1 Week Down a LifeTime To Go!!!

          (its long but I PROMISE its worth the read!!!)
          I had the chance a couple weeks ago to participate in a Beach Body on Demand free 14 day program. I was apart of a challenge group where we helped keep each other accountable by checking in at the end of each day. The coaches that ran the group where great and super support supportive. Giving us challenges and recommendations to keep everyone involved on track. I was totally bummed when the 14 days ended and was looking for more. That's when my ever so Sweet Blog Friend Jenny (whom I learned about the initial program from) introduced me to her next challenge group starting up. "Spring into Summer" The Beach Body 21 Day Fix Extreme plan. I was hesitant at first for many reason but my excitement and drive to continue my journey to getting fit and living a healthy life far exceeded those fears. I talked it over with the hubbs to get his take and opinion on the program. I talked it over with a friend whose gone through the program as well. After going back and forth I bit the bullet and signed up to be a Beach Body Coach and haven't looked back once. I spent the next few days (and still currently) searching through Pinterest for approved meal plans: breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts, treats, snacks you name it I wanted to know everything. Suggestions on how to incorporate this into my life. Not to mention the million and one questions I had for Jenny, she was such a doll to answer them all and so supportive.
          Once I received my kit in the mail I spent the evening reading every piece of material provided. I was so excited to get started with this new journey. I made out my meal plan for the week according to the container allotments I was allowed and took the weekend to prep for the week ahead. Something I've been doing already since the hubbs has been gone, I just had to put a little more work into it this go around. Which was a big reason behind wanting to do this program in the first place. I've been eating the right foods, clean / healthy foods but not necessarily the right portion amounts for each food group. With 21 Day Fix Extreme program it lays it all out there for you. Its pretty much fool proof. Included is a nutrition guide / food plan - that goes along with each food group and a coordinating colored container (also included) that allows you to measure out your foods. 3 sets of work out DVD's and a weekly schedule to follow. If that wasn't enough also included is a month supply of Shakeology, which is a meal replacement protein shake filled with super foods your body needs. Shakeology helps with increasing your energy levels, reduces cravings, weight loss, improves digestion and regularity and simply transforms your health. - i.e.: straight from the website. (I've had shakeology a couple times before but it was only a small sample pack and I didn't stick with it.)
          Today I officially completed the first of three weeks in my first round of the 21 day fit extreme plan. It wasn't completely horrible at all, in fact I had trouble making sure I fit in all my containers when making out my meal plan for the week. But I got it done. I've grown to love shakeology, it tastes amazing and really is a great way to start my day. I've found that I've been in a much better mood through the day and much more alive if you will. I go to bed looking forward to waking up just so I can have my Shake-O. It's that good!!! I'm currently drinking Strawberry but can't wait to try out some of the other flavors. This past week had definitely opened my eyes to a new way of looking at food and how to incorporate it into my day. Not to mention the workouts, 30 minutes might not sound like you'd get that much out of it but boy let me tell you. I used to bust my butt for almost a hour every morning. With the 21 DFX I'm sweating my booty off half way through it. And I'm not doing the same routine every day.
          Needless to say I'm loving this new me and the 21 DFX program. It's something I plan to continue with even after the 21 days is up. That includes my daily does Shakeology. I plan to even continue with the Fix after my husband returns from deployment. I've worked to hard over the past several months since he's been gone to toss it all out the window when he comes home. It will most definitely be a adjustment, I'm not going to lie, it will be a struggle to get into a routine and learn how to cook according to the Fix for Two. But I'm up for the challenge and I'm not going to let life get the best of me.
          Living a New Fit Healthy Life Style has become a new love of mine. Not to say I lived a horribly awful one with horrible choices before. I / we ate relatively healthy, (we lacked in the veggie and fruit department) I didn't exercise but I did run quite a bit. However that wasn't enough. And I know that now. I don't know everything about being healthy and working out or making the right choices nor will I ever I'm sure. But I'm learning as I go and enjoying the ride to a better me. Will there be mistakes, cheat days, frustrations, failures, times I want to give up. YOU BET. Will I pick myself up and dust off my feet and keep going? YOU BET.
          I've only got one life to live. I plan on living it to the fullest. The longest, To the best of my ability. I know the only way to do that is through trusting God and his plan for me. I strongly whole heartily believe this is his plan. I've got a wonderful support system through many friend both in real life and through my challenge group and of course my biggest supporter my husband. I wouldn't be where I am if it wasn't for him.
          I say all of this (my own opinion, review and feed back) to 1) keep myself accountable. 2) put out there what has changed about me through this deployment and how I've grown. 3) to give you and / or someone you know the knowledge I've gained.

You've got goals, dreams???

          If you are looking to jump start your life to a healthier you, drop a few or several pounds, maybe break some old habits, fit into those jeans or swim suite again (hello summer is HERE) or simply want to get your nutrition on track. Please Please let me know. I would more than love to help you with that. I promise you wont regret it at all, in fact you'll be thanking me later. 

1 week down a LIFETIME to go!!!! 

Cooking For One

I've been missing this handsome fella something fierce here lately. Time is creeping by and its got me going stir crazy. I feel like there's still so much time to go and so much happening before he gets home. I'm swamped with work and school, on top of trying to maintain a healthy well balanced diet and work out plan. I'm managing I am, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't have my bad days. 

Hurry home baby I miss you, to pieces and your dogs are driving me crazy!!!! 

This is one of the pictures from the night he left, which I never posted because they break my heart every time I look at them. 

While G's been away I've completely changed my eating habits.... for the better. I'm by no means converting to going 100% clean but I am happy to say that I am now eating 75-80 % clean meals which is a huge change for me. I did a straight 15 days clean eating the last part of March and well I only caved twice during those 15 days. Progress and Practice People. 

I've enjoyed making some yummy new meals and even revamping some of our favorite meals into a healthy cleaner version. 

Scrambled Eggs, Grilled Chicken and Spinach for breakfast. 

Baked Apple Slices for a afternoon snack. 

Turkey Taco Salad w/ Fresh Canned Salsa for dinner.

 Are just a few of the yummy dishes I've been cooking up here these past few weeks. 

Speaking of being swamped with School, My friend / Co-worker / Classmate and I met up at Starbucks last weekend for a study date and spent a good 3+ hours working on one paper, ONE!!!! Only to find out a few days later we still needed to add to it. Not much but still, the fact that I had it or though I had it done and now its not is so aggravating. This whole back to school thing is still new to me, but I'm making it work. I'm so blessed and glad to be back in the classroom, but ready for summer break. (did I mention I might be taking a summer class aahhhhh)

Oh and I'm officially back on the streets!!! I took the winter off from running, why well because it was freaking cold out and I'm a wimp. I feel like a new person out there running. I was worried I'd struggle a bit at first to get my grove back but that hasn't been the case and it just makes me want to push and strive that much more. It just goes to show that this new life style I've created for myself has really benefited me in more way's then one.

 It's My Birthday Month!!! Holla!!!! 

And I've set a goal to run 29 miles in the month of April to celebrate my (soon to be) 29 years of life!!! 9 miles down and only 20 to go, I'm off to a great start!! 

And just for fun.....we got new jump ropes at school this past week and I had so much fun getting out there and breaking them in with the kids. I seriously felt like I was back in middle school gym class. Anyone looking to get me a birthday gift, here's a idea!!!! lol. No but for reals!!! 

Weekly Check In

                    This past week I challenged myself to finish out the month of March (which would be 16 days) by eating a completely CLEAN diet. I took some picture through out the week to help keep me accountable. I’ve been working out every morning when I get up before work since the hubbs left. I actually really look forward to waking up and working out each morning. I have also been walking the pups faithfully every day, some times multiple times a day. I’ve been really watching what I eat and controlling my portions (this one has been a big one, but I’m managing just fine). I’ve completely cut out Fast Food all together from my diet and I don’t do Soda. (I haven’t in 4 years.) Not to say that I don’t go out to eat here or there because I do. I’ve just cut out the junk. It started as simply just something to give up while the hubbs was deployed and nothing more. But I’m to the point were I will not go back. I’m sure I’ll have my day’s once he comes home were I’ll struggle to say no because it will just be quick and easy but I’m determined to stick with it. It's a lifestyle change not a diet. 

Saturday, I decided to change it up a bit so the pups and I went up to the Greenway for a stroll. What was just going to be a brisk 4 mile walk turned into a 3 mile run with a mile walk in-between. I would have ran the whole thing but Bailey my bigger pup couldn’t hang. When she’s done she stop’s dead in her tracks and doesn’t move. So I had to walk a bit between mile 2.5 and 3 to give her a rest. I had no intentions on running when I left my house but thankfully I had on good supportive shoes. No running watch, which in hin’s sight was probably better because I didn’t get caught up in my pace. Being it was my first run of the season. It did feel great though and I’m so glad I went for it. When I got home that afternoon I went straight into a 40 minute work out to finish out my day. 

           Sunday morning after church the pups and I went on a 50 minute walk around our neighborhood. It’s really not that big but I add in a side street and then loop around out circle twice and it comes out to 50 minutes. I had a good bit of homework to catch up on that I had put of so once I finished that I took advantage of having nothing to do and was completely lazy. Until 8:45ish that night rolled around I felt guilty because I hadn’t worked out yet so I got my booty up and pushed through a 20 minute work out. Going to bed feeling so much better about myself. 

               Monday morning I woke up 30 minutes earlier than I normally do got in a 40 minute work out and took the pups on a walk. During the week in the mornings I typically only take the pups half way around the neighborhood and cut through the middle street to loop back around. Simply because I always feel like I wont have enough time to make it all the way around and back before I have to leave. I though I’d give it a go this morning since I was ahead of my schedule and I had plenty of time. I even ended up running the back side on the way back. I had class that evening so I took my dinner with me and ate at work before going to class. I’m trying to avoid eating late. When I got home that night I did another 15 minute leg work out before calling it a day. Day 1- clean eating was a success!!! 

 Tuesday I started my new hours at work. The other Pre-school teacher asked if I’d be willing to switch schedules with her and work 7:30-4:30. Hello of course, I will. Anything to get off a bit earlier. The only down fall to that was, meant I was going to have to get up even earlier to get my work out in. I set 5 alarms on my phone before going to bed, fearing I’d sleep through them or hit snooze. Nope I work up right on time at 5:00am. (my goal was 5:30, but the earlier the better) I managed to get in a 50 minute work out at 5AM BEFORE work people!!! Talk about motivation. Then the pups and I headed out for our morning walk well before the sun came up. It was a bit strange to be out walking them in the dark but the temperate was amazing. 500 calories burned before 6:30am and later a freshly made smoothie in hand and I was on my way out the door to work and I even made it there 10 minutes early and wasn’t rushing at all. That evening after getting home I did a 15 minute arm work out, had my Crock Pot Chicken Salad for dinner and called it a night. 

Tuesday was also our St. Patty's day party at work and while the kiddo's enjoyed lots of yummy green treats I held my head high and ate my yogurt and granola. Day 2- clean eating in the books.

                  Wednesday was a little bit more of a struggle to get up at 5am but I managed and made it through my 50 minute work out and headed out the door for our morning walk at 6am with the pups. I used to get up work out get ready for work and then walk the dogs. But now I work out, and right after I walk the them. It makes so much more sense. I can't tell you how many times I'd get ready for work go our for a walk and come back feeling all sweaty. Ewh. This morning I though I'd run the back side of our street coming back around the neighborhood and although I did good and it felt fabulous my Fat girl Bailey though other wise. I just don't think she's got it in her any more. She can only manage running about a mile and she's done. She stops dead were she's at and doesn't move. It's so frustrating because I could be knocking two things out at once, my run and their walk. But I don't want her passing out either so I guess we'll stick to walking when I take them. 

I had a Tropical Oatmeal smoothie for breakfast that morning, took the pups on a 40 minute walk and added in a 15 minute work out from Tone and Tighten before dinner that night. Day 3- clean eat success. 

          Thursday morning up again on time, I'm quite impressed with myself for getting my booty up and moving. I really look forward to starting my mornings off with a good sweat. It's amazing what a workout will do to your attitude and out look for the day. 60 minutes done. That's been my goal, to get my morning work outs up to 60 minutes and I finally did it. No going back now. Morning walk with a 1.25 mile run with the pups before mixing up a Berry and Kale Smoothie and off to work. Another school night so I took my Chicken Salad with me to work for dinner. It's so nice not getting home and 8:45 almost 9pm and still having to eat and get ready for the next day. I wasn't able to take the pups out that evening because it was already late and I was exhausted but I did get my evening work out in. Day 4- Clean eating done!

             Friday morning, oh how glorious it is to see you. I've only got 9 hours till the weekend. I briefly though about skipping my work out this morning but that just wouldn't have worked out. I can't tell you the last time I skipped a morning work out even on the weekends so why start with today. After my 60 minute work out and morning run with the pups I was ready to tackle the day. I have loads of home work to do this weekend but no plans other wise, so I was looking forward to finally being able to sleep in. That evening when I got home the pups and I took our walk around the neighborhood and I did this killer full body work out when we got back. Day 5- of 16 clean eating is complete. 

You start off doing 5 of each set then you go up to 10, 15, 20, 25 of each and then you work your way back down 20, 15, 10 and then 5. The lunges got the best of my and my legs are so sore. But I did it and treated myself to a fabulous salad and some not so yummy blueberry greek yogurt. I got a single serving of the Chobani Greek Yogurt and I was not a fan. It may have simply been that I don't like blueberries but either way, I'll be stick with my Yoplait Greek Yogurt.

      I'm sure I wont recap each week in as much detail so I'm not even going to commit and say that I am. I do keep try of my day's on a calendar on our frig. Here's to next week and finishing out the month strong!!!

Clean Eat's

Here we are half way through March already. I can't believe how quickly time is going by. In way's I'm loving it and then in way's I'm not as crazy as that sounds. I want time to fly by because I'm over this deployment and I want my hubbs home but I'm not ready for winter again. We've just barely started spring. 

I've set a goal for myself for the next two months and I'm determined to reach it. It's totally realistic and maintainable but I need a little strong will to get me there. So I'm planning on finishing out the next 15 day's strong which includes a completely clean eating plan. If I would have though about it at the time I would have taken pictures of my meals as I prepared them and made them up this weekend but I didn't. Blogger fail. Next time for sure though. But here's the run down at what my next two weeks looks like meal wise. 

Post Morning Workout- Homemade Smoothie w/ protein. Already prepped into single servings ready to toss in the mixer with the extras. I made up over a dozen and still have plenty left that I can make. 

Breakfast- Oatmeal. Which I'll have after I get to work and settled with my kiddos. 

Morning Snack- 1 1/2 cups Green Grapes & 1 cup Strawberry. 

Lunch- Meal Replacement Shake and 10 baby carrots. 

Afternoon Snack- Greek Yogurt w/ Granola or Green Apple 

Dinner- Southwestern Chicken on-top of a fully loaded salad & half a baked potato. (week-1) Made!

             Ground Turkey Taco Meat on-top of a fully loaded Salad w/ Avocado. (week-2) 

             Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken (week-3) Already made in single servings in the freeze!

That's it,  no processed foods or extras. It's 15 day's I can do anything for 15 day's. I've been doing really well at watching what I eat and my portion control so this should (wink wink) be a breeze. Fingers crossed. Tuesday we are having a St. Patrick's day party in our class at work. I will NOT eat a Cupcake, I repeat: I will NOT eat a Cupcake. 

I've come this far, there's no turning back. 

It's not a diet, It's a life Style Change. 

On another note: I went on my first run of the season Yesterday at the local Green Way. It felt fabulous. It was only 3 miles, 2 miles ran then walked half a mile then ran the last miles. I would have ran the whole thing straight through but the pups couldn't handle it and I didn't want to push them. I've definitely missed it, I hated that I took some time off over the winter but I just couldn't hang in the cold temps. 

30 b4 30 --- UPDATED!!!!

We're already into the 2nd month of 2015 seriously were in the world has time gone. I'll be 30 next year, just typing that makes me want to throw-up a little. There's no way, its not possible. I still have so much I want to accomplish and do before I turn 30. I have done and been through probably more than many people will in a life time being a Milispouse and its only made me who I am today. I wouldn't change any of it the good or the bad. It's definitely helped me become more independent, more loving, a stronger person and a even better wife. I really try not to sweat the small stuff and not let the little things in life get to me. Rather I try to live and make the most out of each and every day.

Living the Army Wife life we've lived in Hawaii to South Carolina now in Tennessee. It has opened my eyes to a whole new world and shown me things and taken me places I never could of imagined possible. I've met people who I've made life long friendships with that I never would have if it wasn't for the Army. 

Looking forward and thinking about the next big milestone in my life.....turning.....

....that is. I want to make the best out of the next 14 month and our future together. I made this list back in 2011 and have checked in on it periodically but its time to buckle down and knock this thing out. I've updated my list a bit to accommodate the time frame I have left as well as made some adjustments to my "must do / want to do". I've got a full life ahead of me with my husband and there's absolutely no reason to short change ourselves, because of time. 

So in NO particular order at all here is a list of things I want to do before I'm "30 THIRTY 30"!!!!! 

1~Learn how to drive Standard

2~Lose 10-15 lbs.

3~This one's private :) (makes you think though doesn't it)

4~ Go on a Post Deployment trip with the hubbs

5~Make out w/ the hubbs in the rain

6~To be debt free with the exception of our house (that'll be awhile) and possibly one car. 

7~Become a Mom (this one's still up in the air)

8~Be in two states at one time

9~Put together a cookbook of my own

10~Send out 100 (at least) + just because notes / cards to friends and family

-10 down-

11~Revamp my Wardrobe

12~Get into the best shape of my life / reach my goal weight

"In progress"

13~Pay for a strangers meal at a restaurant or drive threw

14~Read & Finish 30 new to me Books

15~Have Boudoir photo's take for the hubbs

Done January 2015 

16~Visit the United States Capitol ~ Washington DC

Done~ DC Trip w/ The Spouse May 29, 2012 

17~Buy Our First Home

Done ~ April 11, 2014

18~Go to the Pro Bowl in Hawaii

Done~ January 30, 2011

19~Visit the major Islands of Hawaii: The Big Island, Kauai, Maui        

Done~April 4, 2009, May 22, 2010, July 28-31, 2011

20~Go on a Hot Air balloon ride

Done~ Happy Anniversary to US!

21~Run a Half Marathon

Done~ March 9, 2013

22~ Go to New York City for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Done ~ November 20-24, 2012 (still need to blog it)

23~Go to New York City for the New Years Eve Celebration

Done ~ December 27, 2013- January 2, 2014

24~Sky Dive

Done~ August 6, 2010, October 24, 2010 and October 30, 2010 

25~Take a ride in a SeaPlane

Done~March 8, 2011

26~Run a Marathon

Done~ November 9, 2013 - On our 6 Yr. Wedding Anniversary 

27~Swim w/ Sharks

Done~ December 27, 2009

28~Get a Tattoo

Done~ August 9, 2008 - This was my first, I've added 4 since then. 

29~Have 5 year Anniversary photo's taken 11-9-12 (like engagement photo's)

Done~5 Year Pictures!!

30-Forgive and Fall in Love with Turning 30

31~Finish the list before I turn 30 : Deadline April 21, 2016

I just don't want life to pass me by and I want to make sure we have fun and enjoy life to the fullest. I plan to keep this updated over the next 14 months to keep myself accountable. I'll keep you updated on my progress as time goes along and mark the list off as I accomplish things.

 What are some things on your 30 b4 30 bucket list???

My First 26.2!!

The morning started off EARLY 4:30am EARLY to be exact. I rolls over and told the hubbs I wanted to sleep in and didn't wanna run. Mainly because I was tired and it was so freaking early. I knew I couldn't do that I had to run, not only would I be letting others down if I didn't but most important I'd be letting myself down. I some how managed to pull myself out of bed and got ready. I knew once I got up and moving I would be fine. We left the hotel about 5:45am to make it down to the start line by about 6am. I wanted to make sure I was early enough to find my spot in the corral and not be rushed. The hubbs dropped me off with two of his buddies he works with that were also running the Full. I hung out with them for the morning while the hubbs went and got breakfast at Waffle House and then back to the hotel for a nap. About 6:40am we turned in our bag with our jackets and I made my way just about to the front of the start line to fine Kelly and say hello to her before the race started. We were in completely different corral numbers based on our finish time. We weren't sure if we'd see each other pre-race just because of the amount of people and craziness that was going to be going on. It def. gave me that extra little bit of boost that I needed getting a good luck hug from her. 7am rolled around and corral 1 started, then corral 2, 3, 4, 5, and finally corral 19 which was me. At 7:24am I crossed the start line to my very first Marathon, I literally had tears in my eyes with excitement that I was actually doing this. I couldn't believe it, I had been training for this day for the last 5 months and it was finally here. I started off running the first half mile with a Pacer, I did this with my first half marathon and I really enjoyed it. That however didn't last long, I left her and the rest of the group shortly after we started. Her pace plan was good for her and others if you trained the way she ran but I didn't. She ran 0.40 miles and then she would walk 0.10 miles and then run 0.40 miles and walk 0.10 miles ect. They planned to do this the entire race. To me that was just did not make sense for me to stick with them. I trained to run the entire race and I knew I could, there was no reason I couldn't. Leaving and getting ahead of them I was guaranteed to come in under my goal time, with the idea that nothing happened and I was able to stick with it. The race was the Savannah Rock n Roll Marathon Series, it was the 3rd year that city had hosted the race. The Bands SUCKED big time, the course wasn't bad at all it was 98% flat which was a huge plus for me because I trained in one of the most hilliest cities in South Carolina. I'm strong on hills and can push through to the top no problem but 26.2 miles of flat is gravy in most cases. Around mile 16 my right knee started giving me a lot of trouble. I had the same pain 2 weeks prior to race weekend but it had gone away. I was literally almost in tears running through that stretch of the race. I texted Kelly as I was running and told her I was hurting, she asked what and were and I told her. She asked me what mile I was at and I told her. She reminded me I just had 10 miles to go and to pouch through. She told me to stop at the next Medic Station to see if they could do anything and I did. It was a quick 45 second stop for Tylenol and some biofreeze spray and I was back on my way. The porta potties that were just around the corner were completely empty so I stopped for a quick potty break that literally lasted 15 seconds and I was back on the road. I some how broke off one of the ear buds to my head phones but I was doing good. I was pretty sure that pace group was still behind me because I didn't see them ahead of me at all and I was only out of sight for literally 15 seconds. I pushed along and managed to keep going, thinking of how proud I was of myself for getting this far. Only 1% of the population can say that they've ran a Marathon and I was going to be in that 1%. Around mile 18 or 19 the pace group caught up with me but I was still going strong and doing good. I stuck with them through mile 22 or so doing their run 0.40 walk 0.10 run 0.40 walk 0.10 but it eventually got to be to much and I just continued to run ahead as I did before. At one point the pace group passed me, I was still running but my pace had slowed down a bit. I knew if I was going to finish the race I needed to keep my head in the game and not worry about trying to stick up with them. I had / still had a goal finish time that I was going for but at this point I just wanted to finish. I swore I'd never do this again. I had planned to run a marathon before I was 30, it was on my 30 b4 30 list. As I was running a sweet girl started talking to me and clicked right away, we continued to talk a little exchanging conversations. At one point as we were heading back on the home stretch I was having a hard time and though I wasn't going to be able to make it. She asked if I was ok and I told her yes I just was ready to be done. She encouraged me and kept me going, gave me some great advice and told me she was sticking with me till the end that we were going to finish together. At about mile 22 I asked her, her name Ali it was. I'll never forget her, we talked, laughed even struggled a bit but we sucked it up and pushed on. I told her about my Mamaw being in the hospital, she told me about how she came to run the Sav. RnR. It was also her first full marathon, and she said probably her last. lol. At mile 24 I texted Kelly and told her I had "2 freaking miles left". I pushed in and dug deep and gave it all I had to get to the finish line. Ali and I still going strong together, we passed about 6 or  7 photographer on those last couple of miles and totally cheesed it up. Just pass the 26 mile marker I heard Kelly yelling my name as she was running towards me along the side. We had tears in our eyes, I yelled back at her, I was SOOO EXCITED to see her. She ran along my side, I introduced her to Ali and she told us we were almost there. I asked her if she had seen the hubbs if he was at the finish and she said yes he was there waiting. I couldn't wait for him to see me complete my first marathon. Literally right around the corner she said. We entered the finished lane and I told Ali to come on…..we sprinted to the finish line, I don't know how I still had any energy in me but I pulled it out and did it. I didn't know it till after the fact but Kelly was running along the right side videoing as I crossed the finish line. It was one of the proudest moments of my life, I had just ran a Marathon, 26.2 freaking miles and I did it proudly. My goal finish time was 5 hours and 30 minutes, I came in just 8 minutes and  34 seconds over my goal time. A bit disappointed in myself because I though if I wouldn't have walked those 2 half mile stretches at one point I could have made it right at 5 hours and 30 minutes. I crossed the finish line was handed my metal and a bottle of water. I felt like I was going to throw up right there I stopped looking all around me to find a place were there wasn't any people were I could throw up. This man on the side lines yelled and said keep moving, I wanted to tell him to shut the heck up but I didn't. I gathered myself and looked up just as I did I saw the hubbs walking down to were I was. I gave him the biggest sweatiest hug ever, almost in tears I was so happy. I did it I finished and he was there to see me do it and it was our 6 Year Wedding Anniversary what a better way to spend the day!!! Kelly came around and gave me the biggest hug ever. She and her friend Cynthia had ran the half so they finished a while ago and had already gone back to their hotel showered and changed. Lucky Dogs. Kelly had a Monogrammed pullover made for me for a Marathon Finishers gift. It was so cute, I love it. She tied it around my waste and we of course had to take a few pictures documenting one of the best days ever. The four of us headed out to lunch downtown before we headed on back to Cola. Not that I just ran 26.2 miles but I had to walk half a mile to a place for us to eat. I guess it was better than walking back to the car, and driving around some were right. I'll never forget my First Marathon experience, I said towards the end of the race to Ali I was never going to do this again and she said that same thing but now after the experience and recovering and seeing that I am bigger and strong than I let me mind know, I know I really could do it again and I just may. Running is my therapy and I couldn't imagine not doing it. Although half marathons seem so much more manageable running a full is something not many people can say they've ever done. I have to thank my new sweet friend Ali for helping me and getting to the finish line with me. I know she needed me just as much as I needed her, we exchanged numbers and bf's at the end and plan to run another race together at some point. Here are a few of the pictures from my big day. I still haven't decided which ones I'm going to purchase from the ones the race people took but once I do and get them I'll be sure to share. But until them I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

Sweet 16!!!

This morning I was set out to run my longest run to date ever. I've mentioned before how I've started running with a running group on Saturday mornings. This has got to have been the best decision ever, running with them that is. I've gotten in some extra long runs that I may not have been able to other wise. Its helped me do a good amount of the training on my own because K isn't able to train with me as much because of her job change. I've also found a few new area's to run in with longer straight stretches and that's so much nicer than the constant turn here, turn here then turn here. Its worked out great and because we were scheduled to run 8 miles today and I needed to run a total of 16 miles. YIKES!!!! K suggested that I park at her house and run the 3.5 almost 4 miles from her house to the school were we meet up and then the 8 miles with them and then 4 miles back to make a total of 16 miles. Ok doesn't sound to bad right.....except for the fact that it means I had to get up a hour earlier than I normally do because I had to meet the group at 7:30. I figure if I started at 6:30 I could get more than the 4 miles in and have less to do on the back end on my way home. It still sounded way to freaking early but you know what I sucked it up and did it. I was a little ok ALOT nervous about running so early in the morning before the sun came up by myself. I tend to freak myself out way to much but you can't help it with all the crazy people in the world now days. I got out of the neighborhood as quickly as I could and on to the main streets (which aren't super busy that early in the morning so that's a bonus) just rounding the 2nd to last long stretch before the school the sun started to come out a little and it was getting brighter out. I started seeing more people out running and it made me feel at ease a little more. I met up with the running group and we headed out right then on our route. I was able to stay up to pace with two other runners and we chatted the whole time at a good pace which helped the time and mileage go by pretty quickly. Once we finally made it back to the school I simply looped around and knew I was on the home stretch back to my car only 4 miles to go and I was good. I ended up having to take a gu pack at mile 12 and a quick sip of water from a water station another running group had set up. (I don't run with water) I was golden for my trip back. I made it all the way with only having two short red light stops. The last mile I was struggling a bit as it was up hill a good amount of the way, my knees were hurting and I wanted to trough in the towel but I sucked it up and did it. I avoided going by my car till I was right at 16.00 miles because I didn't want to be tempted to stop. Although I'm a very determined and strong willed person I wouldn't have given in early still it was tempting. I was so proud of myself and relived that it was over and I had just run my longest run ever, but the disappointing part about it was there was no one to celebrate it with. See the hubbs was home asleep at CQ (24 hour duty) so I dare not call him, K was gone and wasn't getting back to me, I called my brother but he was asleep. My excitement was short lived as I headed home to get cleaned up and then out to the commissary for my month grocery shopping trip. But I'm proud to say I ran 16 that's SIXTEEN miles straight for the very first time ever and I felt great 85% of the time. That's something to be proud about and talk about right!?!?!?!? This next Saturday coming up is my 18 mile run, just adding on those miles, 2 at a time from here on out. I've got exactly 5 weeks to go and that means CRUNCH time. My goal is to get to at least 23-24 miles before my marathon, I'm not going to try and make it all the way to 26, as I want my marathon to be my first 26.2 miles. After Saturday's run I feel as though I CAN run the entire race. Prior over the last 3 weeks or so I've had a game plan to run 6 miles walk .5 miles, run 6 miles walk .5 miles etc, that sounds do able right?!?! But I "think" I can possibly run the whole 26.2, I've said all along I just want to finish strong and proudly but I would be lying if I said I didn't have a goal time to complete the race in because I do. We will see, I still have just over a month of training left and I'm talking full advantage of it!!!

I know you are all probably so board and over my running post, and I'm sorry. I've always wanted to keep track and be able to look back on my life (our life as a couple) and this has been a huge part of my life over the last few years and it will continue to do so as long as I can run. I promise though we have some exciting things coming up our way over the next couple months and I plan to fill you in on all of that as well. I'm still contemplating taking the rest of November off from running after my race but I probably won't. I don't know we will see how I feel. Thank you to each and everyone of you for sticking around and supporting me and following along as I train through the pain, the good and the bad..... for my first half marathon (which was this past March) and now for my first full marathon. 

Your support and encouraging words mean more to me than you will ever know. 

Picking up the Pace

"last Saturday's 5 mile run"

Last Saturday I ran 5 miles with the Trenholm Road Runners group I joined. Sunday (the day after) I woke up bright and early to get in a long run in with Kelly. I was a little sore from the day before but felt good and knew I needed to get in the miles. We did a good 8 mile run and I was really feeling it the last mile. I had to pee like a race horse but refused to stop because I knew I wouldn't want to finish. My legs started to get shaking and my stomach was starting to hurt. There was just a couple blocks left to get back to Kelly's house and I was pushing it with my last bit of steam. I'm pretty sure I could of passed out in her drive way the second I hit her house. I completely forgot about having to use the restroom. It was a much needed run together but after the fact I was a bit butt hurt with myself at how much I slacked on that last mile but in my defense I ran 5 the day before. 

"last Sunday's 8 mile run"

This morning was another long run, although I didn't go into it with that in mind. I almost didn't even make it to meet with the Trenholm Road Runners. I though I left the house on time but after I got in the car and headed off post I had 10 minutes to get to our meeting place. Thankfully I made it just in time, how ever once we set off on our run I wasn't feeling it for the first half mile. I felt rushed getting there and then my hair was falling down and bouncing on my head. Seriously it was so annoying. I didn't want to stop and fix it because I'd fall behind the group. I did my best to put it back up in a bun while running and it seemed to work. My head was back in the game and I was on my way. I kept going back and forth on weather I wanted to add miles on at the end or not. I figured I'd see how I felt when I was done.

 On my way to the meet this morning I had a new supplement drink mix a friend from Texas sent me. Have you ever heard of Advocare? I had before but had never used any of their products till now. The mix I used this morning was called "Spark", it has 45 calories and is sugar free. It helps enhance mental energy and focus, it also provides support for long-lasting energy. I am not one to use "extra" supplements or powder mixes or pills to help with running or working out. I watch my diet and eat in moderation and make healthier choices. However L sent it to me knowing I'm training for a Marathon. She has had several other runners use the same products and they've had great results. I figured the worst that would happen would be I wouldn't notice a difference, I have a horrible run because it didn't set well with my stomach OR it actually would help and makes a difference. 

Once we got just before mile 5 almost to our finishing point I was still on the fence on weather or not I was going to continue and add miles on. It wasn't till the group made the last right turn almost into the parking lot were we where parked was it that I decided to stay straight and go on. I was filling good, weather that be from the "Spark" or not I don't know. I figured I'd get in a extra mile or maybe two. I followed the road and kept going, figured it would loop around to were I was parked eventually. And that it did. I was at 6.69 miles at that point 3 more and I would be at 10 miles. I decided to circle around again and make it a even 10 miles but that wasn't a big enough circle, I had to loop around another time and a half. I was doing good all the way up until about mile 9.2, I hit a wall and wanted to be done. I kept going I was determined to make it a even 10 miles. I kept telling myself that I had less than a mile to go "LESS THAN A MILE TIFFANY", you can do this. I knew not matter how much I was hurting in the moment I would be hating myself for quitting early. Its all a mental game for me, I let things get in my head while training for my half in the spring and I'm not letting that happen this time. 

"today's 10 mile run"

I'm proud to say I completed a unexpected 10 mile run this morning and couldn't be happier. 

I have just over 2 month of training time left before my big race. I have a plan in my head as far as training and its been going well. As long as I continue with it I think I will be ready come November 9th. I also have a plan on how I'm going to run the Marathon and hopefully it will all work out. I'd be lying if I said I didn't have a goal finish time but I know the most important thing is to just finish. No matter what after wards I know I'm going to be so excited to say I've officially ran and finished my first marathon. That's a lot more than most people can say. 

After my run this morning I had plans to make my way over to Fleet Feet to look in to getting new kicks. I wasn't excited about it so much because I love love my current shoes. We've shared many many miles together almost 300 miles to be exact. Most running shoes have a life time of 300-500 miles, minimalist shoes are on the lower end of that mile count. And that's what I run in, not having a arch in either of my ankles having a fully supported shoe just doesn't work well for me. I am currently running in the original Brooks Pure Flow but they no longer make them. The new version has me worried with the mixed reviews and I'm not 100% sold on them. I am a firm believe in Fleet Feet and what they offer, their service is amazing and they offer a Military discount so you can't beat that. I went in told them what was going on, my training and what I'm working towards. I tired on the new Pure Flow 2 and also the Pure Cadence 2 went for a quick jog outside the store in both to test them out and ultimately walked out with the Brooks Pure Cadence 2. They were both very similar but the Pure Cadence 2 had a bit more cushion then the Pure Flow 2 and I don't know any one that would ever complain about that. I'll probably take them for a short run on Monday morning to see how I like them. Thankfully with Fleet Feet even after a good month if I don't like them or I'm not 100% happy I can take them back and exchange them for something else. I'm really hoping they work out though because I don't want to have to get used to another new shoe. And if they do and I grow to love them just as much as I did my other ones I may just go ahead and buy a 2nd pair to have on hand for when these go. 

Work and Running consumed most of my life right now which really isn't all that bad since the husband picked up a new cycle last week. His Battalion Graduates on Halloween and he will only have two weeks off before picking up again. I'm not complaining though because I need these next two months to fully focus on my training. I wont feel guilty doing so and leaving him at home because he'll be at work. Thankfully he will be on cycle break for the race which just so happens to be the same day as our anniversary. I'm looking forward to a little Marathon / Anniversary get away in Savannah, Georgia. 

1st Platoon Titans 

 

My 1st Half Marathon

Finally the day I've been training for, over the last two months was here. I couldn't believe it was all coming together and I was really going to be doing this. I had my moments during training were I didn't think I was going to be able to complete the race but I kept going. And I'm so so thankful that I did because I'm not one to quit or throw in the towel. 

Up at 5am this morning to eat a yummy breakfast, get dress, make sure my hair was pulled back nice and tight. Everything else I got together and ready the night before so I was set to go. I'm not a morning person at all, but once I'm up I'm good to go. It's just that initial getting up that sucks. 

I met up with Kelly at 6:15am at her house and we headed down town it was time to face the starting line. Was this really happening, are we really here today. It's not a dream, its really happening. All of these emotions kept going through my head, I wasn't sure what to expect with this being my first big race. There was going to be a ton of people, I didn't want to be left in the dust at the end the last one to cross the finish line. What if no one talked to me or if I choked and got nervous, I was feeling a bit over whelmed but I put a smile on and made my way to the start line. 

Ready or not this is really happening, I'm about to run my first ever (but not last Half Marathon). Yesterday at Packet Pick Up, I signed up to run with a Pacer. (If you don't know what a pacer is here's a quick example, bc I didn't know before this past week. Race's have pacer's to help runners meet their goal time. Example: if you want to run a marathon in 3 hours you sign up to run with the pacer that runs at that mile a minute pace, if you want to run a marathon in 5 hours you sign up with that mile a minute pacer. I highly recommend this for first time half / full marathon runners) I had a goal time that I really wanted to meet. So I signed up with the pacer that best fit my goal time. Knowing that if I ran with them or ahead of them, never letting that pacer or other runners in that pacing group pass me then I'd make my goal time. It made perfect sense. 

Kelly and I before she decided she needed to go wait in the 10 minute long potty line umm......7 minutes before the race was suppose to start. I went ahead and met up with my pacer, this way I could put a face with the people I'd be running with. 

The race started and I was feeling good about things, it was a little chilly but I knew it would warm up as soon as I got going. At first I was nervous about running by myself (not with K) for say but I really think it help me alot. I was able to focus on myself and stay in the zone. I knew the route of the last 5 miles but the first half of the race I didn't. I think knowing some and not knowing helped me in different ways. I was able to stay with the pacer through out the first 5 1/2 - 6 miles, I never let them pass me. There was 4 other runners running with her as well, they were all running the full marathon though. There was water and first aide stations at every mile marker which was really nice. I only grabbed water three times out of the 13 miles. I'm used to running with out water so I didn't need it so much. I'm sure on hotter days it will be more welcomed but I did fine with my Gu pack. A good amount of the time I stayed a few feet ahead of the pacer or just right behind her. As we would reach a water station I would hear her tell the other runners that they could walk through this one and take a break. Are you kidding me......no way I'm not walking, I'm not stopping. I kept going and when I would grab water I would get it from the last person handing it out. Everyone seems to go to the first person they see, which causes a mass cluster and I've learned in race's that I tend to go to the last person. 

When we passed about mile 5 1/2 -6 I found myself a good few blocks ahead of the group. I'd picked up my pace a little and just kept going. I wasn't going to slow down to wait for them. As long as they DIDN'T pass me I was golden and had nothing to worry about. I had a goal and that's all that mattered, if I came in under FABULOUS but if I came in at my goal time I'd be just as stoked. 

I paced through mile 7, 8, 9, 10 all by myself, I never stopped, never let up and never looked back. Passing mile 10 there was a few people cheering that it was just a 5k left. Hey a 5k, I've done plenty of these I've got this. (speaking of people out cheering, they were EVERY WERE through out the city, the different neighborhoods and along the streets cheering us on. The support from the community was outstanding) I came up on mile 11 and I recognized some of the voices coming up from behind me. It was the pacer and the other runners I'd ran with the first few miles. Are you kidding I though I lost you people. One of the guys (I'll will call him N) said to me "alright your about to smoke us out of here and fly away" I replied laughing "I though I already did that". Then came a awful hill, the largest one of the course, I pushed through it as hard as I could but I seriously though I was going to die. 

But I DIDN'T stop. "NEVER STOP ON A HILL", I just kept repeating that to myself. 

As we reached the top of the hill N kept encouraging me along the way and telling me the next few turns before I reached the finish line. He was a great supporter and I can not thank him enough for pushing me that last mile and half. We rounded the last corner and you could see a large crowd of people in the distance about 3/4 of a mile down. N knew my goal time and told me if I didn't slow down there would be no doubt that I'd make it and be really happy with myself. I asked him what the time was and then quickly said NO NO don't tell me, I wanted to be surprise. (even though I had my watch on me I hadn't looked at it) He told me to sprint it out the last 100 yards and push out everything I had in me. I said my good byes to them and wished them good luck as they were about to start on their 2nd loop around and the really left them in my dust. I pushed it out and ran my little heart out as fast as I could. 

(the picture below was taken after I crossed the finish line)

All of a sudden I hear to my right some people yelling my name and I look over and its Kelly her husband and one of their friends. I looked over at them with a big smile and waved as I kept going, I was ALMOST THERE. My husband was waiting for me at the finish line some were and I wanted him to see my finish strong. 

I DID IT!!!! 

I'm a Half Marathon Runner and I finished UNDER my goal time!!! 

I was so freaking stoked!!!! 

My Goal time to finish was 2:30:00

 My final finish time was 2:27:03

That's right 3 minutes under my goal time. Sure its not much but its under and I'll take that any day!!!! With that being said and seeing that I can do it, I know I can push myself that much more next time. I've already set a new goal time for my next Half Marathon!!!

 (no, there's not a race planned yet, looking for one though. )

My Love and I after I finished. He is the best husband, supporter ever. I can't even begin to Thank him enough for always supporting my love for running and encouraging me to follow through with my dreams and goals. Having him there at the finished line made it that much more sweeter. While I was running knowing he was going to be waiting for me only made me want to push through that much stronger. 

side note: out of all the races I've ran he's only been able to attend one of them because of the army, so this was a big deal.  

Kelly and I after I finished. She is definitely a rock star, with out her it would have taken me a lot longer to train up and get ready to run a half. When we first talked about doing it and signed up for it I though no way will I be ready in two months. Let me tell you about a month and a half into training I was ready. At that point I had the confidence that I could do it!!! I impressed myself more and more every day with training, running and working out leading up to today. 

After today I have more confidence in myself that I can do a FULL MARATHON. I've always had a goal to run a Full before I'm 30, it's on my 30 before 30 list. (thankfully I have a few years till then lol.) Prior to running the half I told myself, the hubbs and Kelly that I wasn't at all going to try and push myself to do one this year. I didn't think it was possible at all. However I believe I can do it this year and I may just take on the challenge if I come across good race and location.

Seriously one of my most favorite people I have here in the South!!! Love Love her!!! I'm so glad that I've finally found someone who I love hanging out with and spending time with. We can joke around, be goofy and crazy and have a great time doing just about anything. She's def. made my time here in the South more enjoyable. 

Half Marathon Finisher!!!!! Metal!!!! 

I had so much fun running the half, the course was great the weather was perfect the support from the community was amazing and I can't wait to do this race again next year. 

All the tears, blisters, shoe issues, sore leg and every ounce of pain was totally worth it. I'd do it all over again and can't wait to!!!! 

I'm taking the week off from running to let my leg fully heal from a injury I've been nursing and then its back at it full force hitting the streets. Thanks again for following along and supporting me through this journey. Stick around because its not over!!!!!