I am sorry

Hello fellow bloggers!

I apologize for my absence of late. But things around here have been INSANE!

Christmas is fastly approaching and most of the shopping is done. Just a few small bits that we need to pick up and it will be finished. Then I can get my hubby to start wrapping!

The "surprise" I spoke of in my last post has come and gone. I had planned with the help of some family a 30th anniversary party for my Mom and Dad. It was a huge success and there were a lot of laughs.

Connor turned 2 on December 5th! 2, I can't believe it. And I found it hard to start thinking about Christmas BEFORE his party was over.

And I feel sick, which makes things harder. But I am always sick over the holidays. My only hope is that the little boos don't catch it too!

Oh, and I sprained my ankle, which put a huge damper on my running. But slowly I am back at it. VERY SLOWLY!

Friday Ramblings

This beautiful Angel is Sydney. She is our little surprise!

This is my main man Connor. The light and love of my life!

--Man it is COLD outside.

--Another successful running week thus far. I am pretty excited about how I am progressing. Still slow as tar, but it's getting there!

--I FINALLY got my camera I have been waiting for since forever - the Canon Rebel. It is a fine piece of machinery. But I will have to take a camera course to learn how the hell to use this thing LOL!

--I sell AVON (in case anyone out there didn't already know!) and McDreamy himself has his own cologne for men coming out. What a weird world where the Guy from "Can't By Me Love" is now pitching cologne.

--Christmas Baking time is almost here. Anyone have any idea how to FREEZE cookies? And for how long before they taste "funky"?

--There is a HUGE happening in the next few weeks in my life and I cannot wait to tell you all about it. But for now it is a big, fat, stinking, secret.

--I miss my BFF Marlene. Where the hell are you girl LMAO?!?

--I am winning the family football pool this year. Too bad the four teams I chose to win the Super Bowl are all sucking!

--Happy Friday Everyone!

Drawing a Blogging Blank

There is a lot going on but I can't seem to find something to write about? Go figure.

The holiday season seems to have come early for us this year. We have already had two pretty significant snowfalls and a lot of people seem to be putting their lights up and turning them on earlier this year. I usually wait until after the American Thanksgiving to get into the swing of things. So next weekend we will be putting up the Christmas tree and all the decorations. Luckily I am working so hubby will be doing all the work. I will miss it, but they will wait to decorate the tree once I get home!

Running was great this week. I misplaced my schedule, but I think this week looks like this:

Monday - off
Tuesday - 4k
Wednesday - 4k
Thursday - 3k
Friday - off
Saturday - 4k
Sunday - 9k LSD

Total - 24k

I am working a lot in the next few weeks, so that means more morning runs than I would like.....

Woo Hoo

I am sure I mentioned that I currently work at The Running Room. For anyone in the US that may not know, the Running Room is a specialty store that caters to, you guessed it, runners and walkers!

It is an AMAZING place to work. I have the most supportive manager in the world. And my co-workers are awesome. I know I have made some life long friends working in this amazing environment.

It also keeps my running honest. I joined the latest 1/2 Marathon Clinic at the store so I would keep up with my training runs, especially those long Sunday runs.

They also have a clinic called "For Women Only". It's a great clinic because it incorporates all the "Learn to Run" Clinic points but is for Women. So that means there are no men in the clinic. And the clinic instructor is also a woman.

And for January's Women's Only, the instructor is ME!

I was so excited to be asked and can't wait. Certainly it will take some planning since Colin is also teaching the 5K Clinic. But I think that it is definitely something that we can do. It is only for ten weeks after all!

Awww Mannnnn

As my son says, Awwww Mannnnnn.

Nothing went to plan this week. I mean N O T H I N G.

First, hubby was sent to VERMONT on last minute business. So we needed to find someone to help look after the kiddies during the nights I worked. Since we were going out on Tuesday night and my Mom and Dad were taking the kids overnight, we decided to spend the rest of the week at their place. So me and my two babies spent Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday AND Friday night at their place. Of course, I tried hard to stay on plan the whole time I was there, but managed to eat a few things that I could have done without!

But mostly the running suffered. I ran twice, but I haven't run since Thursday.

Then there is this cold I seem to just be fighting off. I was in bed last night at nine and slept all the way to EIGHT this morning. And I still feel a little under the weather. So it is off to work today then home tonight for a rest.

Training wise, here is this weeks schedule:

Monday - 4K
Tuesday - off
Wednesday - 3k
Thursday - 3k
Friday - off
Saturday - 3K
Sunday - 7k

Here we go to week two!

So.......

14.5 did not happen. I just wasn't feeling it! But I had a great birthday evening anyways.

My hubby took me to see the Leafs game. And it was awesome. Then it was dinner at the Bier Market and lots of champagne. I was NOT feeling very good but it was still awesome.

This week is turning into a real doozy. My hubby is going away unexpectedly which puts us in a bit of a bind to find help with the kiddies, since I work weeknights!

And I got a new pair of Lululemon pants with a gift certificate my sister gave me. And I love them!

And My 1/2 Marathon Training begins this week. Here is how it looks:

Wednesday - 3k Steady
Thursday - 3k Steady
Friday - off
Saturday - 3k Steady
Sunday - 7k LSD

Total - 16k

Hopefully I will be able to go out and make these happen. Wish me luck!

P.S. Congrats to Marlene for her awesome new PR this weekend. I knew you could do it girl!

My Scariest Halloween

Halloween has always been big in my life. My birthday is November 1st, so I ALWAYS had a Halloween inspired birthday party while growing up (and a sister's birth on my 4th birthday, but we'll save that story for another day).

Last October 31st is, and will be, my scariest Halloween to date.

Sydney was 10 days old and she woke up at four to eat. She seemed like she was tired, but ate and fell back asleep.

At seven she woke up. I always describe it as someone came into her crib and switched her with another baby. First, she woke up screaming. Sydney never cried, she her screaming was frightening. When I went to pick her up, she would cringe, like touching her was hurting her. My Mom came over and by ten I had called Colin to tell him we needed to take her to emergency. She had a high fever and would not stop crying.

When we got to emergency, she still was crying but her temperature had gone down. They decided that it couldn't be too serious, so they had us wait in the waiting room. We were infuriated, but felt helpless to do anything about it. Of course, many nosy nancies said it was "Just Colic". Uh, no. I had a one year old at home who did suffer from Colic and this wasn't it.

About THREE hours later, she became listless and we ran her back to admitting. WITHIN 10 Minutes she was in the NICU and they told us she may not make it through the night. We were horrified. She had some unknown "infection" that they couldn't seem to diagnose. Their only hope was to give her as much antibiotics and tests as they could perform and hope she was strong enough to fight it on her own.

I don't remember much about the next 72 hours. They were a blur of hospital, to home, to hospital, to see our son at my Mom and Dad's. She had a feeding tube, and on Sunday, when we thought she was in the clear, she took a bit of a step back.

Twelve days later, we took our little girl home. That morning, we had our family portrait taken for our churches registry. We look so tired. And you can see the band aid on Sydney's hand from where they removed her IV not twenty minutes before.

We never found out exactly what infection Sydney had, but the doctor suspects it was Bacterial Meninigitis. And how she got it, they couldn't say.

That was the worst day of my life.

I will never forget, my scariest Halloween.

Small Goals

So I believe that everything you do is about goals. Some days your goals are just to get out of bed and make sure you shower before you go to work. Other times it's to make sure you only eat healthy.

I decided that in honor of my 29th birthday this Saturday, I will be running 14.5k with my hubby. Now, why 14.5? Because it's half of 29 and there is no WAY I am running 29k this Saturday!

He has planned out a nice route for us and says no matter how long it takes, he will run with me. Really he is just my running coach for this one. If I let him run it, it would take him no time and I would be left like dust in the wind!

So wish me luck. Since Colin will be running with me, he will have his Garmin and I will let you all know how it goes!

Back to Basics

I have made it no secret that my ultimate goal is to shed some of this "Post Baby" weight. How much isn't really in my mind right now. But enough that I don't run a 8:35 walk adjusted Kilometer. And enough that I can fit into all the pretty clothes that have been hanging in my closet since January of 2006.

Recently I began using Nutrisystem. And it worked well. But it is way too expensive, especially with another adult in the house. I was still spending the same on groceries as I was before, plus buying the food. So I have decided to go back to what I know: Weight Watchers.

I have been using the online tools for Weight Watchers all year. It especially helps when my activity (i.e. training) is up and I need to figure out activity points. I always use the Flex Plan and not Core because while I don't like being told what I can't have. And I like me carbs way too much. Ideally I would LOVE to go back to meetings, but I can't afford it right now. So it will be online for me!

So it's back to the basics and these very good rules to live by:

Drink Water ALL DAY LONG
Eat your Veggies, especially at lunch
Limit my Alcoholic Intake (See I can't drink "just one" glass of wine. All my nearest and dearest know that!)
Exercise is the key (since my training begins again next Wednesday, that won't be a problem)

Hopefully this time, I will be able to stick to this. Especially with Christmas coming up soon!

Training Limbo

We've all been there. That place between your last race or goal and the next one!

Right now that is where I find myself. Truth be told, my limbo is actually quite longer than just my last race. Since I haven't been running since before mid August consistently, I feel like I am starting all over again. Which I guess I am!

On Wednesday I signed up for The Chilly Half Marathon in Burlington in March. Then I made my training schedule up and joined the 1/2 Marathon Clinic at the Running Room. Some good friends are teaching the clinic together, so I think it is going to be a blast.

Training officially starts on November 5th. I am really excited. This is a huge race for me both personally and physically. I wanted Scotia to be my first "running" race, but this will have to do.

Besides as the great Confucius said "It doesn't matter how slowly you go, so long as you never stop".

It May Be Safe To Say........

........that after a year, it may not be "Post Pregnancy Weight" anymore!

I refuse to complain and I refuse to be negative. But this weight loss thing is hard! EVERY DAY, there seems to be something else that gets in the way of my weight loss goals.

In the beginning I figured it would be easy. I've been down this road before. But I am starting to become a bit frustrated with the lack of results. Colin thinks I may not be getting enough food through Nutrisystem to train like I have been. And since I am doing such a high level of activity, I might just be holding on to all my reserves for dear life. Makes sense I guess.

Plus there's the baking. I love to bake and cook. I make dinner for my family every night and I love to try new things. I made an awesome Banana Loaf for a friends birthday yesterday and decided to make Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies too. And Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies. So yeah. There are now about 4 dozen cookies sitting in my kitchen waiting for me to eat them. So far this morning I have been good. But I know once my coffee is done, and the grapes I am nibbling disappear, it will just be me.........and the cookies.

I save my addiction to the Starbucks Lattes for another day (Skinny, but Venti)!

Tonight I will be going on a nice short 4k. Since it occurred to me as I was building my training schedule for The Chilly Half Marathon in March that training starts two weeks from yesterday!

Oasis Zoo Run Race Report

Well we are finally on the mend over here, so I thought I would let everyone know how my weekend went.

On Saturday, I participated in the Oasis Zoo Run 10k here in T.O. It was a cold morning, and I was glad that I had decided to wear my running jacket. Colin and I got to the zoo at 7:30, so we easily picked up our packs and were back in the car in no time! Soon we met up with some friends and proceeded to the start corals. Someone must have been playing a trick on me, because my 1:00+ purple sticker was covered with a 40-50 yellow sticker. I traded with hubby and we went to our corrals!

The race started and some runners I had planned to run with took off. So I was pretty much my own company for the entire race.

It was a beautiful route, but there were A LOT of hills and even more turns it seemed. By the time I got to the first water station, the first elite (see Kenyan LOL) passed. It is always a thrill to see they elite. About 1k later I saw something that gave me chills. The top three ladies fighting for first place. They practically looked like they were running arm in arm. It was so inspiring. And it is one of the things I love about this sport. You run with THE BEST in the world. The same route, the same race, the same finish line. It's awesome.

The remaining first half was pretty uneventful. But once I hit the 1/2 way point, I was toast LOL! ALL of my fellow runners know exactly what I am talking about. That damn uphill board walk. It nearly killed me. The African Trail was also pretty demanding. More ups and downs and LOTS of turns.

By 8k, I knew my pace had slowed. So much that I was passed by a few WALKERS. But I just plugged away. Once I came around the corner, and saw the finish line, I sprinted into the end for a 1:34:19.7 gun time. About six minutes off my PR, but it was a demanding course that I was just happy to see the end of!

The BEST part of the whole day? My best friends and hubby also ran and all kicked it's butt. And my sweetie of a mother in law and her sister were there with the kids after. That was really special!

It is definitely a race that I will be running again next year. Hope to see you all there!

The finishers! Just one suggestion? That course DEMANDS a finishers medal!

Ugh

So not much time to post anything today. Both Sydney and I are sick. BOOOOOO! But I promise as soon as I feel up to it, I will be giving everyone an awesome race report for this past weekends Zoo Run!

Weekdays and Weekends

For most of us, our lives run pretty much the same. We get up on Monday, shower, get the kids ready for the day or to go to school and then we ourselves go to work. We come home, have dinner, maybe go out for a run or to the gym. We come home, get the kids and hubby ready for bed and try to unwind before eleven hits. We do this Monday to Friday until finally it's the weekend!

My life, does not work that way.

Yes, I get up on Monday mornings. Usually before the sun, and I usually run then. Because by the time my day is done, the last thing I want to do is exercise.

I am a new generation stay at home Mom. Why the "new generation" label? Simply put, I can't afford to work full time and pay for the childcare my kids would need. So I work evenings and weekends. Which puts a huge damper on living a "normal" life. But this is normal for me!

And Weekends? What are those again? My weekends are normally more jammed packed then my weekdays. For instance:

Friday-My mother and aunt in law are coming for the weekend! Hubby and I are going out while they have agreed to look after the kiddies for us!

Saturday - Zoo Run at the Toronto Zoo in the am. Softball banquet in the PM. Also have to find some time to go and get a pair of shoes for said banquet, get my daughters birthday present and pick up some AMAZING gourmet cookies I am having made for her party!

Sunday-Sydney's 1ST BIRTHDAY! Where did this year go? Pick up her cake, do some last minute grocery shopping and set up for the party. Then of course....PAAAAARTAY!

And keep in mind that I am NOT working this weekend! So that means next weekend, two days on!

Basically every weekend looks like the one above. And sometimes it gets so stressful and tiring. But I work hard and play harder!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Team Diabetes

So here is our announcement of sorts: Colin and I now belong to Team Diabetes!

Since its inception, Team Diabetes participants have raised vital funds on behalf of the Canadian Diabetes Association and the 2 million Canadians with diabetes that the Association serves.
Team Diabetes participants not only increase public awareness of the disease, they inspire their communities to get active and involved. They create lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, while raising funds in support of the research, education, advocacy, and programming that the Canadian Diabetes Association delivers in communities across Canada. Team Diabetes participants are local heroes working to prevent diabetes at home and abroad.
Team Diabetes programs allow you to walk or run in world-class marathon events in fascinating cities both nationally and throughout the World.

Colin and I will be running on behalf of his mom, Penny, in May during the Ottawa Race Weekend! I will be running the 10k event on Saturday, May 23rd and Colin will be running the Half Marathon on Sunday, May 24th!

We are both very excited to be a part of this Team. Many may not know but Diabetes is something that has affected both our lives, but especially Colin. His wonderful mom Penny has had Diabetes most of her life, and it is something that she lives with everyday.

So this is for you Mom!

Let's all support this wonderful cause together! We will both be sending out emails soon with more information!

The Year in Retrospect (So Far) and 2009

In an effort to continue training (if you can call it that) Colin and I are already trying to decide what races we will be doing in 2009. So far this is the line up:

Chilly Half Marathon - Burlington, Ontario - March 1st Both of Us
Around the Bay 30k - Hamilton, Ontario - March 29th Both of Us
Hartwell Challenge 10.5k - Aurora, Ontario - April 26th This is a COUPLES Challenge with some friends of ours. And we will lose LMAO!
Nordion 10k - Ottawa, Ontario - May 23rd I will run this, while Colin runs the Ottawa Half Marathon the next day!
Toronto Women's Half Marathon - Toronto, Ontario - May 31st This is just me....Colin and the kids will be waiting for me at the finish!
Nissan 10 Miler - Toronto, Ontario - Date TBA A nice warm up race to Scotia
Scotiabank Half Marathon - Toronto, Ontario - September 2009 Both again
Oasis Zoo Run - Toronto, Ontario - October 2009 And again, on both our schedules.

Sporting Life is out, since we just can't fit it into the schedule and we had already decided that while The Mud Run was an experience, we would NOT be doing it again!

Colin has some other things planned for next year, including a couple of clinics he is teaching and MAYBE taking the Triathlon Clinic next summer! Plus there is a smattering of 5k races that I am sure we will also fit into the schedule somehow!

Speaking of Colin, I want to take a second to applaud his efforts this year. Colin started out 2008 agreeing to run because he wanted to support my efforts to run. Many people may not know that Colin is what I like to call a natural athlete. He started playing hockey at a very young age and his body is conditioned to perform. And has it.

His first 5k race in March he ran in over 30 minutes. His next 5k race in August was run in 26:04, which took off a full 5 minutes from his previous Personal Record. This past weekend at the CIBC Run for a Cure, Colin ran an impressive 24:06! So since March he has taken almost seven minutes off his 5k time!

And in his first Half Marathon he finished with in 1:58:05!

So I can't think of a better coach to get my butt in shape. He is making up running schedules for me so I know what distance I need to run and on which days to run them. And he is letting me use his Garmin so I can finally figure out what exactly my pace is.

We also have a little something planned that I haven't told anyone about, but I think it deserves a post of it's own. So look out for that in the next few days!

Scotia Race Report

On Sunday, I completed my first 21.1k Half Marathon. Initially, I was going to run, but some health issues got in the way and I walked it instead.

Saturday, we dropped the kiddies of at their Nana and Papa's and headed down to the city to pick up our race kits! The Expo was small, but it was nice to see so many familiar faces and talk to some amazing friends I don't normally get to see - Martine from new Balance and Bill from Mizuno - are two that come to mind. I also got a nice pat from Sylvia Ruegger. Overall it was calming for me to see people that believed that I was going to succeed.

The alarm went off at 5:00am and we were up. Both Colin and I got the BEST nights sleep in ages, considering that we didn't have the kids. By 5:30 we were out the door and on the way to the race.

Colin found parking just north of Dundas at the bus station. It is just a two minute walk to City Hall. As we approached the race site, I started to get really nervous again. I mean, could I really do this?

Colin checked our bag, and I talked with one of my Running Room work mates (Helena) while I waited. She was also running the 1/2 so I knew there were a lot of people that I was going to know on route.

On our way to the corral, I stopped and got a much needed hug from John Stanton. He has always been so supportive of his staff and it actually calmed my nerves considerably. Then it was off to the purple corral to await the start of the race.

Colin started in the same corral as me, as we waited patiently for the gun. About two minutes before the gun, we were asked to move up, which pushed me RIGHT into the Green Corral! Colin felt good, but I really started to get nervous. But of course, I saw our friend Dave who gave us a nice shout out, and my nerves calmed AGAIN.

The gun went off and in two minutes Colin and I crossed the start line. A quick kiss from him and he was off! Just as I was rounding the first corner, I saw Diane and Jen, some walking friends from work! High fives all around and I kept going. Dave passed me about five minutes later and gave me another good luck call. It was great having these people around, since it really gave me the motivation to keep going.

The first 5k were pretty uneventful. LOTS of runners were passing and I just tried to stay out of the way. Once we hit the 6k mark, the 1/2 marathon leaders were ALREADY coming back. Records were on their way to being smashed for sure.

5-10k were the most difficult. I don't use a Garmin (GPS and I think I might be asking for one for my birthday) so I really had no idea how fast my pace was. Just before 8K I heard my name being called from the 1/2 marathoners on their way back. IT WAS COLIN. I was so happy to see him and the smile on my face stayed for the rest of the race.

At 10k another shout out from Pete and Candice, who were also on their way back. All these people telling me to keep going was so motivating. At 10k I also got my first split time. It was 1:41:16! I was so happy. But I also new I had to slow it down. At the 12.2k, my time was 2:01:56.

Once I hit the 13k I really stared to get excited. I was over half way there and I new I was going to make it. At 15k I grabbed some water and really ramped up the pace. The handful of M&M's I had helped too.

At 20k we join up with the marathoners and make our way up to the finish. The streets were lined with people cheering and screaming. Having my name on my bid certainly helps, and hearing people call out to me made me feel great.

With 150m to go, Diane and Jen were there cheering me on! More high fives all around.

With just 50m left I saw Colin. He was screaming at me to finish. All our friends were there. It was great. I crossed at 3:31:46.5. My chip time was 3:27:45.1. My pace was 10:03. My goal was to finish under 3:30. So I was really pleased. I collected my medal and headed back to the finish line to watch Marlene finish her first marathon!

Over all it was a great experience. My feet are in pretty bad shape, but I already have another 1/2 lined up and am trying to see what next year has in store!

If you made it this far, thanks for reading!

The Right Stuff

Love New Kids.

So week 2 was good. Was down another 4 pounds. I am truly liking this new eating regime.

After spending an amazing weekend away with my sister in Montreal to see NKOTB, I came back ready to get going again.

On Monday morning I had a bit of a headache, but blamed it on the fact that I was tired. Had my breakfast and morning coffee. Then the madness began. I became INCREDIBLY ILL. I mean, I was sick all day. I managed a call into my friend Bev to let her know work would have to wait a few days, and that I was alive.

I managed to stop getting sick around noon yesterday. So I guess I must have eaten something that did not agree with me. The kids and Colin have showed no signs of getting it. So lets keep our fingers crossed.

Week 1

So as per my previous post, I have just completed my first week of Nutrisystem. First a few things to note:

1. Writing down everything that I eat and drink and when is certainly helping. Especially on those days where I seem hungrier than I should be. Leaving too much time in between when I eat could be problematic.

2. Considering how busy I am on a daily basis, the pre-packaged meals have been a LIFESAVER! Just being able to grab a meal, heat and eat has been making this so easy. The only problem is having to decide what to eat since there are so many good choices!

3. Exercise, as always, is key for me. Got out for 4 1 hour walks with the kiddies (7k) and managed to get my legs back.

This week, the program talks about Internal vs. External hunger and how to recognize which one you are feeling.

So, now for the results. I lost 8 pounds this week. I am pretty pleased with that!

So on to week 2. I will be cutting it short this time around, as Friday my sister and I are going away to see NKOTB. We are so excited!

Something Nu

Ok, so I told everyone in my last post that I was going to be trying something else.

I have been on and off the Weight Watchers wagon for months now. I was doing it online, but I didn't find the support or the accountability that I need to keep me on track. And I can't possibly go to the meetings, as I am either working, or home with the kids.

I then thought about Jenny Craig, but in further discussions with them, they like to see you in house TWICE a week and not with the kids. So that would have been impossible.

So I decided that I would try Nutrisystem.

I am sure you have all seen the commercial with Marie Osmond. So I sucked it up and got some delivered. You eat a breakfast, lunch and dinner entree as well as a dessert. You add in your veggies and dairy and voila!

So far so good. My hubby likes to call it my "Astronaut" food. But it is really satisfying. Plus since the meals are there and I can choose what I FEEL like eating that day, it isn't nearly as hard as I thought it would be. Yes, the serving sizes are smaller, but I am feeling good.

I was going to wait until week one was over to post, but I decided what the heck. I can't wait until I tell everyone! So I hope after my first week, I will have made a small dent in the damage I have caused over the summer!

No Surprises

As everyone that knows me well knows, I hate surprises. I don't even think hate is a strong enough word actually.......

So imagine MY surprise when I stepped on the scale this morning and saw my weight. It is.......significantly..........higher than it used to be. There has been a lot going on in my life, so I haven't really been paying that much attention really. But it was bad.

So I guess it is once AGAIN time to get back on the horse and start again. I am certainly hoping to find something that works well for me.

In the meantime, we have been very busy and I have been working non stop. Hopefully once things calm down .....but nope. We have so many other things going on in the next twelve weeks it is insane.

Where did August Go?

I cannot believe that August is almost at an end? What happened to the summer.

Much too report. At my annual check up I was informed by my doctor that I could not run due to a small heart murmur that was discovered. Who knew? I will probably get the go ahead to run again in September but by then it will be too late to train to properly run Scotia. I am a bit disappointed, but I am going to train to walk instead. I have been walking pretty much everyday, so hopefully I will finish in time to see Marlene cross the finish line in her Marathon!

We also lost our camera which is a HUGE inconvenience. We can't take pictures of our little babies and Casey. It sucks. But alas, such is life I guess LOL!

Other than that, there isn't much to report. Have a great day everyone!

Turkey Taco Meatloaf

This meatloaf is addictive! Once you start eating it, it's pretty had to stop. Luckily, it's super-low in calories and packed with lots of good for you foods!

Ingredients
1 pound raw extra lean ground turkey
2 slices fat free cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded fat free cheddar cheese
1/2 cup canned sweet corn kernels
1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped onions
1/2 cup salsa
1/2 package of taco seasoning mix

Preheat oven to 375 degrees

Cook peppers and onions for 3 minutes over medium heat in a pan sprayed with non stick spray

In a large bowl, combine onions and peppers with turkey, corn, and seasoning mix.

Spread half of the mixture evenly into the bottom of a loaf pan sprayed with non-stick spray.

Layer the two slices of fat free cheese on top of the mixture (try to keep slices away from the pan's edges). Evenly top with the remaining meat mixture.

Pour the salsa over the top of the loaf. Cook in the oven for 30 minutes.

Top loaf with shredded cheese. Return to the oven and cook for another 15 minutes.

Makes 6 servings.

This is a really hearty and good for you meal. And three points per serving, not too shabby!

Per Serving (1/6th) of loaf): 127 calories, 1g fat, 688 mg sodium, 7g carbs, .5g fibre, 2g sugar, 22g protein.

A Thursday "Stroll"er to the Library

Well, the kids and I were feeling a little stir crazy this morning. So I piled them into our trusty double stroller and we took a walk to the Aurora Public Library! Welcome to Aurora!

Connor really got a kick out of all the "wildlife" LOL! These duckies are busy swimming away from him!

I was excited to see a Sports Nutrition store on the way. So I thought I would stop in and see what they had to offer in the way of advice..........

Unfortunately, this was what we saw when we got there. A sign of the times I guess!

Just how many Maple Streets do you think there are in North America? This one is just north of Wellington Road, at Yonge Street. The houses in this area are very old and beautiful.

This was one of MANY roadblocks on the way to the library and back. But these gentleman were nice enough to stop and let us pass by without electrocuting us! Thanks guys!

We made it to the library in just over an hour. Not too bad, if I do say so myself. Registered for my Library Card (which was free. Awesome!) and picked up two cookbooks and "Running for Mortals". This is the check out area. And the only place they would let me take a picture!

A beautiful, mint condition Cadillac Eldorado. This car is gorgeous. It is so spooky looking and I must admit, I wouldn't mind driving it around. It has such a great look to it!

Once again, a road block that we didn't go past. Asbestos. Yummy!

The historic Hillary House. We were going to go in.................

But couldn't seem to find the entrance!

Stopped at Shoppers to get some band aids!

This is becoming a habit of mine..............cross the street Sarah!

I found a gift certificate in my purse for a free six inch sub from Quiznos! I got a Veggie Sub. I know, don't go too wild Sarah!

Craddock Park, off of Yonge Street. We were going to stop........but there was work going on in the soccer field!

The kids are having a blast so far! Only a few k's left guys and we will be home!

I decided to take Old Yonge for a change of scenery.................

Which promptly put Connor to sleep!

But smiling Sydney is still with us! Way to go girl!

The home stretch........wow, that looks like a steep hill.........

You may have to squint, but there is a herring and some geese there. I think?

This tree is at the corner of Industrial and St. John's Sideroad. It is so old and weathered. I can only imagine the things it's seen and how long it has been here.

Finally home and down for the count. Way to go guys!

Well, we managed to walk over 10k, and had a great morning. Now everyone is sleeping. Except Mom of course!

My Life As I Know It

It's been a tough week.

On Thursday, my dear father in law Dave succumbed from a short battle from cancer. It was shocking and fast. His last few hours were comfortable for him. And luckily Colin and I were at his side with Mom in his last moments. It was heartbreaking and life affirming for me all at the same time.

The last four years have been trying on my own body. When Dave joined Weight Watchers in the fall of 2004 he had made the decision that he wanted to live a healthier life for himself. He was successful in taking off the weight and HE inspired me to do the same. After almost 80 pounds myself I became pregnant with Connor. And of course after, Sydney.

So I look at the positives of where I was and where I am today. I am still almost 80 pounds lighter than where I started. And I have two beautiful kids that I adore. And a loving and caring husband that loves me more today than yesterday.

This has been a week of reflection and sadness. I have a deep hole in the place where my heart should be. I ache for Colin and my mother in law. They have lost this wonderful husband and father. My kids lost an amazing grandfather. And I lost an amazing friend.

Some things will need to change for me to get back on track. But I am taking the rest of this week with my family to reflect on the time that has passed and the love we share.

When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary;
When troubles come and my heart burdened be;
Then, I am still and wait here in the silence,
Until you come and sit awhile with me.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up... To more than I can be.

We're Sick

The ENTIRE family is sick with a wicked head cold. So no running so far this week.

Check back in a few days. MAYBE there will be some progress!

Ashley

On July 1st, 2008 a very special friend from a long time ago, Erin, told me her little sister Ashley passed away.

I feel so sad for her today. Ashley and Erin shared the same birthday (March 17th) like me and my sister Meghan. So while we were growing up we always felt that special connection. I want her to know that she is in my thoughts today. Her loss is unmeasurable.

Today I want everyone to take a moment to remember those gone before us, those that may have touched our lives irrevocably.

Ashley is in my thoughts and prayers today and always. Rest In Peace.

xo

What?!

So this weekend was a bust!

But that is ok. Back on track. Running home from work tonight, which is 5k and running TO work on Saturday morning, baring any major storms or bad weather. Also trying to fit in 4k tomorrow!

I really need a bike........

Hope that eveyone has a great week!

Check In Before The Long Weekend

Well so far this week has been good. I skipped my planned 3k on Wednesday, but I ran 5k on Tuesday and Thursday. I am also running five again tonight, as I won't be able to run tomorrow (working from 8-6:30 need to make up the hours for the six days missed LAST WEEKEND!)

Then it is the dreaded 9K on Sunday. The "plan" is to get up at six and go. I figure it will take me about an hour and a half. And I have to get home in time for Colin to go to The Running Room for Run Club at 8:30.

Then it's relaxing by the pool on Sunday. Unless it rains. Which it looks like it will.

Week 3

I am not going to bother updating last week, because it was a wash!

On Tuesday night at work, I managed to drop one of our clinic benches on my foot. It was swollen and I couldn't run for two days. Then on Thursday morning, I fell down the stairs! With the weekend being as busy as it was, I didn't get out once. But upwards and onwards I say!

Here is the schedule for week three:

Monday - off
Tuesday - 4k
Wednesday - 3k
Thursday - 4k
Friday - off
Saturday - 3k, swimming
Sunday - 9k LSD and more swimming hopefully. And softball!

My foot is still sore, so I am hoping that I can manage ok tonight. I am going to run home from work, so it should be good!

I just wanted to send a shout out to Marlene and Patricia for completing The Mitsubishi City Race this weekend. You can read the full report here.

Way to go!

Week 2

Already?

So week one was ok! Let's see what we have in store for week 2!

Sunday - 7k
Monday - Swimming
Tuesday - 4k
Wednesday - 3k
Thursday - 4k
Friday - Rest
Saturday - 3k

Total - 20k

Connor is having his operation on Friday, so I am glad that is a rest day. Sunday could also be a challenge with Sydney's baptism!

Have a great day everyone!

Freakin' Friday

So far so good this week! Let's see how I am doing, shall we?

Sunday - 7k - Actually 10+, but in 40 degree heat!
Monday - Rest - Yep
Tuesday -4k - Yep
Wednesday - 3k- with a work buddy at work, so lots of hills! But slow
Thursday - 3k - not so much. An AF related migraine hit and Maxolt was my only friend last night!
Friday - Rest day! Date night baby!
Saturday 3k - going to run to work. Works out to 5k
Sunday - 7k - Father's Day, so I will be up early and then brunch with the Dad's in my life!

At least SOME of the humidity has gone away, but it seems to be creeping back in today. GAH! I hate humidity, I wish at least this was Jamaica!

Fun Stuff

Marlene tagged me, so here goes.

1. How would you describe your running 10 years ago?

Into the store to get cigarettes. Seriously. I weighed over 250 pounds and I was not active AT ALL!

2. What is your best and worst run/race experience?

1. My best run experience was my first race, the SportingLife 10k. It was my first race and a great experience.

2. The worst running experience I have has was on a run this winter. I had ZERO traction and the roads were a mess. I fell badly twice and really messed up my knee. It wasn't a good time.

3. Why do you run?

For my health and overall well-being. And it is so much FUN!

4. What is the best or worst piece of advice you've been given about running?

Best: Drink 1 cup of water for every hour you are awake. Hydration is the key people.

Worst: Not to eat before a long run. WTF is that about?

5. Tell us something surprising about yourself that not many people would know.

I can play Saxophone: Tenor, Alto and Soprano :)

Mud Run Report

Today was the Mud Run and it was the HARDEST thing that I have ever physically done. Bar none.

Colin and I got to the Run early so there was a lot of standing around. The run was Originally scheduled to begin at 9:45, but the 10k group didn't get out until 10:30!

The weather was hot and I have been pounding back the water all weekend. So I thought that I was prepared in those regards. Physically I have been pretty immobile the last few weeks, so I didn't have a lot of running experience. But who needs that for a 10k.

The Claireville Conservation Area is exactly how it sounds. It consists of a dirt road that basically drives into the woods. The beginning of the race was on this dirt road. And it wasn't that difficult. I managed to run the first 1.5k pretty strong and was feeling good. This is going to be easy, I thought to myself.

Then we got into the more "adventurous" part of the race. Basically, it goes right into the woods. There is a 1 foot path and it bottle necked. So the next 1/2k we were all but forced to walk. It opened up again for another 1/2k and then bottle necked at the river crossing. And like all good Canadians, WE LINED UP LOL! But then the teams that started 15 minutes after us started to catch up and we were forced to move. There was a lot of dirt and it was a difficult trek up the hill.

It opened up again into a field and away we went. I walked a bit but ran until we hit the 4k mark. The worst part about that was that the 4k mark was at the FINISH LINE. So only 4k in and the 5k race is done and people are finished. It was difficult to keep going. For a brief second I really considered turning Right instead of Left.

The next 6k I can only describe in one word. H E L L. It was mentally the hardest thing. It was too hot, and apparently I hadn't had enough water. At 7k I realized I couldn't close my hands and saw that they had swelled to almost triple their size.

The last 2k were insane. I would start to run, then walk then run again. I would suddenly have these huge emotional bursts of adrenaline and just as soon as they would come, they would go again. At the 9.25k mark we actually SAW our BFF's Marlene and Mark, and Dave. If it wasn't for then and their encouragement, I think I may have not finished, even so close to the finish line.

We finally made it to the Mud pit and jumped in. We crossed at about 2:36 minutes. And I was fine with that.

Colin ran the ENTIRE race with me and never left my side. Between 7-9k he was the ONLY reason I was moving forward and not stopping. He was encouraging and I knew he could have kicked ass on this race. But he didn't want to leave me behind. That is the measure of a man right there.

Sitting in the river and washing off after the race, I cried. I was so glad that I had finished and I new that up until this exact moment, I had never done anything so difficult.

And the worst part of it all? As soon as I was done, I turned to Colin and said "We are totally doing that again next year!"

Scotia Here I Come

So beginning on Sunday, I will officially be training for the Scotiabank Waterfront 1/2 Marathon. Am I a little nervous? Yes. But it's about time.

This is the breakdown for the next week:

Sunday: 7k LSD (Long Slow Distance) I will be doing 10k instead due to the fact that the Mud Run is that day
Monday: off
Tuesday: 3k
Wednesday:4k
Thursday: 3k
Friday: off
Saturday: 3k

Total: 20k (actually 23k).

I am hoping to fit in some swimming in the fams pool as it is finally open. And of course, our softball game is on Sunday too!

Enjoy this great weather everyone!

1-1

Yay we won!

It was a great game and we won!

So back to the drawing board I go. My running has come to a stand still so to speak. As has eating regularly. But we're home from a nice weekend at the lake and we will be getting back to "normal" soon. The Mud Run is this weekend and it should be great!

0-1

It was a great game but the Bombers went down 9-6 to the Grey Houndz.

As for my running......not so much. I have been going into the Mud Run thinking that it is really only for fun....even though they are timing it LOL!

My butt will have to get back into gear on June 9th though. That is the OFFICIAL day I begin to train for the Scotia Half, and I am more than a little nervous!

Let's Go Bombers

SOFTBALL!

Yes sports fans, softball starts this weekend! Good times. I am very excited about this season, as it seems I don't suck as much as I thought. And with the help of my team mate Simon I may even hit a few balls this year. No one hit wonder award this year baby!

I do need a pair of cleats though. It would seem that I am finding it difficult to swing without turning almost 180 degrees around!

I want to wish some very great people good luck this weekend! Here is hoping Candice can keep her leg in check, Pete makes sure Bev DOESN'T cross the finish line, and Chris.....well, I am hoping he doesn't kill himself!

Enjoy Ottawa this weekend! The weather will be great.

In A Word......

Sylvia was amazing!

Silvia is an Olympic athlete, who competed in the first ever women's marathon event in 1984 in Los Angeles, and placed 8th despite it being only her second time running a marathon!


Her talk was, in a word, FANTASTIC! Very heartfelt, with lots of good advice and personal stories on her road to the Olympics.

She also brought an 8 minute video of her Olympic run.


As much of what she writes frequently was in her talk, and because I enjoyed it so much, I've included it here.

In 1976, the Olympic Games were held in Montreal. As I was watching these games on our small black and white TV set, I was impressed by the level of excellence the athletes had achieved. I was particularly interested in athletics (the middle distance track events), and took note of the Canadian athletes competing in them. I was a young teenager at the time and had run cross-country and track in my first year of high school. However, I had a sporadic approach to training at the time. Watching these athletes caused me to ask myself some questions. What did I hope to achieve with my running? Did I just want to continue on as I had been or did I want to set some goals? I too decided that one day I wanted to represent Canada at the Olympic Games.

After the games were over, I found a scrap piece of paper in my room, wrote the date on it September 11th, 1976 and then a note indicating my intention to one day represent Canada at the Olympic Games. I didn't want to tell anyone about that goal, because I was afraid that if I failed to achieve it, I would have to explain my reason for failure to others. I did however want to keep the note as a commitment to myself. I grew up in an old farmhouse, and had floorboards in my room. I found a space between two of these floorboards, hid the note in the floor, covered it with tape (colouring it the same colour as the floor) and pulled my carpet over top of the note.From that day on I had a dream/goal, and began to work towards achieving it.

In those early years, I didn't know a lot about training, but I did know I had to be more committed and consistent. I started to get up early before school to run. However, because I grew up on a farm in the country, the absence of street lights meant that it was very dark. My mom, though not knowing about my dream, knew that I wanted to run. She would drive behind me in the car for 5 or 6 miles with the headlights on, so that I had a lit path to run in.

Running in the mid to late 70's even into the early 80's was not encouraged for girls. We had very few girls at our high school who ran, but we did have a guys cross-country team. I was able to go to high school competitions with them. The training began to pay off, and I saw encouraging results. By the end of high school I was winning provincial championships in the middle distance events and placing well in national events. Athletic Scholarship offers to American Universities, competing nationally and internationally and sponsorship by Adidas all were encouraging signs that perhaps one day that Olympic Dream would become reality. I stayed in Canada, went to U of Guelph and had a tremendous freshman year before becoming plagued with injuries. I would spend the next 2 1/2 years injured and unable to run.I finally overcame the injuries in 1983, and realized that the Olympic Games were the following year. I had maintained my fitness level with cross training activities but had to get my running legs back. By the end of 1983, I knew I was back to my pre-injury level of fitness.

It was then that I heard that for the first time in the history of the Olympic Games, a women's marathon would be offered for women. I felt that all of the cross training I had done had built incredible strength and endurance and that I had missed two years of track experience. It was then that I decided to move up to the marathon distance and try to make the Olympic Games in an event I had never done before. Four months before the Olympic Trials, in January of 1984, I got in touch with a marathon coach that I had heard about, and asked if he would help me prepare for the Olympic trials.The months leading up to the trials were grueling. I had to make major adjustments in my training which now included 115-120 miles per week and among other things 26 mile training runs. There were many days and weeks when I wondered if I could go on. God's strength and the assurance of his presence with me in this journey sustained me.

I won the Olympic Trials in 2 hours 30 minutes 37 seconds which at the time was the fastest debut marathon by a woman in the world. Winning the trials gave me the incredible honour and privilege of representing Canada at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, 2 months later, in the historic first ever Olympic Women's Marathon.I

Although it was an incredible honour and the realization of a dream to be at the Olympic Games, the intensity of what lay before me culminated two nights before my event. Darkness had settled over the Olympic village, I was sitting at a pay phone in front of my dorm having just said goodbye to my family for the last time before I would compete in two days. The swimming stadium lay silent before me. Earlier in the day we had heard our anthem and seen our flag raised numerous times as our teammates, Alex Bauman, Vistor Davis, Anne Ottenbrite and others had competed. I was suddenly overcome with great fear. I started to question my readiness, I had seen the names of the 50 women I would be competing against. They included World Champions, World Record holders, Olympians, women I had read about. Was I good enough to be here? What if I didn't get my water? We knew the heat in Los Angeles would be severe, and dehydration was a real possibility. What if I disappointed my country, my family, my coach, my community? What if I disappointed myself? what if after all the training and sacrifices and work, I didn't do what I had prepared to do?When the fear and doubt became almost too much to bear, and I wondered if I would even have the courage to get to the starting line, I knew I needed to get my bible, find a quiet place somewhere in the busy Olympic Village to pray. God was so faithful. He came. Through his word and through my time with him in prayer, He brought a peace and assurance to my heart that only he could bring. I reflected on Psalm 33 verses 11" But the plans of the lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations."

The race was one of the most difficult events I have ever experienced. The intensity of the competition, the heat, the experience of running with the best in the world in only my second marathon. I reached a very difficult point in the race when 4 runners I was running with decided to pick up the pace at about the 21 mile mark, and I was left alone to wage the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual battle of whether I could go on. I found strength in the level of preparation I had done, but even more in God's word. I knew that the thoughts of "Quit, Quit, Quit" "You can't go on!" were not words from God.

I finished 8th setting a new Canadian record, and knew when I crossed the finish line, that I had given everything I had to give; there was absolutely nothing left. I was so grateful.

There was a part B on my note in the floor. Part A was to represent Canada at the Olympic Games, Part B was to win a medal for Canada. In 1984, I was the second youngest in the field, it was only my second marathon. I had hopes of going back to an Olympic Games and believed that with more experience and more training, a medal could be possible.I set the still existing Canadian women's Marathon record 6 months after the Olympic Games . The time of my third marathon, run in Houston was 2:28:36.

Two weeks after setting this record, I was involved in a very serious car accident. I was traveling back to Guelph from a training session in Toronto. It was a stormy January 24th night. My car hit a patch of ice, I lost control of my car, and the last thing I remember, was seeing the headlights of the oncoming car. I was impacted on the driver side door, was not wearing my seat belt, and got ejected from the car. When I regained consciousness, I was lying in a snowdrift in a ditch, and then was being rushed by Ambulance to the Hospital. It is a miracle that I survived the accident. a gentleman who was shoveling the snow at the end of his driveway witnessed the accident. He read about it in the newspaper, and several days later came to visit me in the hospital. He said that he saw my body bounce off the pavement twice, before I came to rest in the ditch. My injuries, given the serious nature of the accident were not that serious, however I would miss much of the following two years of running from various complications.I did return to running and competed, however I missed the 1988 and 1992 Olympics because of injuries. In 1994, I had to make a decision as to whether to continue and try to compete in the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, or whether to retire.

I remember reading a quote at the time that said "How few of us are as brave as our dreams?" I knew that one of the things hindering my decision was the fear of it not working out. Making major sacrifices and "what if..." it didn't work. I made the decision to move to the states to train in the 2 years leading up to the games, to access excellent physical therapy and acclimatize to Atlanta weather. The plan didn't work as I had thought or hoped an after a series of setbacks I retired in the spring of 1996, without having achieved one of the main goals I had pursued since 1984.

Sylvia Ruegger

One of the HUGH bonuses of working with The Running Room is the people that you get to meet. Tonight we are so fortunate to have Sylvia Ruegger come to speak with us!

In the spring of 1984, Silvia Ruegger ran her first-ever marathon. She chose a favorite race for marathon newbies: the flat, fast course of the National Capital Marathon in Ottawa. However, unlike the rest of the first-timers who toed the line that spring morning, Silvia didn't just celebrate crossing the finish line- she celebrated getting there first, winning the women's race, qualifying for the Olympic team, and posting the fastest marathon debut by a woman, ever (2:30:37). So how did she top that? Well she set a new Canadian women's record (2:29:09) in the 1984 summer Olympics - the first games to hold a women's marathon. Not to be happy with that Silvia ran another Canadian record in Houston less that six months after the Olympics with a record to this day still stands (2:28:36).

I am really excited to hear her story and to meet such an extraordinary person. Tonight is going to be REALLY special!

May 2-4

Well the weather has been sufficiently crappy this weekend.

Colin and I have both been battling this cold that has been going around. And of course, BOTH the kids have it. They seem to be fairing well, but it makes getting out to run a bit of a struggle.

Colin and I went out yesterday together (!) and ran a strong 8+ k before we had to head home due to the heavens opening on us! It was a great run until then. We were up at Mom and Dad Francis' so it makes for a real hilly time. And we would have done the 11k we had planned if ti wasn't for the weather. But running in these conditions is something you should try to do if you can, because you are training for a race day that may or may not have the same conditions.

So Mudrun is less than three weeks away! Again, this isn't going to be a run that we run for a PB. This one is only for fun!

Not Meant To Be

Well my babysitting fell through and baring a major miracle, it doesn't look like I will be able to take the position after all.

But that is ok. There is a lot of time left and it also gives me the oppourtunity to spend time with the kids, which I love! And summer is here. We got our Wonderland passes and we are ready to go!

A New Beginning

Spring is here and new beginnings are happening all around us. Trees are blossoming, birds are setting up their new homes and Sarah has a new job!

Don't worry, I am still with the Running Room. It is so funny how things just seem to fall into place all at once.

We have been open and going strong for over seven weeks now and we love it! It is a great store and we have some great people coming out and running with us everyday. Our run clubs are packed and our practice sessions never have less than 20 people showing up.

I had called Bev, my manager, a few weeks ago asking that if I found someone to look after the kids, would I possibly be able to work some more hours. I can already hear what most of you are thinking. I would not look into this if it meant I would only be working to pay for the childcare. She asked me if I would be interested in taking on the Assistant Managers position instead. I was floored!

So after much soul searching I decided that I would take the position and I know that I have made the right decision. The reasoning behind why it was so hard is simply that I will now have to work on Sunday's. That was never in the plan, and it takes me away from Softball for half of the season. But I am more sure than ever that this will be the right decision in the future.

It is going to keep me accountable and keep my body accountable. I am now a major representative for this company and I need to make sure that I make a good impression. So running will become even more important in the future!

And who knows. If I do as good a job as I know I am going to do, someday I may become the manager of the store. And that would just become a dream come true.

The Aftermath

Well that was fun. When can I do it again?

I was feeling pretty good on Monday morning. A little stiff. But good. And like I said before, I know that I can do better, and I plan on it soon.

Next up is the Mud Run which will only be for fun, not for breaking any PB's. But I did choose a race that I thought would be perfect for trying to get a new PB for 10K.

On Sunday, July 27th Colin and I will be running The Beaches Jazz Tune Up 10k. This will be fun!

Sporting Life 10k Report

Bright and early yesterday morning I embarked with Colin and M&M down to Toronto for the Sporting Life 10K! It was my first race and it was so excited.

Except for some cold and cloud first thing, the day turned beautiful. The gun went off at eight and six minutes later I crossed the start line and off I went.

The first 5k was tough. The first 2K always suck, but my leg began acting up pretty bad. By the time I hit 5 I had to start walking. It was disappointing, but the last thing that I wanted was to risk and injury. It loosened up and I was able to start running again. I actually ran the last 2.5k continuously, although slow.

My official time was 1:36 minutes, but my chip time was 1:28 minutes (8288 overall). I was 8 minutes off my goal. But I finished and I was just so pleased!

Colin (4134) and Mark (4135) both finished at 1:00.6 minutes, but their chip time was 57:10. Good job guys!

Marlene was aiming for a 55 minute finish and kicked its butt! Her official time was 50:34 but her chip time was 49:09. She placed 75th in her age category and 1714 overall. VERY IMPRESSIVE.

So now that I know I can do it, and because this damn leg acted up, I am going to be doing another 10k soon in the future. And I am going to aim to beat my time. I know that I am capable and this is now becoming a huge part of who I am.

Some Pictures:

Colin and I at the finish

Mark and Marlene all smiles!

Sporting Life 10k

Well tomorrow is THE day. My first "official" race. And I am so excited I may puke LOL!

I am aiming to finish at around 1:20. For me, I think that might be a bit fast, but to finish with a smile is absolutley my FIRST goal. Bib 3825. Looking good!

Good luck tomorrow everyone!

9.57

Well Sporting Life is less than a week away and I HAD to prove to myself BEFORE that I might be able to complete.

And it looks like I can. Colin and I ran together on Saturday morning and I managed to run 9.57k! I was so excited. I am really looking forward to Sunday now.......

Have a great day everyone!

Wondering Where Spring Is With All This Summer In April

Well, I gotta say. I can't complain. This weather we have been having is BEAUTIFUL!

But I am going to have to start to look at how I train. See I started running in the winter. I thought that was crazy. Running in HEAT? That is a whole other ball game.

I did a strong 4k today and even managed to record a new personal best in a kilometer. But I almost DIED.

And all I kept thinking was "if it is this hot at Sporting Life in two weeks, you are going to have to scrape me off the ground."

LET'S GO RANGERS

That is all! LET'S GO RANGERS!

I've been Tagged

Marlene Tagged me, so here goes!

Rules of the game:

1. Link to the person who tagged you
2. Post the rules on your blog
3. Share seven random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog
4. Tag seven random people at the end of your post, and include links to their blogs
5. Leave a comment on their blogs so that they know they have been tagged

1) When I was five years old I went for a "walk" without telling my Mom and Dad where I was going and was gone for about nine hours. The whole police department was looking for me when I showed up at home....my picture was on the news!

2) Colin and I want FIVE children. We only have two now, so we'll see........

3) I love putting Dijon Mustard on my eggs....it tastes like Eggs Benedict!

4) Colin and I will have been together for 13 years this August! Feels like just yesterday baby!

5) I don't like people reading magazines before me. Thanks Dad!

6) I think I might want to try and qualify for the Boston Marathon before I am forty.

7) I am running the US Marine Corp Marathon next fall in Arlington Virginia!

Now here is the sad part......I don't know anyone with a blog but Marlene, but it was fun to put those facts out there anyways!

Good Weeks, Bad Weeks

We all have them; some weeks are great. You feel good, get in all the exercise you need and have an all round good feeling! Then there are the bad weeks; maybe you're injured, or you just don't feel like yourself.

This might be a bad week.

Last week was GREAT. I got out almost everyday, and ran with work to help put my manager who is injured. But Saturday I woke up with a familiar twinge in my lower back. So I was worried that maybe it was going to flare up, again!

On Sunday morning, I could barely move. I managed to drag my butt to run club, which helped very little. So now I have a name of a great Chiropractor and the next time I have the chance (which looks like mid May LOL) I will be going in and getting this solved once and for all!

Hubby

Let me tell you all a secret........I am married to the most wonderful man in the world.

Everyone that's anyone knows that Hubby is a gem. One of a kind. The nicest guy you'll meet. But he has this one crazy thing that he does. He loves me....for me.

I am loud, obnoxious and speak my mind. Colin says I am sociable, funny and smart. He has this way of making my bad qualities my good qualities.

I am overweight and feel not so good about myself sometime. Colin says I am beautiful and confident.

I am lucky to have him. He makes me a better wife, a better mother, a better woman. We are two that have become a team.

One.

That is the greatest gift I have ever been given.

Thanks babe......I love you!

Nag Nag Nag

We have been so lucky to enjoy some beautiful weather here this week, and I have been out walking with the kiddies everyday! And they both love the outdoors, so it has been fun.

My back is acting up again. Grrrrr. I find this trouble since there really isn't anything that I can do about it at this point. I seem to find it more difficult due to the fact that it is the right side of my body that is suffering, my predominant side.

So I will be going for a quick run tonight after work and off until Sunday morning. When apparently, it will be snowing.......

Gotta love this Canadian Spring we're having!

It's A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood

Well another weekend has gone in a flash and the day is gorgeous! The sun is shining, the birds are singing and DAMN it is COLD out there LOL!

The munchkins and I decided to go for our walk this morning, instead of later this afternoon and it was a chilly one! But we were out for an hour and Connor got to play at the park for a little while. The cold didn't seem to bother him much, since he didn't want back in his stroller and he did not want to come in the house when we got home!

This is feeling like a good week. I have Thursday, Friday AND Sunday off, so I will be able to get in a lot of activity! It feels great to have the winter start to go away.........but I can't help but wonder, will we get slammed just ONE more time?

Finally!

It has been a beautiful weekend, so I managed to get back out there and run my butt off. Did another 5k, which is getting easier. It was a tough run though.........

Congrats to Troy and Michelle! They had their little GIRL this afternoon at 7 pounds 8 ounces! Wonderful! Once we know the name, I'll let you all know!

Whaaaaaaaaa?

So this has got to be the most beautiful day so far this spring. I dragged out the stroller, bundled up the kids and hit the road for some much needed fresh air.

We headed to the bank to do some business, then back to the Superstore. The air was nice, but a coffee would have been perfect. Anyone that knows me, knows I loves me coffee. And I am not a snob. I will drink it from anywhere: Tim Hortons, Second Cup, Starbucks (might be a fave) and a little place here in Aurora called Zavida's.

Zavida's is a little coffee shop that always sees it's doors open and it's store full. They have over 50 fat free coffee shot options, which I love. So I can have a black coffee with a shot of vanilla flavour, or maybe caramel. Or my fav, chocolate truffle and irish cream. MMMMMM.

So I would stop at Zavida's after the bank on my way back to the Superstore. As we come closer, I can see the blinds facing the north side of the store are all down. Makes sense, the sun is right there and it must make the inside of the store pretty hot. But as I get closer....it's not blinds, it's brown craft paper. Oh, I think, they must be doing renovations. That's too bad, I really wanted that coffee. So I stop to read the sign, thinking maybe they would be announcing a grand re-opening. Here is what it said:

Dear Valued Customers:

It is with deep regret that we inform you the lease on our space has not been renewed. Our last day of business was April 1st, 2008. This comes as a complete surprise to us, as I am sure it also does to you.

It has been our pleasure to serve the people of Aurora over the past ten years. We will be back again in a new location sometime in the future. Until then, please take care.



Uh, WHAT? Needless to say, this is a shock. I can't help but wonder if the Starbucks going up on the corner on Pedersen and Bayview had anything to do with this?

I think I can!

For the first time since I started this journey, I am beginning to believe in myself.

For most seasoned runners, running 4k is nothing. But today, I went out and again managed 5 & 1's and did pretty good. It was a beautiful day and it would have been a real waste to not take advantage of Nana and get out there for a half hour or so!

While I was running, I realized that it wasn't so hard. There was discomfort, but I managed to push through it and realized it was stiff and tired, not pain. Once I got going, it felt good. And my cardio has also improved.

I am looking forward to the Sporting Life 10k. It should be fun. And being able to say I ran it at my own pace is awesome.

Enough Already

This has been a horrible winter. End of story. And it's snowing again. And the kids are sick AGAIN.

I was going to go running tonight, but the snow is coming fast and I can't leave Colin alone with the two kids as sick as they are.......so that means the gym is out. Plus running on the treadmill. GAH!

I will be more than glad when it is June and I can relax after work, or even go for a run.

Is it summer yet?

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday

Seeing as this was the first week we were open, we decided that we would have Running Club at the store this morning. Everyone in the community would come out and run like every Sunday morning.

This morning's Run Club consisted of myself, Bev, Pete, Carol and Doug. All employees! No one came out for run club. But I did 5 and 1's and ran my first 5k. I am VERY proud of myself.

On April 7th I will be once again taking the Learn to Run, this time in Aurora. Bev is teaching, and she is SO motivating. This feels good.

In A Word......

That was the most amazing night that I have ever had!

I got to work just after four and the whole place was buzzing. We were actually open for business as of ten yesterday, so there were already customers in the store. Most were buying shoes, so I was able to test out my gait analysis knowledge!

Once five came along, runners began to show up to pre-register for the race. Over 200 people pre-registered online! So we were expecting quite the turnout! The news showed and interviewed John Stanton, our founder and CEO. He's an amazing guy, and it is going to be awesome to work with him.

Colin showed up at six, and it was just great to see a friendly face. And the store was getting a little full. He picked up his number and I managed to introduce him to some of my co-workers just before the Newmarket bus arrived. By that point, I would say about 100-150 people were in the store. Louise Smith, the founder of SMA came, along with Rebecca's cousins. The president of Mizuno Canada was also there, along with the president of The Canadian Cancer Society. Once the Richmond Hill bus arrived, the place went mad!

At seven, with nine of us bunched in the counter, the store COMPLETELY FILLED from front to back, side to side and the doors WIDE OPEN with about 150 more people outside, we officially opened! John presented a cheque to the Canadian Cancer Society for over 116,000 dollars raised and then Louise Smith said a touching word.

Unfortunately, due to the fact that the place was WAY busier than they thought, I wasn't able to run. It was a bummer, but it didn't make the experience any less for me.

Colin came in after he ran and grabbed a bite, then headed home. By nine o'clock the buses were gone, the store was closed and we were officially the most successful opening in The Running Rooms history!

I knew that this was going to be more than a job for me, but I never thought it would already be so rewarding! Thank you to everyone that came out, especially my Learn to Run Clinic! That was awesome of you!

Today I am only better than yesterday! And I have taken with me an experience of a lifetime!