details, details, details

Every time us girls get together I realize that there is so much we still need to figure out. Little details. Maybe I am way over-analyzing this running thing, but I want to be prepared. At least, as prepared as I can be.

One of our more recent discussions was on the race itself and what we plan on actually doing while we run. I mean, besides running.

Kim informed us that she would be listening to her ipod. She would not be talking. No way, no how.

I, Candace, completely agreed with her. To talk while one runs is begging for a side ache. Besides the fact that I would be sharing what limited oxygen I will be gulping down with my vital organs. No thank you. My lips will be sealed tight- with maybe a periodic grunt here and there. I love to encourage others so this might be difficult; especially in a race setting where we will need all the cheering on we can get. I will have to try the mental form.

The night we discussed this, I didn't remember Teri or Kristin verbalizing their plans. However, I do remember Teri once telling me that when she runs at the gym (daily at 5 am!) she doesn't listen to music. She uses that time to pray. I was so amazed and awestruck. The only time I ever pray while I am running is to beg God to miraculously let me be at my mileage goal. And sadly, I am a pastor's wife.

I asked Teri last night what her plan was and she too is doing the ipod thing during the race.

Darn it. I was hoping she would keep praying. I had some requests. For the race.

five weeks left

Today I panicked.

This last week was so busy with working, out of town guests and birthday parties that I made it to the gym, I am embarrassed to say, only twice. I ran pretty hard the measly two times I went, but will have to make up a bit of running this week to get back into routine. Not looking forward to having to convince my body that this is really lots of fun.

About the panicking. I could not remember the date we were to start our "official" training schedule and was afraid it was this week. My brain has dementia sometimes. After finding the schedule, I was able to breathe a moment as I realized that I still have a whopping 5 more weeks of pacing myself with speedwork and easy runs.

September 30th begins the high level of accountability and progressively longer runs. Can't wait!

lululemon

Found another cute, organic athletic wear company. Its called lululemon athletica. The closest actual store to us would probably be in San Diego, but you can order via internet. Their line is geared towards dance, yoga, running and everything in between.

Mental Toughness

Today I ran 3 miles for the first time in at least a month and it was kinda hard! I finished the run, but not even half way through my mind starting thinking about quitting. I'm hearing it say, "well, you haven't run 3 miles in a little while, so just stop at 2.5 and then tomorrow you can do 3." That is so pathetic! Why is laziness built into the human race? So, to combat this I tell myself, "If you can't make it 3 miles today, how are you going to get to 13.1?" I resolve to push myself; which is why I am doing this in the first place. I'm usually pretty good at pushing myself, but also afraid of failure which in the past has stopped me from going outside of my comfort zone. I've been committed to running, but not completely and totally committed - I can always stop when the going gets tough. Not anymore, sister - it's time to keep on pushin'....
Oh and by the way, I felt great once the run was over and glad that I didn't quit. :)

funny little thing

I begin to announce that I am running in a half-marathon.

I begin to get multiple running partner offers. I am not kidding.

People that have run them before and people that haven't.

Family and friends.

Just kind of funny.

The Look

Preparing for a race involves many aspects: the race, the pace, the shoes, the look, etc. As far as the look goes, I have found this great clothing line called Athleta that I love. They have super cute and functional pieces perfect for active women who want some style as they sweat!

One thing I am definitely purchasing is their sport tee that "proclaims your sport of choice before you ever open your mouth." I am obviously going for the running graphic. Its only $39 and I was thinking that if anyone else got one we could be twins, triplets, or quadruplets! What do you think??

By the way, my favorite female active wear store is Lucy. And not just because it is based out of Portland, OR- where I hail from! Their stuff has the best fit and the softest fabrics while looking ultra hip. Love it.

Ooops!

Ok, it's evident that I'm a first-timer now, you have no idea who posted that! That was me, Kim.