Gimme gimme gimme

Christmas is right around the corner, and like any red-blooded American, I'm ready with a very detailed Christmas List for all my friends and family. Since I consider you all my friends, I think it's important that you have my list too. I'm considerate like that.

1. Now, who doesn't love a little Coach in their life? My current keychain is a plastic Colorado Buffalo keychain that doesn't even play the song it used to back in the day. Not sure if that makes it better or worse. Anyway, it's time to upgrade.

2. If the pages of Lucky magazine have taught me anything about fashion, it's that layering little silver necklaces is tre chic. Especially a mix of expensive and inexpensive pieces. This little Tiffany bow would be the perfect addition to my collection.

3. Work out stuff? Oh don't worry, I want plenty of that too. Apparently arm warmers are all the rage. Not only are they badass looking (and even qualify people for Boston!), but they seem fairly functional all well. Sign me up.
4. I'm actually pretty excited about my very own pair of cycling shoes. I've been sort of borrowing a pair from a friend for races, and they aren't quite my size, and really, sharing shoes is kind of gross. There's no doubt I'm sticking with this triathlon business, so it's more than time for my own shoes.
5. And last but not least, these sunglasses are straight up sexy. I want.

I accept gifts until January 1, so there's still plenty of time to get to shopping!

Lifting (again)

After last week's return to lifting and subsequent whining and soreness, I figured I was ready to get back at it and make this a part of my workout routine. Mapping out a plan with circuits and reps seemed like too much mental effort after a draining day, so I defaulted to my favorite DVD to let someone else dictate my workout:Ah, Jillian. How I love your butchy workout clothes and hack therapy sessions with people bawling about mommy issues while exhausted and slung over treadmills. Don't ever change, hon!

But back to 30 Day Shred. I got it last year, and it's not bad. It's certainly not a viable substitute for a long run (or any run, in my opinion), but if you're just getting back into lifting, it's 10 degrees, and you're looking for some instruction so you don't have to think, it's pretty good.

I generally do workout 2 and 3 together, and the best part is all the push up work. I used to be able to do a decent amount of real push ups, but, well, I have a long way to go at this point. It's not pretty.

My least favorite part (which may have annoyed me so much it's looped back around to amusement) is the total slacker lady in the background. You know the one. Not the one with the sick abs, but the super tall girl Natalie who half-asses everything. Everything! Jillian does make a few comments about the slacking, so that makes me feel a little better, but you know she's just dying to clinch her teeth and unload.

Anyway, I did a much better job stretching before and after this time. Unlikely that this DVD will ever make me "shredded", but I'd say I'm just about perfectly sore and quite pleased with my mid-week effort to get back into lifting once and for all.

Thank you, rich people

I was pretty excited to run on Friday afternoon. The weather was great, my body felt good, and work didn't seem like much fun. My only dilemma was figuring out where to run. We had gotten a foot of snow that week, and since most of my route is streets and non-residential sidewalks, I knew it would be covered in snow and just too dangerous.

My first thought was the bike paths and trails around town. Unsure if they would be cleared, and knowing I wouldn't have time to drive around a check before dark, I sent out a few feelers to people who might know. Responses ranged from "I don't think so" to "AHAHAHAHA", and I knew I was out of luck. (Way to keep that reputation strong as a crappy running town!)

Assuming I'd just figure something out, I rushed home, bundled up, and took off along my usual route through the neighborhood. About a mile and a half into a slippery run though Really Rich Neighborhood Next to Mine, I noticed a path to the trail around their little lake. Hmmm, could that really be plowed? Could I be that lucky?

Yes! It was perfectly plowed, perfectly scenic, and perfectly one mile. And just when I didn't think it could get much better, I crossed a footbridge they had covered in holiday garland and bows!

I ran around that lake several times Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. One mile circles are a little monotonous to do much longer, but it's been wonderful this weekend. Hopefully the snow melts soon, but until then, I'll continue to love rich people. Who knows if any of them have taken advantage of the plowed and decorated trail, but that insane association fee they must pay each month is certainly appreciated by me.

Lifting is a bad idea

First, thank you to everyone who so kindly welcomed me back to blogland and thought/worried/inquired about me while I was gone. My hiatus had nothing to do with turning 30 (which is shocking given my propensity for the dramatic), but I'm happily back regardless.

I've been running as usual, but as I exited my 20s last month, I figured I should start lifting again. I stopped once racing season started in the spring, and I know the ol' metabolism isn't what it used to be back in college. Apparently running, and only running, isn't going to give me those sculpted arms and back for next summer. Who knew?

Well, Tuesday was the day. Tuesday was the day I would begin incorporated lifting back into my workout routine to build some muscle mass and keep that weight in check for the rest of my grown up life. Tuesday.

All this week was spent traveling for work, and the hotel had a very nice workout room full of plenty of free weights. Perfect. I walked down first thing in the morning with my little bottle of water, Shuffle, and filled to the brim with motivation. I spent a couple minutes stretching (my first mistake) and got to work doing all the basics. Three sets of 10: A little bicep curl, some tricep dips, a few chest flies, lunges, squats, etc using mostly 5lb hand weights. Nothing too crazy.

I neatly put everything away and spent a couple more minutes stretching. (Also, a very large mistake.) After a quick shower and productive/tiring day, I went to bed quite pleased with my morning effort. Also quite convinced I had paved the road to a lifetime of athletic success and someday cougar status.

Until the next morning and every single excruciating moment there after. Holyshit am I sore. S O R E. Like everything. It hurts when I laugh, it hurts when I sit, and don't even get me started on stairs. Screw 30, I'm like 100 right now! Worst. Idea. Ever.

What I really need to do is get out and run to kick some of this soreness, but the city has basically shut down since it's so cold and snowy here. School has been closed for three straight days. Shoot, they even shut down the mall. I hate running inside, but I'm almost desperate. Drugs and whining aren't curing me as fast as I need, and it's kind of getting embarassing trying to hobble around.

Oh, hello December

So you know how you get almost 80 comments on a post? Make everyone wish you a happy 30th birthday and fall off the face of the internet for almost a month. Really, try it some time.

Life got to be a lot for a few weeks, but I think I've picked myself up and rejoined society again. And it true blogger form, I'm recapping the last month in bullet form before I trot off to read the 554 posts looming on my Google reader. Since last we talked:

• The husband and I celebrated our 5 year wedding anniversary. (With cake. Obviously.)
• I ran in 68 degree weather on a Tuesday and 18 degree weather four days later. (Never change, Nebraska!)
• In true xc2 form, I hosted my own Turkey Trot run on Thanksgiving morning. Guess what? I won!
• I had two Thanksgiving celebrations with either sides of our family. (If you've never had Thanksgiving feast cooked by rural Nebraska folk, you are missing out.)
• I got a pasta maker for my birthday and have been a noodle-rolling fool. (Full report to come.)
• I made a Christmas list full of sweet run and workout gear. (Full report to come on that too.)

Can't wait to read all the fall race reports from everyone!

Turning 30

So today is my birthday.

Today I turn 30.

POOF! CONFETTI CANNON! YAAAAAY!!

Right now I am curled up happily on the couch with...

...a tummy full of Mexican food.

...two bouquets of flowers delivered to me on my kitchen table.

...my Recovery Socks on after a fantastic speed workout with running group.

...a kitchen full of fun-fetti cake AND pumpkin TCBY. (You wouldn't think these would be tasty together. You would be wrong.)

...a DVR packed with dancing reality shows waiting to be watched.

...an IN box, voice mail, and letter holder stuffed with birthday wishes, cards, and love from all the wonderful friends and family in my life.

Not sure what I expected, but turning 30 has been a pretty damn good day. I may just go ahead and do this every year from here on out.

Weekend smiles

Hopefully everyone had a lovely weekend. I had a good weekend. A really good weekend. Nothing particularly remarkable, just a relaxing, productive, enjoyable couple of days.

The highlights:

1. Saturday AM run
I survived the 5:45AM run date and greeted my running buddy with something other than, "I'm so miserable." Those were the first words out of my mouth the last time we ran together. Pleasant, no?

Most of the run was spent laughing, giving each other crap, and me having no clue where we were. Like, I thought we were going north when it was really south. Maybe? Still not sure. There's a reason I don't run in the dark. No good comes of it.

I had to take two naps on Saturday to recover, but it was a fantastic time. Running buddies are really the key to making one get up and run that early. Never would have done it on my own,and I'm glad I did.

2. Football
We aren't really Husker fans in our house, (sacrilege around here, I know) but they managed to win a big home game, and that seems to lift the spirits of the entire state.

Our house is a Colorado house. No clue how that happened, but The Husband loves him some Buffs. They are struggling a bit recently (an understatement), and it was apparently my fault for not wearing my jersey on game days. Shame on me. I wore it loud and proud most of Saturday, and they finally managed a big win. You're welcome, Hawkins.

Pic of us from last year before yelling "f*ck 'em up, f*ck 'em up, GO CU!" 800 million times and loving it every single time.

3. Food
The Husband is in charge of cooking on the weekend, and let me tell you, this man can cook. Saturday was an all day lasagna with bolognese sauce, fancy bread, and veggies. It was amazing.

I also had TCBY with one of my awesome girlfriends and her adorable son. White chocolate mousse and pumpkin swirl. Damn near licked the cup clean.

4. Pre-birthday
My birthday is Thursday and my parents had a little party yesterday at their house. No need to wish me a happy birthday quite yet. Save that for Thursday when I have a giant attention-whory post all dedicated to meeeeee.

My sister was in town, and per usual, my family did an amazing job of making me feel special, loved, and so lucky to be surrounded by such happiness and support.

I'm traveling this tomorrow for work, so hopefully my chipper attitude will translate into a few AM runs in new places without getting stolen. Have a great week!

She reads

I was never a reader growing up. In fact, when I was home for the summer during elementary and middle school, my mom would have 30 MINUTES READING on the daily to do list. Instead of reading real books, I'd pull out every single thing from the pantry and read boxes and jars for a half hour. In retrospect, a.) that's pretty half-assed, but b.) kind of an admirable loophole for a kid to find, but c.) it did lay the ground work for my current very happy career in marketing and branding. I consider it time well spent.

When I got done with grad school a couple years ago, the same question came up over and over, "what are you going to do with all your free time?" I always had two answers:

1. Get back to running every day

2. Read books

Number 1 was easy. Number 2 would be a challenge. I'd been reading text books and business books in school, but never just curl-up-and-read books. It started slowly with a few more business books recommended by colleagues, and suddenly I found myself trading back and forth and always having something to read. Have I become a reader? I think I might be! (Although, I'll still reach for my Us Weekly first when hour six of football starts and I'm looking for a distraction. Let's not get too crazy here.)

No clue why it took me so long to get interested in reading running/nutrition books since it's a big part of my life and happiness, but I'm all over them now. I've taken a few recommendations from many of your blogs and I'm looking for more.

What running/nutrition books do you recommend?

Here's what I've read so far:

1. In Defense of Food

I loved this book. LOVED. It was the perfect mix of history, science, instruction, and justification. I already ate pretty well, but I've made some significant modifications to my diet based on this book.

2. Running with the Buffaloes

This was good too. I kind of wish it was a team of girls instead of a team of boys since I identify with and very much miss that female team bonding, but it was pretty enjoyable.

3. 100 Mile Diet

Are you watching that 100 Mile Diet tv show? You should. That's the first I've heard of it, and it's basically eating only foods grown within 100 miles of you. Nebraska is a pretty good place to do it in the summer/fall, so I'm anxious to give it a try next year. Certainly not for 100 days, but I think a meal a week is very feasible. The book gets a little preachy at times, but it's a quick read and fairly interesting.

So what else do you have for me?

On a running note, I have a run date tomorrow morning at 5:45. 5. 45. On a SATURDAY! Who does that? I'm only tell you all this because if I don't come back next week, it's because I'm still sleeping on the side of the road some place and people need to come poke me with a stick and make me go to work.

Yay capitalism!

I love stuff. I love new stuff, sale stuff, free stuff, just about any kind stuff. And when I can pair that love with my love of running, well, somebody hold me up. What have I been up to lately? Working, living, running, and most notably, acquiring stuff.

First, the awesome folks at Thriv were kind enough to send me an adorable top to test out. The company makes all natural fabric workout clothes made of bamboo, organic cotton, and elastane. No clue what "elastane" is, but it all combines for a super soft, comfortable, wicking top. We'll see how it holds up to a Nebraska August run, so far so good though.

I do wish it was a little longer, but I think that about 90% of all shirts made. It has a supportive shelf bra, and I always like that. Excuse the cheeseball laugh below. The Husband came into the kitchen just as I was taking the picture. "Are you takin-- you know what, never mind..." Look at this logo too. Come on, it's a cute little panda! I'm a sucker for well done branding and the whole website is pretty good.

Next, a new box of shoes was waiting for me at my door when I got home. I wanted to love my previous pair of Brooks, I really did, but the sole wore down way too quick. Off to another brand still hoping to find The One. Hopefully these Pearl Izumis hold up. They're pretty reflecty if nothing else. No one is running over my feet, that's for sure.

And finally, my most favorite new purchase is this Nike long sleeve, hoodie-type thing. (It's long enough, and that's just about all it takes with me sometimes. )

I guess you're supposed to work out in it since it has thumb holes and is at least partially wicking, but I wouldn't. I would however, wear the hell out of it at the grocery store and any other place I want to be casual, sporty, and fashionable.(And yes, I'm stretching that Halloween manicure out as loooong as possible.)

XC2 turns one

Today is my bloggy birthday! Fun-fetti cake for everyone! I know everyone says this, and I've said it before too, but I honestly never thought I'd stick with this for more than a week, much less a year.

This blogging and running community has been so good for me, and thank you all for being one of the favorite parts of my day. I've gotten more encouragement, support, motivation, and entertainment than I ever imagined. I feel like I have all these new friends all over the world who feel the same crazy passion for running as me.

I figured I'd celebrate the occasion with a little stroll down memory lane. Here are my 5 favorite posts from the previous year.

5. How I got here

This was my very first post, so I felt compelled to include it. It was neither funny nor containing pictures, so it's amazing anyone kept reading. I try to at least include some pictures these days to make up for my pathetic attempts at the funny.

4. Fun with stick figures
Come on, don't you want to read the story that goes with this stick figure? (It's a wonder I still have a job some days since I spent an hour at my desk in the middle of the afternoon one day creating this post.)

3. PCC Triathlon race report

My first triathlon where I decided to do it six days before the race, had no idea what I was doing and managed to win my age group. It was definitely the first of many tri's in my future.

2. Srry

Classic cougar tale of schooling the neighbor boy and chicking him in life. (Not to mention it was my first 50+ comment post. Woo hoo!)

1. GG Marathon race report

Training for my first marathon was what got me into blogging in the first place. I've read so many inspiring, emotional, motivating, and straight up funny marathon race reports from all you, and running one (and writing about it) has been one of my proudest accomplishments.

Thanks again for writing, commenting, and making running way more fun over the last year than it ever would have been otherwise.

Race pics

First, the Under Armour jacket was indeed safe and sound under the road cone after the race. Clearly you were all very worried. Happy to hear your priorities are the same as mine. I knew you were my people.

Second, thank you all for the virtual hugs and virtual bitch slaps in response to my whiny report. Both were needed and appreciated.

Third, nothing like reliving the highs and lows of race day with some pics. RunnuRMark (who had a fantastic race) mentioned he spotted me. This was his comment:

yeah, it was BEFORE you crossed [the finish]...and I won't lie, I could see those last 5 miles on your face :)

Temper it with a smiley face all you want-- ouch. Also, it turns out, quite true. Rough batch, to say the least. Here are a few of the semi-cute ones:

I mentioned I wasn't prepared for the cold. Well, this was my cold weather gear.

One pathetic blue glove. ONE.

Which I threw away at the half way point before turning into the wind and instantly regretting it.See, don't my sad little hands look cold? Perhaps that's why I'm carrying them up by my arm pits?

Oh look, a quasi-smile! Don't worry, it's fake.I spent most of the race doing this. Pulling down my shirt and giving the side eye to people in full-on winter wear. (Dude, is that fleece?!)

Thank you finish line. (Oooh, look at that quality chick job. Okay, that makes me feel a little better.)

To quote my mother: You look cute a button, hon, but I probably won't put them ALL on my Facebook page if you don't mind.

Good call mom.

KC HM race report

I marinated a day and a half on this report hoping to improve my attitude about the race before typing it out. Turns out, nope! Still pretty damn disappointed.

The short story is 1:52:04 and a 1:30 PR, but the long story is that's about 7 minutes slower than I wanted to run.

I ditched work early on Friday to drive down to Kansas City to meet up with my sister, pick up my packet, and go out to eat with her adorable boyfriend before going to bed early.

The drive to the race was dark, cold, and slightly raining, but my biggest concern was the time. She lives right on the marathon course, so a million roads were closed with the Plaza/start line packed and nuts to navigate. We pulled off right before the road block for me to jump out. Tick tick tick. But wait! Mom wants a picture!

This was taken as the national anthem was being sung. Actually, this was the second picture taken. Apparently the first one was not cute. (She was right too. That's why God gave us sisters. To correct such things in life.)

After the second picture, the anthem was over and I was pretty panicked. One quick hug from her, and she drove off.... with me still wearing my jacket. This was not a throwaway jacket. This was my most favorite, wear everywhere, security blanket jacket. Should have known it was going to be that kind of day. I quickly stuffed it under a road cone and crossed my fingers it would still be there in a few hours.

The race itself was very hilly and very cold, and I wasn't as prepared as I should have been for either one. No race plan, way under-dressed, out too fast, blah blah blah. The first miles were 8:15, 7:18, 7:50, so you can estimate how the end went to end up with my final pace. The last 5 miles were miserable. Miserable.

The event was organized, the volunteers wonderful, and the course lovely, but I won't be running it again. It chewed me up, spit me out, and aside from finally being done, wasn't very fun. Although this little one took fantastic care of me and always makes me laugh.

The trip was a success, but I just know I'm running better than that. Way better. Saturday just wasn't the day, and KC just wasn't the course. There will be more races, however, probably not this year and unlikely for awhile. I need to get some crap sorted out and I just wanted to go out better than that.

Today was a consolation run though. It was sunny and warm for probably the last time this year. Miles 1-3 were at recovery pace, but I opted against turning home and instead turned on the gas. My quads were shredded from yesterday, but the rest of me felt great. I ended up running 10K with the last three miles at 8:20, 8:10, 7:55. What should have been race pace. I will be unable to walk down stairs tomorrow, but I needed those last three miles. I needed to feel sweaty and powerful instead of shivering and weak like I did yesterday.

Congrats to everyone who raced this weekend and killed it. Can't wait to read all your reports. Running and racing is a blessing, and while I'm currently pouting about my rough one, I haven't lost sight of that.

Girly Girl

The husband is feeling slightly sick, and with Saturday's half marathon coming up, I can NOT get a cold. Even if that means not running in the windy rain this week and going to the new gym by my house on a visitors pass to swim.

I managed to get dressed and make my way to the little 3 lane pool area. One foot in, and woah, the pool is crazy hot. Like, 84 degrees hot. Bathtub hot. Man, good thing I wasn’t doing a serious workout, or I’d have died. I’m sitting on the side having just put my pink swim cap on and adjusting my goggles when the door to the main workout area opens up and two guys walk in. (The wall between the pool and lifting area is totally glass, so everyone can see back and forth.)

Guy 1 walks right over to me and while he isn’t huge, but he has a cut off t-shirt, lifting belt, and weight gloves, so he’s a quasi-meathead. His dorky friend hangs by the door a few feet away. This was clearly not his idea to come talk to me.

Guy1: Hi. Is the pool warm today? (leans over next to me to reach in and splash around)
Me: Yes, it’s hot actually. Uncomfortably so.
Guy1: So what are you a professional swimmer?
Me: Nope. Triathlete.
Guy1: Swimming, biking, and running, huh? Which is your best?
Me: Running.
Guy1: How fast do you run?
Me: I do more marathons and half marathons than sprints.
Guy1: Like, how fast can you run 2 miles?
Me: Well, I’ve never done that. I did run a 5k a few weeks ago in 22:30ish.
Guy1: How far even is that? Is that fast?
Guy2: It’s 3.1 miles, and yeah, it’s pretty fast for a gi—
Me: Pretty fast for a what? A girl? Thanks a lot.

I was quick to laugh, but poor dorky sidekick was bright red and DYING when I called him out on it. That’s why he will always be the dorky friend.

Now while this is going on, there's another conversation I was having in my head. I’ve briefly touched on Regular Niki (RN) vs. Athlete Niki (AN) in the past, and while I fully realize the third person is obnoxious, it’s just easier to type that way.

RN uses her car seat warmers when it gets below 50.
AN runs outside until it’s 10.

RN is girly and squeamish and wouldn’t get in a lake if someone was drowning.
AN is willing to risk life, limb, and bacterial infection for a race t-shirt.

They are (mostly) mutually exclusive personalities and often at odds.

I’m sitting at the edge of the pool in my non-descript black/blue Nike one piece and just put on the cap when these guys walk in. The conversation above happens while the conversation below happens inside my head:

RN: Oooh! Boys!
AN: Get rid of them. We’re working out.
RN: But, but, boys.
AN: Work. Out. Now.
RN: Crap, did I shave my legs today?
AN: No. Ha.
RN: I have to get this stupid cap off!
AN: Absolutely not, it took forever to stuff your hair in and get it right.
RN: I’ve seen pictures of myself in it! It’s not cute! And I have such pretty hair!
AN: The cap draws attention north and keeps them from staring at your stubbly legs at least.
RN: That was mean. I can’t be charming looking like a pink alien!
AN: It will be totally obvious why you’re taking it off. Don’t be That Girl. It stays on.
RN: Off.
AN: ON!
RN: OFF!!
AN: ON!!!
RN: OFFFFFFF!!!!

*cue music and slow motion video*

Rip off unflattering cap
Shake out hair like a shampoo commercial
Tilt head to the side, smile, and commence conversation

Chalk one up for the girly girls.

M2M Relay Race Report

The 2nd annual Market to Market Relay was yesterday, and for the most part, it was a fantastic time. The weather wasn't as terrible as I feared, but 10 degrees warmer and a little sunshine would have made it even better. People would have mingled more between stages instead of stayed huddled in the vans.

Here's how I packed the night before.

Sheesh, it was like packing for a week long vacation. Four sports bras, four socks, three Under Armour shirts, three pants, two shoes, two pairs of gloves, and various items to keep me comfortable and entertained between stages. Not to mention all the food.

Despite my best selective weather watching, this was the scene as opened the garage at 4:45AM.
What I failed to capture was the screaming wind and near white out conditions I had to drive through to get the meet up point. Fun, no?

I only knew a couple of team members, so after introductions, we were off to the start line with 150 other teams. I was stage 4, and honestly, I don't remember much of 1-3. It was way too early for me. But soon, I could sit warmly in the van no more, and it was my turn.

5.0 miles, 7:46 pace

Thankfully my stage was along a flat, cornfield-surrounded trail. It was cold, but the wind had calmed and the snow was beautiful. One of those "this is why I love running" days. I felt great. Loved getting back into the van when I was done though, don't get me wrong.

My next stage was supposed to be 3.5 miles. See, I'm quite happy about that. As I'm standing there, that orange flag volunteer behind me announces, "this stage has changed, it's clearly marked, but it's 6 miles now."

Quite a few teams were making changes to split it up or trade people out, but no way I was bailing. I was feeling too fantastic after the first run. Apparently obnoxiously cheesy as well.

After six very hilly miles, I could see the town water tower still quite a ways in the distance. Not happy. It was 6.61 miles, which FYI (otherwise awesome) volunteers, is NOT the same as "6 miles".

6.61 miles, 8:10 pace

I spent most of the late afternoon eating, chatting, and sleeping before being poked awake to knock out my last stage. Tired, stiff, and hungry, but my spirits were very lifted when I realized my route was along the same trail I used to run every day in college. Such fantastic memories of that time in my life when I was figuring out who I was and who I wanted to be. Did a lot of good thinking along that trail.

2.95 miles, 7:55 pace

Shortly after, we made our way to the finish line and all crossed together.

89 miles, 21 stages, 11:40:58 finish time, and awesome matching singlets.

With the extendo-leg, I finished the day with 14.44 miles and 53.8 miles for the week. More than I planned with a half marathon on Saturday, but it felt fantastic to run like that, and hopefully I can duplicate that feeling and pace next week.

But let's talk about the piece de resistance of the whole day: The long anticipated Razz meeting. (Well, there was that one stalking incident, but this was less dark restaurant and parking lots and like, a real meeting.)
Conclusions:

1. Miller. Genuine. Draft. Ew.
2. He's taller in real life than I thought.
3. He's really nice. I know, color me shocked too!

Just keep clicking

If you've ever talked to a Nebraskan for more than 10 minutes, you likely talked about one of two things: A.) Husker football or B.) the weather. We love talking about the weather. Love it. Especially heat and especially snow. The big Market 2 Market relay race is Saturday, and I've received no fewer than five e-mails from fellow racers with weather forecasts. They were all a little different, so I figured I'd do some research of my own.

Let's see what The Weather Channel says. They have their own channel. They must know what they're talking about. High of 37 degrees, 70% chance of snow, wind 15 mph.

Snow?! Well, since every woman on that channel is busy growing a baby right now*, they're allowed a certain degree of inaccuracy. That can't be right.

How about NOAA. That's run by the government. I'm encouraged.
High of 39 degrees, 60% chance of snow, wind 17-22 mph.

Not much better. Let's keep clicking. (Come on internet, don't let me down.)

High 41, 30% chance snow, no mention of wind.

Ding ding ding! I think we have a winner! And who am I now considering the Gold Standard of news and information at this point? Fox. Yep, I'm that desperate to not be cold and miserable during this thing.

On the off chance Fox isn't right, I'm getting pretty ready:

• The pants, gloves, and hats have been drug out of the closet and stuffed into my bag.
• Books have been borrowed to keep me busy (since an Us Weekly takes 25 minutes to buzz through.)
• The trash talking points have been brainstormed, captured on 3x5 note cards, and laminated.

As an update, Razz has already swung with a classic pre-race sandbag (typical) and over-compensating for his Garmin inadequacies. Please. I think we all know how this will end. Feel free to submit pre-orders for your championship commemorative book and DVD now. It comes with an adorable XC2 sweatshirt.

Good luck to everyone racing this weekend too. Can't wait to spend another Monday reading race reports and not working.

*Although I will shamelessly steal his jokes.

So that's a 5K, huh?

Thanks for all your tips on how to actually run my first 5K yesterday. Wow, they're over fast. I can't say I'll ditch distance training ever, but I certainly see the appeal of quick and dirty. This was a pretty good one. I alluded to it before, but I did have some unscientific goals.

C goal: finish and enjoy the day
B goal: 24:00
A goal: 23:00
A+ goal: 22:11 (my MN friend's time)

Those Race for the Cure folks put on a great race. My friend E and some other Boji girls were in charge of all the volunteers, and they did a fantastic job. A race that big (especially with so many non-regulars) isn't easy. Everything was super organized, thoughtful, smooth, and really focused on what was important that day.

The weather was supposed to be sunny and cool. Thank goodness for the sunny, because it was 35 degrees cool. I get my chip, warm up for a mile or so, and make my way to the start line. Who do I happen to see? Coach! I've mentioned it before, but I can't go fast by myself. Only with Coach on Thursday night run group can I get myself going with any speed.

"OMG OMG OMG! IT'S SO GOOD TO SEE YOU!! HOW FAST ARE YOU PLANNING TO RUN TODAY? CAN I STAY WITH YOU PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE?"

(Yes, I talk like that before races. I get a little spazzy when nervous.)

Run Coach was one of the top AG 5-10K runners in the state before he had a massive heart attack last year. He's slowly back to running, but he has a very narrow window of temperature, pace, and exertion he must follow. Thankfully, that usually coincides with my full-out effort.

He said his goal was 7:45-8:00 miles. I knew I wanted to go faster, but since I'd never actually run that fast for 3 miles, I thought it would be good to hang with him for at least the start to make sure I could do it.

Go!

Most of the first mile was crazy down hill and we were flying. It leveled out, and his pace didn't slow much.

Me: (sucking air) Um, we're going at a 6:52 pace. (sucking air) Did you know that?
Coach: Really?
Me: (still sucking air) Are you supposed to be going that fast?
Coach: My heart rate monitor says 87 bpm....but maybe it needs to batteries.
Me: YA THINK?!

Mile 1- 7:09

That's a faster pace than any 800 I've ever done. Thoughts: this could end badly.

The next mile was mostly this conversation:

Me: Are you doing okay? (sucking air)
Coach: Yeah, fine.
Me: Okay, because we're no where NEAR 8:00!

Repeat, repeat, repeat.

Mile 2- 7:21

Better. I guess.

The last part was back up a lot of the hill from the first mile, and I was equal parts sucking air and trying to remember CPR from my life guarding days. Unfortunately, when all I really did was get a tan, flirt with boys, and not pay attention to silly things like CPR class.

...please don't have a heart attack... please don't have a heart attack... please don't have a heart attack...

Either of us, really, since I was dying.

Mile 3- 7:29
Mile .1- :40 seconds (6:52 pace)

The finish line! The glorious, glorious finish line!

Final stats-
22:39 (7:17/mi)

12/300ish chipped Female

4/61 AG

I was soooo excited. I never ever thought I'd run it that fast. After confirming he was feeling just fine, I thanked him profusely, briefly met his lovely wife, and parted ways happy to know that unless I can get Coach to pace me for every 5K I ever do, this may be my lifetime PR.

Perfect weather, great cause, super volunteers, a damn speedy race and back home to run 8 more miles (in preparation for my upcoming relay and half maraton) before The Husband is even awake. Man I love fall.

(Super congrats to everyone else who raced this weekend. I've spent half my day reading all these exciting race reports. Work Shmork!)

Racing for the Cure (and tagged)

I've run quite a few races this year, and I can't think of a better cause than Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on Sunday. While cancer hasn't directly effected my friends or family, all the stories of success, strength, heart, and fight I read are inspiring. If me running a 5k to support this great organization helps a teeny tiny bit, sign me up!

With that being said, I have no idea how to run this. I've never raced a 5k before. There's a goal time dancing in my mind, but it's not based on anything scientific and I have no idea if it's even doable. Basically it's what my friend ran in Minnesota that I'd kind of like to beat.

Any suggestions for a race strategy? Fly and hold on? Keep the reigns on the first half? There will be 15,000+, so the first mile may be slower whether I want it to be or not. What kind of pace should I plan relative to my repeat 800s? I'll take any advice.

Also, super cool Jess at Run Girl Run tagged me because apparently my blog is tops. (Duh.) Thanks Jess!

Answer the following questions with only 1 word answers...

1. Where is your cell phone? purse
2.Your hair? brunette
3. Your mother? nutty
4. Your father? hilarious
5. Your favorite food? pizza
6. Your dream last night? odd
7. Your favorite drink? water
8. Your dream/goal? family
9. What room are you in? family
10. Your hobby? running
11. Your fear? dark
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? happy
13. Where were you last night? home
14. Something you aren't? short
15. Muffins? yum
16. Wish list item? purse
17. Where did you grow up? Omaha
18. Last thing you did? eat
19. What are you wearing? sweatshirt
20. Your TV? big
21. Your pets? none
22. Your friends? awesome
23. Your life? great
24. Your mood? happiness
25. Missing someone? slightly
26. Vehicle? Accord
27. Something you're not wearing? socks
28. Your favorite store? grocery
29. Your favorite color? pink
30. When was the last time you laughed? dinner
31. Last time you cried? Tuesday
32. Your best friend? lovely
33. One place that I go over and over? fridge
34. One person who emails me regularly? husband
35. Favorite place to eat? Pancheros

I tag anyone who needs something to write about. Anyone who reads here is tops too.

Stacking the relay deck

So I've been promoted from "committed alternate " to legit team member for our Market to Market relay team next weekend.

Yay! But... whoa. All the downside things I kind of thought about are rapidly becoming crystal clear. I'm going to half ass an already half ass blog strategy and condense his issue bullets with a relay like this:

• The Stench Factor
• The Boredom Factor
• The Annoyance Factor

All excellent concerns, and I share each of them. (Thankfully I don't smell, can sleep anywhere, and never ever get annoying to people.) I'll add my biggest issue though:

• The Competitive Factor

This relay was originally sold to me by run group captain as "super laid back" and "no one is going to take this serious" and "we're just having fun". Okay, okay, I can buy into that. I run with the boys at running group and have long established my running cred with everyone there. No need to show off in front of these people.

Oh but wait! Running captain has invited some running buddies to supplement the team and you know I Athlinked them .5 seconds after I saw their names on the e-mail. Here's just a few resume highlights from our three newest team members:

• 3:06 marathon
• IM Coeur d'Alene
• 3:19 marathon and 10 hour IM Louisville LAST MONTH

Yeah, I'm sooooo sure these guys are going to "not take this serious". Especially with each other and girls in the van. We've been accused of basically hiring college basketball stars as "interns" to stack the company intramural team, and um, kind of guilty.

And, AND, if that wasn't enough of a reason for me to actually put forth some effort, this clown has been talking trash. Normally I'd brush it off like a gnat at a picnic, but he kind of threw down a 10K PR last weekend. (I'm pretty sure he cheated somehow, but still.) Understandably he's been dying to meet me, and I'd like to make a good first impression.

Sheesh, maybe I should start doing some speed work or something? Although with the race 10 days away, shouldn't I be tapering? Best to just stress about it instead of doing anything, I always say.

Alumni Softball Ga-- THUD!

Driving to Friday's annual alumni softball game against the current team, I had one goal for the night. One.

Do not get hurt below the waist.

Having not pitched or hit in about 365 days, I knew my arms and shoulders would be sore, but with three races the next three weekends, I couldn't afford to twist, pull, strain, or break anything on my legs.

I get there plenty early and spend the first 15 minutes stretching and catching up with these lovely ladies from back in the day.

Another round of retro pics:

The best pitching staff in the conference.

Hello, Arizona. Hello, hottie coach.

While we were 95% hugging and chatting about weddings and babies and 5% actually warming up, this year's team on the other side was serious. Ah, the energy of youth. Full on uniforms, batting stations, and a full infield practice. As to not be stood up, we figured we should take some grounders too.

The first ground ball to come my way: Bounce... skip... (funny) hop-- THUD!

SSSSSSHHHHHHHHIIIIIITTTTT!

Right on my ankle bone. I didn't even touch it with my glove. It takes about 90 seconds to swell to the size of a, well, softball while I hop and drama around. Unbelievable. During warm ups. I get hurt during warm ups in the one place I needed to keep healthy.

I managed to suck it up and end the evening with a spectacular 0-2 performance at the plate and 1 2/3 innings of shut out pitching before giving up a monster home run to end the game. (I'd like to think I just earned that girl a spot on the team.) Excellent time though.

I took Saturday off since putting on socks hurt too much and iced like a crazy person. Sunday was a little better, so I managed to make it out for most of my planned long(ish) run. Not bad considering I ran on this for over 10 miles.

I have 6 days before my first real 5K, so this cankle better stop throbbing real quick.

10 years of hearts

**Caution: Mushy squishy post ahead**

Today is the official 10 year dating anniversary for The Husband and me. 10 years together! 10!! That's more than 1/3 of my life. Craziness. Can't believe it's been that long, but at the same time, it's been wonderful. Couldn't be happier. He's honestly perfect for me, and I can't imagine life without him.

We both attended the same small college and met as teenagers at some random party at his fraternity house. Romantic, no? We'd crossed paths several times around campus (including once in the training room where he sat on the table next to me in full football pads, sweaty, tan, and unbelievably sexy) and started officially dating a year later when I pursued the hell out of him at another party and complimented him on his blue blue eyes. (Our kids WILL get those eyes some day.)

Here's our first picture together taken together a month after we started dating. Nice couch, huh? That's fraternity house chic right there and I don't even want to know what's been done on it over the years.

This was my 20th birthday that happened to fall the same night as "Handcuff Party". Yeah, my Gap sweater, ponytail and minimal make-up are seeeexy.

Isn't he adorable? Yeah, I know.

This was my last college softball game and one of my favorite pictures. I loved this night. (At 5'8", it takes a lot to make me look/feel petite. You better believe I married someone who is big and tall and all masculine meaty.)

Wait, does he kind of look terrified below? I just noticed that. It was the night we got engaged and he kind of looks all, "what the hell have I done!?" Guess he showed up on our wedding day and is still around, so that's good.

And now. So happy.10 whole years of hugs, kisses, love, and laughter, and I can't wait to see what happens next.

Boji

I spent an amazing weekend at Lake Okoboji with these 15 lovely ladies. The weather was perfect, and we had a fantastic girly time. My friend E invited all the girlfriends in her life to make the trip to her in-law's house on the lake. We spent the day doing this... (that sa-weet farmer's tan on the legs up front is all me!)...and the night doing this.

There may have been some serious eating and drinking in between too. (And yes, I wore that pink sweatshirt for 3 straight days. Hell, I'm wearing it right now.)

I did find time for 8 sunny miles around the lake on Saturday morning. Pretty impressive pace for me too. A couple miles were along the half marathon course, so it was fun to pretend to be racing. Even ran through a couple church camps. That counts for God points, right? Like I actually went to church?

I knew most of the girls, but since it was E's friends from all over, there was plenty of new faces for everyone to meet. It's always cool to gather a collection of new people. Especially this group of interesting, funny, smart, ambitious, and crazy fun girls.

I was most fascinated by one of the girls' job. She's a food scientist at the R&D department of a major food company that owns brands like Healthy Choice, Banquet frozen meals, and Chef Boyardee, and she's in charge of developing new products. (She also brought a literal bucket of free nacho cheese to much fanfare. That may have beat the puppy chow for potluck winner of the weekend.)

Having read In Defense of Food this summer, I'm super into analyzing processed foods and being much more aware of what I consume. I tried not to bother her with a million questions about preservatives and artificial everything, but what a cool job. She told us all about these new vegetarian soups she's developed, what constitutes "meat ingredients" on a label, and a few things about Chef Boyardee that make me thank my mom for never giving it to us. Overall, it's been added to my top 10 dream jobs.

Hopefully we'll make this an annual event because it was a GREAT time. Weekend success.