Underwater Basket Weaving?!

I had quite the fitness week - great workouts, and lots of injuries.
I've been running (seriously) for almost two years now, with no accidents.  This week, I had two separate boo-boos.  Is it because I am approaching 30 ( +10)?

First of all, I had vehicle citation last week.  Again, I am not sure if it's because I am almost 30 ( +10), but someone forgot to register her vehicle, and got pulled over.  Being the weekend, I couldn't deal with it until business hours Monday.  So I was nervous about driving until I got that resolved.  Monday morning, I decided I would run to the gym - it's only 2 miles, and I can run 2 miles.  Apparently, not at 4:30am, on a new route. 
A half mile from the gym, there was an unexpected incline in the sidewalk, and I caught my foot.  I was carrying a water bottle in one hand, and fell awkwardly to the sidewalk.  I tore both knees of my running tights, scraping and bloodying my left knee, and scrapped and tore my right hand. 

Bad-a$$ runner that I am, I got up, kept going, and proceeded to do the hour long spin class before running the two miles back home. 

My hand and knee hurt, but I cleaned everything up, and moved on. 

On Thursday, I went for an early morning run with some friends - 9 miles.  No problems! 

But. . .Thursday evening. I ventured out of my anti-social comfort zone and joined a new cyclist group.  I'd been watching their Facebook posts for a few weeks, reading about the group rides, but feeling intimidated by their speed and experience.
The group meets at 6:50pm in the parking lot of the local YMCA.  I showed up on time.  Got myself ready (helmet, gloves, water bottle).  There were about ten or so cyclists there. . .and the skies opened up.  There was a tremendous downpour.  Some people took shelter in their vehicles, and a few of us huddled under a picnic shelter.  It was a quick, but tremendous rain.

I had warned the leaders that I was slow.  I think my pace was 14mph, and the majority (ALL) the rest of the group was 20+mph.  One gentleman was kind enough to ride with me, and the others took off.  I felt badly for the leader who stayed with me, as I know my pace was significantly slower than he could go - but he was very supportive and encouraging. 

Bike riding is still new to me, and I am still learning how to ride more competitively.  The leader was extremely helpful with suggestion gears, and being patient while I tried them out - quickly figuring out what felt comfortable.

We ended up riding 28 beautiful miles (the sun was setting, and we went down some side roads with big beautiful homes and yards).  At a couple points, I was nervous about wiping out, because of the heavy rain, and car oils on the roads, but we did fine.  I even improved my pace - to a 15.5 mph!

As we returned to the Y parking lot, I could see that one other cyclist had stayed behind, to make sure that we arrived back safely (very thoughtful).  Although when we pulled up, he admitted that he was about to come out looking for us.

We stood there, straddling our bikes, and chatting for a minute.  Then, in all my grace and sexiness, I reached up to adjust my helmet, and, not having unclipped my left foot from the pedal, tipped and fell right over. 

That's right. I rode 28 miles on wet, oily roads - improved my pace, and fell over with my bike while standing in the parking lot chatting. 

I'm a dork.  My friends think I need to add to my story that there was wine in my water bottle.  My husband says I need to tell people that I was rescuing a small child from oncoming traffic.  But, no, not me - I tip over, standing still, in a parking lot.

I added a new cut to my left leg, in addition to the cut from running Monday.

I also tore up my right ankle and calf with the right pedal and gears,







and re-opened my hand wound from Monday.




See, isn't fitness sexy?



Fitness Guru has threatened that one more injury - one more strike - and I will have to hang up my running & biking shoes and take up underwater basket weaving.

I hope underwater basket weaving is not on my horizon. . .no offense to people who enjoy that, but I would like to stick with my running and biking.

My latest workout: Reconnecting

So, I've been a Bad Mommy.

I'm righting that wrong, though. . .and it is my newest workout.

I always joke with people that when I am done with my running, spinning, bootcamp, biking, etc. that I then go onto my second workout of the day: Motherhood.  I joke no more - it is truly a workout.

Let me share a story with you about my motherhood. . .Get comfortable, this is going to make you feel like Parent-of-the-Year:
Whenever I go to Target (or out in public), I stare enviously at what seems like all other parents.  They are able to walk through the stores, sipping their Starbucks, with their children following along quietly with them.  I watch as they peruse the shelves for the item they need, able to read labels, and choose the item they want.  They talk to their children in tones that no one else can hear.  It's like the Twilight Zone, to me. . .Because the way I see myself in Target, is frantic mother - who has pre-mapped out the store, prior to the visit, organized my grocery list, by aisles, so there is no wandering around looking for anything.  Get what I need, get out.  In the meantime, my children are running wild, and by running wild, I mean, running wild.  I am yelling in that deep, "You get over here now and walk with me," voice that is not really a yell, but might as well be. . .My 7 year old asks for at least one item from each aisle, even though I always refuse to buy anything that isn't on the list, and he never has his own money.  My 9 year old is apparently an old man trapped in a young boys body, because we are not even five minutes in the store, and his feet hurt, or his legs hurt, and why do they have to come to the store with me, and is it time to leave yet?  I wish.

Now, I have just given the grocery shop as one example, but it's pretty much accurate for any public outing with my children.  It's exhausting.

So, being the Bad Mommy that I am, I have relied heavily on electronics.  I realize now, that was for my sanity, but of no help to my children.  Now, I've read the research.  I know a lot of screen time isn't good for kids.  During the school year, my kids only get 1 hour a day, after homework is done.  It can be TV, iPod, or computer, or some combination of all three, but only 1 hour.  Yet, if we went out to dinner, I let my kids take their iPods, so that I could actually have a meal in semi-peace.  Or, if I needed to make a phone call at home, I would let them have their iPods, in the hopes that I could have an uninterrupted conversation.

Are you reading all that carefully?  Because I had my head stuck in the sand.  I was doing all that for ME.  I was trying to give myself a break by giving my kids electronics.  It's not fair to them.

So, I got a kick in the rear this past week.  We are debating on enrolling our 9 year old at Brain Balance.  It is an "achievement center" that helps kids with certain issues (he has quite a few), gain more control over their behaviors, and help with academics.  Brain Balance strongly recommended that we limit electronic time to 1 hour a day, even in the summer (we were doing much more than that now that school is out). 

We started this past week, and it has been a lesson for me in reconnecting with my kids.  An important lesson.  An exhausting lesson.  It is truly my second workout of the day - and it lasts all day.

This past year I tutored a wonderful 5th grade girl, who also had a younger sister.  I kid you not, but I showed up on one occasion and they were sitting quietly outside having a tea party.  A tea party!  Sitting quietly!  Another time, I showed up, and they had just finished beautiful art projects that involved paint and glitter.  The house was spotless.

My husband and I joke about tea parties.  You come to my house, and the kids are dismantling the furniture.  At least one of them is climbing up on something.  They truly climb up walls.

I am scared to even bring glitter, glue, and paint into my home, because you can bet your next paycheck it won't be used for a beautiful art project.  Unless you count our walls and floors, possibly some linens, and almost guaranteed the sofa and carpet, as "art" projects.

This is not bad though - it is a good thing.  Right?  It has made me much more aware of being present - my presence - with my children.  It is challenging us to be creative with our time.  I am enjoying this - and my kids are doing quite well with the transition!  I think it has been a good workout for all of us.  Except, I don't want them to be too creative with their time:

I am referring to this as Operation W.I.N.E. (Wii, iPod, No Electronics).  We are all up by 8am.  My kids talk from the moment they wake up until they pass out at night.  Every thought that comes into their heads comes out of their mouths.   There is no quiet.  I could get them quiet with electronics, but Operation W.I.N.E. is in effect. . .and I feel that sometimes, with the constant chattering, it is pushing me towards Operation WINE (as in, give me a drink right now).  Of course, now, it's turning into Operation WHINE (ha ha). . .

Seriously, I am glad to have gotten this back under control.  I am glad that my children are embracing Operation W.I.N.E. more than fighting it.  We are spending time at the pool, at the tree fort, outside playing, parks and playgrounds, even baking together.  My kids are actually (slightly) more calm without all the electronics throughout the day.  It's healthier this way, for all of us.

And wine is a fruit, right, so it's healthy? 

Wash, Rinse, Repeat.

Sunday morning I ran with a friend.  We met at the "butt-crack of dawn" (her words) in order to run before our families woke up, so we would not be infringing on family-time.

As we ran, we talked.  As we talked, I processed.  I had a few "a-ha" moments, and a lot of laughs.

Listening to my early morning running friend, I realized that one of the main things I love about running is the sense of accomplishment I feel from it.  There is so much in my life - the life of a mother, wife, educator, etc. that is incomplete, or in a constant state of what my Mother and I refer to as Groundhog Day. . .The dishes are NEVER done.  The laundry is NEVER done.  Stuff gets done, but it's never completely finished.  Honestly, I don't know about your households, but the second I put away the last dish from the dishwasher, there is a sink full of dirty dishes waiting to be loaded. . .same thing with laundry. 

As my parents frequently point out, there is no "finish-line" with parenthood.  Even though the kids grow, and hopefully move out and on, they are still our kids. . .we still worry.  We are still (hopefully) involved in their lives. 

Running gives me a sense of accomplishment, of completion.  I have run several half marathons.  I have run a marathon.  I have completed duathlons.  I set a goal, I work towards it, and I finish it.  It is a wonderful sense of achievement - each and every time. 
Even a Sunday morning run, with no medals or t-shirts, brings an huge sense of success.  I ran 9 miles before 7:30am.  I feel good about the run, and I feel good about myself.

There is not a lot opportunity in my life (I don't know about yours) where I can replicate this sense of completion and success.  I love my job.  It's a lot like parenthood with ups and downs.  There is no promotion in teaching though.  There are no big bonuses or raises.  There are little moments of success, and frequent moments of doubt.  Same thing with motherhood.  We have had a lot of positive moments lately, particularly with my "challenging" 9 year old.  However, for every up, there is a down.  And again, there is no finish line. 

So, while I love motherhood, and I love teaching - My happy moments while running give me a sense of completing a goal that gives me a much needed pat on the back, that helps me handle all the other moments in my life to which there is no end. . .I know I can - because I do.

When people comment negatively on my running or exercise, "Why do you do that to yourself?" as if I am inflicting some form of self-punishment, I can't help but think -

What do you get to do in your life that brings you a sense of accomplishment?

Mission Miles - 50K (34.08 miles)

This past weekend I participated in the Sally's YMCA Mission Miles Bike Ride.  There were three riding options:  25K, 50K, and 100K.  I opted for the 50K, which was a new and challenging distance for me.

I arrived at the race ridiculously early, as I tend to. . .thanks OCD.  So I had time to relax a little before the ride.  One of my biggest issues with all races are the limited bathroom facilities.  Most races do not offer adequate bathrooms, in my opinion.  There are always looooong lines, and twice I have had to leave the line, in order to go start the race, without getting to "go". 

This race had NO bathroom options.  That's right.  No bathrooms available.  I texted Fitness Guru, and she suggested that I become "one with nature."  Ha ha.  I packed some tissues, in case that suggestion became a reality.

The race started promptly at 8am, and I took off with the other 100K and 50K riders (the 25K started about five minutes after us). . .and before I was even out of the parking lot, the chain popped off my gears completely.  Thankfully, an experienced rider ahead of me heard my (unladylike) comment of frustration and turned around to help.  It took us about five minutes, but we got the chain back on the bike, and we were good to go.  At this point, everyone was ahead of us - and long gone from view.  I felt horrible about this gentlemen falling so far behind (and he was dressed for success).  He was very nice, and got us on the route, before taking off to rejoin his group.

The ride route was through a couple towns that I was not familiar with - which was very nice.  I like seeing new areas.  I managed to recover some time early on, and pass a few people, so I was not last anymore.  However, I ended up riding almost the entire race all by myself:  no one passed me, and I didn't pass anyone.  Lots of time to think. . .and become "one with nature". . .no watering the plants though, no. . .a bird pooped on me! 

Well, shift happens, right?!

The 50K, which I think translates to about 31 or 32 miles, clocked in at 34.08 according to my Garmin.  The ride was challenging, but fun and beautiful.  I had a great time, completed a new distance, and became one with nature.  Yay me!

May Challenges

For some crazy reason, I decided to step out of my exercise comfort zone in May.

At the beginning of the month there was a post floating around Facebook that encouraged people to do a Squat Challenge.  Apparently, there were two versions of this:

and

I chose the second option. 
Then, about a week into the month a running/pilates friend mentioned In & Out Challenge.  This is where you put something "In" for fitness and take something "Out" that is bad.
I figured I was already doing the squats, but decided, "Hey, I am a glutton for punishment.  I think in addition to squats, I'll increase my running!"
For my "Out" I seriously contemplated taking out sugar - but I also wanted to be realistic that would not be a cold-turkey transition for me.
So, in an effort to curb sweets, I re-joined MyFitnessPal app, to monitor my food intake and portion control.  With my ocd personality, this can easily get out of hand, but I figure for one month, it is a good reminder of what I should be ingesting.

The month is over.  I can't say my derriere resembles the lady in the Squat Challenge, but I can now do over 200 squats and not want to die.  I have increased my running.  I had wanted to run every day - but that was just not possible with my schedule.  I've been monitoring my food, and was discouraged to realize I did need a refresher about portions. 

Overall, I think it was a good challenge month.  I don't know that I am going to stick with this routine, but maybe I will mix things up a bit more.  It was a good reminder in stretching my limits and myself both mentally and physically.  I like the In & Out concept, as it seems balanced, and I am all about balance.

 

What would be your In & Out?  How will you challenge yourself?

Shift Happens - Charity Chase Half Marathon

A math problem:
FITMama is going to run a half marathon.  The race begins at 6:30am.  She must check in at the race by 5:45am.  If the drive takes about one hour, what time does FITMama have to wake up in order to be at the race on time?

If you calculated the answer to be 4:00am, you would be correct.

I'm exhausted.

Let me give you some personal background though:
I have two sons.  A 7 year old and a 9 year old.  The 9 year old has "issues".  I put the issues in quotes because, well, we all have issues, right?  His issues are challenging, for him, and those around him. His diagnosis are:  ADHD, Aspergers, and Anxiety.  But really, he is who he is - no label needed.
And - I get him.  Why?  Because we are a lot alike.  The apple really does not fall far from this tree.

So, back to my race.  I get up at 4am.  I am ready to leave by 4:15am, which is what I was actually planning on (better early than late!).  As I go to grab my Garmin off the charger, it beeps at me.  What the ----?!  No battery?!  It has been plugged in all night!  Well, it's only at 1% power, for some reason that my brain cannot even begin to figure out at 4:17am.

I quickly change my heart rate monitor strap, and grab my Moto - which I unplugged to charge the Garmin.  Let me double check power - 70%.  That's enough to get me through the race, IF I don't use music.  Grrr.   So I grab my iPod, which I planned to use anyway.  Still, now, I am in a mood.

I hit the road.   Thirty minutes into this drive, and I am really worked up now about my Garmin not being charged, having to use my not fully charged Moto, mad at myself for not syncing my music onto the Moto so I could just use it there - and planning ahead to charge everything, just in case, for future races.

Then it hits me.  Why am I exhausting myself getting so worked up about all this?

My 9 year old has a very difficult time transitioning and handling unexpected things in life. . .especially, when, in his mind, it should go a certain way.  His Resource Teacher at school is helping to teach him how to shift.  She told his other teachers, and us, about shifting, and using that term, to help him when he gets "stuck" and needs to move on.  This way, we are all using the same term, to help guide him through his frustrations.

I tell my son to shift - a lot. Now it was time for me to listen to myself.  I needed to shift.  I needed to let go of my frustration, now anger, and move on.  There is nothing I can do about the Garmin at this point - shift happens.

I get to the race early and check-in.  It is dark out.  The volunteers have to use flashlights to read the check-in paperwork, and get me my stuff.  I question my sanity for getting up at this time.

A way cool tech shirt and Balega socks for check-in!

However, Charity Chase is one cool race.  The race is set up with local charities at almost every mile marker, to cheer on and support runners.  They wave signs, ring cowbells, yell out encouragement.  Some are dressed up in funny costumes, or shirts for their respective charity.  At the end, runners vote on the best charity support - and they get a donation from the race.  Pretty cool?  Win-win!

The race begins at 6:30am.  Before Mile 1 there is already a cheering section from a local Women's Group.  The race support is fantastic, which helps because the route is not scenic - through downtown Hickory. 

I'm feeling pretty good, other than the fact I really have to use the restroom.  Shift happens.

Mile 3 - my Moto is pretty much right on at 3.12 miles.  The cheering volunteers are so energetic, it really helps to motivate.

Mile 5 - we loop back to where we started.  There are bathrooms!  I quickly run into the restrooms, and am promptly hit in the face with a thick cloud of cigarette smoke!?  Ugh.  I hold my breath and go as fast as possible, and get back outside, but I am upset.  Now I reek of smoke.  Let it go.  Shift happens.

Still about Mile 5, and we run past the Finish Line.  That is just plain cruel.  I'm making great time.  Might I sub-2 this race?  Is it possible?

Mile 6 - We are on a busy road and luckily there is a lot of police support.  The cars are being held up, so the runners can go.  I am sure that is a pain on a Saturday morning, but these drivers are awesome!  They are all sticking their hands out the car windows to high five us as we run by!!!  Thanks local drivers, for being so understanding!

Mile 8 and I am feeling pretty good.  I keep locating runners ahead of me, set them in my sights, and do my best to catch up, eventually passing.  This course is hilly.  Very hilly.  But I am learning that I am actually better on hills than flat. 

Until.

Mile 11.  How wonderful that the Boy Scout charity support at this point has ice cold towels for us?  They do!  And it feels sooooo good.  Especially because - Mile 11 is uphill. . .the entire way.  Not cool.  The other not cool factor?  Either my watch is off or the race is off, but I compare with runners around me, and it seems that we are about .5 miles ahead of what the signs indicate.  In a 13.1 mile race, that is a lot.  But. . .

Shift happens.

I know before I get to the finish.
I'm not going to sub-2 this race.
I'm disappointed; I'm soaked with sweat and my feet hurt.


Shift happens, and I am pretty darn proud of myself for shifting and PR'ing by over 5+ minutes on a hilly course.