Tall Mom on the Run

I can't keep up...

2012-01-27T07:45:00.000-08:00

There are times in life when it is HARD to maintain the pace... Right now my Big Girl job is all encompassing, leaving little time for much else. When I get home all I want to do is be with my family, nowhere near the computer and I have no desire run..

I was able to fit in a run this week with Kerrie @ Mom vs. Marathon, she had a tempo run and I thought that 8:13 pace would be fine.. I have been feeling off, very low energy. While traveling last week I hopped from time zone to time zone putting in full days in car, planes, etc... It was exhausting and I did not run...

Me before the run, full of promise. We ran quickly up a big hill then were hit in the face with wind, I realized that I could not breath and I was ZAPPED.. At 2.8 miles I had to walk, check my ego and tell Kerrie to go on without me.

I CAN'T KEEP UP

Kerrie was sweet and altered her workout to run slower with me. I had a horrible side ache and felt light headed. I struggled to maintain a pace in the 9's and was HAPPY when Kerrie and I parted so I could walk.

Maybe I am coming down with something?

Maybe it is exhaustion?

Maybe I am totally out of shape after 1 week?

Whatever it is...

I CAN'T KEEP UP

So I am going to give myself a BREAK. I am not going to stress about running, training for a fast 5K, blogging, or anything else that does not fit in... I want to reconnect with my family and get the rest I need to find my ENERGY.. Hopefully the break will be short, I really want to get the Tall Mom 1,000+++ Club Going...

For now Run a few miles for me and I will be in touch SOON...

Credit HERE

Welcome to my new Home

2012-01-25T07:56:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my New Home!!!

Special thanks to Angie at Strosgirldesigns.com for helping me make my Blog all me. There are a few things I am still working on, but overall I LOVE the new look..

FEATURES:

-Header with Scrolling Photos from my favorite trails, a Daisy for my mom and new Tall Mom Logo.

-Background picture is one I took from my trail..

-Menu with links to past Blog (under construction)

Thanks for following Tall Mom!! I truly appreciate you stopping by!!

Back HOME

2012-01-24T12:03:00.000-08:00

My Travels are done, for now, and I am HOME!!! The trip took a lot out of me, leaving little energy for running or working out. I got home at 10:15PM Sunday and took Monday off to be with the family..

It was a SUNNY DAY!!! So we set out for a little RUN.. there was a major Ice Storm last week leaving Trees down all over the city. The sidewalk to LS#1's school is blocked in several places, so running to pick him up was out.. We went to the local trail hopeful that we could get in a good run...
I LOVE LOVE Muscle Man's shirt!! HEHE
I am sure it was a nice change for MM to push one kiddo.. he looked so CUTE in his shades.. We made it nearly a mile and the trail was fully blocked by 2 trees which made an X. BUMMER!! All in all was a good 2 mile run, to get back to it.

I am SWAMPED with little time for Blogging, Running, ETC...
The new Tall Mom Blog will be revealed this week!!! I hope you like it..
What's new with you??

Run Happy With Brooks

2012-01-23T15:19:00.000-08:00

It is no secret that I am a HUGE Brooks Running fan!! Most of my Running T-Shirts are Brooks EZ-T's HERE. I was looking through Some old photos and I wanted to take you through my Brooks Run Happy Journey...

10K at Alki, I was a bit too hot.. I also converted Muscle Man to a Brooks Fan
Brooks Diva Jacket Picking up my Boston race packet.
And Again with my Run Happy Hat on a soggy run with buddies
I even sport the old school Brooks for Her Jacket at the Zoo
Last year the the Rock N Roll Expo I bought a Mens shirt and I LOVE IT!!
Wore my "Run" EZ-T 2010 when I qualified for Boston at Eugene Marathon
And the same shirt on several runs with my friends
This RUN shirt has seen a lot of action!! Here at the Mercer Island Half Marathon
And on a COLD day
I love my bright Run Happy Shirts for work lunch runs..
This Orange shirt was my go-to shirt in 2009 for most of my races.. 5K
And another 5K
And a Family 5 miler..
Wowzers!! So why am I telling you this? Brooks is based in Washington, LOVE LOVE and Brooks Makes high quality Running Apparel, Accessories and Shoes.. So go get your Shop on HERE and like them on Facebook HERE. This post does not touch on my Brooks Shoes obsession, more about that soon..

**I have been sent free gear from Brooks to review on my blog I am not compensated for my opinion and all thoughts are my own.

Where is the World is Tall Mom?

2012-01-18T17:38:00.000-08:00

Answer is PANAMA....

I am not jazzed about Panama City. I respect the culture and all they are doing to improve, but the traffic, construction noise and brown water from the canal dredging are a bit off-putting.. Once we got out of the city to the wide blue ocean and green jungle I was mesmerized by the beauty.

My only workout to speak of was climbing the 100++ steps of this tower to see the view above the jungle..
I found Heaven on Earth!!! So beautiful the pictures do not capture the epic beauty..
I should have asked the man who "owned" the island how much for these shells?
I love the old and new in the same photo...

I am on to a new destination tomorrow early AM, I HOPE to get in a few miles there and most likely will not have time to blog again until I get home...

I am in HOT HOT Land while Muscle Man, the Little Studs and all RUNNING in the Pacific Northwest are covered in a blanket of snow :)

Wow do I miss this little face... and my house full of boys...

Have you ever run in a country other than your own? Leave a comment and tell us all about the experience.

See you Soon!!

2012-01-13T13:15:00.000-08:00

I had visions of posts for the 1,000+++ Club, Goals, etc... BUT...

I HAVE A BIG GIRL JOB

and

that Big Girl Job requires my

FULL ATTENTION and TRAVEL

Can't tell you the details but I will be not be Blogging for a while..

You can find me on Facebook HERE and DailyMile HERE assuming I get any running in...

Aspire to Inspire,

Tall Mom

Thinking about FOOD

2012-01-12T07:54:00.000-08:00

On my 2012 Goals Post HERE I talked about creating a CHALLENGE for myself every month. Why each month and not the whole year?? Because I would like to try things out and see how my body responds.

I cant speak for all Moms but my body has changed drastically since having kids. In my younger, kid-free, days I could eat whatever, whenever with no consequence and I never had use for Tums.. These days I don't know what is going to cause me to bloat or keel over to the fetal position in PAIN.. This year I want to take an active approach to testing new ways of eating to see how I feel.
My Key areas of focus:

1. Energy Level. If food is fuel, which fuel will give me the most SPARK??

2. Cost and availability. It is a known fact that is costs more to eat well (unless you forrage in the forest or something) but as a one-income family I cannot afford to break the bank in the grocery department. I also don't want poor Muscle man to drive all over the place to specialty stores for me.

3. Taste. Life is short. I love to eat. I refuse to eat something that tastes like tree-bark to get in the required fiber for the day.

Below are my ideas so far:

FEBRUARY= No Chocolate and no sweets at work. This will be a CHALLENGE with Feb being Valentines month, the work food table is sure to be full of tasty sweet treats. I may change it to be no sweets at all, but I will decide that on Feb 1st :)

MARCH= GO Gluten Free. My Mom is already following this lifestyle so I can go to her for advice and tips. I may have to take a CHEAT day on March 17th when I set a new 5K PR and celebrate with a post-race adult beverage!

I posted on Facebook HERE to get some ideas about good Monthly Challenges. Below are some great ideas MONTHLY challenges from commenters.

Lesley- Snack= fruit, vegetable or yogurt.

Kendyl- Vegetarian

Sybil- Raw foods or vegan

Amanda and Jessica- No processed foods!! Only foods made with fresh ingredients.

Catey and Nancy- Sugar Elimination

Marlene- No restaurants/fast food.

Becca- No meat Mondays

Thanks Ladies!!!

I have to be smart about this, the weeks leading up to the Monthly CHALLENGE will be spent researching what foods I can and should eat. I also don't want to plan a CHALLENGE for a month when I will be traveling or in heavy training..

I plan to look at my calendar and plan out the year. CHALLENGES will include my Tall Family as well. Muscle Man and the Little Studs will be along for the ride here and there this year.

Do you know of any GREAT cook books or healthy eating books that would help me out this year? Please leave a comment.
Do you have any ideas for a Monthly challenge I should try? Leave a comment.
What healthy eating strategies have you tried? What did you like and what did you not like??

Nature Run

2012-01-11T07:56:00.000-08:00

My last run with Kerrie at Mom vs. Marathon she gave me a Christmas gift.. It was a Snowy Owl tree ornament. Why a Snowy Owl?? Because I am a running bird watcher, I get JAZZED anytime I see an Eagle, Hawk, Herron, Duck, etc.. while on the run, and I spot them pretty good. So the ornament was a treasure from my good friend.. THANKS KERRIE!!

FAST FORWARD...

Kerrie and I met on Sunday morning, clear and crisp on the Foothills trail in Orting. We didn't have a pace in mind, our plan was to run 7 miles followed by coffee with Chelsea. This is a perk about not having a race to train for, we are pretty relaxed.

Soon I will start training for a FAST 5K in March in the mean time I plan to get in my weekly mileage and enjoy the run. We both felt a little off, but kept plugging along.. conversation was great an included quotes for movies like "Anchorman" and "Napolean Dynamite". There were loads of Bikers on the trail..

Early on in the run at the portion near the River we saw a Bald Eagle take off out of the water with talons hanging down, the wing span was probably over 5 feet across.. MAJESTIC!!! This set the tone for the relaxed and fun run.. There is a field with what I was calling Osprey, some Running Birdwatcher I am, I get the names wrong... I was later informed the TALL BIRD is actually is an Emu which is part of the Dinosaur family (Thanks Kerrie). She was so close to the fence we had to stop for a couple photos.. Me with my TALL friend...
She (the bird is a she we decided) was making a funny growling sound, which we took as a pur like a Kitten. I was totally comfortable, Kerrie was a bit more timid, mind you she has a fear of Canadian Geese and this creature is much larger..
2 bird sightings this was a GOOD DAY!! Our legs were turning over fast, I felt great, and realized I hadn't looked at my Garmin much at all.. The trail started to stink and I said "It's Smells Fishy!" Kerrie agreed as I looked to the water...

Don't see what we are looking at??It was a LARGE Salmon swimming upstream. CRAZY!! Now I know what the droves of Fishermen are casting for 80% of the year... what a fish!! Next we spotted my friend Jess on her last training run before her Half Marathon...quick hello and off we went.. The last mile we were SPEEDY I think we both wanted to be done, we clocked in at 8:23 pace as we saw Chelsea pull into the parking lot. GREAT 7 miles at under 9 minute pace, with loads of Nature to keep us entertained..

Love it!

I was interested to see what Nature or other things people have seen while on the run, so I posted the quotes on Facebook HERE with some crazy answers.
So I pose the same question here... Leave comments with some interesting things you have spotted on the RUN.
Details on the 1,000 Club coming this week... Thank you for your patience :)

Tall Family and Marathon Joke

2012-01-08T11:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the Tall Family went for our first run of the year.. It was Chilly but fun. We let the Little Studs out to jog for a bit and Muscle Man did the heavy pushing as always. FUN 3 miles with my guys!!!
Last night LS #2 ate a Dora Pop popsicle, he left the stick on the floor (which he usually doesn't do) I picked it up and read the JOKE on the stick.. Glad I did!!

How perfect is that joke??

Happy Sunday!!

Happy Runday!!

Goals for 2012

2012-01-06T08:12:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year when (most) people think about the year to come and what they would like to achieve. Last year we suffered the unexpected loss of my Father in October and come January I was not ready to commit to GOALS. This year I NEED to get back to Goal setting and achieving, it is the core of who I am, the person that my Dad knew me as...

I love the format RacingWithBabes took last year checking in monthly on her Goals, thanks T for the inspiration!! I plan to check in monthly to give progress on my Goals.

RUNNING:

1- Set new PR's in at least 2 distances and run more than 1,200 miles for the year.

2- Run new races. Ideas- 1 mile, 10 mile, trail race, ultra, obstacle course/mudder, etc.

3- Earn Half Fanatic Status

OVERALL FITNESS:

1- Try 5 or more new (to me) forms of Cross-Training. A modified version of the AWESOME challenge set out by Kim HERE. Ideas- Jillian Michael's videos, Triathlon (SHHHHH), Yoga, Zumba etc.

2- Work on overall Muscle tone. I plan to take body measurements EEEK to get a baseline to start with and take new measurements throughout the year. If I am not going to lose weight I may as well lose inches :)

3- 1-2 days EVERY week I will lift with Muscle Man and/or do Pilates or another cross-training exercise for 30-45 minutes.

FAMILY:

1- Help Muscle Man reach his goals, which includes getting him across his first Half Marathon Finish Line.

2- Focus on the Little Studs education and fitness. Teach Little Stud #1 to read, register him for his first official race. Spend alone and focussed time with Little Stud #2.

3- Find ways to inspire and work with my extended family on their fitness. I would LOVE to see my Tall Brother, Mom and in-laws work toward a 5K walk or fun run at some point this year.

FOOD:

1- Keep a food journal to record what I am putting in my mouth and how it impacts my energy, mood and overall health. Use this journal to create a healthy and balanced diet and to cut out the foods which cause issues.

2- Monthly diet challenges, starting in February, each month I will set a challenge for myself to cut out or add something to/from my diet.

3- Learn more about the best foods to feed my family and move the kids away from the standard kid foods.

There you have it. Lots to focus on, but all attainable with focus and dedication.

Quotes about Goals:

Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.
~Author Unknown

How am I going to live today in order to create the tomorrow I'm committed to?
~Anthony Robbins

The distance is nothing; it is only the first step that is difficult.
~Marie de Vichy

We're still not where we're going, but we're not where we were.
~Natash Jasefowitz

What are your Goals for the year?
Did you write a Blog post about it?? Link it in your comment, I would love to see what you have planned

3 Things Thursday

2012-01-05T07:51:00.000-08:00

I have many many things in motion for the Tall Mom Blog..

-Post About 2012 Goals
-Complete Blog Makeover
-1,000+++ Club details

Which leaves me a bit short on content today.. so I will take a page out of my little redhead friend and list 3 things..

1. My Mom got GREAT news yesterday!! You see my parents worked TOGETHER for years in the Shot-put and Discus events during Track Season at Sumner High School (my alma-mater). Dad always had a smile and kept close tabs on the details of the events... Someone at Sumner, not sure who, had the idea to create a plaque in honor of my Dad to be placed near the pits at the High School. This made my Mom cry and brought tears to my eyes... His Legacy was his ability to make people feel GOOD, and it is nice to see it being recognized. I plan to visit once the plaque is in place...and maybe toss a few in the pits... I did place 2nd in State my senior year in Shot=put and 8th in Discus :) 2. Running with Mom Vs. Marathon is always a blast. It was POURING buckets yesterday and I KNOW that Kerrie wanted me to cancel...I couldn't!! Call me crazy but I was looking forward to a RAINY run.. So we set out, I put on a hat and slogged to meet my buddy. We were nearly matching with Capris and long sleeve tops. Kerrie said I looked thin, THANKS!!! Always fun to chat, I may be going on a work trip and did not tell her until mile 3ish because there were other things to chat about.. Upcoming nuptials of our good buddy Chelsea, Christmas, etc... Our fingers were pruney and toes were soggy.. but all in all a GREAT 5.25 mile run.
Photo of about the same outfit I wore yesterday..BUT I had a hat FAIL.. I wore a hat which is GREAT for Summer running but now water resistant. When I got back to the Locker Room my hair was soaked and I realized that I had taken my locker towel home to wash and forgot to bring it back.. Drowned rat, drying off with paper towels and an industrial hair dryer.. CLASSIC!!

3. The Tall House is a bit boring... try basic low quality finishings... When we bought the home May 2010 we had great plans to upgrade over the years. So far we have done some minor updates, Thanks to Muscle Man and his mad skillz.. Yesterday we FINALLY bought the wood floors for the main floor!!! How does this relate to running?? The Flooring store happens to be along one of my lunch running paths, I stopped in, they had a SALE and the rest is a...

How is your 2012 going so far?
Anything FUN planned in the weeks/months to come?

Day 33 and beyond

2012-01-04T12:16:00.000-08:00

Monday I met my friend Jess for a 10 mile run, it was AWESOME!! Day 33, and if you have read this Blog for any amount of time you know my LOVE for that number. I toyed with trying to get to 50 days, heck 100... Then Tuesday came...

BAM!!!

HEADACHE!!!

I took Aleve- Nothing

I drank Coffee- Nothing

DARN!!! I relaxed on the couch and did not fit in my mile.

33 days is a GREAT streak for me.. Maybe I will try again some day.. Maybe :) How cool does it look on Dailymile to see all that Blue???

I am celebrating my accomplishment and thinking hard about what is next for me this year... Time will tell. Of course once I decide I will keep you posted.. For now I feel blessed that I was able to find a way back to my routine and my love for running. I know I CAN and should fit it in.

Details about my SOGGY run with Mom vs. Marathon tomorrow...or if you cant wait.. Go HERE

2011 Running with Tall Mom

2012-01-03T07:57:00.000-08:00

2011 Running with Tall Mom

I won't bore you with the details, because I am a bullets and pictures type of person myself... so here goes...

Total Miles Ran= 1,166

1- Relay=
Hood to Coast Relay HERE

1- Marathon=
Boston HERE- The race which proved to me that dreams do come true, but may not play out exactly as you had planned.

3- Half Marathons=
Rock N Roll Seattle HERE- With my good buddies Amanda and Jess
See Jane Seattle HERE- With Tall Sister and Chelsea on their first Half
You Go Girl HERE- With Kim for 80% of the race :)

2- 10K=
Alki HERE- Muscle Man and Tall Sister's first 10K's
Day of Hope HERE- Race in Maui, Hawaii

1- 8K=
Run Wild HERE- My first 8K distance, I will KILL it next year!

3- 5K's=
Black Diamond HERE- First Place Female in a hilly race!
Iron Girl HERE
Santa Runs HERE

And this is how it looked...

What a GREAT year!!!

What is up for 2012???

Coming SOON!!!

Blank Slate...

2012-01-01T12:22:00.001-08:00

2011 is in the books....I had an amazing Year and plan to recap it all soon...

A Year which included crossing the Finish Line of the Boston Marathon, helping my Big Sister run her first Half Marathon, and joining team nuun at Hood to Coast.. WOW!!! I feel blessed to have had such a great year..

BUT....

Now there is a Blank Slate for 2012

I plan to train for a 5K PR in March..

Training starts, well now I guess!!

I have to make my training plan ASAP

Possible Goals:

-Half Marathon PR

-Become a Half Fanatic

-Run my first Ultra

-Help Muscle Man run his first Half Marathon

-SOOOO many options.... hmmmmm....

Goals post to come... HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Who wants to be in the Tall Mom 1,000+++ Club this year??? Details this week :)

How will you fill your blank slate in 2012?

December Challenge Stats

2011-12-31T13:57:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of December, which means it is the last day of my CHALLENGE!! My Goal was to run a minimum of 1 mile per day, every day in December, and I am happy to report that I accomplished my GOAL!!!

With the help of DailyMile below are my stats, give or take a few laps around the track...

Total Miles= 100

**Special thanks to Mom vs. Marathon for the chilly 8 miler this morning and for the awesome coaching present!!!

Per run Distance breakdown:
1 milers= 5
2 milers=5
3-3.1 milers= 8
4 milers= 4
5-6 milers= 5
8 miler=1

Miles on the Treadmill= 19.1

Miles with Friends= 55.77

Best Run= Tour De Lights

Race= Santa Runs

Total time spent Running= 14.93 hours

Average pace= 8:57

Thanks to everyone who joined in!! This was not easy, but was a bit easier than I thought it would be. I kept the pressure low and ran for the love of running...

Thoughts:

This challenge was just what I needed to get back into the routine of Running. I had let the excuses NOT TO take over my life. This month I realized that I can fit in a mile or workout every day, all it takes is the energy to GO. To get up, get dressed and GO.. I LOVE my rest days and I am most likely going to end this STREAK very soon for that reason.

Today I celebrate a Small Goal that I did just for me, to re-light the SPARK that had gone out.... I still dont know what my Running Goals are for 2012, but this STREAK helped bring back the excitement of working toward and reaching my goals..

Did you meet the DECEMBER CHALLENGE? Share your stats and thoughts.

What are you excited about for 2012??

Merry Christmas

2011-12-26T08:29:00.000-08:00

Day #25 of the streak continued with a 1 miler around my neighborhood while wearing a light strand that blinked and sang... 3 notable things about this run.

1- It is NOT good to run after a FULL Turkey dinner and a couple adult beverages.

2- A person on their front lawn said "Merry Christmas" quickly followed by "Are you trying to run off your turkey?"

3- I had to hold the lights the entire run....how people run with costumes and things is beyond me..

Thanks to everyone who participated in my Giveaways lately....sorry I have been MIA, I am on break from my Big Girl job and do not want to be on the computer.

WINNER of the book Long May You Run is Run with Jess

WINNER of the 3 tubes of NUUN is Shelly HERE

**Email me your address ladies...so you can get your PRIZE!!

I will not be on the Blog much this week so please...

Like me on Facebook HERE

Friend me on DailyMile HERE

What kind of Christmas are you?

2011-12-22T07:46:00.001-08:00

Last night was the Tour De Lights in Bonney Lake put on by Fleet Feet Bonney Lake and Brooks. This is a fun and FREE event to support the local food bank. Tall Grandma watched the Little Studs so Muscle Man and I could be jogger free. Was great to see my friends Janna, Jessica and Cindy... and to run with Tall Sister, Zoe & Goober!!

It was COLD but the lights were sparkling and my Knuckle Lights HERE kept our path bright. It was a "Fun Run" so there was no worry about time or pace.. we just enjoyed the view, laughed and got a little exercise. Of course we represented Team Sparkle in our Sparkle Skirts... The lights did not disappoint and Tall Sister met her goal of running the whole time.. SCORE!!

We did not take too many photos but miss Zoe snapped this one for us.
FYI there is a Knuckle light in my belly pocket, hence the Santa looking belly. Fun Annual event. Next year I plan to run the loops a couple times, 2.6ish miles gets over way to fast then we stand in the COLD waiting for the Raffle, may as well be enjoying the view...

So the CHALLENGE continues 21 days strong!!! I have not been putting up major mileage, but I am proud to have run every day this month.. I truly encourage anyone who is struggling to get back to a routine to go for a CHALLENGE.. 1 mile per day, it is amazing what it can do..

I thought it would be fun for some interaction so I put together a little survey.. Should take you no more than 3 minutes to answer...

WHAT KIND OF CHRISTMAS ARE YOU?

1. Who is your Favorite Fictional holiday character?

A- Santa
B- Rudolf
C- Frosty

2. How is your house decorated?

A- Brightest on the Block
B- A few lights to sparkle the night
C- Too busy to decorate

3. What is on the table?

A- Ham
B- Turkey
C- Fill in the Blank

4. On the top of your tree is..

A- Angel
B- Star
C- Fill in the Blank

5. Under the tree is..

A- Piles and piles of gifts for miles.
B- A few special and thoughtful gifts.
C- Fill in the Blank

6. For Christmas I like to..

A- Be surprised
B- Pick out my gifts, so I know what I am getting
C- Fill in the Blank

7. This year I asked for...

A- Running Stuff
B- Gift Cards
C- Fill in the Blank

8. I am dreaming of a _____ Christmas

A- White
B- Sunny
C- Fill in the Blank

9. I celebrate on..

A- Christmas Eve
B- Christmas
C- Fill in the Blank

10. This year I will travel by ___ for the holidays.

A- Plane
B-Car
C- Train
D- No travel for me...

If you humor me with this little quiz you will be entered to win 3 tubes of NUUN... so JOIN in..

Santa Runs Tacoma 5K 2011 Race Recap

2011-12-19T07:53:00.000-08:00

This was my second year Running Santa Runs Tacoma 5K and I LOVE LOVE LOVE this race!! Only takes 20 minutes to get to the race, I get to dress up, the people around me are all in fun costumes, time with my friends, and post race grub.. PERFECT!!

Kim HERE and I were to the parking lot EARLY, sorry KIM!! But we scored great parking, got our packets easily and headed back to the car to chat and stay warm. Our buddies slowly showed up with Alma HERE first, she sat in the car too until we opted to head out to the COLD.. I had a toss-away and layers so I was pretty warm..

Then all the ladies came (in alpha order): Kadie, Karla, Kerrie, Tiffany, and Zoe

The girls went to Kim's car to stash their bags so I hung with Tiff.. Just then a Race photog came... Had to take advantage of the professional photos... So glad I did!! Onetherunevents does a great job with their photos..
Had to get my shirt in there... The girls came back so we posed for a few pictures in our Team Sparkle skirts. Honey Buckets in the background. The photographer came back and asked us if we would like to film a message for the troops.. OF COURSE!! Kerrie had the idea to sing "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" and Alma added that we should say "Thank You" at the end.. PERFECT!! I am excited to see the video..
We wandered around looking for the costume contest... which, as I thought, was at the start line area..
Zoe had her camera out, generally I don't love Candids but this one is pretty cute.. Thanks Zoe!
We did a little conga line in front of the judge but they were not impressed, we plan to have better costumes next year!! The good thing was we were positioned in front for the race.. Zoe was freezing so I shared my XXL toss away, Kadie's daughter zipped us up..
Siamese Sparkle Twins.. HEHE.. As we stood and waited to start Amy N HERE introduced herself.. She looked FAST so I asked her if she was going to win, she said No.. (Note she got a 20:03 and 3rd for 25-29, FAST) It was so loud I didn't realize that the National Anthem was being played.. and before we knew it we were off..

Next up the RACE..

The race starts uphill, I felt AWESOME, yawning at the start line which is a good sign for me. Kim was on my left and we CRUISED the first mile at 7:17. My plan was to go about 7:23 for a sub 23:00 Finish, which would get my a course PR and Kim her PR. I knew we did the first mile a bit fast but the end of the course has a hill and we needed those seconds. I could not believe how fast the race was zooming by..

As we approached the half-way point there was a Snowman at the turn, so cute! I love this part of the race because we got to see our buddies on the way back. I could feel Kim slipping back, but I kept pace hoping she would get her second wind. Waves at my girls who all looked strong.

Mile 2 was 7:37 which included me running backward and sideways, not sure if it was the best thing to do for Kim but I hoped that she would focus on me and not the PAIN. She was giving it everything she had. I kept the pace as she slid further and further behind, I felt bad, I didn't know what to do..

Alma passed me and I had a choice.. Speed up and Finish Sub 23 or TRY one more time to help Kim. I STOPPED...yes I stopped in a 5K when I felt great... I had visions of crossing the Finish with my buddy. When I saw her it was clear that she did not feel well :( We could still make it if we could get back to the pace... I had no tricks, no clue what to do... so I went on.. I had so much left in the tank..

Up the Hill FAST past a few men and ZOOMED down..

STATS:
23:48
7:41 pace
17th Woman

Last year I finished in 23:06 without racing and I placed.. so it was possible I could be in the running.. Kim was clearly disappointed when she crossed the line :( Everyone came zooming across and we went to cheer for others. We went inside and got some Clam Chowder, YUMMERS and Chocolate milk, SO GOOD!! Then to the results computers...

DUN DUN DUN

Kim had placed 1st in her Age Group!!

And I took 3rd!! Along with Alma and her Aunt!!

Looking at the stats had I really raced I may have been able to move up 1 slot, but the winner of the 30-34 got a 19:56 which is 6:26 pace.. The overall female winner got an 18:26 for 5:57 pace... FAST FAST ladies!! We played around the dock..
Did a little can can and put on our warm clothes.. last year they announced the winners, this year we just grabbed the ribbons :(
Most of the group had to leave but since I had a sick family at home I opted to stay for some post race food.. With Alma and her Aunt Cindy and our 3rd place ribbons in 3 different Age Groups :)
The food was pretty good, and we didn't have to move our cars...
The sun came out so we took one last photo.. Such a FUN DAY!!

This race made me realize that I want to RACE again I want to train and push myself.. but not in a Marathon.. March 17th the St. Paddy's day race is on this same course... 3 months to get some SPEED and see what I can do.. Wish me luck!!

OUTFIT DETAILS:

Shoes/Jacket- Brooks Green Silence
Socks- Target
Tights- Sugoi
Skirt- Team Sparkle
Long Sleeve shirt- Run Pretty Far
Hat- Etsy friend from high school Christina

Santa Runs Tacoma 5K Outfit

2011-12-16T07:53:00.000-08:00

I like to dress up for fun running events...BUT when I am racing I also need to keep in mid comfort and nothing too crazy that will throw me off stride. Tomorrow I plan to play paces for the AMAZING Kim HERE...last time I attempted to pace her I kept the pace but left her behind :( Sorry Kim.. This time the plan is to push through the PAIN together and get her a coveted 5K PR. Lordy I hope my legs show up on Day #17...

My buddies are posting their outfits...

Kerrie HERE
Kim HERE
Anyone else???
I know Alma, Karla, Stacie, Jill and more are running....

So I thought I would join in the fun. I ordered a hat from a high school friend who knits, and plan to wear my Run Pretty Far shirt as a base layer... I had an old dryfit white shirt I wanted to re purpose.. I went to WalMart in search of puffy paint and ribbons, nothing good.. BUMMER!! Got home and realized my glue gun went MIA.. UGH!! I am not very artistic at all...but I have paint and paint brushes...so I got to work..

Front of my shirt...had to include Tall Mom in there.. The paint skills are rather Kindergarten but hey I will be running FAST..
Team Sparkle Skirt, Green Silence Shoes and socks from Target thanks to Zoe.. I had an idea...so I went with it..
This shirt may make people want to pass me more, we'll see. I just want to make people laugh.. Handwriting aside I think that I did OK considering I didn't spend a dime on my shirt..

Wish us luck!!
Are you racing this weekend?

A little Perspective

2011-12-15T07:51:00.000-08:00

PERSPECTIVE is defined as:

The state of one's ideas, the facts known to one, etc., in having a meaningful interrelationship.

When I was younger I had thoughts, ideas, ways of seeing the world.

Today I am a very different person.

Each day I find that my perspective changes just a bit....

I read a face book post where someone said they were "Having the worst day of their life!" WOW!! Thinking back to the worst day of my life, when my Dad died and the days that followed, I cant imagine what happened to this poor person.. but really it is all about perspective..

If you have never had something truly bad happen to you, you come from a different perspective. The "Worst Day" could be getting in a car accident, having a bad haircut or getting fired... Then there are the EXTREMES people have gone through, like natural disasters, being diagnosed with cancer or worse... Who knows?? Your vision and how you think are shaped by the experiences YOU have had in YOUR life.... YOU, along with your thoughts are constantly changing..... new filters, filters being knocked down, with each step your mind is working overtime..

How does this relate to running???

When I first started running I was out of shape. My first 5K was a HUGE venture. Running the full 5K without stopping was a major source of pride...

While training for Marathons I felt like it was not worth lacing up my shoes unless I was going to run a minimum of 3 miles.

Funny how the same distance can be a MOUNTAIN for one person and a pebble for another... and in the examples above both of those people are/were ME.

Yesterday I was SLEEPY in the morning so I didn't run, busy mid day and had an event for my Big Girl job after work... I wanted my CHALLENGE to continue, to run every day in December.. I knew that I would be able to fit it in. The instant I came in the door I kissed Muscle Man, went up the stairs, got changed and started the treadmill.

1 MILE

Just run 1 MILE

This 1 MILE represented me keeping my end of the bargain.

Of reaching for a new goal.

14 days in a row....continued with 1 MILE

8 minutes and 10 seconds later I was done...

There was a time, not so long ago, when I would have run 1 MILE and been disappointed in myself. Yesterday I found a new PERSPECTIVE. It is not about the number of miles I run, the fact that I ran is enough!!! I celebrated that 1 mile :)

Quotes about Perspective:

If you do not raise your eyes
you will think that you are the highest point.
~Antonio Porchia

People who look through keyholes
are apt to get the idea that
most things are keyhole shaped.
~Author Unknown

To really enjoy the better things in life,
one must first have experienced
the things they are better than.
~Oscar Holmolka

The grass may be greener on the other side of the fence,
but you still have to mow it.
~Author Unknown

Is the glass half empty,
half full,
or twice as large as it needs to be?
~Author Unknown

If the only tool you have is a hammer,
you tend to see every problem as a nail.
~Abraham Maslow

A man should never be ashamed to own
he has been in the wrong, which is but saying...
that he is wiser today than he was yesterday.
~Alexander Pope

My play was a complete success.
The audience was a failure.
~Ashleigh Brilliant

Expectant of greater things,
We try climbing -
Higher
And Higher;
An effort that costs us much,
Leaving us short of breath
To find only
The ground below is much prettier.
~Phillip Pulfrey

Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect.
It means that you've decided to look beyond the imperfections.

and the one that drives my point home...

We don't see things as they are,
we see them as we are.
Anaïs Nin

How has your perspective changed in life and/or running?
I am going to extend the Book Giveaway HERE, so go enter!!!

Brooks PureCadence and 1 Mile for Little Stud

2011-12-13T07:50:00.000-08:00

Since the Brooks PureProject shoes came out I have been DROOLING!! I went to the local Fleet Feet and took the PureCadence for a test run and fell in love.. It was not time for new shoes so I WAITED... I have been visiting them online HERE. When I got home there was a box waiting for me... HMMMMM?? I don't remember ordering anything?? The perks of being a Blogger, at times I get unexpected surprises from my favorite brands. The reveal went like this...
OOOHHH!
AAAHHH!
OOOOOOO!
The packing is so fun totally made me feel like I was on an adventure!!
And look at these pretty new toys!!! I could not wait to put them on.. TWO THUMBS WAY UP!!
It is no secret I am a devoted Brooks Shoes FREAK.. I generally wear size 10 1/2 in Brooks so I was a bit sad when this limited release pair came in a size 10.. But maybe they knew something I didn't about the sizing?? So I got ready..
I feel bad that the maiden voyage was on the treadmill...but hey it will keep them clean..
They go well with my Razzy Roo Bad A$$ Socks HERE.
I took them for a 2 mile test run... I will have a FULL REVIEW soon, after the first wear I was super pleased.. but generally I like to put in at least 20+ miles before I cast my verdict. Want to learn more about the PureCadence??

Brooks Says (HERE):

Lean construction fuses with a responsive fit in the PureCadence. For Guidance to Support runners, this shoe delivers more support through smart, streamlined features such as a wider Nav Band that’s locked in to the medial strike pod. A reinforced heel counter secures the foot and the internal PDRB helps prevent overpronation. The PureCadence gives runners who need more stability the chance to experience the feel of a natural foot strike with a lightweight, breathable shoe.

Just like our core line, we hold PureProject to the industry’s highest weartest and durability standards. Because of their lightweight construction and fewer materials, runners should generally expect shoes from the PureProject line to last approximately 250-300 miles.

1 Mile for LS #1

As I was approaching the end of my Run Little Stud #1 kept asking when I was going to be done.. I answered, he asked AGAIN, I answered AGAIN, he asked AGAIN.. I SNAPPED!!! "Stop asking me, you are going to make me fall off the treadmill!!!" Not one of my finer moments in parenting.. So after my run I apologized and told him that the treadmill was all his..
Strong and ready to jog/walk barefoot...
He set out without a real goal and was plugging along, hit .25 at about 15 minute mile pace.. He usually makes it about 1/4 mile before getting bored and stopping.. This time he kept on. I explained that he could make it a mile if he kept going..
He took the CHALLENGE but then got a side stitch so he slowed the pace. He thought that he would get to a mile at 15 minutes so he used the Treadmill display to do Math.
15-3= 12
15-4=11
15-5= 10
15-6=9
15-7= That's a hard one... Oh 8
and on and on.....
He is pretty darn good at Math for a Kindergartner!!
When he got to 15 minutes he was at .86 and I told him that he could still make a mile if he ran for a little bit longer. He was DETERMINED and kept with his Math-running. I told him it was less than a lap around the track.. CLOMP CLOMP CLOMP...
DONE!!! 1 Mile on the Treadmill for Little Stud #1. I know he could have gone faster, but with all the Math he had to slow it a little :)

I look forward to the day when he WILL run a race with me.. For now I am CHERISHING that he is still little... and I will avoid SNAPPING at him next time he wants to run.. Bad Tall Mom!!!

**I was sent the PureCadence Shoes free of charge however I was not compensated for my review, the views expressed are my own.

License to Run

2011-12-12T07:47:00.000-08:00

I am in traffic WAY MORE THAN I SHOULD BE.... A highlight to the monotony is when I see unique license plates, and bumper stickers. And I am JAZZED when I see the car of another runner...you know the 13.1, 26.2 or various Runner themed decals, magnets, etc... Well my (tacky) homage to Running is below.. There are stickers on the sides of the car as well :)

Yes I am a Runner and you can tell from my Vehicle. If you like me on Facebook HERE then you have already seen these photos.. But there is a story.

I have wanted Gonzaga license plates since the day they came out, years ago.. I loved my time at Gonzaga... I kept hinting to Muscle Man but the cost seemed a little excessive. Bless him he took the hint and ordered me special Gonzaga plates... for my birthday back in JUNE!! Way to go DMV.. They finally came!!
I am in LOVE with these beauties. If you see my vehicle on the road or at a race please say Hello :) Leave kinds notes, no egging please... No hiding now, not that I could with all the Nuun and Runnerd Decals....

I am happy to report that the STREAK continues.. Days 10 and 11 were 3 milers completed in my neighborhood, nothing too exciting to report.. Today I am feeling a little sore and under the weather, so I may just do the minimum 1 miler tonight.. We'll see..

The nice part about the streak is that 1 mile does not feel like pressure to me. I know that I can jog that mile and feel a sense of accomplishment. WIN WIN!! December is busy, and I am PROUD to fit in Running every day to keep me on track and get back into a routine which I was letting slip away...

Do you have anything on your vehicle that shows your Runner(d) Pride?
Don't forget to enter my GIVEAWAY HERE for an Autographed Copy of "Long May You Run"

I almost didnt run.. almost

2011-12-09T21:36:00.001-08:00

Then Muscle Man said he was going upstairs to workout his arms.... So I peeled my overly SLEEPY self off the couch and got on the Treadmill. There is something about knowing I only have to do 1 mile to keep my streak going that makes me feel GREAT..

I started the first .75 barefoot...my toes started to burn so I put on shoes, sped up and finished my run.. Day #9 and going STRONG..

I could have used many excuses not to run and I ALMOST skipped it.

But I ran... 2 miles....

And I am glad I did...

Have an amazing weekend my friends.

Race weekend next weekend!! YIPPEE!!

Where do you find IT?

2011-12-08T07:49:00.000-08:00

Day #7- 5.1 miles with Kerrie, Zoe & Goober..

Since I started Running nearly 4 years ago I have never run 7 days in a row. I love my rest days. I am in new territory here and it is EXCITING..

You see I had lost "IT" in my Running Life.

What is IT?

Hard to explain..

IT is the passion

IT is the want to lace up my shoes and go.

IT is believing in my power to venture into new territory.

IT is thinking about running with a smile.

IT is the spark.

IT is Running just because I want to run.

When did I lose IT?

I lost it in May 2010 at the Eugene Marathon. I was totally focused and worked hard for 16 weeks to get the Eugene, I crossed the Finish line and had Qualified for Boston... then I lost IT. I kept signing up for races hoping to find IT again. I planned most of my long runs with friends because their energy gave me the drive I needed. I had glimmers, but IT was missing..

I didn't want to run Boston because I didn't feel like someone who deserved to run Boston since my spark had gone out. Then my Dad died....IT was crushed beyond repair for a long time. The day that registration opened for Boston I was with my family making funeral arrangements and missed the cutoff. As you know it turned out and although Boston did not go as planned I would not change a thing.

This year I have been waffling through my running, attaching myself to people and helping them reach their Goals, finding IT through others. I have had a blast, don't get me wrong, but I knew I needed to reconnect with my running.

WHERE DID I FIND IT?
Day #7 of my streak....
Running with these amazing ladies.
I want to make plans and flex my running muscle.
I want to be silly and run in the rain, dark, cold, for hours to earn the post run cup of coffee and steak fries. This CHALLENGE I have laid out for myself in December has been my path back to IT and I am jazzed!!!!

Where do you find IT?
Have you lost IT? If so, what action can you take to find IT again?

Treadmill Tips and a GIVEAWAY

2011-12-07T07:53:00.000-08:00

It is no secret that I am NOT a Treadmill fan. I prefer to run outside whenever possible. BUT Muscle Man and I purchased a Treadmill (aka dreamill) last year and it has been a nice tool to have. It has taken me a bit of time to find ways to make my Treadmill runs more comfortable, or at minimum tolerable. I will never be EMZ and run 100 miles on the Hamsterwheel, but I have a few tips to get through a run at home, I don't run at the gym but I am sure most of these tips could carey over.

TIPS for TREADMILL RUNNING at HOME:

1- Get everything ready before you turn on the treadmill.

Position the treadmill for the most comfort, this only works if you have an area where it can be moved. We have a large loft so I have Muscle Man move the TM closer to the TV.
If you have a show to watch turn on the TV and turn up the volume, have the remote in close range so you can fast forward the commercials if you have DVR.
Open a window nearby or grab a fan, keeping cool while running inside is not easy.

2- USE your Towel!! I use my Inperspire HERE towel for a few things. First, to cover the screen, I will stare at the minutes ticking away if the screen is not covered. Second, to blot away the sweat, I am dripping by the end of the run. And lastly, for the motivation, "Stronger, Faster, Better."
3- Have your hydration ready. I will go through an entire bottle of water on a short treadmill run. OUr treadmill has a cup holder, my Nuun HERE bottle fits perfectly. FYI you can still get Free shipping at Nuun from now until 12/9.

4- Wear the right shoes. I am a heavy girl, the treadmill emphasizes every footfall. If I wear my road shoes I am clomp, clomp, clomping the whole time. My go-to shoes for the Treadmill are my Brooks Green Silence HERE. They are light weight, breathable and most importantly as the name says SILENT.
5- Wear the right gear. At home I will keep it simple with a pair of midlength spandex shorts and a compression tank top. No extra layers to make me heat up. Target has some great gear for a low cost.

6- Hit STOP when you need to. If you read my DailyMile post from the other night I was parenting from the Treadmill. The Little Studs were in the bath nearby so I hopped off to get LS#2 dressed and to wash LS#1's hair. It is OK to hit STOP and take care of things, just remember to get back on. (Are we friends on DailyMile?? If not come friend me HERE)

7- Play with the speed and incline. There are some fancy programs on treadmills, I need to read the manual to learn all about what the machine can do. What I do know is that I can play with the speed and incline throughout my workout. Slower with more incline. Warm-up then do intervals. Shorts bursts of speed. A steady training run at goal pace. The options are up to you. I like to do most of my speedwork on the roads, but the Treadmill is a GREAT tool when you want to test your limits.

8- Imagine you are somewhere else. Running on the treadmill is really mental for me. I know how easy it would be to stop, give up, quit....but I also know how good it feels to push through. Watching a TV show or movie helps me to go somewhere else.

9- Have a Goal before the run and stick to it. Whether it is to run for "X" amount of minutes or at "X" pace, fight through and meet that goal.

10- Just do it!!! Dust off your treadmill and RUN.. This time of year it gets dark early, it is cold and wet, in most places.. Get your run done!!

Like these tips?? I know where you can find a book with tips like these and much much more. Including quotes and advise from professional runners.

Long May You Run goes beyond the basics of running, training, and racing. It is a collection of essays, stories, statistics, humor, resolutions, achievable goals, and advice on nearly 200 separate topics to help you fill the gaps in your running life. In addition, you will be inspired and challenged by the recommendations and running tips contributed exclusively to the book by these Olympians and running authors.

****Thanks to the awesome author Chris Cooper you have a chance to WIN!!

WHAT WILL YOU WIN?

1- Autographed copy of "Long May You Run"

HOW DO YOU ENTER?

1- Like Chris on his Facebook page HERE, optional- leave a comment for Chris while you are there, ask him a running question, etc.. up to you. Leave a comment here to get an entry.

2- Read his Blog HERE, come back and leave me a comment about something you read.

3- Answer the question- What would you like to read about in a Running Book? Leave a Comment.

4- Like Tall Mom on Facebook HERE. Leave me a Comment to let me know..

Simple as that!!!

EDITED- Winner will be announced on 12/21

On the Run during the Holidays

2011-12-05T07:45:00.000-08:00

So far on my December CHALLENGE I am 4 for 4!!!

Day #2- 3 miles solo run on my lunch break, I want to get in shape to pace Kim so I took this run as speed training. 3 miles in just under 24 minutes was TOUGH!! Felt good to get my heart rate up!

Saturday and it was time to go to the Tree farm for our annual family adventure. We live just 15 minutes from multiple Tree farms, we go to the one with the train that carries us out to look then picks us and the tree up.
Don't let this picture fool you, Muscle Man does the dirty work :)
On the train, LS#1 wanted to sit near the conductor.
LS#2 making the cutest little face, barely looks like him..
LS#1 is just like me, he LOVES to pose for pictures, in this photo he is pretending to be the CRAZY tree.. Love him..

After the adventure at the tree farm I had to hurry to get ready to attend the funeral of a family friend...not a fun mid-day activity... the daylight hours ticked away and I thought I was destined for a treadmill run.

Day #3- 2.1 miles we opted to get bundled up and tour the lights in our neighborhood. It is nice to know that once I hit 1 mile I have met my challenge for the day.. This is how we looked..
Love my Sugoi vest, easy to spot in the dark. Funny how I posed in front of 2 different colored walls.
Muscle Man sporting Gonzaga and Fleet Feet, he did the HEAVY pushing up some killer hills.
Yes LS#1 has on a Spider Man bank robber style mask.. it is just too darn cute, keeps his little face warm..
Itchy nose little guy ready to go!! He loved looking at the lights. They were starting to get a little chilly so I dropped them off at the door then ran to get the mail.. Family time and errands, score!!

Sundays can be pretty busy, I was planning to meet Kerrie and Zoe but I also wanted to SLEEP!! So I bailed out and relaxed in the morning with the family. This included decorating the tree and our house. It takes a long time but is so fun once it is done!! Mid day I went to visit a good friend who just had a baby, so fun to snuggle with her little guy.. he is too cute!!
Once home it was dark and the kids needed baths.

Day #4- 3 miles, put the kids in the bath, pulled out the treadmill, and watched House in DVR. I had to get off for a minute to wash hair, fell off the treadmill pointing out LS#1's socks and finished with 2 boys begging to run on the treadmill. Yes I was parenting from the Treadmill and I got in my run!!

****Looking forward to Day #5 for a 3-5 mile lunch run today...it is chilly here..

How are you doing with the Challenge?? FYI did I tell you that walking miles count too??
What family traditions are you looking forward to this time of year?

HABIT

2011-12-02T07:37:00.000-08:00

DAY#1- CHALLENGE
December 1st
5.5 Miles
With Kerrie at lunch time on a cold day. My energy level was high and muscles felt great.

I met Kerrie @ Mom vs. Marathon for a chilly run near our offices. The birds were out in full force, Ducks spooked us, a large Hawk impressed us and the Blue Heron made us smile. I felt AMAZING!! Muscles were working, no pain and my head cold is nearly gone. Miles pass so quickly with Kerrie and we have no shortage of conversation, it is nice having a running buddy who works just 1.3 miles down the road :) Run #1 was a SUCCESS 30 more to go..

Running minimum of 1 mile per day this month made me think about HABITS.

hab·it/ˈhabit/

Noun:

A settled or regular tendency or practice, esp. one that is hard to give up.

What is the saying? It takes 21 days to make a habit, good or bad :) I know there is more research on this, from personal experience I think it takes a couple months for something to be habit for me. Habit, routine, whatever you want to call it, your health should be something that you think about every day.

Developing healthy habits is important to your overall life and happiness. Whether it is taking the stairs to your meeting on the 3rd floor, skipping the whip cream on your mocha, or walking to the mail box instead of driving, you can make small changes in your life creating healthy habits.

For a good amount of time running and healthy eating became Habits for me, it was what I did without even thinking. Unfortunately it is much harder to maintain healthy habits and soon BAD Habits crept in. I started staying up later, sneaking fatty snacks between meals and finding excuses to skip my daily run because "I don't have a race to train for." An injury here, a sickness there, work trip, life events, etc...all combined to create a new person, someone that I don't want to be!!The trouble with BAD Habits are they just feel so darn good... It is so nice to be LAZY, watch TV and eat mindlessly. It is so nice to shop at lunch and grab Starbucks on the way back to the office. It is so nice to sleep in on the weekends... These actions on occasion are necessary and good, but soon for me these actions became normal or habit....and I have felt GUILTY writing a Running Blog with very little running and BAD habits lingering and becoming my way of life..
One step at a time. The first step for me is admitting that my current Habits are not healthy for ME. The next step was deciding what actions I need to take to create better Habits.

**Things I want to be my HABITS:

-Focus on my Family first

-Exercise 3-5 days a week

-Reduce unhealthy snacking

-Read for pleasure and to increase knowledge

I will take action to make those Habits a reality, easier said than done. Will I ever be able to get rid of all my BAD Habits?? No way!! But I can chose to be mindful of those negative aspects of myself and work toward ways to spin toward more positive paths. My very favorite quote about Habits comes from Aristotle..

Below are a few more quotes about HABITS:

Bad habits are easier to abandon today than tomorrow.
~Yiddish Proverb

The unfortunate thing about this world
is that good habits are so much easier
to give up than bad ones.
~Somerset Maugham

The hard must become habit.
The habit must become easy.
The easy must become beautiful.
~Doug Henning

HAPPY FRIDAY!!

Good luck to all my buddies Running Rock N Roll Vegas

Jess
Tiffany
Tricia
Aron
Anyone else??

Tall Mom Run December CHALLENGE

2011-12-01T07:24:00.000-08:00

The WINNER of the Gone for a Run MedalART Giveaway is:

Heather @ Pokey Slow Runner

**She wants the "Pride is Forever" display. Heather please email me to claim your Prize.

Thanks to Gone for a Run for Hosting!! Keep Gone For a Run on your mind for Christmas Shopping!!!

It is DECEMBER!!!

WOW oh WOW!!

I plan to run today with the Awesome Kerrie @ Mom vs. Marathon today.. I have really diverted off of my usual workout schedule and I want to get back to it.. Staying motivated the last month of the year when the temps start to drop and we have busy schedules is HARD... I was excited to find some motivation through Run With Jess HERE and her 12 Days of a FIT Christmas. The premise? Workout, post a comment that you worked out and you will be entered to win PRIZES for 12 days!! I love the idea and will be participating for sure. GREAT idea Jess!!

December has 31 days

Is it possible for me to run a minimum of 1 mile every day??

Hmmmmm...

It is no streak like Shelly HERE who is on day 571 of her EPIC Running Streak..

Could I (we) do it??

I have already hit my 1,000+++ miles for the year. I have been aching for a CHALLENGE.. I would get credit for the first 12 days on Jess's challeng e.. And I want to motivate the Tall Mom 1,000++ participates to PUSH this month..

HMMMMMM!!!

Let's go for it..

Rules are SIMPLE..

Run a minimum of 1 Mile every day in December

That is 31 miles+++

***Who is in??

Join on DailyMile HERE

Leave a comment to let me know you are IN!!
PS- Those who complete the CHALLENGE will have a chance to WIN.. Details soon..

Weight Loss Roller Coaster

2011-11-30T07:47:00.000-08:00

Welcome new Bloggy Pack members!! I apologize for the extreme lack of Running content, with weird injuries, a work trip and being sick I have not laced up my Brooks that often. I plan to get back on track I have a 5K in less than a month and a new GOAL with my friend Kim HERE. Lately I have been thinking a lot about weight.. Not when it comes to others as much as my own roller coaster with the scale.

At 6'0 tall I can carry 215 pounds easily and I did for most of my adult life, I tipped the scales above 265 at the peak of my pregnancy with LS#1. I know what I need to do to shed the EXTRA weight and I was laser focused after Little Stud #2 was born. I was over feeling tired, of seeing the extra flap of skin flop over my jeans...muffin top is not sexy!!
I wrote down everything I ate, I worked out all the time and I had a GOAL, I wanted to get to 184 pounds.... Thankfully I was training for my first Half and Full Marathon and the pounds started to drop quickly... I hit a slow patch around 195, seemed like my body loved that weight and was determined to stay there. I was about to give up then took a look at my diet and cut out a few needless calories and a few months later I had reached my Personal Goal Weight...
Me in 2009 at 184... Why is 184 my PGW (Personal Goal Weight)? Because according to the (rather stupid) BMI scales I am at the very top of the "normal" range at 184 pounds. I don't believe in BMI scales since I am a muscular, but I would like to be in a healthy range and for me 184 is the number... also happens that is the weight I feel strong, confident and FIT!! SIDEBAR= If I weighed 136 I would be far from "normal" try anorexic...

I loved reaching my PGW and was proud that I was able to stay there for over a year. I felt like a machine, muscle pumping and lower body fat than I had ever had in my life. I could fit into some size 10 clothes, a smaller size than I wore in High School!! And I loved the positive attention from family, friends and co-workers. It took a lot of focus and dedication to stay there. I didn't eat fast food and would only "cheat" on rare occasions. Eventually for various reasons I lost my way....

So where am I now??

195-199 depending on the day... FIRMLY OVERWEIGHT according to BMI scales.

I know what I need to do.

I know that I could get there again.

I know that my knees would feel better.

I know that my clothes would fit great.

BUT....

Am I ready to get back on the diet train?

Right now I am living my life. Eating Chocolate, drinking an adult beverage and not stressing about calories.

Do I like how I feel with the extra 10-15??

NO!!!

But do I love enjoying my food without counting calories?

YES!!

Weight Loss
Weight Gain
Up
Down
Up
Down
Up
Down

I wish I was that person who can eat whatever, whenever and not worry... but I am not that person. I STRUGGLE with weight. I am not 215 pounds, thankfully I am able to stay in Onederland, but I am heavier than my PGW.

Why am I telling you this?

Because I am sure that there are many people like me who are 10-15 pounds heavier than they want to be. We don't get to be on TV or have articles written about us. We are the Norm. Some days I think I am OK with it. Other days I am pissed that I let the weight creep back on. The emotions are

Up
Down
Up
Down
Up
Down

December starts tomorrow. A new month which ends with a new year. Could be my year to return to my PGW or to finally accept that my body likes to be 195. Time will tell. The ups and downs go on and I know I am not on this Roller Coaster alone...

Don't forget to enter my Gone for a Run MedalART Giveaway HERE
Are you at your Personal Goal Weight? How did you get there and how do you stay there?
What are your thoughts about the Roller Coaster of weight loss?
Do you have plans to shed the pounds in 2012?

Post 899

2011-11-28T16:14:00.001-08:00

This is my 899th post. WOW when did that happen??

I have not done much Running lately. I ran a few miles on Thanksgiving and met Kerrie and Karla the day after for a nice run....I was hoping I could sweat the cold, congestion and sore throat out of my system....but alas I think I did too much too soon :(

I am home SICK today, this gunk has drained me for nearly 2 weeks. I went to the Dr. today and it is nothing serious, but I have major sinus congestion so I am hoping the Antibiotics will help me back to health and running...

Good part about being home on Cyber Monday??

SHOPPING!!!

-I registered for my next Race Santa Runs Tacoma

-I bought a Red Team-Sparkle Skirt to wear in the race and got a 2nd Gunmetal colored Skirt Half off. Like them on Facebook HERE so you can see the Deal too.

-I researched a replacement Garmin and new Cell phone

-I found a few fun Knight costumes for the Little Studs

-I bought a CUTE and Funny T-shirt

-And the day is not over YET...

Did you participate in Small Business Saturday or Cyber Monday? I linked in several of my FAVORITE Small Businesses on Facebook on Saturday. Check out my Facebook Wall HERE for Links. Coming up this week will be my Annual Christmas list!!

Don't Forget to Enter my Giveaway HERE.

How was your Holiday Weekend?

What was the best DEAL you scored this weekend??

Gone For a Run MedalART Wall Display Giveaway

2011-11-26T09:30:00.000-08:00

It is no Secret that I am a Gone For a Run HERE FAN!!! This is the meca of Running Gifts for anyone who loves Running and more... I was blessed to meet Ryan at the Boston Marathon expo last year, he is part of the family that makes up Gone For a Run. If you have never visited their website now is the perfect time...give your family and friends a link to those must-have items for Christmas..
Recently I was sent the MedalART Wall Display to review. Muscle Man hung it easily and my race medals now have a prominent place in our loft. I could not capture a great picture on my medals, below is the photo from their website. The display is sturdy and funtional, the optional bottom screw makes it so you can easily add a medal whever you want. I love the words "Gone For a Run" it is the perfect fit for how I earned my medals. The Folks at Gone for a Run wanted to put some cheer into your thanksgiving Weekend With a Giveaway!!

WHAT WILL YOU WIN?

1- MedalArt Display of your choice ($47.99 or less)

HOW DO YOU ENTER?
One Comment per Entry pretty please.

REQUIRED- Like Gone For a Run on Facebook HERE. You will be glad you did because Gone For a Run will be annoucing special DEALS to Facebook Followers. Leave a Comment.

1- Go to Gone For a Run MedalART page HERE and Leave a Comment with which display you will chose if/when you WIN!! For fun tell me how many medals you have to hang :)

2- While you are at Gone for a Run HERE shop around. Leave a Comment with the item or items you would love to receive for Christmas.

3- Share this Giveaway via Blog, Facebook, Twitter, etc... Leave a Comment each time you share.

PS. Everyone who posted a Comment on this post HERE receives an automatic Entry into this Giveaway.

****Giveaway ends and the Winner will be announced on December 1st

21 Random Fact About Tall Mom

2011-11-23T11:35:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by T at Racing with Babes to share 21 random facts about myself and then to tag 10 people to do the same. I love posting in lists so I was excited to be tagged... I am sure my longtime readers will know some of these facts, I will TRY to come up with a few new ones..
21 Random Facts about Tall Mom

My whole family is TALL Grandpa was 6'6, Dad was 6'5, Mom is 6'0 and to add GIANT my "little" brother is 6'9.
I have ALWAYS loved being Tall, I can reach things off high shelves, find people in a crowd, and carry extra ice cream weight..hehehe
Photography is a passion of mine, I spent hours in the dark room in college. I miss print photography but I love that through digital photography one can capture EVERYTHING. I once thought I would levy my talent into a career.
My body has CHANGED since having 2 kids- I now have allergies, motion sickness and stomach troubles.
The Summer after my Freshman year in college I ran a 5K for FUN, I chased the athletic director and got a crazy time of 19:30 or something like that and won a $25 gift certificate to a tanning salon... I SOOOO wish that I could run that fast now.
I WILL run the New York City Marathon someday, I have been once and loved it! I was there for work and stumbled upon a red carpet event at Trump Tower, I got to see Cuba Gooding Junior, some B list celebs and The Donald in real life.
I have always wanted to travel to Australia and Ireland, I know I will make it there someday.
2010 was the first time that I stamped my passport, previously Canada was the only foreign country I had visited. This year I went to France, Italy and Croatia, totally sparked an interest in Foreign travel for me.
I LOVE Canadians!! I would live in Canada if I could. My favorite Canadian has a new Blog address HERE.
Muscle Man and I met on Match.com and it was love at first site. He is my perfect match is so many ways. I LOVE being married!! We celebrated our 10 year Dateivesary on November 7th.
Our family birthdays were 5 days apart as far as the day of the month, 9th, 14th, 19th, I was hoping that LS#2 would be born on the 24th to keep the streak, he was born at 12:51AM on the 25th.. (Actually I was hoping he would be born on the 23rd 1-23)
I was LAUGHING for most of my labor with LS #2, after the Doctor broke my water I was a waterfall and all I could do was laugh.
I had epidurals for the births of both of our boys and I only breastfed until about 8 weeks when I returned to work...I believe that both are HOT TOPICS in the Mommy world. I have the utmost respect for woman who have natural childbirth and are able to maintain a breastfeeding schedule. It didn't work for me.
I have a Bachelors in Speech Communication and Masters in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University, I played basketball which covered all but 1 year of my tuition and expenses. I credit my parents for helping me to get the scholarship.
I don't know what I want to be when I grow up. I have dreams of writing books and being an inspirational speaker, but that would be hard to do with a young family. Having a home business with my husband would be the BEST! For now I feel blessed to be employed and able to support my family so that Muscle Man can be a stay-at-home Dad.
My first real job was as an Event Planner for the Girl Scouts, I planned the calendar of events for girls ages 11-17. That age girl really needs mentoring, I hope to volunteer with young women again someday.
I have anxiety, thankfully I am able to use that anxiety to work toward my goals and it does not cripple me. My close friends probably notice it more than most people as I am pretty good at faking it. I am my own worst critic. I have always had a way of over-analyzing the smallest detail.
I feel prettier when my nails are painted
I like to dress girly and cute when I Run/Race and don't care about whether people think I am a "real runner" or not. I will pose for the photogs and sport a skirt because it is FUN and it is ME.
Shopping makes me happy, I don't always buy things but I like being in the stores and looking. I used to have a major talent for scoring great deals on the Clearance racks but I don't shop enough now to keep up.
I wish that I had more time to dedicate to this Blog and especially my readers. My Blog brings me great joy every day and I can't remember my life without it.

I now have to TAG people... Hmmm lets go with the first 10 people who commented on my post yesterday and who have Blogs listed:

1. TX Runner Mom
2. Jamie- From Couch to Ironwoman
3. Marlene- Mission to (a)nother Marathon
4. Lesley- Racing It Off
5. Run with Jess
T @Racing with Babes-Oops she tagged me- Doesn't count :)
Alisen- No Blog??
6. Holly- I'd Rather Run Outside
7. Rena- Miles to go Before I Sleep
8. Mary- A Little of This and a Little of That
9. Kim- (Just) Trying is for Little Girls
10. Amy- Ready. Set. Run!

Thanks to everyone who left a Comment yesterday, we all have so much to be Thankful for. Look for a Giveaway or two to be THANKFUL for this Holiday Weekend!

A TALL dose of Thanks

2011-11-22T12:26:00.001-08:00

I have been feeling a little defeated lately, I was on business travel working 16-18 hour days making it difficult to fit in running, followed by cramping and swollen legs and today I caught the Little Stud's cold.. WTH!!

Just when I start to get down I realize that in the grand scheme of things Life is great.. So I am a little off my schedule, and feeling uneasy, I control my reactions to things. This time of year is WONDERFUL because people take the time to reflect on the people and things which they are most Thankful for...

Photo Credit HERE

This Year I am Thankful for....

My Husband and his continual support and love. My marriage brings me more happiness that I ever thought was possible.
Little Stud #1 and his excitement and joy for all things.
Little Stud #2 for keeping us on our toes and testing the limits with a dimpled smile.
Having Tall Grandma and Tall Sister close by so we can share family meals. Making it through our first year without Dad was not easy, but we did it together. Family support means the world to me.
Taking the time to Remember those I have lost and feeling their spirit still with me.
Running and this Blog for all the opportunities I have been given.
Nuun for making my Hood to Coast idea a reality.
All the WONDERFUL friends I have made through Blogging, many of whom I got to meet in real life at HTC, RNR Seattle, Boston and other FUN events this year!!
Close friends who let me vent and love me anyway- you know who YOU are...
My Big Girl job, the stability of income so Muscle Man can stay home and the travel opportunities I have had this year.
The Boston Marathon for teaching me that dreams do come true, but do not always play out as we had imagined.
My Local (and sorta local) Running pals Jess, Kerrie, Chelsea, Jill, Zoe, Tiffany, Kim, Stacie, Harmony, Track Coach and Adorable Wife, Tink, Janna, Tammy, etc..I am probably forgetting someone :(
Coffee-Hehehe makes my daily 1 hour each way commute almost tolerable
Advances in Medicine- this year I have had friends with premature babies, various forms of cancer, and with children who have been diagnosed with diseases...I am continually thankful that we live in a place where we can be diagnosed and treated.
Compression socks for keeping my calves alive during long training weeks.
And all of YOU for your continual support and amazing comments. I know that I don't make it around to "meet" many of you but know that I read each comment and am truly touched by the kindness of strangers.

That is what I am THANKFUL for... What about you??

PS.. Hint.. by Commenting on this post you will earn a free entry in the upcoming Giveaway :)

Tell me about it Lou and the 110% Fallacy

2011-11-21T07:59:00.000-08:00

I was looking for a quote for my Facebook Status Today.. I was looking for something that dispelled the notion that anyone can give 110%...and somehow landed on a Goldmine of quotes from Lou Holtz on thinkexist.com

Don't Know who Lou Holtz is?? Go HERE.

He says it way better than I ever could..

"If what you did yesterday seems big,
you haven't done anything today."

"The man who complains about the way the ball bounces is likely the one who dropped it."

"It's not the loads that breaks you down-
it's the way you carry it."

"If you're bored with life- you don't get up every morning with the burning desire to do thing- you don't have enough goals."

"Don't be a spectator, don't let life pass you by."

"No one has ever drowned in sweat."

"Life is ten percent what happens to you and
ninety percent how you respond to it."

"Ability is what you're capable of doing.
Motivation determines what you do.
Attitude determines how well you do it."

***And I found what I was looking for HERE:

"Many people tell us to give 110%. Technically, that is impossible. How can you give 110%, when 100% is all there is? So, let's give 100%. That's impossible too, isn't it? You can't give everything you've got, without dying. So, if you really really try, how much are you giving, 90%? 95%? 85%? Well, it is hard to tell. In fact, it is often impossible to compare one person's trying with another's. What we mean is, "Try really really hard." We might as well call that 100%, give it 100%. But hey, maybe you can actually try even harder. Try harder than you thought possible. So, let's give 110%!"

I love the notion of giving it my ALL, leaving it all on the pavement. I get the IDEA of "Giving it 100%" but it bothers me when people think that they can give 110%.. It cant be done. I love the last sentence in the paragraph above...

"Try Harder than you thought possible."

The big word in that sentence is "YOU." Trying, giving it your all, it is about YOU. I will never run as fast as Kara Goucher, have the abs of Dara Torres, or kill my running shoes with ultra miles like Dean Karnazes...they have a capacity that is beyond my own. I could give everything I had and still never get there. Do I compare myself to them? Sometimes.. Do I wish that I could win races and have a 115lb body full of muscles? Maybe... But I cant give 110% to Running, Fitness, etc.. It is not possible.

Moral of my Rambling??

To achieve more than YOU thought was possible for YOURSELF all you have to do it try harder than YOU thought was possible. Sounds simple right?? If you think it is simple you haven't tested your own limits.... The last time I REALLY pushed myself was May 2010 at the Eugene Marathon (Report HERE) since then I have lost my PUSH...I hope to find it again soon...in the mean time I would love to hear from all of you...

Leave a comment about a time when you gave more than you thought was possible. What happened?

Long Time

2011-11-18T07:53:00.000-08:00

Since the start of Tall Mom I have hardly taken a day off from the Bloggy world, a break here or there, I try to avoid the computer on the weekends, etc.. but a full week?? WOW!!

Welcome new Bloggy Pack members!! So happy to have you here.

What is new in Tall Mom Land??

1. I got to see Steven Tyler and hold his Murse (Man Purse) when he forgot it at his lunch table.
2. My leg leg is not functional. I was on my feet a lot on marble floors, wearing sandals and not drinking enough water. This resulted in major cramping. My left hamstring, calf and knee are very sore. I am taking a forced REST until the pain subsides.

3. I know I promised GIVEAWAYS...well they are still there and coming soon. Still trying to find water.

4. I am so happy to be HOME and back with my boys!!! Being a working Mom is HARD especially when my Big Girl job takes me away for 12 days.. I am so glad it is Friday and next week is a short week!!

5. We have started CHRISTMAS shopping!! Hard to believe that we are just 5 weeks away. Do you know what you are going to ask for?? If not I will have some great ideas next week!!

I leave you with a quote to INSPIRE you for the weekend..

Things may come to those who wait,
but only the things left by those who hustle.
Abraham Lincoln

Have you ever had a Celeb encounter? Tell me about it!!
What do you do when you cant run to stay fit?
Any fun ideas for Christmas?

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!

Day of Hope 10K

2011-11-09T16:49:00.000-08:00

I got to run in Maui!!!

And WOW was it HILLY!!!

I wish I had more time to write a full report but I dont.....I am WORKING... Please enjoy the less than great pictures below.
Four Seasons Resort
Love it!
All ready to Run.
The potty line and local kiddo volunteers playing a funny circle game.
I loved this ladies socks.. This was just before the AWESOME streatch.
Hello Blury Tall Mom
I found some friends from Spokane and chatted before the race.
Mile 5.2
Finish Line mister
Sweaty Tall Mom
The finish
Post Race GRUB
Cooling down
AHHHHHHHHHH!!
Best Post race EVER!
More soon..

Aloha!!

I'm Still Alive!!

2011-11-04T17:36:00.000-07:00

I arrive in Maui safely and will be running the Day of Hope 10K tomorrow. I have been SLAMMED with my big girl job and I dont think I will have time to post much. I had hopes of getting in some giveaway posts, but I cant do everything... SORRY!!

Love you all and I hope to take some pictures of my Race..

In the mean time below is how my AMAZING Talloween went. Since Muscle Man (aka Popeye) opted to stay home, I opted for the Ghost Buster costume instead!! Thankfully Tall Sister joined in the fun, we had a BLAST!

What are you up to???

Tall Mom

Happy Talloween

2011-10-31T16:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween

Or in our house Talloween

Just kidding, I just thought if that when I went to type a title for this post. We have had some fun Halloween Nights the past few years. Last year was tough and a big blur, but we made it though.. Enjoy the Timeline of Talloween in my house..

2010-
We did not dress up, it was hard a couple weeks after my Dad passed.
2009-
I wore my Giraffe costume from my race.
2008-
Our first family Halloween, so we used Super Baby for our costume.

2007-
LS# 2 was in my Belly.. We reused the Turtle costume a few years later.2006-
Our First Halloween as parents.. And guess what?? I didn't put film in the camera!! Mommy FAIL!!

Tonight the Little Studs, Green Lantern and Captain America, will be lead around by their parents Popeye and Olive.. I am looking forward to having a nice family night, with the return of SMILES on Halloween!!

What are you up to tonight??

Locker Room Hoarder

2011-10-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

In a haze yesterday morning I failed to grab my Running bag. I realized when I went to leave my Jeep and did not have multiple bags to carry. UGH!! I knew that the weather would be nice and I NEEDED to burn off some calories, yes folks I have ZERO WILLPOWER around snack-sized Halloween Candy.

I went to the locker room and realized that I am a Locker Room Hoarder, I had everything I needed for a run. Mind you it was a miss-matched Punky Brewster Mess.. I sent the email below to my Running Buddies:

I left my Running bag at home, I was SLEEPY this morning and spaced on it. So I looked in my locker at work.. I have the gear to Run… One problem for matchy-matchy me..

Shorts:

Brooks Epiphany in lilac purple with day glow orange piping

Top:

See-through white tee with a dark red sports bra under (Classy)
Or
Royal blue long sleeve zip up with gray and black accents

Socks:

White with red striped stitching

Wow am I going to look HOT!!

Hugs friends!!

From your Pal Tall Punky Brewster, Garminless, Ipodless, Runner..

The email above lead to some fun ideas to come... more on that later. I was prepared to toss away my matching obsession and get in my 3 miles, hoping that the paparazzi would not catch me on the run (a Tall gal can dream right?). THANKFULLY when I pulled out my gear to run there was a pair of Navy shorts in my locker just under my lilac pair (HOARDER). Punky Run avoided. SCORE!!!

It was nice to run by feel and not stare at my Garmin. The weather was perfect, sunny and a crisp 55'. I was entertained by the countless Ducks in the nearby river. The plank wood bridge will soon be covered by leaves of the over-hanging trees. The smokers were in their usual spot, standing and STARING, I always wonder what they think when I run by. As I got close to my turn around there was a group of 5 men taking up the whole path.. REALLY?? I snuck by and made my turn.

I imagined this group was part of the Renton Mafia (no such thing) dressed in their suites with foreign accents, I gently said "On your right" as I quickly zoomed past. My knee is still bothering me, I have had trouble off and on since I began running in 2009. I had 2 knee surgeries in early 2000, an ACL repair and scar tissue and meniscus repair. When I gain weight I feel it and when I slack on my PR exercises. The plan for now is to rest, ice, shed some pounds and get back to strength exercises. If those steps do not cure the pain I will find a Doctor.

On my way back I spotted a Tall Crane in the swamp area, pretty sure we made eye contact, like kindred spirits :)

It was only 3 miles.
It was in the most uncomfortable shorts ever.
I had no Garmin and no Ipod.
My knee is still funky.

It was PERFECT!!!

Get out there this weekend and connect with your Run, you will be glad you did.

Coming up on Tall Mom? I will be on Work Travel in early November so I am planning a WEEK OF GIVEAWAYS November 7-11 with the Winners announced on November 21st. Be sure to hit Follow here or "Like" my Facebook Page HERE so you don't miss out on the chance to WIN!!
You still have time to Enter to win $40 to PlanetGear.com and have PlanetGear donate $1 on your behalf if you like their Facebook Page. Click HERE for more details.
What is the craziest outfit you have ever worn on the Run?

PlanetGear Giveaway

2011-10-27T07:56:00.000-07:00

How Cool is that???

In order to spread the word and get as much $$$$$$ for the Breast Cancer Fund as possible, I have teamed up with PlanetGear.com to host a little Giveaway..

First Off in case you don't know about PlanetGear.com below is a little about them...

The world's best gear, apparel, and travel destinations at prices up to 70% off on most leading outdoor brands. Sale events start daily at 9:00am PST and last up to 7 days. All sales are on a first come, first serve basis. So please come visit us early, and have fun shopping!

At PlanetGear.com we're passionate about people, the outdoors and the world we live in, and we're excited to share this passion with you.

Invite your friends to become members of PlanetGear.com, and we'll send you an instant $10.00 credit when they make their first purchase* Membership is free!

Cheers,

The PlanetGear Team

We believe in the outdoors. Fresh air. Fresh tracks. Warm sand. Starry skies. Drifting snow. Lazy rivers. The places we go to find inspiration.

We believe in gear. Warm fleece jackets, stretchy yoga wear, energy bars, bells for our beach cruisers. The things that bring comfort to our lives outdoors.

We believe in exploring. Inspiring destinations, travel blogs, dreamy landscapes. Experiences that create sweet, unforgettable memories.

We believe in giving back. Clean air, clear water, healthy living. To preserve our world, we donate to grassroots environmental groups through 1% for the Planet.

We believe in sharing. We work with the best brands in the outdoor and active lifestyle communities to bring our members exclusive deals on gear, apparel, and travel destinations.

WHAT WILL YOU WIN?

$40 to spend on PlanetGear.com

HOW DO YOU ENTER? One Comment per entry

REQUIRED- "Like" PlanetGear on Facebook HERE, for every new Like before October 31st they will donate $1 to Breast Cancer Awareness Fund!! Leave a Comment.

BONUS

1- Share about the PlanetGear Facebook page HERE and their efforts to "help spread the love." Leave a comment telling me how you shared.

2- Recruit a new "Like" to the PlanetGear facebook page. Leave a Comment each time to let me know who you recruited, the more people you recruit the more entries you get!!!

3- Become a Member on PlanetGear.com HERE. Leave a Comment letting me know what you loved about the website.

4-Visit my Tall Mom Facebook Page HERE and Leave a Comment on the Image I posted for an additional Entry.

***Contest Ends 10/31 and Winner will be announced 11/1

Solo

2011-10-25T07:46:00.000-07:00

Last night I thought about going to run with the Fleet Feet Run Club to meet some new friends, but they meet at 6:30 on a DARK trail, I didn't know if anyone would be there who ran my pace and I did not want my time with my family eaten up waiting. Instead on set out at about 5:45PM to run around my neighborhood.

OBSERVATIONS:

-There is an influx of Halloween decorations, I took mental note of the houses I plan to AVOID with the Little Studs next Monday.

-Running when my dinner is not settled is GROSS..

-Smells of dryer exhaust, Dinner and wet leaves.

-I could see my breath but I did not feel cold

-The sun went down and it was dim, I could see my shadow in the Street signs when a car passed.

-There was a game on the field at the nearby High School, the scoreboard and lights gave me a feeling of nostalgia.

-My Knee felt horrible, every step was labored and painfull. I know I need to get it checked out, but I fear what the Dr. will say.

-I felt heavy...remembering a time when running felt "easy" I wish I could get to that level of fitness again.

-I SPRINTED up and down the hills, longing to feel SPEED. I played with SPEED during my run not able to hold it long.

-An Ambulance passed, and later a Firetruck, headed toward the High School, I prayed that all was OK.

-I also prayed for Harmony and her family, for Amanda and Chelsea...I feel helpless when my friends are struggling.

-It started to get dark, I looped around my neighborhood to get in 4 miles, then went home.

I NEEDED this solo run. To connect with my surroundings, my body, my thoughts.. Running is not easy right now. I feel heavy and I am in pain. My schedule is busy leaving little time for a consistent running schedule. I don't have any solid Running goals or plans. What I realized last night is that regardless of how HARD it is right now, one thing is certain.

I LOVE TO RUN!!!

And at the end of the day that is truly what matters..

A Runner Runs..

I don't need to worry about Pace.
I don't need to worry about my Weekly Mileage.
I don't have to stress about not having a Training Plan.
I don't need to have a race or BIG Event on the spectrum.
I don't need the pressure I just need to RUN, when I can and to love it...

Running Solo helped me come to this conclusion...

Runner Girl vs. Mother Nature

2011-10-24T07:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I posed a question on Facebook HERE:

Being a Runner Girl is not fun when Mother Nature comes to visit. Anyone want to chime in on this taboo subject and give advice for Running through that time of the month?

There were some great responses, thanks ladies!! What brought up this question?? TMI post ahead BEWARE.. I had a Mirena IUD put in after Little Stud #2 was born. I LOVED it because I did not have my monthly visitor, not in the normal sense anyhow. However during the 3++ years I have had the IUD I have experienced debilitating Stomach pains. I have had every test done with no results, so I finally pulled my IUD and the pains went away.

This weekend was my first visit from PMS since the IUD removal and WOW!!!

Call it what you want.....

Mother Nature

That Time of the Month

Monthly Visitor

Aunt Flow

Any way you shake it, it SUCKS for Running!!

Reading the Comments on Facebook HERE some women have had accidents while Running, now that is a bad day...

I did a quick Google Search for "Tips for Running while on your period" various articles came up. This one HERE was pretty helpful....below is some info from the article..

Because of the sharp drop in hormone levels prior to menstruation, many women experience some of the following symptoms:

Anxiety
Depression
Increased insulin responsiveness
Food cravings
Fatigue
Headaches

Obviously, these symptoms can make exercising during your period unpleasant to say the least. But exercising can actually make your period more manageable, decreasing many of these symptoms. It is safe and beneficial to exercise during your period, unless your doctor advises against it.

There are many benefits to exercising during your period. Working out can help:

Decrease the pain of cramps by releasing endorphins (the body's natural painkillers), increasing blood flow, and by loosening muscles in your lower abdomen, back, and thighs.
Rid your body of excess water so you aren’t bloated.
Improve and stabilize your mood, making you less anxious, angry, or depressed.

Of course, there are even more benefits to a regular exercise program. By exercising consistently, you may be able to achieve a lighter and shorter menstrual flow, a lower incidence of mood swings, and a stronger pelvic floor, which can better support your reproductive organs.

The following suggestions will help you develop a synergy between menstruation and exercise, so you can optimize your workouts, and your periods.

If you are just beginning an exercise program, and you suffer from cramps and other period-related issues, then start out slowly. Make sure you're listening to your body and not overdoing it.
Increase exercise around your period, which will improve oxygen circulation throughout the body.
Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
Avoid lots of salt (but use spices, especially spicy ones, liberally).
Avoid refined sugars and fried foods.
Avoid caffeine—it can make cramps worse.
Get plenty of sleep.
Use heat to relieve cramps so you can get to the gym and stick to your workouts.

My Advice???
Slow down, this is not the time for speed work, turn off the Garmin and listen to your body.
Look at a calendar and try not to plan and "A" races during that time if you can avoid it.
Over prepare, always have supplies in your running bag and while on the run.
Wear dark colored bottoms and layers of protection, accidents are not fun.

Runner Girl vs. Mother Nature

We don't have to let Mother Nature Win!! Give in to the square of chocolate if you need to, take a few pain relievers, reduce your long run or save it for another day, get out there and do what you can!! You wont regret it.

Signing off from PMS Land- Tall Mom

Ps.. Sorry to my Male readers, pretty sure there are only a few.. Coach Ken if you are reading this, Hi :)

Marathons in the Media

2011-10-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed the influx of Marathons in the Media the past few weeks? These stories have been discussed on facebook and the Blog world.. Although I hate to beat a dead and overplayed topic I have opinions on these subjects... so here goes.

Man Rides bus to Finish Line

Story HERE
I have witnessed runners cutting courses short twice in my life and I can honestly say that NOTHING URKS ME MORE!!! Why in the world would you cheat?? What is the point?? This idiot was stupid enough to finish in the top 3 and actually strolled up to claim the Medal. REALLY? When I ran Boston my body gave out at mile 4. I wanted to quit, I wanted to take public transportation, I wanted to find a short cut...but THERE ARE NO SHORT CUTS in MARATHONS!!!! PERIOD!!! I run the same little loop in my neighborhood, I know that I should end at my doorstep at 3 miles...some days my Garmin is off and it does not hit 3 at my house...I know that it is 3 miles, but until my Garmin chimes I am not done running. I will run up the block and back, look pretty silly to get in the miles. I DON'T TAKE SHORT CUTS!!

This guys is a moron and should be banned from all future Marathons.

Woman 39 Weeks Pregnant Runs Marathon then Gives Birth

Story HERE Youtube Interview HERE

I have seen this story posted in countless places. This 27 year old woman was nearly 39 weeks pregnant and ran/walked the Chicago Marathon. Soon after the race she gave birth. Most people are calling the woman "Inspiring." I am amazed at women who run their entire pregnancies, I wrote a post about it HERE. When I first heard this story I cringed, and I said out loud "Why would she do that?" Although I think that Running up until you "pop" is inspiring I do not think Running a Marathon 39 weeks pregnant is inspiring. I think it is dangerous and selfish.

I don't know this woman, so I should keep my opinions to myself. Kudos to her for keeping her fitness level so high throughout pregnancy and for getting Doctors approval and for taking it SLOW. BUT.... If this story sparks some competitive women to match what she did and we may have an influx of 9 month pregnant women toeing the line of every Marathon. Her story ended well, but it could have been tragic. When I was pregnant my first priority was my child. 1st and 2nd trimester may be OK for a Marathon... BUT... I think the 3rd trimester should be reserved for moderation and relaxation...there is nothing about 26.2 miles that is moderate or relaxing. End of Rant..

Biggest Loser Marathon

A few seasons of the Biggest Loser have ended with a Marathon for the Final contestants. This year every participant will run the Biggest Loser Marathon at the end of the season. WOW!!! REALLY?? I realize that the contestants workout 7-8 hours daily, but are they training for a Marathon during that time? Did the trainers or Biggest Loser folks create a Marathon training plan for them? Also this is an EXTREME weight loss competition, personally I gain weight during Marathon training because I am FAMISHED!!

It is good TV to watch the Biggest Loser Marathon, I admit to watching it, I was disappointed when they didn't do it last season. BUT... I think that having every contestant regardless of weight, medical issues, etc. run the Marathon is not right!! A Marathon is a personal choice and should be entered into with careful planning and a WANT. Fitting in training/running when they are in the gym so much for the competition may be tough. I fear that the excess weight and POUNDING of miles may cause more harm than good. I am anxious to see how this all plays out..

WOW Guess I have some opinions Huh?? Sorry about that.
What are your thoughts?
Plans for the weekend?

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!

Winner and a few things Thursday

2011-10-20T12:25:00.000-07:00

The WINNER of the Team Sparkle Giveaway is:
Talso66 @ Keeping My Pace

**Please email me the color and size you would like at tallmomontherun (@) hotmail

And a few things...

1. I will be in Hawaii in November for my Big Girl Job.. and Guess what?? There is a 10K race while I am there!! I am super excited to run in Hawaii. Is anyone running the "Day of Hope" on Maui November 5th? Race info HERE. The money goes to the American Cancer Society.

2. It is getting DARK earlier here :( This means that our Family runs will come to an end soon. This is SAD to me!! I have loved running with Muscle Man and the Little Studs. I love Fall, not really a fan of Winter, I don't like the shorter days it is a bummer for a runner. Good news is that Muscle Man has been running on his own. I am HOPING this means that there is a Half Marathon in his near future.

3. I was playing on a FUN website the other night cartoonize.net. All you do is upload a photo and the website creates a cartoon-type image you can download. I tried several photos, below are my faves from running.. I think they look a little like paintings.

4. My Run Wild race pictures came back, so I created a little montage to show the progression toward the Finish Line.. Wow do I have CRAZY FORM!! Funny thing is I know this and I really don't care. In College my coaches and trainers tried to fix how I ran, they told me to keep my knee straighter, lift my legs higher, drop my shoulders, etc.. The more they changed my form the SLOWER I got running up and down the court. They finally gave up..and I resumed my wonky form.

5. I have been the WORST host for the Tall Mom 1,000+++ Club this year :( But I am happy to report that people seem to be hitting their goals without any inspiration from me. I love getting emails from folks who are PROUD to reach the milestone, thanks to Anne @ This Mom's Running Life for emailing and for her post "Goals are Good". I passed the 1,000 mark on October 11th!! Always exciting. With just 70 days left in the year will you hit your goal??

Hard to believe there are only 70 days left in the year!!! Will you try for 1,000+++ in 2012??

6. I am debating testing the Ultra waters in 2012... 50K to be exact, It is the Rainier To Ruston Ultra and is just down the road. The course has changed from last year, I am a little intimidated by trails, but I would like to take on a new adventure.. I have no desire to go into the 50 milers like Shelly or the 100's like Emz, Hannah and Jesse, you are are AMAZING!!

7. SPECIAL Thanks to everyone who commented on my Feed Me Post HERE. Since I could not select the best recipe, I used Random.org to pick the winner of a tube of Nuun. Winner is Running Moose. Please email to claim your Nuun.

8. If you are not already a fan of Tall Mom on Facebook HERE please head there and hit "Like" I plan to host a few fun giveaways that will be on Facebook in the weeks to come and I don't want my faithful readers to miss out :)

9. I wanted to race this weekend..BUT I also want to SLEEP!! Decisions, Decisions... What would you do?

10. Marlene HERE is a ROCK Star and killed her Marathon, head over and tell her congrats. My Little Nuun HTC buddy Dorothy HERE also sped to an amazing PR in her Marathon.

That's all I got.. How are you??

Tall Mom Test Lab Tuesday

2011-10-18T07:50:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the newest Members of the Tall Mom Bloggy Pack!!! Over 1,200 strong, I feel honored to have you all along for the Run.

I have not done a Test Lab Tuesday in forever.. I am super behind sharing the WONDERFUL products that I have been testing. With Christmas just around the corner this post may give you some ideas for things to add to your Christmas List.

The folks at Tommie Copper HERE were nice enough to send me a few things to TEST. I put the Women's Compression Shirt and knee Sleeve through the paces last night.
Women's Compression Shirt HERE- $44.50
First impression I love the feel of the fabric and the cut of the shirt. This would be ideal for Fall Racing, paired with arm sleeves. I love the color and fit. The only problem I had was the shirt kept riding up because of my running skirt. My solution? Next time I may use small safety pins to hold the shirt down, or try it without my Running Skirt. You will see this super slimming and comfy shirt OFTEN, I am in LOVE!

Knee Compression Sleeve HERE- $24.50
My knee has been really bothering me lately so I was excited to test this sleeve. Unfortunately the fit was not right for me. I have large quads and calves, the bands were tight in those places but the knee sleeve itself was loose. I liked that I could run and didn't notice the knee sleeve and that it kept my knee warm, I just wish it was a bit more compression on my trouble area.

Sof Sole Coolmax Performance Socks HERE
These are my FAVORITE socks right now, I scored on a few pairs at an expo for $5!! They are cushy but also let my feet breathe (yes feet need to breathe). I have had no troubles with bunching or blisters...my only issues?? I NEED more pairs!!

One Good Earbud HERE- $19.95
I love to run with music, but I am also want to be aware of my surroundings and SAFETY. I was sent the in-ear bud to test and it is GREAT! No more do I have to tuck the extra earbud in my bra strap. The super long cord makes for a comfortable fit, I put the cord under my shirt and tucked into my spandex. As a Tall gal the cords are usually an issue, this cord is perfect for me.. ONE EARBUD!! Genius!!

Auria Earbuds HERE- $33.99
Auria is all about customization and sound quality. I was not able to truly experience the sound quality of the earbuds because I only wore 1. What I did notice was the great fit in my ear and a crisp sound beyond the regular Ipod earbuds. The price is a bit higher than I would normally pay, so I am curious to know how long these earbuds last.

Chris Cooper- "Long May You Run" HERE
New and experienced Runners alike will love this book. It is hard to define the book, I would call it an inspirational reference book. Chris covers a multitude of topics with detail and flare. There are quotes from Famous runners and quit tips helpful for ALL facets of your running life. I recommend this book for Moms because it is a quick read, you don't have to read it all at once, you can pick it up to get the info you need from Relays to Marathons to destination runs.

Matt Long- "The Long Run" HERE
This book is about a New York City Firefighters amazing comeback from a tragic accident which ripped his body apart. I love books that are written in journal style, no frilly language, an easy read from the person who experienced it. Matt Long is honest about the hardships, up and extreme downs of recovery and adjusting to the limits of his new body. If you ever think you cant run a Marathon, you MUST read this book. INSPIRING!!!

BATTLE TESTED
TALL MOM APPROVED

COMING SOON TO THE TEST LAB:

Mina Samuels- "Run Like a Girl" HERE
Gone for a Run Medal Hanger HERE

SLS Butterfly Compression Socks HERE

Champions New Eco Athletic Apparel HERE

Ila Sport Security HERE

Don't Forget to enter my Team Sparkle Skirt Giveaway HERE
AND my buddy Melody also has a Team Sparkle Giveaway HERE
What products have you tested that you LOVE?

******I was sent these items free of charge for testing and review purposes. My opinions are my own and I was not compensated for my review.

1 Year

2011-10-17T07:51:00.000-07:00

It has been 1 Year since my Dad passed away suddenly due to an undiagnosed Heart Condition, I like to say his Heart was too big for his body. I have felt him with me often, most often when I am running. I struggled during the Boston Marathon and he was there in spirit to help me reach the finish (Report HERE.) I often find myself going to a dark place of sadness but the one thing I CAN do is pass on his Legacy through my SMILE... As you can see from the picture above my Smile came from Dad.

I know that many of my posts this year have included notes on my Dad, Grief is a real thing, this Blog is my journal and I don't hide how I feel, the ups and the downs. My family has held strong, my Mom especially, she inspires me daily.

My advice is to LIVE each day to the fullest and be sure to tell the people you LOVE how you feel. LIFE is shorter than you think.. This Year has passed so quickly. My plan for 2012 is ever evolving what I do know is that I am going to focus on passing on his LEGACY, giving my heart permission to think ONLY of the great memories and to SMILE.

I love you Dad and today my Dimples shine for you!!!

Feed me Friday

2011-10-14T07:58:00.000-07:00

If you have read Tall Mom for more than a minute you know that I am not a Foodie. I LOVE to EAT don't get me wrong, but I lack the essentials of menus planning, ideas and ummm I cant cook :) (strike that, I have no interest in learning to cook).

This post has 1 purpose to...

FEED ME

Please leave comments with suggestions for HEALTHY options that keep you energized and ready to RUN, Recipes, links, ideas, and your favorites for..

Breakfast
Snacks
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Nighttime HUNGER
Pre-Run
Post-Run
Other??

To give you some incentive.... The BEST idea/comment to FEED ME will get a tube of Nuun your choice from my stash and an additional entry into my Team Sparkle Giveaway HERE.

Team Sparkle Giveaway

2011-10-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite signs from a spectator while racing is:

You don't Sweat you SPARKLE

I do sweat, I love the idea that as a female runner I can be feminine while giving it my all on the run. Enter Team Sparkle HERE.I was introduced to Team Sparkle through Nuun, two of the founders of Team Sparkle Carrie HERE and Kelly HERE were in my Vanmates for Hood to Coast. I LOVE these ladies!! And I was proud to test the Team Sparkle Skirt for the first time at See Jane Run.

What a great way to add some color and cover up the BORING capris. My sister and I go loads of compliments on the run which is always fun. The best part about the Team Sparkle Skirts are you can wear them over anything, so light weight you will hardly know you are wearing a skirt.

Team AfterNuun Delight wore the skirts for Hood to Coast and they were GREAT! Ideal for relays making teammates easy to spot on the course and for handoffs.
I also wore my Blue skirt on 9-11 for the Iron Girl 5K, showing my pride in Red White and Blue.
Team Sparkle Skirts are
TALL MOM APPROVED!!

Since the ladies at Team Sparkle love you, they are giving you a chance to WIN!!

What will you WIN?

1 Team Sparkle skirt
color and size of your choice

How do you Enter?
One comment per entry please.

REQUIRED- Like Team Sparkle on Facebook HERE. Leave a Comment to let me know you "like" Team Sparkle.

Extra entries...

1- Answer the question- How do you Sparkle? Leave a Comment.

2- Go to the Team Sparkle Store HERE, shop around and tell me what color you will chose when you win. Leave a Comment.

3- Share the Giveaway on your Blog, Twitter, Facebook, etc.. Leave a Comment each time you share.

****Giveaway ends and WINNER will be announced on 10-20.

semi-Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-12T12:12:00.001-07:00

Photo credit??

Friendiversaries

2011-10-11T07:33:00.000-07:00

On 10-10-09 I had my First Blogger/Runner/Buddy date.. and it was with none other than the Amazing Amanda at 5 Miles past Empty HERE. Our First "Date" HERE turned into a friendship I cherish EVERY day!! I get pretty sappy when I talk about Amanda, in fact last year just before Amanda moved away, ironically on our 1 Year Friendiversary, I wrote this SAPPY post HERE. Hard to believe it has only been 2 years. Last week Amanda's Dad lost his fight with Cancer, I dedicated my 8K to him and I have been checking in with Amanda each day. I feel helpless living so far away, but I do what I can. If only we could RUN together, CRY together...but alas this miles between are just too far.. Happy Friendiversary!! I WILL see you soon...
Looking at the calendar I realized that I have another Friendiversary this time of year. Jess at Blonde Ponytail HERE and I met at a Bloggy meet-up hosted by Stacie HERE on 10-9-10, I was in Portland to cheer Amanda on for her Marathon. Having both been college athletes we had an instant connection, hard to believe that this time last year Jess didn't have a Blog. I WISH that she and Coach lived on the west side of the state because we would be STELLAR training buddies.
I like to celebrate Friendiversaries, first off because it is a funny word and second, it is fun to see how far we have come TOGETHER.. There is a special bond formed when you run with someone. What happens on the run stays on the run!!! Thank you Jess and Amanda for being my buddies, my spare bedroom is open whenever you want to crash at Casa-de-Tall Mom.

I have been BLESSED to meet amazing people through Blogland. I am always talking about my "friends" and that is what I consider my Bloggy Buddies, regardless of if we get to see eachother daily or not.

Checking in with my FRIENDS in Blog Land:
in no particular order, click name to go to the blog

HARMONY- Please say a prayer for Harmony, her husband discovered cancer in his leg and they are going through a very tough time right now.

HANNAH- Completed the Heartland 100 this past weekend. WOW oh WOW!!

MARLENE- It is her BIRTHDAY this week!! And she has a little 26.2 jaunt planned this weekend. Stop in and wish her GOOD LUCK!

KERRIE- My author friend has a PLAN to get her book written, maybe she will let me write the forward ;p

ZOE- and Goober and Trav are still in China, she will be back on 11-15, can't wait to hear all about the trip.

MORGAN- Suffered an injury and has turned to bone stimulation. I am praying that she finds her way to health soon.

CHELSEA- Has taken a break from Blogging but she is able to start running again and has some goals for next year.

Kim- Will be running Girlfriends Half Marathon this weekend with her stellar new playlist.

T- Died her hair a WOW color and is <1 month from NYC and Richmond Marathons!!

Track Coach & Adorable Wife- Were my buddies this weekend, Tressa took some fun photos which I posted on Tall Mom Facebook HERE.

This is by no means EVERYONE...but hey the post has to end sometime.
Do you celebrate Friendiversaries?
If you do not have running buddies I URGE you to take a step toward meeting people, you will be glad you did!!

Friendship isn't a big thing - it's a million little things.
~Author Unknown

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.
~Albert Schweitzer

A true friend never gets in your way unless you happen to be going down.
~Arnold Glasow

Friends are those rare people who ask how you are and then wait for the answer.
~Author Unknown

Run Wild 8K Race Report

2011-10-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

I ran the Run Wild 5K in 2009 (REPORT HERE) I placed 2nd for women in the 5K and 1st in my Age group, I really liked the race. Since I had never run an 8K I was excited to test the distance. I am not in Speed shape, as I have repeated over and over and over this year.. sorry faithful readers for the broken record. The race runs through the Northwest Trek Wildlife park and is very well organized. Muscle Man and the Little Studs were planning to come but LS#1 came down with a fever so I was SOLO..

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE SOLO??
Walk around, and take self portraits.. hehehe. It was chilly when I left the car. I had plenty of time to kill so I decided to run a warm-up Mile..

Also took pictures of my feet. I wore my Brooks Adrenalines, Green Recovery Socks and Cheetah Running Skirt.. My skirt got some attention from others..I chatted with a tall gal on my way out of the restroom and told her where she could buy her own skirt..
I made my way to the WARM REAL restroom and snapped another self portrait.. Yep I am a DORK when I am alone. Back to my car to shed the coat and go on my warm-up lap..

Just then I ran into Tressa and Jesse @ Track Coach and his Adorable Wife so nice to see my friends, Jesse was going to run the 5K. I set out on my warm-up run.. Funny thing about warm-ups, you see the COMPETITORS.. Mind you this race is not uber-competitive I knew I would place in my Age group. There was a small gal doing proper warm-ups, I knew she would WIN (I was right). During my warm-up I realized that I did not need my Pearl Izumi outer layer, so I did a quick change of the race number and set out to line up.

The walkers took off then Jesse and I took our places at the front, both in GREEN.. Tressa took our photo, will post soon. My goal was to have 7:14 pace for a sub 36 8K, AMBITIOUS but I was hopeful.

Mile 1= 7:13- My plan was to hold back and not get caught up in the SPEEDY start of the race. The course does a little loop which makes it pretty congested. I realized I was holding back a little too much and weaved to find my stride.

Mile 2= 7:49- The 8K folks go to the right for an out and back, for some reason the INSTANT my feet hit the gravel my body S-L-O-W-E-D. I panicked, I had no idea why my legs were not working. In my mind I gave up all hope of getting anywhere close to my goal. The view on this stretch was so pretty, sun shining and a lovely lake view. I worried less about my pace and enjoyed the BEAUTY.

Mile 3= 7:37- I was getting passed by a few men but holding my 3rd overall female spot. I tried to get my legs to turn over faster but I didn't have it :( The volunteers were GREAT, cheering and enthusiastic, I loved the cheerleaders at the water stops. I could see just how far behind me the next ladies were on the out and back, I used the men in front of me to set my pace.

Mile 4= 7:37- I could see that my lead on the next 2 ladies was dwindling... I thought about my friend Amanda and dug deep, I was racing for her, her Dad lost his battle with cancer last week. I told myself to ENJOY it!! The PERFECT day for a race, regardless if my body wanted to move or not. I would tough out the last mile.. Just before I entered the Park the Volunteer said "You are almost to the Finish," HMMM having run the race before I knew that I had at least Half a mile left, she probably should not be telling people that... oh well.

Mile 5= 7:02- As I rounded the corner by the Cougar enclosure I got passed by "Tsunami Sam" the name was written on her shirt, I wanted to hold pace and I did speed up but she strided away. Next a pretty little gal in a Fleet Feet shirt passed me, I sped up to stick with her and HOPED I could catch back up. The last mile has switch-backs and a steep uphill to the Finish. My Garmin was not showing me my pace so I just RAN.. As I got to the top of the hill I saw a woman to my left trying to pass, I KICKED it I was NOT getting passed again. I SPRINTED....probably looked like a T-Rex armed crazy woman as usual :)

NOTE= I cant believe I ran the last mile in 7:02 and got passed by 2 people, WTH!?!?!?!

Crossed the FINISH, proud of my first 8K performance, not as fast as I wanted but a solid Effort.

37:15 (PR since it was my first)

7:29 pace

Tressa and Jesse were at the finish, he rocked his race!! I would have placed higher in the 5K, oh well :( I chatted with them for a bit then they went off to wander the park with their little guy. I talked to Tsunami Sam and the Fleet Feet girl, both used me as their motivation....hmmm future race strategy.. I got some snacks and coffee and looked at the results..

5th overall female and SCORE I placed 1st in my Age group!! Next year I will train, I LOVE this race!! On my way home I stopped off to take a picture of Mount Rainier, posted on Dailymile HERE, I had to get my RUNNERD sticker in the next pick.

This week I will pass 1,000 miles for the year!! YIPPEE! How are you doing??
Also keep an eye out for my next Giveaway, it is sure to Sparkle :)

WIINNER of the Oiselle Tee

2011-10-10T07:57:00.000-07:00

That to everyone who entered and to Oiselle HERE for sponsoring the Giveaway. Be sure to tell others about the item(s) you put on your Christmas list.

The WINNER is

Penny @ Pink Hat Runner

Penny email me tallmomontherun (@) hotmail.com to claim your Start Line Tee!!

When it Rains...

2011-10-06T07:47:00.000-07:00

This morning on Endurance isn't Only Physical Facebook page HERE she asked for rainy race day tips.. This question busted be out of my Bloggy writers block.. Living in the PNW- Pacific Northwest we get our fair share of liquid sunshine :) I was born and raised in Washington, so I don't know any different.

Truth be told I LOVE the rain.. That is not to say that I would love to run my "A" Marathon in the rain, but if it happens I have to make the most of it.

Tall Mom's (no duh) tips

for racing/running in the rain

PREPARE= There are stages of the race/run, pre-race, race and post-race. When it rains you should be prepared for each stage.

Pre-Race- Pack a poncho or toss away clothes to keep you warm and dry. If it is going to be really soggy it may be worth putting a plastic bag around your shoes to keep them dry. Do not stand in the rain until you have to, seek cover. Wear a Hat or Visor.
Race- DO NOT OVERDRESS!! I have worn a tank top in rainy races, often people think they will get cold and bundle up but your attire should be more based on the temperature. You will warm up once you get moving. The more you wear the HEAVIER the gear will be as it gets soggy. WHAT YOU SHOULD WEAR...Spandex are a great rainy run option, I swear by Drymax Socks and arm sleeves are a good way to keep your arms dry without heating up. Wear your race number on the layer you will wear when you cross the Finish Line. Keep an eye on the ground. Avoiding puddles can be difficult in a downpour but it is worth side-stepping to save your sneakers as long as you can.
Post-Race- When you are done sweating and you start to cool-down you will notice the moisture. Pack a post-race bag with dry clothes, socks, shoes, etc.. There is nothing worse that standing around COLD to ruin your race day. Be sure to also toss in a plastic bag or two to house the soggy gear and shoes.

PROTECT YOU ELECTRONICS= Rain and expensive phones, cameras, Ipods, etc do not mix!! Use a ziplock style baggie to keep moisture out. OR just leave those items at home.

CHOSE YOUR ROUTE= This won't work on race day but does work for soggy runs. I have paths that have some tree cover, paths with MUD, trails that are prone to GIANT PUDDLES and sidewalks perfect for an easy rainy run. When you set out on a rainy day be mindful of the route you are taking, there is nothing worse than being splashed by a truck driving through a BIG PUDDLE. There is always the dun dun dun TREADMILL option :)

FIND THE BEAUTY=Often people see the weather report and FREAK OUT!! Really you have no control over it. What good is it going to do you to get your heart rate up? Weather can mess with your race, I for one would NOT love to run a Marathon in the rain after watching Amanda, Harmony, Janna, Jess, Sarah and Stacie run Portland last year. You can't control the weather but you CAN control how you react to it. Find the Beauty in the rain and avoid letting yourself get caught up in the negatives. You never know, it could be the gentle mist to cruise to a cool PR.

GET THE GEAR= As I mentioned above Drymax socks, and spandex are great for running in the rain. Some shoes are better in the rain than others, if you live in a rainy area think before you buy, keeping your feet dry is a priority. You will also need a Hat and top that will not totally absorb the water. There is a difference between a rain coat and a running rain coat. You want your top layer to be water resistant and breathable. I am not a fan of the swish swish swish type fabrics. TEST your gear on training runs. I once wore a coat in a rainy Half Marathon that was HORRIBLE, I had to carry it for 5 miles before tossing to Muscle Man. Products by Brooks HERE, Pearl Izumi HERE and Sugio HERE have served me well.

THOSE are my NO DUH TIPS..
What are yours??

Blank and a Makeover

2011-10-05T11:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I met Kerrie at Mom Vs. Marathon for a lunch run. My schedule has been CRAZY lately leaving lunch runs a distant memory. She ran to my office and I nearly missed our meeting time, got my OLD Garmin (Christmas this year time to upgrade) to catch a satellite and we were OFF.

We talked a lot about the fact that neither of us have any races in the near future after my 8K this Saturday.. I cant wrap my head around 2012, the sole race I have on the plan is Rock N Roll Seattle Half because I MUST do this race every year.. Beyond that BLANK.

-Will I help Muscle Man run his first Half Marathon?

-Will I train for a Half PR myself?

-Will I run my first Ultra to complete my Star Line Tee line-up? (Click Giveaway)

-Will I race Amanda Style and sign up at the last minute?

I honestly don't know.. I am not sure what my major block is right now. I am not overly stressed about it, but I feel like this Blog is in FLUX until I figure it out..

SOOOOOO... it is time for a MAKEOVER..

But I need your help...

What would you like to see on Tallmomontherun.com?

I am thinking of going for a White background with black text, easier to read. Sections for Race Reports, Coaching Tips, Product Reviews, etc.

What would you like to see on Tall Mom Blog Makeover?
Anyone Racing Run Wild this weekend at Northwest Trek?? If so let me know, I think I will be SOLO.

Oiselle Start Line Tee Giveaway

2011-10-03T10:37:00.000-07:00

This weekend I am going to race my first 8K. I am EXCITED because this is one more race I can account for on my Oiselle Start Line Tee HERE after this weekend I will be missing the Ultra then my tee is complete :) I love a great running T-shirt, high quality, comfortable and cute conversation piece.

Don't know about Oiselle? This awesome company was started by Sally, a Runner Mom and is based in SEATTLE!! Read the story HERE.

I LOVE my new Oiselle Outfit Start Line Tee and Long Roga shorts. I am adding a few things from their website to my Christmas list, yes I said it Christmas is Coming!!! They even have RUNDIES, what are rundies? Find out HERE.

Guess What? Oiselle loves Tall Mom Readers so they have offered a Giveaway and a Discount!!

What will you win?

Start Line Tee in the color and size of your choice

How do you Enter?

One comment per entry please..

1- Go to the Oiselle Website HERE, shop around and leave a comment with the item you would add to your Christmas list.

2- Like Oiselle on Facebook HERE leave a comment here.

3- Browse the Oiselle Blog HERE leave a comment with something fun you saw/learned.

4- Like Tall Mom on Facebook HERE leave a comment here and say Hi on Facebook if you like.

5- Share this Giveaway on your Blog, Twitter or Facebook and leave a comment each time you share.

****Contest ends and a Winner will be announced on Monday 10/10

If you love my Long Roga Shorts HERE you are in luck!!! Oiselle is offering 10% off a pair of Long Roga shorts using the discount code TALLROGA today until the contest ends.

Finish Lines 2011

2011-09-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

No Matter how long it takes

If you keep moving

One step at a time

You will Reach

The Finish Line

Get out there and Find your FINISH LINE!!!

and for a laugh....

What is your next Finish Line you are working toward??? Leave a comment...

Still Alive

2011-09-28T11:51:00.000-07:00

Quick note to let you know that I am still alive, not blogging, not running, but doing a lot of running around. My Big Girl job has taken over for a bit and I am treading water trying to stay afloat. Life will be back to NORMAL (is there a normal?) soon. In the mean time run a few miles for me will ya??

Leave a Comment to let me know about your recent STELLAR runs, will help me feel closer to the road.

BE BACK SOON....

Shifting Gears

2011-09-23T21:39:00.000-07:00

There are days when you are cruising along, all is well, the wind is in your hair.... then there are days when your path is blocked by something you did not expect and you have to shift gears.

This week has been one of those weeks for me and my House Full of Boys. Monday was Muscle Man's birthday and I was poised for the busiest week of my career at my Big Girl Job. Mid way through the day I got a call, it was Muscle Man, his real Dad in Arkansas had died. He was not close to his Father for various reasons, but this still came as a TOTAL SHOCK.

I had to work

I had to get home and take care of my husband

I did all I could at the office, tears dripping down my cheeks and went home. ALL of the balls I was juggling, all my work left for someone to take over.. I had to be with my family.

I SHIFTED GEARS

This week I balanced being a single parent and dealt with the sadness of a smaller role in the job I was so excited to do and had worked so hard for.. I supported Muscle Man from afar. I leaned on Tall Grandma and Tall Sister to take care of me...and they were WONDERFUL! THANK YOU!! And I must say our boys were pretty awesome too.. Last night they made me LAUGH at the store playing a game with the patterns on the ground.

And tonight Little Stud #1 said "Mommy how long does it take to get to the Finish Line?" I said "Depends on how long the race is." He replied in the sweetest matter of fact voice "Yes but if you Finish first you get a token." It melted my heart. This week has been ROUGH, but I made the most of it with the support of my family, friends and co-workers.

What does this have to do with running?

Just when you think you are cruising along there may be something that forces you to shift gears. Possibly an injury, busy schedule or change of seasons. You can either stop and get rusty, or find a way to make the best out of the situation and find a new path.

......Or you may be in a rut, holding for too long in the same gear....maybe it is time to shift gears to test your range beyond the comfortable? You never know what you may find.

How have you had to or chose to shift gears??

You Go Girl 2011

2011-09-21T12:14:00.000-07:00

I was not planning to run the You Go Girl Half Marathon this year. I had not been training, I was going to spend Muscle Man's birthday weekend with him....BUT we talked and I guess I heard wrong and he was OK with my running.. Thankfully my friend Amy had a bib and Tressa had a team shirt. My plan was to run with the AMAZING Kim with a sbu 2 hour goal.How cool is Tressa's sign?? I love the saying I don't sweat I sparkle, so my sign was PERFECT.. Thanks Tressa!! I texted Jill who gave me info on the best parking spot, SCORE!! We all met at the nearby Tully's and posed for loads of FUN photos..

I wore braids to support team Kerrie, I had been coaching her for a 1:55 Half shhhhhh we told everyone it was for a sub 2 hour :) I knew she would be AMAZING and I was glad that I would see her on the course.

I could tell Kerrie had her game face on, she was READY and the nervous energy was thick.. Hugs and luck from Coach Tall Mom..

Had to pose with my (no longer Imaginary) Friend before we got all sweaty. I have wanted to run with Kim forever, she is also a Tall Mom we made a great pair..

Speaking of Tall Mom's in the gang Stacie was there looking lovely as always...

And our AWESOME race support Tressa, she made signs and had her tiny baby with her the whole time. I will call her Tough Mom!! Most of these photos are from her, Thanks!!

Team picture time, Tressa stood on a chari while holding Riley, talk about talented..

We have a fun group of ladies. The course is WONDERFUL because there are out and back sections where we could wave and cheer...

It was sprinkling lightly, I was a bit torn on what to wear so I kept on my arm sleeves.. BIG MISTAKE.. Jill did one of her awesome self group shots and we waited for the race to start.

I don't remember much from the race, I was having so much fun chatting with Kim that the rest of the race melted away...

What I do remember:

-So many beautiful women, strong and unique...all out there for the same purpose to get to the Finish.

-We met reader Melissa and her husband at Tully's, she was GREAT! her hubby was along the course taking pictures but I don't remember seeing him.

-Jill with her hippie hair running the 10K (love you Jill)

-I got HOT and muggy after the first mile. It was raining but too hot for arm sleeves and 2 layers.. i know better!!

-UP the BIG Hill, my legs felt STRONG, I was coaching Kim to the TOP, felt great to get there.

-I dropped my small water bottle and Kim did a killer side kick to get it out of the road.. NICE work Kim!

-Seeing Tiffany and her bright blue shirt and eyes, over and over during the race, she cruised to her first sub 2 half.

-Seeing Alma and Tressa cheering for us, I handed off my arm sleeves and wet phone at mile 5ish. My phone is trashed!

-My running skirt was weighed down with rain and kept slipping off. I was pulling it up the whole race

-Kim and I had no shortage of coversation and both of us are not fans of any sort of hills.. I wish she lived closer it was nice to go stride for stride with a tall gal.

-The water stops were well organized, this was the first Half I have run without a handheld and I LOVED it! Water stops slow me down but it was nice not to hold anything.

-I loved my pigtails but I think they made me hard to spot, I was spotted by one reader.. HI!!

-We saw Jamie ZOOMING to a PR and Kerrie not far behind.. STELLAR!! I was excited to see them at the Finish and CELEBRATE.

-The 2 hour Pacer seemed really fast and only had 1 person with her, she came in at 1:55.. Bummer :( I believe the goal for a pacer is to come within 1 minute of the goal time, but I could be wrong. It is my goal to pace a group to a sub 2 hour one of these days.

-Last year at the cone turn around I did a little dance move to show off for Kim. This year we were together...so we both showed off our GRACE as we did a super spin move around the road cone.

-I could see that we were behind pace for the Sub 2 Hour Goal, so Kim told me to set the pace. Mental math was tough, but I knew we needed to SPEED UP. Kim stayed close by as I picked off some runners.

-I turned to see how Kim was doing and gave her a thumbs up, she waved me to go on solo.. I was TORN, I didn't want to leave her, I wanted that Finish Line photo, but I also needed the sub 2 hour for ME.. So I turned on my ipod and took off.

-I was in the zone, legs strong until I hit the next hill. My mind went to places I didn't want it to go, I started to cry thinking about my Dad and how it had been a year since I had seen him. How he had never seen me cross a Finish Line in person. October 16th marks 1 year since his death, I thought about my Mom and family and the sadness we have been through.. The tears came out like the rain from the sky.

-At this point I had issues with Mommy bladder, guess I drank too much.. UGH!! Running fast and trying to hold it is NOT EASY.. It happens people, deal with it! I was thankful for my spandex shorts :)

-I had to find SOMETHING to pull me out of my sad place so I set my sites on runners in front of me. Lady in pink shorts, passed, lady with black capris, passed, lady with a smooth stride, passed... I was MOVING, I knew I had to hold the pace to make my Goal.

-The last hill came...small choppy steps.. "Come on Mel!!" I saw an older woman to the side and shortly after a tall Man, they were there to run with the pretty runner in front of me...bummer they would not see her Finish but it was neat to see their happiness.

-Past the hill and it was downhill to the Finish. Lazer focus until I saw my friends, what a welcome site... I burst forward and did a little pose as a couple runners passed me at the line. I did not wear a D-Tag because I didn't want to take a place away from another runner.. but my Garmin time was 1:58:18!! I did it! the last 2 miles were the fastest of my race.

I collected my cute (pho)gold necklace medal and waited for my buddy Kim.. She came across and looked GREAT! We talked about the last 5K and headed to the FOOD. My Fleet Feet buddies were manning the table, always nice to see friends... Not sure if Kerrie will love this, she left it all on the course. I am a PROUD Coach!! We stood around, shared stories, and got position to cheer on the last members of our Will Run for Ice Cream Team. Another FUN day!! We are already talking about next year. After the race we hit The Rock for lunch.. I got a pulled pork sandwich and coffee, YUMMERS!! And I bonded with the next Generation of Girl Runners Miss Riley.

You Go Girl makes my Dimples SHINE..

To read more about You Go Girl check out my friends Blogs, click the name to be directed, in alpha order:

Alma

Carol-Ann

Kadie

Kerrie

Kim

Stacie

Tiffany

Tressa

Loving Running

2011-09-20T16:20:00.001-07:00

T-Rex arms & mouth wide open.

I often look CRAZY!!!

I LOVE RUNNING!!!

RARE when a photo captures the JOY on the FINISH.

Early in a race is is easy to flash the dimples.

Having a friend helps keep the SMILES flying.

EVERY FINISH is Different. I cant judge the LOVE of the person in front or behind of me.

When I see you taking my picture I will SMILE!!

Every Finish Line is Different, we ALL struggle and cannot look Zen and happy every minute of a race.. But that does not mean we are not "LOVING RUNNING".

For context on the last photo (with me in the background) go to my Facebook page HERE. "Loving Running" cant always be captured with a simple photo..

You Go Girl and keep on going

2011-09-18T16:46:00.000-07:00

I did not plan to run You Go Girl Half Marathon this year, it is Muscle Man's birthday tomorrow so I asked him if I should skip it...apparently I heard wrong because this week he asked why I was not running it.. WHAT?

My good buddy Amy (who had a birthday on September 17th Happy Birthday friend) picked up her bib and gave it to me. FREE RACE! I asked Kerrie HERE if she wanted a pacer, she was ready to run her own race...so I texted Kim HERE. I have wanted to run with Kim since YGG last year!! We decided that we would shoot to run together for a sub 2 hour half. FUN!! Then the lovely Tressa HERE let me buy her team shirt, THANK YOU!! I opted for the Jess HERE inspired pigtails like Kerrie and we were READY TO RUN!!

I felt CUTE and so excited to go for a sub 2 hour. While trying to sleep the night before the race I realized that today marked the last day that I saw my Dad before he died, it was at a Birthday party for Muscle Man and Tall Nephew. This made me a bit teary during the race, I decided that I would PUSH for a sub 2 hour for ME, I NEEDED it.. If you must know how it turned out check out my Dailymile HERE or Facebook HERE.. Race Report to come Soon :) My Big Girl job is SUPER BUSY, so I will get it up soon...

Also be sure to check out Mom vs. Marathon HERE, I am a PROUD COACH today!!

HIGH FIVE Friday

2011-09-16T07:21:00.000-07:00

Welcome to HIGH FIVE Friday.. A day where I spread the Virtual HIGH FIVE for things going on in Blog Land..

Self HIGH FIVE I will now be running You Go Girl Half Marathon with Team "Will Run for IceCream" and Kim on Sunday!! I am super Excited!!!

HIGH FIVE RACING:

You Go Girl

Half Marathon
*Cheering- Adorable Wife

Me!!

Kerrie- Sub 2 hour Goal!!!

Kim

Tiffany

Carol-Ann

Karla

Stacie
Katey
Diana
Fleet Feet Kendra

10K

Jill
(so not)Super RunnerMom
Kadie & her daughter

SuperMomE12- Top of Utah Marathon (gunning for a sub 3:30)
Rachel- (FIRST) Fox Cities Marathon
Pamela- Canada Army Run Half
Becca- Air Force Half Marathon
Lisa- Air Force Half Marathon (pacing her brother to his FIRST!)
Amanda- Delta Harvest Half (and first 20 mile training run)
Melody- SavageMan Triathlon
Tahoegirl- Bridge Run 10 miler
Jess- Pumpkin Classic 10K

HIGH FIVE MILESTONES:

Jamie & her hubby- 7 mile training run for their upcoming Half Marathon.

Sarah- 22 Mile training run!! EEK!

Kristin- Longest training run yet in cold NYC, 16 miles

Running Moose- 5th 20 miler in a row!!

Rena- 10 miler after not running all week due to CRAZY schedule

HIGH FIVE CONGRATS:

Morning Runner- Got Married on 9-10-11

Jesse- 100 mile race- Check out his VIDEO HERE

Denise- Complete a 70.3 last weekend

Kate- New 5K PR and 3rd in her Age Group

Christy- 1st in Age Group and 2nd overall Female for a Sprint Triathlon

HIGH FIVE GOOD LUCK:

Michelle- Registering for Boston Marathon on Monday!

Molly- Mid-way through NYC training and having a tough time. Good luck on the 16 miler.

Barefoot Angie Bee- Planning a Barefoot Runners Meet-up

HIGH FIVE FOR A GOOD CAUSE:

Kayla- Raffle every Sunday for American Cancer Society

What do you need a HIGH FIVE for?? Leave a Comment.. My apologies if I missed anyone I was compiling the list at 10:00PM...
Please go around and spread the HIGH FIVE Love :)

HIGH FIVE It's Friday!!