goals

I'm definitely in the NYC Marathon in November, which I am thrilled about. BUT, after watching the Boston Marathon last week I know now that I really want to qualify to run Boston. However, getting there is going to be a bit out of my comfort zone....So, I am not declaring anything as of yet. Rather, here is my declared goal 4 hour marathon. That feels attainable at a 9:00 min per mile pace. (my Boston pace would have to be an 8:10) BUT, I would really like to see myself finish in the 3 hours and 45 minute range, which would put me at my 8:23 min per mile pace.

Now, part II, and this is a hard one. I think I need to lose some pounds. I know logically that I am not overweight, but I also know that my clothes are not fitting like they did a couple of years ago and that I could be faster. I also know that when I am eating better that I feel better. The hard part about this is, I am simply unsure how to move these pounds. Monitor calories? Go vegan for a time? I'm just not sure about what is best. Monitoring calories has been my go to for years and it worked for a long time for me. However, it seems that over time I stayed right where I was at 144 or I gained. When I went vegan for a time to try it out and see how it made me feel, I dropped to 139 pretty easily and I didn't feel sluggish. BUT, vegan is strict! I can easily go meatless....no biggie... I can swap milk for soy with little effort... My issues come with carbs, eggs, and dairy. I struggle already to keep my protein high. I am thinking that I might try to outline a eating plan for myself that is workable for me.

1. I will go meatless: however I will remain a flexaterian and keep eggs, some milk, some cheese, and Greek yogurt. I will try to limit these things, but I know that protein is essential to building my muscle and muscle memory is essential to getting my times next November.
2. I will limit sugar: I am planning on cutting out sweets for at least 2 weeks. Then in two weeks I will check back in to see how I feel about this and if I want to reintegrate some sweets.
3. Caffeine: GOD BLESS, I know I am an addict. I will monitor my diet coke consumption. So, what I mean by this, is BEFORE AND AFTER ever caffeinated beverage I will drink a bottle of water. I know this will not necessarily change the amount of diet cokes that I consume, but I think it will help.
4. Calories: I am going to eat as much fruit and veggies as I can and I will just check to make sure that my nutrients are balanced.

This is the plan for today I'll check back in with myself tomorrow, I suppose.

Budgets in Texas are Ugly

The Texas Budget crisis has taken over the news, the schools, and the water-cooler talk everywhere I go. I spend a great deal of time fretting over the jobs of myself, my husband, my friends and even my daughter's teacher....but in the end, it is what it is. So, I am going to put it in a bubble and blow it away for a few days. When the senate finishes their votes I will know more, but as for today and the next week....I am letting it go. BOSTON NEXT WEEK! I could not be more excited! Also, I have been thinking a lot lately about improving my running in general. I am thrilled about that.