superficial and...silly. To repetitively lift these crafted weights when we could be lifting things like our children, boxes, laundry, wheel-barrows. I don't know. Maybe I'm looking for something more...simple. I think this recent turn-off to our gym is merely a small part of what I've been feeling lately. Sometimes I'm angry and almost sad at the world we live in, hoping to simplify things and live a life where I enjoy the small, ordinary things that go on rather than always push for more. More money, more house, more activities. These things don't even seem to make people happy. They are filling some void that still remains unless we fill it with awareness and thoughtfullness.

So anyway, not quite sure how I will deal with these issues as the world around me is increasingly plagued by a fast pace that the human brain is not actually programmed to keep up with (tid-bit from a teacher-prep class this past semester). Sometimes I wish I could be raising children 20 or 30 years ago...when things were less competitive and it was okay to have, well, and ordinary day.

Have a wonderful X-Mas and I hope that every one is grateful for what they have.

4 months of silence, but I'm breaking it!

2010-12-13T11:31:00.000-07:00

I got through it. The semester has come to an end, I received A's in my classes, and I feel truly accomplished. However, through recent developments, it turns out that I will not be able to finish this program here in NM. It looks like we are planning to move back to NE in the near future (meaning, before I will be able to finish the program), and that I would have to teach under the license for 3 years here before being able to transfer it to Mass. or NH. So, needless to say, things won't work out here. I was bummed at first, yet, I think these are all signs that we are supposed to go live in NE. Various things have been going on, and I think it's time for us to end our stay in NM. I have put the house on the market, and we will try to get it sold before we leave, but if not, we have a free place to stay back in NE until it DOES sell (with family). Oh, and did I mention that I am 4 months pregnant? Yeah, there's another singer! I found out right after starting classes, and being plagued by excessive fatigue, managed to get through my studies and classes dealings with home life and work. Amazing, the things you can do when you put your mind to it. But I am glad it's all over, because now I can focus on my family, being home at night with them, and being pregnant. As for continuing my education, I will probably enter a Masters program once we get back to NE, as that is something that I can take with me everywhere.

As for fitness related things, the first three months of this pregnancy kept me down and out, and I did minimal exercise. I have been sticking to walking/jogging, stretching, minimal weights, and some yoga at home. Oddly, I have not gained as much weight as I did the last time. Having an active 17 month old attributes to that. Time for me to snarfle down some lunch, now.

I have been MIA

2010-08-24T19:15:00.000-06:00

I have been MIA for sure. Just super busy and really trying to prioritize my life. Although I love writing, this blog took a back seat, and things will most likely continue this way. I may post every now and again...something on a workout or a recipe or the like. I recently got accepted into an Alternative Teacher Licensure Program, so I am going full steam ahead on that one! SO EXCITED. So with a few classes, work, babysitting my friend's kids one day a week, and school work....oh and child and husband...I have been focusing on what's most important.

Happy running, eating, training, living!

BDay Cake and Getting Ready for New England Vaca

2010-07-21T08:10:00.000-06:00

Happy hump day!

Where do the weeks go? The days? The month of July? :::sigh::: Almost end of summer and then back to school/work mid-August. I can't say that I mind...I'm actually looking forward to getting back to work. I have my babysitting set up so that Logan will be w/ grandma and a friend on the 3 days that I work, so I'm not relying on daycare anymore. If I need to work an extra day I may have to find someone who will take him as a drop-in, but that shouldn't be difficult. Super excited that he will be spending time with people I know and trust, and that I will be saving the extra money!

We had his birthday party, which was a huuuuuge bash, over the weekend. Lots of people, lots of food, lots of craziness...and lots of cake. Someone needed an immediate bath. Check it out.

So darn cute. :-)

So, from one thing on to another. We have company coming for a couple days this weekend, and then I am leaving on Sunday for New England. Yeyyy! Just me and Logey, hubs can't make it due to work. We'll miss him a looooot. But it should be good to get away :-) We'll be up at my parent's lake house in NH, then down to MA for a while...and then possibly to Cape Cod to visit my Grammie. Maybe get in some beach time? Logan hasn't been to the beach yet, so that'll be interesting. If you can't tell from the picture, he is Mr. Whitey. We'll have to bathe him in SPF. But, as I sit here, I am realizing I only have 4 days until we leave...hmmm. It's not like I have to clean the house, because Mike will be here and well...wait a sec, what am I thinking. He won't clean the house. So looks like I'll have to do some maintenance cleaning before I leave. As far as packing goes, I won't have to bring a ton since I'll probably wear the same thing every day (you know how vacas go...), so the real project will be packing for the boy. Ah well. I have a lunch date today with a couple friends, so the packing can wait.

Annnnnd on to EXERCISE. YES I still do that. It has been 100 degrees here lately, so running outside has just been miserable. I ran 4 miles on Saturday and thought I was going to DIE. I poured sweat for an HOUR after I was done, which never happens. Yesterday I did 600-800-800-600-400 on the treadmill. I didn't have my watch on, but I started out at 7:24 pace for the first 600, cut down to 7:19 for the next 2 800s, and then cut down to 7:03 pace by the end of the 600. The 400 was at 6:45 pace. I know. Looks a little inconsistent. I was trying to get faster each time, and my conclusion is that I could have started out faster, around 7:15 pace and then gotten to just under 7 minute pace by the end. I like to start slow(ish) and finish stong. Anywhoooo, today will be ean easier day, as I also lifted yesterday. Feeling a little sore today. Maybe a little walk/jog with the stroller and some yoga.

Okay, have a good day!

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Happiness Journal

I am soooo happy for vacas to see family and friends!
I am soooo happy for a good night's sleep (doesn't seem to happen anymore!)

Birthday Wishes to my Baby...and some yoga today

2010-07-13T09:14:00.000-06:00

Today is my son's birthday - he is 1 year old! Crazy to think at this point last year I was in a whole helluva lot of pain, lol. But it resulted in this little cutie.

Sometimes I feel like the year went by quickly, but other times...not so much. People say that the days are long but the years are short. I think there's some truth to that.

Now, a whole year later, he is walking around and getting quicker every day. He'll be running before I know it, and then I'm really in for it.

So, on to another year here. Wish me luck ;-)

It's hot here today, or at least, it will be. No run for me today, as I am super duper sore from lifting over the last week. I really went at it to jolt my body awake, and it worked. So today I am going to get out for a walk before it gets too hot, and get some easy yoga in. Tomorrow I will get a run in - 4 miles. Nothing crazy. I've kind of been on a running hiatus the last couple weeks. Not sure why...do any of you ever go through that? I'm sure I will get back on it, but lately it has just been so HOT here that I find it unmotivating to run outside. It will be really nice once September hits. But that's not for a while.

I forgot to do a happiness journal last post! So here it is:

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Happiness Journal:

I am happy that I have a healthy, active baby :-)

I am happy for frozen berries from Trader Joe's.

I am happy for the healthy body I have that can take me all over the place and give me the energy I need to get through each day!

All over the place Saturday

2010-07-10T10:56:00.000-06:00

Popping in for a quick minute here on this Saturday morning. I threw the kid in bed for a "nap", although it seems as though the napping part won't happen. The husband went out for a 2 hour ride and 1 hour run this morning, and just called me from his work to tell me he was alive. Apparently it was a little tough. He's trying to start building up miles and time for Ironman AZ 2011. It will be a big commitment, a lot of time spent away from home (when he already spends most of his time at work and training)...so it will be a lot to handle over the next year. Fine if we were single and childless, but that that's not the case. I am usually pretty good about giving him the time he needs to train etc...but I am struggling a little with this, as I know that it will be hard on all of us. I am trying to be understanding, and I really want him to train is butt off and do well so he can qualify for Kona. I'm behind him all the way, all the time. This will just test us all, I guess :-)

We have a bbq to go to this afternoon, and at this point I'm not sure if I'll get a workout in.

Yesterday I ran with the BOB for 35 minutes in the AM, and then lifted for 30 min at the gym. Then, around 5PM I picked Mike up from work and we put Logan in the backpack and went for a hike on the trails for 1.5 hours. Sooo...I got some good exercise in :-) Today I will try and get some stretching and pilates in. That will be good enough. I'd rather spend some time together with the fam since we don't do it often.

Still trying to find a 1/2 mary to run. I'll keep ya posted in what I decide to do.

Okay, and now off to make myself a bite to eat. Check you all later.

4th of July 8k

2010-07-05T08:55:00.001-06:00

Hey all.

Well, it's Monday morning after the 4th, and I feel like I was flattened by a bus. Just totally whipped. Not sure why...it just sort of hit me. I woke up today and moved to get up and...ooyyy. Just exhausted. I didn't even run a long race yesterday - an 8k (never run one of those before...). Despite my fatigue, I'm feeling pretty good about my performance. Let me preface this little report by saying that I believe I hade 3 too many peartinis the night before. We went out for a drink and I ended up having 3. I wasn't hungover the next morning, just a little dehydrated? Ha. So, I feel as if I could have had a better race had I not consumed the alcohol (oh...and the 2 beers after those martinis, oops), and gotten more sleep. That being said, I faired pretty well. The race started at 7am...a little earlier than I would have liked, but fine. I went by myself, which I don't normally do, but Mike had to bring Logan to Grandma's so he could bike for 2 hours. It was kind of nice being there alone. Anyway, so we started off at 7, it was a beautiful day, a little high in humidity for NM. Nothing major, though. I headed out easy the first 1/2 of the first mile, and picked it up once I cleared ahead of the mass of runners. First mile came in at an even 8 min/mile pace. Not bad. I had originally wanted to run 7:45's, and I had based this on the fact that I can run a 5k at 7:24 pace, and my last 10k was at 8:07 pace. I think that estimate was a bit off, seeing how an 8k is closer to a 10k than a 5k....needless to say I ran slower than that. But that's okay. So, I continued running along, and kept an even pace of 8 min. miles for the 2nd mile as well. At this point I had picked off some more people, and was running behind one girl and practically alongside this 18 year old kid. He was big and muscley, and was breathing hard by this point. He stayed with me until about mile 3.5...where we struck up a chat and he was like, "if you would just slow down, I'd feel fine right now. But I'm trying to keep up." Then he asked if I wanted to slow down with him, to which I replied, no thank you! And I took off without him. Nice kid, though. At this point I passed the girl who was in front of me, and I was running alone for the remaining 1.5 miles. I was feeling pretty good, and was super steady at 8 min mile pace. My left hip flexor was beginning to bother me, though, because honestly? I haven't been running as much as I was this spring. And I have skipped track practice for about 3 weeks soooo....I was feeling sub-par. So, the last loop to the finish line came up, and I was pretty much ready to be done. There was a nice gradual half mile hill at the end, and then it flattened out. As I was running down the last stretch, a girl I had passed at mile 1.5 came speeding by me with her short little legs. I know her from the gym, and was like DAMN! I hate those people who have a good kick at the end. I personally don't have a great kick at the end, and so I just continued chugging along. I picked it up a bit when I saw the clock said 39:50....but alas, was unable to break 40 minutes. That's okay. I didn't have a goal for this race anyway, I was just pissed I got passed at the end, BOOO!

So, I finished, walked over to some shade and sat down (after retrieving water), and my heart was beating super hard and I was sweating martinis...err....bullets. Yeah. I think those drinks the night before were pumping their way out of my system. Yeck. I milled around, chewed on some bread offered by a great bakery at the race, and then hopped in my car to head home. Didn't stick around-didn't think I had placed because there were a lot of runners...a lot of women. Anywho, checked the results this AM and I ended up in 3rd in my age group - woohooo! Would have made 2nd if that GIRL hadn't scurried by me at the end. She beat me by 3 seconds. Bahh. But, I'm happy! 3rd in age group out of 18; 14th woman overall out of 128; 72nd runner out of 258.

Not bad! Didn't claim the prize since I left...maybe they can send it to me. If not, whatev.

Nice to know I can hang with the big dogs. Now imagine if I actually went to bed early and didn't indulge in too many beverages? Ehhhhh noooooo. That would just be boring!!

Hope you all had a wonderful 4th. We bbq'd afterwards, watched some fireworks along the horizon (since you can see for miles where we live), and crashed into bed around 11PM. Now I am sucking down coffee and shuffling around like an old woman. We'll just veg today. Back to reality tomorrow.

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Happiness Journal:

Today I will just HANG OUT as a priority!
I am happy for a good book.
I am happy for swimming pools.
I am happy for the atuo setting on the coffee pot (coffee MADE for me before I get up?!)

I AM a Runner

2010-07-01T09:07:00.000-06:00

New love: Almond Butter. Why didn't any one TELL me it was so GOOD?! Picked some up at Trader Joe's yesterday. Nice for a change, since peanut butter had gotten old to me.

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My new little revelation: I am going to be happy to run shorter distances, and not agonize over feeling pressured to run a marathon or do a 1/2 Ironman. That's right, I said it! What is it with "runners" saying that you're only a true runner if you have run a marathon. That is such a bunch of BS. I have struggled with calling myself a runner or a triathlete because I didn't want those "real" runners or tri'sters to look down on me. Well guess what, I am so over that. If I can run a competitive 5k, 10k, and 1/2 marathon - which I can - than I think I am entitled to call myself a runner, right? Same goes for tri's...I have only done sprints, but those are valid in my mind. Marathons take a lot of time and commitment, and far too many weekly miles for me to even fathom right now. To be honest, I don't FEEL like running 20 miles on my Sunday. I would so rather work out as I please, maybe a nice 6 miler, and then have my day free for other important things (son, husband, friends, other hobbies). Maybe someday I will revisit the idea of completing a marathon, but for now, it's on the wayyyy back burner. And I am okay with that.

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Happiness Journal:

I'm going to take the little guy in the BOB for a 30 minute run BEFORE it gets to be 100 degrees out!
I will write one article today.
I am happy for 2 cups of joe in the AM!

Turning Over a New Leaf...? Maybe.

2010-06-30T16:32:00.000-06:00

Happy HUMP day! I am here for a brief while, and then I am off to the gym. I find that I have phases where I work out a lot in the gym, and then other times work out a lot outside. Hey, it works for me so why not. Not sure what the workout will be today, but most likely some running on the treadmill (egh, I know, I know...it's just too damn hot out and I don't feel like pushing 50+ pound stroller either). I'm thinking, since I missed track last night, that I will do a track workout that is TBD. Regardless, I will get in some speedwork, which is always wonderful. Then I'll probably hit some weights, because I've forgotten how much I looooove them. And thennnn I will head out to the pool with the child so he can get some splashing in. Sounds like a rather enjoyable Wednesday evening to me, no?

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The beginnings of my stuffed portabellas

Ooookay. So speaking of turning over leaves, I have been tuning into my diet lately, weeding out bad food, and figuring out what I can literally "stomach" and what I cannot. I've been dabbling in the raw food diet because it not only intrigues me, but I think there's a lot of credibility to the whole idea. I have been definitely eating a lot less red meat, and I feel like it has totally helped my insides settle down. I stick to chicken and fish now, and those in lower amounts as well. According to Dr. Oz (why do I LOVE his show so much?!), only a quarter of your plate should consist of protein, and that is not at every meal. Half of your plate should be fruits/veggies, one quarter protein, and the remaining quarter should be nuts and herbs and whole grains. They actually put a whole bunch of food on a plate to show you what you should be eating, and it looks pretty damn good. Why would people eat anything BUT that?! Also, I have been looking into cancer-fighting foods. If it's possible to actually prevent cancer through the food we eat, it's insane to think that people haven't tackled this before. Apparently, women who eat broccoli or leafy greens twice a week have a 72% less chance of getting breast cancer. Sounds goood, right? It's a fact that Americans are at fault for much of their own sicknesses, obesity, and even cancer. How have we gotten to this - I thought we were a pretty smart nation (HA - that's a subject for another day...) Buying the right foods and thoroughly preparing them for our benefit is the only way to control our health, however, much of society has forgotten that we ARE what we EAT. I'd rather not be a meatball sub...ew.

Do you guys take the time and energy to buy and prepare healthful food? To me, it's FUN to cook and then enjoy it all! Yummmmooooo. What do you make that is exceptionally good and healthy?

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Happiness Journal

Today I am going to read my book and not feel like I should be doing something else.
Today I am going to have a glass of red wine with dinner!
Today I am going to the gym and LOVING it.

My Own Happiness Project

2010-06-29T11:07:00.000-06:00

Hello all!

So, on a quest to create more happiness in my life, I am going to start keeping a "happines journal" that I will add to the end of each of my posts. No longer will I let the people around me bring me down, no longer will I dwell on every little thing in life!

So, it's onward - with a few things each day that I will do to make myself a happy. Just a few small goals to accomplish. Because really...it's the little things in life that we need to revel in.

~~~

Yesterday I ran 3 miles on the 'mill (because it is way too freaking hot here in NM), lifted some weights which felt GREAT, and then took the kiddo swimming. He looooves the water, and splashed around like a maniac, getting me, my sunglasses, and every one in a 3 foot radius soaked. But it was great and I am so happy that he doesn't mind getting dunked. He'll be a super swimmer!

I need new shoes. That's right, I have NOT bought any new running shoes, and it has become a problem. I feel bad forking over the money, but this is one of those things I just need to pony up for, isn't it? Yep. No more excuses. I'd rather not land in a dr's offive due to excruciating knee pain when I knew that I could have prevented it. I'm smarter than this!!!

I want to run another 1/2 marathon, so I think I will sign up for the Chips 'n Salsa 1/2 in September. I would like to better my time of 1:56 in March...the race in which people ran off course, we ran through mud, and got super backed-up which I SWEAR hurt my time!

Okay time to enjoy this nap time, although he will probably wake up soon...

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Happiness Journal:

Today I will:

take my son for a walk down by the river
hit up the library to check out a book to learn Swedish!

Sooo Tired Sunday!

2010-06-27T20:55:00.000-06:00

I was ready for bed at 5PM today...and it's 8:45 right now, and after I throw this post together I will graciously be turning off my light and rolling over. One night of camping with the kiddo and husband, and another family with twin 4 year old girls and a 1.5 year old boy, spells f-a-t-i-g-u-e. Gah. Throw in a few beers and well, you get the idea. I just can't hang anymore. :-( I feel pretty gross also knowing that I slammed several hot dogs and most of the skittles that Mike brought. Since when do I like skittles?? Ohh yes, I like them after a few Coors Lights have flowed. Needless to say, I am ready for another day, a day in which I can be productive and sweat out what I did to myself this weekend.

My training plan is going well, I guess? As I stated before, I am struggling with motivation. I get booooored quickly? Variety in working out has always been important to me because monotany and me just don't jive. That's why training for a marathon sometimes sounds daunting...granted, I still have a desire to do one. Someday, someday. I am thinking I will hit up a 10K in July that is pretty popular, just to maintain my competitive streak. Any one else get bored when they aren't racing? I love the thrill of it, and when I do race, I remember why I do what I do. Imagining a life without any sort of athletic competition seems entirely impossible.

For tomorrow I have a swim, and then I'll probably manage a yoga session at home during nap time.

And I was thinking...when did it get to be the end of JUNE people?!

Meditation - helpful or no?

2010-06-22T15:45:00.000-06:00

Whoa. I have been MIA, so sorry about that. I am totally ti-RED right now. Logan has been sick and not sleeping at night, so I am lacking in the sleep department. When is that kid gunna sleep all night? I'm waaaaiting....? So...my "training" hasn't gone well since I returned fromt he cruise. I've gotten a couple swims in, some runs, one speedwork session...and a some crosstraining with P90X, yoga, etc. Guh. I have NOT gotten on my bike outside yet; I WAS on it once before we left for vaca...but that was it. So when will I start to train "seriously"? Ha, who knows, it may be never. I guess I will have to become accustomed to sleepless nights and running around like crazy all day...and the fact that training just might not always fit into my schedule. As long as I become at peace with that, things will be okay in the world of Lisbet.

So, on a totally different note, I was reading some blogs on Psychology Today. You should really check that site out, as there is great insight from tons of smart, highly educated people in the field of psychology/sociology. I came across several posts on meditation. It got me thinking. Does meditation truly help clear our minds, increase mindfulness, help us deal with relationships better? I once thought that meditation was only practiced by crunchy/granola types, and scoffed at it. Now, though, with my life being what it is (the usual adult life of sometimes (most times?) stress, fatigue, constant issues to deal with), I wonder...would meditation be advantageous for me? Could it really help my mind, body and spirit? At one point in my life I'd have laughed at this question, but now I think I need that sort of stability and clarity. Especially in today's world, where it seems that no one can just be happy, I figure...why not join the minority of people at ease. What do you all think? Any one out there meditate, or know people who do? Or do you think it's just a crock?

Back from Bermuda...

2010-06-13T17:02:00.000-06:00

...and I am totally lacking motivation. I guess that's what late nights until 2-3am and lots of drinking will do to a person. Ahhh well. I'll get back to training, and when I do, you'll know it. Until then, here's a glimpse of our trip...

Two Days Until...

2010-06-01T07:49:00.000-06:00

Two day. Two DAYS! Then we'll be cruisin'. I am 100% ready for this, probably more mentally than anything else.

I am one of those people that never packs in advance. I just throw a bunch of things in my bag the day we leave, and more often than not, remember to bring most necessities. Not only that, I am a light packer as well. No matter where I am going, or how excited I am, I always leave the packing to the last minute.

This time, I packed three days in advance. 100% packed, toiletries and all. THREE DAYS. What does that tell you...?

Patellofemoral Pain Fixed by Yoga

2010-05-27T16:46:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday all. Tomorrow is the last day of school for Albuquerque, which means my last day of work! Actually, I may not even be needed as it is a half day and most teachers don't need a sub. Sooo it's summer time! We go on our cruise in ONE week. I CANNOT wait.

I just finished uo some Yoga X (yeah, didn't do the whole 90 minutes). It is HARD man?! I mean, seriously. If you had been a fly on the wall you would have thought I was completely incapable. Tumbling and jerking and falling on my head. But to be positive here, I am noticing marked improvement in my flexibility, balance and strength. So, one day, when I do master this 90 minute Yoga X vid, I'll show you all some stellar moves. But for now I'll just do it in the privacy of my home where I can't embarass myself. For any one who does not practice yoga, I am telling you to incorporate it into your routine. Try 20 minutes, 3 days a week. I promise that you will reap the benefits. The reason that I am committing to it is for various reasons, one being my unavoidable knee pain. I know that it stems from muscle imbalances, so strenghtening and for me, the strectching aspect, is key to relieving the pain. From skiing I know that my quads and hamstrings are all messed up regarding % of strength, and that my hamstrings are far too tight. I'm hoping that with regular yoga I will work out these kinks and see the knee pain start to diminish. I have also been doing some exercises to strengthen my entire quad muscle. Tight hamstrings and hip flexors are also a major cause, so the yoga helps drastically with this. Any one else have Patellofemoral Pain (runner's knee)? It CAN be fixed. A great resource is right here.

So, now that I am done being a yogi, I'm meeting the hubs to swim a bit. First must feed that child o' mine, though...and it will probably be hot dogs again (this is all he will eat as of right now. gross).

We workout fiends DO like being called crazy.

2010-05-25T21:25:00.000-06:00

View out of our back door at Gateway Canyon

So...the mini-vaca was to Gateway Canyon Resort, in CO. It was cool, but weird. Totally out in the middle of nowhere, they were understaffed, and the spouse sprained his ankle pretty badly from falling off a cliff (literally). Sooo...overall it was fun, with a few bumps in the road. But now I'm back! And detoxing and getting back on training schedule. As of right now, I started my Olympic training schedule for the next 7 weeks until the Cochiti Triathlon here in NM. I'm actually following the one in the book The Woman Triathlete, by Christina Gandolfo. So I'll keep you all updated on how it's going!

Today - biked an hour (inside) and ran 20 minutes
Tomorrow - swim 45 minutes. I am too lazy to let you in on what the workout IS, so too bad.

Back to the mini-vaca, though...I thought I'd run this by you all. The vaca was really a meeting for the shareholders of my husband's company. We were in CO, surrounded by hiking/mountain biking trails, swimming, atv'ing, white water rafting...and every one at this said meeting sat around the pool ALL day EACH day drinking beer (or Crown or wine or tequila...) In my mind, I'm thinking, what a bunch of fat lazy ****s!! Is that totally mean? But really, what a weird place to bring people who don't work out. Mike and I (and Logan) took advantage of the activities until he wrecked his ankle, and they named us "fittest couple of the weekend".

Isn't it funny how some people see us as being off our rockers? I love being called nuts.

Here to chat about my latest track workout...but off for vaca tomorrow!

2010-05-19T15:35:00.000-06:00

Greetings fellow runners, mothers, friends, and workout extraordinaires. How've you all been? Sorry I've been MIA a tad this week, but super busy with uh...life. But I won't bore you with all that. No one cares that I take the trash out on Tuesdays and that my sitter for work next week is bailing on me, right? Of course not! So onward to better conversation.

Last night I was at track practice, as usual. I think I have only missed one of them, which is great because otherwise I wouldn't do speedwork. Coach had us doing some "longer" speedwork. 2 800s, 2 1200s, 2 800s. Mile warm up and cool down. We were supposed to run them at about 10k pace, with the 1200s being a few seconds slower if need be. I don't know what was up with me, but I felt AWESOME! Times were as follows:

800 - 3:43
800 - 3:41
1200 - 5:41
1200 - 5:38
800 - 3:45
800 - 3:41

Then he had us do a 400, for "fun". I managed a 1:29. After the entire workout my legs were bricks for the first 100 of that, but I felt solid and strong the whole time. LOVE love love those workouts where it seems like you could go forever and ever. Not that I wanted to keep doing 800s over and over, but I could have. SUPER pumped and I feel as if I'm getting faster.

Also...I have this burning desire to do a marathon. Have never done a full. I was training for one when I found out I was preggo and stopped. Having that itch again, though. Hmmmm...

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We're leaving for SOMEWHERE tomorrow morning. It's the husband's company meeting/vaca...and they have yet to tell us. Like it's supposed to be fun that we will be driving 7-12 hrs without knowing where we're going? Some people think we are going...see pic below. Yep. Moab, Utah! How cool would that be! ANNNDD if that is so, we have a new Kelty hiking backpack to throw the kiddo in. We got it from a friend, who threw in two pairs of kid's hiking boots for when he's like, four. How freaking cute are they?

Alright, must pack and prepare. Check you all later.

I'm super fast, yo!

2010-05-12T09:30:00.000-06:00

Hey guys - it's hump day! And I am SICK as a DOG. AGH! I hate being sick. So annoying. So, the results for the Jay Benson Tri finally got posted. Of course, I only did the run, which was 3 miles exactly. Like I said, I had forgotten my watch (really disciplined athlete I am, huh?) I thought I'd hit the 23 min mark, and would have been happy with anything in the mid-23s...but I ran a 22:12! Nice! So, that basically means I ran a 23 minute 5K, and the fastest I had ever run a 5K was 24:07 or something. I mean, I have not raced a lot of 5Ks...but still, I am pumped! Getting faster is fun :-) Pace was 7:24. I know I can do better than that (can't we always?) I guess I aspire to run an under-23-minute-5K. Totally doable. Below is a video that's pretty cool to watch - about an 8 minute creation of the day. See if you can find me somewhere near the beginning, when we all set out for the run. All the men go out, and then I am the second girl you'll see.

Find more videos like this on ABQTri

Anyway, I'm sitting here with a tissue shoved up my nose to stop the constant drainage. Yuck. Must go remove it and take some medication to stop the pressure in my head. Have a great day all!

Tired Monday, new tri suit, and things to be happy about!

2010-05-10T10:18:00.000-06:00

Today is a windy day here in NM. What else is new? It dies down as May progresses, though. This means no run outside - unless I want sand in my eyeballs, which I don't. Yesterday was the Jay Benson Tri...I did not get to do the entire thing as I didn't sign up in time, however, I did finagle a spot on a team. So I got to run. And I got to run in my new tri suit. I know, I wasn't biking or swimming buuuuut....it is just so comfortable! Can't wait to use it for REAL. Anyway, I don't have an official time on my run, and of course I forgot my watch that morning soooo I am at a loss for how fast I went. I felt pretty quick, however. I'll let ya know once I find the results.

Last week was a tough week for various reasons. And now we are all sick. Bleh. Hate having a clogged up nose. So this morning I am feeling a little tired and sluggish and blaaahhhh.

However, things to be thankful for AAAARRRE:

- vaca next week from Thursday-Sunday with spouse's company (he'll have one day of meetings, and then the rest are just play time - but they are keeping the location a secret. AGH! How can I PLAN without knowwwwing!?)

- cruise! I will miss Logey :-( But this will be good for spouse and I to get away for a bit. I think we need a much needed break from reality. Any one else feel that way?

- work is over on May 28th for the summer! So Logan and I can head on out to the park/pool/trails whenever we want! I may put him in a baby swim lesson with a friend and her 1 yr old...not sure about that one yet, though. Seems pointless when I used to teach every level of swim lessons known to man...but what's 40 bucks to have some extra fun with friends, right?

- spouse (why do I use the term "spouse" instead of "husband"...?) is getting all the p90x videos from someone at work today! YEY!!! Looking forward to new workouts, because I am totally getting bored and sort of plateauing.

- I am planning a much-needed trip back to New England for July, I think. I wasn't going to, but now I think I want to. It's about time to see the other set of grandparents (my parents) and all of my friends, etc.

- the view out of kitchen window, and little things like newly planted flowers in the backyard. More pictures to come once I'm done planting in our backyard. We've done a LOT back there this year...lots of sweat (no tears, but I might have wanted to at times) and hard work!

Cruise Fashion Show

2010-05-04T16:20:00.000-06:00

I was bored today while baby napped (a rare 2.5 hour nap for him, I was like uhhh hello dude?) Anywho, I entertained myself by basically playing dress-up and taking pictures of myself. Don't lie. You would all do this, too. I'm slightly embarassed that I'm showing you all of these - even a bathingsuit shot. Yes, I did prance around in my swimsuit. In my house. By myself.

10K results

2010-05-04T08:31:00.001-06:00

So I ran my 10K on Sunday, and it was great! The Run for the Zoo in Albuquerque had 11,000 runners. 11,000!? Crazy. I had never done this race before, and I'll say that considering the amount of participants, it was a very well run race. Being that so many people partake, the first couple miles were pretty dense and I found myself dodging and weaving. It never truly thinned out, but at least got easier to run. My time was 50:39...which I actually was surprised by because that's what I crossed at, and I know that it took a while for me to cross the start line so I thought I would have possibly broken 50 minutes...so I'm not sure what happened there. So, I guess I would have LOVED to break 50 min, and that will just be my goal for the next 10K. I know I can do it. It was a great race, though, and Mike stayed with Logan and another husband with his kids while we ladies ran :-) Good husbands we have :-) Since I had never run a 10K before, I wasn't sure how to set out for this one. I probably could have started out faster, but I didn't want to burn out and die by mile 6. My splits were negative, though, by a lot. I didn't take them myself, but at each mile they yelled out your time. From what they said, I figured I was running around 8:30s at the beginning, and the last couple of miles were under 8's. Overall pace of 8:05. I'm pretty happy with that. My PR 1/2 Mary was at 8:12 pace sooo....I'm not toooo far off. Now I'd like to see what I can run a 5K at! Under 24 minutes would be nice!

On another note, I am about a month away from our cruise. Aaaand I am worried about getting into a bathingsuit. More specifically, my mid-section. I'm pretty much being OCD about it, though, because it's not really that bad. I do want to diminish some of it, though, but how? Any suggestions? I have just been running/lifting/swimming, so I believe it's time to switch it up. Any one use the P90X workouts? I have been researching them for two days now, and they seem like they have phenomenal results. I have never been one to use workout videos, but these intrigue me. Do I want to shell out the cash for them, though? I found used ones on Amazon for under $100, so I may go that route. If you have personal experience with them I'd love to hear about it.

Alright, it's another day so enjoy it! I'm going to finish up some coffee/breakfast and get some yoga in at some point this morning. Have a good one!

If you didn't run, what would you be doing?

2010-04-29T18:47:00.000-06:00

Where would you be/what would you be doing if you didn't run or take part in some sort of athletic event?

I'd like to hear your answers.

My answer - I would probably be super bored and searching for an outlet. I'd still be a gym rat, but I would be a weight-lifting rat specifically. I may not have lost my baby weight as fast. I wouldn't have met a lot of great people/friends. I may not have met my husband if it hadn't been for that first day in the pool that I taught him some swim technique (which ended up not helping him since he was ahead of the curve. Yeah, he already knew every drill I gave him).

How would your life be different?

Track Tuesday Finally!

2010-04-27T15:33:00.001-06:00

Warning: Brief baby update first.

My son has reached the point where he refuses to let me change his diaper. He will not lay down. He squirms, does backbends, crawls away with poop all over the place...GUH! So I have resorted to literally having him stand up while I slap the diaper on him. He's happy as a clam if he's rummaging through his changing table shelves, while I'm changing him. Getting pants on him is a whole different story, which is why he's usually pantsless lately. Hmm. Don't hate on me.

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I've been noticing many women in the blogosphere love running skirts. I have yet to try one, as I've always relied on my trusty spandex shorts. Yes. I love spandex. But...the idea of a cute little skirt intrigues me. Maybe I'll try it out, see how it fits, see if I get any whistles (what? totally kidding. kind of.) All I know is that they seem to be uber popular and get rave reviews. Any one have any suggestions for which they love the most? I've never dressed for fashion while working out. In college we practically competed to see who could wear the rattiest clothes to dryland ski practice. We basically prided ourselves on our cut up, holey shirts with paint stains on them. Now, things are different. The other day my husband said he thought we looked like the worst-dressed people in the gym. Both of us still wear clothes from college - him being MUCH worse seeing as he is soooo old (haha. he's 32). Does this mean I should think about buying some new gear? It's so expensive, though! AGH! Technical gear is not cheap, so we'll see how it goes. Maybe a shirt here and some shorts there to start, but no more.

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So today I am managing to get to track practice. I usually can't as I work on Tuesdays, but this week I switched my schedule for different reasons and am thus able to go to track. Sad to say I have not gotten much speed work in on my own, so group workouts are awesome. It will be a little brush up for ther 10K this Sunday. The Run for the Zoo in Albuquerque is a MOB scene. People call it the Run WITH the Zoo, and for good reason. The spouse was saying how it will be fine because you just need to get out in front of every one else. I guess that could work for me to an extent, but this race attracts Kenyans who train in Santa Fe. So, finishing in the top 10% is kind of impossible, let alone the tope 50%. I'll let you know how it goes. I just found out another mommy-friend is running it as well, so we'll have the husbands watch the kids (4 total) while we run. Sounds like a good Sunday to me, no? We'll celebrate with food and drinks at our house afterwards for the remainder of the day. Good stuff to look forward to :-)

What are you doing for workouts today? Tuesday is always a speed day for me when I'm in training mode. Happy Tuesday!

<-----Yes, this is how I put a diaper on my child - standing up. Is that weird?

A couple pictures here from the weekend. First Pic - Logan not so interested in the seals at the Zoo. Still too young for that stuff I guess? Second Pic - hasn't every parent offered a Corona (or Bud, or Coors Light) to their child?

Do you sometimes fall off the bandwagon of life? I think we all do at times.

2010-04-26T21:36:00.000-06:00

I find that I continually fall off the bandwagon. Maybe it's not visible to any one else, but it's glaringly obvious to me. I'm not talking about just the "workout-wagon" either. I'm talking about the life-wagon...in my case, this means: eating right, taking care of my body, making sure the rest of my family is fed well, keeping the house in some sort of order, working hard at anything I do (job, yard work, housework, whatever it is that is important...) maintaining normal adult responsibilities...(i.e. NOT buying a latte that costs 4 bucks and instead putting that money toward our vaca-fund). Sometimes I really have it all together. I feel like I'm doing a great job of getting it all done, but then for some reason I just fall off the wagon. Sometimes it lasts a day, sometimes it lasts a week. Most people on the outside probably don't see it, but I feel it. For example, not wanting to do the laundry. Any of it. Because it is just soooo annoying and I could totally just put it off. Or, it's way too much work to create a delicious dinner of healthy food so why not pull out the cheese and crackers instead? I DO always keep on working out, even if the workout is purely junk...but at least I get it done. But lately, I've been off kilter. Being tired doesn't help because I become cranky and angry at the drop of a pin. :::sigh:::

Any one else feel this way sometimes? It's a constant battle that I believe most people fight, and I have been working on ways to come to terms with, well, my life. Because, HELLO, I have a great life and so does every one else I know! Life has these detours that are actually quite short in the grand scheme of things. Like these child-rearing years. I find myself griping and moaning and groaning about gaining weight, losing weight, wanting to compete, wanting to run fast(er), wanting to lose 5lbs...blah blah you know how it is. In reality, what does it actually MATTER? No one else really gives a damn. And the question we should all ask ourselves during times like these is: "Will all of this really matter in 5 years?" If not, we should get over it and enjoy the moment.

So, today, I have five little things to think about when we think we just can't do it anymore. Some if these ideas come from the book God Never Blinks, by Regina Brett. Now, it is not a religious type book, and I am not what you would call a church-goer...but they are good tips that agnostics and spiritual people alike can relate to.

1 - Life is bumpy (ferociously turbulent, actually) so have fun bouncing along. Bounce off those bumps and enjoy them because, as all things do, they will flatten out eventually.

2 - Stop saving things for a "special occasion". Today is special enough. So drink the expensive wine, wear the nice lingerie, and burn the pricey candles.

3 - Don't compare your insides to every one else's outsides. You have no clue what their journey has been like, and don't think their life is better than yours. The world needs you to be you.

4 - If you are having a doom and gloom day, still get up, get dressed and show up for life. Make no major decisions about career, relationships etc. because you are probably just having an awful day. To which we are entitled, but try not to get stuck in the mud.

5 - Your children (if you have any) only get one childhood so make it memorable. Now is not the time to be selfish. Put the t.v. remote down and go play outside with them.

I plan on reading that book by Regina Brett and jotting her "lessons" down on paper to keep in a spot I can go to when I'm having a rough time. Because honestly, how tough is it really? Sometimes a few words on a notebook page staring back at you is all you need to brighten your day.

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I'm trying to ease my knee pain, or not make it any worse I guess, so today I was on the eliptical for 45 minutes and got some good lifting in for my legs and back. No abs today...don't want to do too many of those. I'm sticking to pilates 3-4 days/week. Below are some pics from during our walk this afternoon (just me and Loges).

Race Report Woes and Healthy Veggies

2010-04-21T09:41:00.000-06:00

Oh man - have had a few tough days here with a teething baby and therefore lack of sleep...but I am here, and I am going to give you the rundown on how the 1/2 went on Saturday. I'll make it bearable, but I do have some b****ing to do about the whole thing.

Sooo, here's the deal. The race has been under a new company for a couple years now, and they have struggled to put on a good race. This race wasn't any better. It had rained the night before (which means downpour in New Mexico...it's the only way it rains here) but turned out to be a beautiful, sunny day. We started late because there seemed to be some confusion on where the start line was. Once we took off, the people in the front all went the wrong way, due to a total lack of markers. So, once the middle of the pack got to the first turn we were all merging together as the front of the pack had turned around and was basically running into us all. There was a 3 foot wide bridge we had to cross over, and so every one was suddenly walking and then at a total standstill as we funneled through the bridge. So obnoxious. Once we got over the bridge people began to disperse and we got going on a massively muddy, rain puddle laden trail for the next three miles. Talk about caking up your shoes, throwing off your gait, and totally ruining new shoes if you had bought them (thankfully, I was in my old pain-inflicting shoes, HA). We looped back the start where it became pavement and went out for a couple more out and backs to complete the next 10 miles. Now, listen...how many out and backs can you really have in a HALF marathon. Really? Really? It was ridiculous. By the time I had kicked off all the mud, dislodged a humungooo rock from my shoes and gotten back into it, I was exhausted! I slowed down massively for the second half of the race, and could not WAIT to finish the race. I practically wanted to give up at mile 8, boooo :-(

Soo...I finished the race and had some major attitude, and was basically in tears. Couldn't tell you why I was so emotional. I was thinking to myself - why do I even bother with this running thing? It's not like I'm super duper fast?! Agghhh. I wanted to just give up on it all! But alas, I got over it and realized I was being a douche, once I factored in all the "issues" of the race. The race actually got a LOT of negative comments on Active - one of which stated that it was really an unfortunate race for those of us who went to race it - 13 miles is a looong way, and people train really hard and make this their "A" race. It was a big let-down for the serious runners.

So, my numbers, which aren't very specific, are as follows:

I ran the first 6 miles at 8:30 pace and felt pretty good, but that declined due to the shenanigans at the beginning of the race. So much so that I finished in 1:56:57...you can figure out the numbers for the latter half of the race, but I clearly slowed wayyy down! After talking with Mike about it, he claimed that we could deduct 3-4 minutes off our times to get what we possibly could have run it in. That made me feel better :-) On a good note, I DID run faster than in Tucson in December, and totally untrained as well! I guess impromptu races don't always work out that well...hmmm...yeah my fault on jumping in with two feet.

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Moving on here - do any of you struggle to find new and tasty foods to eat? Things can get superbly boring when you eat the same things all the time, and actually, you can miss out on much needed nutrients. Now that summer is creeping up on us I am looking for new veggies to cook up. It's fun to cook and eat new things, plus it broadens your dietary awareness. I checked out things I like, and things I don't frequently eat and created a list for you all to try out. From the list below, I want you all to pick one thing that you don't typically eat, and buy it on your next grocery trip. Do the same thing for the following grocery trip. Which foods are you going to try? I'll tell you what I tried out on my next post.

Artichokes - only have 60 calories per one medium artichoke, and hold 25% of your daily fiber and vitamin C. Plus they are fun to eat. Steam them for 30-45 minutes.

Radishes - contain antioxidants that are cancer fighters, as well as vitamin C. Slice them up in salads, pastas.

Arugula - one cup is 4 calories, and 28% of your daily Vitamin K. Good in salads, mixed with other greens, or in soups.

Beets - High in potassium and magnesium. Goood in just about anything - I just eat them as sides.

Mustard greens - Have beta carotene and phytochemicals (help combat cancer). I would just mix these into salads.

Fennel - It's a crunchy white bulb that is a good alternate to onions. Works as an inflammatory (good for runners, of course) that can relieve cramping and stomach spasms.

1/2 Mary tomorrow - glass of wine tonight! YES!

2010-04-16T17:37:00.000-06:00

Wow. I am alone. Like, in the house with NO child and NO husband. And I am doing NOTHING. Just got home from work and decided not to have a workout today due to the 1/2 tomorrow and my knees hurting this past week. It's not often I can sit on my bed and just jerk around with no pressing matters (errr...what...is it sad that laundry is sometimes a "pressing" matter? Whatever). This is GREAT - doing nothing that is! I think what makes it even grrrrreater is that it's only for a short period of time so I just relish in it even more. It's funny how the busier you are, the more things you are able squeeze in due to mad time management skills, I mean look at me - I am totally squeezing in quality "me" time right now. HAHA. And...to entertain myself I am displaying a picture of my guns above for you all to see. I know - so totally jacked (harr harr).

Anywayyyyy, so I have the 1/2 tomorrow and I am not properly trained. Meh. We will see how it goes. I am thinking I will start out at a comfortable pace (9:30 or so?) and then settle into a more "uncomfortable but manageable pace" after a few miles. And what is that pace? I'm not even sure, to be honest, but I am thinking somewhere around 8:45? That is a 100% wild guess. I have never been a real numbers person, and I never really predict race times and rely on pace goals...I don't even wear a watch. I just go by how I feel. It has worked in the past. So who knows what an "uncomfortable but manageable pace" will actually feel like. I will def let you all know in the race report! Who knows how this will pan out.

Oh. And I am running in my nasty ratty old shoes that give me apparent knee issues. Ugh. Not like I had time to run out and spring on new shoes...that will have to happen at a later date. Boy I hope my joints get through this intact!

On a whole different issue - I taught kindergarten today. They were AWFUL! Some classes are good, but mannnn this class was bad! AGH! I left feeling drained and like a needed a glass of wine! (which I remedied...) I can deal with one 5 year old, but 19?! Made me appreciate my little Logey man - check out this pic of him below. Fell asleep like this...and somehow managed to get his pants off before doing so...

Have a great weekend all - I'll check in on things after my race!

What Changes Could You Make Today, to Help You Feel More at Ease?

2010-04-13T23:01:00.000-06:00

I know, it's late, what am I doing up? Is 11 really that late, or am I just some old lady now? Who knows. Just a quick note here, I was poring over Amanda's blog RuntotheFinish, and she has this challenge that I think we all need to think about doing. If not on her blog, at least jot these things down for your own sake:

THREE things that you can change TODAY and implement for the next 30 days. Sometimes we all need to make slight changes to create an air of positivity...it can be that easy.

But skip over to her blog and check it out homies. Maybe all the help YOU need is to just stop hitting the snooze button every morning, eh?

Annnnnd I'm hittin' the hayyyy.

Crippled Knees Got Me Down On Running

2010-04-13T13:38:00.000-06:00

I think I may be crippled by the time I am 35. No really, with the way my knees acted up on Saturday night, you would have thought I was going to be in a wheelchair for the rest of my life. I ran 12 miles Saturday morning...and it went fine. A stupidly hilly loop (a few hills I even walked up, I won't lie, who was I trying to impress anyway?) So, with walking included, my pace was 9:10...a nice, pretty easy run in preparation for my half this weekend. My knees have always been an issue, probably from skiing hard since the wee age of 4. If my mileage is low and I suddenly try and jump from runs under 8 miles to runs of 12 or more, my knees react by inflicting pain on me that basically keeps me from doing anything. So...Saturday night, as I sat at a bonfire at a friend's house, my knees slowly but surely set up and started to hurt more and more until I basically couldn't stand/sit/walk...errr...do anything without wanting to cry. To be honest I doubt I have had them hurt this much before. That night I went to bed wondering if I would ever really be able to run far again. Alas, they are better now and I have recovered. So, I guess you all are thinking right now "duh lady, don't you know you can't increase mileage that fast?" Well YES I know this! But I've always been able to just go out and pound out extra miles without any problems. Grrr. Does any one else have such knee problems? Do you think this will prohibit me from staying super active in the future? Hope not. Guess I'll just have to smarten up - doh!

Okie doke - next dilemma - what to do about new running shoes. Mine are ancient (aka 9 months old HAHA) and they are pretty much on their way out. I have Mizuno Waves right now...not sure if I love them. I've had two of the same pair in a row now, but I'm not sure if I love them enough to buy them again. I kind of overpronate...so I need something with an extra arch. I was looking at the RW shoe guide, and the Nike Zoom Structure Triax 13s look good. Is it true that Nikes run narrow, or is that just an old myth? I used to buy them because I thought that was true (and I have a narrow foot...) I have also run in New Balance before and I really liked them...so the New Balance 760 are another option I found. Anywho, if I'm going to drop over 100 bucks on shoes, I want to do my research. Thank God RW has all the info on these shoes; it at least gives me a starting point. But as always, there are too many options!

~~~~~~~~~~~`

Does any one watch American Idol? It's Tuesday which means I know what I'll be watching! I feel so pathetic - never in my life have I watched this show, and for some reason the spouse and I have become addicted to it this season. Bleeeehhh. It'll be over soon enough...but...GO Crystal! Love that hippie music/style she has :-)

Happy Tuesday all - hope you get in a good sweat today. 3 mile run and a 30 min bike for me.

Tempo Run with a Stroller? And a New Flexitarian Diet.

2010-04-08T10:16:00.003-06:00

SICK children are no fun. Beside the point that I felt bad for poor little Logey yesterday, I did not get a SINGLE thing done except for a small batch of laundry. Hubby came to the rescue at around 5:30pm (which is uuuuuber early for him to be home) and let me head to the gym for a 55 minute elliptical session. How nice is THAT? MUCH needed escape; I was extremely grateful. Anywhooo, we woke up a tad happier today, and the little munchkin is napping now due to sheer exhaustion from crying all day and all night. Hoping we can get out today for a run - a tempo run is on the schedule, but not so sure how fast it will be with pushing the bambino...hmmm. I'll probably jog 1.5 miles...quicken it up for 15 minutes, and then jog another 1.5. After that, if all goes well and no crying ensues, I'll release him to the wonderous gym daycare ladies and get some weights in. Maybe no abs today...since I have been doing a lot of them...and I don't need to make my middle thicker! Still battling a slight layer on top of the abs that I am not so happy about...unnoticeable to others, but for some reason a huge issue for moi. I've actually begun totally changing my diet to a "flexitarian" diet. Meaning, I am not eating as much meat, maybe only one to two meals a week with a little bit of chicken...I'd like to get it down to one meal a week. My insides seem to agree better with mainly veggies, grains, and some fruit. Duhhh. Isn't that what we were created to eat? I think SO. And I might possibly have a slight dairy issue, where too much of it spells disaster for my intestines. I truly think that I FEEL better and perform better (running/attitude/happiness) when I eat this way (plants/fruits/grains). I notice a mjaor change when I eat too much red meat, cheese, or white bread...any one else notice this trend as well? I really wonder how, for so many years, I ate what I wanted and just weathered the painful gut, down mood, and sluggish feeling...not to mention skin problems. I was never one to have major skin issues, however, I notice a marked improvement when I eat a better diet.

The general consensus here is that it makes SO much more sense to eat yummy things that are good for us, thus allowing ourselves to enjoy a better quality of life. Plus, cooking great food is super duper fun, and a fantastic learning experience. I mean seriously, who knew kale could be so good (I did know this already, but did you?)

Anywho, to cheer on this whole flexitarian idea, I have been searching for good recipes. Any one like hummus? ME ME ME ME! I could eat it by the spoonful, which sounds gross but whatev. Check this out -

Garden Pea & Walnut Hummus
Makes 8 servings (~2 Tablespoons each)

INGREDIENTS
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1.5 cup frozen green peas, thawed
1/3 cup raw walnuts
1/2 lemon, juiced
1/4 cup fresh basil
Salt & pepper, to taste
Whole grain pita breads/flatbreads/baguettes, grilled

DIRECTIONS

In food processor, puree ingredients until smooth.
Serve hummus spread with grilled breads.
Optional: top hummus with chopped walnuts, basil, and drizzle of olive oil

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nutrition
Facts (hummus only)
Serv. size 2 Tbsp (37g)
Servings 8
Calories 78
Fat Cal. 56

Sounds SOOOO good. Not your normal hummus but I like change! I'll probably try this out this wknd and let you all know how it comes out, and then maybe you can add it to your handy little cookbook. I have my own cookbook chock full of recipes I've found/been given. It's a great idea to have one of these because it's full of your faves!

Off to another day here - thankfully NM is looking up weatherwise and will be hitting 70s the next few days, thank God!

Happy eating, you lovely foodies/runners!

Running in the Wind = So Not Fun

2010-04-06T12:23:00.003-06:00

Today, I am supposed to do 7-9 hill repeats. I actually love hill repeats because it shakes things up a little bit and allows me to get away from regular old sprints on flats. However, New Mexico is currently in its "windy season". We are looking at wind speeds of up to 50 mph today. Not sure if I really want to get out and run hills in that, with the BOB and a 20lb child to top things off. What to do? Mike is meeting for a track workout with the "group" at 5:30pm...maybe I'll head to that instead...granted...the wind is still a factor there too soooo....TM it is maybe! Booo. I am so ready for summer.

Easter Sunday all three of us went out for a run, Mike with the BOB, me solo (yes!). It seemed to be nice and sunny and calm, but 10 minutes into the run it just became a blustery mess. It was like running against freakin' hurricane winds. We managed about an hour and 10 minutes. Not sure on the distance, but I am thinking at least 6 miles. Pretty much an all up hill run (we ran to his mom's and had her drive us home, LOL. She thinks we're nuts). Calves actually tightened up for me, which never happens. Kinda nice.

Yesterday was just cross-training. Twenty minutes on the stair climber and 30 minutes on the elliptical. Today I'll shoot for the RW Core Workout and then make a decision about this speedwork that I must accomplish.

On a different note, my child is sitting here continually hitting his head on the coffee table. I swear he's going to be brain-dead by the time he's 1 yr old...guh.

Repairing Diastasis Recti After Pregnancy

2010-04-06T11:48:00.004-06:00

Diastasis Recti. Many pregnant women suffer from this, "this" being abdominal separation. Apparently I had a little bit of it myself, showing up around my 5th or 6th month of pregnancy. My Dr. acted like it was nothing and that I would recover easily from it. He did say, though, that women who have tight abs before they get pregnant are more apt to suffer from diastasis simply because their abs aren't used to being stretched out. Well what the heck, I get punished because I'm in shape and have slammin' abs? How unfair is that? Regardless, I seem to be on the mends, with only a little bit of protrusion in my upper abs that I notice when I crunch up from a laying-down position on the floor. Kinda NOT cool, but it just comes with the territory I guess.

Below is one video of several on the RunnersWorld website. Click on it to watch it, and if you go here :

http://www.runnersworld.com/video/1,8052,s6-6-0-2,00.html?ext=Y&videolink=http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1243489102/bclid6520547001/bctid6541535001

...you can see the other related videos in the sidebar that compile the Core Values Workout. Get going on these exercises at least a couple weeks after birth, and you can start to zip those abs back up. Remember, though, it took 9 months to stretch those muscles out so it may take a few months to get them back!

25 Things You May Not Know About Me

2010-04-04T11:53:00.004-06:00

Some of you know me well, others of you don't. So here's 25 things that will let you in on the life of Lisbet. (Trust me, there's a lot more but this is the short list).

1 - My parents are still married (to each other, yes).

2 - I have one brother, Erik, who is now 22.

3 - I grew up in Princeton, Massachusetts and lived there for 23 years before moving to New Mexico (I am now 26).

4 - I was an NCAA All Conference ski racer at UMass - Amherst.

5 - We won Nationals in 2003, Regionals in 2004 - yes we beat the 28 year old imports from Sweden.

6 - It was (one of) the best times of my life.

7 - I figure skated competitively for 10 years.

8 - I had to stop because I fractured my back.

9 - Then I heavily devoted myself to ski racing (which I had also been doing while skating).

10 - I had four majors in college and still graduated in 4 years.

11 - I started running longer and doing triathlons after college - when I met my now husband.

12 - I love being competitive in any sport that I do.

13 - I thought I wouldn't have kids until at least my late 20s, and am so happy I had my first earlier!

14 - I like to think I have a slightly earthy/crunchy style.

15 - My husband thinks that's "dirty."

16 - I like classic rock.

17 - I ran and swam up until the day before I had Logan.

18 - People have asked me if I am a sports model - I think that would be pretty cool if I was!

19 - I have skiied in the Swiss Alps with the like of Norwegian, Italian and Finnish National Teams.

20 - I was born with black hair, and after it fell out and grew back it has always been blonde.

21 - My mom is 100% Swedish.

22 - I don't know if I ever want to do an Ironman (but my husband already is one).

23 - I wish I had more time to read.

24 - I love love love to cook food!

25 - I do not have a Blackberry, iPhone, or whatever else those smart phones are...

Of course, I could go on and on...but I will spare you. I am a pretty interesting person, though, if I do say so myself. Ha.

Anyway, this is a wonderful Easter day here! About 70 degrees and sunny, so it's about time to take the little guy out in the BOB. I really realllllyyy need to get in a long run before this half marathon in two weeks...but not sure how far I'll go today with the kiddo. I'm thinking this race will be faster than last race seeing as I weigh less then I did a few months ago...sooo crossing my fingers! I don't have a goal time really...but 1:55 would be nice, and I think I can do that easily.

And Guess Where I'm Going on Vaca!?

2010-04-02T10:25:00.004-06:00

Are you ready for this? GUESS where I am going on June 4th-11th. Just guess. Okay the photo above may give it away a little...BERMUDA! A cruise from Boston to Bermuda! NICE!!!! (well, we have to fly from NM to Boston, which kinda isn't cool but whatev) This will be me and Mike's first vaca together that isn't related to some running race/triathlon. Just sheer relaxation and the ability to do whatever we want. So this means I have to buckle down and get myself bikin ready! Might have to invest in a new one, seeing as most of mine hail from about 5 years ago and are unraveling. The fact that I am gearing up for my 1/2 marathon on April 17th, tri on may 2nd, and 10K on May 10th...I should be in good shape. Well, better shape I guess. Like super svelte. Haha. So, things on the "Bermuda Cruise To-Do List" are as follows:

- go snorkeling
- lay on the beach
- drink too many pina coladas
- eat too much food on the ship
- get a stellar tan (while wearing spf 30, mind you)

I will add more, I am sure. But for now I am just pumped to THINK about going! YES!

Running Faster After Pregnancy

2010-04-01T11:51:00.003-06:00

So it's been a while since I posted anything huh? I wish I could really streamline this blog, but I have so many ideas and things I like to do that, well...I have a hard time focusing on just ONE thing. Not sure what to do on that - what are people most interested in? My active life? My running/working out etc? And all being done with a baby? And eventually another baby some day? (yes, we do want another bambino). Let me know your thoughts...what do people like to read about here?

So....what is this talk about women getting faster after pregnancy? Is it true? I feel like it is, because recently I have been feeling REALLY good while running. Is there really any scientific evidence? I dunno...they claim increased blood flow is like blood doping, but I am almost 9 months PP, so is that really the factor here? Perhaps it's the mentality women have after having childrem that helps them become better athletes. We probably have a more sound mind, better discipline, and realize that yes we CAN and WILL finish this race and that we've done harder things (especially those of us who had longer/more difficult labors, maybe?) This blog, tighthams.wordpress.com by Alix J. Shutello, touches on running before, during and after pregnancy so take a look. Some good info, things a lot of us know, and some great inspiration.

In the end, though, I run and think about a lot of things...like Logan. And it puts a smile on my face. That in itself makes me run faster than anything.

Revel in the Simple Aspects of Life

2010-03-03T20:25:00.004-07:00

Don't have much to say here...just goin' through the daily grind as usual. Yey for tomorrow being Thursday already.

Logan is just about ready to start crawling, although I feel like he's been ready for that for a few weeks now. He seems more interested in grabbing onto things and pulling himself up (or trying to). But still, I'll be in for it very soon when he no longer stays in a 10 square foot radius. He is getting so big! He seems different - acting/looking...everything. Silly little guy just plays and sits in his crib now and when I go in there in the AM (if I'm not waking him up to go to daycare), he is sitting there waiting for me! With a cute little smile saying "Morning Momma!" Unless he's hungry and pissed, and in that case he is crying, but still smiles when he realizes I am there to pick him up.

It's really amazing that this little person is growing and changing and I love that I get to see it all...and just watch in awe as he discovers new little things. What's funny is his personality is coming out, but when I look back at pics and videos of when he was first born, I can see those little traits were there even then.

So let's revel in the simplicities of life that give us joy, and truly realize that these things are the most important of all.

A New Set of Earrings in my Etsy Shop

2010-02-15T12:24:00.002-07:00

I love coin pearls, I don't know what it is about them, but I am drawn to them. Pearls in general pique my interest, probably because no two are alike. Above is a set of classy earrings that are simple and totally my style. What do you think?

Valentine Flowers and My Loves

2010-02-15T12:19:00.001-07:00

Olympics and my BDAY!!!

2010-02-13T21:46:00.003-07:00

Hello alllll!

So I am sitting here typing with the tips of my fingernails. If there are typos, just deal with them, bc I am far too lazy to go back and edit this stuff. Yes, I got a manicure. Like a full-fledged full set of french tips put on. And guess what? I actually like it. Yep. I've had it done before and usually want them off two days later. Not this time, I am loving it. I figured, why not do something for myself? It makes me look niiiiiice hahaha. So there's some tap tapping over here when I type. Probably totally annoying to Mike who is sitting a foot away from me.

Anyway. Happy bday to me! Today was my bday, and I am a whopping, old 26. Oh MAN. I will tell you that I did not think I'd be where I am today, though. Married and with a 7 month old who is the BEST!!! I love it. Nothing could be better. I am telling you.

We are sitting watching the olympics, so I must go. Plus the pizaa in the oven is ready. Priorities, people.

:-)

Today's Music Just Doesn't Stack Up

2010-02-04T11:12:00.002-07:00

I'm listening to the Beatles. What kind of music do y'all like? I love the Beatles. I love most music from the 60s and into the 70s. I think this era produced, quite possibly, some of the best music ever made...and it is music that will continue in popularity for years on end. Music from those times talked a lot about what was going on in the world, as most music lyrics do, but good things were happening then. Lots of inspiration, discovery, and evolution within society...and people were seeking peace. Something that, presently, doesn't seem within reach. Now society is full of shmucks. "Who on earth do you think you are, a superstar..?" (John Lennon) Yep, we all think we're amazing. But anyway, back to my music preferences. I personally love the Beatles, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Allman Bros, Janis, and also some Marley...the list goes on. Any one else like music from this time? Maybe it brings back some nostalgia for the baby boomers...

Wedding Day Weekend

2010-01-31T21:03:00.004-07:00

Yesterday we were at a wedding up in Santa Fe. It was a looong day/night of partying, but a very well put-on wedding indeed. Logey came with us and he was a good boy the whole time. Danced up a storm with us :-) We ended up taking a cab back to the hotel because we were all three sheets to the wind. There were a couple keg-stands performed before we left, which probably didn't help our cause (I was not a part of this, oddly enough). Needless to say we were all a little banged up this AM, but I recovered quickly and even made it to the gym this afternoon for a quick workout. Just some biking and light lifting. But now it's bedtime; glad to be in the sack by 9PM. I'll be back to check in with more interesting life stories later on this week.

Expectations...

2010-01-19T18:41:00.003-07:00

What is with the world today? It seems to me that people's expectations of every one else are absolutely ludacris. We live in a "me" society, and it looks like we're all going to continue spiraling toward disaster. Here are a few main issues that I think are at the top of our demise as a society.

1 - Women expect to be able to do everything a man can do, thus, they think they don't need men to get married, have babies, make money, or share a house with.

2 - Children expect every one to do everything for them because they grew up in a generation where parents didn't make them work, paid for their college, and didn't put them out on their asses to learn how to pay rent and buy TP for themselves.

3 - Adults, in general, expect their mates to be "perfect". People have a " desires list" when they date people, and if the boy/girl doesn't stack up? Well, on to the next imperfect victim!

3a. - Because of 3, above, people divorce like it's a sport. Whatever happened to sticking it out and accepting minor differences as part of someone's individual character?

My thoughts come about from a lot of reading I've been doing about being happy in a marriage. This doesn't mean that my marriage is in trouble...I just figured it couldn't help to get some pointers from actual "doctors", right? I mean, we can always work on things. Even if I get one little tid bit from a book that will help my marriage continue down a positive path, then that's success enough for me.

What do you think about all of our current expectations? Are we out of line? Are we entitled? Or are we all just spoiled brats?

To be, or not to be, the size of a house?

2010-01-14T16:35:00.003-07:00

So I am supposed to go to the gym now. (Supposed...?) Picked up Loge-meister from daycare and came back to the homestead for a bite to eat, and now I need to get my ass to the gym. It has been a month since I ran the 1/2...and to be honest I haven't done much running since. Time to get back on the train. I mean, a mile on the 'mill doesn't count I guess sooo....yeah. I want to get all ripped and in awesome shape and wooooo! Yeah. Still have some excess "stuff" on my belly. Just enough to annoy me. I haven't been trying all that hard in the eating department, meaning, I eat everything in sight. It's a terrible problem I have. But I love food so what can I say? Ah well, 6 months after having a baby and I'm in all my old clothes and look pretty damn near normal. Here's a plus: I still weigh less than I did in college when I was friggin' power-lifting for the ski team. At least I'm not lookin' like the house I was then. Well, not really a house... but still.

Guess I'll feed this child (the other, um, child) and gather him up to go play with his girlfriends at the gym while I hop on the running machine for a while.

:-)

New England Snow and a Growing Baby...

2010-01-10T20:48:00.002-07:00

Holidays are OVAAAHHH, thank GOD

2010-01-08T22:12:00.002-07:00

Holy hell people. Why didn't any one tell me that, once you get married, there is a whoooole new family dynamic. I will not discuss this in length, as it stresses me out to even think about the shenanigans that went on over the holidays dealing with every one's mom, dad, grandma, bro, sis, bro in law, sis in law, great granparents, cats, dogs, spouse, child, AHHH!!! The insanity! Bottom line - I am glad to be back in NM. Back to life, back to work, back to normalcy...whatever that may be.

Logey is getting a a bottom front tooth...drooling and chewing on anything in sight like a friggin' maniac. He's hoovering baby food like nobody's businaaaazzz; if he ends up eating like his dad then I'm in for it. I'll have two elephants eating me out of house.

I started lifting some more weights now that I am taking a few weeks off of this whole running thing. It's nice. Maybe it'll help my ass spring back up. Hehe.

We got a damn fish tank, oh wait I mean Mike did (for Logan). I thought it was silly, but he (Loge) loves it. He practically gave himself a concussion from smacking his face into it.

I ate so much sushi tonight it's ridiculous. Love those spider rolls.

I'm knitting a scarf...I am so talented.

All random thoughts are gone...I'm wiped.

First Big Running Race After Baby

2009-12-14T22:21:00.004-07:00

This past weekend was my first half marathon after having Logan. Exactly 5 months later! He did not come with us (tear) and stayed with the Mike's mom instead. I missed him like crazy, but it was great to get away for a while. It was in Tucson...I had never been there but it seemed nice! We weren't really there long enough to do anything, but the scenery was beautiful. Apparantley it's one of the
most beautiful marathons in the country.

Aaaanyway...the race was mainly downhill and is a pretty popular Boston qualifier because of this. I'll admit, I didn't really train all that well...missed some key workouts and long runs. Whatever, I still kicked more ass than I thought I would! I avg'd 9:06 min. miles...I was originally hoping for 9:15s and thought even that was pushing it. But, as always, race day for me is always different, meaning, I run way faster than I anticipate! Maybe I don't give myself enough credit, or maybe I just don't train as hard as a could. Who the hell knows.

We started at 7am (ummm hello?) which was way too freaking early. We drove into Tucson (miserable 7 hr drive booo) and so I was still tired from that, and from lack of sleep even without baby in town. I just kept waking up expecting to hear a little Logey crying. The bused dropped us off at our start, and we didn't even get to wait in the bus. They just kicked us out into the cold and sid have fun! At least there were heaters set up outside, even though you couldn't find a spot close enough to warm your behind. Damn Tucson natives are babies to the cold. As usual, the lines for the porta potties were endless. I managed to pee once using the "facility"...and then had to go again (damn coffee...). So, since there was a fence pretty much every where you turned, we all just popped squats next to each other. Pretty funny actually...a group of women huddles together peeing, a guy coming up and seeing us and pretending he saw nothing and discreetley turning to pee on his own...ah the comeraderie....

Once we got running the sun came up. I got to about mile 10 before I started to hurt a tad...but no biggie. I know I started out slow the first half, and really gased it the second half. I passed numbers of people at the end...if only I had run that fast the whole way. Not all that upset, however, since I started with no warmup and fuuuhhhreeeezing. Maybe next time I'll warm up and have some better training under my belt. All I know is that when I turned the corner and saw the clock, I was so freakin' excited to see 1:59! Wasn't expecting that! For those of you wondering, I do not wear a watch. Ever. It makes me anxious and causes me to backfire. I prefer to run based on how I feel, not on the numbers I see. It has always worked better for me.

Anywho, great race, great weekend! Totally pumped.

See y'all next time.

Starting to run faster...

2009-12-03T23:39:00.004-07:00

Heyyyy there. So, I'm amping up for my 1/2 Mary next Sunday (hahah, "amping" up, funny). I'm not totally ready nor trained well enough. Not until the last couple months was I able to get into it and really feel like I was improving and getting faster. Drrr. Guess that comes with losing weight and getting used to having a baby around. Anyway, so I am just now starting to get faster, but unfortunately the race is almost upon me sooo I will just have to suck it up and run my best! Maybe in the spring I will find another 1/2 to do and see how that goes? I mean, I will have the base so it should go better than this one did.

Also, going home for X-mas soon! Yey! Really excited! I still call it home, mostly bc I have called it home for 25 yrs...so why stop now? Things are great here, Mike and I are really enjoying Logan and the holiday season. I'm going to get us skiing more this year, and get my parents out here to ski Taos and Angelfire. Should be awesome!

Alright it's so damn late, what am I doing up? Goodnight all have a great weekend.

Sleep? What's that?

2009-11-24T08:14:00.002-07:00

So, it's been 2-3 weeks now of baby not sleeping at all during the night. He wakes up numerous times a night. At first I thought it was because he was stuck on his belly and couldn't move, because he isn't always hungry. But then sometimes I end up feeding him because nothing will calm him down. A few times I have fallen asleep with him on my shoulder in the rocking chair...has he become one of those kids that needs to be picked up all the time? I hope not! Maybe he's teething...? All I know is I am walking around like a zombie. AHHH! I can't imagine going to work like this, and I'm not quite sure what I'll do once I do go back probably starting in December.

Wouldn't it be nice if we were all celebs and could hire a full-time nanny to feed our babies and get up in the middle of the night with them? No wonder people like Heidi Klum and Jessica Alba look so refreshed and make it all look so easy. BOOOOOOO. No fair.

Early Christmas Decorating

2009-11-16T08:39:00.002-07:00

Like I said, I already started decorating for X-mas...

Since we don't do Thanksgiving at our house there is no reason for me to have T-Giving stuff out, right?

Plus...for this year...I want to get into the festive mood early. I am looking forward to going to Mass. for X-mas so I'm overly excited in general...

Sunday is for relaxing, and long runs? Uhhh...

2009-11-15T09:48:00.004-07:00

Hey all. So, this is a nice Sunday morning. Had the usual wake-ups last night what with Logan rolling onto his belly and getting stuck, and then needing to eat around 2:30am...then Mike's alarm blairing at 5am and waking ALL of us up. He's really got to figure something else out...or at least turn that thing down. So, Mike got up and went for a 20 mile run and I am just hanging out here! It's cold out there; he must be miserable! AAAND it even snowed a little bit last night, yeyyy! Love it.

I started some Christmas decorating already, but I don't think it's too early because it will be here before we know it! We have a busy December: a trip to Tucson, a trip to Vegas, and a trip back east for the holidays. AGGH. So much. Maybe I can finagle my way out of one of them? I wanted to be rested and relaxed for the trip home but that might not happen...oh well. Tucson is the 1/2 marathon for me and marathon for Mike. I'm really dragging in my training. It's just so boring to run for longer than an hour by yourself, ya know? I could do speed work any day as it is variable and quicker than a long run...those long runs kill me with boredom...which is why I have been slacking on them. I really need to get a few more of them in before the race. The thing is, I know I can run the 13.1 just fine. And not at a bad pace either. At this point, though, I am not in good enough shape to get anywhere near my PR (1:47), so even if I really push it in my training I will only take off a couple seconds, maybe. Basically, I am just doing this to get in shape and finish the race etc etc. I don't have the base down to run much faster. Maybe in the spring I'll be ready to try and close in on that PR. We'll see.

New necklace above is at my shop. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34536938 (something is wrong with my link thing? Hmm I don't know.)

Have a great Sunday :-)

Men are babies!

2009-11-14T15:41:00.004-07:00

So, this is a funny video about a guy going through the same pain as a woman in labor. It's not really the same...seeing as most first-time moms are in labor wayyy longer than he is. He gets the general idea, though, and the fact that he doesn't want to go on shows men are babies! Hahaha!

Running, Dogs, Worry-Mom

2009-11-11T08:47:00.008-07:00

What's up my friends? I made some curtains out of some red french toile, oohhh I love french toile, they came out pretty good! Pics are above. Oh, and some other picture of me doing a tree-pose. I'm not even into yoga? It's too slow for me, I get bored. Anywho.

So I did a 4 by 1 mile repeat workout yesterday, and my legs hurt. I didn't finish it due to stomach cramping - I cut my cool down short. I didn't do so badly, actually, I'm finally starting to be able to run a weeee bit faster without being in immense pain lol! I'm also down in weight, which is cool. Hopefully that will keep coming off, but for now, I am pretty happy with where I'm at!

I was thinking about something, and thought I'd ask...does becoming a mom make you a worry-wart? For exmaple, Logan will be laying on the floor and the dogs will come galavanting into the house and I will jump and lunge in front of L so he doesn't get trampled. Before, I probably would have just said "meeehhh he's fine! needs a bump or two!". Now? Not so much. I am like, "STOP THE DOGS. OMG!!!!" Have I lost my mind? Granted, our bigger dog does weigh about 90 lbs...now that could do some damage.

Ah...trials and tribs of feeding a baby.

2009-11-08T23:01:00.002-07:00

How funny is this video? Things to look forward to. Love it. Hahahaha.

Subbing and Oral Fixations

2009-11-05T09:12:00.004-07:00

Hey all I haven't been around this week really, been busy. So, not that any of you care, but we FINALLY got internet and a home phone here - we were stealing internet from the neighbors and it hardly ever worked properly. It took me forever to upload pics, download songs, and do pretty much anything. So, now we're like a normal household! WOW!

Oh, and guess what?! I am so happy, I am going to substitute teach for Albuquerque Public Schools! I applied in hopes I would get the job, but didn't really have my heart set on it because APS is a HUGE district, and there are a LOT of teachers, so it would have been easy for me to fall through the cracks. However, something must have caught their eye because I'm going in for orientation next week! It's a great gig because I can do do it part time - but now I am looking for day care for L. There's always this issue of how expensive it is and if it's worth it...but I am going to see a place this morning where the girl gave me a reasonable price and she sounded nice. So we'll go check it all out and see if it's doable. After numerous calculations I have concluded that I will indeed be making money and not putting ourselves in the hole (like I hear what happens to many moms who go back to work...) So that's good right? Maybe some money to actually DO stuff with, and buy myself some new jeans considering I wear the same pair every day. Jeans with a hole in the crotch probably aren't acceptable dress code...

Alright, time to get on the wagon for the day. Logan is sitting in his infant chair watching me, with his fingers/hands/fists shoved down his throat. I swear to god, this kid maybe goes 5 minutes a day with his hands out of his mouth. The rest of the time it's this weird and ridiculous oral fixation. He basically doesn't use the binkie any more. Any one else have experience with this? I guess it's normal, but it's still odd.

Have a great Thursday. Get decorating for Thanksgiving! I kind of skip all that and go straight to Christmas...what? I like it.

Nothing to say Friday

2009-10-30T08:49:00.004-06:00

I have nothing to say today. Don't know why. Just been one of those weeks. Not a bad week, just another week. Just another week in the life of a growing baby, a house that needs cleaning, a dishwasher to be emptied, errands to be run...you know how it goes. It snowed here in New Mexico which is crazy. That is something I miss so much about New England. I love gray days when the snow falls down and blankets the ground and trees. We're going home for Christmas, so hopefully there will be some white stuff then. Halloween is Saturday. Ya know, I don't even like Halloween now that I am older (wow, like 25 is that old). What I mean is, it was fun dressing up in crazy (barely there?) costumes in college, but not I just think it's a nuisance to keep opening the door for kids who just want more candy so that they can just be more off the wall and get even MORE fat (wow, that was mean). Plus, our dogs go nuts every time someone knocks on our door. Oh well. Lord knows we have many more years of Halloween to participate in. For now, we can get away with dressing the squirt up in costumes that he doesn't care much about.

Have a lovely weekend, Halloween, etc!

New Etsy Jewels on a New Monday

2009-10-26T15:40:00.007-06:00

I finally got some pictures uploaded of new jewelry. They'll soon be listed in my shop - so watch out for them. It's hard to get things done around here with (two) males taking up most of my time. Yikes. What will life be like when Logan is big? I'm scared to even think about it. That's not even factoring in the probability of us having another kid. OHHH MAN. AHHH!

Anywhooo, look below for some new stuff. I'm trying to get inventory up for Christmas! Watcha think?

Alllright, so, it's almost an end to another Monday. :::sigh::: I got away with sitting here in silence while baby slept - I think he was catching up on a couple days of wakefulness and crabiness! Were both men in my life crabby this weekend? Ummm kinda. Yet another :::sigh::: I'm still riding my happy wave as best as I can, though! I hope you all have a great week. We'll catch back up soon.

Lisbet

Time to Simplify Life

2009-10-24T09:06:00.005-06:00

Cafes line the streets in Copenhagen...that's right up my alley.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark is pretty trendy - my friend dresses like this in the States, and sometimes turns some heads in confusion.

I am on a happy kick, aren't I? I swear, I will get back to posting my newest jewelry tomorrow, but I have a busy day today before we go to a football game. Sooo, I was watching Oprah today, a re-run (that I am able to record with DirectTv, LOVE it!), and she was talking about different places around the world. What really drew me in was her trip to Copenhagen, where the "happiest people on earth live" statistically. Now, I don't know if you all like Oprah or not, and I do think that she is on a little bit of a power trip, but I watch her nonetheless.

So, Denmark is a happy place. Health care and school are paid for, students are paid to go to University, women get 6 months to a year of maternity leave. People are out of work between 4 and 5 to have family time because that is of great importance to them. If you lose your job the government helps you find another one. Hmmm. Sounds like the opposite of America. No wonder they're all happy!

I think a lot of places in Europe are happy. It used to be that the States were the place to be, but I'm not so sure that's the case anymore. I have a friend who is Danish, and she travels to Denmark frequently. No wonder she is pretty happy, loves coffee, and enjoys her studies (currently looking to be a nurse). They simplify life over there - less things, less space, more LIFE!

Do you guys agree that "over there" seems like a great place to reside? Or do you think it's ludacris that they don't pay for school, healthcare, etc? It sounds appealing to me.

10 things that make me happy

2009-10-23T09:03:00.008-06:00

Someone suggested I do this - it's always nice to see what makes other people happy. Maybe it will help you remember what makes YOU happy!

1. Being creative - using my hands to do anything, whether it is drawing, painting, decorating...basically creating anything.

2. Fall - I love the colors of the fall, especially in New England. The leaves turn anywhere from red, to orange, to yellow...

3. A good book - there's nothing like relaxing (if you can find the time) with a good read...

4. Swedish Christmas - I grew up with a Swedish Christmas Eve. I love the food, the rustic decorations, the Akvavit. It's an awesome celebration of life and people.

5. A Summer Swim - Diving into a cold lake, pool, pond in the summer is one of the best things in the world. Refreshing and fun...try to act like a kid again.

6. Ski Resorts - Is there anything better than shacking up in a hotel/cabin, using an outdoor pool, going skiing, staying cozy...all while other people clean your room and serve you food? I think not.

7. Wine with Mom and Gummie - Although I can't do it anymore, I love sitting outside in the summer, or inside in the winter, and having a glass of wine with my mom and grandmother. No better way for three generations to get together and talk.

8. Hot Chocolate - A hot mug of hot cocoa on a cold afternoon is always special, if you make it that way.

9. White snowy mountains - I love driving up and into huge, snow-topped mountains. It's breathtaking and somehow makes me feel at home.

10. Breaking a good sweat - getting out and releasing stress, feeling strong, and sweating a little (or a lot) is key to my happiness.

What makes you happy? Think about it, and maybe create your own list. It's funny how really simple things make you happy. I think we need to focus on the smaller things, stop racing through life, and live with more fulfillment from the little things around us.

New Jewelry in Etsy Shop

2009-10-21T13:29:00.005-06:00

Thanks for all the comments, emails, suggestions from my last post. I really was/am at a crossroads. I guess it's tough, and sometimes I don't give myself any credit. It's hard when you live with someone (a guy...?) who doesn't always understand. All men are different, some more sympathetic than others...such is life. Just roll with the punches, I guess. I did like Grove's idea of childcare...that's something to think about. Oh, and Grove my email is Lloiselle84@gmail.com - send me your address so I can send you the book.

Rainy here in NM, which is great because we never get any! I have a new jewelry set for you all to check out. It's here in my shop. The necklace is pictured below, you can see the earrings in my Etsy shop.
Ohhh wow. This will be short, funny how babies don't want you to do anything that means not paying attention to THEM. Someone is crying my name, lol.

See ya!

Work and Daycare? Or not?

2009-10-20T15:19:00.004-06:00

Just a pic of Logan and dad at Tent Rock

Hello people! I forgot to post the winner of the giveaway yesterday - probably because only two people responded. Hahahaha, sooo the winner is GroveDesigns Co! Yeyyy! You'll be getting a free book in the mail - I will need to get your address. :-)

Thanks for the comments the other day on my breakdown...it bled into today as well. Agghh. Logan is 3 months old, for those of you who asked. Here is the latest dilemma. I am not working yet, but I am wondering if I should even look for a job in the first place? I know that with me working, my paycheck (probably the entire thing) would end up going toward daycare or a babysitter. So, we will end up in the same spot we are now, financially. I am currently looking to work from home by designing jewelry and doing some freelance writing. Me being at home seems like the better idea, but the husband doesn't think so. I don't think he gets that we'd gain nothing from me being out of the house, except for some "me" time, which I can easily find by heading to the gym or dropping Logan off at the in-laws. If anything, we'd probably ultimately be making LESS money if we sent him to daycare. What are your thoughts? How should I approach this debate with the spouse? I'm having a really hard time figuring things out!

An end to a weekend, running and fatigue

2009-10-18T22:08:00.005-06:00

some art today from an Etsy artist

I had a breakdown today. Who knows why. Oh, maybe because I'm tired? Why am I SO tired? I really dont know why. I am making new jewelry, writing new articles for some websites I write for, training for a race, and trying to get through every day. Yet, still I feel messed up. I'm sad, I'm mad, I cry, I yell...is this all post-partum junk? Because really, I'm tired of it, people. Please tell me that it will end. I know I'm not nuts, but I need to get a grip. Things will beeeee ok. Anywho, I'm here watching HGTV, hubbyooo fell asleep watching football (is any Sunday any different?). I hope you all had a great weekend. Tomorrow is another day. Some inspiration for your life is above...

Speaking of today, Mike ran the Duke City 1/2 Marathon today for fun, and ran a 1:29:02. Yeyyy! A NM PR, the altitude has killed him since we moved here, but he finally ran really well, and is stoked for our race in Tucson in Dec. He's doing the full and I'm doing the 1/2. Only reason he's doing the full is to qualify for the Boston Marathon again, but me? Ha, the 1/2 is just enough for post-baby. Maybe a full is in the cards for later on...

Evening Without the Boys

2009-10-17T18:45:00.002-06:00

I escaped my house. It is saturday night, and I have left the boys at home. We got home from doing "errands" all day, more like driving aimlessly around until my back was stiff and I was overly cranky. I got home, went for a run, took a shower, and informed Mike that I was going to go out for a while. He didn't protest so I grabbed my computer and ran. Sometimes I just need to get away. Every now and again I feel a little claustrophobic. I've had a headache lately. Kind of anxious for no apparent reason. I sometimes wonder what it would be like to be single again. Meaning, no significant other, no baby, no in-laws up the road...I would be free to do anything?! I don't think you ever really realize the freedom you have until you have another little being depending on you. No more stopping by the gym because I happen to be out, no more spontaneous outtings to go hike up the mountain, no more reading a book in peace. This doesn't mean I am unhappy, it is just interesting to think about. A couple hours to myself, like tonight, is like gold. I can think without worrying when the baby will start to get antsy, or that the bathroom should really get cleaned, or why why WHY do men (or just mine?) forget how to do their own laundry.

Okay, aside from all that, I am relishing in this free time. It makes me so much happier to go home and see my smiling baby who is getting pudgier by the day. Life isn't bad. Life has gotten more complex, thus requiring special time for myself. If I don't alot such time, I'd lose my marbles. So, if any can relate to this, get some time to yourself before you go off your rocker for some little insignificant thing. Sounds silly but it's SO important!

Friday Art and Jewelry Photos

2009-10-16T15:49:00.007-06:00

A recent painting of mine...

Another painting by yours truly...

A print from a lovely Etsian...

My latest necklace...

Have a great weekend my friends, be happy, be healthy.

New Four-Strand Necklace

2009-10-14T11:35:00.004-06:00

This is a new necklace I managed to get done even with all of our company around. Now, they are gone, and hopefully I will be able to get more work done! The necklace is available in my shop - have a look! Do you like the glass? I personally think glass is great to work with because it catches light beautifully...and we all like a little sparkle, don't we?

Nora Roberts Book Giveaway.

2009-10-14T08:38:00.008-06:00

On this insignificant Wednesday, I have decided to do a giveaway. Do you all like books? I love books! And I need some new (great) ones to read! SO. Why not a giveaway? I'm going to present a fluffy, romantic, mindless book this time. A Nora Roberts book. Her books are great for a quick and fun read, as they are nothing deep and thought provoking (except for maybe unrealistic romantic thoughts since you know your husband or significant other won't be literally sweeping you off your feet any time soon). Anyway, it's called Vision in White and you can read about it HERE to get the gist of what it's about. If you're interested in it, just post a comment with your favorite book OR author. (I'm going to do something with all the books/authors you suggest - create a mini bookstore for us all to browse :-0) I'll let this run for 4 days, and then announce the winner on Monday morning.

Yeyyy for lovey dovey books. Next time I'll choose something intellectual.

some morning joe and paper...

in bed...

....with baby...

Have a happy day ~

Lisbet

Quick wknd check-in

2009-10-11T10:23:00.007-06:00

Hi there! This is what we've been doing over the past few days...no time to talk to now but I'll be back soon once all our guests are gone.

Pretty Glass and Crystals

2009-10-09T12:36:00.006-06:00

A shot of the aspens ~ from our weekend in Angelfire, NM

Afternoon all! It's a beautiful day here in NM. I had some free time to myself this morning because our visitors went up to the hot springs, so I was able to work on new jewelry and and do a bit of laundry. In a while I'll scoop our little man up and head to the gym. I didn't get my workout in yesterday due to our guests...okay it's not their fault but I am going to blame them anyway. We went up to Santa Fe and ate and drank (wine) instead. Not so bad, right? Well I'm back on the wagon today, and here is my latest...

it's here in my Etsy shop now....!

And I was tinkering around and came across these cute earrings ~ dainty and light, they look like they'd be great for everyday wear! Don't ya agree?

Alright, have great weekend all!

Icey Jewels

2009-10-06T15:53:00.002-06:00

Something new...in my shop.

Ummmmm some Momversation video blabber

2009-10-06T15:44:00.000-06:00

Found this interesting video on Momversation. (Love those ladies over there). How to prepare for a 2nd child. Not that we're thinking of that right now, but it will happen eventually. I'm good with one, for now. Anyhow, check it out.

Post from yesterday, interrupted by hurricane (Mike) arriving home

2009-10-05T18:45:00.004-06:00

Sleep, where did you go? I had you for a few nights, and you went away. Oh sleep, I miss you so. I've never missed something so much as you, sleep. But it's alright, I can live, as many others before me have. I'll continue on my merry way, and maybe someday you'll pop on over again. In the meantime, baby Logan is full-bellied and happy and sleepy himself, and that is all I could really ask for. Rather that than a cranky, sleepless, colicky baby, right?

I headed to the gym with the little guy for a quick 3 mile run and a shortened power-hour. (Haha, power-hour is what Mike and I used to do when we were single and childless; an all out lift seshhhh for an hour. These days? More like a power-half hour.) I still have separation issues when I bring him to the daycare. I left him there today and walked out, closed the door, and stood behind it looking back in on him...as if I really needed to double check? It's not like he was going anywhere, or the certified babysitter ladies were going to run out the back door with him. I'll get over it, I swear. Especially when he hits his own separation anxiety thing at about 6-8 months or so, I hear.

My workout was good, but I am totally exhausted and not sure why. I didn't kick my butt too much, so who knows. My body has been rebelling lately in many ways, so this is just a probable side-effect. Boooo.

Alright, time to eat before the (other) man gets home. Maybe I'll even get to watch something other than Monday night football for a little bit here.

Have a good one ~ signing off.

New jewelry shtufffff, and running and babies, oh my!

2009-09-29T16:58:00.005-06:00

New items in my Etsy shop ~ have a look!

And on another note...I have to go do my track workout on the treadmill once Mike gets home. 3 by (800 by 600 by 600), 90 sec rest, 5 min. rest between sets. I actually don't mind these because I can get through 800s and 600s no problem. It's like, such a short period of intense work isn't so bad, right? Granted, after the first 800 I do have 8 more 800/600s to go. It's helping with my turnover, though, and I am running faster these days...finally! It's not such a struggle to get my legs chugging, as it was a few weeks ago. Wish me luck, I'll let you all know how it goes.

Aaaaand on yet another note - Logey is getting to be a big boy ;-) Dad's here saying, time to walk buddy! Now that's a scary thought...

Hope y'all had a great wknd! I'll be back to check in later this week...

Lisbet

Getaway Weekend

2009-09-25T08:23:00.005-06:00

Hey all. I've been busy all week so a little MIA. We are heading up to Angelfire this wknd for a fun wknd away. Mike needs a break from work, and I just want to see the leaves and run around up north! Really looking forward to taking Logey out for a run in the mtn area. We're staying in Mike's bosse's house which is B-E-A-utiful! Mind you, this is only one of the houses the guy has. He has two up in Durango, CO as well. I have yet to go up there but it is on the list.

Mike's sister arrived in town late last night and is staying at Gail's (the mom) house. She will get to see Logan for the first time! Before I know it it will be time to go home for X-Mas which will be great. I can't wait to see the whole family - and possibly some snow??

Things have been tense lately. Lack of sleep is catching up with me, and I'm acting a little like a jerk, but that doesn't let every one else off the hook. If anything, I could use some support and help. We all get through it and forget about it - but it is hard when it's happening. We need to find happiness somewhere, in the little things.

Oh, so I went to do my tempo run on the 'mill last night, and only got in 4.25 miles bc SOMEONE got cranky (hungry) in the daycare and started crying a bit. Of course, the second I went in there he was fine. But we left anyway bc I knew he would start squaking if I left again. The run was supposed to be 7.5 miles, so yeahhh. I'm trying to run it at my 9 min pace but, wow, I only was able to do 9:20. I know for a fact that this extra weight is slowing me down, so as I shed some lbs I should speed up. The lady on the treadmill next to me was like, "you were chuggin' along there still!" when the daycare lady came to get me. At least it looked like I was workin' hard! Haha!

Friday Picture

2009-09-18T17:19:00.003-06:00

~~~Ohhhh love these~~~

The Slow Runner

2009-09-16T14:50:00.003-06:00

Me and my chubbo

Our internet here DOES NOT WORK. Oh wait, is that because we are stealing it from the neighbors and have been for about 2.5 yrs (aka length of time we've lived here). It's finally taken the plunge, pulled the plug, whatever. So, if I can manage to grab a signal every now and again, I'm lucky. And you are all so lucky as well because you then hear from me :-)

I signed the kiddo up for daycare at the gym, so I'm finally able to go and workout on my own. Yeahhh no BOB! After 5 or so miles I get tired of pushing that thing. I did a workout on the 'mill last night - 5 by 1000s with 2 min rests. Too bad my pace was hovering around 9 minute miles. (HA! They were supposed to be at 10k pace! Or maybe that IS my 10k pace these days?) I'm slowly getting faster, but damnit it's not happening fast enough. It could possibly be the extra flab in my middle region keeping me back. Yep. I wish it would just vanish, like one morning I wake up and POOF! Flat belly. :::sigh::: No such luck will come, boooo. I'll head out and run 4 with the little man later today. Currently, I am searching for jobs...but hard to do when the internet drops the connection in the middle of sending emails. AGH.

This and That and Running and Pouting

2009-09-09T14:19:00.005-06:00

Hahahaha, I am a terrible mother. I actually waited for him to get uber pissed off so that I could take this picture. When he gets mad, he has a true pout. It's hilarious. Apparently he gets the lips from yours truly. Hmmm, I tried to show off my lower lip, can you see the resemblance? Hahaha.
So, I ran the 8.7 miles on Saturday and it was pretty good. I had track last night (actually, we are working on trails right now...) and that went alright. I get super discouraged because I just can't run that FAST! And I am breathing like I am ready to DIE at the end! We did 4 times around a .7 hilly loop...with an easy "cycle-like" run for the first .5, and then all out the last .2. Needless to say, I skipped the second loop, only completing three. I went out too hard the first time around, and not being very warmed up caused me to just fizzle out at the end. Booo. I think we should warm up more in the beginning because the actual workout ends up not being as advantageous as it should be. Perhaps I'm different than others, but it takes me a good mile or more to feel somewhat warmed up. Kinda sucks for others who don't feel like running a lot, but oh well.

Today I think I might set the bike up on the trainer and sit on that for a bit while baby sleeps (or cries or makes noise or whatever), and then 9AM tomorrow I'm going for an hour run with a couple ladies. Nice slow pace :-) I have to bring LM along in the BOB, so a slow pace will work out nicely.

Oh, and hope you all had a great Labor Day wknd. Mike and a couple friends ran the NM half, I was the designated cheering sqaud as usual. He did a 1:30, which is actually the fastest he's done out here in NM. Damn lack of air.

Fall in the Air...

2009-09-04T08:46:00.006-06:00

Combres and Toltec Train - NM

Pecos River, NM

Aspens in Northern NM

It's the end of the week...another week. It's true when they say the days are endless, but the weeks fly by. I'm sure "they" are right by saying that the years fly by, too...but I'm not at the point yet.

I am an emotional roller coaster these days. I bawl my eyes out reading silly forwards that people send me, and then find myself laughing at the little "coos" coming from the baby on the blanket on the floor, and then transition smoothly into immense anger...and then into loneliness...and at some point into the blues...who am I? I definitely feel lonely...not only from being home with a baby all the time, but because I miss my family and friends a lot. It comes in waves. I love it here, but then I sometimes wish I could stop by my parent's house or my Gummie's house...just to say hi or have a glass of wine. Overall, I think I miss the ease of having family members around so that we can just "swing by" to see each other. For now, though, we'll have to rely on planes and long trips and hours and hours of travel to see each other.

Boredom is creeping up on me lately. I feel a little claustrophobic in the house, and even when I get out it is a process including car seats and diaper bags and binkies...time to look for a job. Part time, but a job nonetheless. Anything to allow me to have some time away, feel like a person, have some money...

It's 66 degrees out and gorgeous...beautiful September weather is rolling in here in NM...finally. I'm ready for a change from the relentless heat.

Finding Inner Peace

2009-09-03T17:34:00.005-06:00

Daddy and his tummy-sleeping baby...

Nice smirk...

In thought...daydreaming of boobies...

I'm in no way, shape or form even THINKING of having another baby. No way. No time soon. Uh-uh. But...I can see why people end up thinking of having another one...

Downpour here today, I loved it. I finished my painting (which I'll post) and got a new sewing machine! Well, new to me. Mike's uncle had one from an ex-gf I think...and she didn't want it, so I got it! This means I have to learn how to sew, though. Beyond the hemming of pants. I wanna make me a dress! And Logie some jamies when he's older!

Now I get to go to the gym while Mike takes over parent-duty.

No Shit Today!

2009-09-01T12:20:00.002-06:00

You should have SEEN what came out of my son yesterday. I mean, it was like nothing I have ever ever ever laid my eyes on before. My husband asked if I took a picture of it, which sadly, I did not. This upset him because he wanted to view this astronomically huge bowel movement. It was actually more the consistency of mud, and bright orange. TMI? Sorry. Other moms will know what I am talking about. It exploded out of each corner of the diaper. That onesie is TOAST. And so is the changing table pad. Yikes. Amazing. I guess that's what builds up when ya don't go for a few days...hahahaha. I think he emptied himself out, though, because no such thing has happened yet today.

Another beautiful day here, so I'm gunna slap together a sandwich, wolf that down, and throw the little man in the stroller for a walk. No run just yet, because we have a group workout in the Sandia foothills tonight at 6pm. We just bring the boy in the BOB and Mike and I take turns running and watching him. The workouts are like track workouts, but are just done on trails. We'll see how it goes, I'm still kind of fast, but I get seriously winded pretty quickly. The other runners, who all happen to be slightly older, are a little slower but can finish the whole workout. I am not at that point yet...I should probably slow down and just finish the workout. Like last Friday night I joined some people for a swim workout, and totally did not finish the workout. They ended with a timed 500, and I had no desire to swim a fast 500. I was ruined just from fast 75s! HAHA. But swimming feels awesome, and I have noticed something!! I am a perfect floater now! Probably because of some, um, excess fat deposits I have spread throughout my body, but it is pretty funny. My legs and arms float now, which used to sink like rocks. I'm sure that'll go away as I lose some weight, but kinda cool that I can float around without working at it! Should just get a pina colada and call myself a floatation device.

I'll let ya know how the workout goes tonight...and wooowww. I know I say this EVERY time, but whenever I sit down to type, Logan starts screaming, and promptly stops when I finish up. Amazing. Til next time.

7 mile run tonight? Fine.

2009-08-31T16:46:00.002-06:00

So I have to run 7 miles tonight. My 1/2 marathon training started last Monday...and I totally skipped my long run (being 7-8 miles) yesterday. So now I'm stuck with it today. The husband is going to help a friend put in some floors in his new house, and his house just so happens to be 7 miles away. Yey for me! Haha. So, I guess that's what needs to be done. Lord knows it will be sloowww, with some walking thrown in there for sure. But whatever. I know I can do it, it will just be way slower than ever before. I don't actually WANT to do it, seeing as it's the end of the day and I'd rather just make some dinner and watch tv...but I'll be happy that I did it.

Anyway, it always seems that when I get on here to post something, the baby is suddenly hungry. So I must go stop him from his eating his hand, which is shoved pretty far into his mouth right now.

Just some updates - Saturday

2009-08-29T08:59:00.004-06:00

He's gettin' big!

Just sitting here drinking coffee while Dad is out for a fast run in preparation for the NM 1/2 Marathon next weekend...I'll go on my run when he returns...even though I so don't feel like going. But I WILL go just to get out of the house for a bit! By myself!

We have moved Logan to his crib in his room - wow, we have our room back! (kinda) He transitioned perfectly...no more fussing than usual :-) And his room is so close to ours I can easily hear him during the night so no monitor needed. I seem to wake up at every little noise these days, though.

Almost September! Which means a little cooler weather around here! Thank God... I am ready for it. It has just been way too hot, and with spending the hottest months here pregnant and uncomfortable, I am just ready for some cooler weather. But that means I might need to buy some new clothes to fit me, can't really get into my old jeans yet. Bleeeehhh.

6 week checkup

2009-08-26T17:05:00.002-06:00

I had my 6 week appt today...can't believe Logan is 6 weeks old. I feel like it was just a week ago! I am a tired lady today, and haven't been able to catch up on sleep with a nap. On the to do list tomorrow: nap. He's being a good boy today...slept the whole time I did some errands with MIL..blah blah. Anyway. I DO have to make sure I pick up my prescription for the mini-pill tomorrow and start it right away. Lord knows I don't want another baby just yet. My body is so out of wack I couldn't imagine getting pregnant. Yuck. So anyway, not much to say today.

Maybe I'll be more awake tomorrow.

Epiphany - relationships are hard work

2009-08-19T12:57:00.003-06:00

HAHA! Okay, so this was not really an epiphany, rather, something I felt like talking about today. Ya know, before I got pregnant my then bf (now husband) and I were just truckin' along having a little bit of a rocky road to say the least. BAM. I get pregnant, and life changes entirely. We are doing really well now, of course, but I do think about the ups and downs of relationships and how they work. I mean, not all couples stay together. And then there are those that are married for 50 years. I don't think that there is a soulmate for us all out there, definitely not! Life is not that spelled out. So, instead of worrying so much we should really just accept every one and take things a little more lightly. The person you marry isn't going to be PERFECT, HELLOOO! I don't know why we're all so uptight these days. People just want want want! And if they don't get what they want they are pissed off. So lame. Our society is reaching a new peak of selfishness. People want like, the perfect marriage and the perfect mate, but come on. Get a grip. All those men who have gotten married recently should be happy they found someone to marry them! Cuz lord knows that these days it's hard to find a good one (guy) out there...

Oh, and speaking of married life, I was talking to a friend about sex and marriage and how to make it more interesting. I mean, when you first meet someone and aren't living together the sex is exciting because you get all dolled up and blah blah. Not that people can't had great sex in marriage, but still, it is an amusing topic. (Remember, lighten up people!) Daphne's video below gave me a chuckle.

Hellooo Again - Losing weight after pregnancy

2009-08-18T12:18:00.004-06:00

Now, the first pic is me when I found out I was preggers, and then of course the second is when I was about 35 or 36 weeks. HOW do I get back to my BEFORE pic?! AHH!

So...as most of my friends can vouch for, I am a fitness freak. So, losing weight after this pregnancy is a maaaajor issue for me. Or should I say goal? Yeah, that sounds better. I gained a LOT of weight without really meaning to, and now I am stuck with about 15 lbs that I do NOT want. (Okay, I'd REALLY like to lose 20, but 15 is good for me right now). I am trying to come to terms with the fact that YES it will take a while, but alas, I am impatient. Number one thing I need to do is eat better. I think the main thing to make sure to do is keep fruit in the house. I always buy it, and then it is eaten up, and I don't go get more. This needs to become a regular thing. Also, exercise must become a regular thing. I found this great site where Arlene Pellicane offers tips and support to help us women lose weight! Of course a great way to exercise is to just stay active with your kids, such as, on a family vacation. Cute little clip about that here. She also has a great blog here.

Pic and Blog of the Day

2009-08-17T18:07:00.003-06:00

Pic of the Day

Blog of the day is Momalogues - she's witty and funny, deep and light.

Kids at a young age

2009-08-17T17:49:00.002-06:00

Okay, so, I'm not even a true "young mother" compared to some women out there. I don't think having a baby at 25 is all that young, but I will say that I am the only one out of ALL of my friends that has a baby. None of my girlfriends (and guy friends) can even say the word "relationship" let alone "marriage" and "baby". I mean really, they would drop dead. I find myself in a really odd state of transition. I can't really chat with my friends any more because all I can say is hey I just changed my kid's diaper and he pooped AGAIN! Ohhh and I'm doing the 18th load of laundry this week! Nice! So as I am trying to figure myself out and who I am...as well as keep this baby alive...my other friends are thinking about what to wear to the bar tonight.

Interesting momversation discussion here about the topic...take a look at the video, brings up some good points that I personally can relate to. I couldn't get the video embedded, so click on this link and scroll down to "Do you judge young mothers?"

Is being a mom enough?

2009-08-15T09:29:00.002-06:00

So, I watched this clip on mommyblog.net and I think it's interesting enough to bring up here. Is it okay to "just" be a mom? I don't think you can JUST be a mom. Being a mom is a job in itself, and women should be happy if they are stay-at-home moms. However, these days, it seems that when women are "just" moms they aren't respected nearly as much as moms who also have jobs. So, the question is: Is being a mommy enough?

I get to go somewhere by myself!!

2009-08-14T09:48:00.004-06:00

Ohhh I wanna go run on the beach! But guess I'm stuck on the treadmill today...

Guess what?!!! The grandparents just called and offered to watch Logan if I needed to go do a couple things! And, I totally took them up on it. Yesterday I tried to take him out and and we got to the bookstore and he decided he just didn't want to cooperate. I put him in his sling and he immediately started crying. So our ride down there was for nothing, because we just turned right around and came home. Boo. So, they offered to watch him and so now I am excitedly thinking of what I can do. Stop by the store, go to the bookstore like I planned...the GYM maybe? I haven't been to the gym alone in what seems like forever, but is really only a couple months actually....but STILL. SO excited. It's amazing the things you can squeeze in when you are only given a small amount of time.

Alright I have a baby to feed and pack up to head on out. Isn't it sad how this has just about made my Friday? Small pleasures in life, I tell you.

Babies DO learn to talk!

2009-08-10T17:03:00.004-06:00

My baby is figuring out he has a voice. Making squeaks and squaks and cries and grunts, all just for the hell of it. He had a mini crying fit earlier, and I found that the swing absolutely puts him to sleep. NOTHING would make him quiet down, and the second I put him in the swing and turned the "waves sounds" on, he conked out. Like magic I tell you. Wonderful. So mom was able to get a mini nap in herself today which was nice. We went to see daddy today to retrieve my wallet that I'd left in his car, and then went on a 2.5 mile jog/walk. Don't get all excited for me, it was a sloooow walk/jog. Yep. At least I am out there, though, right? Mike is working up a training plan for me (or I think he is...pretty sure he forgot about that...) for this 1/2 marathon. I was like, now hunny, take in to consideration that I JUST had a BABY. Like, pushed one out. Like, things aren't really back to normal yet, and my fitness level is ohhhh completely trashed. He'll be a good boy about that, I hope, and start off easy for me.

Haha. I just put Logan in his swing to type this out, and just looked over to see yet again, the Super Swing has done the trick. The guy is OUT. What is it about cheezy music and a mobile that goes round and round that really gets a kid sleepy? It's great. I love it.

Was able to get laundry, bed sheets changed, ktichen cleaned, and house swept and vacuumed this AM! Woooo! Wow, the new daily achievements that really get me excited have certainly changed drastically. I EVEN got into the shower and washed my hair?! While little man was conked in his swing after his crying bit, of course. It's amazing how fast you can do things when you have a little person around the house. I can't imagine what will happen when he starts crawling and walking, though, yikes.

Oh, check out this hilarious "mom blog". This lady just made my day, and I will totally read this when I need a laugh. Also, a "running mommy's blog"...which allows me to know I WILL run again! And that parenting is a sport!

Are you a mom? Here are the "50 best mom blogs"! Read 'em and weep...or laugh...whatever.

In this picture, I had no idea I'd be married with a baby in due time. Oh man. At least I look pretty darn cool.

Lazy Sunday

2009-08-09T17:03:00.008-06:00

I did NOTHING today! And I am okay with that. Tomorrow is a new day, and hopefully I will be a bit more rested from doing nothing today...even though I'll be up with the little guy tonight. But it's okay.

New fun stuff~~~
~~~will be up in my shop soon!

Have a great and relaxing Sunday!

Ohh, now I'm lonely again!

2009-08-05T11:36:00.007-06:00

Booo. My mom left today. It's nice to have the old routine back again, but now I am lonely and sad :-( You kind of get used to having someone in the house, and when they leave, it feels really empty and lonely. Logan and I will have to find things to do to keep us occupied! Walks are getting boring around here because it only takes about 1/2 an hour to get around our whole neighborhood. We'll have to find some new places to go. And I am working on getting his feedings into a certain routine...I want to try and have an idea of WHEN I will be feeding him. We'll see how that works out, babies just do what they do without caring about your schedule I guess.

I'm finally feeling a lot better. As far as how my body feels, I feel great. When I am tired I notice my body feels worse, which makes perfect sense. Also, I am trying to get a gallon of water (or liquids) in me each day: I am failing miserably. I took a used milk jug and fill it with water at the beginning of each day, and try and empty it by the end of the day. I'm getting only 2/3 of the way through if I am lucky. Really gotta get better about that.

Mom got some cute things for our house while she was here, take a look!Cute and colorful rug from Jackalope!

Decorative ladder from Jackalope!

Southwestern pillowcase - you guessed it - from Jackalope!

While she was here we sent out a package to my great Aunt - we sent her some of my handmade soaps, a handmade card, and I designed a new set of earrings for her. I actually ended up really liking them, so I will probably make more of them in varying coin pearls and different drops - maybe some briolettes.

What do you think?

Allllright, anyway, time to go. I have a hungry little man waiting for me.

~~Lisbet~~

Mom in Town

2009-07-29T16:03:00.006-06:00

My mother got in town yesterday! We're just hanging around, went for a walk today, she went grocery shopping, took naps, now we're making crispy lemon chicken for dinner. Yummyyyy. I'm glad she's here, I literally did nothing today! Well, meaning, I did not do any work around the house or go out for errands or work on jewelry. Just baby duty for me. Logan's life is so complicated - eating, sleeping, dirtying/wetting his diaper. What a rough life.

We were looking through jewelry on Etsy, and she was giving me ideas for business cards and tags. We might have my grandmother (a great artist, mind you) design me a new business card that matches my packaging a little better.

Not much for talking today, so I'll leave you with some colorful inspiration.

Sunny Monday

2009-07-27T11:09:00.003-06:00

It's Monday, and my mom is coming into town tomorrow! She'll be here for about a week to see the little guy. Cleaned up the guest room/craft room/storage room/hmmmm....yeah. We really should get rid of the second desk in that room, it's small enough as it is. I can't see having more than one child in this house - we already are out of room. Granted, it's pretty typical to have swings and jumpers and strollers hanging around in the living room, I guess.

A little exhausted from being up with a hungry/cranky baby last night who acted like he wanted to eat, but when he got to the "site" would just play around. Of course, he is now zonked out. Why couldn't he do that last night? He's still in our room at night...I wonder when I'll feel the need to move him to his own room?

Went for a jog/walk last night with Mike and baby in the BOB. I think we were out for a little over an hour. It felt nice to move, but my lower belly is still a tad sore. I think it's just my abs hanging there...lifeless. Lol.

I have a hiccuping baby

2009-07-21T09:28:00.008-06:00

Napping with mom - is this really comfy?

My baby seems to hiccup a lot. Is this normal? It's like he is drunk off breast milk. I call him the "boob catcher", as he is always searching around opening his mouth, sucking his tongue...trying to find a boob ANYWHERE! There MUST be one out there somewhere! LOL. He is wriggling around in his boppy chair as we speak.

Boy do I hope this weight comes off fast. I lost about 20 lbs so far...15 when I got home and another 5 this past week. Now I am just left with a jelly belly. It goes down every day, but I know it will take work to get back to normal. I am hesitant to start any running, though. I want to make sure everything is healing well etc etc. Logan and I went for a walk/jog the other day, and it went alright. My lungs are obviously totally out of shape. My abs are also non-existent, which is a really odd feeling for me because mine were always pretty strong and defined. It's all soft now. WEIRD.

Mike and I are planning on a race in December in Tucson. He'll do the full marathon and I'll do the 1/2. So, that gives me five months from when Logan was born to get to where I want to be. I think I'll be able to do it. I probably won't start training for it for a bit, and just ease into it when I do. It'll be a nice "come-back" race for me hopefully! Finishing will be all that matters, this won't be for time. Granted-I have a hard time NOT racing for time, so we'll see. Mike is going to try and qualify for Boston again so we can head back there for the race next April. Boston, being THE marathon to run, has always been so accessible to us! It has been literally in our backyard and been able to watch the runners, so not being there the past couple years has been strange. I know he'll qualify easily because he is speedy :-)

Okay, enough for today, I'll bop back in eventually!

More baby love every day

2009-07-20T08:21:00.005-06:00

So...last Monday I had our Logan! It has been almost a week now, and it's funny how you start to forget the whole labor/delivery so quickly. I think about it every day to try and remember it...not because I enjoyed the pain, but because it was such a miracle!

If you're not into nitty gritty details, then don't read this! Otherwise, I'll recap how it all went down.

I woke up Monday morning at 3 AM and got up, knowing I wouldn't be able to sleep anymore. I was having contractions, and may have been having them for a while but didn't realize it in my sleep. I got up, putted around, made some coffee, read a magazine. They were about 5-7 min apart...which made me nervous because they say to go the hospital when they are 5 min apart! However, I didn't want to jump the gun so I sat around for a couple hours. I ended up crawling back in bed with Mike around 5 AM, he woke up because I was obviously moving around and making noise. I told him I thought I was having contractions, which got him all excited. He was up and timing them immediately. They started to get closer together, about 2-3 minutes apart, and stronger. Finally around 7AM we got our stuff and hopped in the car. Got to the hospital and they checked me out...and I was only 1 cm dilated, just like my last dr. appt! They told us to walk around for a couple hours. We did that, and by the time we got back they were a lot stronger and I just wanted to stay in the triage room. I had only progressed to 2 cm. The problem I was having was thatthey were so close together I had no time to rest! I stayed in the triage room another 2 hours and finally got to 4 cm, so they admitted me. At that point I was getting aggravated as they were a lot stronger. I do remember thinking...I don't know if I can do this for a lot longer. Anyway, we got to a room, and they set me up in the new bed. I had been standing up and leaning on the bed before, but by now I just stayed in bed. By 3PM I had had enough...they were so strong and close together I got an epidural. The lady who did it probably finished around 3:30 and it kicked in full gear by 4 or so...finally some relief! I could feel most contractions, but the pain pretty much went away. I had been having horrific back labor so this helped a lot. As time went on I began to feel more pressure during contractions, and could definitely tell when I was having a strong one. I labored like this until about 7PM, I had been dilated to 10 for a little while, and had to WAIT because the dr. was busy with emergency c-sections! WHAT?! So, I had a midwife do it, she was extremely nice. I started pushing at 8, and he came into the world at 9:02 PM! The midwife said, of course, if I hadn't had the epi I would have gotten him out a lot faster. Also, he was sunnyside up, which made the process a little longer because it takes them longer to get through the birth canal this way. Either way, by the time he came out I was fine. They delivered the placenta, and I felt it but didn't really care or notice because I had this squirmy baby on my chest! He was beautiful. 7 lbs 3 oz. 21 inches long. It is so weird that THAT came out of ME. I can't even make sense of it...it boggles my mind. Mike was good the whole time, really helpful and encouraging...took lots of pics right after and a couple videos of him being measured etc etc.

The whole experience was insane, and I won't lie, I felt like I got hit by a bus a couple days later. Sore every where! But, I am recovering fast and just can't believe I DID it. I remember thinking in the months leading up to it that I couldn't do it (not that I had a choice).

Anyway, gtg, little man is calling.

Logan decided to come into the world!

2009-07-16T14:58:00.003-06:00

I have been gone! And that's because Logan was born on Monday night, the 13th of July at 9:02 pm. I will have pics up and a story of how it went soon (when I have some time).

Here is one to suffice for now - I think he is beautiful. ;-)

Learn-to-Draw

2009-07-09T10:28:00.003-06:00

With all this "waiting" time on my hands, I have really tried to touch on all sorts of artistic mediums. Yesterday afternoon I took out my pencils and pastels, and decided to try my hand at drawing. I'm not the best drawer, but not the worst. So, rather than free-hand it, I googled "learn how to draw". Personally, I love flowers...so I found all sorts of good flower drawings to copy. With my sketch-pad and pencils, I set to work on some daffodils. Forty-five minutes later, voila! A pretty darn good sketch! I was so happy with the outcome, that I went to work on a rose. A couple hours later I had some pretty nice drawings of flowers! Two just wasn't enough, though. I'm thinking I will do four, and arrange them in some frames for a foursome. This A.M. I did some irises...and later on I will find something else to do. All different colors of course. Maybe some tulips of varying colors, orange and yellow? For now, though, this is what I have accomplished!

sites I found helpful were:

HowStuffWorks
Instructables
Buzzle.com

They are just very basic instructions on how to get started...I found that even after my first drawing I started adding shading and lines of my own. But these sites are a great place to start.

On a different note - I am off to a baby appt soon! MAN, I hope we have something more exciting to talk about this time! Like...if you don't have this baby by next Wednesday (four days after my due date) we will induce you. I need a date people! I am going nuts! Just totally uncomfortable.

Alright, have a wonderful day!

~~Lisbet~~

Amusing Wednesday

2009-07-08T16:13:00.002-06:00

I just had a funny jaunt to my local bead shop - which I had never been to, so I am glad that there is one so close by! First off, it is hot as hell out so going outside was a feat in itself. I hopped in the hot car, blasted the AC, and headed down there. There were a couple cars in the parking lot, and I headed on in. It was my kind of shop because the two women working were laughing and joking around, super friendly, and a little sarcastic (which is me, all the way). One woman walked in and after a while she goes, "So when's that baby due?" I told her. And she was like "I saw you get out of your car and thought "oh God! She's gunna have that thing in the store!" Apparently, I look like I'm ready to explode. All the ladies were like, oh my, go home! What are you doing out! You're nuts! What's funny is I never thought twice about it. I was just bored at home! So I went out! Granted, I wouldn't mind sitting around guilt-free. Sooo...maybe I'll take their advice and just hang out until this baby comes! Ya know, make sure my hair is washed, everything is packed, and all is ready to go once this guy decides it's time to enter the world.

Have a great evening,

~~LISBET~~