Somebody Call the Fire Department

…to hose me down. It’s hot here today in Portland!

Whew.  Hi, friends!

No need to call anyone to force me to take a shower or shave my legs because I did that after being in my own sweat for four hours. I was unconscious for most of that time though since I took a nap after my run.

I ran today starting at 8:30 in Lake Oswego where the snobby, rich people live. It’s one of my favorite towns in Oregon to run in just because I like running by the mansions and Audi’s. I pretend like I belong.

I finished my run a bit before 10:30 due to bathroom breaks and breaks to stop and breathe because I was dying. It was so hot I took my top off. I didn’t put it back on until I started running by a park with children. I felt wrong.

Damn myself though. I forgot to re-press the start button after I stopped at 1:09 so I probably ran for another 10-15 minutes before realizing it.

So, I know I ran for over 1:33 minutes today, but I don’t know how much exactly. My Garmin says I ran 13.87 miles, but it had to be 14 point something. Whateva. I know I ran my best.

Yeah, right. I just laughed in my own face.

By the way, I ran in my new shoes!

No better way to break in a pair of shoes than by running 14 miles in them.

I didn’t take a picture of them on my feet yet (because I suppose you want to see that. I don’t know.) because my legs looked like a hippie’s armpit. Anyway, they felt super light and they fit snuggly. I hope that they continue to feel A-Oh-kay. I swear Adidas makes the best running shoes. Nike can suck it.

You know what else can suck it?

Get your head out of the gutter, Pippa. You are better than that.

My hunger. Or should I say my lack of hunger.

Yesterday I was not hungry at all. I didn’t even eat dinner during my lunch break at work. I waited until 9:30 then I had tofu pizza.

During my break, I just had some bubble tea and stuffed mushrooms.

However, in the last few days, my hunger has gone from wanting to eat everything...

 to nothing at all.

I am just not hungry. It blows because I like eating food so I eat it anyway.

I like big burritos and I cannot lie.

Suck it, non-hunger pains. I’m continuing to eat until you come back.

 

You Know You’re a Runner When…

you steal running surveys from other runners.

What is your favorite type of cross training?

I use the elliptical a lot. I also lift weights and bike, but lifting is my favorite. I find it relaxing.

What is your favorite song to run to?

I never run to music honestly. I’ll listen to some beforehand like Pink or something upbeat just to get me pumped up.

What brand of shoes do you wear?

Currently it’s Adidas. I still am thinking about getting New Balance shoes.

I have had my fair share of shoes though. This isn’t even all of them. I have three more that aren’t pictured. Well, four pairs actually.

Do you wear a hat when you run?

Only if it is raining, which happens when you live in Portland.

What temperature is your favorite for running?

In the 50′s or 60′s. Anything that isn’t too hot or too cold so I can just wear shorts and a tee.

Do you have any big races coming up?

I have a half marathon on July 4th! Holla.

What is your favorite distance?

I have done many distances like 400, 800, 1500, 3000, 20k, 15k, 12k, and a 10k. I like anything that is long so a 15k. I have run a half marathon, but not a half marathon race so we’ll see how that goes. I love long distances. Hey, I see a marathon in my future.

Are you a morning, noon, or evening runner?

Morning all the way! I hate noon running. I don’t know why. I do run in the evening if I have to. Besides, all my XC practices are in the evening.

Do you run solo or with a buddy?

Obviously during XC season I am with my team. I like to run solo so I can go at my own pace. For me, sometimes a buddy just slows you down. I know, that sounds really selfish. I do like running with friends though.

This picture may show otherwise. I’m the one obviously running in the opposite direction. What’s wrong with me? 

What is your favorite post run snack?

My yogurt bowl mess of nut butters, Greek yogurt, protein bar, and protein powder. I eat that with fruit.

What is your favorite race?

So far, I haven’t done many races outside of XC season. However, up to this point, my favorite race has been the Forest Park Trail Race 20k. I love me some trails.

As for XC meets, my favorite was at state when my team and I were seconds away from not making the start.

Though, having one of our meets in San Francisco was amazing!

Do you wear a Garmin? If not, how do you track your distance?

I definitely wear a Garmin. Period.

What is my least favorite race?

Regional’s in Idaho. I was just not into it. You know how you have those days were you’re off and you just know, “Oh, this run/race/workout isn’t going to be that great because I’m not into it.”? That’s how I felt.  I was into the warmup before the race. My team and I were listening to Blink 182 and singing while we ran, but other than that, I was not pumped up. I was just, like, super nervous about the start. Besides, it was f-ing cold.

Where is your favorite medal from?

XC season. It was my first year doing XC and I got a medal for being Rookie of the Year and Senior of the Year.

Who is your running idol?

I love Pam Reed. I wouldn’t say she is my running idol per say, but I really adore her. I love her book. She deals with anorexia. She’s like 100 pounds, but knocks out 20+ miles a day. Also, Pam Reed doesn’t let her weight slow her down despite what people think about her. She may look crazy in her pictures, but she’s so inspirational for women runners. Read her book. It’s fantastic.

I also worship Dean Karnazes. He’s just so badass. I think I like him a lot because his books were the first running books I picked up.

How long have you been a runner?

Basically since the middle/end of junior year of high school so maybe a little over a year and a half. I picked up running since I stopped doing boot camps and kickboxing. I didn’t join track until junior year then I loved running so much I joined cross-country senior year. That’s when I became a runner. I stopped focusing on running to be fit, but I focused on running to better myself and to compete. I love competition.

Do you run with your wedding/engagement ring on?
Well, since I am not married…. no.

What is your favorite workout? tempo? long run? fartlek? repeats?
I like long runs and fartleks. Tempos are okay if you’re with someone. Same with repeats. I need to be with someone to enjoy it.

What is your favorite place to run?
I have a favorite running route currently, but I do just love running in the woods.

Do you use Gu?
Nope. I never have. Old school! Actually, not really old school. I just never had the need for Gu.

What do you drink to keep hydrated?
Water. I drink so much that I pee like all the time. You know you’re a runner when you have considered peeing in public just behind a tree because that’s what you do when you’re on a run.

What do you take with you on a run? Does it vary by distance?
Just my Garmin and maybe my car keys. And my legs. I need those.

Question for you:

How did you know when you were a runner? (Funny or serious)
Or, if you don’t run, how did you know you were a cyclist/weight lifter/etc? 

…you learn to blow snot from your nose while running. (I have mastered that.)
…you know where every public bathroom is on your run. (So true for me.)
…a good run has scars to prove it.

…serving sizes don’t matter anymore.
…you enjoy running hills.
…you have some nasty veins in your feet and ankles.
…every road you drive on you think what a great hill workout this would be.
…you take pictures of yourself in the bathroom after a good run.

…a burrito the size of a small infant doesn’t fill you.

Running Shoes > Regular Shoes

I wish I had miracle news and could say my foot is all better, but it’s not. I did roll it out today, did some stretching, and iced. I am hoping for anything at this point. This is the second time and I am sick of it.

Whateva, whateva. Time goes on. No need to call the waaahhhhh-bulance.

I’ve been doing some shoe research and narrowed it down to these bad boys that may help my plantar fasciitis:

   New Balance 890 

“Engineered from the ground up, the neutral 890 is a new kind of lightweight shoe, each part designed with purpose. The full ground contact outsole is just as compatible with midfoot and forefoot strikes as it is with a traditional heel strike. Innovative diamond shapes cut in relief from the extra-durable REVlite midsole provide as much function as fashion, and the coordinating diamond motif on the outsole helps with grip and transition.”

I like the fact that they have flat laces that slide through uniquely flat lacing holes, locking them in place and preventing top-of-foot discomfort. I actually really, really like these.

Women’s Saucony ProGrid Guide 4

“The perfect everyday training shoe, the ProGrid Guide 4 is the next rendition of the award-winning ProGrid Guide 3. Ideal for light stability runners, the Guide 4 offers a dual density midsole for motion control and support throughout the entire gait cycle – ensuring a great run every time!”

I’m somewhat iffy on these.

Saucony ProGrid Mirage 

“This shoe combines midsole heights often associated with a racing shoe, but provides enough cushioning and protection for daily running. The result is a light weight trainer that provides a smooth ride and with a touch of support, the Mirage works well for neutral runners or mild over-pronators.”

Those are it for now. What running shoe works best for you? And, if you suffered from a running injury such as plantar fasciitis, what running shoe helped?

——————————————————————————————

Good thing I got a job and a second interview for another job on Tuesday because I have a huge wishlist.

I definitely want an iPhone.

Another pair of Vans. I have like ten or so. If I’m not wearing running shoes, I am in a pair of Vans.
 Hello! I need summer clothes. More shorty shorts and rompers please.
 And I need to load up on protein. I wish I could find all the awesomesauce flavors you guys get like cake mix or whatever.
Well, the rest of my Saturday is going to be spent at the mall and eating food that may include Dairy Queen’s blizzard of the month. But I don’t want to get ahead of myself.

Have a good weekend!

Honorable eats from a shitty phone:

Starbuck’s egg white + spinach + feta wrap

Iced coffee
Sushi x 4854

Question of today:

What’s on your wishlist? 

I’m Ready, I’m Ready

Tomorrow is the big 20k trail race! I have to say, mentally I am ready. Physically, I feel rather well. I did an easy 6 mile run this morning and 45 minutes of weights. Nothing too crazy.

I did discover what F-ed up my knee: my Green Silence shoes. I know, right? The first few times I wore them, they felt great and then one day I was running and my knee just went out. Lately, I have been wearing a pair of super old Nikes that have probably 300+ miles on them. That’s a rough estimate. When wearing them, my knee doesn’t act up. It pisses me off really, but I’m just  glad I figured it out; that it’s not entirely me that screwed up, it was my shoes. Great.

Anyway, about the Forest Park 20k Race.

I’ll be running the pink path.
It’s out and back for the 20k racers. I am so excited. My mom is like, “So, what time does it start so I know when you are going to ruin my day?”  Gee, thanks. She did this last time too. She acts like my running is the biggest inconvenience ever.

I was just looking at the racers who entered and I am pretty sure I am the second youngest. That’s intimidating actually. Then, there is some guy coming from Japan. I’m starting to feel butterflies. I just hope that it isn’t to grueling since I have not been able to train like I wanted to due to lamesauce injuries. Whateva, whateva.

By the way, NO MORE SCHOOL! I’M A FREE WOMAN…

… after Tuesday when I have my final exam. I only have to take two exams and one is just a take home essay. I graduate officially on June 4th.

Shout to Hollie since she is running a 10k!

Anyway, if you have advice, wisdom, hopeful messages for my race, I’d love to hear them. I need some pick me ups and some killer music. Pump it!

Honorable eats:

Smoked tofu w/ veggies and humus 

Baby shrimp, cream cheese, avacado, green onion crepe from Pudding on the Rice 

French Lentil soup from Portland Soup Co. 
Hand Made Mozzerella Sandwich w/ dried Tomatoes, Arugula, Red Onions, Citrus Vinaigrette, + Virgin Rosemary Aioli from Portland Soup Co. 

Are you racing this weekend?

How was your weekend overall?

Catch Up

Hello, hello! Is it odd that I missed blogging? I feel like such a terrible blogger though. I don’t know how you guys blog daily.

Where to begin? Well, first off, I got a puppy! He’s a German short-haired pointer meaning he will be a future running dog for me when I hit the trails.

I originally wanted a Vizsla since I know they are basically the number one running dog, but my family (my mom and brother) decided they wanted a pointer because it was way cuter. Whatever. Either way he is so cute. We – I – named him Dean after Dean Karnazes. He better be a runner. According to Runner’s World, German short-haired pointers are good for long, steady runs (ten miles), going fast, and running on trails. I tried to walk him the other day and he started to cry so I turned around. We walked for about five minutes. I’m sure he’ll find his calling soon.

I have been trying to get photos of my other billion animals, yet I only got three photos.
 

———————————————————————————————-

As for running, it’s been going very well. Knock on wood. I have been trying to strengthen my feet and legs by wearing my Vibrams every day. I finally had the guts to wear them at school. Everyone kept saying, “Christy, those are such cool shoes! I want a pair. Are they comfortable? They look weird. What do you do with them?” As if people at school don’t think I am freak already, I’ll just add toe shoes to the mix.

Monday: I set out to run three – five miles and I ran eight or so. My foot was just a little sore, but not painful.

Tuesday: I did six hill repeats with a 15-minute warm up and I think a 15minute cool down. All together, I did about seven miles.

Wednesday: I went easy with a plan of doing five miles or so. I think I did nine miles in one hour and five minutes. I feel like a slug. In March I ran a 10k in one hour and two minutes.
Thursday: My foot was really sore so I stuck with the elliptical and weights. I ran about a mile in addition, but I didn’t really feel like running anymore so I went back to the elliptical.
Friday: I covered over nine miles in about one hour and seven minutes. I did something to my right knee while running because it gave out a few times. Then, I had a realization if I didn’t favor my right foot and just ran, my knee felt okay. I didn’t really have any foot pain either.  My ankle was hurting, but maybe that’s because my shoes were too tight. Any ideas?

A guy took a picture of me running too. I’m famous now.

One of my goals for April was to take running slow and build my endurance again, yet I barely did that. I probably went too quickly in adding mileage, but it was excruciating or anything. Wearing my Vibrams for just walking around is something I am still going to continue with because I notice they help a lot. My legs are tender from wearing them, which for me is a good thing. My foot’s pain has decreased too since I got my new shoes. It’s great. I hope I don’t jinx myself.

———————————————————————————————

In April, I gave myself four goals that included start swimming, listen to my body, take running up again slowly, and cycle more. I realized that giving myself goals each month is almost silly. I give myself goals constantly. Each week I think of something I want to achieve and I aim for it. Giving myself monthly goals is pointless for me. I don’t think I am going to type out what I want to achieve for May. Mostly I just want to run more, run farther, run faster, and do well in my trail race.

However, I did cycle more in the month of April. I cycled to the store, mail office, and my tanning salon. Yeah, I tan. Yeah, it is most likely terrible for me, but I look better with a tan. Anyway, I somewhat listened to my body. I became more conscious of my hunger and pains then acted accordingly. I did not swim more. I will when school ends though since my gym now offers swimming lessons. I can swim. I just don’t know all the fancy strokes and what not about it. I can doggy paddle and that’s about it.

Speaking of the gym, why am I overly modest when it comes to changing in the women’s locker room? Women get completely butt naked and try to have a conversation with me. I find it so odd. I don’t even know where to look when they’re asking me questions. It’s so awkward. Perhaps I’m too modest. That’s a lie. I’m a runner. I have peed in public during the day, barely behind a bush. I also do snot rockets while running and picked wedgies. I’m just not going naked and then asking my friend about the weather.

———————————————————————————————–

On a final note, I plan on meeting Kara Goucher Monday since she is doing a book signing. I plan to become BFF’s with Kara and then skip to Coldstone with her. I have coupons.

That’s all that I remember that I was dying to share. I bet I left out some juicy stuff like how I wrote Coldstone because I was pissed off at  them and now I get free ice cream. Wanna hear that?

Honorable eats: 

Sweet potato

Any goals for May?

Are you modest at the gym? Any strange gym stories? 

Bipolar Running

Thank you for the blog suggestions. I really want people to not only read my blog, but also like and enjoy what I have to say. Thanks again. I’m still open to any suggestions for my blog.

—————————————————————————————

Okay, on to business.

I have picked up running again because, honestly, my foot has been feeling better. It’s sore at times(not painful), but I’m sure that is to be expected after getting off an injury. My feet aren’t used to running as they were months ago. In addition, I think my feet are bit more sore because I switched my shoes to minimalist shoes and I have been running ever so slightly in my amazing Vibrams.

I do love my new shoes though! They feel remarkable. I swear I am never running in Nike shoes again. I strongly believe that they messed up my foot. Not entirely though since I was running excessively, but still. Too much cushioning in your running shoe is impractical. Why ruin running with shoes that destroy the natural state of the foot and how it runs? The more cushioning, the more you are taking away from the foot’s natural state.

I am still not running the way I want to right now. I want to be running a full hour, but I am so afraid to. I’m afraid that I will be re-injured or see how much I am sweating while running then convince myself that I suck at running now. None of it is true. I am still runner. I get asked daily at the gym if I’m a runner. (I guess I look like one.) I know I can run an hour even if it is on the treadmill. As soon as the weather brightens up, I will be running outside again.

I still love running. I wish I could do it all the time and I wish that my stupid injury never happened. No sense in wishing though. I think getting my injury was helpful in a way because I discovered new things and learned that I need to listen to my body when it wants a break from running miles. I discovered I love water aerobics, spin class, and lifting. I discovered I can still be fit and in shape without running constantly.

With that said, I need to get my ass running more because I entered a trail race that is a 20k (12 miles). Am I excited? Hell yeah. Do I think I can do it when it’s only a month away? Yes. Do I think it will be my best race ever? Probably not. I’m just getting back into running and no way can I expect myself to nail this race. First off, I never done a trail race before. I am so pumped though. I just want run now.

Any help in creating a 20k training program? I think I can do it with just logging in some miles and hills, but I need more than that. If you know anyone or any site that can help me create a training program, drop me a note.

I will officially start training on Monday, which will give me 28 days to train. I think I can do it. I really do. I really just need to be confident in myself. I took barely a full month off from running due to my foot injury and I continued working out that whole time. I may not be the same runner I was in February, but I absolutely have new strengths as a runner.

I am really bipolar about this whole running issue. Can’t you tell?

I don’t want to bore you guys with my running problems so I stole this survey from http://movesnmunchies.wordpress.com/.

Clothing style:  I call it the ‘lazy bum who doesn’t care about much’ look.
Nail polish color: Neon colors.
Make up item: Mascara.
Stores: Vans, Zuimez, PacSun.
Sport: Basketball is my favorite.
Clothing item: Running shorts. Hah.
Shape: Circle.
Number: 3.
Sports team: Chicago all the way.
Color: Purple.
Breakfast item: Eggs.
Type of music: Alternative. Dare I say I started listening to country? Who am I?
Song: Currently anything by Adele.
TV show: It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
TV channel: NBC, Food Network, Comedy Central.
Magazine: Runner’s World.
Hair style: Straight.
Hair length: Long. Very long.
Shoe type: Vans slip ons. I might as well Velcro shoes.
Animal: Cats and dogs.
Transportation: A car, but I bike too.
School subject: How about no.
Talk show: Does Chelsea Handler count?
Fruit: Apples.
Vegetable: Brussels sprouts.
Vacation spot: I don’t know! Anywhere tropical.
Book: Harry Potter series.
Eye color: Green.
Hair color: Blonde.
Hobby: Running, reading, complaining.
Flower: Tulips.
Sound: …of music.
Holiday: Christmas.
Scent: Vanilla.
Culture food:  Italian and Mexican.
Restaurant: I suppose this little German restaurant by my house.
Month: Summer months.

Honorable Eats:

Chocolate cakes
Sauerkraut on rye (I’m addicted to sauerkraut now)
 Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting
Caramel Vanilla bean cake
 Dutch apple pie
 

Fried eggs + brussels + hashbrowns + broccoli + mushrooms

Are you training for a race?
- “The worst thing you can give a runner midrace is false hope. What causes you to tense up is the unexpected; but as long as you know what you’re in for, you can relax and chip away at the job.”

If you been sidelined from running, how did you regain your confidence in running again?

Show n Tell

Happy Easter, everyone! I hope you’re celebrating with lots of chocolate.

I started my Easter day with a workout. Of course. Who am I to take a rest day? However, I ran. I ran for 45 minutes in these…

and twenty-two minutes in these…

No, your eyes do no deceit you. These are Vibrams and they felt amazing on my feet! They felt better than the other new pair I got, which are pretty sweet regardless.

I finished my run on the dreadmill with 30 minutes on the elliptical. I love the fact that I can run again. I just feel so slow. I range from 7 – 7:30 minute miles. Before my injury, I was around just 7-minute miles and less. I also feel like I lost my running endurance. Maybe it’s all in my head, but I leave the gym covered in sweat. Maybe it’s because I’m exercising inside and not outside in 40 degree weather. I don’t know why I’m insane either. I covered seven plus miles though. I’m getting back on track again.

Obviously, I’m off balanced because I was worried about going out to brunch today. I never eat breakfast or lunch out. I always have my weekend meals planned so if I go off the plan it freaks me out. I barely ate breakfast. I had a banana. Then after I worked out, I had a peach Chobani yogurt and a pear. Despite my worry, brunch was incredible. My mom, brother, and I went to a little cafe where I got a dungeness crab omelette. I was starving that I ate the toast, hashbrowns, and sauce that came with it. I’m sure I’ll be starving later despite all that I ate. I don’t know why I worry about it so much.

Anyway, you guys should give me a pat on the back for getting dressed this week. I dressed like a lazy bum 4/7 days. It’s a start, right?

Oh, yes. How could I forget? NO BRACES ANYMORE!

Enough photos of me. I don’t want to make you guys jealous. Rightttt…

I bought Tina Fey’s new book and it is hilarious.

Go check it out if you’re a fan of her or 30 Rock. 30 Rock, by the way, is my favorite show. I don’t want it to end.

Even though today was gloomy and rainy, Friday and Saturday were gorgeous. It got to 69 degrees yesterday.

Well, I hope you guys enjoy your Easter. Go crazy and take a two-hour nap if you ever feel so inclined. Hold on. Let’s not forget my honorable eats…

Crab cakes + broccoli + mushrooms

Banana cake from New Seasons (I went back for seconds)

Coffee cake 

Cat fish + corn + rice + Brussels 

How are you enjoying your Easter?

What shoes do you run in?

Any suggestions on how to survive the treadmill?

Don’t Even Get Me Started

It’s no surprise that I love magazines.

I have subscriptions to Runner’s World, Women’s Health, Fitness, Health, and Shape. Then, occasionally I buy Self and Oxygen. Sounds like a waste of money, yeah? Maybe, but I don’t care.

I recently picked up the newest issue of Self Magazine since Gwyneth Paltrow was on the cover with smokin’ abs.

I mostly love every article in Self, yet lately their ‘meal plans’ have been irritating me. Their idea of a snack is an apple – no problem there – and four almonds. Four almonds? If you go over, you had better get your fat ass on the treadmill. Lunch was a peanut butter sandwich with (yes count ‘em) ten baby carrots. I guess I just find it silly to put such a limit like that on carrots or something healthy like a vegetable when I eat a pile of brussels sprouts with my two fish fillets, corn, and rice. I know these magazines are for women who generally want to drop a few pounds, but eating over ten carrots isn’t going to make you gain weight.

People at my school are normally alarmed at how much I eat. Half of them think I don’t eat actually so I’m lying, yet they are shocked that I can put away so much food. Women can eat over the range of 1200 – 1500 calories? With exercise, I can easily eat more than that. Even on days I take it ‘easy’ (let’s face it, I don’t do that), I can eat. I eat dessert every night if I want it. Ice cream is my food staple. According to these ‘fitness’ magazines though, I should be wider than a school bus. I suppose I am just breaking the rules of how women should eat and exercise. Don’t even get me started on women getting ‘toned’ and lifting weights.

——————————————————————————————–

Yesterday I ran. Yes! Today I ran. Woohoo! I only ran for ten minutes today and it was on the oh so fun treadmill and without shoes. I ran in my socks. I realized that I am a huge heel striker on my right foot, which is my injured foot. I hope to change that when I get some Vibrams over the weekend, hopefully. My fingers are crossed. Just to clarify, my whole foot isn’t injured. I only get pain in my big toe or on the left side of my right foot. I have started icing again and soaking my foot in Epsom salt. Supposedly Epsom salt will reduce the swelling of sprains and bruises. Maybe it’s helping. I don’t know. Maybe I should do some foot stretches though to make my foot stronger…? Any tips?

I am torn between getting a pair of Vibrams or these: http://www.merrell.com/US/en-US/Product.mvc.aspx/22877W/0/Womens/Barefoot-Pace-Glove?dimensions=0

I still think I am going to go with the Vibrams.

Now onto to some honorable eats:

White bean spinach salad with onions and an egg

This was Heaven

P.S.

I got my braces off yesterday! I would show a picture, but I’m going to wait until I don’t look like a lazy bum realizing that they have this thing called makeup and jeans.

Do any fitness magazines irritate you with their health tips and articles?

Who else hates the evil treadmill?
-I just want to run outside forever and ever and ever. Damn foot. FYI, I ran outside yesterday and the hard surface bothered my foot.

“Strive for that greatness of spirit that measures life not by its disappointments but by its possibilities.”  -W. E. B. Du Bois

I Just Wanna Race!

Maybe it is because of the hoopla over the Boston Marathon or just the fact that I haven’t run in almost a month, but I just want to race. I love racing! It feeds my competitive drive. There is nothing like lining up at the starting line and feeling that rush of nerves. Then the gun pops and you blast off.

My last race was the Shamrock Run 15k. It was my first long distant race outside of cross-country and not to beep my own horn or anything, but I did really well. I finished in an hour and won this…

I got this for being first in my age group.

I miss racing and training for something. I’m thinking I am going to sign up for a trail race too when I feel confident in my running again. That’s a lie. I am going to sign up for any race I want when I feel like I can run without any tenderness. Which reminds me, I ran yesterday and today.

Lululemon had a running expo last night and it started with a short run. My foot didn’t hurt, but I can feel it – whatever it is – in my big toe. At the running event, I won a Lululemon key holder and got some neat free stuff. I love that store despite the fact that I can’t afford it. On the short run I ran with two people who run ultras. The woman has done 26 ultras and she brought all her belt buckles. God. I was so jealous. I wish I could just be her friend and we could run all the time. I’m weird. It’s okay.

Anyway, I ran today for 45 minutes on the treadmill even though I told myself to run for twenty and to wait until the 21st to pick up running again. Again, my big toe doesn’t cause me pain, but I can feel a little twinge when I do run. Right now my foot feels alright since I iced it, but if it hurts tomorrow, I am definitely not running. If you know anything about foot injuries, feel free to offer me some guidance. I could use it.

But really now. How could I not run when I got new gear?

More like semi fast because I could only run 8 minute miles today

Also, how could I not run when three people keep ask me if I am runner because I look like one? I feel like a loser saying, “I run, but not now since I’m an idiot who is injured so…”

As for this weekend, I was productive. I cleaned my car, bought my mom an Easter gift, the whole house, walked the dogs, went to see Scream 4, grocery shopped, and obviously fitted in spin classes. I tried Indian food for the first time and was not impressed. Then I began looking into minimalist shoes a bit more. I talked my mom into getting me a pair, possibly even Vibrams. However, if I get a pair of barefoot running shoes, where should I start? What brand? Any recommendations?

To wrap this up, I am glad last week is over! I was extremely stressed and didn’t get dressed for, like, a week. By dressed I mean I didn’t wear jeans.

I did do my hair one day though. Like the Playboy bunnies on my phone? So classy.

Honorable eats:

Cinnamon raisin bread pudding

Asparagus frittata

Coconut cake

Do you like racing?

Do you like dressing like a lazy bum like me? (Thankfully I go to an all girl school.)