Still Here

I am still here...and winding down from a marathon 2 weeks of painting, cleaning, organizing, cooking and shopping. Wow! am I tired. Below are a few pictures of the fruits of our labors. They by no means do justice to the hours and days my mom and I put into all that was accomplished. I love my new "treadmill room" and with the weather staying around 30 degrees for the HIGH of most days, I will definitely be getting a lot of use out of my new room. I don't have time in my schedule to do any posting this week but I plan to re-start my running journals again sometime next week. In the meantime I am reading your post and staying motivated by your running progress and success. Keep pressing on.

I still have some things to finish in the treadmill room but that will be another time and after my back has a chance to rest. I hung a couple old race photos and a old racing bib as well as a picture of the goal "26.2" for a little inspiration while on the treadmill. My big splurge for this room is a picture of a runner I purchased at Art.com. It will be captioned with the verse that heads this blog. All of that is still at the framers. I will post a picture of it when its done.






This is the office re-decorated, purged and organized!

Happy Hilly Chilly Days

My mom arrives Tuesday for a 2 week visit! The kids and I have not seen her (other than Skype) for over a year. While she is here I am looking forward to sleeping past 4:30 am. The weather has been so nice this month and has not dropped below 40 for any of my early morning runs. It has been a gift from God to have such warm weather this time of year. But, the weather has started changing and just in time for my moms visit. My run Saturday was 33 degrees! I could see my breath the whole way. The day mom arrives it is going to be 29 degrees! My mom has always been very supportive of my running so when I asked her if she would mind if I went running after sunrise, she had no problem with that. I am really excited about getting to sleep in and run later in the morning for the next couple of weeks. Not only that but while moms here we plan to transform the spare bedroom where my treadmill is. I though if the room was pleasant to be in it would make my treadmill running more endurable. It has snowed as late as April around here so I figure I will be on the treadmill at some point. Mom and I love to decorate and keep busy so it will be a fun time. She will also do Christmas with the kids so they are looking forward to getting a few gifts early. My husband leaves for Myanmar on Thurs. and will be gone for 8 days. December is looking like a very busy month. My running plan through December is hills, hills, hills! I have been experiencing mild shin pain (only in my left leg) this month but nothing that has caused me to have to skip any running days. I'm running in new shoes so I have eliminated that as the cause. I sure would like to know if anyone has a good stretch for the shin? Any advice is welcome. I probably won't do much posting this month but will keep up with you all through reading your blogs. Below is a picture of the quilt I ordered and *kind of* (I'll be using my favorite color green instead)the look mom and I will be going for in the spare room. I found a twin sleigh bed at the thrift store last week for $40! I'll post pictures when it's done.

Giving Thanks

1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us, "in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

I am thankful for a godly husband who loves his family in both actions and words.
I am thankful that my father-in-law has turned a corner and is gaining some ground physically.
I am very thankful for the warmer than usual weather to run in.
I am thankful I have been able to run consistently with no pain for 3+ weeks.
I am thankful that my mom is coming for a visit in less than a week.
I am thankful that even though this time of year comes with many things that are stressful and disappointing I have a Rock, a steady place to plant my feet.
I am thankful that no one in my family has gotten really sick this year so far.
I am thankful for friends and blogging friends who keep my life interesting and offer encouragement.
I am thankful for so many blessings God has poured out in my life, most of all for His endless love and mercy.
I hope you all have a blessed Thanksgivings!

Where There's A Will There's A Way!

Some of you who are also friends with me on Facebook know that my husbands father was diagnosed in August with incurable cancer and has since begun serious radiation and chemotherapy treatments. With my in-laws living about 3 miles from us, this allows us to minister and help them. Last week my father-in-law ended up at the hospital suffering from side affects of his treatments as well as dehydration. Why do I bring this up? well, only to boast in the Lord of course. As you know I set about last week to begin in earnest my pre-marathon training month. November has been set aside to "see how it goes" in the pain/mileage department. But not part of my schedule was an increased number of responsibilities. My husbands father needing to be hospitalized meant that my husbands time would be stretched between home and the hospital. My husband did several overnight stays at the hospital which meant I could not run in the mornings. He also went by there after work, so time for running became very challenging. My husband who is very supportive and aware of my goals worked so hard to try and be home at some point everyday so I could get in my run. I ran several times in the evening, well after dark, and managed to run 5x's this past week. I am so thankful for a loving and supportive husband. For children who step up to the plate when grown-up responsibilities increase. For the fact my "father-in-love" is getting better. And more than anything for the grace God gives to get me through difficulties and for His intimate care that I sense each day as I run this race. I am happy to report I have run without any serious pain this past week and the marathon goal is looking more and more like a reality. My plan this week is to repeat last weeks running schedule and hopefully feel a little stronger than I did this past week on my runs.
Mon. run 4(done)
Tue. 4 (done)
Wens. 4
Thur. 4 (Hills)
Fri. off
Sat. 5

"I Think I Can, I Think I Can"

Next to the story of "The Princess and the Pea" my next favorite book as a child was "The Little Engine That Could" Who would've know how much this story would parallel my life as an adult. My life especially these past two years has been one of overcoming seemingly the impossible. If it were not for my relationship with the Lord and His Word I would not be able to reach the top of that mountain. Thank you all so much for the encouragement, advice and all around pep talk on whether or not I should make 2010 the year I see a long time dream fulfilled. First I want to answer a question asked from the last post. Yes, I have done races, many of them. The longest distance I have run is the half-marathon distance. My most common race has been the Tulsa Run a 15k. I have done up to 14 miles in training runs but it has been a looooooong time. This year my longest run has been 6 miles due to the fact I have had one pain issue after another anytime I try to extend that distance. This is one of the reasons I have been so uncertain. Thankfully it seems these issues have resolved and I can begin in earnest to work on my running. Realistically I know that if I pursue this dream I must adjust my goals and expectations. I have usually trained with the purpose of meeting a time goal or having a PR. But if I were to do this marathon I think I will just frustrate myself trying to do that. So where does this leave me? This is my plan so far. I know that the OKC Memorial Marathon sells out. It has sold out every year and this is the 10th anniversary, so I don't have a great deal of time to sit on this. In light of my current running year, my plan is to take the rest of November to see what happens when I move past the 6 mile mark. Before I can commit to this, by that I mean put down the money, I need to work on increasing my mileage this month and building up my long run distance. I feel like since I have been able to resolve the hip pain through proper stretching I can now work consistently on increasing my weekly and long run mileage. I was so blessed by your comments that I really think I CAN marathon! So here I am anxious to see how my month goes and excited for the first time in a long time to possibly be training for such a special race. I'll keep you posted!

My plan this week;

Mon. run 4 (done)

Tue. 4 (took off bc father-in-law ended up in hospital)

Wens. 4 (done)

Thur. 4 (done)

Fri. 4 (with hills,done! One more run this week to go!)

Sat. 5 (done! that last mile was sloooooow)

To Marathon Or Not To Marathon That Is The Question...

So I have actually been seriously thinking about making a dream of mine to run a marathon a reality. I like most runners want this allusive distance. I want the bumper sticker that says "26.2". I want to experience that rush and all the emotions of achieving this dream. Yet, I find myself so unsure... and I think if I am this unsure then how in the world do I think I have what it takes to do this? I keep talking myself out of trying for various reasons which, I will step out on a limb and share. Reason one is I'm too old to handle this type of training now, I know stop laughing, but the truth is I have been feeling my "age" this year more than ever. Two it would require serious winter training for the April marathon I am considering. I have run through some very cold months, but most of the time I was training with someone, so the accountability got me up and out of bed in 30 degree temps, and I don't know if I have it in me to keep plugging through the cold months. Third reason is I know how hard I can be on myself to fixate on a certain time goal and having never run that type of distance, can I keep my expectations real enough to not be faced with disappointment throughout training and the actual marathon? Okay I am feeling very vulnerable letting you all in my head...Lastly I have heard that running a marathon is mostly mental so when I consider the above I'm not sure I have the mental fortitude to do it. My husband keeps telling me that the mental toughness will come with training, and I believe that because I have seen it as I have trained for other distances, but I have had such an off year running that I wonder if I can even get to that point. You see what I'm doing??? Then there is the fear of failure, which I won't even go there... I am considering doing Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. This is the perfect marathon for me because the inspiration I need to run is built right into the race. I do love the feeling that personal accomplishment gives you, the feeling when you have crossed the finish line and achieved that goal, but that is not what drives me to get out there and put in the hard work. And that makes me wonder do I have what "it" is to drive me to do this? I don't know, and that worries me. Do I need to feel that "I have got to have this" feeling in order to take on this dream? My dilemma is, I am not convinced I can do it and are my desires strong enough to take on this dream now? So, the question is, to marathon or not to marathon?

Me and My Shadow...

Now that my head cold is subsiding I am back on the running trail and back to training our black lab Shadow. He has managed 3 days of running 3 miles each day at a good (not too fast for his mommy) pace in a healing position. I don't prefer to run with him in a healing position because the chance of him tripping me is much greater, but there are still so many people on the trails it is best to keep him close. One of my worst falls happened from tripping over my German Shepherd on a run. I still have knee trouble from time to time from that hard landing. Other than my arm being a little tired the running is going well. Shadow has really surprised me for just being 1 years old. He seems really happy when he runs and I am enjoying having him by my side. If my arm can take it I plan to move him up to 4 miles next week. Any running advice from those of you who have run with pets would be much welcomed.

Do you Know What your Running Shoes Taste Like?

Well my new running partner loves running so much he actually ingested part of my running shoe this morning. Unbeknown to me he chewed off the top eyelet section of my current running shoes!!! I use that top eyelet! I only caught him when he happily trotted past me with the insole in his mouth. I guess that was the second course. I am so sick about this I can't even bring myself to try them on to see if the damage means I have to but a new pair. They are not that old, ugh! I haven't been able to run or even walk him for a couple of days because I have had a terrible head cold. But, we will get out for a walk today! The idea of having a running partner that can eat your shoes is kind of funny, kind of...

I'm a Running Clothes Horse

Okay, I will come out of the closet and admit whenever I am in a sporting goods store or running store my heart rate rises, all that spandex and thermal stuff just gives me a rush. There I said it and I don't regret it! So being the running clothes horse I am this hat is on my list of "must haves" I have pretty long hair so in the winter I am usually pulling my ponytail low on my neck to get my hat or running head band from riding up and being uncomfortable. This hat solves the problem and its pretty too. Oh be still my beating heart!

A New Kind of Speed Work

My husband and I had promised the kids that we would get a dog this year. About 5 weeks ago we held up our end of the promise and got a dog, well, actually, ahem, we got two dogs. When we started looking at dogs we found two we really liked but we couldn't agree on which one so we got both. We purchased the dogs from a rescue group. The yellow lab is between 2-5 yrs. old and the black lab is 1 year. I had it in my mind to make one of the dogs a running partner. I used to run with my German Shepherd. He was a good companion, but died about 9 years ago, so it's been a while. So last night I decided it was time to start the black lab (Shadow) for a training run. He as well as the yellow lab have turned out to be really terrific dogs. The yellow lab is more of a 65lb. lap dog so she all snuggles and sugar. The black lab on the other hand is the athlete. I knew Shadow had it in him to run at least 2 maybe 3 miles but I wasn't sure how he would handle a steady no time for sniffing pace. So last night on the trails near our house we started his first training run. He surprised me and did very well! Everything was fine on the mile out, we could hear a few coyotes off in the distance, but on the mile back it had gotten much darker and the coyotes were out in number. The howling and barking was much closer and at one point Shadow and I realized we were being tracked by one or more coyotes. We could both hear something following us in the tall brush! I was freaking out and so was he! Our training run kind of turned out to be a speed training lesson. My husband told me I could not run with him on the trail again at night. I have no problem submitting to that! Shadow did great stayed on course and kept a steady pace. He's gonna make a great running partner!

Seasonal Groaning

Sorry I haven't posted in a while, it just seems I am saying the same thing over and over. I continue to run my 4 miles consistently and without pain. I was planning to do 5-6 miles on Saturday but missed my long run because I let to many thing squeeze out my time, things that were not as important as a good run, ugh. The weather was beautiful this week until the weekend then it got really cold. With the time change coming and winter just around the corner my morning runs will become more challenging. The regular runners will begin to thin out making my runs more isolated combined with the cold weather it will be harder to motivate myself to climb out of my nice warm bed to face the dark chilly air. I have a treadmill but find it hard to do more than 3 miles without going crazy=). I don't mean to sound like I'm complaining I just like running in warm weather so much more than winter running. I have been actually thinking about running my first marathon in April but it would require me to put in a lot of winter miles...I keep talking myself out of it for that reason and also I'm just not sure I have the mental fortitude to run that long...anyway enough about the weather and my humdrum attitude about winter running. For now I am enjoying the fall colors and mostly seasonal weather.
The changing seasons always remind me of this verse; Romans 8:22-23 "We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies".
If creation longs for glory how much more we who are His children should long, groan, for the redemption of our bodies, which will mean we will be with Christ in glory! Next time you are out running look at the trees and all of creation and think upon this verse.

Oh, How I Love Those Trails!

Yesterday, I ran 4 miles of hills, slippery mud, deep puddles and I'm going back today for more! Since my husband was off work yesterday I decided to try the 4 miles I had planned for Saturday on Friday instead. I was a little anxious to see if that lower back pain would make a showing. Actually I never felt anything in my lower back but did feel a stiffness in my left glute but it was not that bad. I could tell after my run while I was stretching that this is an area that I need to watch. I ran my 4 miles on the trails near our house which after several days of rain meant I was faced with numerous obstacles of puddles and mud. When I got home I showed my shoes and socks to my husband and he said, "those trails will make you tough" he's right. After my run we got ready to go to the Tulsa State fair. We spent about 5 hours eating our way through the fair and having a really good time just hanging out together. I am planning to run another 4 on the same trails today and hoping for the best regarding this pain.

Thinking about and sending best wishes out to you all who are racing this weekend!

Trust for Today

So I've been doing 3 miles consistently for going on two weeks and I have not had that lower back pain since! It really does make a difference when training is on a consistent basis. Toward the end of last week I started going back to the river in the morning to run because, I simply don't like to run in the evening! It has been a bit of a drive for just 3 miles but it has helped me to stay consistent. I am hoping to do 4 miles on Saturday and if this pain does not return then I hope to continue to step up my mileage again. Running this year so far has come with more challenges than I really care to think about. Some of these challenges I am sure are related to me getting older, but even so, the unfamiliarity of these issues has not been easy to handle at times. As I have struggled this year to have a "normal" running life, it has made me appreciate so much more the gift of running. I am so thankful for the joy running brings, the solitude, the time alone with the Lord, the opportunity to re-group and of course pray and sometimes even cry. But these challenges have also brought with them some new anxieties, thought about my running that I have never had to consider... the "what ifs." What if I cannot run with out some pain issue, what if I can't find that "normal" again... So I comfort myself with Matthew 6:34 "Do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble" and I press on, taking thought only on what has been given for this day and I move forward in the confidence that I serve a Great God who has a perfect plan and perfect time and perfect pace for my life.

Piper says:
Part of saving faith is the assurance that you will have faith tomorrow. Trusting Christ today includes trusting him to give you tomorrow's trust when tomorrow comes. Often we feel today like our reservoir of strength is not going to last for another day. The fact is, it won't. Today's resources are for today, and part of those resources is the confidence that new resources will be given tomorrow.
A Godward Life, (Multnomah Books, 1997) p.25

Painless=Progress!!

I am crazy when it comes to self-diagnosis! Although I am usually right on spot about it, I can get obsessive to an annoying state trying to figure out this pain or that ;D. So in my normal way of attempting to self diagnose my recent back/hip pain I concluded that it was related to about three weeks of poor running habits, not running my long runs consistently, and then trying to jump right into a 8 week half-marathon training schedule. All of the above combined is why I think anytime I ran over 4 miles I was experiencing serious pain. So this week I have set a goal to only run 2-3 miles, but to do it everyday instead of my recent hit and miss schedule. So last night (its not worth driving to the river in the morning for just a couple of miles) I ran 2 miles of hills and I have no pain today!!!! This is indeed progress although small. My friend that I was helping in the morning to get back into running has had some medical issues arise and will not be meeting me in the morning for a little while, so this allowed me to move my running schedule to the evening while I work this problem out. I still woke up at 5:15 this morning on my own, but I thoroughly enjoyed that extra hour sleep. So I am happy today with my 2 small miles of hills and hoping after tonight's run to continue to be pain free. Don't you just love how running so often mirrors life in the sense that we must keep moving forward even though at times our path can be uncertain or we become weary with what seems at times very little progress...we must continue to press on, to move forward, to not be side-lined by the difficulty of the race, by discouragement, or whatever our trials are. Our theology and what we really believe about God is lived out in each and every step of this race. I pray for you today as I do myself that we can press on toward the goal...press on past that part of the race that has already been run...press on with our eye upon that which we have been called.

Run today that you may win!

Running a Race I Cannot Register For...

Well, I return to my running blog after a five week break and not with the reports I thought I would have. As some of you know who are also friends with me on Face book we ended up cancelling our Disney trip due to the unexpected diagnosis of cancer in my husbands father. His dad was diagnosed with a serious high grade parotid gland cancer that has spread throughout his body. The Disney vacation was to be a family trip which included them. Although we could have taken the trip without them, it would have been hard to detached from the current circumstances. Cancelling our trip also allowed my husband more time and opportunity to minister to his mom and dad without the looming pressures of a big trip. Having to cancel the trip was extremely disappointing for the kids but they have had an experience of seeing faith and trust in an always good God personified in ways that will stay with them long after the thrill of such worldly amusements are gone. As of right now our trip has been postponed until April 2010 but we will see as time goes on. My husbands father is currently receiving chemo and will start radiation treatments in the next week or two. His treatments will continue until the end of February next year. This cancer is not curable but the doctors are optimistic that they can slow down the growth while still giving him a quality of life however long that is. As for the number of day well that is in the Lords hands and written in the book. Until then we are living life with a greater appreciation and a deeper faith in the good providence and dealings of our Great God. My husband set up a caringbridge site here if you are interested in reading the details. Be warned my husband is one for details...comes from his finance background=)

Okay on to running. My running has been pretty hit and miss these past few weeks due to two reasons. First issue that happened was I was asked by an old friend who just moved back here(actually my old running partner) if I would help her get back in shape and meet her in the morning for some runs. This messed up my mileage a bit because she was only able to run a few minutes and then had to stop and walk. My running turned more into walking with her. I wanted to do this for her because I care about her and really it was a blessing for me to have the companionship in the mornings. Second reason is I have been dealing with a new hip/lower back pain. This pain is in my other hip and is totally different. I had started my half marathon training squeezing it into my morning runs, when I started having this pain anytime I ran up to 4 miles distance. Although I have run on the pain it has been very hard. The pain is mostly in my lower back and radiates into the hip and even the hamstring. It is by far the worst pain I have experienced in all my years of running. I have been taking large amounts of ibuprofen to help deal with the pain and help me sleep. Reducing my mileage and taking more rest days seems to help reduce the pain but this means I will not be able to train for the Tulsa Run or the Route 66 Half Marathon. It has been discouraging to say the least and I cannot figure out what is causing it other than some inconsistency in my running the weeks preceding. Which it very well could be something that simple. If there is anytime I NEED to be able to run it is now, yet the Lord has seen fit to make this another thing in my life that I cannot control. I am a creature of habit and the past two plus months have been nothing but things, people, circumstances, taking over my life...would I have planned to return to blogging this way? absolutely not, but I would not change a thing right now because I know that to be in the center of His will no matter how challenging that is to me personally is really the most blessed place. I have this one life, this one opportunity to respond to this time in a way that will please Him. There will be other races but there may not be another time I can grow in my faith and trust and learn to glorify Him like this time. So where does that leave me?..right now, I don't know even what tomorrow will bring...if I will wake up and be able to run or if I will get a call from a needy friend or if someone dear to me will receive difficult news...what I do know is that I have a Loving Father that deals with me in very personal and intimate ways and will help me to do and live in a way that brings Him the most honor even if this was not what I had on the schedule for the day or the week or the month...
I do look forward to being back blogging and communication with you all and especially reading about how you are growing in your training and faith as we all run this race whatever path we are given. So for now I am running a race I cannot register for but it's the best race of my life...It's good to be back!

Im Doing The Same and....

I have tried and tried to find time to blog and I have come up short on both time and the motivation to do so. I will be taking a break through the rest of August and most of September.
Hopefully I will come back in late September with lots of fun pictures of our vacation to Florida. I plan to visit and will try to leave comments on your blogs during this break. I will keep you all in my prayers and think of you often as I press on both in running and in His grace.

Grace and Peace to you all,

Terri

Calgon, take me away!

It is hard to believe it's already the middle of August. Since we started back homeschooling the days are just ticking away. It doesn't feel much like summer anymore but it doesn't feel like fall either??? It is a crazy time around here and I am trying not to feel overwhelmed by all that is going on. We haven't gotten in a grove yet and it seems like nothing is getting done and things are out of sorts. I even misplaced a photocopy of my vacation "to do list" and I can't find the master list! It's almost becoming comical how upside down life is right now! For example, a friend of mine was telling me how good salt baths are for removing toxins and softening skin. So I thought I would try it. So yesterday my 5lb bag of "official" dead sea salts arrives filling my mind with visions of being like the"Calgon, take me away" lady only to discover last night that our hot water heater broke. I just had to laugh. Well on to other news...running is going better this week and I am not feeling so drained. I think part of the problem last week was I was not getting enough to eat, so this weekend I tried to be a little less strict with my food choices. I have been fasting breakfast since this difficult time has come in our lives (is it okay to share that??) and I am going to continue to do so but will be more careful to get some additional complex carbs. I have not been working on increasing my mileage but know that if I am seriously going to do a half in November I need to get moving on a more planned out schedule.
I've been enjoying reading about how everyone is doing on your training schedules and it really is a joy for me to read about how your training is going. Pressing on.

The Fruit of Someone-else Labor

This is what's on the menu for dinner tonight. I would like to say that this is the fruit of my labor but in reality this was given to me by others who are much better at gardening. I am thankful for their giving spirit! I will add some chicken for my meat loving family, but will enjoy mostly vegetarian for myself. I love eating this way.

I took the day off from running because I have just felt so sluggish this week. I don't know what is wrong if anything but I am having an off week. Even after sleeping in this morning I still feel real tired...I am hoping to feel more perky in the morning. Hope you are all having a terrific week.

Mug, Mug, Muggy

If muggy was a soup I was swimming in it this morning! I could hardly breath and had to stop and walk for a couple of minutes. It wasn't my best run but I still did 4 miles total. My mind was struggling this morning on some trials my family is enduring. Before my husband left for work he told me he is seeing God working in my life in good ways. That was so encouraging I shed a couple of tears. I think half my struggle this morning running was stress related. I feel so weighted down when I don't trust Him as I should, when I don't see that He is good and when my thoughts are not more eternal and redemptive in their purpose...I covet your prayers.
I plan to start homeschooling today to get a jump on my month since I figure we will need to take off about 3 weeks in September for our vacation. We will be studying Oceans, currents, estuaries, sea life, and the such in preparation for our trip. If I don't run out of time I would like to do a unit on Florida for 1 week, but I already feel like I've been overly ambitious in my schedule. This week will tell me a lot.
I had you gals on my mind and heart this morning as I was running and can't wait to read about what God is doing in your lives.
Love this song...

Blessed Is the One
Blessed is the one whose sins are overcome
Whom God has sheltered deep within His grace
Blessed is the one who trusts in God the Son
His steadfast love the sinner’s hiding place

Jesus, Your blood covers all my sin
Jesus, Your love draws my heart to sing
What a Savior, Jesus

I will always hide at my Savior’s side
I find my refuge in His sovereign care
When the waters rise, God will hear my cries
His steadfast love will hold me safely there

The Computer Hospital

My computer will be in the shop this week so I will not be able to post. I will miss reading about your runs this week but hopefully the repairs will only take a few days and I can catch up with you all on Saturday. Have a blessed week!

Trails, Trials and a Trip

Well, I have been extremely tardy with my posting. I have been spending a lot of my time planning our vacation in September. I am looking so forward to being in Florida. I love the tropics and the beach. It would always be my first choice for a vacation. There is something about the ocean that is in my soul. If all goes as planned we will be staying here .While we are there we plan to visit here, here and yes I am going to ride this!
My husband is planning this part of our vacation as a kind of surprise. After the almost month of trials and afflictions the Lord is taking us through this time will be a much needed rest for us. I look forward to the memories we will make.

I have been running pain free even with increasing my mileage! I know it is that stretch that is doing it. At first it really hurt to do it but now it feels good when I stretch that area. I am so so thankful to be back in the grove. I even ran the hilly trails near our house Friday and Saturday without any flair-up. The trails near our home have a certain sacredness to them. I have poured out my heart to the Lord on these more rural trails. It's nice to be back on them. I am planning to increase my mileage but very gradually and am so thankful to be moving forward again in my running.


Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Just as it is written,
“FOR YOUR SAKE WE ARE BEING PUT TO DEATH ALL DAY LONG;
WE WERE CONSIDERED AS SHEEP TO BE SLAUGHTERED.”
But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

My New Stretch with the Naughty Name

Last night we went over to a friends house for dinner and an opportunity to meet a couple of men who are visiting from Myanmar. My husband and another man from our church are going in December to visit a native missionary and his family that our church supports from Myanmar. It was really interesting and helpful to hear about the customs as well as some of the obstacles my husband and this other man will face as they go. The man that my husband is going with his wife is a physical therapist and a runner. I told her about my hip and she rambled off this super long name and told me that that was a common muscle for runners to complain about. She showed me this terrific stretch that she said they call the "hooker" stretch. I call it the owie stretch. This stretch HITS THE SPOT! I was quite sore this morning before my run, I think from doing that stretch. While I was running I ran into a friend and we ran together until my mileage was done. It was fun to run with someone but I have definitely gotten out of shape for talking and running, I was asking a lot of questions so she could talk while I was trying to breath...After my run I did my new little stretch while hoping no one was wondering why I was standing like that =D I am thankful that this stretch already seems to be helping with the soreness that I experience after a run. I hope you are all having a blessed weekend!


update: I actually found a picture of this stretch on-line that was too funny not to post. My physical therapist friend told me to lean my elbow on the wall which doesn't help this stretch to look any less silly doing it.

Sisters in Arms

What has happened to my life...I seem to have no free time and I feel like I am running from one thing to the next... I have been making random stops at each of your blogs but have had no time to reply. So this morning I am making myself get on the computer and catch up with you all, and that sounds so weird because just a few weeks ago I had to watch out not to spend too much time on the computer Facebooking, blogging and planning for our vacation to Florida in September. Oh well such is this season and I need to rest in it.

So to catch you all up on my schedule I have been running 3.5 miles consistently. Unfortunately since having recently increased my mileage by .5 it has re-irritated my hip. So I will hold on increasing my mileage any more until it resolves itself again. I wish I knew what is causing my hip to get irritated...It's getting a bit bothersome but I am trying to not let it take up too much of my mind right now.

I recently purchased this dvd to give myself something extra to do while my mileage is so low. I was specifically looking for a strength training dvd verses cardio because as I am getting older I'm becoming more, eehem, flabby. I'll let you know how I like the dvd once it arrives.

Yesterday mornings run started out a bit different. The first thing I noticed on my run was there were no rabbits out foraging like they normally are at 5am. The next thing I saw was a huge fox. At first I thought it was a small coyote, but it was a large red fox. This explained why all the bunnies were hiding. Their adversary was lurking around. I thought about the verses in the bible that talk about being on the alert and watchful. I thought about the instruction in Ephesians 6 for the Christian to put on the full armour of God so that we can stand firm in the battle. My life lately has had some very difficult battles. I am at war with an adversary that would like nothing more than to crush my faith. I have been reading "The Christian in Complete Armour" by William Gurnall. In the chapter entitled, The Saint's Call to Arms, he writes; "The outcome of the battle rest on God's performance, not on your skill or strength!" When I consider that it is the Lord who underwrites my battle then I can march on in the hope of His power. He also writes; "To encourage our trust, the Lord often intervenes in mighty ways on behalf of His people. Sometimes He allows an opposing force to arise, so that at precisely the right moment He can raise up a more magnificent pillar of remembrance to Himself. This pillar will stand in the very ruins of that which contested His power. Thus, when He intervenes all must say, Almighty power was here" Wow! doesn't that just make you want to want to say "Praise God." So today I am thankful for that visual picture on my run the other morning, and standing, somewhat wobbly at times but non-the-less with my face fixed to His strength, power and purpose in the battle. So let me encourage you my sisters or as my friend from Alabama would say my "sistas" in arms, in whatever battle you are facing "...be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might" Pressing on with you...

Pressing On

Okay this summer is already proving to be super busy. I have had very little time for posting. This past weekend I hosted a baby shower for one of our young adults. I love to decorate so I had so much fun putting it together. It was a wonderful time of fellowship and a joy for me to do for one of our young gals. Below are a couple of pictures.
I have been running pain free! I am upping my mileage this week a half mile to 3.5 This is will give my hip a chance to ease into it without putting on too much stress by adding a whole extra mile. I have a bit of a slower week so hopefully I can catch up with you all. Might the Lord be an
ever present help and comfort in your lives this week.

Running Taught Me How To NOT Spit Like A Girl...

I had a couple of titles for this post, 1. Running Taught Me How To NOT Spit Like A Girl...
2. Mmmmm Protein...

Okay so this crazy title came from me simply inhaling a bug this morning on my (3Mile) run. Something black with wings flew directly into my mouth. Thankfully, I was able to get rid of him before he was able to kamikaze down my throat. I have sucked in many bugs over my years of running and it is always so gross. As a result I have become very good at spitting while running. I know, cool, right! Not really but I thought that you needed to know this about me... Right after my run when I was walking in the front door I inhaled some other gross thing that I didn't even see coming! My husband was staring at me as I walked in the door hacking and coughing trying to get that bug out of my throat to no avail. On today's menu, bugs, icky bugs. Have you ever had a bug fly in your mouth while running? Do you try and spit it out?
I say let the spitting commence.

Running 3's (part 2)

I am starting to sound redundant, but some times redundancy is good. I am so excited to tell you my hip pain is almost completely gone!!! Praise God!!! I don't understand how I can still be running and yet experiencing less and less pain every day but I just thank God it seems to be working!
When I went running last Friday I decided to try a new part of the trail and ended up unexpectedly coming upon some hills. After clearing 2 hills I could see ahead of me there were quite a few more. I noticed right away from the first hill my hip pain kicking in and I probably should have turned around before taking the second one. This is exactly why I don't like to divert from my normal route...I am a creature of habit and change is well, change and I don't like change :D Who knew there was a part of the river trails that had hills! I plan to continue doing my 3's on my nice flat, REGULAR, I know whats coming, trail this week :D. I might try and add a mile on Saturday but I will just have to see how my hip is feeling. I am sooooo, sooooo thankful this is going away.
I have a very busy week so posting again will be at a minimum. Besides there's only so much you can say about running 3 miles unless you fill it in with lots of exclamation points and extra oooooooo's ;)
Have a great week of running or resting!

Running 3's

I have been limited on time this week to do much posting but I did want to go ahead and post my runs so far for the week. I have run 3 miles every morning this week down at the river. I have cut back on trying to increase my mileage and have completely stop all hill training until this hip issue resolves itself completely. I do not want to end up with a full blown injury so I am being very careful not to push this pain too much. I am very encouraged that even after a week of consistent running my hip issue is actually starting to ease up. I have not felt the need to take off a day in order to allow my hip some rest. This is encouraging and the first time in weeks my hip has not caused me to take a day or two off. I have also been more purposeful with my stretching and discovered that a side bend really hits that spot. I am certainly not where I want to be right now with my mileage but I am extremely thankful to still be out pounding the pavement. I know you all have been praying and for that words cannot express my heartfelt thanks.

There's No Place Like Home...

This mornings run was pretty eventful as far as weather is concerned. I watched the weather last night and knew there was a chance of rain in the morning but when I got up it was clear and just a little windy. Unfortunately it wasn't until I was at the end of my turn around that the storm started to blow in. Now I've run in the rain but not with winds this strong. There was only a light drizzle but when you added the strong winds that slight drizzle felt like needles going into my legs. I picked up the pace quite a bit. Because I live in Oklahoma the chance of a tornado is always out there and it certainly crossed my mind. Funny thing was the movie The Wizard of Oz popped in my head and the tune that plays in the background when the witch blows by on the bicycle was playing in my head also. The video below has the scene in it. It was a crazy run.

Humbling Hills

Well, my perfectly planned week of running turned out to be a bust. I took the kids to the pool on Thurs. and some how missed to apply sunscreen on the top of my feet. Needless to say my fair Irish skin was glowing red and I couldn't even put on shoes. I have been sunburned many times but never the tops of my feet, owie...I jokingly tell the kids that one day mommy will have a great tan when all my freckles merge. Funny thing is I am getting real close I must have a million freckles;).
When I went out for my run this morning I had absolutely no pain in my hip at all. I thought about Jane's comment that she was, "praying that the pain in my hip would ease completely" and how her faith worked to strengthen my own. I thought about how this was the first time in many weeks I had experienced no pain what so ever in my hip. I thought about my friend Kim who is dealing with possibly a serious injury and the patience God is working out in her life. Her example of trusting Him in this has provoked me to examine my impatience toward God. I thought about how I have been begging God for things that in reality are about making my life more comfortable. And how I have been doing so much in my own strength. I thought about how I've been trying to define my life to look and be a certain way rather than being willing to accept what Gods image for my life looks like. Gods Word tore at my pride "I will be satisfied with Your likeness when I awake" really? is that true of me? My run this morning was very emotional but also very restoring. I ran 3 miles of hills during which I started to experience some tenderness in my hip but nothing like it was and for that I am extremely thankful.

Nothing in my hand I bring, Simply to the cross I cling

From the hymn Rock of Ages

Fighting The Good Fight

The alarm clock went off at 4:30 this morning but I was already awake. I was anxious to get out for my morning run to see how it would go with my hip. A little past 5am I was starting what would be a very uncertain run. From step one my hip was in pain, but I wanted to push on to see if it would ease up some. My plan was to do 3 miles and that ended up being a good goal. I ran the entire 3 miles in pain but thankfully my hip issue did not feel worse but stayed at the same discomfort the whole way up and back. As I ran I thanked God and also pleaded with Him for the strength to keep going. I am looking forward to tomorrow and how my hip will feel in the morning. It's running times like these that I am convicted about what seemingly superficial things cause me to be weak in my resolves, and being more fervent in re-focusing on the more eternal prize. "I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me" Philippians 3:12

"Fight the Good Fight"

Run the straight race through God's good grace,

Lift up thine eyes, and seek his face;

Life with its way before us lies,

Christ is the path, and Christ is the prize.

John Monsell, 1863

Back on Track (Hopefully)

I just got done catching up with all of your postings. I know its only been a week but I feel like I missed so much...Jane's part 7 of her running story, Wendy's Marathon training starting, Mary Ann here in Tulsa and I don't even know that! Kate sounds like she's gonna do a marathon! I truly have missed the connection with you all. I was so sorry to read about Kim's injury and I shared with her that I have actually been having serious hip pain ever since I ran those stair repeats that has progressively worsened with each additional day of running. It was getting so bad I was actually hobbling around for a few days and I had to stop during a run because the pain. I took off this entire week not only because of the company we had but also the pain was bad. The good news is the pain is almost gone since I've had this unscheduled week of rest. I am hopeful that when I get up in the morning I can run with little to no pain at all. It is hard for me to be laid up from an injury. I am praying God will allow me to keep moving forward with my training.
In the mean time I wanted to show you something I made a few years ago with some old running shirts. You can tell by the dates on the shirts the 5k distance was a favorite in the 90's. This blanket has seen better days it gets used a lot for picnics. It's a fun blanket to have. The moon on the Night Light Run t-shirt(upper left) glows in the dark and is my favorite for that reason=)

A Full House, A Full Heart, A Tired Body

The missionary family that was staying with us this past week left this morning. The visit was as expected wonderfully exhausting. We had over 40 people turn out for the open house for them Saturday including our pastor and his wife. Our joy was overflowing as we shared our love for them and our desire to see the gospel spread to unreached tribes in Papua New Guinea.

Many nights this week I have not gone to bed much before midnight so I am exhausted. I have a commitment today to take the kids to the pool so I will hopefully get some rest this evening. Below are a couple of pictures from the open house. I have missed keeping up with you sweet ladies and look forward to catching up with you this week.

A Full Week, A Full Heart

What happen to May? I don't know about you but this whole year is flying by! God has really increased our ministry opportunities this year and it sure does make the time pass quickly. I will probably have short post this week as I am getting ready to have a missionary family stay with us this weekend as well as host an open house for them. Then we have our usual young adults group meeting here as well. Even though this week will be crazy busy I feel so blessed to be able serve this way. I love ministry from my home it is wonderfully exhausting! My heart is so full of gratitude for the opportunities the Lord has given us this year.
Okay, I ran 4 this morning. It was already 70 degrees at 5am! I guess those cool mornings are gone for a while.

Its About the Journey, Right?

I took yesterday off because my right calf was talking to me after Thursdays stair repeats. I wasn't expecting that. I was kinda mad at myself because I didn't realise I was stressing that muscle. Anyway I hobbled around and took Motrin on Friday. When I woke up this morning my calf was very stiff and still a bit achy. I thought I would try a run to see how it felt. I was planning to do at least 6 miles but had to stop after just 3 ugh. I wanted to do more and probably could have pushed through the pain but I just felt like that would make matters worse. So my long run turned out to be my shortest run of the week. This is one of those running times when I am reminded that running is a journey, like life it is full of lessons to be learned. I am thankful I got 3 miles in at the same time being disappointed I only got 3 in...So I must put this behind me, grow from it and look forward. Pressing on.

Hope you all have a great weekend.

The Running Redeemed

Another cool morning run. The weather here is wonderful, It was around 56 degrees and my arms were actually a little cold the entire run. I ran 5 miles at the river. After breakfast and morning devotions the kids and I went to a track at a local school and I did 10 repeats of the stadium stairs. My legs felt like rubber afterward. I plan to do upper body weights today but I am a little tired right now so my motivation is not there.
My meditations today have been on redemption, " In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace". Ephesians 1:7 My heart has overflowed with gratitude as I pondered "the riches of His grace" His sacrifice was not a response to my worth but the overflow of His infinite worth! It’s all about the worth of Christ! It was His beauty not mine! His worth, His death, brought about the riches of God’s grace toward me the vilest of sinners. "By one sacrifice there is a full remission of all sin that ever was against a believer, or that ever will be against him...not a single sin shall ever stand against you, nor shall you ever be punished for a single sin; for every sin is forgiven, fully forgiven, so that not even part of the punishment shall be executed against you” C. H. Spurgeon.
These thoughts cause my tongue to unloose and " I sing for I cannot be silent; His love is the theme of my song. Redeemed, redeemed"...

This is the first picture I've ever taken of my food or drink=) My son asked me why I was taking it and I had to laugh. But here it is anyway a picture of what I drink after a run. It's my version of a recovery drink. I blend it in a blender and drink it with my supplements.

Variables

Yesterday, I waited until my husband was home from work so I could run the hills near our house. My plan was to run 4 miles but, the temperature was already a whopping 86 degrees when I left the house around 7 pm. Needless to say I am not used to that type of heat yet. I ran 3 and it was extremely hard.

Today's run was back in the cool morning air a mild 64 degrees in comparison. My plan was to run 5 miles, I ran 4. My meditations this morning were on Psalm 46 and Hebrews 13:8. My husband read Psalm 46 to me before I left to go to the doctor last Friday and they brought me great comfort as I considered my ever present Lord. Those meditations were still on my heart as well as Hebrew 13:8 "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever". Even though I strive for consistency, my life is full of variables...one phone call from a friend in need, one unexpected doctors report, a sick child.., can throw my daily life in to a whirl of variables. But, even in the midst of these things I have a sure and present foundation! An unchanging God who is the bedrock of my hope and joy! "His love is the same; his righteousness is the same; his wisdom is the same; his power is the same. And he is not bound by the limitations of finite man so that he could ever be surprised by any of your circumstances". Piper

Double Dabble Run (thanks Kim for the cute title) After breakfast and morning devotions the kids and I hit the trails near our house and I did 2 miles of hill repeats. This makes my total today 6 miles, Yipp!

Back Home

We are back from our camping trip and it is so good to be home. Most of our weekend at Devils Den state park was rained out so it was not as fun of a trip as I had hoped. We were able to get in one hike but it was muddy and sometimes very slippery. We went camping with my husbands parents and his brothers family. There were a few times I had concern for his parents on the slippery rocks. I am thankful we all made it home without any major injuries. The park was beautiful and we plan to go back again when its not so wet.
My chest x-ray came back clear! I am praising God that this pain under my rib is looking less and less likely to be a serious issue. The doctor wants me to have a CT Scan of the chest just to rule out anything that the chest x-ray did not show. If the CT Scan of the chest comes back clear then the Doctor suggested that it might be muscular. I am leaning more toward that view as well and this would be an easy issue in comparison. So I praise Him for how He has grown my faith through this process and will continue to lean on Him for one more test. Thank you dear friends for your prayers words of encouragement and for being true sisters in Christ.
Wow, am I looking forward to being back on a normal schedule with my family and running this week and catching up with you sweet ladies in your endeavors to glorify Him in your lives and health.

The Great Outdoors

We are planning to go camping this weekend so I have been busy, busy, packing and planning. I am a planner so it has been a lot of fun to organize and put all our gear together. Since we will be out of town this weekend I will not be posting. I don't know if I will be able to get in a run where we will be staying but I look forward to doing some hiking as a family. I have my chest x-ray tomorrow and I am praying it will come back clear. I have been trying really hard this week to not be overcome with fear. I have been praying and meditating on God's precious Word to keep my mind from going crazy with worry. I know He is in control and what ever the result I know HE IS GOOD.

BTW I got the results back from the various biopsies they took from my procedure last week and they all came back negative for any cancer or other issues. The nurse said, that my insides looked rather redundant. That made me laugh. Redundancy in this case is a good thing! I am extremely thankful for the strength God has given me throughout these test and for friends like you who are wiling to lift me up in prayer.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Ultra Spiritual Man

Like some of you I've been reading the book Ultra Marathon Man. While reading I've thought a lot about a friend of ours who lives here in Oklahoma. Randy Ellis is a long distance runner who became intrigued with the life of Andy Payne. In 1998 Randy fulfilled a lifelong dream and ran across the United States. Randy ran from North Carolina to California covering 30-40 miles a day. I remember this journey in his life so poignantly and how his run was such an inspiration in my own running life both physically and spiritually. He wrote a book about his experience called;

Running with Payne: A Step-By-Step Journey Down Route 66 & Beyond

With Randy there is a spiritual element to his running that I don't read about in Ultra Marathon Man. He's a humble unassuming guy and if you didn't know him personally you would never know he ran such an amazing journey of faith. It was so neat to be a part of watching and praying for Randy as he fulfill this dream. Knowing he did it with a desire to glorify God. Now that's a reason to run!

What a Love, What a Cost!

I ran 4 miles down at the river this morning. I am thankful to be back on schedule. Looking forward to getting in some runs this week.
The whole time I was running I was singing this song in my head that we sang yesterday at church called "The Power of the Cross" I know its a bit of a slow song for running but it was perfect for where I was this morning with the Lord. I am so thankful for His grace in my life and in the lives of others and for His selfless love. What a love, what a cost!

Thankful Running

Well, today was my first run in a week and boy did it feel good! It was a beautiful day with mild temperatures in the 60's. I ran a little over 3 miles at an easy pace. I felt so thankful to be back running. I have had some mild discomfort on my right side since the procedure but it didn't seem to be an issue while running. I saw the most beautiful blue bird and had this large crane fly right over my head, it was wonderful to be back running, I know I already said that...just so thankful.

Thank You

Thank you friends for your prayers and sweet words. Each one of them meant something special and worked to point me to Him. For that I am eternally grateful. I am thankful that the prep for the procedure was not as difficult as I thought it would be. For what ever reason the prep did cause the pain under my rib to worsen and even spread around to my side. Although I didn't sleep very well Wednesday night I woke up Thursday morning with just a small amount of anxiety. My husband had to take off work so he was home to offer his loving counsel through a few tears I shed as we prepared to leave for the procedure. He told me about a sermon he had listen to recently by John MacArthur from Matt. 5 on the Beatitudes. He reminded me that I can't do this in my own strength and that I am to have the attitude of being poor in spirit. So that's how I spent the next few hours I had before the procedure, begging God to give me what I need to handle this all the way through to the finish. Once we were at the office I thought I would be a bundle of nerves but I wasn't. I could really sense the prayers of the saint working on my behalf. PRAISE GOD! Once in the back of the office it was all business and again I could see God working in the smallest of details. They wheeled me into the room finished hooking me up and that's the last thing I remember. I slept through the whole thing. PRAISE GOD! The doctor said she didn't find anything that looked like cancer but did take several biopsy's of the area. She told my husband that when ever she had the scope on the right side of my body I would stop snoring (blush, snort) and show sighs that I was in discomfort. They apparently had to increase the sedation at one point bc I was becoming so uncomfortable. She said the area was very tender and wants me to have a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvic area, although I had one a year ago. Today I still feel a bit groggy from the sedation and my husband asked me not to run but take it easy. My husband and children apparently had a lot of fun with me yesterday after the procedure while I was still foggy from the sedation. My husband kept saying, "I feel like I'm in an episode of Ground Hog Day" I didn't understand what he meant but apparently in between the naps I took yesterday I would wake up and ask him the same questions over and over =) I don't remember anything after the procedure, yet I was awake. I don't know how I got dressed, or being wheeled out to the car in a wheel chair, or stopping by Sonic for something to eat...I told my husband I apparently wasn't in my right mind or else I would've ordered myself a Butterfinger Blast ;) even the kids got in on the fun of my temporary amnesia. Thankfully this wore off after a few hours. But in all seriousness I do praise God for your prayers, for His grace and for the normal results of this test. I can't find the words to express enough how your prayers and thoughts touched me deeply and in some wonderful way brought glory to Him. You have shown His love to me a stranger and I am deeply moved. Thank you. At this point I have another chest x-ray scheduled for the 22nd and I am hoping that this will come back normal. And if it doesn't then I know God will give me the grace to handle the next step of this race. I am praying for wisdom to know how far to take this and how many repeat procedures to do. I can't wait to get out for a run this weekend and sweat out some of the drugs that I can still feel in my system. Thank you all again for your thoughts and prayers.

Have a great weekend of running!

Need your Prayers

Well, you might have noticed I haven't posted a run in a couple of days. There are a few reasons why and even as I type I'm not sure I'm going to publish this post. I am a pretty private person when it comes to certain issues in my life. But I feel a connection with you gals thorough our blogs and the faith we share. I already feel like I share a special part of my life with you through our bond of running so I wanted to open up to you about this as well. I went to see a specialist last Friday to discuss this pain under my right rib. After her examination of the area she decided I should go in for this pretty invasive procedure to see if we can pin point the source. I am scheduled for this procedure this coming Thur. and honestly I am extremely anxious about it. I am not so worried about the results, so much as the prep and procedure itself. I also have another chest x-ray scheduled for the 22nd. I am hoping that between these two I will have some idea what this could be. It was actually a chest x-ray they did last year that started all this in the first place. I will admit I have drug my feet on many procedures they have wanted to do because I have never had any medical problems and it has been extremely hard for me to submit to all the poking and prodding. But I have promised my husband that I will address this issue. What has been the hardest about this is that I am not comfortable talking about it and since I have not had to deal with medical problems personally I feel disjointed and uncomfortable with this being a part of my life. But the reality is this is right now where God has me and I am not doing a very good job submitting to it. The knees of my faith feel shaky and the lack of control I feel has me anxious. So I NEED your prayers! Pray that my faith would be strong. Practically pray that I will just sleep through the procedure Thursday and not be overly anxious. As far as running I didn't end up running Saturday or even Monday. I can't seem to mentally get past the circumstances I find myself in, yet I know that I would feel better if I went for a run. I plan to get a run in today because I know it will help me. I feel ashamed for my lack of faith and that is probably why I hesitate to share and expose myself in this way fearing that I will dishonor my Lord in some way. So again I covet your prayers that my faith will be strong. I know His grace is sufficient and will be in ready supply through this ordeal. More than anything the deepest longing in my heart is that I will not be an unfaithful servant and somehow in my weakness He will be glorified.

April Showers Bring May Humidity!

I ran 4 miles of hills on Friday at 6am. It was very humid and already 80 degrees! I was a puddle of sweat and soooo thirsty after that run.
My husband had a men's breakfast at church this morning so I'm hoping to get a run in later today, if its not crazy muggy by the time he gets home. I might have to wimp out and do the dreadmill...we will see.

Hope you all have a great Mothers day!

I'm Such A Dork!

Okay, I bought these cute black Capri running tights a few weeks ago. You know the ones that fit your legs tightly and cut off at the knees. They have this nice little zip pocket in the back where I can stash my key or small items. When I got to the running trail this morning I went to stash my key in the zipper pocket and could not find my pocket! I know weird. Well, I couldn't find the pocket because I had my PANTS ON INSIDE OUT! I tried to not be obvious as I looked around to see who else was noticing my plight while making a quick assessment on how many noticeable inseams were sticking out. I thought about changing in the van but that was not going to happen. I decided to go ahead and run and hope that no one would notice. Of course I just happen to be on the brightest part of the trail when several runners passed by me while all my inseams glistened from the lights of the casino. Uggh, I'm such a dork! Oh I managed to get 4 embarrassing miles in. I'm laughing at myself now but it wasn't funny then. I have never run with my pants on inside out and I will never do that again, evvvver!

Deja vu

Well I had the same weird sleep issue last night except I couldn't fall back to sleep until 4am this time. When my alarm sounded just 30 mins. later I did a lot of moaning and the excuses raged. But again I got up and down to the river. I ran another 5 miles. I hope tonight is better. On a lighter note I saw 6 bunny rabbits, heard 2 horned owls and passed 21 runners. I know you probably think its weird I count but I do this for my kids. When I come home from a run I give them an inventory of what I saw. It's fun to involve them in my running time like this. We can be in the car driving past the river trails and they will say "isn't that where you saw the bald eagle, mama?" These are the types of messages I want my children to hear when it comes to being healthy. It's not about body image its about experiencing something much deeper much more spiritual and beyond myself...

Below are some pictures of the river trails I run.

There are over 23 miles of trails that travel along the Arkansas River. Some are well paved against manicured lawns and some like the picture on the right are more natural. Below is the new River walk. This area is actually on the west side of the river. I run across a bridge that takes me over to this area.


I feel very blessed to have these trails within a short driving distance from my home!

Was It all Just a Dream...

I woke up this morning at 2 am and could not fall back to sleep for over an hour (crazy hormones). My alarm clock went off at a startling 430 am. Drowsily I stumbled over to hit the snooze button which sounded again a mere 9 minutes later. I had every excuse going in my head as to why I should put off running until later. But I know myself and that "later-land" never happens. Somehow I managed in my sleepy state to get dressed and down to the river for a run. I shuffled along for 5 miles. It was a brisk morning with NO RAIN! When I got home I took a short nap. I am thankful I pushed myself and ran despite the sleep issues. I know these are the types of things I need to do in order to become a better runner. Pressing on!

Rain on my Parade

There is nothing amazing about my running this week except that it has been a trick to get a run in, in light of the fact that it has rained everyday since Monday. My run today was 3 miles on the treadmill and nothing exciting. I am thankful that I got it in. Looking forward to sunnier days ahead! With all this rain I couldn't help but to think of this verse.

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. Matthew 5:44-45

Hope you are all having a great weekend of running!

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

When my alarm went off at 430 this morning I could here the down pour of rain and lightning. I have run in the ran a few times and once while it was lightning by accident, which I will never do again! So I knew right away running was out. Had it not been that my alarm clock is across the room I would have pulled the covers up and fell back asleep. Anyway it finally stopped raining today around 4pm woo, hoo and I got a easy 5 miles in. I tried the Vita Coco after my run and I must say it was delicious, like a tropical drink. I felt like I was on vacation on an island somewhere. Okay maybe not but it was yummy. I want to post about my recent discovery of coconut milk later.

Todays Run

My husband took off work today to study and prepare for teaching Wednesday nights service, so I was able to sleep in a little this morning and then go for a run. I ran 8 miles on the hilly course near our house. It was tough today and I even had to stop and walk a few of the uphills. I don't know if it was because I'm not used to running that time of morning or what exactly it was. I also went to my favorite grocery store in Tulsa called Wild Oats Whole Foods Market. I love this store! I went to get the usual, but decided to stop over in the drink area to see if they sold sports drinks. I found this all natural product called Vita Coco. It sounds fantastic and "has more potassium than 2 bananas" in one serving. I had not heard of the use of coconut for hydration until someone mentioned it on Kim's blog. Apparently Fresh coconut water is loaded with electrolytes, making it a great drink for athletes and just about everyone. The sugars in the drink are natural and not the processed type, so I don't think it will give me headaches that sweeteners and sugars do. I bought two different flavors. I can't wait to try it! I also found a similar drink while looking called Zico but thought I would try the Vita Coco first.

Beautiful Morning

I got up at 4:30 a.m. so I could drive to the river to run this morning. The weather was gorgeous in the low 60's and a nice breeze. I had enough time to run 5 miles before heading back home.

An off Week

Well, my running this week was pretty minimal...I wanted to run a lot more than I did, but three doctor appointments later and other commitments my week was shot. I did squeeze in 5 today, but the new shoes shortened that run. I will be sending them back for a 1/2 size larger! Thankfully tomorrow is a new week...I have only one doctor appoint this coming week and its for my son to see his ortho so this week should be a lot less hectic. Pressing on!!!

I hope you all are having a great running/racing weekend, I can't wait to read all about it!!

A Loooooong Day

I had a doctors appointment this morning with my new female doctor. I decided this year I was switching over to female doctors for my physical stuff. What was suppose to be a 1hr physical exam turned into 2 hrs. I had a lot of blood drawn and also a Tetanus shot. I have another appointment on Friday where I am going to have my hormones checked. I don't like to go to the doctor but look forward to knowing where I am internally and being proactive in my health.
I ran 4 miles yesterday but have been drained today after the appointment and decided to make it a rest day.
My new Asics arrived today and they feel great. I met the UPS man in the yard and gave a big YIPPEE when he handed me the box, he didn't even break a smile. Do ya think he's delivered to crazy women getting new running shoes before=) I can't wait to try them out!

"to run my own race"

Like a lot of you I watched the Boston Marathon yesterday. Oh, I so wanted Ryan Hall to win. In a post race interview Ryan was asked what his strategy was for the race. His answer was, "to run my own race". Later that day during my run I thought about his comment. I thought about the verse that heads this blog and Hebrews 12:1
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.
The Christian life, described as a foot race, a race to be run with strenuous effort and single-minded aim. God has given each of us a race to run. I cannot run your race and you cannot run mine. This is our own personal race, no one can run it for us, we must run our own race... Running my own race requires steady, intense concentration or focus. I cannot afford to become distracted by things off to the side of the course or look at what the guy is doing in the next lane.
I was on the edge of my seat watching the women's race of the Boston Marathon. What a dramatic finish! Not once did those three women stop fighting to win. I love the scene of Kara Goucher taking off her gloves, symbolic that she was in a fight. Even when it was obvious she had been out kicked she didn't quit, she ran her own race right to the end.
I thought about how my reaction to trials and afflictions so often leave me unsteady in my race. Rather than run I retreat. The sword of affliction raised buckles my faith...
We as Christians run for imperishable crowns. Might we today run our own race, boasting only in the cross, magnifying Christ and glorifying our Creator.

KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE FINISH LINE!

Ran---4+miles
Course---Hills
Time---40:00(approx.)

Sports Drinks

The topic of sports drinks can be daunting. There are so many choices, but are they all created equal? My personal experience is no they are not. In the past I have become dehydrated either by choosing the wrong type of sports drink or from being reluctant to pump my body full of the sugars found in most sports drinks. I have over the years learned that my body needs some type of replenishment and the science behind these drinks does offer some real help in this way. "Variables such as the length of your run, the temperature, and your pace affect what you should drink. For workouts that are about 30 or 45 minutes long, a few sips of water will usually do the trick. But for runs closer to an hour, it's important to choose a drink that has the right combination of water, carbohydrates, and electrolytes compounds such as sodium and potassium that help your body retain fluid."---Runners World
I know that after a long or hard run I will notice my skin has a white or salty layer of film. This is known as "electrolyte-sweat". It is critical to your body to replace these electrolytes and minerals.
A good sports drink should provide:(in an 8oz serving)
14-15g Carbohydrates
110mg Sodium
35-50 mg Potassium
Most of these can be found in your local grocery store, such as Gatorade, PowerAde, Gleukos, Cytomax. I have not mentioned the different gels out there because my experience with them has been minimal. I did have a GU pack on hand and looked at the carb, sodium, potassium ratio and found it was low in the sodium, only 50mg based on the above equation.

Here's a link to a video at Runners World that covers this topic:

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1430551072?bclid=1515735608&bctid=1834405155

7 Miles

Today was an easy 7 mile run. My plan was to run 8 but I could not find the mile marker near the turn around point, which I thought was kind of funny. They were doing construction around the area where I thought it was. I know I ran over 7 miles but not sure how far past. My left foot was hurting and my two middle toes on the same foot were numb by the end of my run but nothing I couldn't deal with. I think its time for some new shoes...I actually took my i-pod with me which is very rare. I have several songs downloaded from Sovereign Grace Music. It was wonderful to reflect on God in this way during my run.
Distance---7+ Miles
Pace---Hard to say with the missing mile marker=)
Time---1:15

Deers, Rabbit, Coyotes, Oh My

I decided to go for a run last night on my hilly course. I wasn't sure how much of this trail I could cover. The trail has various hill about every half mile. The hills range from short and steep to loooong and gruelling. These trails parallel farm fields and residential homes. Its not uncommon to see cows and horses but I was surprised to see 4 adult deer all together. They were running just like me, but in the opposite direction. I could hear the coyotes howling in the background. For a minute I thought maybe I should be running the other way too=). Shortly after that I saw the biggest jack rabbit. It was a regular wildlife zoo out there last night!
I ended up doing 6 miles of hills! I am not timing myself right now just because I am working only on distance and hills until I build up my leg strength and base mileage again. After my run I inhaled the most delicious Texas grapefruit (thanks for the citrus idea Kim!) and looked for my mace to take with me next time.
I am looking forward to a FLAT long run Saturday. Hope you all have a great weekend of running!

Distance---6 Hilly Miles
Pace---Much faster when I heared the coyotes=)
Time----Approx. 1 hr

A Tough 4.5

I really struggled during my run this morning. I think my legs are still getting used to the pavement. As much as I don't like the treadmill it does give my leg muscles a break. But since the weather has been so nice I want to be outside running. I have also told myself I will not buy my Garmin Forerunner until I am running outside consistently. I ran into a couple of friends this morning out running so that gave my mind a break for a few minutes from the fatigue my legs felt. It was so wonderful to see so many people out on the trails before sun rise this morning.

Easy 4

Since I ran last night and also did hills I decided to do an easy 4 today. I'm looking forward to a wonderful week of warm temperatures in the morning. I hope you are all have a great week of running.

Ran 5 Hills

I ran in the evening today instead of this morning because I wanted to run this particular trail that is hilly. The trail doesn't have lights so I have to either wait until my husband is home from work or it gets light sooner in the morning. Anyway this was a hard workout about 5 hills total and I'm tired. I am so thankful that my husband supports my running and is such a godly man to our family.

Book of the Month

I have read sooooo many books on running I thought it would be fun to share some thoughts on them with you. These are only my opinions and not meant to be reviews. My first Book of the Month is: Run Fast How to Train for a 5-K or 10-k Race. Written by Hal Higdon a veteran in the running community. The book is full of interesting stories and personal experiences. Although this book covers the shorter distances it stresses the need for longer distance and long runs as the key to any successful program. I would classify this book as a technical book for the everyday runner. It can be used as a training tool for the more serious athlete but is not too intimidating for the "regular" runner. I bought this book in the 90's when I was trying to improve my 5k times. During my training runs I would regularly see this local runner who I knew was very fast. He was actually shorter than me, but won many of the local races. One of the things I noticed about him, was his stride length. He ran low, quick short strides. Since I saw him regularly out on the trails, I began to try and mimic his stride. It not only made me faster but made my running more efficient. This topic is covered in length in chapter 5 "Form Enhancers". This book takes the technical science of training to an easy to understand analysis. I like to review the advice and tips in this book when I begin to get a little lazy in my form and training habits. Although I would not recommend this book to train for longer distances it is still a wealth of information in the science and art of running and that is why its my book of the month. See if your local library has it!

Ran 6

I ran 6 miles today down at the river. It was a wonderful break from the treadmill. I'm looking forward to the weather getting warmer so that I can continue to up my mileage. After the winter on the old "dreadmill" I am eager to hit the trails again. Running at the river means I must run past a casino that was recently built next to the running trail. This place stretches about a mile long. You really have to watch the traffic at this spot. The place is like a modern day Sodom and Gomorrah. My heart breaks for those people who are wasting their lives in pursuit of things that have no eternal value. I prayed for a woman I passed on the trail as she was leaving her work at the casino. I am so thankful for my run today and the beautiful weather.

Have a blessed Easter

Old Blog New Idea

I really didn't keep up with posting much on my blog so I took it off public profile for a while. I have decided to take another try at this whole blogging thing by making my blog a place to keep a journal of my weekly runs as well as share some books and other information as I am learning and continuing on with my running journey. I hope we can encourage one another to not only press on in our running but in our faith and love for the One who strengthens us in the journey.