tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12744303947734578642024-03-13T06:36:10.254-07:00One Step At A Time...Life is about putting one foot in front of the other and taking each day as it comes. That's how I approach running...one step at a time, each step eventually turning into a mile, one mile turning into many. My miles became a mission to save lives!MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-17695900162745796662012-07-30T10:45:00.001-07:002012-08-01T15:29:15.962-07:00Week One Completed<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Week one was a success! I dropped 5 pounds on my first weigh
in. The lady who took my weight down was surprised at how fast my first 5 came off. We all know the
first week is the most successful…doesn’t anyone watch biggest loser? LOL! It’s
the luck of week one. The numbers in the weeks to follow always tend to be much
smaller. <br /><br /><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Going in to week two was tough…it’s the darn weekend that
always presents a challenge. Friday night I’d watched the Olympic opening
ceremonies with my dad who loves his Bud Light on the weekends. I hadn’t seen
him a long time since I’d been too busy training for Vineman. I couldn’t say no
to having a drink with him and a couple slices of pizza (no cheese)...strike
one for the weekend. Strike two came the next day as our city had its annual community
festival which is host to a chili cook off. I’ve looked forward to this for
months! I love chili. Lucky for me, we had 12 miles on our training schedule
for the morning. I felt so sluggish from the night before and wanted to opt for
the 8 miles the rest of the team was doing but I had a great partner out there
with me who pushed me to do the 12. I love my TNT teammates for this. It felt
great! <br />
<br />
The weekend was not that good for me however <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remained active and went for a bike ride the
next day and spent the entire day doing laundry and cleaning (that’s gotta burn
some calories, right?). I gave myself a little room to splurge since I knew I
was going to start a slightly new plan. I’d still track my WW points but this,
I was truly stoked about… <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwQ3bNPsQnc/UBbGiT5j1nI/AAAAAAAAATk/TiZ4pfcN0co/s1600/Groceries.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwQ3bNPsQnc/UBbGiT5j1nI/AAAAAAAAATk/TiZ4pfcN0co/s320/Groceries.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-azzS8vEktxM/UBbHDcFUZSI/AAAAAAAAAUE/JmTHEgJqpi0/s1600/Lunchpail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-azzS8vEktxM/UBbHDcFUZSI/AAAAAAAAAUE/JmTHEgJqpi0/s320/Lunchpail.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was chosen to win a two week workout plan from a trainer via
Twitter. Fitness specialist, <a href="https://twitter.com/OlympicTrainer" target="_blank">Shaun Spencer</a> had posted a contest. His 1,000<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup>
follower would win a workout plan from him. A huge thanks to the person who
Tweeted this because I’d won! I was so pumped. This could not have come at a
more perfect time. I'd found out mid-week but wanted to give myself a few days
to review the workouts and nutrition plan that he’d sent. “I can do this!” I
thought. <br /><br />I geared up for his plan over the weekend by going grocery shopping
and turning my fridge into my fat-burning, healthy fueling, storage unit. From
egg whites to grapefruit, green tea and Greek yogurt, I was gearing up for a
new, more lean me. <br /><br />I even bought myself a little cooler to store my lunch…yes,
a cooler. You’d think I was packing lunch for a week! We all know the trick to
losing weight is eating small meals 6 times a day. Well, hence why I need a
whole cooler for my food. I packed my meal for Monday and could not wait to get
started. Each day begins with 300 crunches and a different workout plan. Day
one, a cardio circuit! Stay tuned for this one…week 2 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>begins! <br />
<br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-86193330556048389912012-07-25T09:45:00.001-07:002012-07-25T09:46:12.704-07:00My Next Journey...<strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Day 1</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />I woke up this morning in a panic. My stomach felt awful and my pants just were way too tight! "This is it!" I thought. All my excuses for waiting till Monday were going to be thrown out the window. "If I wait till Monday," I thought, "I'll just keep eating like crap and gain more weight!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Weight gain after competing a 70.3? YES!!! My scale had gone from the 150's to the 160's! How did this happen with all my training? Well let's just say training for all three sports added muscle (great!) while causing me to be more hungry (not so great!). I only ended up more hungry and oftentimes consuming more calories and, truth-be-told, not always the healthiest of choices on post-training meals. I also think what did it was making sure I was fueled before a training session. If I was going to ride the next day I'd eat a lot the night before and during the day before going out to ride in the evening.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />Vineman was a real eye-opener for me. I felt very uncomfortable at T1 coming out of wet clothes and onto the bike. Wet spandex and having to move fast...not cute! I tried hard to lose before the race but it became such a challenge with my eating and being in a constant state of hunger. I tend to be ravenous days after a ride or long run.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />I looked up the nearest Weight Watchers meeting that day and said, "That's it! I'm going!" I went and boy was the number on the scale bad. It was solid proof that I'd let things get out of hand. To be honest, I wasn't motivated after leaving. I couldn't stay for the meeting because of work which probably didn't help. The lack of motivation didn't come from the pounds I wanted to lose...27 to be exact for my optimum goal, 20 to feel more normal again, and just 12 to get back to my pre-training weight. My lack of motivation came from the fact that I'd been down this road so many times and have failed. Just look at the entries in my blog...two which I've written about in the past and have failed miserably. Is it embarrassing to post about this AGAIN? Yes! But the way I see it, it makes me human! I know there are people our there going through the same thing. Those who say, "This time is gonna be different." A few things I am doing differently already though is being more vocal about it. I talk openly with people to hold myself accountable. I've even shared with my co-workers and got someone to join again with me. It's a start and nice to have someone join me in the journey...here we go! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><strong>Day 3</strong></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ePnkD4YU4Mk/UBAhrDXa2qI/AAAAAAAAATE/rPt1potiRA0/s1600/Lunch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ePnkD4YU4Mk/UBAhrDXa2qI/AAAAAAAAATE/rPt1potiRA0/s320/Lunch.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm officially on day 3 now of Weight Watchers! I have to admit, I actually enjoy running to my phone or computer to track what I eat. I try to track ahead of time so I know how many points I'm going to have but i seem to know roughly what things are and point range. Guess you can say I've been here a time or two...okay three. Surprisingly I'm doing well and staying within my points and feeling very satisfied with my food. Although Weight Watchers allows you to eat whatever you want within reason based on a points system, I've chosen to stick mostly with clean meals and snacks. Salads, fruits and veggies, and lean meats. This type of eating is easy for me since I do genuinely enjoy healthy foods.</span><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ajxQEtL2fc/UBAhr-v2rBI/AAAAAAAAATM/4vg-tWNrVfo/s1600/Snack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ajxQEtL2fc/UBAhr-v2rBI/AAAAAAAAATM/4vg-tWNrVfo/s320/Snack.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">One challenge did come today though and is going to be for the remainder of my journey...healthy fueling for endurance sports. I did an intense 24 mile ride on water and two Nuun tablets (sugar-free electrolytes). I don't want to do my normal gu's and gels because they're so unnatural so of course I suffered keeping my endurance levels up. To counter this I've purchased a book called <em><a href="http://feedzonecookbook.com/" target="_blank">The Feed Zone</a></em>, recipes for endurance athletes. Most of the ingredients are clean and will more than likely help me with my fueling struggles. Now it's finding the time to make these and calculating points. It's a learning process that I will have venture through. Till next time..keep in tracking!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>Day 5...technically 6</strong></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The weekend was tough for me which I knew would be the ultimate test for me. The weekends are always hard because I always seem to have something going on. I had two events in one day...an Angel game and a birthday party. I did well on my activity though...I ran a 10K Saturday and did a short recovery run on Sunday.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />The game was great and I managed to wait until we left to eat but I did let loose and have a few beers. The drinking continued at the birthday party. I ate well until I ruined it with some Asian cracker mix and a Twizzler. I tracked every bit of it. I was proud that I didn't go overboard but disappointed that I hadn't stuck to my trying to eat clean. I can tell alcohol consumption is going to be the hardest part of this journey since I enjoy a few drinks on the weekend. I guess if I try to keep it to a minimum and put in the work at the gym I should be okay. We'll find out at weigh in. </span>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-20018791364120944222012-07-23T15:31:00.001-07:002012-07-23T15:43:29.685-07:00I'm Officially An Ironman 70.3 Finisher<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Last November I decided to go for it and <a href="http://onestepatatime-missjewels.blogspot.com/2011/11/crazy-clumsy-and-motivated.html" target="_blank">register</a> for a half Ironman. For those who have followed along, the road to this was not easy. There were several moments of self doubt, fear, and points in my training where I just wanted to give up. I remember staring at the drop deadline and contemplating giving in but a few of my friends who knew how much this meant to me encouraged me to keep going.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />Weeks leading up to this sent me in a wicked frenzy. I'd wake up in the middle of the night anxious and if I couldn't sleep, I'd go for a swim or run just to put myself at ease. One morning I even swam the entire 1.2 miles to see how I would fare on the swim for race.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />Well race day was approaching and my anxiety grew as my travel plans had been up in the air. What started out as fear of not completing the event and travel worries, ended up being the best weekend of my life and ultimately the greatest accomplishment in my "One Step At A Time Journey".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />I ended up going with a girl I'd met at Rock n Roll San Diego. She was there for the marathon and I was there for a TNT coach's training. We drove out Thursday and made out way to Santa Rosa where we were staying. She was with TNT OCIE Tri team and had planned to meet her team for a swim on the Russian River the following day. She asked me to come along and I did only to feel all my stress relieved by the beauty and calmness of the river and the positive energy from her team. The coaches were amazing and offered great support and even shared a few pointers with me.</span><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D6BKaYKJiSY/UA3QCjH3L0I/AAAAAAAAASY/G-zvHNBGzxk/s1600/OCTriTNT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D6BKaYKJiSY/UA3QCjH3L0I/AAAAAAAAASY/G-zvHNBGzxk/s320/OCTriTNT.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The next day we rode the run course and drove the bike course. Again, helping ease my race day jitters. We did the expo thing (sorry Vineman, this part needs MAJOR improvement). I went to their inspiration dinner which reminded me once again why I love TNT and am so proud to be part of it again this season.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />Saturday night we didn't sleep at all! We were so excited and nervous, by the time we knew it, it was time to get up. We got to Johnson's Beach and it was actually cold. Water was warm from the previous days but thank goodness, we were allowed our wetsuits. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I had a late wave start which gave me plenty of time to settle in although 8:22 a.m. came around rather fast. "Swim wave 11!" the announcer called. "Oh crap!!! It's time!!!!" </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />This was it...this was the moment I'd agonized over, dreamt of, feared AND looked forward to for months! This was the day I would test my mental and physical capabilities and put them through the ultimate challenge.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />The swim was great! Finished 13 minutes ahead of my estimated time. It was actually the sport I'd trained for the least because I love the water and knew I'd be okay. I'm not fast but I'm comfortable and knew a wetsuit would help not to mention that the swim was known for being easy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />I kept at a steady pace and by the time I knew it, the swim finish was there. I'll never forget that moment I popped my head out of the water and saw the swim finish. I ran to T1 and quickly got ready for my 56 miles on the bike. This is where the race had really begun for me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />I'd trained more on the bike than all three. It was my weakest of the sorts and the one I'd feared the most. With being in such a late wave, I'd had a 5 hours to complete this portion before getting kicked off the course. For most that would be easy. For me it was mentally challenging because it then only gave me so much time on the run. It's all a numbers game when you're out there.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jTnab-oz05Y/UA3PffBHbnI/AAAAAAAAASI/5MTdO6v1wxw/s1600/Bike.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jTnab-oz05Y/UA3PffBHbnI/AAAAAAAAASI/5MTdO6v1wxw/s320/Bike.bmp" width="255" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The bike was the worst part for me. Something bad happened...my lower back began and stomach began hurting by mile 5. "Shit! How am I going to do 51 more miles with this pain?!" I pushed through it and lost it half way in to the ride. Mile 28, I began to sob uncontrollably. I was sad because no one had come with me. My family had a wedding to attend and it just worked out better with me coming up with a friend. I was sad and starting to feel broken because of the back and stomach pain. I wanted to toss my bike on the side of the road and just quit! At his point people had passed me up and I was alone in the middle of beautiful vineyards. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">"GET IT TOGETHER JULIE!!!" I yelled. "Your parents did not raise a quitter!!!" And with that, I wiped the tears off my face and kept pushing through it. Miles 29 through 43 came quick and I knew mile 44 was the infamous Chalk Hill. Right before getting there I got off my bike (by accidentally falling off of it) to stretch, mentally and physically prepare for what was ahead if me. Any other day, I could have done Chalk Hill just fine but this was not a good ride day for me. I pushed and pushed and ultimately had to get off to walk a bit. I made it to the top and knew I was in the clear. It was all downhill from here. 12 miles to go!!! The last 4 miles were the hardest because I was so close yet in so much pain. 52, 53, 54, 55...almost there! I reached the dismount area, clipped out, stepped one foot on the ground.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">"DEAR GOD, YOU'RE KIDDING ME!" I thought. I'd been feeling some pain in my heels but only after running. Today, I felt it immediately stepping off the bike! WHY?! I took my time in T2, stretched out a bit and off I went. You can't walk out of the chute; it just doesn't look right. I ended up running till I could no longer see anyone. I could not believe I still had to go 13 miles! I tried to get on my 3:1 intervals since that's what I'd been doing with our marathon team all season but it was tough to stick with them. As the time passed, I just had to keep pushing and not give up. I wasn't fast at all but I did pass people in my determination to get ahead and not get swept. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">At this point, I was seeing too many people who looked fatigued. I feared that those I was passing would not make it in time. I patted one woman on the back and said, "Come on hun! We're almost half Ironwomen!" She said she didn't have it in her to run anymore, I yelled, "Well then walk faster!" and kept going. I know it's selfish, but I was mentally broken already and sought for positive energy and this woman was not very positive. By the time I knew it, I was counting down again. "4 miles to go!" I texted my family and friends. I received a ton of encouraging messages which gave me the strength to carry on. 1 mile to go!!! That last mile went by fast and there I was, two turns into the school and to the finish line.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">"And we have another Ironman 70.3 finisher, Julie Guevara of Cypress California!!!" They put the tape up, I crossed and all I could think was "I DID IT!" I heard a familiar voice call my name. It was our marathon team campaign manager. She came up to me, hugged me and I lost it again. "It was so hard Jenn!" </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">She just held me and said, "I know hun but you did it."</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I could not have been more happy to see her there. I will never forget that moment. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Thank you Jennifer Martincavage!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">And thank you to all who pushed me, inspired me, motivated me and sent me encouraging messages along the way. I did it and I have all of you to thank for the incredible support along the way. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uxAc8dZCJ78/UA3QDUNlJkI/AAAAAAAAASg/3gwBRZBYduA/s1600/Irongirls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uxAc8dZCJ78/UA3QDUNlJkI/AAAAAAAAASg/3gwBRZBYduA/s320/Irongirls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">We drove back home the next day and stopped to take some celebratory photos of course!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nxAjhtv2gJU/UA3QeUXtFGI/AAAAAAAAASo/Yn5k4ZVJ1js/s1600/jumping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nxAjhtv2gJU/UA3QeUXtFGI/AAAAAAAAASo/Yn5k4ZVJ1js/s320/jumping.jpg" width="221" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm an Ironman 70.3 finisher!!!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Feel free to check out the album recapping my entire journey <a href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150920353858391.421163.736603390&type=3&l=734a415602" target="_blank">here</a>!</span></div>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-41563817878461200022012-05-02T21:03:00.000-07:002012-05-02T21:04:36.365-07:00Conquering My Fear of Mass Rides...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dTzq2lvYfuo/T6IAYk_T2dI/AAAAAAAAARo/BSYDDWv5Ny8/s1600/Tour1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dTzq2lvYfuo/T6IAYk_T2dI/AAAAAAAAARo/BSYDDWv5Ny8/s320/Tour1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">On Sunday I embarked on one of the scariest things I’ve ever
done…a mass ride through the streets of Long Beach, San Pedro, Palos Verdes and
back to Long Beach. The ride is </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">called Tour de Cure which is a benefit ride for
the American Diabetes Association. Boy, I had no idea what I’d gotten myself
into. For starters, riding in masses freaks me out. I hate riding too close to
people for fear of falling off my bike and getting trampled over. I fear not
clipping out in time at red lights or trying to swerve away from another rider
if he/she brakes too close. Needless to say, signing up for this type of event
intimidated the hell out of me. Oh and did I mention that I signed for the 61
mile ride AND that there were hills, and by hills I mean practically mountains?
Luckily I never saw an elevation chart or I would have easily backed out but I
figured 61 miles was a perfect distance for me to gauge what my 56 miler for
Vineman 70.3 would be like. I also signed up in honor of my dad who has diabetes. He is the reason why I have the relentless ambition that I do...thank you dad! I LOVE YOU!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well in a nutshell…I hated it! Here’s what
happened:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Fell off my bike at the
start line<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Got lost going uphill for
two miles<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Spent about a mile walking
my bike up the steepest part of the ride<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Fell off AGAIN as a
cyclist pulled up too close to me giving me pointers (which I greatly
appreciated but my fear of people riding close to me kicked in) <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Freaked out again on the
downhill as I hit speeds of 27 MPH<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Called the BF in tears
from fear if the down hills which I then had to again get of my bike and
walk</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">There was some good to this though:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jzJNQYBt9IA/T6IAlufXOYI/AAAAAAAAARw/R9QN-0RDOHI/s1600/Friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jzJNQYBt9IA/T6IAlufXOYI/AAAAAAAAARw/R9QN-0RDOHI/s320/Friends.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I met some really great people…thanks Team Cyclone and Team Cypress Church. You all were so awesome and supportive<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Felt awesome once I got off my bike compared to others who were beat; I’ll have to trek 13.1 miles after my 56 mile bike ride for Vineman so this made me feel good! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I made it all 61 miles and three days later, no soreness!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Realized I STILL fear group riding and made a commitment to keep going out and tonight I did! 22 miles with a local bike shop team…I think I’m starting to get the hang of it!</span></div>
</li>
</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span></ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Lesson learned here…keep striving, don’t give up, and
remember, we all have to start our sport somewhere. To those of you out there
fearing your first marathon, triathlon, whatever…get out there and do it
because like the old saying goes, you won’t know if you try! <br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
</span></div>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-19921276837868568072012-04-03T20:27:00.007-07:002012-04-09T18:59:40.666-07:00And the Road to Vineman Begins...<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">After months of agonizing over a training program and weighing out the pros and cons of group training versus training on my own, I decided I would go with Vineman's online training program. For those who don't know what Vineman is, it's a triathlon event. There are two distances one week apart. I chose to sign up for the half Ironman distance. Why? That's a whole other <a href="http://onestepatatime-missjewels.blogspot.com/2011/11/crazy-clumsy-and-motivated.html" target="_blank">story</a>. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Well, the training plan finally landed in my inbox a few weeks ago with a start date of March 26th, just eight days after running the LA Marathon which was a MUCH better experience than last year. No rain this time, all smiles and a new PR!</span><br />
<br />
</div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Upon opening the program, my jaw dropped. Six days, no rest, ranging from 1:15 bike rides to 1200 meter swims, and a short brick consisting of a one hour ride followed by a 15 minute run all in the first week. Six days, no rest, that many meters in the pool and a brick already? Sheesh! After work social life...no more, room for a "feeling lazy pass"...no way, bf/family quality time, after training! Oh and did I mention I don't know how to clip in to a bike at this point?</span><br />
<br />
</div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I took my training plan and started seeing what I would and wouldn't be able to accomplish. My weekend was shot. I had a family and Team In Training commitment early Saturday and Sunday morning. As much as I wanted to cancel my plans, I had to learn to balance it all especially considering this was going to be the next four months of my life. I managed 4 out of 6 days of training with two swim sessions, a 15 mile bike ride, a (running) speed workout, and a short brick (16 miles on the bike followed by a two mile run). I noticed after the second time, I already felt stronger in the pool and clipping in, while I've not become an expert, I clipped in on both rides. My co-worker accompanied me on my first ride which helped me gain some confidence on the bike. We've committed to riding at least once a week and she now has regained the "cycling fever". Four falls, six bruises and one gash on my elbow later, I am determined to get stronger and stronger each day! And with that said, I need to get off my butt and go for a swim!</span></div>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-19631315580215484542011-12-29T16:16:00.000-08:002012-01-03T13:06:38.136-08:00Healthy Food Items You Need to Try in 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">A few weeks ago, I’d posted about how a some friends and I started a <a href="http://onestepatatime-missjewels.blogspot.com/2011/12/new-years-resolutions.html" target="_blank">weight loss challenge</a> and instead of resolving to lose a certain amount of weight, I would resolve to consistently try to eat better. While I’m not down a huge amount (the holidays really took a toll…I’m weak when it comes to sweets! I’m sorry!!!), I have been trying some new things in our kitchen inspired by some of my favorite bloggers and healthy lifestyle experts that I just had to share with you all.<br /><br /><strong><u>Tosca Reno's Carrot Muffins</u></strong></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uq4ilt2y5Rg/Tvzy2Lk4MqI/AAAAAAAAAPw/C6j8n5OvwKY/s1600/Muffins2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uq4ilt2y5Rg/Tvzy2Lk4MqI/AAAAAAAAAPw/C6j8n5OvwKY/s320/Muffins2.jpg" width="264" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">For Christmas, we had a cookie exchange at the office where we each had to bring in either cookies or a something sweet. Everyone was to bring 24 of each item whether it was brownies, cookies, chocolates, you name it. I figured I would bring something healthy. I relied on someone I knew could help in this situation, the lovely Tosca Reno. Shelved behind some of my Nicholas Sparks books, there she was. For those unfamiliar with <a href="http://www.toscareno.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=frontpage&Itemid=1" target="_blank">Tosca Reno</a>, she is all about <a href="http://www.eatcleandiet.com/" target="_blank">clean eating</a> which in a nutshell, is eating foods that are not processed—sticking to the basics—fruits, veggies, whole grains, pretty much anything natural. There are a lot of health benefits to this and have always wanted to try eating this way but it does get difficult sometimes. Going back the cookie exchange, I’d found something in Tosca’s book that I knew would be a hit…her <a href="http://www.toscareno.com/downloads/ZucchiniMuffins.pdf" target="_blank">zucchini muffin recipe</a>! I modified the recipe and used carrot instead but boy did they come out good! <strong>A perfect solution for your sweet cravings!</strong></span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<strong><u><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Tap'nApple Butter Spread</span></u></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bzVzQLXRZog/Tvz0tKdzgPI/AAAAAAAAAP8/zHEY-XOW88U/s1600/AppleButter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bzVzQLXRZog/Tvz0tKdzgPI/AAAAAAAAAP8/zHEY-XOW88U/s320/AppleButter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">While out grocery shopping for some more healthy alternatives, the boyfriend and I stumbled upon this FANTASTIC spread for our toast called <a href="http://www.tapnapple.com/" target="_blank">Tap'nApple</a>. I can’t tell you how much time we spend in the peanut butter and jelly aisle looking for the healthiest options. I swear if we could live off of PB&J sandwiches, we would. The problem I have with most jellies is that they’re way too high in sugar and if they don’t have sugar, they’re sweetened with artificial sweeteners such as Splenda. I love Splenda but I really want to wean away from processed sweeteners…alas the all-natural apple butter spread. <strong>A MUST try! </strong></span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<strong><u><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Food Blogs (Homemade Salad Dressing & Chiobani Greek Yogurt)</span></u></strong><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EuF3LastddE/Tvz7nAsw7YI/AAAAAAAAAQg/k7x8mbfl92g/s1600/Salad2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EuF3LastddE/Tvz7nAsw7YI/AAAAAAAAAQg/k7x8mbfl92g/s320/Salad2.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Since getting into the blogging world, I’ve come across some great blogs that I absolutely love. A couple of my favorite ones are <a href="http://theathletesplate.com/" target="_blank">The Athlete’s Plate</a> and <a href="http://www.theathletarian.com/" target="_blank">The Athletarian</a>....ironically both have the word “athlete” in them but my intention for following actually has nothing to do with their athleticism but more so the great advice and recipes they offer. My new favorite recipe is for a <a href="http://theathletesplate.com/roasted-butternut-squash-and-goat-cheese-salad/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+theathletesplate+%28The+Athlete%27s+Plate%29" target="_blank">butternut squash salad</a> courtesy of The Athlete's Plate. I’m so hooked to the salad dressing! Again, salad dressing is another condiment I spend much of my time contemplating when at the grocery store. I needn’t search any further. Most salad dressings are either too high in fat content, sugar or made with things I can’t even pronounce. This one only requires four and a dash of salt and pepper. <strong>Try it out! </strong><br />In addition to this recipe, I was also convinced via <a href="http://www.theathletarian.com/page/5/" target="_blank">The Athletarian</a> to give <a href="http://shepherds-gift.chobani.com/shine-a-little-light.php" target="_blank">Chiobani Greek Yogurt</a> a try. I'd always been concerned about the sugar content (again) but there is a huge difference between natural sugars found in fruit and processed sugars. I'm horrible at remembering this because the word sugar often scares me. The one pictured is blueberry but I highly recommend pineapple...mmmm, mmmm, mmm!</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KaDD3U6JyD0/Tvz7sCdY2eI/AAAAAAAAAQs/SN7HpUR0_E8/s1600/Chiobani.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KaDD3U6JyD0/Tvz7sCdY2eI/AAAAAAAAAQs/SN7HpUR0_E8/s320/Chiobani.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">And lastly, I know I promised no New Year’s Resolutions BUT I couldn’t help but push myself toward a <strong><span style="font-size: large;">SMALL goal…run 500 miles in 2012</span></strong>. It’s an average of almost 10 miles a week. It’s not much but I do have my weeks that I tend to slack off and think this would be a good little incentive for me to get out there. Wishing you all and safe and wonderful New Year…make it your best year ever! </span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<img height="72" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KaDD3U6JyD0/Tvz7sCdY2eI/AAAAAAAAAQs/SN7HpUR0_E8/s320/Chiobani.jpg" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 34px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 1490px; visibility: hidden;" width="96" />MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-61930934831573322572011-12-19T17:21:00.000-08:002011-12-19T17:26:55.736-08:00My First Triathlon!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><em>I want to preface this post by apologizing for how long it is...I'm still really excited about this experience. You never forget your first:</em><br /><br />In 2010, I did my first half marathon, 2011 my first full and told myself that in 2012, I would do my first triathlon. Well, I completed my goal just a few weeks before the New Year and I feel GREAT! A couple months ago, I'd met Ironman Brain Boyle. If you haven't heard his story, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65ugopJ5S4A&feature=youtu.be"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">check it out</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">! He was such an inspiration and the reason I ultimately decided to stop saying I would <em>do</em> a triathlon and actually sign up for one! On my 29th birthday, I registered for Vineman 70.3. Yikes! It was a crazy move considering I'd never done one. Knowing that I had to get a few under my belt, my friend Deb convinced me to do the Beach Blast Triathlon. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />The event was </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rocket-Racing-Productions/116970081743006?sk=wall"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Rocket Racing Production's</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> first triathlon. We decided on this one because it was local and great for the price. Rocket Racing capped the entries at about 75 participants so I thought it would be perfect for a first. I was a little bummed because it nothing like the marathon glory I was used to. No tech tee, no expo, and no medal. I went for it anyway knowing that it would be a good crash course in what a triathlon was like. My goal was simply to finish...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />I followed one of the training programs from a book that had been recommended to me,</span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Week-Triathlete-2nd-Revised-Updated/dp/159233458X"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> "The 12-Week Triathlete".</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> Great book for anyone who's ever wanted to do a triathlon. I'll admit, the Thanksgiving holiday derailed my training a bit and the laziness continued on into December. I still swam, ran, and biked but I wasn't as consistent with my brick training as I should have been. I felt so unprepared physically, yet mentally ready...I even waited till the last minute (the day before the event) to even try on a wetsuit which was quite an experience. I rented the suit, came home, got my transition bags ready, and went out for a few drinks. Yes, guilty as charged! I had a glass of wine and a beer with dinner but like a good girl, called it a night early. I still couldn't sleep though. I can't say it was nerves because I felt confident in my ability to complete the event at this distance. I finally fell asleep at 3:30 a.m. only to have to be up a couple hours later. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GQMAMAVxR7E/Tu-zr937R3I/AAAAAAAAAOc/A77FoxIidXg/s1600/JulieWetsuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" oda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GQMAMAVxR7E/Tu-zr937R3I/AAAAAAAAAOc/A77FoxIidXg/s320/JulieWetsuit.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Next thing I knew, it was time to wake up. I grabbed my gear and off I went. I can't tell you how grateful I was to have Deb there. For some reason I couldn't get my front tire back on but she showed up and saved the day. We made our way to check in and set up our transition area. Once we were all checked in, the event coordinators explained the course to us; because it was a small event, the streets weren't closed off and there wasn't any signage. (A bit of advice, if you ever participate in a small event like this, PAY ATTENTION about the course). </span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J7XidCadCMc/Tu-zwDIhieI/AAAAAAAAAOs/SHtvcBX5WU4/s1600/TransitionArea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" oda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J7XidCadCMc/Tu-zwDIhieI/AAAAAAAAAOs/SHtvcBX5WU4/s320/TransitionArea.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We made our way to the swim area and walked along the water to get used to the temperature. Not too bad for being December. I can honestly say, the water did not scare me at all. I credit this to being taught how to swim by getting thrown into a pool at a young age (thanks mom).</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The coordinators made sure we were all ready, I heard "GO!" and off we went. One arm in front of the other, kick, breathe, swallow some salt water and just keep moving forward. I kept at a steady pace alongside Deb but eventually she was a bit faster than me and I lost her. I kept looking for her but my eyes were more focused on the finish than findind her red swim cap. I got out of the water and started running to the next transition. As I was running, an officer who had been making sure we were safe crossing the street told me, "You're the second girl I've seen! Good job!!!" Come to find out, Deb was first, I was second and after us there were only about 3 or 4 other women participating out of 70 plus people. Pretty cool! </span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SRzIJQqEHXM/Tu-zuC2QZHI/AAAAAAAAAOk/gP9kChHQ7Yk/s1600/Julieriding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SRzIJQqEHXM/Tu-zuC2QZHI/AAAAAAAAAOk/gP9kChHQ7Yk/s320/Julieriding.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /><br />I slipped right out of my suit (much easier to get out of than to put on) and threw on my long sleeve, shoes, and my helmet. I was in such a rush, I forgot a few things like my sunglasses (not good because of debris on the road). Oh well. I kept going. I was worried about how I would feel in wet clothes but once you're on the bike, you just ride and don't think about anything but getting out there. Within the first mile, there was a pretty steep hill..."Be strong," I kept telling myself. I remembered a tweet from </span><a href="https://twitter.com/#!/exmetal13"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Exmetal13 </span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">: <em>@MissJewels212 be strong..no fear....and know...you will do it.</em> I got past the hill and kept riding. The bike part was great except for the fact that my feet and other parts of my body were numb from the cold. I got passed up by a few people but never once did I feel intimidated. I just kept pedaling along. At one point a couple people caught up to me and asked if I knew how to get back. I figured the same way we came but I honestly did not pay attention when we were being told where to go. Some chose to follow me and others went their own way.<br /><br />I made it back, took off my helmet and threw on my cap. This is it...3 miles and you're done. Running 3 miles has never been an issue for me. I can usually do 3 miles in about 28 minutes...not today. I felt myself running really slow but I didn't care. It was my first time doing this and I didn't want to burn out. Come to find out, the distance was off (we recieved an apology from Rocket Racing; we'd done 4 miles in total). One of the guys I'd seen on the bike course who had asked me how to get back, passed me and said great job! It felt nice to hear that since there weren't volunteers, water stations or people cheering like in a normal event. I then saw Deb which again was great encouragement. I finally hit the turnaround and knew this was it...the last mile and a half (or in this case 2). I was still slow but again, I didn't want to clonk out. With my lower back begining to hurt a bit, I refused to walk at any point! Push through it Julie! As I neared the end, I picked up the pace. I could hear Deb saying "Go Julie!" I looked up and saw her but then I also saw something else that put a HUGE smile on my face...at the finish was one of the event coordinators holding up a medal! Although it was a cheesy one, I was so happy because I wasn't even expecting it. I collected my medal and hugged Deb. It wasn't the finish I was used to with tons of spectators. I didn't cry like I usually do after a race; in all honesty, it felt more like a workout than an event but it really was a great practice for me. I never felt intimidated or scared. I just kept going knowing that every step I went pushed me closer to the finish and that one day I would be in Sonoma participating in Vineman. I loved this event for the fact that it was intimate, local, and the coordinators were so helpful. Thanks Rocket Racing for a great first time...both yours and mine!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C2Rdfksls_4/Tu_gRLnndMI/AAAAAAAAAO0/tdwMtJ0eWQ0/s1600/Celebrate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" oda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C2Rdfksls_4/Tu_gRLnndMI/AAAAAAAAAO0/tdwMtJ0eWQ0/s320/Celebrate.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Deb and I grabbed our gear and went off to celebrate our victory with some champagne and a yummy breakfast. A huge thanks to my friend for this moment and to our significant others for coming out with us after the race for support. I also want to thank all of you on Twitter for the well wishes. I sent a tweet at 5:30 a.m. about heading out to my first triathlon and many of you responded to wish me luck! Again, thank you! <br /><br />Stay tuned for my triathlon lessons learned...</span>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-35532583860839463542011-12-15T10:41:00.000-08:002011-12-15T13:44:02.979-08:00New Year's Resolutions<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If I had a nickel for every time I said I was going to start diet, I swear I'd be rich. You’ll actually notice a few of my <a href="http://onestepatatime-missjewels.blogspot.com/2011/02/here-we-go-again.html">earlier posts</a> where I talk about my millionth attempt to drop a few pounds. As much as I hate to admit it, the truth of the matter is that I've struggled with my weight ever since I was about 10 years-old. I’ve never been <strong>extremely</strong> overweight; at my all-time high I weighed 180 pounds (I was only 5' 4" at the time so I was pretty heavy). Sadly, this was when I was about 13-yeards-old. It wasn’t until my freshman year of high school that I finally decided to do something. I started playing sports and became more conscientious of what I ate. I was able to lose 40 pounds but all of that came at a price. I then became obsessive, weighing myself almost every single day up to 2 to 3 times a day. If I even gained 1 pound, I would get so down on myself that I promised I would lose 2 the next. Over the years it's been a constant struggle. I eventually learned that this wasn't healthy, and finally began to accept my body. I've become a little less stringent, weighing myself now about once a week. I’ve found joy in exercise, no longer seeing it as a weight loss method but more just something I do for fun. Yes, running is fun to me!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As much as I love to be active, I admit that my eating habits aren't always the best. I don't know what it is about me, but the minute you put something sweet in front of me I'll either resist the temptation or fall right off the deep end and eat way more than I should. I’m the all-in or all out type of person which has caused nothing but a series of weight fluctuations over the years ranging between 10 and 15 pounds. Again, not health either.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U8dt1WnBR6I/Tuo9YcRcT-I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/KA35_fXWO4s/s1600/JulieAge7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" oda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U8dt1WnBR6I/Tuo9YcRcT-I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/KA35_fXWO4s/s320/JulieAge7.jpg" width="157" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Before the chubiness kicked in. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sorry, but I dare not share photos of my teenage years.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">To this day, there’s still that little chubby girl inside of me that stresses out. I don’t consider myself overweight, but I know I could definitely afford to lose a good 10 pounds. Some friends say I'm too hard on myself, but I guess it's because I know I have the potential to do better. If I followed my runs with consistent healthy eating or treating myself to something sweet <strong>in moderation</strong>, I know I would feel so much better. </span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As we approach the New Year, many of us will resolve to eat healthier, workout more, or lose a few pounds. Last year, I resolved to quit smoking which went over very well. Yay for me! Well this year, I started mine a bit early. As of last Saturday a few friends and I decided to challenge each other on a little weight loss competition. I'm not looking to drop a lot of weight. We’re actually basing the winner off of percentage so my 10 or 15 pounds that I hope to lose will get me a fairly good number overall. </span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My motivation and outlook this time are different. For starters, the boyfriend has agreed to participate in the competition. I've mentioned in a <a href="http://onestepatatime-missjewels.blogspot.com/2011/07/that-four-letter-word-called-love.html">previous post</a> how we both felt like we've gained a little since we started dating almost three years ago. Another huge motivator for me is my half Ironman next year. Triathlon gear is just not attractive! Let me just say, for anyone who has done a tri, you know exactly what I'm talking about. Triathlon gear is usually very tightfitting and when you're out there on the course (especially since my event is right in the middle of summer), you want to wear the least amount of clothing as possible and still be comfortable. I don't mean that you want to go out on the course practically naked, but you want to avoid having to switch clothing or layer up on top of what you're already wearing during the transition.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />Let me just say again, if I had a nickel for every time I said this. So here's to the New Year and starting it off right! What are your resolutions for 2012?</span>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-46064235848289088482011-11-17T11:07:00.000-08:002011-11-17T11:25:42.236-08:00Liar, Liar!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I don’t know about you but whenever I know there’s a work function or some social event I have to attend during the week, I panic. All I can think is, “dang, there goes my work out!” or “I hope there’s something healthy for me to eat!” Sure I could switch my work out to the morning and just try my best to eat before the event to avoid the inevitable, “I’m starving but that food is so bad for me”, but I just do so much better working out at night and sometimes resisting the temptation to eat something unhealthy at these events isn’t easy! Last night I had to resist pasta, brownies, carrot cake, wine, beer, garlic bread, nachos, and did I say brownies!? I succeeded but it wasn’t easy!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I feel guilty, but I must also confess that sometimes I lie to friends and tell them I’m working late or just staying in to avoid hearing the, “You’re not coming because you have to work out?” I know! It sounds awful but it’s the truth especially when you’re in training mode. Or how about if there's a race you want to do but there's a birthday or a wedding? Really?!? LOL! I know sounds even worse to say that. <br /><br />I missed the gym twice this week due to work and traffic (traffic made me late to spin so I felt discouraged and went home), again my fault—could have switched it up to the morning. Not working out for two days has put me in a funk! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />Does missing a work out put you in a funk? Do you ever have to lie or feel guilty for missing events because you prefer to go for a run/gym? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-65445050991476205942011-11-09T18:07:00.000-08:002011-11-10T17:07:57.329-08:00Back With Team in Training<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I've been asked to come back as a fundraising captain for the Long Beach marathon team to help participants reach their fundraising goal. I could not be more happy excited to for this opportunity because it gives me a chance to give back to an organization that literally changed my life. Because of Team in Training, I am now the girl who LOVES running half marathons! I am the girl who no longer reaches for a cigarette after work and reaches for her gym bag instead. I am the girl who is out to help beat cancer. Today, I am part of something bigger and greater than myself and I have TNT to thank for that.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">With the start of each season, TNT has a kick off event where all the LA chapter teams come together and meet their new teammates. It's a chance for the participants to meet their coaches and leadership. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Our season kick off event was last weekend. It was great to meet our new team for the season and also see some familiar TNT faces. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">A huge surpirse for me was meeting Virgina! In my </span><a href="http://onestepatatime-missjewels.blogspot.com/2010/09/i-did-it.html"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Disneyland Half recap</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> (first half marathon with TNT), I saw her sign at mile 7, "THANK YOU TNT, LEUKEMIA SURVIVOR." I went up to her, shared my story and gave her a HUGE hug. She told me that it was the Leukemia and Lymphona Society that funded a research study she was involved in several years ago. That study helped produced what we now know today as Gleevec, which ultimately saved her life and why she is here today. Thank you Virgina for sharing your story. It is people like you that continue to insprire me to help beat cancer!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I've taken that inspiration and am sincerely considering joining the OC Tri Team (because it's closer to work) to train for Vineman. We'll see...till next time!</span>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-58315559114810557762011-11-02T13:01:00.000-07:002011-11-03T16:40:49.577-07:00Crazy, Clumsy, Yet Motivated<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I’m still in shock about what I did yesterday. I turned 29 and as a gift, I asked my parents to help me with registration for the <a href="http://www.vineman.com/Ironman_70_3_Vineman.htm"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Ironman 70.3 Vineman Triathlon</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">next year in Sonoma County. What's a 70.3 you might ask? You start with a 1.2 mile swim, transition to a 56 mile bike ride, and end with a half marathon (13.1 miles). I know...CRAZY!</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /><br />Registration just so happened to open at 9 a.m. on November 1<sup>st</sup>…my big day! With great anticipation, I woke up at 8 a.m. got online and waited till it officially opened. Sure enough, I did it! </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /><br />It’s now 24 hours later and I am going through the “WHAT THE HELL DID I GET MYSELF INTO?” mode. After I registered, I went to </span><a href="http://jaxbicycles.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Jax</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> my new favorite bike shop to pick up my Lexa…the bike I plan to use for training and my event. For those of you in So Cal, Jax is a great place to shop for a bike. The general manager, Chris at the Huntington Beach store is a triathlete himself so he was great at helping me choose the right bike. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gFr3T2WhdOg/TrGcN44X2jI/AAAAAAAAAM0/H1QbIF_LCjU/s1600/Lexa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="298" ida="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gFr3T2WhdOg/TrGcN44X2jI/AAAAAAAAAM0/H1QbIF_LCjU/s400/Lexa.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Trek Lexa SL or as I call her, Lexa </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I shared with Chris some of my fears about the triathlon…one being the distance, second being my fear of falling off the bike. Sad to say, it didn’t take very long for that to happen…walked out the door with Lexa, decided to ride her to the car, and baaam! </span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Vdzy_FC6ms/TrGiXA8jH1I/AAAAAAAAAN0/Ciw9blouGBY/s1600/Knee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Vdzy_FC6ms/TrGiXA8jH1I/AAAAAAAAAN0/Ciw9blouGBY/s320/Knee.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">My first bike injury</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I couldn’t seem to get my foot out of the pedal and right . The knee looks worse than it was but it did hurt on impact. Truth is, this is the part of the triathlon that I’m fearing the most but I hope to get more comfortable as I go. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We took Lexa home and I wanted to just put her in the garage and call it a day. My boyfriend stopped me, gave me a hug and said, “Come on babe, it’s just gonna take time.” Well, at first he said, “You didn’t spend all that money to not ride it!” So we did just that…we spent the rest of the afternoon riding our bikes (he has a beach cruiser) and having fish tacos at our favorite local spot. During dinner, we couldn’t help but laugh at my clumsiness. We ended the night with a little slice of chocolate cake to celebrate. It looks like that was all I needed to make me feel better.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1WbQSJBoFKw/TrGhdM3Lp8I/AAAAAAAAANs/QCtTAMtHzK0/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1WbQSJBoFKw/TrGhdM3Lp8I/AAAAAAAAANs/QCtTAMtHzK0/s320/photo.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hey...don't judge! It was my birthday!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So the real question is WHY? Why did I decide to do this? Two words…</span><a href="https://twitter.com/#!/brianjboyle"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Brian Boyle</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">. I had the amazing opportunity to meet Brian at a conference I went to a few weeks ago. </span><a href="http://youtu.be/65ugopJ5S4A"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">His story</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> touched my heart! I always said I wanted to do a triathlon but meeting him and reading his book, Iron Heart, changed me. It taught me to cherish my family and to challenge myself to the fullest because you never really know who you are and what you have until it's almost gone. He is truly an inspiration. Thank you for sharing you story Brian. I'm not going for a full, but I'm certainly going to "tri" a half. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">What’s your motivation?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-2309903498651868842011-10-15T14:43:00.000-07:002011-10-17T14:34:40.969-07:00The Finish Line Photo<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I remember reading a <a href="http://muddyrunner.blogspot.com/2011/01/stick-finish.html">post</a> from a running buddy I follow on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/RunnerLuis">@RunnerLuis</a>, about that very crucial point in every marathon...the finish line photo. I kid you not, I remembered his post as I neared the finish line at Long Beach--"Smile, look happy, don't look at your watch...look happy, smile, forget about the time!" I had to keep reminding myself that the results would be posted online and that clearing a finish line would be a happy moment. Most runners can relate to this...try not to look like you're so tired you want to cry. Alas, a decent finish line photo. Thanks <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/RunnerLuis">@RunnerLuis</a>! </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N4umhkXEuO0/Tpn7TGBzyiI/AAAAAAAAALo/CtuWct-96Yk/s1600/LongBeacHalf2011Finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N4umhkXEuO0/Tpn7TGBzyiI/AAAAAAAAALo/CtuWct-96Yk/s400/LongBeacHalf2011Finish.jpg" width="232" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Photo finish #1...smile, don't look at your watch, look happy!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GJX0hYazLMM/Tpn7X9-klyI/AAAAAAAAAL4/iteY0v7AT_8/s1600/LongBeachHalf2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GJX0hYazLMM/Tpn7X9-klyI/AAAAAAAAAL4/iteY0v7AT_8/s400/LongBeachHalf2.jpg" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Photo finish #2. I DID IT! Thank God!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wy7qNxDF9DA/Tpn7Tc0KXiI/AAAAAAAAALw/5gh8IUCGs28/s1600/LongBeacHalf2011FinishwMedal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wy7qNxDF9DA/Tpn7Tc0KXiI/AAAAAAAAALw/5gh8IUCGs28/s400/LongBeacHalf2011FinishwMedal.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This one's always my favorite. You've had a chance to catch your breath a bit, relish in your glory and say cheese!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
<br /></div>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-49536664768281658372011-10-10T20:16:00.000-07:002011-10-15T14:24:26.554-07:00I Left My Heart In Long Beach<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">This was my second year running the Long Beach Half Marathon and I must say it tops the chart on my list of favorite races. My time wasn't all that great. As a matter of fact, it was my second worst time ever. I'd set out to do Long Beach for several reasons. Last year, I'd let the hill at mile three defeat me. It not only challenged me physically, but mentally it broke me down and I was discouraged to finish. I wanted to walk off the course and just go home. The last ten miles were just awful. I swore I was going to come back this year and beat my time. I beat it by 6 minutes (in my defense I had to stop for a potty break or my time would have been better--too much coffee before the race and too many people in line before the start). Part of me was determined to challenge mile three again but the real reason I signed up, and the reason that will keep me coming back every year is my love for the city. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t3LSEJl9fqo/TpOtvt-az7I/AAAAAAAAAKw/SqpeGS4V8CY/s1600/LBHalf2011%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t3LSEJl9fqo/TpOtvt-az7I/AAAAAAAAAKw/SqpeGS4V8CY/s320/LBHalf2011%25282%2529.JPG" width="238" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The medal itself represents the historic parts of the city</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Long Beach has so much history for me. It's where my passion for running grew and also where I studied in college for so many years. As a Cal State Long Beach alum, the streets of the city have so many memories. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Ocean Avenue was where my best friend rented her first apartment. It's where I hung out in between classes or unwinded after a long day at school. It's where I had my first Smirnoff Ice and realized I was a lightweight with the booze. LOL! </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I remember when the Pike was first built. At the time I was a writer for the magazine at school and covered its development in a very beautiful piece that talked about the history and what it meant to the residents who visited the original Pike. I wrote so many stories about that city and people in it. It was a good ride at that school...</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">So, so many memories. You don't forget your college years, the lessons you learned along the way and the people that helped shape your life to mold you into the person you are today. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Years after graduation I would come back to the very same city to join the Long Beach area Team In Training. A marathon was always on my bucket list but when my cousin Sam was diagnosed with Hodgkins, I knew this was no longer something to check off my list but something I wanted to do in her honor. I never imagined that I would become so passionate about the sport, that I would continue on after my first one. Sam is cancer-free but I never forget the journey that brought me here.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SbsDJrlEgV8/TpOtwXzRdfI/AAAAAAAAAK4/cKtTSNzD798/s1600/LBHalf2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SbsDJrlEgV8/TpOtwXzRdfI/AAAAAAAAAK4/cKtTSNzD798/s320/LBHalf2011.JPG" width="224" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Proudly sporting my Long Beach gear and my medal of course</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Needless to say, Long Beach is like my second home and running through the city is like taking a stroll down memory lane only this stroll is a little bit harder on the body. Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/RunRacing">@runracing</a> for such a great marathon. A <span style="font-size: large;"><b>big thank</b></span> <b><span style="font-size: large;">you</span></b> to all the volunteers for being out there handing us water or snacks (my favorite were the Boy Scouts with <a href="http://www.clifbar.com/food/products_shot_bloks/">Clif Shot Bloks</a>) and those of you who were out there to support. I heard a few "Go Jewels" as I ran by the crowds...I will never get to say this to those people but <span style="font-size: large;"><b>THANK YOU </b></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">for taking the time to be there...it's those of you on the course that really keep us going when we feel like we can't make it another mile. Maybe one of these days I'll muster up the courage to do the full and run through my old Alma Matter. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
My marathon fire was definitely ignited once again. It had been way too long since my last. Till the next one...</div>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-91154196751850224492011-07-25T18:39:00.000-07:002011-07-26T10:00:34.770-07:00That Four Letter Word Called Love<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">There’s this adorable picture that sits on the fridge in our apartment which serves as a constant reminder of how much thinner I used to be. It’s a photo taken at Disneyland hours after running my first half marathon. Perhaps it was that I’d burned off so many calories during the run that I’d looked thinner but the reality was that I’d put on a few pounds. What happened? A sweet four letter word called LOVE. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t4Akx1vFFEo/Ti4Ycz13Z1I/AAAAAAAAAKg/h7I7iGgPkiY/s1600/shaunnidisney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t4Akx1vFFEo/Ti4Ycz13Z1I/AAAAAAAAAKg/h7I7iGgPkiY/s320/shaunnidisney.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>Teacups at Disneyland after the Disneyland Half Marathon, September 2010</em></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Okay, I can’t completely blame my significant other. He supports me running marathons and doesn't get mad when we go out to eat and I take five minutes to tell the waitress/er how I want everything on the side. I will say though that the common denominator to many people’s weight gain is the feeling of complacency in a relationship. I vowed never to be the type of woman who let herself go and I’m not saying that I have. I still dress up when we go out but instead of just ordering a salad like I used to, I’ll have a salad and dessert. These little bouts of splurging tend to add up most on the scale.</span> <br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I shared my unhappiness about this with my boyfriend who also said he’d been feeling a bit disappointed in himself. We both admitted that we’ve splurged a bit more since we'd been together. In his defense, his work schedule changed and if I don’t cook something at home, he’s subjected to late night fast-food. I really have no defense other than that I’d developed the “I run therefore I can eat,” mentality that I’ve mentioned here before. It's a viscious cycle..we have a bad habit of getting motivated to work out and eat right but aren’t consistent. We revealed to each other how much we’d weighed when we first met and how much we weigh now. It wasn’t pretty. Between the both of us, we were pushing a combined total of almost 40 pounds gained. We talked about what we could do together and our biggest challenges are our schedules and going out with friends.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So as of today, we’ve agreed to join 24 Hour Fitness and do a better job of being more mindful of what we eat. I've been a loyal LA Fitness member for many years but I made the switch to accommodate his schedule and sacrifice a little bit of sleep for us to work out after he gets home from work. We’ve been down this road before so I am skeptical but my plan is to set little goals for ourselves along the way to keep us motivated. My first goal is hitting my next weight range and rewarding myself with a Garmin which I’ve always wanted. So let’s hope my next post is me talking about my Garmin or if not that just yet, our progress along the way. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-70710792979201081122011-05-26T19:35:00.000-07:002011-05-26T19:45:19.404-07:00Where the Heck Have I Been?<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Many have asked if I fell of the face of the earth or just given up on Twitter and the running world completely. No, no, and no. As most of my readers know, I started running because of an amazing organization called <a href="http://www.teamintraining.org//">Team In Training</a>. Through Team In Training, I discovered so many things about myself. For starters, I unleashed the marathon maniac that I never knew I had within. Me, running 13.1 miles? I never in a million years would have pictured myself a runner! Before marathon life I used to<strong> (BRACE YOURSELF FOR THIS ONE)</strong> smoke every single day. A cigarette after work and a few on the weekends was quite common. I must admit that I did smoke well into my season with Team In Training but the more and more I started learning about cancer, it not only drove me to quit, but it also helped me discover an even greater passion than running…I wanted to be part of the cure!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I wanted to do everything I could to help put an end to cancer. I threw myself into Team In Training, embarked on a mission to raise money, and finished my season raising more than $2,500! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…this would never have happened without the many people who supported me on this. From my co-workers Alicia and Freddy who told me that I could not give up and the countless people who donated or helped in one of my fundraising efforts. Every little bit brought me closer to my goal and essentially unlocking this passion to help others that always existed but came full circle through Team In Training.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As the months passed, I knew this was my calling in life. And then one day, I came home and my wonderful boyfriend said, “Look what I found.” And there it was--</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">a job opening at Susan G. Komen for the Cure in Orange County. I didn’t apply.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Why? I wasn’t sure I had it in me to be a “manager”…to lead others in believing the cause. I myself believed in it but how could I convince others? To spare the long details, it took me two months to apply and I was the one they called back to offer the job. I was faced with so many decisions…leave an agency that had been so good to me for almost six years or jump to the non-profit side and have the chance to do something I’m passionate about. As hard as it was, with tears in my eyes, I told my boss that I was taking the position. Was I scared? Absolutely! I remember someone told me, “Lead with your heart, and the rest will fall into place.” Those words gave me the courage and the confidence that I needed to start my position as the Marketing and Communications Manager for the <a href="http://www.komenoc.org/">Orange County Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure</a>.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8p4TK3Tcnkc/Td8N4ob6gCI/AAAAAAAAAJk/0O7293DB-Vo/s1600/KomenLA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="326" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8p4TK3Tcnkc/Td8N4ob6gCI/AAAAAAAAAJk/0O7293DB-Vo/s400/KomenLA.jpg" t8="true" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Los Angeles Race for the Cure, March 2011</strong></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So that’s where I’ve been and that’s why I’ve gone missing for the last two months. The learning curve in addition to working on one of our Affiliate's biggest events of the year, Pink Tie Ball, are what have kept me away. I dove right in working on materials and night-of presentation logistics for the Ball which is an annual fundraiser we host where we identify seven men in the community to help raise awareness about breast cancer in the community.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As the work piled on, I started neglecting my running a bit. And I just moved which only added to the craziness of my life. Ironically though, I moved right near a running track in the city of Cypress and just discovered that the city hosts its own 5 and 10K in July. So I’ve signed up which is just what I needed to kick-start my running again. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Although I’ve been insanely busy with my new job and the move, by no means would I trade the experiences in for anything. We raised thousands of dollars at our Pink Tie Ball and are full swing ahead onto our next event which is our <a href="http://www.komenoc.org/race">20th Annual Race for the Cure</a>! It’s all hard work but I am so proud to be a part of this great team. They are all so passionate at what they do and I can honestly say I feel at home in my new role. I am helping save lives each and every day which is what this blog has been about since day one. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-48914181035221315842011-03-14T12:31:00.000-07:002011-03-14T13:51:45.481-07:00Brooks Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">A special thanks to <a href="http://www.brooksrunning.com/">Brooks</a> for providing me with some apparel to giveaway to one lucky winner. I've recently become a big fan of their gear and hope you will become one too if you're not already! </span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fZYa1waDQqE/TX5p7-EjrcI/AAAAAAAAAJU/fBK0FvWrnTI/s1600/BRcer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" q6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fZYa1waDQqE/TX5p7-EjrcI/AAAAAAAAAJU/fBK0FvWrnTI/s200/BRcer.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brooksrunning.com/Versatile-EZ-Racer-Back/220343468.030,default,pd.html?start=22&cgid=womens-apparel-tops" title="Versatile EZ Racer Back"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Versatile EZ Racer Back</span> </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-w53rFKELEcU/TX5p-jhL6SI/AAAAAAAAAJY/LZIFkVcRhjo/s1600/Short.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" q6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-w53rFKELEcU/TX5p-jhL6SI/AAAAAAAAAJY/LZIFkVcRhjo/s200/Short.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brooksrunning.com/Epiphany-Stretch-Short-II/220265971.025,default,pd.html?start=7&cgid=womens-apparel-shorts" title="Epiphany Stretch Short II"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Epiphany Stretch Short II</span> </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>To enter the giveaway you will need to do the following:</strong></span></div>
<ol style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Leave comment on the question in the </span><a href="http://onestepatatime-missjewels.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">previous post</span></a> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">and</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> indicate that you want to enter</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Become a fan of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/brooksrunning">Brooks on Facebook</a></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Follow </span><a href="http://twitter.com/#!/brooksrunning"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">@BrooksRunning</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> and </span><a href="http://twitter.com/#!/MissJewels212"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">me </span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">on Twitter (If you don't already)</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Follow my blog </span></li>
</ol>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Please note, the items </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">are both a size large. I am not sure if they can be exchanged if they're not your size as a receipt was not provided but you can try :) Winner will be selected on Friday, March 18th.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Thanks for stopping by! </span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-19847165666088945182011-03-11T11:47:00.000-08:002011-03-14T15:46:46.723-07:00Hello Brooks Running Shoes<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I’ll never forget a phrase I heard when I started marathon training last year: “Don't be tied to a brand.” I heard this during a shoe clinic Team in Training provided for participants during my first season with them. At the time, I was quite new to the sport and Nike was the only brand I’d ever known. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Truth be told, I have been a very loyal Nike fan for many years and scoffed at the idea of mismatching my gear. As I got further into my training, I started to become more exposed to different brands and suddenly realized why we advised not to stick to just one. What I found was that not one brand fit my every need. While I preferred to stick to one brand when putting on an outfit, I found that I just felt more comfortable in one brand for different things. I like the way Nike pants feel on me, Champion shorts give my legs the right amount of coverage, Brooks Running shirts are more flattering on me than other brands, and to this day have found that I run my best races sticking to my black Nike hat. As much as I hated wearing all sorts of different logos at one, it’s just something I had to learn to understand.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I’ve slowly started to open myself to trying different labels. In a <a href="http://onestepatatime-missjewels.blogspot.com/2010/12/yes-im-girl-wearing-highlighter-yellow.html">previous post</a> I talked about how much I love <a href="http://www.brooksrunning.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-BrooksRunning-Site/default/Search-Show?q=nightlife">Brooks reflective gear</a>. It’s light; it’s stylish and just seems to have more reflective selections than other brands. So I decided I would give their shoes a try. Hello <a href="http://www.brooksrunning.com/Brooks-Glycerin-8-Womens-Running-Shoe/1200681B434.080,default,pd.html?start=4&cgid=womens-runningshoes-neutral">Glycerin 8 DNA’s</a>, you make me feel like I am walking on a patch of puffy clouds on beautiful spring day. Yes, I just compared my new Brooks shoes to walking on a patch of puffy clouds. They feel fantastic. </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/--vMF4kX_CZQ/TX5gA1If2FI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/RSy7H-tV-v8/s1600/BrooksShoes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" q6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/--vMF4kX_CZQ/TX5gA1If2FI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/RSy7H-tV-v8/s320/BrooksShoes.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Brooks Glycerin 8 Women's Shoe</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The shoe features Brooks custom cushioning called <a href="http://www.brooksrunning.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-BrooksRunning-Site/default/Technology-Content?cid=brooks_dna">DNA</a> which changes with your individual stride. The pad in the shoe responds to the amount of force you put on it delivering a specific amount of cushioning based on your step, weight, pace, and environment. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I figured I would break them in on our last team run before the <a href="http://www.lamarathon.com/">LA Marathon</a>. They felt fantastic! I have flat feet and sometimes feel too much support when I buy anything labeled "motion control" or "stability" however, this shoe has just the right amount for me even though they're listed under the "neutral" section. I wore them with my Nike pants…yes, perhaps a fashion faux pas but it's marathon training not fashion where you sacrifice comfort just to look good.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">What are your thoughts on wearing different brands during a run? Do you mismatch for comfort? </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">(Don't forget to check out the Brooks outfit <a href="http://onestepatatime-missjewels.blogspot.com/2011/03/brooks-giveaway.html">giveaway</a>)</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-42647478109812088722011-02-23T07:22:00.000-08:002011-02-23T07:26:44.603-08:00Here We Go Again<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">When I started training for my first half marathon in June last year, I thought I would instantly drop a lot of weight. What I soon learned is that runners are classified into two different categories: the ones that follow their workout regimen with a healthy or slightly moderate indulgent diet or those that say, "I run, therefore I can eat". And when I say eat, I mean anything and everything because long runs means more calories burned making it okay to consume more calories. There is truth in being able to eat more calories, but by no means is it a green light to consume half a dozen cupcakes.</span><code></code><code><br /></code><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I started running with the "eat right, feel great, run better" attitude. A great recipe for losing weight in which I did. Well that soon changed. I started to notice the longer our runs got the more hungry I became. I quickly transformed into the "I run, therefore I can eat runner". Half a dozen cupcakes...yup, guilty as charged. In my defense, I sell cupcakes to make extra money to pay for my marathons so I need to taste them right? Okay...perhaps not six all at once. I'm admitting it--all the eating has caught up to me.</span><code><br /></code><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">For the last six months, all I've done is complain about how my clothes don't fit to which friends and family respond: "How have you gained weight if you run so much?" Again, I became the "I run, therefore I can eat" type of runner.</span><code><br /></code><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I hate to admit this publicly and it's not because I am ashamed. I'll be the first to say...God did not bless me with a petite figure. I'm tall and curvy. I don't like to admit that I'm trying to lose weight because I don't want to be held accountable in case I can't do it. I know...I shouldn't be so negative but I have to be honest; I'm just not motivated. Another reason is that I think it takes a lot of guts to put something like this out in the open. I admire those who share their weight loss journey with others in their blogs especially those who have lost so much. Here I am struggling with 15 pounds and already feel defeated.</span><code><br /></code><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I know it will not only help me feel better but also would improve my running as I'll have less weight to carry. So, I titled this entry <i>here we go again</i> as I have decided to give Weight Watchers another go. Prior to my marathon training, I was a member and less than a pound from my goal weight but had to drop as the meetings conflicted with my training. Go figure...I stopped going to meetings to run and ended up gaining weight.</span><code><br /></code><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;">I chose WW because I know it works and helps keep me structured which for me, is what works. How has running changed your eating habits? What works for you? </span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4_w_lq4b4uc/TWUlPmOhTUI/AAAAAAAAAJM/N1OBCNMRqzo/s1600/Dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4_w_lq4b4uc/TWUlPmOhTUI/AAAAAAAAAJM/N1OBCNMRqzo/s320/Dinner.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Day 2 Dinner: Turkey burger on whole wheat bread, salad with vinaigrette, and grapes</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-52964669131115122042011-02-15T18:26:00.000-08:002011-02-15T18:27:59.798-08:00Hood To Coast...A Must See Film!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Last week I encountered a difficult decision…to run or not to run. Every Thursday I try to make it out to the Rose Bowl to run with <a href="http://www.runasnailspace.com/">A Snail’s Pace</a>. They’re a running group with different chapters in Southern California. I LOVE running with them because they’re fast and I find that I really push myself. This particular Thursday just so happened to be the same Thursday <a href="http://www.hoodtocoastmovie.com/">Hood to Coast</a> was playing in theaters. For those of you not familiar with Hood to Coast, it’s the world’s largest relay race which takes place in Portland, Oregon every August. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KFYJZm6AbVg/TVs1oft6E6I/AAAAAAAAAJI/chHs4uNmUfQ/s1600/hood_to_coast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KFYJZm6AbVg/TVs1oft6E6I/AAAAAAAAAJI/chHs4uNmUfQ/s320/hood_to_coast.jpg" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Hood to Coast Poster</strong></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The film was shown in theaters last month for a special one night engagement. On this one night, the film aired around the country opening with a live preview featuring <a href="http://www.bartyasso.com/">Burt Yasso</a>, CRO of <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/">Runner’s World Magazine</a>. I’d missed the original screening and contemplated going when the encore presentation was announced. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I left work for the day thinking, run or movie? I was stopped at red light when a Tweet came through on my cell phone from <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/kui360">@Kui360</a>: “<a href="http://twitter.com/#!/MissJewels212">@MissJewels212</a>, please go watch Hood to Coast for me. It's not playing in my area. Bummed... :(” It was a sign, turn left and head to the theater. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I got there with ten minutes to spare. I thought for sure the theater would be crowded so I bought my ticket on the road (shhh, don’t tell the police I was using my phone while driving…I waited till I was stopped at a light, promise.) I went inside and was pumped for this movie. I’d never done a relay before so I was really excited to see what this Hood to Coast was all about, how it worked, the coordination of a 12-man team and seeing runners in action. Instead of previews or ads on the screen, a slideshow of the different teams played. It only got me more excited for the film to start. A few minutes before show time, a familiar face walked in. It was my college buddy <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/EndurancePro">Rudi</a> and a friend of his! We sat together and waited in anticipation. And then it began…</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The movie covered the history of Hood to Coast and followed the journey of four teams participating that year. It was an incredible documentary on a legendary relay that was created in 1982 by Bob Foote, president of Oregon Road Runners Club. The 197-mile relay race had grown tremendously over the years with teams now being selected through a lottery process which opens in October for the relay in August. The relay has 36 legs, each varying in length and level of difficulty; each runner runs three legs. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">What was interesting about the film was that it was not only a documentary about the relay itself but that it also highlighted teams like Dead Jocks in A Box, a team comprised of a group of older men who have been participating in Hood to Coast for several years. Watching them come to grips with the fact that they are no longer "fast" is quite commical. I must say, I admire anyone who can run a 7-minute mile especially in their 60's...according to them, that's slow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The film really demonstrates the passion and respect these groups have for Hood to Coast. For example, Heart n Sole another group made up of women who have also been long-time participants. Kathy Ryan, one of the teammates had actually died during the previous year running the relay but was brought back to life and is eager to run Hood to Coast again. This woman’s determination is borderline psychotic to the average person, but as a runner you definitely understand the pain and heartbreak she experiences when her doctor tells her that she needs to hang up her sneakers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Another group is Team R. Bowe running in memory of Ryan Bowe. This story was so touching. Ryan had run his first Hood to Coast at the age of 12 by default; his father had formed a team and one of the runners backed out last minute. Then 12-year-old Ryan asked his dad if he could run with them, and so he did. He later died at a young age leaving behind a wife and a baby. The film follows his wife, mother, brother, father, and friends who participate in his honor.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">And finally, we have team Thunder and Laikaning, the most non-experienced team of all…the bad boys of the bunch if you will, who decide they will not train but instead drink beer and just hope they cross the finish line. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Hood to Coast was truly an amazing adventure to watch and follow. It was very inspiring and made me think that I could not wait for October to put my name in the lottery. The miles in the film looked grueling but the glory these teams felt, their dedication and their stories were incredibly moving. A definite must see if you get the chance! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">After the film, Rudi and I talked about about the possibility of doing a relay...more to come on this! Stay tuned! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-2422455513349223022011-02-14T18:23:00.000-08:002011-02-15T10:36:21.800-08:00Surf City Half Marathon Recap<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">At the start of the year, I was determined to run as many marathons as I possibly could. As noted in my previous posts, I ran Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona and absolutely loved it. What’s next? I really wanted to do </span><a href="http://www.runsurfcity.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Surf City</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> since it was one of the races our Long Beach Team in Training had been training for all season. I knew how excited I was for my first race and how great it was to see familiar faces out on the course so I wanted to be right there with them. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">For whatever reason I waited to register and when I finally did decide to do so, Surf City was sold out. In my defense, I’m still fairly new to marathons. I know now to register ahead of time and not wait until the last minute. I was really bummed and thought if anything I’d just go run with our team but truth be told, deep down, I really wanted the medal and the glory too. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As luck would have it, a bib literally came to me. My wonderful friends who I’d met in Long Beach last year were registered but weren’t able to make the trip. I know marathon organizers would frown upon this transaction but you can’t just let a bib go to waste if the original registrants can’t participate. I owe this entire experience to Marianne and Randy. Your kindness and generosity are beyond words and I am truly grateful for this gift. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Expo weekend came and I couldn’t believe that just three weeks ago I was in Arizona. I remember how well I’d been running leading up to Arizona but Surf City was a bit different. There’s always those races you get insanely nervous to run…Surf City was definitely that race for me. For some reason, I’d felt incredibly weak the days leading up to it. I’d run two miles and feel completely wiped out. I had no idea how I was going to do 13. There was no turning back at this point. I’d picked up the bibs, looked around the expo for a bit (found some rather interesting items), and went home to get all my gear ready. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><strong><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aC_UyXo0S9c/TVnheaWR5SI/AAAAAAAAAI0/CGYokpI0fI8/s320/marathong.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="238" /></strong></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;"><strong>I'm asssuming this is the type of underwear you wear for a marathon...the MARATHONG! LOL!</strong></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I could not sleep at all…again my darn nerves worrying about crossing the finish line. 4:30 a.m. came so quickly and off I went to meet up with some of our teammates running the marathon. We got to Huntington Beach rather early and sat in the car for a while not wanting to be out in the cold. Tired and cold, we finally got out of the car and made our way to meet with the rest of the team. The thrill of being out there with them was exciting. For many of them, this was going to be thier first half marathon and also for my friend Rudi who I'd gone to grad school with. Ahhh that first time feeling! We took pictures and waited for what seemed like hours. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><strong><img border="0" h5="true" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Hj3Efty4DY/TVngB0JMdPI/AAAAAAAAAIw/ldiiCBHASR8/s320/LBTeam2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></strong></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Our Long Beach Team in Training at the start line</strong></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I promised some of our teammates we’d run together but in typical marathon fashion, too much shuffling during a race and we lost each other. I managed to stick with one of our teammates, Jennifer who actually kept me going the entire time. “Follow the pink shorts!” I kept telling myself and that I did. We kept weaving in and out of the crowd trying to get ahead. We stayed at a good pace, around 9:40 per mile up until around mile 8 or 9. We were tiring out as we hit a few inclines. “What comes up, must come down!” I told Jennifer. The only problem was…it never felt like it went downhill or at least that’s how it feels after so many miles. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I trudged through the last four just exhausted but I never stopped running…well my last few miles were more of a jogging pace but I did it. I crossed the finish line at 2:17:58. Right before collecting my medal, I took a deep breath and cried. <em>Why?</em> I can never explain to anyone who is a non-runner without getting a weird reaction. <em>Really? You cried?</em> It’s not like a sobbing cry or tears streaming down your face, it’s more like a release of emotion that you’ve held on to for the last 2 plus hours. It was a great feeling in an exhausting kind of way. I looked back to find Jennifer but didn't see her. It turns out she finished about 45 seconds after me. I walked around in a bit of a daze, picked up my gear, and reunited with some friends and our teammates at the TNT tent.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I want to congratulate our TNT participants who not only toughed out 13.1 miles but also helped raise money to fight blood cancers…you are all heroes in my book! GO TEAM! Till the next one…happy running! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>Some more post race pics:</strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GDVpIX9gTAM/TVnizt62waI/AAAAAAAAAI4/a1FBPUzdk4I/s1600/coach+c+and+r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="228" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GDVpIX9gTAM/TVnizt62waI/AAAAAAAAAI4/a1FBPUzdk4I/s320/coach+c+and+r.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I was promised a mimosa by the </span><a href="http://twitter.com/#!/ALPHARunning"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Alpha Running</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> family so you bet I went over to collect. They’re a great running/training group out of Los Angeles. Thanks to Coach C. for the welcome and congrats to </span><a href="http://twitter.com/#!/search/endurancepro"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Rudi</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> on his first race. </span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gnNiIcdJh5Q/TVnjBpNk-mI/AAAAAAAAAI8/mNyO8im6Xac/s1600/SCmedal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gnNiIcdJh5Q/TVnjBpNk-mI/AAAAAAAAAI8/mNyO8im6Xac/s320/SCmedal.jpg" width="236" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">The beautiful Surf City medal!</span></strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVZVyTgbmnU/TVnjESP1KqI/AAAAAAAAAJA/ezpP-Dxp7Og/s1600/SurfCity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVZVyTgbmnU/TVnjESP1KqI/AAAAAAAAAJA/ezpP-Dxp7Og/s320/SurfCity.jpg" width="212" /></span></strong></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sporting our Team in Training shirt and my rockin' new medal! </span></strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span></div>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-43806279199240612542011-02-03T18:40:00.000-08:002011-02-08T18:43:19.339-08:00Registered for the LA Marathon!2010 was a very big year for me! I finally finished my master’s program after 5 years of being in school, moved out of my parent’s house, and ran my first half marathon. While I was proud of the master’s and felt a little bit more independent after moving out, the accomplishment I was and am still most proud of is my half marathon finish. Why? <br />
<br />
I suppose because it’s more physically challenging than anything I have ever done. With my master’s program, yes my brain got an intense workout and now my wallet, moving out and buying my own everyday essentials but a half marathon was something I never thought I could do. Well, enough relishing in my half marathon glory…as of today, I am signed up for the Los Angeles Marathon, just 45 days away! Am I nervous, heck yeah! Excited? Definitely! Can't wait for March 20th!MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-60957261707936082082011-01-25T08:58:00.000-08:002011-02-23T14:51:58.755-08:00I Race to Be the Cure!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">One thing I love about working at our agency </span><a href="http://www.vpe-pr.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">VPE Public Relations</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">, is all the fun things we get to do as an office. Sure the Christmas parties and summer picnics are great but I am most proud of an event that we’ve participated in for the last two years, </span><a href="http://www.komenlacounty.org/komen-race-for-the-cure/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Susan G. Komen’s Race for the Cure in Los Angeles</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">. In addition to this, we started our annual Spring Into Shape challenge where we are awarded points for exercising and a weight loss competition for those interested in dropping a few pounds. Yesterday some of us decided to start going to the Rose Bowl once a week to earn some points for the challenge but also to help us prepare for Race for the Cure coming up on March 6th at Dodger Stadium. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TT-DHAWLuZI/AAAAAAAAAIc/v3qyt0N0MAc/s1600/VPERace4theCure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TT-DHAWLuZI/AAAAAAAAAIc/v3qyt0N0MAc/s400/VPERace4theCure.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Race for the Cure 2010</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Each year, we see the incredible creativity that many of the participants put in for Race for the Cure: sparkly t-shirts , their team name and even the accessories they sport on the day of the race—anything from pink wigs to pink boas, the official color of breast cancer awareness. It’s these little elements that make Race for the Cure LA a fun event and capture the essence of what this race is about—a celebration of life for survivors, a day to remember the people we’ve lost, and motivation for us to continue to spread the message about the importance breast cancer research and also taking an active role in our own breast health through their </span><a href="http://www.komenlacounty.org/komen-race-for-the-cure/i-am-the-cure/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I AM THE CURE</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> program. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This year we wanted to be just as fun and creative so we came up with LOS BOOBIES for our team name inspired by </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FL_kcn_F5s"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Los Bukis</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">, a Mexican band of the 80’s and 90’s that many of our staff members are fans of. We really liked their logo and thought it would make for a great shirt come race day! Although the name itself might be a bit funny, the cause and the mission of Susan G. Komen is something I know many of us take seriously. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Breast cancer has claimed the lives of some of my friends' and co-workers' relatives as well as my own family members’. It has affected some of my closest friends whom are survivors themselves or have survivors in their family. The two family members we lost, I will admit, I was not that close to. The first was my stepdad’s mom who passed away when I was fairly young; when his father remarried, his second wife also passed away from breast cancer. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I don’t remember too much about the time my stepdad lost his mom, but I remember a conversation I had with him after her death. As a little girl, I didn’t know what to say. All I could think was, “I’m sorry for your loss.” He replied angrily, “That’s something you say to a stranger.” OUCH! It really stung and to this day, I am really cautious about what I say to people when they lose someone. I don’t blame my stepdad for having said this. As you get older you learn a little bit more about dealing with these types of things that happen in life but no matter what age, be it 10 or 28 death is still never easy to deal with. What do you tell someone who’s lost a family member especially something like breast cancer? No words can ever make the person feel better but in some way, on this one day that we unite to walk or run our 3.1 miles around Dodger Stadium, it feels like we’ve said it all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I am happy to be part Race for the Cure LA this year and especially proud to work at an agency that encourages giving back in such an impactful way. As an avid runner/half-marathoner, the 3.1 miles will be a breeze but rest assured I will think of the battles many of these woman AND men have overcome or those who weren’t as fortunate. Although I hate to even think about it, I can’t help but wonder what if my mom or grandmas are diagnosed…what if it’s me? That is why we must participate in things like Susan G. Komen’s Race for the Cure and organizations like </span><a href="http://www.teamintraining.org/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Team In Training</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">…to help find a cure for our generation and generations to come. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">To put things in perspective, I copied an e-mail sent to me from the Susan G. Komen organization reminding us why we do this: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>We run for the 100 women who will be diagnosed this week in our county and 100 next week and the week after that.<br /><br />We run for the 22 women who will die from breast cancer this week and each week after.<br /><br />We run for the survivors who come to celebrate their lives and for the new survivors who will come next year. <br /><br />We run for our sisters, our mothers, our daughters, our grandchildren.<br /><br />We run for a cure knowing that breast cancer is no longer a death sentence. <br /><br />We run for the day that breast cancer is no more!<br /></b>I encourage everyone to get involved by either joining our agency’s team, forming one of your own, or donating! According to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, we’re just 3 years from finding a cure to cancer. Participating in these events help us get one step closer. If you’d like to join our team, just look for </span><a href="http://lacounty.info-komen.org/site/TR/RacefortheCure/PSD_LosAngelesCountyAffiliate?pg=team&fr_id=2042&team_id=153723"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Los Boobies</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">!</span>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-16102648165456881212011-01-20T21:57:00.000-08:002011-01-21T11:48:01.746-08:00Pain Is Temporary, Pride Is Forever!If you follow me on Twitter, you know I set out to beat my half marathon time and accomplished my mission. To the average person, my 2:14:19 might seem fantastic yet to the avid, hard-core runner, it’s just O.K. Well to me, it was my glory moment. Rock ‘N’ Roll Arizona was my big pat on the shoulder, my “hey, you set out to come in at under 2:15 and you did it”. I will forever cherish that moment because for me it meant a new chapter in my running life and a whole new challenge down the road. <br />
<br />
#RnRAZ was all the buzz on Twitter weeks before the marathon. It was great to hear everyone’s excitement and figured that some of us should meet up while we were there. <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/funegrl262">@funegrl262</a> or as I soon discovered, Savitre planned a dinner for a group of us Saturday night. Lucky for me, I happened to catch her at expo. We were excited to meet one another as we’d both shared a passion for running AND baking. Sisters separated at birth I tell you. We ran through the expo like a bunch of little kids snapping photos and trying out some of the products. Thanks to her boyfriend Kofre for being our photographer. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjm5QwHdcI/AAAAAAAAAHc/O9o-BukfmFc/s1600/ExpoRnR.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="288" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjm5QwHdcI/AAAAAAAAAHc/O9o-BukfmFc/s320/ExpoRnR.JPG" /></a></div><b>Savitre and I rocking out at expo! <br />
</b><br />
Prior to Arizona, I’d received a Tweet from <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Ifitnessrunning">@Ifitnessrunning</a> announcing that I was the winner of their contest. I’d won a running belt which by the way is awesome! I’ve yet to try it but it’s super stylish and has reflectors which you all know how much I love. I can’t wait to wear it! Thank you again <a href="http://www.ifitnessinc.com/">IFitness</a>! It was a pleasure to meet you Hailey—she’s a sweetheart BTW!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjnRxdjvCI/AAAAAAAAAHk/HUFJolQcliI/s1600/Belt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="320" width="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjnRxdjvCI/AAAAAAAAAHk/HUFJolQcliI/s320/Belt.jpg" /></a></div><b>Had to sport the new belt I won!</b><br />
<br />
Right before we were about the meet the rest of the group, I rushed to the Sheraton to meet a fellow TNT’er from San Antonio, Lisa or as most know her, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/BeMadThen">@BeMadThen</a>. Lisa and I had shared a few Tweet conversations here and there. I’d only wished I had met Lisa sooner because the days leading up to this race, she‘d really inspired me to push my pace. Her goal for the half was a 2:07 which was far out of my range but definitely a good motivator for me. I arranged to meet Lisa the next morning because as crazy as it sounded, I was going to do my absolute best to keep up with her. <br />
<br />
Before heading to the hotel to get my gear ready, I joined the rest of the people who had RSVP’ed for dinner. It was so great to meet all the people I’d shared Tweets with over the last few weeks. We went around introducing each other by name but our names were met with blank stares from one another. “Hi, I’m Julie. (Smile, blank stare)…<a href="http://twitter.com/#!/MissJewels212">@MissJewels212</a>!” Once we went around introducing ourselves by our Twitter handles, all you could hear was, “OH, so nice to meet you in person!!!”<br />
<br />
We had a blast exchanging our race-day jitters and hopes for the next day. Some had a time goal whereas others had hoped to just cross the finish line. Whatever our goals were, by that time the following day, we’d all have a medal in hand and a great accomplishment to look back on. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjnmJHprqI/AAAAAAAAAHs/WavGbb7pka8/s1600/EThai.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="162" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjnmJHprqI/AAAAAAAAAHs/WavGbb7pka8/s320/EThai.JPG" /></a></div><b>Twitter unites runners! </b><br />
<br />
I headed back to the hotel, gathered my gear for the next day, took a deep breath and thought, “It’s almost show time.” It was still early out so my boyfriend and I went to a nearby restaurant, toasted to a good race and hopefully a new personal best. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjoHI5dCtI/AAAAAAAAAH8/I5lWZdam4fA/s1600/Meb4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="320" width="291" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjoHI5dCtI/AAAAAAAAAH8/I5lWZdam4fA/s320/Meb4.jpg" /></a></div><b>Proudly sporting my bib the evening before</b><br />
<br />
The next morning I woke up excited and nervous. I put on my gear, hopped on the train and made my way to the start line. I met with my long lost sister Savitre for a photo. We hugged and wished each other luck. A few minutes later, Lisa made it to the start area and we rushed to corral 3. It all went by so fast and before I knew it, corral 3 was off and running. I held up just fine the first few miles. Lisa had to stop and use the restroom but told me she’d catch up. I kept looking back like a lost little child hoping I’d find her. I think it wasn’t till mile 3 that she’d actually found me again. We ran together for the next three miles but after that I just couldn’t hang. I was actually sad as I watched her get farther and farther ahead of me. I was really disappointed in myself but I had to remember that we weren’t even at the half way point and I didn’t want to risk burning out. I appreciate Lisa for agreeing to run with me and only wish I could have crossed the finish line with her but again, made the decision to stay behind and continue at my pace. THANK YOU AGAIN LISA!!!<br />
<br />
I am truly convinced God puts signs or people on the course to help guide you through tough situations. For me, my sign came in the form of a little girl carrying a poster board that read: “Pain is temporary, pride is forever!” Now if I could just find that little girl and tell her how her sign carried me the last half of the 13.1 miles! I repeated this phrase in my head every time I felt like stopping for a walk break. “Under 2:15, beat your last PR Julie…PAIN IS TEMPORARY, PRIDE IS FOREVER!!!” Mile 10 came and I was spent. My thighs were burning, my lower back felt heavy and I just wanted to stop right there and then. PAIN IS TEMPORARY, PRIDE IS FOREVER! Mile 11 was a blur, mile 12 was a beast and getting to mile 13 was excruciating! I remember thinking, “Why do I do these again?” Oh that’s right…because PAIN IS TEMPORARY, PRIDE IS FOREVER! And with that, I got to 13.1! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjn2QGbPsI/AAAAAAAAAH0/BLmhh4L6ma4/s1600/Mepost.jpg.bmp" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="306" width="207" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjn2QGbPsI/AAAAAAAAAH0/BLmhh4L6ma4/s320/Mepost.jpg.bmp" /></a></div><b>I like to call this my "after" shot...I'm tired and sweaty but see that beauty in my hand? Love it! </b><br />
<br />
The clock time said 2:16 which I knew was not my chip time. I wasn’t sure if I’d gotten under 2:15 but I’d definitely beat my best time. I rushed to find Shaun and get out of there as we had to check out of the hotel. I was a bit disappointed that I couldn’t nestle in my glory for a bit longer but being an out-of-town race, time was against us. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjo1c6ZY9I/AAAAAAAAAIM/qqGCzJLDfUg/s1600/Shaunnme.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="226" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TTjo1c6ZY9I/AAAAAAAAAIM/qqGCzJLDfUg/s320/Shaunnme.JPG" /></a></div><b>My boyfriend Shaun and I</b><br />
<br />
After check out we went to a place called Over Easy. I’m a huge Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives fan, a show featured on the Food Network where they highlight places to eat all across the country. This particular restaurant was on that show…banana pecan caramel French toast was their specialty. So after my 13.1, I knew I deserved every morsel. It was delicious and the staff was very kind. <br />
<br />
We made our way back to LA…a bittersweet trip since it had all seemed to be done in the blink of an eye. On our way home we stopped at a little dinosaur exhibit. Shaun and I snapped a few pics, marking one for the books on our list of memories as a couple. I can’t thank him enough for this experience (his birthday gift to me), for his patience and support. <br />
<br />
All in all, Rock ‘N’ Roll Arizona was a great event not to mention all the wonderful people I’d met while I was there. I hope it’s not the last time we all see each other: <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/goingforgoofy">@goingforgoofy</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/eorvieto">@eorvieto</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/funegrl262">@funegrl262</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Indianabackdoc">@Indianabackdoc</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/tipcan">@tipcan</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/RNinSoCal">@RNinSoCal</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/dragonflytweet">@dragonflytweet</a>, and <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/KGirlTris">@KGirlTris</a>. I want to also thank all of you who Tweeted their support before and after! There are so many to thank: <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/run2savelives">@run2savelives</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/KristyLPants">@KristyLPants</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/liloruns">@liloruns</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/aimeespencer">@aimeespencer</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/FitsCute">@FitsCute</a>,<a href="http://twitter.com/#!/acmedragon337">@acmedragon337</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/VodkaRoxchik">@VodkaRoxchik</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Smplefy646">@Smplefy646</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/RunWicked">@RunWicked</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/EndurancePro">@EndurancePro</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/RunnerLuis">@RunnerLuis</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/LyricJunkie">@LyricJunkie</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/262milejourney">@262milejourney</a>, and a big congrats to <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/LJ3000">@LJ3000</a> for setting her marathon PR! <br />
<br />
A special shout out to my awesome co-workers for the support as well: <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/alicia4181">@Alicia4181</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/FreddyLee">@FreddyLee</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/MaricelaC">@MaricelaC</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/2Latina">@2Latina</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/MarisolNajarro">@MarisolNajarro</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/E_S123">@E_S123</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/VPEPR">@VPEPR</a>! Thanks to them for having supported my fundraisers back when I was raising money for TNT and for their continued support down the road! <br />
<br />
I know there a lot more of you I didn't mention but every tweet meant a lot to me! THANK YOU! I still can’t imagine how on earth I will do 26.2 but I will definitely remember that little girl’s sign for when the time comes to do my first full…PAIN IS TEMPORARY, PRIDE IS FOREVER!MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-60804856399349682482011-01-12T23:14:00.000-08:002011-01-13T17:05:31.086-08:00Holidays Are Done...Rock 'N' Roll Arizona Here I Come!It’s been way too long since my last post. Sorry about that. Took a little break during the holidays to clear my head and do some good ol' holiday baking. During my break, I even learned how to make some really yummy dishes which I am very proud of because I wanted to prove that I was capable of more than just baking. Not that baking isn’t an art in and of itself but I started to get tired of people asking my boyfriend, “Yeah, she can bake but does she know how to cook?” And when I say people asking, it was my own dang family! LOL! I was on a mission to prove that I was about more than cookies and cupcakes…mission accomplished: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9dpY_PSeI/AAAAAAAAAGs/T-xzwNNw8ks/s1600/baking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="238" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9dpY_PSeI/AAAAAAAAAGs/T-xzwNNw8ks/s320/baking.jpg" /></a></div><b>Learned to make pozole with the help of my mom and my grandma (From left to right; Me, mom...yes, that's my mom and grandma, the garlic queen)<br />
</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9d01w6HYI/AAAAAAAAAG0/I102lzjIdBE/s1600/chileverde_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="238" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9d01w6HYI/AAAAAAAAAG0/I102lzjIdBE/s320/chileverde_n.jpg" /></a></div><b>Followed a great recipe on <a href="http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/chile_verde/">SimplyRecipes.com</a> for chile verde<br />
</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9eASXJRoI/AAAAAAAAAG8/A5EavfUdXLs/s1600/Enchiladas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="238" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9eASXJRoI/AAAAAAAAAG8/A5EavfUdXLs/s320/Enchiladas.jpg" /></a></div><b>Chicken enchiladas which are fairly easy<br />
</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9h7_YmXKI/AAAAAAAAAHM/fi-hIiNDTh4/s1600/brownies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="320" width="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9h7_YmXKI/AAAAAAAAAHM/fi-hIiNDTh4/s320/brownies.jpg" /></a></div><b>Mint chocolate brownies for the family Christmas festivities<br />
</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9iHaV_LuI/AAAAAAAAAHU/xQNAghyTcvI/s1600/ApricotCake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="238" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9iHaV_LuI/AAAAAAAAAHU/xQNAghyTcvI/s320/ApricotCake.jpg" /></a></div><b>Almond apricot cake made for Dia De Los Reyes/birthday<br />
</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9eIahbRJI/AAAAAAAAAHE/EulAkYAyjNE/s1600/caldo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="238" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TS9eIahbRJI/AAAAAAAAAHE/EulAkYAyjNE/s320/caldo.jpg" /></a></div><b>And what us Mexicans call, caldo or in my case, my 2011 diet plan to get back in shape!<br />
</b><br />
The New Year swung in full gear with work and just life in general. But as my cure-all to the grind, I continued to run and threw in a little strength training, making sure I would be ready for Rock 'N' Roll Arizona. I wasn’t going to be overly confident like I was for the Long Beach International City Bank Marathon (half). I remember my foolish mentality weeks before that race. In my head I thought, “I’ve done it before. If I keep up running 3 miles here and there, I’ll be fine.” Not exactly the case—to my dismay I went more than 12 minutes over my previous and best time.<br />
<br />
With a 2:30:58 looming over my head, I was determined to redeem myself. My boyfriend knew how important it was to me so he gave me the best birthday present any girl could want…no not diamonds...an entry to Rock 'n' Roll Arizona and some new running gear. Yes, he’s a keeper. :) <br />
<br />
Well as luck would have it, I got sick at the start of my training and was out for over a month! I had my days where I was stubborn and would run despite my bronchial infection and disturbing chest pains. I eventually just had to give in and rest. Running with my chest pains really scared the crap out of me even though the doctor had assured me I was fine. <b>Doctor:</b> What’s the problem? <b>Me:</b> Chest pains whenever I move. I’m scared I won’t be able to run. <b>Doctor:</b> When was the last time you ran? <b>Me:</b> Yesterday. <b>Doctor:</b> How many miles? <b>Me:</b> Four miles! Honey, you’re fine! I can’t get my own patients to walk around the corner to the store and you ran four miles with chest pains! You’re okay. It will go away. <br />
<br />
It went away…four weeks later!!! Getting back on track was…let’s just say it wasn’t pretty. I fell pretty bad one night which I now have a small scar on my hand. That one is probably best left blamed to clumsiness but you get the point. I felt so discouraged. Not only was it hard to face the fact that I couldn’t run like I used to, the number on the scale started to teeter back to my weight before I got into health and fitness back in 2008. I was in a horrible funk.<br />
<br />
I managed to get back on track after a few weeks. It was difficult but I had to get through it with Arizona just a few weeks away from that point. Now I stand with only three days till I’m at the start line ready to add another half to my list. Although I’d hit a little bump in the road, I feel about 75% ready for Rock 'N' Roll Arizona. I say 75% because I don’t want to go in like last time thinking I’ve got this! But don’t let my 75% confuse you for negative thought…I am not at all going into RnR AZ with a bad attitude. I am going into it with sheer modesty. Am I ready for this race? HECK YEAH! I’m beyond excited to run my first Rock 'N'Roll event!MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1274430394773457864.post-72728658329502950972010-12-22T08:12:00.000-08:002010-12-22T15:50:09.422-08:00Yes I'm the Girl Wearing the Highlighter Yellow Reflective Vest!In a recent Tweet, I shared with everyone that I was truly excited to have received an incredibly thoughtful Christmas gift from one of my co-workers. But before I opened it, she warned, "I hope it's not too dorky." I was so touched when I saw what it was...a reflective vest for my nighttime runs! She had heard me complain all week about almost getting hit by drivers out on the road. Being 100% honest with her, I said, "Sure I think they're dorky but who cares...safety!" <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRJzkLzohiI/AAAAAAAAAFw/g30IhLz6XZ4/s1600/Vest2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="320" width="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRJzkLzohiI/AAAAAAAAAFw/g30IhLz6XZ4/s320/Vest2.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<br />
This weekend, I was blessed again with more gear, this time from my boyfriend who took me to one of my favorite stores. "Are you up for a surprise?" he asked. OF COURSE! So we got ready and headed out. He refused to say where we were going but that it involved some Christmas shopping. As we parked, I knew exactly what store he was taking me to... <a href="http://www.rei.com/">REI</a>! YAY! We walked in and he asked the store clerk where we could find reflective gear. YAY AGAIN! I was spoiled...an awesome Brooks jacket, a reflective arm band and a reflective holder for my IPhone. I'm such a lucky girl! Thank you sweetheart! <br />
<br />
Gear from REI; with flash <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRJ0cUyLHMI/AAAAAAAAAF4/Kmqjh-cQnQ4/s1600/Jacket.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="320" width="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRJ0cUyLHMI/AAAAAAAAAF4/Kmqjh-cQnQ4/s320/Jacket.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Without flash...BTW this jacket is awesome! It rolls into a pouch. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRKHN0TUkdI/AAAAAAAAAGI/P0CIsFalQ5Y/s1600/Jacket2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="320" width="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRKHN0TUkdI/AAAAAAAAAGI/P0CIsFalQ5Y/s320/Jacket2.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Lightweight, water/wind resistant, and perfect for storing a little body spray for after a race! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRKIGcWH4HI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/3pTiyKOKOZs/s1600/pouch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="239" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRKIGcWH4HI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/3pTiyKOKOZs/s320/pouch.JPG" /></a></div><a href="http://www.brooksrunning.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-BrooksRunning-Site/default/Product-Select?pid=220217&dwvar_220217_color=100">Click here</a> to find the jacket although mine is the men's version.<br />
<br />
Having shared the photos of both my vest and jacket on FB, some of my non-runner friends teased me. I have to admit pretty funny though. My brother asked if he could borrow my jacket for a rave. LOL! I brushed off the comments and reminded people about safety. <br />
<br />
Well yesterday I decided to go with the vest even though it was raining a bit and the jacket would have been the better option; the boyfriend said he wanted to wrap the items he had bought for me at REI to have something for me to open Christmas day. As I put it on, I thought it might be a bit much and draw too much attention. Proving that I could still be safe while remaining fashionable, I wrapped the vest aroung my waist almost like you would place a race bib. I thought it looked great...reflectors in the front and in the back flapping in the wind.<br />
<br />
The wrong way to wear the vest:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRJzHdCc76I/AAAAAAAAAFo/m4dO7ipnz8Y/s1600/Vest1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRJzHdCc76I/AAAAAAAAAFo/m4dO7ipnz8Y/s320/Vest1.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Less than half a mile into my run, a guy was pulling out of a parking lot and almost did not see me till I shined my flashlight on him. I was annoyed but kept along my run. About another mile later, the same thing happened only this time it was right in the middle of an intersection and the lady did not see me at all. She was making a left hand turn, mind you I had the right of way, little guy flashing WALK and all. Here's a diagram of the situation; the WTF stands for WHAT THE FUDGE, I promise ;)Oh, and I'm not the greatest artist. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRJyMhnRBEI/AAAAAAAAAFg/IhAzrmBFvZw/s1600/Diagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="319" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_i9E5Hh7nr5k/TRJyMhnRBEI/AAAAAAAAAFg/IhAzrmBFvZw/s320/Diagram.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I flashed my light on her and stopped till she could see me. Yes, I know VERY dumb move but I was so pissed off! I let her pass and just yelled "HELLO!" She signaled at me to move and drove off clearly not giving a rats behind. I kept running and some car started yelling something in my direction. He looked really mad, like it was my fault. I think he was saying "Get the hell out of the way!" which was maybe his nice way of reminding me how dumb it was to stop mid-run and yell at this woman. I was pretty angry though. I just don't understand the carelessness of drivers!!! <br />
<br />
At this point, I told myself, "Julie, this is ridiculous! Wear the damn vest like you're supposed to!" I stopped mid-run and sported my vest like it was a badge of honor. I continued along my run feeling proud...yeah, I'm the girl with the highlighter yellow reflective vest! DO YOU SEE ME NOW?!?!<br />
<br />
<i>I got a honk and a wave along the way so maybe it did work! :) </i>MissJewelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07547058278900675992noreply@blogger.com4