First race after baby

A few weeks ago, Chris and I ran our first race as parents!  The training went decently...until I went back to work and then I was only running 1 day a week and going to body pump 1 day a week.  Certainly not ideal race prep but work with what you have :).  

I started running 6 weeks after Henry was born (after being cleared by my midwife).  The first few weeks were a little rough and very slow.  I could certainly still feel the looseness in my hips, lost my cardiovascular endurance and I was achy after running but things steadily improved!  Another challenge I faced were "the girls"-I have to invest in larger and more supportive sports bras and had to pump directly before the race.

Most of C's family ran the race too, which made it really fun!  I ended up the same pace as my mom and we ran together for most of the race and finishing just over an hour with a 10:30/mile pace....not my best but certainly not bad.  

Chris originally signed up for the 1/2 marathon but dropped down to the 10k because of some hip issues and pack if training.  Danielle wrote a great race recap here: (http://justanotherdayinthepark.blogspot.com/2013/05/a-family-that-runs-together.html?m=1).  

I love that health, wellness and fitness are family activities!  Can't wait until H is old enough to ride with us in the jogging stroller-only a few more months!

Race day:

Pre-training race with Henry:

Goals for 2013

2012 was a busy, busy year for us and I have a feeling that 2013 will be too.  As I think about my goals for the year (I'm a big believer in setting goals/intentions/having something to strive for) the most obvious one is, of course, to have a healthy baby!  I think becoming parents will be our most challenging and rewarding role yet and am looking forward to it and meeting our little one in February.  I'm sure we will have a lot to learn in adjusting to our new roles and attaining balance in our family.  This of course will be our number one priority for the year to come.  That being said, I couldn't help but come up with a few others for the year: 

• Start running again/complete a race!  I've missed cardiovascular workouts since I've been pregnant and am looking forward to getting back to running (especially with our new BOB jogging stroller-thanks to C's family!).  We've already got one planned, the Cleveland Rite Aid 10k.  C's family is coming into town for the race and to celebrate May birthdays.
•   Get our house into order.  We've been in our new house for 6 months and there are very few things on the walls.  I don't want to just slap things up so it's ongoing process for us to get settled and to make everything feel like "home".
• Find a balance between being new parents and our jobs once I return to work after my 12 weeks of maternity leave.  I love my job and want to make sure that I'm able to balance my role of new mother and my current role at work.
• Continue learning and educating myself.  Just because school is over doesn't mean learning is-but I'm glad I don't have to read any more ops or accounting texts now that I've graduated.
• Become more involved in our community and volunteer more-I want to focus on giving back to our new community and enjoying all it has to offer.
• Focus on blogging and learn what our readers are looking for (another post to follow).

I think these goals will keep me busy in 2013 :)

Congrats to Chris!

As promised, here is a photo of C's graduation!  I'm so, so proud of him for working hard these last two years to complete his MBA and transition from the Army life to a civilian one (I think he made the transition very well!).  There have been many late nights, lots of group meetings and even some conference calls.  Now that grad school is behind both of us, I'm looking forward to our next adventure together (i.e. moving this week)!  

Chris in his cap and gown. The should braid is because he's a
veteran.  He also graduated with 2 chords, one for his seat with
Fisher Board Fellows and one for his case competition
participation.

Running Update:

Day 15-2 miles + hot yoga
Day 16-2 miles + body pump (tonight)

Week 2-Complete!  Total to date: 30.27 miles

The Mig Sangira

Yesterday, I made The Mig Sangria (as in Amigo Drive, my dear friend Lea's house) for C's graduation celebration!  Yes, we are now a 2 MBA household!  I did a terrible job taking photos so once I get my hands on some, I'll post.  Any-who, back to the sangria that Lea and I concocted on Amigo Drive while we were waiting for Chris to get home from Afghanistan (we also played drinking games with C's family but that's a story for another day!)  It's a fun, fruity drink made with moscoto so it's very light and is perfect for summer!  Here are a few photos of our fun-loving friend who we are so blessed to have in our lives!

Caitlin, Lea, Missy, Sonya

Brian, Caitlin, Sonya, Lea

Alison, Sonya, Missy, Lea, Caitlin, Christie

Sonya and Lea

The Mig Sangria

1 bottle moscoto wine or your favorite white wine (I buy a cheap and bubbly one, like Barefoot)
1/2 cup Triple Sec
1/2 cup Cran/Grape Juice or any other berry juice
1 cup Sprite or Seltzer water
2-3 cups mixed berries, cut into small pieces (strawberries, cherries, blueberries, raspberries)

Cut up berries and soak in Triple Sec over night in fridge.  Chill remaining ingredients in fridge.  Before ready to serve, combine all ingredients, stir and serve.  Soooo easy!  Enjoy!

What are some of your favorite summer cocktails?

A running update:

Sonya-the streak lives on!
Day 12-3 miles
Day 13-1 mile (graduation day, I barely had any time to run at all!)
Day 14-3 miles

Chris- not so much!
C decided that he wasn't enjoying all the running and has taken a hiatus.  He has been spending lots of time on the golf course instead :)

Running streak continued!

Day 10
Sonya 2 miles
Chris 3 miles

Day 11
Sonya 2 miles
Chris 2 miles (with a blister from the golf scramble)

With all the heat and the running, I wanted to mention hydration. It's oh so important to get enough fluids, especially on hot days. My rule of thumb is to take your weight in ounces and divide by two to find out how much water your body needs. So a person weighing 100lbs would need a minimum of 60 oz of water.

National running day!

Today, the first Wednesday in June is National Running Day! Check out more here:

http://www.runningday.org/

You can celebrate by....running of course! C and I will be this afternoon to continue our streak.

I RUN to be healthy and to relieve stress. Why do you run?

RW Running Streak-1 week down!

Yesterday, Chris and I did a quick two miles- 1 mile warm up, 3/4 mile HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training- For us, it's sprint all out from one light post to the next and the walk to the next one, repeat.  It should smoke you even though it's a short workout.) run and 1/4 mile cool down.

Today, Chris and I ran 3 miles at a leisurely pace.  You know, gotta mix it up!

After the first full week, I've ran 10.27 miles and Chris has ran 12 (I'm being geeky and have a spreadsheet going).  It will be interesting to see the totals at the end of the month!

So are you participating?  How are your runs going?

Wedding Prep Weekend!

 Last weekend, I hit the road and headed to Pittsburgh to spend a few days with one of my dearest friends to prep for her wedding!  Kelly and I met at Ohio University, where in the same fraternity (yes, you read correctly, fraternity.  As in co-ed service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega.  We did good and had lots of fund doing so.) and she was my roommate and partner in crime in my London study abroad adventure.  I had so much fun spending time with Kelly and being a part of her bridal shower and bachelorette party.  Here are a few photos of my fun, fun weekend:

Thank you tags to go with the party favors

After I arrived, we made a little grocery store run and then started baking cupcakes for the shower, Corona and Blue Moon Cupcakes.  We were up until midnight baking these puppies. Yes, they were delicious.  Yes, you should try them.

Kelly, Bride-to-be, making some
 Corona and Blue Moon Cupcakes.  They were tasty!

Ready for the oven

Let the beer basting begin!

Starting the frosting, why yes,  that is 12 oz. of whipped
cream cheese. 

 The next morning, we headed out for an interval run and then got ready for the shower (which was held at a lovely restaurant called Table).

Beautiful Guest of Honor!

Our finished product!

 After spending the afternoon at the shower, being pampered with Mani's and Pedi's, and some afternoon drinks, we headed to downtown Pittsburgh for the bachelorette festiveness!

Our view from Bar Louie

After enjoying some drinks and dinner at Bar Louie, we headed out for some dancing.

There were fireworks after the Pirates game,
they didn't translate well into photo.

The bachelorette party: (L to R) Sonya, Tamme, Kelly, Kelly,
Annie and Lisa in front

Such a fun, fun weekend.  So glad to be able to spend it with my dear, dear friend and get to know some of her fabulous friends!  Can't wait for her big day in a few weeks!

Weekend fun

First thing's first, here are our running stats:

Friday- we both ran 1 mile

Saturday-

Sonya- 3 mile run + yoga class at V Power Yoga.  I've been practicing at this studio for about 6 months and will be sad to leave it.  It's a great workout and I would highly recommend Power Yoga, a mix of strength and cardio.  

Chris-3 mile run in his new New Balance minimus shoes (a mix between his Vibrams and his Nike Free's)

Now to the fun stuff!

We tried the new gluten free bakery in Bexley, Cherbourg Bakery.  Yummy!
We tried the coffee cake muffins (left) and rosemary polenta cake (right).   

Downtown at the Columbus Arts Fest.  Great weather and great art!

View of downtown from the Scioto Mile

We finished off the night at The Thurman Cafe, one of Chris's
"must try before we leave" restaurants.  Check out their menu,
this is The Thurman Burger.  3/4 lb beef.  Crazy!    

RW summer running streak day 4

Chris and I took off together for a quick 2.25 mile run before his LAST day of class before graduation! Beautiful day for a run but it was a tad warm. I felt super slow today, I'm guessing the heat and my cold (which is getting better, thankfully!)

RW Running Streak Day 3

Here we go, Day 3!

Sonya-3 Miles
Chris-3 Miles

Yes, we ran together :)

RW Running Streak Day 2

Did you see yesterday's post about Runners World Summer Running Streak?  There is still time to join us running at least a mile every day until 4th of July!

Day Two:
Sonya- 2 miles in the AM (before it got HOT) and BodyPump after work
Chris- 3 miles

Sonya's Total: 4.27 miles
Chris's Total: 4 miles

Are you with us?  Let us know how you're doing!

RW Summer Running Streak

Runner's World posts a fun summer challenge: running at least a mile every day from Memorial Day to 4th of July Weekend.  Chris and I have both decided to participate in the 38 days of running straight and I'm going to try to post our results.

Normally, I don't run every day so I'm planning on several 1 mile runs (days that I go to BodyPump or Yoga).

Day One:
Sonya-2.27 Miles with Alicia doing an interval run, followed with lunges, push-ups and sit-ups (Britt joined in for these after her 2.5 mile run)

Chris-1 mile


Here we go!  Are you with us???  If so, comment below!

The difference between a training run and a run

This morning I went out for a run, just for fun, leisurely Sunday morning run. My training miles and my "fun" runs are very different:

Training runs include:
1. Intervals
2. Timed miles
3. Mapped routes
4. A training mindset (meaning I push myself harder)

Fun runs are structured very differently:
1. None of the above :). I run 3-5 miles, depending on how I feel. I listen to my body and run a comfortable pace and distance.
2. I enjoy looking around the neighborhood.
3. Take time to think, reflect, meditate and be thankful.

What do you do differently on training runs than "fun" runs?

Sonya's List of Must-Have Gear for Running

As promised, here's my must-have gear for running a race!

1. Good sports bra.  I'm not brand specific but I do like mine to be made of moisture (aka sweat) wicking fabric.  
2. Running socks-yes, running socks make a difference!  Once you try them you will never go back, I promise.  I have mix of Thorlo, Wigwam and Balga.  They have extra cushioning in the toes/heels and compression around the mid-foot.  Good stuff!
3. Running shoes.  I highly, highly, highly recommend getting fitted for running shoes at a reputable store.  They will watch the way you walk/run and recommend shoes for you.  Are you an over or under pronator?  They will be able to tell you!  Then you try a few pairs on and go for a quick test run (inside or out, depending on the store) to make sure they will work.
4. Running capris.  No shorts here, I like a little more coverage when I run.  I do like compression capris which fit snugly and give support to my legs/knees.  And pockets are nice for keys, energy, etc.
5. Cliff Blocks.  I'm not a huge fan of running goo but these I love.  Most races give goo so I carry my own blocks (hence the pockets in the capris)
6. iPod.  Music is a great motivator.  I use the Nike + system to track my distance and pacing through the iPod.  I like the iPod nano because it's small and light.  C runs with his iPhone but I feel unbalanced and weighed down with it.
7. Watch/Heart Rate Monitor.  Know your zone and where you need to be.  Tracking heart rate is a great way to listen to your body.
6. Sunglasses.  I borrowed C's Oakley's for race day.
9. Layers.  I wasn't sure what race day would bring so I picked out a few layers ahead of time.  I ended up wearing the black Dry-Fit tshirt (10) and a zip up long sleeved jacket before the race and handed my jacket to C right before the start so I didn't have to tie it around my waist once I was warmed up.

Quick note about race day clothes:  NEVER wear anything new!  Always take your gear out for a few test runs to make sure that there aren't any performance or comfort issues.  I have a friend who wore new shorts for a marathon and now has a permanent scar from the tag rubbing her back.

And of course, not numbered, but my race bib ready to be pinned to my shirt.

What are some of your must-haves?
 

Cbus 10 Miler

On Sunday, I completed the Cbus 10miler for the second year.  Chris, Brittany and I ran this race last year and it was tough!  The race course was flip-flopped this year so there wasn't a two mile incline at the finish but there still was a mile incline that I hated :)  It's a hilly course that is meant to be a training run for the upcoming Capital City Half Marathon.  My goal this year was to beat last year's time (1:38:40 or 9:50 per mile) which wasn't much of a challenge since I had a cold last year, and I'm happy to say I did!  My time this year was 1:27:35 (8:46 per mile) which is a PR (personal record)!

  Over all, it's a nice, small race with both street and (paved) trail running.  I wouldn't call it easy because there are several inclines, some steep and some long and slow, but the people are friendly and the race well organized.  I think strength training (yoga and BodyPump) helped me improve and the guy that paced me for the last three miles :)  I don't know who he was but he would not let be get below a 9 minute mile :)  Wish I could say thank you to whoever he is!  Here's a few photos of the day: 

All my gear, ready to go (and my bags packed for a work trip later that day).  Gear post here!

Almost to the finish!

After the race

My race supporter and sometimes running partner

My race reward (not really, I just needed new shoes and they were on sale after the race)

Now that I'm a few days past the race, I'm wondering what's next?????  Maybe another sprint triathlon?  

Date Nut Energy "Brownie" Bites

I've made this recipe a couple of times over the past few months and it's a winner (this one is soooo easy)!  I try to keep a batch in the fridge for fast fuel on the go.  Sorry it took me so long to get around to blogging them. These are the perfect pre-  or post- workout snack and are packed full of energy from the dates and nuts.

Ingredients:

1 cup dates, chopped and pitted

1/2 cup raw almonds

1/2 cup raw cashews

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)

1-2 teaspoons filtered water

Directions:

Pulse ingredients together in food processor until mixture sticks together.  

I usually add a teaspoon or two of water to get the mixture to stick.

Roll into balls and store in fridge.

Before adding water:

After adding water (one teaspoon at a time):

After rolling into balls (I use a pampered chef cookie dough baller, works great:

Why I run

2007, Columbus Marathon Finisher

2011, Columbus Marathon (C) and  1/2 Marathon (S)

This morning I put in 4 miles before 8am on a Saturday and some would say that's crazy :)  So, I thought I would take a few minutes and discuss why I run (and workout, for that matter).

1. Stress relief.  Nothing like a great run/bike ride/swim or workout class to bust some stress!  My schedule can get pretty busy and that makes me stressed.  When that happens, I try to make sure I'm getting at least 4 workouts a week to keep me balanced and sane.  Those endorphin's always make me feel better afterwards.

2. Time to think.  Most of the time, I run alone.  Sometimes C or a friend join me but it's hard to find people who want to get up and be running before 6am.  I spend my running time thinking, praying, meditating, being thankful and planning my day.  Needless to say, I don't get bored even though I usually run the same routes.

3. Being unplugged.  Working out is one of the few times that I don't have my phone and am not accessible...and I love it!   I check my emails first thing in the morning and the last thing before I climb into bed.   Don't get me wrong, I love my iPhone/computer/iPad and my job but sometimes it's nice to not be available.

4. Being able to eat.  If you read this blog, then you know we love food and I love to cook.  Working out allows me to do more of both!  I try to cook healthy, nutritious meals but I've inherited a deep love of chocolate from my mother (must have it every day) and working out allows me to enjoy dessert without feeling guilty.

5. Health benefits.  I've got great cholesterol, blood pressure and energy levels from consistently working out (I'm aware that genetics play a part as well).  And I rarely have issues sleeping, like I'm out the minute my head hits the pillow...ask my husband.

I believe in a balanced approach to working out and keep my workouts mixed up so I don't get bored.  When I feel like I'm in a rut, I try something new or sign up for a race so I have a goal.  Here are few of my current favorites:

Spinning-1 time per week
Running (obviously)-4 times per week
Body Pump class (I need someone to force me to lift weights)-2 times per week
Hot Yoga-1 time per week
Walking the dogs-daily
Bike rides with C-weekends when the weather is nice

What are some of your favorite workouts?  What motivates you to lace up the sneakers?  
.     

Here we go again!

This week I signed up for another race, the CBus 10 miler on April 15th (same day I leave for a 4 day business trip....yes, I am crazy.  I'm kind of itching to do the Columbus 1/2 Marathon on May 5th but I graduate that day and THAT would be crazy!).  C, Brittany and I ran the inaugural race last year and even though it was hillier than I thought and I had a cold, it was still a good race, and good enough to do again, apparently.  I wasn't setting any last year PR's, that's for sure!  But to me, it's all about having a goal to work toward.

I kicked off my training this week with a couple of 3 mile runs and C surprised me with some new hot pink running socks!  

2011 In Review

We've had a very blessed and busy 2011!  Here were the highlights:

In January we flew to Colorado to meet up with our NC friends and to ski at Vail.

In February we added a new family member, Lila.

In March Chris ventured to Brazil for spring break.

In April we ran a 10 miler with Brittany.

In June we spent a week in the OBX with family and friends.  Shortly after, Chris started making the weekly drive to Cleveland for his internship.

In July we participated in our first adventure race..which ended in a broken hand.  And had our first guest blogger, Brittany!

In September brought Chris home again and the start of school at OSU and the start of football season.  But not before I made a trip to Cleveland for a visit.  We also hosted a baby shower for Danielle and Tim's pending arrivals.

In October we welcomed our first nephews Luke and Logan.  Chris ran is first (and only) marathon and I was so proud of him.

In December we finished out the year by spending the holidays with family and a few sunny days in Sanibel Island, Florida.

What were your favorite parts of 2011?  What are you looking forward to in 2012?  We've got some adventures pending so keep in touch!