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.

One week

One week from today I am turning 30.

I have taken off work and I have made a decision, that despite the fact that I have not been training well, I will be running 30 miles on my 30th. The proposition of that idea is actually really exciting to me. I wish I could explain what it is that I feel when I am running....it's a combination of the solitude, the pain, the music, the being outside, the conquest, and other things that I just can't put into words. So, I plan on running it, even if it is cold and snowy. (my mom kept giving birth to me, even though it hurt and I was stubborn....so in a sense, it makes sense.)

After that I plan on eating, sleeping, and getting a new tattoo. I know....but hey.

I need a run....

Today, I lost it. Not on purpose, but I lost it none the less. Another teacher used some of my materials. Materials that I spent several hours creating. I was territorial about it....I was generally a jerk about it. It was a sad. So, I swallowed my anger, let it go and went on. I shouldn't have gotten mad at all....I mean we are all here for the same reason. I have a vested interest in being a team player. So, with that over.... I need to say.... I NEED A RUN TOMORROW.

we are going to be spending the weekend at my parents. My mom and dad are hosting my husband's family. It is actually wonderful that both of my families get along so well, and I am really looking forward to the time with both of them. My sister in law in flying in and my husband is taking off of church on Sunday so we can stay the whole weekend. I am thrilled.

I plan on running while there. I have the route planned out and I am super excited. I just need to stay away from lululemon. My addiction is getting scary.