TRAILMOMMA

OH THE THINGS KIDS SAY

2012-01-26T11:28:00.001-08:00

I thought I figured out a way to post using the iPad with photos but alas, Blogger keeps freezing. Ugh.

So instead, I will post a funny story. This occurred on our drive home last night. The whole family was in the car driving home.

Peanut: Daddy?
Vans: Yes?
Peanut: Daddy, Squeaker is playing with your purse straps.
Me: giggling
Vans: My what!? No, no that is my computer bag. Not a purse and that's ok.
Peanut: Ok. Daddy?
Vans: Yes?
Peanut: Daddy now she is chewing your purse straps. Daddy she is eating your purse!!
Vans: It.is.not.a.purse!!!!
Me: Hysterically laughing.

Man I love kids!!

I have been doing a lot of running. A lot of thinking. A lot of soul searching. I am contemplating going back to school. Am I crazy!? Am I too old to change career paths!? I know I really do not want to go back to what I was doing. I would love to use what I spent four long years in college majoring in but this market is so bad and we live too far away for me to really get back into that field.

Decisions decisions. I am starting to feel the pressure and I really have no clue what is next in my life. Well, other than maybe another run tomorrow.

DOORS

2012-01-18T18:18:00.000-08:00

There has been an interesting change of events in the Trailmomma household. I cannot and won't go into details, but let's just say that I went for a 6 mile run today. By myself. Instead of working.

A friend of mine reminded me that "When one door closes another one opens." I hope she is right. I also hope my Mother-in-law is right. She has some crazy powers that lady.

I am surrounded by good people now. I have great supportive friends and family and although 2012 does not appear to be starting off any better, I have high hopes. The glass is half full in my eyes right now. "Someone" is definitely trying to send me a message and I think I am finally ready to listen.

However one unfortunate thing is that I no longer have an outlet to blog AND upload photos. The iPad is not capable of uploading photos ... Yet. I guess I have the time now to figure that out.

Here is to new beginnings.

LONG WEEKENDS

2012-01-17T11:09:00.000-08:00

I love long weekends. Usually I get a decent run in but this past weekend was really a mix of things. Friday after work I managed a 6 mile run with 2 miles at a tempo pace of 7:45. I felt great. Really strong in fact and the weather was perfect. I love starting my weekend off with those runs.

Saturday was a busy day so I could only manage about 6 miles but I ran with TiggerT bright and early. We had a nice run that included the Serrano hill in the middle. I wish I could have joined her and her running group (Java Joggers) on Sunday for their loop around Lake Natoma but Vans was going mountain biking and I was kid duty. The girls and I had fun which included a trip to Target.

Giggles all the way!

Squeaker is getting so big. She is semi-able to sit in the front of the shopping cart now but she tries to turn around to see the Peanut and eventually slumps down too far. She is also getting teeth (or something) because all weekend long her sleep has been terrible which means MY sleep has been terrible ... My heart aches for her though and the pain that comes with getting your first set of teeth. I just wish they'd arrive already!

Monday I had grand plans of running around Lake Natoma but then an opportunity presented itself Sunday afternoon and I jumped on it. Diane Cressey over at Folsom Breakout Fitness had a Martin Luther King Special: half off one of her TRX/Interval Training classes which included:

20 minutes of total body resistance training followed by 20 minutes of interval training. Maximize your muscle gains and fat loss! Interval training includes plyometrics, balance and agility work.

The first half of class we did some TRX work. I have a TRX at home but I wanted some additional insight into some new moves as well as how to properly do some of the moves that I have been doing lately. Oh boy. Um, yup, I have not been doing a lot of the moves correctly or at least my form was not correct. Simple things such as a bicep curl ... just one tweak in my stance has my biceps SCREAMING today. I wish I could take her TRX class more often but my schedule does not jive with the class schedule. After TRX we did some interval work using a bosu ball, some medicine balls, the TRX and the TRX Rip Trainer. Needless to say, my bum and every other part of my body is sore today.

While I was off doing that, Vans and the girls were home goofing around ....

Little Miss Cute who woke up early!

We have been working on a few house projects lately. It has been difficult juggling who watches the girls, who gets to work out and then Vans doing random house-hold projects like painting and yard work.

We have some colder weather coming this week too and I have a trail run planned tomorrow night with TiggerT and her Java Joggers ... should be interesting especially since the temps have been in the 20s and they are also calling for rain (finally!).

I also have to bite the bullet and look into the Crossfit classes that Vans purchased for me. I am a little scared as I have zero upper body strength ... which was made quite clear during Monday's class.

I mean really ... the only "lifting" I do these days is in the form of lifting these two ...

32 lbs & 17 lbs of cuteness!

FEELING BETTER

2012-01-09T10:37:00.000-08:00

Things are improving in the Trailmomma household. We had a good weekend. Let's recap ...

Friday, Squeaker was home with Vans. He took her to see the pediatrician but it turns out no ear infection ... just a regular cold but she is tons better today. After the visit to the pedi, Vans dropped her off at my office as I was getting out of work and he had to race to a meeting.

Squeaker and I took the jogger stroller to my old running location and busted out 6 miles! Afterwards I did some TRX strength moves at a nearby park.

Fitting it in the best I can.

Saturday was a busy day because Vans was participating in his first ever duathlon! TBF Racing hosts a free duathalon once a year. It consisted of a 2 mile run, a 7 mile bike ride followed by another 2 mile run. This may seem "easy" but Vans has never ever done anything of the sort. Sure he bikes and yes, he runs but he has never done a triathlon and has never run after biking ... as in ever. He was a bit nervous for this race because he had no idea what to expect.

Peanut & Squeaker bundled up waiting ...

Of course he did great. He experienced what it is like to cramp however during the transition when you are trying to put on your running shoes ... that part was not fun. It was also very cold Saturday morning but luckily, he finished before the strong winds came ....

Finished!.

Free food afterwards made it even better!

As always the Peanut was super excited to cheer Vans on ... she and the Squeaker are great when it comes to going to races and this race was very spectator friendly. While at the race, I ran into my new running partner TiggerT and she told me that her running group, the Java Joggers, were meeting on Sunday at the Fish Hatchery to run around Lake Natoma.

I thought about it and thought about it and was actually going to pass when it hit me on Saturday evening .... do it! You deserve it! I was a little worried about the distance since most of my runs have been in the 6 to 8 mile range but I figured, why not .... So bright and early Sunday morning I met the Java Joggers at the Fish Hatchery for a run. It was cold but it felt great!

We ran 11.66 miles around the lake and I felt amazing. I did not have one issue. No tummy troubles, no aches or pains ... not even a negative thought! I was on a total high and enjoying the company of those I was running with. Gosh how I missed running longer distances .... for fun!

While I was gone ... Vans and the girls were getting into some mischief.

Guess who is mobile now?

Squeaker is still rolling but she's also doing the army crawl thing a bit now too. All she does is look for her sister and then makes her way over to her ...

See.

The Peanut was too busy "creating" art to really notice her sister ....

Ta-Da! Such an artiste!

(and still obsessed with Christmas)

When I arrived home the girls were happy and the house wasn't entirely trashed ... I consider that a win win situation.

She loves her .... now

Later in the day we headed down to Sacramento for the CHP car seat inspection at Mel Rapton Honda. I just like to have our seats checked from time to time. This time, I am glad that I did. I knew that Squeaker's seat was semi-expired (yes, car seats apparently expire - they can last 5 years). Well, Squeaker's seat was VERY expired so much in fact that the CHP confiscated it! Yup, they took away our car seat ... and gave us a brand new one...for FREE!!!!! They installed it too. Sweet deal!

We then headed home after visiting with Grandma and Poppa. Vans went on a mountain bike ride while the Peanut and I got to work. She loves to bake and instead of an "Easy Bake Oven" for Christmas, Santa provided her with simple baking mixes like brownies and cookies. I let her go to town and bake her very own brownies. Jersey Gramie made her this neat apron for Christmas which she is obsessed with.

How cute!?

She made the brownies all by herself. I simply would measure out the ingredients and she would add and stir. They are not gluten free so I couldn't give them a taste but both Vans and the Peanut said they were VERY good! Squeaker is also gluten free for now (and a little young) so she also could not give them a taste test ...

Whatch-you talkin about mom?

Overall it was a great weekend. When I can get runs in without missing more than two days in between I always feel better. We shall see what this week brings in terms of workouts ... I have high hopes.

SMUDGING

2012-01-05T09:23:00.000-08:00

Wow. I did not realize I have not posted anything in the "New Year." It is easy to not post as much when you do not have a computer at home and you are not running as much (aka not really having a reason to post). However, I should post something as this is supposed to be a "new" and "better" year right?

The Friday before New Years started off great. I was able to get in 6 miles on my old bike trail route before picking up the girls at daycare. It is the one time during the week that I get a little "me time" and I love it.

Happy to see Momma!

New Years Eve day I was home for a bit and then had to go to work at my part-time/once in a while job. It had been a while since I've seen the crew. Despite a horrendous game, it was fun to see the old gang again. I was able to make it home by 9:00 pm and just in time to say good night to the Peanut before ringing in the New Year with Vans.

New Years Day started off with a nice 8 mile run for me on some fire road trails near my house. I even busted out my new trail shoes because I miss wearing trail shoes (they weren't necessary for the terrain but it was nice to wear them).

Brooks Adrenaline ASR - heaven!

Right after our incident, a good friend of mine sent me a present to help change the recent string of bad luck we have had lately. She told me that we needed to get the "bad ju-ju" out of our house and so she purchased me a "smudge" so that we could smudge our house and chase out the bad ju-ju. Hey, I was game. Sure it sounded bizarre but at that point we really couldn't say no because things just kept getting worse and worse in our house.

Vans and I waited until January 1st, New Years Day to smudge. We figured it was a good way to welcome the New Year.

Smuding the house!

The Peanut enjoyed smudging with me.

I can see why the bad ju-ju goes away ... the smell of the smudge was terrible! It is basically bound up sage but when lit ... holy heaven it stank up our house something awful! We eventually had to open the windows and turn on the house fan to get the smell out! Bad ju-ju be gone!

The rest of the weekend was spent doing some fun things like fooling around on the Peanut's new art easel from Santa ... I have to say, she's quite talented for a 3 year old ...

Santa ...and a few other people

She drew me, Vans (complete with mohawk) and herself

on a skateboard with Squeaker "sleeping" above us

We all had Monday off. Vans got in a nice mountain bike ride while I rearranged furniture in our house trying to make our upstairs more functional. Later we ventured to Costco. This is how we roll at Costco ... using our jogging stroller ....

Squeaker's socks make her look like that scene in The Wizard of Oz!

Needless to say, back to work on Tuesday and life's been a struggle since then. Tuesday resulted in no workouts for me because the Peanut had evening swim lessons. Wednesday I got motivated (and Squeaker slept well) and I lifted some weights in the morning and then ran 3.5 hilly miles with my running partner after work.

Unfortunately, Squeaker was up all night last night which resulted in me sleeping with her in a recliner chair from midnight to 5:30 am when I had to get ready for work. Not fun and it also meant no morning workout as planned. If I want to get anything in tonight (which should be my TRX) I will have to do it when both girls are asleep tonight ... after 8:30 pm. I don't enjoy that but things are kind of crazy right now and I need to relieve some stress.

Despite high hopes for this New Year ... there is an ugly situation that I am currently dealing with on a daily basis. I am kind of just waiting for something to erupt or explode but never knowing when it might happen or if it will happen. I am just trying to take it day by day.

I am trying to have a better attitude about my commute as well but on days when I have just a few hours of sleep, miss a workout and feel like I am being tugged in a million directions it is hard. I honestly regret our move and oddly enough, Vans has found peace with it ... although Vans can workout at lunch, Vans doesn't have to commute as far, Vans doesn't have to feed Squeaker all night long ... but Vans does have to hear me and deal with me. He's a great help and a great Dad. I am not ragging on him but sometimes, I wish that men could either nurse or multi-task.

Happy New Years Blog World

CHRISTMAS RECAP & NEW TOYS

2011-12-29T12:21:00.000-08:00

Christmas came and went in our house rather quickly but it was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

He came!

This was the first time the Peanut "really" understood and was excited for Santa. We did the Elf on the Shelf thing starting December 1st and that really REALLY made Christmas seem to ~~drag on~~ last forever.

Fortunately for us she slept in until about 7 am (her usual time) and we heard her squeal from the living room with excitement. Unfortunately for her, we made her wait until Squeaker woke up (on her own) which was not until 8 am. Torture!

Squeaker and I had a nice trip to Kaiser on Christmas Eve Day ... never doubt a mother's intuition. I knew something was not right with her despite being fever-less ... sure enough, she had an ear infection and is now on antibiotics. Luckily, the antibiotics kicked in really quickly.

Christmas morning was wonderful. The Peanut enjoyed opening her AND Squeaker's presents. We Skyped with my family on the east coast and opened more gifts and then had our California family over for dinner and opened even more presents.

The Peanut and I made cookies for the family & of course for Santa.

I hope he isn't diabetic

We made one for Dad.

I also made dinner for the entire family. It was great having Saturday free to prep everything and then just tossing it all in the oven on Christmas morning.

Regular & Gluten Free/Vegan Baked Ziti

YUM!

Santa was good to all of us. Vans got a new Garmin watch for his training (which, ahem, still sits unopened in its packaging on his night stand) and I got a few nice things as well including a work out bench!

I have been wanting one of those for a while. I have been using my stability ball for most of my dumbbell moves but this bench is nice and compact and convenient. Santa also got me something I have wanted forever ... well, to be honest, I got myself this but Santa needs to attach it to the ceiling to make it work better.

TRX

Since I have had limited time to run due to my long commute and just having to be a mom in the evenings, having these tools in our garage gym have been a life saver. Of course I still miss running. I haven't abandoned running all together mind you ... I just don't do it has often as I would like.

Right now I am running two nights a week with a friend which has been great. She is super flexible in her schedule and is patient with me and my commute and my evening mommy duties. Last night we ran for 4 miles in the dark decked out in our headlamps and reflective gear. Once school is back in session we plan to maybe hit the high school track once a week and do some speed work.

On the nights I don't run I try and spend at least 45 minutes in the garage doing some TRX moves as well as some moves with my dumbbell set (purchased on craigslist) and squats. I did the TRX on Tuesday evening and my bum is still a bit sore but in a good way. I am looking forward to using it tonight.

Work lately has been very very stressful and without these outlets I don't think I would be handling it all very well. I also don't think without my wonderful girls in my life would I be as sane as I am.

The Peanut in SF

Having Monday off was great as well. Vans took the Peanut to San Francisco to see The Grinch play and she was in heaven. Vans was exhausted. While those two were off playing in the city, Squeaker and I were playing around at home.

Always smiling!

Squeaker and I went on a nice 5 mile run too with the jogging stroller. She loves it (lucky for me) and I needed a good run.

The Trailmomma family is hoping that the New Year brings us some better mojo. We had a rough 2011. Oddly, it is starting out with me working New Years Eve and Vans getting oral surgery the first few weeks of the New Year but beyond that ... bring on the happy, healthy vibes!

Happy New Year Everyone!

STILL AROUND

2011-12-20T11:28:00.000-08:00

I am still here. I just haven't been running much more than one day a week so I really haven't had that much to blog about.

However, I realize it is the holidays and I do have two adorable little girls and that a lot of my audience tunes in just to see what THEY are up to and not just what I have been doing running wise lately. Which is good because the running is almost zero but the girls are keeping me busy.

Surrounded by friends

Earlier last week the Peanut gathered all her favorite stuffed friends on the couch so that they could all enjoy Frosty Returns. Much to my delight, the Peanut is very into Frosty the Snowman and anything Rudolph lately. Love. The holidays are so much fun with her this year.

I was contacted by Tigger T via email asking me if I wanted to go running sometime. She's read my blog posts and my posts about not finding time to run and/or lack of motivation. She's great. She knows that if someone is out there waiting for you, you won't bail on a run. She also was anxious to show me some neat trails around the neighborhood. So after a few quick texts on Friday, we agreed to meet at the almost half way point between our homes and she'd show me some trails.

We met at 8 am on Saturday morning. It was chilly but it felt great to be out there with some fresh air. We jumped onto the NY Creek Trail and then up towards a fire-road that lead us towards Serrano. I had no idea this fire road trail was even there. It was great. We'd run, we'd walk, we'd talk. It was exactly what I needed to get my motivation back. I miss running so much.

When I arrived home, Vans informed me that the Peanut was being a bit fussy which is unlike her. Friday was her 6 month check up complete with three shots. She did great but I think was starting to feel the affects of those shots.

Doesn't she look like she's fussing? ha

The girl is still pretty darn cute even when she isn't feeling 100%. However, this little episode of fussiness would eventually come to blows on Sunday when Vans left for a 3 hour mountain bike ride.

Squeaker got her first real fever ... until now, she's never really had much more than a bad cold sans fever but come Sunday ... her temperature rose to 102.7. Poor girl. She still was okay and smiling some what but she would not let you put her down period. She napped on my lap.

Vans took the Peanut to visit the REI Family because she's been asking daily to see Little REI.

I think she just wanted to ride her bike.

This was good though because it allowed the Peanut some time away from a sick Squeaker and hopefully avoid passing the cold onto each other. Instead, I am now the lucky recipient of said cold. Ugh.

By evening time though, Squeaker was dosed up with some Tylenol and feeling a bit better. She allowed me to put her down but I had to stay close by ... so I had to get creative so that I could cook dinner for Vans and the Peanut.

My little helper

She was content playing with those measuring spoons and cup for a good 20 minutes allowing me time to chop, toss and bake whatever I needed to in order to get dinner started before the family came home.

Monday however, she and I were home. I officially have her cold and she officially no longer has a fever but remained quite clingy. It was a long day on Monday complete with more naps in my lap and lots of snuggles.

Before bed I gave her a bath and discovered that she is in fact part baby and part fish. The minute I put her into the water she flipped onto her belly and literally swam her way to the rubber ducky in the tub. She swallowed a big gulp of water in the process but was completely un-phased. This summer is going to be fun!

Steaming it out in the bathroom post bath.

Today we're all back to the normal routine ... daycare, work, commuting. Blah. The Peanut is anxiously counting the days until Santa comes .... and I am anxiously counting the days until cold and flu season is over!

Happy Holidays!

ANY GIVEN SUNDAY

2011-12-12T09:14:00.000-08:00

Saturday was the Rancho Cordova PAL Holiday Run 5k/10k. Vans's work is one of the major sponsors for this race and Vans himself was in charge of organizing and encouraging his work staff to participate. He actually made a wager with his staff that if anyone could beat him in the 5k, he would do their job for one hour. He works with a lot of 20 something college kids so this was a big gamble. He was potentially looking a 35 to 40 hours of extra work if they all beat him. He was nervous and battling a cold.

Vans also signed the Peanut up for the kids quarter mile chase Santa race and he signed me up for the 5k as well.

However, Squeaker is once again very sick with a terrible head and chest cold and was up all night long the night before the race. I was up with her from 11:30 pm to 1:00 am and then slept with her in my lap in a recliner from 1 am to 6 am when we had to get up and get ready to head to the race. Brutal.

The REI family was kind enough to let us borrow their double jogger so that I could run with both girls and participate as well. It was really chilly Saturday morning.

Squeaker was bundled up nice and warm!

Peanut getting ready for her race!

The race was fairly small. Not a lot of people heading out to Rancho Cordova but it makes for an easy race logistically especially for families.

Racing Family

The Peanut's race was cute. Santa and Mrs. Claus were in a golf cart and all the kids had to chase after them. They had a quarter mile and half mile option. Since the Peanut has not been "training" we had her run the quarter mile distance.

Lining up to chase Santa!

Running with Dad!

On her way to the finish!

All done. Loving her medal.

After the Peanut's race it was time to head to line for the 5k/10k start. Vans made his way to the front so he did not have to fight the crowd. I took the double jogger and just found a spot that was not too far back but was not going to bump into people.

The race course is pretty boring but definitely flat. I was able to jump to the side with my beast of a jogger so that I didn't have to run into too many runners. I just kept pushing and running and realized I was passing a lot of people. They were not too happy to be passed by a girl pushing a double stroller.

Vans ended up PR'ing and only one employee beat him! His time was 21:17 which is a 6:52 minute mile. Go Vans!

Considering this was my first ever double jogger race, I guess you can say I PR'd too!

Heading to the finish.

My time was 26:07 which is an 8:25 minute mile ... pushing a 35 lb three year old and a 17 lb six month old, PLUS the weight of the stroller ... yup, that thing is heavy!

Vans was happy. He had a good race and a nice work turnout and he doesn't have to do 40 hours of someone else's job.

Sunday was a lot lower key than Saturday. It was also my birthday. We basically did what we do every other Sunday ... head to Costco and drive down to Sacramento to visit with my inlaws. Whatever. Just add that on to the craptastic year I have had thus far. No real surprise it was over looked.

However, being a year old I am now entering a new age bracket when it comes to races. I am now the young old person in my age group. If I can ever get back into running and racing I might stand a chance to actually do well in a few races.

CIM

2011-12-05T10:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the California International Marathon (CIM). As I said on Friday, I was headed downtown to packet pick-up and was going to turn in my chip....and I did.

I could not ignore the signs that were being thrown at me. I started coughing like crazy and when I arrived home on Friday evening I lost my voice completely. Saturday I was worse. Bronchitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis ... you name it and I probably have it.

Oddly enough, I was okay with the decision. At the expo I ran into some of my Fleet Feet Running friends who were rather shocked and sad I was turning in my chip. I never really teared up but I was glad I was feeling as crappy as I was because the energy at the expo would have surely convinced me otherwise had I not been so sick.

I went home Friday evening and after the kid were asleep, I had a large glass of wine. I don't recommend doing that when your throat is raw and on fire but ... it helped in other ways.

Saturday we spent the day with some friends who were in town. They had arrived to do the marathon but unfortunately one of them fell injured and she too had to turn in her chip at the expo. Misery loves company right?

The two DNS runners

Ironically enough, after having dinner with this couple the Peanut fell asleep on the 5 minute ride home. At 6:45 pm!!! She did not wake up until 7:30 the next morning! In all of her 3.5 years of life, that has never ever happened!

Sunday we all woke up and got dressed in our Rock On Dylan shirts and headed downtown to cheer on all the marathoners. I saw Garmin out running and sporting his Dylan shirt! It actually made me tear up when I saw him. Not because I was jealous of him being able to run the marathon but because he was running for Dylan and he looked awesome. I also saw Miss P out there who I had also run into at the expo and who was very sympathetic to my having to turn in my chip. Miss P you looked great!!

I saw a bunch of my Buffalo Chip buddies just killing it out there. The weather conditions were fantastic! I probably stood out on the street near 15th and L for hours. The Peanut and Vans and company were inside a local bar having breakfast but not me. Squeaker and I just stood out there yelling and clapping (well, I clapped, she drooled on my shirt).

Go runners go!

I saw a large amount of runners wearing Nike Frees and other light weight minimalist shoes. My knees ached just watching them but they were flying.

Everyone looked great but also ready to be done. That stretch down L street can be painful both physically and mentally. You start to count down the blocks because they are numbered but you forget how long each block is downtown.

We saw friends doing the relay too including The Pinkhouse Gym Relay Team whose fourth runner was our dear friend Sally Edwards.

The average age for this relay team was 71. Just.plain.awesome.

A lot of friends called or texted me to make sure I was doing okay on Sunday. They know how much this race means to me. CIM 2012 unfortunately will not happen because I'll be at my brother's wedding in New Jersey. As I said on Friday, I have my sights on a June marathon and hope to do well. Fingers crossed.

The rest of the weekend was spent resting. Vans unfortunately now has the same horrid cold that I have ... which is still hanging on. I do have my voice back but the coughing is terrible and I wish I could just cut out my throat entirely.

This weekend we have 5K/10K race that Van's is helping put on with his work. He has a big bet on his performance with his work staff .... not so sure how that will work out with his cold. The Peanut, Squeaker and I are hoping to borrow a double jogger from the REI family so that we can also compete. The Peanut might also participate in a kids fun run .... we may be down but we're not out.

The family that runs together...

Tis the holiday season for running no? Oh and for also torturing your baby sister .... I left the room for a few minutes on Saturday and returned to find this ....

Ho Ho Ho Mom

Despite being dressed with funny reindeer bobbly heads,

Squeaker still idolizes her sister.

Who has a very devilish smile ...

FIRST EVER DNS?

2011-12-02T10:42:00.000-08:00

Today is CIM packet pick up. At 3:00 pm today I will have to finally decide whether or not I am running CIM on Sunday. Will I turn my chip in and have my first official Did Not Start?

So many of you have emailed me with your thoughts, opinions and concerns. This girl really laid it out for me. "Would you give up running completely for one race?" Heck no. Yet this girl commented and emailed me telling me how much faith she has in me and my ability.

I know that I could run CIM with lack of quality training (pathetic at best). I have endurance. I can handle pain and I could probably make it the whole 26.2 miles whether it took four or five hours. The question is: Do I WANT to do that? Do I want to potentially injure myself preventing me from running future races/marathons? In 2005 I ran CIM thinking I was perfectly trained only to bonk hard at mile 20 and be injured for many months afterwards. Trailmomma not running at all does not make a happy Trailmomma house hold.

I have been battling a cold. Squeaker has been sick since November 11th and as a mom, I have become her human tissue at times (it comes with the job). It was inevitable that I also got sick. It has taken its time though. A runny nose here. A sore throat there. Yesterday however I was hit with a fever and a progressing cough. I can pretty much bet that I now officially have bronchitis and probably a sinus infection to boot.

Running CIM with half of my lung capacity is not something I want to try. Not to mention I would be that horrible coughing runner you see out there and pass thinking "What are they doing!? Go home and rest already!?"

This is a hard thing for me to do. I have never not started a race but I do believe that is what I need to do. Does this make me a chicken? Maybe. Does this make me a more mature runner? Perhaps. One will never know I guess and the only person beating me up about this decision is ME. Vans is supportive either way but he wants me to be smart AND healthy. Is it worth risking pneumonia? Yes I am wasting money but luckily I signed up for the race the day it opened and paid the lowest fee possible. I will not be running CIM in 2012 because I will be attending my dear brother's wedding in New Jersey that weekend. I did not run last year because I was pregnant. This will be the longest break from CIM I have ever taken.

I have my sights set on a marathon in late June. I am not committing to it yet (lesson learned) but I am excited to kick this cold and put away my Garmin and just run for ME. Ideally I would like to run the marathon in June well ... I would love to find someone who could help me train .... keep me accountable and push me so that I can perhaps PR and (gasp) maybe even qualify for Boston. Any takers out there?

First I need to get past today's CIM Expo. I love race Expos and I need the strength and support to not get sucked up into the race day excitement and not turn my chip into the officials. There is a possibility that I could arrive at the expo, see some running buddies who will convince me that I can do the race. Please give me the strength to say "no" ... maybe the coughing fit I am bound to have will be proof enough? They might not even let me inside to pick up my bib if I am coughing. There is nothing marathoners hate more than to be around someone who is sick.

Children aside of course. I could never not be around my two beautiful girls. Who, by the way, just had their Fall photos taken at school .... (again sorry for the crappy quality).

Peanut (3.5 yrs old)

Squeaker (now 5 months old)

KEEP ON KEEPING ON

2011-11-28T09:19:00.000-08:00

Well if you read my last post, things are not exactly "happy" around the Trailmomma household but things are not sad either. Vans and I are trying to keep things up beat for the girls especially since it is getting to be that festive time of year. I admit, Vans is doing a better job than I as I really have no desires to celebrate or buy anything "new" since at any moment, it can be stolen or taken away. However, when it comes to the Peanut and Squeaker, I don't mind shopping for fun stuff especially for the holidays.

The Thanksgiving holiday was pretty busy for us which was a very nice distraction. We did a lot of new things with the girls which was nice but sadly we are reminded every time we want to take a photo to remember the event, that the only cameras we have are our outdated iPhones which I guess is better than nothing at all.

So please excuse the fuzzy phone pictures that follow ... our Thanksgiving weekend ....

It started with the Run to Feed the Hungry 10K ... in the pouring freezing rain. Vans and I started at my in laws house which is 1.5 miles to the start. So overall, we ran about 9 miles that day pushing the girls in strollers. They were toasty and warm ... Vans and I were not.

Starting area ...

Ready to run ...it was cold!

We ran the entire way and were faster than some of the other 10K runners who were not pushing strollers. They have changed the 10K course which was a nice surprise and there were a lot more people running the 10K than I have ever remembered.

The best part was the Mimosa Station at mile 6!

Cheers!

It would not be a Run to Feed the Hungry with out Mimosas!

Crossing the finish line!

We crossed the finish line and made our way to the post race area which was nice but wet, cold and crowded. We ran the 1.5 miles back to my in laws to dry off and warm up. Squeaker was thrilled to be celebrating her first Run to Feed the Hungry race!

Yea!!!

The rest of Thanksgiving was spent visiting family. We saw Pam's Aunt and we saw my in laws. Lots of driving made for a very long day for the girls but they were troopers.

On Friday Biceps and Sarcasm invited us to Apple Hill to go Christmas Tree picking with them. I was hesitant at first to go just because I had not found my holiday mojo yet but it turned out to be a terrific day.

Nope. Not that tree.

How about this one Daddy?

After picking out our tree we were treated to a train ride! Unfortunately the train was being driven by a grumpy smelly Santa who was not in the festive mood and left a scarring impression the Peanut. She's been very receptive to the phrase "Santa is watching" lately and I have to say it is quite effective especially when you tell her that you have Santa on speed dial on your phone and can call him at a moment's notice. Yet when she is picturing the Santa we saw on Friday .... it was not a good thing.

Choo Choo!

After our train ride we stopped and filled up on all the goodies that Apple Hill has to offer. Then we visited our friends at our favorite Camino winery and just enjoyed the afternoon.

Saturday morning I went for a run to test my legs. Last week CIM was still very much on the table but now I am not so sure. I have some how thrown my back out of whack to the point that I can barely pick up the girls. It does not hurt to run but after I run (although it spasms) I am in pain. I am also battling a chest cold. Tomorrow I am getting a massage from the ever amazing Lily in hopes that she can work out whatever is going on with my back. My body is saying "don't run" but my mind is saying "run, you need this" ... however, our 2011 has been crap-tastic thus far so perhaps ending it with CIM is not the best idea? Stay tuned on this one.

Our Saturday was spent doing a few shopping errands and then Vans and the Peanut headed out to the El Dorado Hell's (not a typo - it is my new name for the town) annual Tree Lighting and for Santa's arrival. Once again, the Peanut was going to meet Santa and I had high hopes that it would be a better experience. Unfortunately there were so many kids that Santa shunned the Peanut and her friends which once again just deflated her. Poor girl. I have big hopes that when Santa visits our neighborhood in a few weeks, that he will give her the time of day.

Sunday came and the girls and I headed to Foresthill to deliver a casserole to a friend who had just had back surgery. The Peanut is in love with them and their dogs ... but especially with their horse. She had a blast and it was a beautiful day. We could not stay too long because Vans was waiting for us.

In an effort to continue to keep things festive ... we decorated our house for Christmas which is way earlier than we normally do and we put up our Christmas lights to show those thieves and the neighbors that we are still going to celebrate the holiday season (again, thank Vans for this one).

The Peanut refuses to give up our pumpkins though.

See Squeaker ... this is a pumpkin!

We'll just continue to try making this the best holiday we can for the sake of the girls.

Vans - we need to replace that strand! :-)

BREAK

2011-11-18T22:08:00.001-08:00

It is with a very heavy heart that I must share that the Trailmomma blog will be taking a break.

We have been the victim of a robbery. Thieves have invaded our home and have stolen all of our electronic devices (minus our phones). These computers, cameras and other items contained personal information as well as all of the baby photos for the Peanut and Squeaker. All of our memories are gone.

They also have stolen jewelry given to me by my mother that is irreplaceable. Items Vans has given to me over the years are also gone.

We have our health and we have amazing friends but we have a long road ahead of us involving identity theft companies, credit companies and insurance companies.

The girls are safe and so far clueless (we hope). These horrid thieves used the Peanut's new flannel pillow case to remove the loot.

I hope karma works and that they get what is coming to them. Today I ran 12 miles in the rain. It was more of a stress reliever than a training run but it was well needed.

CIM is going to be the toughest 26.2 I have ever run. My head and heart are so far out of a marathon mindset it is just silly.

But somehow, I feel the need to try. This year needs to end on a positive note. We are taking any and all prayers.

Sincerely - Trailmomma and Family

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

CLARKSBURG COUNTRY RUN RACE REPORT

2011-11-14T10:45:00.000-08:00

It was the best of times .... it was the worst of times ... yesterday was definitely the worst. Ever.

I've bonked in a race before. CIM 2005 actually. It was at mile 20 and it was awful. Yesterday, I would not necessarily say I was bonking ... whatever it was though it beat me up physically and mentally.

The weekend started out happy enough. The girls and I were off on Friday for Veteran's Day. We ran a lot of errands together which was nice. Both Squeaker and the Peanut started showing signs of runny noses, hoarse voices and fussiness. I also was starting to feel the twinges of a sore throat and just overall tiredness.

Still smiling even though she is not feeling well.

I tried keeping things low key on Friday which means letting the Peanut watch a little more tv than usual. She did not watch tv all day though. Thursday was Crazy Hat day at school and she spent all day Friday wearing her "crazy hat" that she made which is really just a sparkly "crown."

She put "jewels" on it.

Vans had a soccer game on Friday evening so it was just us girls well into the evening. Talk about an exhausting day but these two were just laughing it up ....

Sisters...

Too funny.

Saturday morning I attempted to go out for a short run to shake the legs out. Due to work issues and a terrible commute ... I basically had 3 treadmill miles on my legs all week long. Not a good thing when you are training for a marathon AND have a 20 miler that weekend. My run on Saturday was okay. Things were achy but it felt good to get outside.

Later that day we went and watched Biceps run the Folsom Point 50K at a spot over near our house. The course ran into the Salmon Falls area which I have never run but looked quite pretty. I might have to go explore that area some time. Regardless it was a mile plus hike in the woods with a 3.5 year old and a 5 month old, both who were sick. That's a recipe for disaster and tears if I ever heard one. Biceps did great though and finished second in her age group!

Vans then took the Peanut to see Grandma while I tried to get Squeaker to take something that resembled a nap. Poor kid cannot breathe out her nose to even settle herself. While she napped however, I also napped. I needed it. I've been burning the candle at both ends and with a sore throat looming I just wanted to rest.

I cannot imagine how Sunday's race would have gone had I not had two naps on Saturday (yes, two mini naps but they were heaven).

I bailed on my plans to stay at a friend's house in Elk Grove because Squeaker was sick and needed me. I ended up waking up quite a bit that night (3 times total) but when I left the house at 7 am I felt okay. Fairly rested and anxious to just get to Clarksburg which is about 45 minutes from the house.

I arrived, parked in a great spot and ventured into the high school to get my race stuff. The porta potty lines were already getting long so I jumped in line. Then I went back to my car to take care of my mommy stuff, change out of my compression socks and into my shoes and basically get focused.

It has been a few years since I have done the Clarksburg Country Run. It is a great race that has a 5K, 10K, Half-Marathon and a 20 Mile (and relay) option. The race falls 3 weeks before CIM which is great because almost everyone doing the 20 miler you can bet is running CIM in three weeks. It is a great training run. If it wasn't for the 20 miles in Clarksburg I probably would not manage a 20 miler before running CIM. It forces me to run at least 20 miles and that is why every time I run CIM, I run Clarksburg.

They changed the starting location from when I ran it last but I didn't mind. It was actually easier. The first few miles I spent shaking out some twinges in my legs but I felt okay. My garmin froze on me before leaving the car and I realized that it had been frozen the entire time it sat in its charger so it started beeping at me at mile 4 that the battery was dying. Somewhere between miles 8 and 9 it died completely which in hind sight, was probably a good thing otherwise I might have died watching how slow my miles were getting as the race moved on.

Yet, miles 1 through 8 were between an 8:30 and 8:40 pace and I felt okay. I even felt okay at mile 10 where you essentially "turn around" and head back. The only downer at that point however was the fact that we (it seemed) were running straight into a head wind. If it wasn't hitting us straight on, it was hitting us from the side. This run is on old country roads that are not evenly paved and very concave making it quite the problem for people who suffer from knee and ankle issues. It also is like a wind tunnel in some areas with the wind just blowing straight across. Brutal.

Around mile 10 though you pass a lot of runners as it is a loop and I saw Miss P and a few Buffalo Chippers out there and that made me smile. Miss P looked super strong.

I, however, was starting to fade. I had taken a gel at mile 8 and then again at mile 13 and was planning on taking my third at mile 18. I also at mile 12 took a salt tab as I started to feel some twinges in my calves and quads. It felt as if at any moment, they would seize up into massive cramps. I have never had this happen in a race but I have seen it happen to many. It does not look pretty. The salt seemed to help a little or maybe it was mental, who knows.

However when I hit mile 14 things started to fall apart. I had taken a gel at 13 and then I also took another salt tab around mile 14 because again, my legs started to cramp ever so slightly. The weather was glorious but it also started getting a tad warm. I had Smart Water in my water bottle that I had been drinking all race. Not sure if that "electrolyte water" is a hoax or not but I figured why not, water is water at least.

I told myself I could have another gel at mile 16 instead of 18 just to play with my head. Mentally I was starting to lose steam. A few girls that I had passed, passed me on this stretch and that deflated me. I was not out there racing anyone, including myself but just being passed no matter what the situation, is rough. Physically, I was shot. Tigger T passed me too some where in this horrible stretch and bless her heart, she yelled "C'mon Trailmomma!" but I was too far gone at that point. I wanted to run fast with her. She looked strong.

Mile 16 I took my gel and walked. I tried so hard not to walk but I did when taking my final gel. Just as I had suspected, it was hard to start again but it was also too painful to walk. I kept going. I just kept telling myself "you can do this, you can do this" and I trudged on. Mile 18 I walked again. I actually took some Gatorade from an aid-station because I was grasping at straws even though I know it was just too late. My legs were d-o-n-e. Mile 19 I took the earphones out of my ears afraid that my play list would repeat one more time. I also thought that if I could hear the crowd, the announcer, anything that it would help propel me to the finish line.

I crossed the finish line at 3:08 with a 9:26 average pace. Ironically, that is the pace my training plan said I should run ... if I was still following my training plan. I have never thrown up from a race before but I was very very close at the end of this race. My legs seized and I just kept moving. I knew if I stopped or sat down, it was bad news. Tigger T found me post race and reminded me that there are going to be many CIM's down the road.

She is right. After yesterday's race I had pretty much decided that I might not run CIM in three weeks. As painful as yesterday was, there was no way I could manage another 6.2 miles without walking most if not all of that. However, I also remember saying this the last time I ran this race ... but my pace was way better in 2009 despite a real injury.

I am sort of in a holding pattern right now. I came home to an unhappy family. The cranky sick kids and the stress of dealing with that was a bit much for Vans. I don't feel like I have much of a support system right now and that my running is not only causing family stress, I am stressed. Running is not fun right now. I have a few big decisions to make about my running future in the next few weeks but I am putting off making anything final until after December 4, 2011 ... the California International Marathon. I realize now that even though I have three weeks until CIM, I need to spend it running even if I am in taper mode.

After the race I stood in our ice cold pool for quite a while to ease off any pending aches and pains. It seemed to help as I am not that sore today. I will probably take today off from running and then try and resume my training hopefully doing a better job than I have this past month. My scratchy throat seems to have returned although it could be because I am constantly surrounded by sick kids....

with lots of snot....

HODGE PODGE

2011-11-08T12:23:00.000-08:00

I have not been feeling like blogging lately. There is just a lot going on and very little time to post it seems. Yet, I know I have a few loyal readers (hello Debbie the Great Aunt & Pam's Aunt!!!) that really look forward to my posts ... or maybe they look forward to the photos .... either way, I do not want to disappoint.

This weekend was really busy but busy in a good way. On Friday after my office closed, I went on a nice two hour run on the FLAT bike trail near our old house. It was glorious. The weather was perfect, I felt great and I was happy to get my long run out of the way because we had a very big weekend ahead of us.

Saturday morning the family woke up and went out for a family breakfast. Our weeks are generally slam packed with racing here and racing there (mainly to daycare and work) that when evening time comes, I am totally spent and Squeaker is pretty done too. Last week was her first full week at daycare so having a little breakfast celebration was perfect.

Family breakfast at The Purple Place

You cannot really tell in that photo but the Peanut's pancake is ginormous AND delivered with a "happy face" of whip cream on top. Way to start the day with lots of sugar.

After breakfast the Peanut and I had to get ready as we had a mother daughter date planned. A few months ago, I saw a flyer for Beauty and the Beast showing at the Three Stages El Dorado Musical Theater in Folsom. The Peanut is in quite the "princess phase" lately and really enjoys the movie Beauty and the Beast (we had a boot leg copy and have since lost it - oh the drama in our house right now). She was very excited to get dressed up to see her very first play!

Pretty in Pink

Sporting Pink Vans too.

We arrived at the theater a little bit early because I thought they'd have something for the kids to do. They didn't, other than a few photo stills hanging in the lobby ... which was great because I think the Peanut had no idea what to expect. When I said "theater" I believe she thought she was seeing a movie even though we tried to tell to her that was not the case.

When the lights dimmed and the play began, the Peanut was quiet. She preferred to sit in the chair verses on my lap even though her vision was slightly blocked by a woman wearing a hat (please people, do not wear hats to plays geared toward children). She would gasp and smile and clap at the end of each of the scenes. She was so happy.

Intermission came (finally) and she wanted "snacks" and the like. Luckily mom brought a stash from home because theater snacks will cost you an arm and a leg these days. She could not wait however, to get back into the theater!

When the show was over she was eager to leave. I think sitting that long was a lot to ask of a three and a half year old. The second half she fidgeted a lot more and her voice was no longer a whisper when she would ask me questions ... like "Mommy, why isn't Belle's dress orange?" and "Mommy, that Beast is different from the "other" Beast."

But when we walked out into the lobby and saw this ....

Photo ops with Belle and the Beast!?

The Peanut nudged her way as close to Belle as she could. She was bumped and pushed and hit in the head with purses yet she would not leave until she had her photo taken with Belle.

She was happy despite her face.

I love that she needed to put on her fairy wings too in order to take the above photo. Precious. She also said she enjoyed the musical and that she would go and see more with me. Vans is finally off the hook ... Trailmomma loves musicals.

Sunday was an equally busy day. Daylight savings means nothing to a four month old. Nothing. They wake and sleep whenever they feel like but the extra hour did help with getting Vans and the Peanut ready and out the door.

Vans was running the 3.5 mile Apple Hill Harvest Run and we needed to get moving. The drive up was very ominous...

Down pour

Luckily, by the time we arrived and parked the rain had settled down. Vans had to sprint off to get his race packet and race bib while I was left unloading two very cold little girls and getting them over to the race starting area (which was not close by mind you).

This is how we roll in the rain.

I would have gladly traded places with the Peanut but she wasn't having it. That little BOB cocoon was super warm.

Vans and I alternate this race every year. Last year I ran it and was pregnant. This year it was his turn to run. He has not been running very much lately at all so he was very nervous about running on this hilly course.

While he was off running, I was trying to entertain the girls and keep everyone warm.

Snug as a bug ....

I was also secretly hoping that Vans would run fast ... not only so that he would do well but so that he could get back and help me.

Go Vans Go

Yet in typical Vans style he finished ... first in his age group! He was exhausted but extremely proud.

Sporting his Dylan Flinchum shirt too!

He was even MORE excited to learn that the prize for first place in your age group is not a medal. No, not when you are running the Apple Hill Harvest Run!!!

Nope, first place in THAT race is a fresh home-made Apple Pie!!

Yum! And not Gluten Free!

The rest of our weekend consisted of drying off and going to crazy indoor amusement parks with friends. The Peanut rode her first indoor roller coaster on Sunday and loved it (Vans did not). She is so much like me I have to smile. Maybe that means Squeaker will be more like Vans when she grows up ... but I doubt it. The girl is already rolling all across the room.

Squeaker rolling about

A SAD DAY (GUEST POST)

2011-11-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

***This is a first ... a guest post from Vans!***

First Steve Jobs ... Al Davis ...now it gets worse. Always in 3’s…. here is your 3^rd tragedy.

Today is a day that will be forever remembered. Mark it on your calendars, slip-on the checkerboards, ride a skateboard. Do it for Van.

I need some time.

Maybe I should run my Apple Hill 5k on Sunday in VANS!

- From Vans

***********************************

Vans shoes co-founder James Van Doren dies at 72

The Associated Press

Published Thursday, Nov. 03, 2011

FULLERTON, California -- Vans shoes co-founder James Van Doren has died in Southern California at 72.
The Van Doren Rubber Co.'s canvas deck shoes became favorites of the burgeoning skateboard culture because of sticky rubber soles that helped skaters grip their boards.
They got national exposure when Sean Penn wore Vans in the 1982 movie "Fast Times at Ridgemont High."
Van Doren's wife, Char, tells the Los Angeles Times that her husband died at his Fullerton home on Oct. 12 after a lengthy illness. A memorial Mass is planned Friday at Fullerton's St. Juliana Falconieri Church.
Van Doren and his older brother Paul began selling shoes in 1966.
James Van Doren guided the Cypress, California, company through the checkerboard era of the deck shoes. He ran Vans from 1976 to 1984.

***********************************

Peanut in her first pair of Vans

Dad skating in his Vans with the Peanut

Mom in Vans and Peanut in her second pair of Vans

Squeaker will be sporting her first set of Vans very shortly.

LAKE NATOMA FOUR BRIDGES HALF MARATHON RACE REPORT

2011-10-30T20:05:00.000-07:00

I survived the race. However, let me start from the beginning.

Saturday we had a bunch of friends over for our usual Game Night Halloween party. It is just a group of close friends, all with kids and they come over in costume. We provided crafts for them to do and then we had a mock Trick or Treat session in our hallway.

This was actually a really good thing because Jersey Girl discovered that Lil Dude (who is 2) likes to walk INTO a house after he knocks and the door is opened. Now she is prepared for Halloween night.

Every year we get our annual photo .... some kids are missing each year for various reasons, but they are all still super cute and growing fast!

2011

2010

2009

After everyone left and we cleaned up the house I went to bed. It was 8:30 pm and Squeaker had been down since 7 pm. I needed to make up for lost sleep from the night before when both Squeaker and the Peanut woke up.

Squeaker woke up at 10:30 pm, 2 am and 5 am to eat. My alarm went off at 6 am for the race. I felt well rested. After some coffee to get things moving and breakfast of gluten free oatmeal with peanut butter I was ready to leave for the race. I woke Vans to tell him I was leaving (it was about 6:50 am) and that Squeaker would probably be up at 7 am.

The bonus of living closer to Folsom now is that I do not have to leave super early for this race. I easily found a parking spot and sat in my car where it was warm. I needed a moment to mentally prepare myself for this race.

This would be my 6th Lake Natoma Four Bridges Half Marathon, and for some reason I was nervous. I told Vans the night before that I was as nervous for this race as I was the very first time I ever ran it in 2002. Why? I think I had too many expectations for myself and considering my lack of quality training lately, I was afraid I would not finish.

I eventually got out of my car. I had my iPhone with me and my running playlist. I don't normally race with headphones or music but for some reason, with this race I felt like I needed it. I am glad I had it with me.

I made my way to the starting area and ran into one crazy porta potty line.

This stretched on much farther than it shows.

Another bonus of living closer is that I went before I left the house so no porta potty line for me!

Since the race generally falls on or near Halloween, the Race Directors usually encourage people to dress in costume and will give a prize for the best one. This year, I think this guy's costume was pretty crazy.

Orange man?

He must have been fast in that suit because I never saw him at all during the race. He also must have been pretty darn hot!

I stood talking to a nice guy who worked for Raleys in their corporate office for a long while. It was his first Four Bridges and he was a bit excited. I think I need to go work for Raleys though as he was telling me that at his office, they have an incentive plan where if you work out on your lunch hour, you can reduce your health care premium every year! Sign me up!

Soon it was time for my wave to start. I sort of positioned myself in the middle. Years past I would have been up front but I know that I get caught up in the excitement of the first mile and often start out too fast.

This year I carried my water since I will be carrying my water for CIM. I also had some salt tabs and a few gels with me just in case. The gun went off and the wave started walking. When you hit the chip mat however, things started moving and I was off.

Immediately I felt sore. My back hurt, my hip was sore and I just felt out of sorts. Eventually all that wore off and I felt my groove. I did not turn on my music because I actually like the sounds of a race start because there are lots of people. This race has you run through Old Folsom the first mile or so which is really cute so I kept my music off until I hit the bike trail portion.

The first few miles flew by and I could not wait until the first aid-station. Not because I needed anything but because it was the Fleet Feet aid-station and I knew that I would see some familiar faces.

Sure enough Coach Nikon was the first to spot me and yell and I saw Super Woman and Pigeon and heard a few more cheers. It was just the boost I needed.

I have to say that I was moving along at a decent pace and felt great. I felt as if I could hold the pace for a while. I think living and running in El Dorado Hills has really made me a stronger up hill runner as every person I passed, was on an up hill portion. There are a lot of rolling hills the first half of the race which I enjoyed.

Once again, anything flat has me struggling. I am guessing speed work and leg turnover is something I need to focus more on if I want to improve on the flat sections (any other advice??).

I was just cruising along feeling great. My stomach felt amazing which is rare for me. It felt so great that I was barely sipping any water for fear of having it give me trouble. The minute I started drinking water I was hit with a few side stitches. I never ever get those but lately, they have been happening more frequently and I am not sure as to why.

Around mile 7 I took a salt tab which I think helped with my side stitch. I also noticed that they have changed the course since I last ran it in 2008. With the new Hazel Bridge construction complete, they had us running a small out and back section before crossing the bridge and they didn't have us running under the bridge they way we had in the past. This threw me for a loop as I was not expecting it and I really did not enjoy the out and back section. I hate seeing runners going in the opposite direction that I am.

Once I crossed Hazel however, things started going south. The other half of this course has a lot more flat sections to it and no matter how hard I tried to speed up, my mile splits just kept getting slower and slower. I finally took a gel at mile 10 thinking maybe that would help but it didn't. I just kept getting slower.

The last mile of this race is notorious for being rough. It is up hill once you cross the foot bridge in Old Folsom. A switch-back up up up past all the spectators will lead you to the finish shoot. An up hill finish is always tough.

I have to say I felt strong on all the up hills except the finish hill. I wasn't dead but I was not as strong as I had been on the up hills earlier in the race.

I crossed the finish and felt a surge of relief that I was done.

Finished.

I wore my Dylan Flinchum RockOn Foundation shirt for the race. It was perfect.

Here are my mile splits:

Mile 1 8:13
Mile 2 8:05
Mile 3 8:03
Mile 4 8:10
Mile 5 8:04
Mile 6 8:07
Mile 7 8:09
Mile 8 8:23
Mile 9 8:22
Mile 10 8:31
Mile 11 8:23
Mile 12 8:49
Mile 13 9:12 (that darn up hill)
My unofficial Garmin results were 1:50 and a 8:21/mile.

Official results: 1:50 and a 8:25/mile
11th in my age group out of 129
292 out of 1613 women

No matter how hard I tried after mile 9 to run faster, I just couldn't. At times I thought I was picking up the pace only to be passed by a few runners. Those darn flat straight sections get me every time!

When I finished the race I called Vans just to be sure he wasn't secretly trying to surprise me after the race. He wasn't. He had his own challenges at home (Squeaker is teething).

When I arrived home the girls were super excited to see me. Vans too but for a different reason. The Peanut really liked my medal and asked me "Mommy!? Did you WIN?!" Bless her heart.

I may not have won the race but I did win in life.

READY OR NOT

2011-10-30T06:42:00.000-07:00

Off to do my first "race" post baby. Squeaker is four months two weeks and 2 days old .... fingers crossed I survive....

CHANGE

2011-10-27T13:59:00.000-07:00

So this has been a rough week. After my weekend of running, I basically have not run much this week at all other than a few miles on Tuesday evening. I have had some knee pain that is either being caused by me wearing heels (since I have returned to work) or because I hardly run all week long and then on weekends I go out and pound a lot of mileage. Honestly, it is probably is a combination of the two.

Something needs to change. I had a talk with Vans because I complain to him that I *need* to run at night but I am physically and mentally drained from a day of working, commuting and being the mommy shuttle bus for two little ones. Add in making dinner, prepping lunches, washing clothes that have been subject to poo-namis, grocery shopping ... the list goes on and on. When can I run? Vans does his part around the house and often times forces me out reminding me to just start a run, if I am still beat after a mile, then I can come home.

I don't mean to complain (well, it is my blog and I can complain if I want to) but I know some of you out there battle the same struggles that I am battling right now and you some how find the time. It is possible. It might not happen every day the same way but I know that I need to carve out 30 minutes minimum of "me time" to run, cross-train whatever!

I've also reached out to Coach Seth. He's a "stop complaining" kind of guy but he is trying to work with my crazy schedule and daily routine. I am ~~afraid~~ curious to see what he comes up with because right now, any strength training I did over the summer is gone. However he is also battling some serious back pain and is scheduled to have surgery in December. Maybe he'll go easy on me then? (ha) He has a lot on his plate right now but I trust him enough to tell me what I need to do in order to be the best me I can be physically. He can't hold my hand and he can't force me out the door, but he can suggest the right routine for me and the rest is up to me. He is good at telling people to stop complaining and just do the work to get what you want.

Basically I want to be strong and fit enough that I am not exhausted come the end of the day. Vans pointed out this morning that I should really look at my nutrition to see if I am getting enough iron and protein and such. I admit, I am on the fly constantly right now that "a bar" is all too often a meal during the day. Working on that.

All day my energy is strong but come that long drive home with a tired (and cranky) Peanut and a hungry (and tired) Squeaker any "oomph" I had is gone. My girls need me, especially in the evenings. Normally I will do any running after Squeaker is down for the night. Adorned in my headlamp and reflective gear, I hit the streets while Vans gives the Peanut a bath. I am not enjoying this. I want snuggle time on the couch, I want to cook a healthy meal for us instead of reheating and microwaving stuff. I enjoyed cooking dinners for my family while I was home on maternity leave. I miss that.

So while driving to work this morning I did some thinking. Having a long commute lends itself to having random thoughts and ideas (just ask Vans). I have decided that I need to workout in the morning. For my own sake and for that of my girls. If I can find 30 minutes in the morning to run or lift then perhaps, that is the answer I am looking for right now. Of course, I say this forgetting that I am up feeding Squeaker at 10:30 pm, 2:00 am and 5 am most nights/mornings. However, why not after my 5 am wake can't I just hit the treadmill? I get up for the day at 5:45 anyway ... why not just stay up in an effort to have more quality time at home in the evenings?

I will probably put this plan into effect next week, after I run my half this weekend. I know there will be mornings where Squeaker will be "off" and not waking at her usual times or the Peanut will be up (she is still the worst sleeper) but I can deal. I know this isn't forever. Squeaker will sleep (some day)and the Peanut? Well, she stays asleep MOST of the time ... when she doesn't, I'll let Vans deal. :-)

What matters most are my girls and the time I get to spend with them. I just stumbled across this photo today ... it was taken March 2010 at the Way Too Cool 50K:

March 2010 So tiny. So QUIET.

Now she seems so grown up to me. She will talk your ear off if you let her and she never lets you get a word in either. Hmmm, sounds like the making of a good lawyer to me?!

October 2011 Feisty and

Opinionated

Just amazes me how fast she is growing and I don't want to miss a second of it. I am already sad being back at work with the girls being away from me all day long. Granted I enjoy adult time but nothing compares to spending time with my girls.

Squeaker is just finishing up her last week with a private nanny-share. Next week she finally attends the same daycare that the Peanut is going to right now. What does that mean? It means (hopefully) a quicker drop off and pick up for us but it also means that most likely she will get her first cold. It is inevitable. Daycare is a germ fest.

Right now she's enjoying the nanny and the company of another little baby .... it is quiet. Boy is she in for a shocker come Monday!

Squeaker (on the right) and her buddy out for a ride

Story time!

Toy thief. She snags the toys from her friend constantly.

Yup, just seeing those photos makes me excited to be home more in the evenings.

IT IS POSSIBLE

2011-10-23T09:35:00.000-07:00

It is possible to get lost on a run that you've already done twice before. My problem seems that I chit chat too much at a particular spot that I never noticed where we turned. So when I ran the same route yesterday, on my own, I had no idea where to go and ran up and down the same street a few times until I figured my way out. Oops.

It has been a running weekend. I needed that. It all started on Friday when Fleet Feet Fair-Oaks/Roseville had their first Pub Run!

Yes, a running pub run.

It wasn't your typical college pub run where you just run from pub to pub drinking. Instead we met at a pub on Friday evening, registered for this FREE event and then took off running four miles. I pushed Squeaker in the BOB stroller and Vans pushed the Peanut in the chariot. We were the only ones out there with joggers but it was fun! The Peanut had a blast with her cowbell and yelling "run faster mommy faster!"

They also had a guy dressed up as a beer bottle with ribbons attached to him. He would hide somewhere out on the course and you had to find him, chase him and grab one of the ribbons to get a prize at the end of the race. Vans was ready for him. The Peanut however, was calling him the BEARD guy instead of the beer guy so it was "get the beard guy daddy! get the beard guy!" Vans caught him. Nice.

When we finished, Fleet Feet had the back patio ready for everyone. The event was co-sponsored by Saucony and they had cool raffle prizes and free beer and cookies. Seriously? What could be a better Friday night!? I hope they do this again with other running sponsors. It was great because Saucony let you test out their shoes on the run as well as their reflective vests! That is a great way to get your product out there to the public.

Saturday I woke up and needed to get a long run in. I am still battling some tummy issues that I had earlier in the week (I was accidentally glutened at a party). I set out with the intentions of doing 8 hilly miles. Once again I ran up Beatty, or at least most of it. I've decided that I need to stop being complacent with hills. In ultras they say you should walk the ups and run the downs and that is true for the most part, especially if you are doing a really long race, but I am finding myself walking the ups more than I think I really need to because I assume I have to. Instead I am trying to push myself to run hills more so I can get stronger. I think it is working as I am feeling much stronger on some of the smaller hills in the neighborhood.

After the run we went out to the Folsom Whole Foods Pre-opening party! The store officially opens on Wednesday and I can hardly wait. I am a Whole Foods junkie (being gluten free I sort of have to be). The store will probably be insane for a few weeks though. I will go once all the excitement passes or right before they close.

I think today I might head out for a 3 mile run later. It has some hills but I feel the need to add a few extra miles in this weekend since I didn't go very long on Saturday. Next Sunday is the Folsom Lake Four Bridges Half Marathon. I am considering this my first "real" race since being back post Squeaker. I signed up for this race last year but then found out I was pregnant and we were gearing up to move so I had not been running much. It isn't a super easy half as there are some hills involved. I hope I am ready. I really want to do well in this race.

I ran the same race after the Peanut was born and I ran it faster than I ever had before (a new PR for this race actually). I ran it in 1:48 (8:18/mile). My half marathon PR is 1:44 (7:58/mile) at Shamrock the same year ... for some reason post Peanut I was way faster than I am post Squeaker. My expectations are high but I also don't want to disappoint myself as I know what I am running right now and it isn't that. I guess we will see what the week brings and how it affects my race. Work has not been an easy return and the Squeaker is adjusting to going to a "daycare" environment and thus waking more frequently in the middle of the night.

She's still an awesome kid who does sleep well. I really can't complain and apparently neither can Vans as she has become a great photography subject ....

Hey Dad, is that a CAMERA you have?

Shall I give you a profile?

Or a smirk?

Darling, please ... I know how cute I am.

Lord, tell him how cute I am!

See. The kid loves the camera. Lucky for Vans.....

Because the Peanut doesn't.

SUPPORT DYLAN (THE AMAZING FAMILY FAN CLUB)

2011-10-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

This is Dylan.

I posted a while back about helping out Dylan. Dylan is the son of a dear friend of mine who I have known my entire life. Dylan is three and was recently diagnosed with metachromatic leukodystrophy often referred to as MLD. Basically people who are affected by MLD lack an enzyme in their blood. Without this enzyme, sulfatides are NOT broken down and instead build-up in the white matter of the brain and central nervous system causing destruction of the myelin sheath, or demyelination. Without an intact myelin sheath there is a breakdown in communication between the nerves and the brain. This loss of or miscommunication accounts for the loss of acquired functions, paralysis, blindness, seizures and eventual death seen in MLD. You can learn more about MLD here.

Dylan and his family need your help.

Dylan's Mom & Dad

From Dylan's Facebook page:

As they all prepare to cope with this horrible disease, everyone is focused on one thing, Dylan. Their goal is to make Dylan as happy and as comfortable as possible while bringing as many smiles to his face as they can.

In order to best achieve this, they will likely be missing extended periods of work as well as making many trips back and forth to Philadelphia to be sure that they are providing Dylan with the best care that is offered at CHOP, the top pediatric hospital in the country. Dylan will also require special medical equipment and various types of therapy to make him more comfortable as the disease continues to progress.

When I found out about Dylan I decided that I would run The California International Marathon this December 4th in his honor and I wanted to bring awareness to Dylan's situation and help his family at the same time. I wanted to wear a shirt so that everyone running near me for those 26.2 miles will know who Dylan is and raise awareness about MLD. I also wanted my cheering section (aka my family) sporting the same shirts. Heck, they will be standing out there for hours waiting for me to run by, I might as well put them to use and help spread the word right!?

So I set out to find a company that could help me achieve my goals. I reached out to Beth at Shut Up and Run and quite a few other bloggers but Beth sent me to Paul at Family Fan Club. I emailed Paul about Dylan and the same day I received an email back from Paul saying that he could help ... and help he did!

Paul set up The Dylan Flinchum Rockon Foundation store page where you can buy not only New Balance Tech Shirts (ahem, great for running in) but also regular t-shirts, shirts for kids, mugs, water bottles and decals and the proceeds will help Dylan's family!!!!

New Balance Tech Shirt

How cute is that!?

Paul and the rest of the Family Fan Club people had the site up and running in no time at all and have been VERY supportive. I am beside myself with joy over this and The Dylan Flinchum Rockon Foundation Facebook page has posted the link to Dylan's store.

I ask you, beg you and plead with you to please visit the Family Fan Club Dylan Flinchum Rockon Foundation Store page and buy a shirt, a water bottle, a sticker ... anything. Please help Dylan.

And while you are helping out Dylan, please go over to the Family Fan Club page and tell them how awesome they are. You can also "Like" them on Facebook. It is an amazing thing they have done for Dylan and his family.

OLD TIMES

2011-10-17T13:01:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I ran 16 miles with Pigeon. It was almost like old times ... except we were not on trails and we were not training for a race that SHE was doing. Instead, she came running the streets of El Dorado Hills with ME since I am training for CIM.

Earlier in the week some emails bounced around from my old running group the Buffalo Chips. They were headed to EDH to run and so I thought it was great timing for me to join them. However, I know how fast those Buffalo Chippers are ... they are super fast. Pigeon had expressed an interest in running with me and I have been dying to run with her as well. I invited her. The poor girl had run 13 crazy hilly miles on the trails in Cool the day prior but still agreed to come and run with me. True running friendship at its finest.

The day started early with Pigeon arriving at my house at 7 am. We drove to the meet-up location even though the route passed my house half-way in. This was Pigeon's "out point" if she was struggling, which is why she left her car at my house.

The minute the group started running I thought something was not quite right. They were running too close to our pace and then it happened. We hit a hill and those Buffalo Chippers were long gone. You would think THEY lived in El Dorado Hills the way they powered up some of those hills yesterday. Sheesh! It didn't help that Pigeon and I took a wrong turn at one point and went about a half mile out of the way. Oops.

Yet, like Pigeon posted in her run report, the miles just flew by because we were playing catch up on lost time. We would talk, we would run, we would walk the occasional hill but the entire time it was as if no time had past at all between us. Despite her running The Sierra Nevada Endurance Run 50 miler just three weeks ago ... and me having had a baby just four months ago ... we were just picking up as if no time had passed. It was great.

(Thanks Pigeon for the 2010 photo)

After our run she came back to my house (she had to, her car was there) and we iced our legs in my very cold pool while sipping Godiva Pumpkin Coffee! It was great. She finally was able to meet Squeaker and poor Peanut just whisked Pigeon away to her room to show her all her toys and claim the attention for herself.

Squeaker did not mind as she has a "new to her" toy ... the jump-a-roo and boy does she JUMP!

Bounce Bounce Bounce

She jumps so much the picture is a bit fuzzy! You would never know this girl had her shots on Friday! She measured in at 14 pounds 13.8 ounces ... almost a full pound heavier than the Peanut at four months. The nurse administered the 3 shots and she cried but then stopped and the rest of the weekend was her happy smiling self. She was also super snugly. Love.

*****

If you didn't catch my post over the weekend, please check out my support of the No White At Night campaign.

NIGHT RUNNING

2011-10-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

In one of my previous posts, I mentioned that I went on a night run. I have gone night running before always wearing a headlamp and some sort of reflective gear. If you remember this post, I wear these often and love them.

Where I live there are no sidewalks or street lamps. It is pitch black outside both in the early morning and in the evenings when I return home from work. I used to workout first thing in the morning and I do prefer that but with two kids, a long commute and just life in general ... it isn't feasible for me right now. I am resigned to run after work.

Watch this video that 3M Schotchlite sent to me and asked me to promote on my blog. It will truly open your eyes and make you think:

I cannot tell you how many neighbors are out walking their dogs when I drive home from work and they are practically invisible to me until I am within feet of them. I see people running at dusk with nothing more than a stripe on their shorts.

Please be careful out there. I think that video speaks volumes in the first few seconds. The evenings are getting darker earlier and I am a firm believer in being seen by motor vehicles when I am out running. As a kid I was squished between a moving car and a parked car, my own fault, but none the less, it made me very adamant about being visible to motorists. In the game of chicken, the car will always win.

I ask you all, what do you wear when running in dark conditions? Is it only a headlamp? What about the motorists behind you? They can't see that light.

360 degrees of visibility is key. 3M Scotchlite has the right idea in their new campaign "No White At Night."

Please spread the word. Fleet Feet has tons of reflective apparel in their stores and there is a ton of stuff online too. They say running is one of the most inexpensive sports around ...all you need are shoes and a water bottle. Well, I'd like to add "reflective gear" to that list too. Most reflective clothing is very affordable.

Just remember, you have to be visible not only from the front, but from the side and behind as well.

Can you see the white?

Scotchlite New Balance 360 Jacket

You have to be careful ... people that love you are counting on you. Be an example. Be safe.

SCENES FROM VACATION PART 2

2011-10-14T09:07:00.000-07:00

We are home now from vacation and today I returned to work. Wow, 4.5 months have flown by. I tried posting more photos while in Tahoe but it SNOWED while we were there and the internet connection was terrible. I also tried for days to post from home and again, bad internet ... sheesh!

Finally here are some more photos from our week in Tahoe ...

The Peanut & Vans at the Oktoberfest

At the top of the world!

Playing footsie!

Ready for the chilly weather!

She won't take a bottle from Vans, but she'll take one from the Peanut!

Snuggles on the couch!

Peanut's first time bowling!!

Followed by some soccer (the girl has natural talent).

Snuggles with mom!

10 guesses who took this photo and why?

SNOW FUN!!

Okay, pics are FINALLY up ... man I miss being there already. Tahoe is always a place of memories for us. Stay tuned for an important post about saftey!

MOVING RIGHT ALONG

2011-10-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

So this week I returned to work after being off for 4.5 months. It's been rough. A lot of changes happened while I was gone. None of them good. I will leave it at that.

What else isn't very good at the moment? My running. Last Sunday I should have done 12 miles. I set out to do 10. I ended up running about 8. Digestive issues had me cutting my run short. Not to mention we had just returned from Tahoe and were still settling. I did however, take some photos of my solo pathetic 8 miler.

This is half way up Beatty

I have written about Beatty before. It is a mile plus steep hill near my house that most cyclists use as a training hill. I've been running it once in a while. I can't run the entire thing but I can run most of it ... or I run until I hit the dreaded turkeys and then I stop and wage war. Not really. I cross the street as far away from them as I can possibly get.

Almost at the top

Beatty is a great hill to train on and strengthen your legs. The homes lined along this street are pretty awesome to look at as well and they have million dollar views ...

View of Folsom Lake

It's been rough since we returned from Tahoe. I am still attempting to share more vacation photos but they are on my laptop which is being "difficult" to say the least ... hello iPad! Well, not really but I am dreaming and begging for one at the same time.

When we returned from our week in Tahoe we discovered the following ...

Tree down!

One of the pretty trees in our front yard fell down. Luckily it didn't fall into our home but it did mean that the first full day back, Vans spent the entire day chainsawing and removing pieces of tree. Which now sits in our driveway ready to be taken to a local dump.

Then I started work on Tuesday which like I mentioned, was full of surprises and Squeaker started her first full day at her nanny-share place. She isn't going to the same school as the Peanut right now (long complicated and frustrating story). However, she seems to be having fun with her partner Little G and lots of one on one time with the nanny.

Little G and Squeaker at the park

Now that I am working, I also do not get home until super late and then have to put Squeaker to bed (she is the child who LIKES to sleep) and feed the Peanut. Last night I made a point to put Squeaker to bed and head out on a run even though I knew it would be 1. in the dark and 2. very short.

Hello headlamp & reflective gear

This leads me to my next post ... a teaser of sorts. I was contacted by a company and asked to share some thing with my readers. I just have not had the chance to sit down and devote the proper attention to it that I would like. It is something I believe in and I think everyone who runs should be made aware. So please, stay tuned. I apologize for all the infrequent posting of late. Adjusting to the working world again is always rough the first week.

At least I have my girls ... and Vans to keep me strong.

The Peanut at four months (ish) ...

Squeaker at four months (ish)

Crazy isn't it?!

FOUR MONTHS

2011-10-12T06:36:00.000-07:00

I've been working on a post with more vacation photos for about a week now. Our internet connection has been sporadic and frustrating.

So briefly ... Happy Four Months Squeaker!!! Hard to believe you entered our lives just four months ago. Hard to believe I am also back at work now and not seeing your smiling face all day long. Sad. I love you little Squeaker.

4 months!!

SCENES FROM VACATION

2011-10-04T21:14:00.000-07:00

One week from today I return to work. My maternity leave has flown by so quickly. I've been home since June 1st. I am so happy to be spending my last week in Tahoe with my family. The weather has taken a turn ... high winds, rain and snow on the mountain tops. Here are some scenes from earlier in the week ...

On Sunday we went to Northstar to watch Sarcasm race in a mountain bike race. When we got back, the Peanut and Vans went for a hike while Squeaker and I headed to the grocery store to stock up on goodies for the week.

On the trail.

Crossing streams.

Loving nature.

On Monday Vans went for a mountain bike ride ... so the Peanut, Squeaker and I headed over to the village to wander around. The Peanut also enjoyed her first ever kid's low sugar soy hot chocolate.

Yum!

Van's and Squeaker also had some bonding time ...

On Tuesday I woke up and hit the trail for a 5 mile run to bring you some photos of what you'll see if you do Big Blue Adventure's Oktoberfest Trail Run ... like I did on Saturday.

You'll run by this amazing soccer/lacrosse field.

Towards beautiful Squaw Valley

After my run we packed up the girls and headed to Tahoe City. That is when the weather started changing.

Brrrr it is cold!

Even Squeaker was a bit chilly.

Squeaker could not take her eyes off the lake. She was mesmerized. What can I say, it runs in her blood.

The rest of the week is supposed to bring some crazy cold temps, snow, rain and high winds. I think tomorrow we might be headed to Incline for something fun and new for the Peanut. It should be pretty entertaining so stay tuned ...

BIG BLUE ADVENTURE'S OKTOBERFEST TRAIL RUN

2011-10-01T14:06:00.000-07:00

As I said in my last post (which was forever ago, sorry) this weekend was a high(er) mileage weekend for me. All week long I have been getting us ready for our annual week in Tahoe. We spend one week in Tahoe every year (timeshare). Squaw Valley is where we go and we love it. This year, I discovered that the day before we're scheduled to go up that Squaw Village was hosting their 10th Annual Squaw Village Oktoberfest. We have been to this before when our week in Tahoe coincided with the event. This year our week fell later causing us to miss the event by one day. I also discovered that Big Blue Adventure was having an Oktoberfest Trail Race that ended right in Squaw. How perfect. Needless to say, we figured out a way to get up to Tahoe two days early so that I could do the race and Vans could hang out at the Oktobefest. Perfect.

So Friday when Vans got home from work, we finished loading the car and we headed to Squaw Village to pick up my race packet. While picking up my swag I asked the girl if anyone ever runs from the finish to the start and then does the race. She told me "Absolutely! People do it all the time." Hmmm, this is an inaugural race so how can they "do it all the time?" Oh well. That was my plan because I needed a long run to fit into our weekend plans.

Squaw has so many special memories for us. This year is no exception as it was Squeaker's first time here.

She is loving it!

And my race swag apparently.

The Peanut is a regular here.

After packet pick up we headed to our room to unload. Since we arrived two days early, we were forced to check into another room and not the room we are going to be staying in all week. Let the luggage shuffle begin!

With a 3 year old, a 3.5 month old, a husband who is the world's lightest sleeper and a mother who has to get up before the sun rises made our sleeping situation in this tiny room difficult. The Peanut and Vans slept on the pull out sofa bed while Squeaker and I slept in the bedroom. I think we won that deal.

At 5:30 my alarm went off. I had been up only once with Squeaker and tried to go to bed when she did as to maximize my sleep. I quickly fed Squeaker and changed her (darn diapers leak way too often in our house) and then continued on with my usual pre-race ritual.

6:15 I woke up Vans to tell him I was off. I had my headlamp with me but as it turns out, I only needed it for about 5 minutes. Oh well. As I started on my way I saw the spot where the race people were having racers meet in order to be shuttled to the starting location. I stopped and asked if anyone was running to the starting area. They looked at me like I had 3 heads and the race person said, "over achiever much?" ha ha So I was alone on my morning journey.

I realized as I had left the house that I had nothing to eat. Normally I do try and eat 2 hours before running if I can because my stomach does not digest well but Vans and the Peanut were sleeping the kitchen area and I didn't want to wake them. I had 3 gels with me though. I also don't adjust well in Tahoe. It takes me a few days before my stomach settles. Something about the altitude ... you know what a bag of chips looks like when you bring them into altitude ... yeah that is how I feel the first few days. So about 4 miles into my run my stomach goes south ... WAY south. It was so bad I was looking to the left and right of me to figure out where I could go but the bike trail leading to Tahoe City doesn't have much of a shoulder let alone coverage. I just sucked it up and walked when I had to which wasn't much.

By 7:40 I had reached Common's Beach in Tahoe City where the race was going to start. I headed straight for the rest rooms and stood in line. 7:50 I was lining up at the starting line. This race was small, very small ... maybe 25 to 30 runners tops is my guess. The race director had said it was their inaugural race which was kind of cool.

8:00 am they said "ready set go" and we were off. I basically ran back the way that I came minus a few different turns here and there. I took it slow. My stomach felt 100 times better ... at first but by mile 4 (really my mile 12) I started having sloshy stomach. Great. If there is one thing I really hate when running it is a sloshy stomach. I had taken a gel at mile 4 on my way to the start hoping it would settle my stomach (it didn't) and decided to take another one at mile 4 (or really my 12) on the way to the finish. Physically I was tired. My legs felt heavy and I was getting side stitches but mentally I was moving along. I wouldn't let my mind have any negative thoughts. When something started to creep in I quickly changed my thinking to something positive like "it is so beautiful here" and "you are more than half way done!"

The finish takes you up the road leading to Squaw Village and then you enter the parking lot and they send you into the village via the cobblestone walk way. Basically you are running straight past all the stores and shops to a giant finish arch.

As I was finishing I saw an orange BOB (jogging stroller) much like the one we have. I ran right up to it thinking "oh great! Vans and the girls made it!" and yet as I neared it it was more like "oops, not my stroller not my kid." ha

I wandered around the finish area. I talked to the race director for a while and still no Vans and the girls. Uh-oh. Squeaker is still adjusting to taking a bottle and so I was worried that things were not going well for them.

Craziness back at the room ....

Vans tends to have a hard time motivating everyone ...

About 10 minutes after I am done I see Vans and the girls walking up. Apparently I am faster than Van's gives me credit for as he wasn't expecting me to be done already.

Maybe Tiger had more faith in me ...

Overall I am glad that I did the mileage I did as I don't think I could motivate myself to do high mileage up here later in the week. I was tired and my legs were sore but overall, I felt okay. This was a good mental challenge for me. I overcame when I was feeling tired by mentally staying positive. I don't think CIM will be easy for me this year by any means. I am still no where near where I was speed wise just a few years ago but that is okay. The miles are getting done.

16 D-O-N-E

The best reward. My girls.

7 YEARS AGO

2011-09-26T09:57:00.000-07:00

Seven years ago today I married my best-friend and the man of my dreams. He is now the father of my children, still my best-friend and still the man of my dreams.

Vans and I have known each other for 11 years. 10 years ago we started dating. 3 and half years after dating we were married. He's a patient man what can I say ... or maybe he was just taking his time trying to decide if he was ready for a set of New Jersey in-laws, a life-time of Bon Jovi music and a wife who can instantly "go Jersey" at any moment. I make it interesting ... what can I say?

Happy Anniversary!

Wow. 7 years and two kids later ...

Our annual Tahoe week is coming up. I can hardly wait and neither can the Peanut. We are actually spending a couple extra days in Tahoe this year because of course I found a race to run and also an Oktoberfest for Vans! Priorities. What can I say?

Yesterday I knew I had to do double digit mileage or at least 2 hours on my feet. I was dreading this all weekend. I was supposed to go Saturday morning but Squeaker had a rough night, as did Vans and so I was left waking up throughout the night and on early mommy duty in the morning and therefore bailed on my run. We also wanted to head out to the Auburn Damn Overlook to watch Pigeon rock it in the Sierra Nevada Endurance Run. She nailed it.

So Sunday was the day. I started later than I had anticipated but Squeaker is not taking a bottle easily so I had to make sure she was well fed and Vans was alert and ready to deal with two kids. I headed out down my street and about a half mile from my house I run into four women.

I did a double take. Could it be? Really!? It was 3 old Buffalo Chip girls that I used to run with and one newbie! They asked me if I wanted to run with them and I about cried at the offer. What a dream! They were already on mile 8 of their 16 for the day but I tagged along with them for about 4 miles before they headed back towards Folsom. I am now on their radar and hope to join them on a few runs through El Dorado Hills.

It is funny but they were so overjoyed to run around my neck of the woods. They oogled at houses and they loved running the hills. For weeks I have been complaining about hills and yet I hear them saying how much they wished they lived here. Years ago (pre-kids) I used to run with the Chips up in Cameron Park and I'd come home excited to tell Vans about the amazing houses and great training hills. I wanted to live there. Funny how that works. The grass is always greener huh?

After I left the girls I decided I needed to change my way of thinking and enjoy where I am and where I get to run. It will only help me and make me stronger in my training.

I left my group at the corner of Green Valley and Sophia Parkway and turned back up Sophia to tackle Beatty. Beatty is probably most known to cyclists as one of the meanest training hills in the area. It is long, steep and long. Very long. Did I mention it was long? I ran some walked some ran some walked some. I dodged turkeys and ran some more. I enjoyed it.

After running all around El Dorado Hills I finally made 10 miles and called it a day. I was so excited to tell Vans about my run-in with the Buffalo Chips.

Next weekend I have some major mileage planned. We leave for Tahoe on Friday. Saturday morning is my race. The race is from Tahoe City to Squaw Valley which is about 7.88 miles. We stay in Squaw Valley so in order to get my required mileage in ... I plan to wake up early, run to Tahoe City and then join the race and run back to Squaw Valley. This not only gives me my mileage for the weekend it also allows Vans and the girls the chance to sleep in and only walk over to the finish vs waking up and driving me to the start.

Hopefully day light is on my side ... otherwise I might be starting my run in the dark ... actually I probably will be starting my run in the dark just a little bit. Dark and cold but I can hardly wait. It's TAHOE!

I love our week in Tahoe and sadly this is my last week home with Squeaker. After we return from Tahoe I return to work. Good bye maternity leave. Never again will I have this time at home the way I have had it this summer.

Going back to work is bittersweet. I am anxious for the routine and to um, actually earn a paycheck but at the same time, one on one time with Squeaker is just so precious.

She's so cute ... what can I say?

BAY TO BLISS

2011-09-18T19:53:00.000-07:00

Today was the Big Blue Adventure Emerald Bay Trail Run also called the Bay to Bliss run (because you run from Emerald Bay to D.L. Bliss Park's Lester Beach).

Last year I ran this race as the kick off to our week long vacation in Tahoe. I was also pregnant when I ran the race but did not know it at the time. It was such a beautiful run and it finished directly on the beach which was a hit for Vans and the Peanut.

I was determined to run the race again since it was so much fun and I felt I needed to redeem myself.

I also want to note that this recap will be an honest recap. What I mean by that is I will explain what a mother of an infant (and a 3 year old) actually has to do before a race for those who do not have kids and want to know how they can still race while having a child under the age of one and a 3 year old at home. So here goes ...

First and foremost, you have to have a supportive partner. Vans is very supportive and he is also very competitive so he understands my need for doing certain races over and over again. It also helps that he loves Tahoe as much as I do.

Also, Squeaker is an amazing baby. I won't lie.

She's pretty easy going.

Okay. ONCE in a while she'll cry...

But generally, she's easy as ~~gluten-free~~ pie.

So last night she woke up to eat at 3:45 am. I am nursing so that means I get up at 3:45 as well. As she often does, she poops. All babies do and usually when you are half asleep. However, by 4:00 am I was back in bed (told you she was easy). 5:45 am my alarm goes off (ugh). I change into my running clothes and take a few sips of coffee (I need that warm wake up first thing). A little after 6 am I make sure Vans is up (usually he isn't) and I go into the Peanut's room. I change her from her jammies into shorts and a t-shirt with long pants and a sweat shirt over it ... ALL while she is still asleep. She is used to this. She slowly opens her eyes and says "are we in Tahoe yet?" What can I say, this kid also loves Tahoe. I finish getting her ready and plop her on the couch where she starts talking nonstop about what she plans to do in Tahoe.

Next, I go into Squeaker's room who is still sound asleep. I pick her up and I nurse her while she's asleep and then I change her from her jammies into WARMER jammies. I remembered this year just how chilly it was at the start (go me). While I am doing this, Vans is loading the car with all the snacks, drinks, sand toys and other odds and ends we laid out last night.

6:40 am we're on the road and I am worried we're not going to make it. The glare from the sun was horrible on the drive up causing us to drive well below the speed limit.

We finally get to Eagle Point Campground (the race start) and I jump out of the car to head to registration to get my race packet. Vans luckily scored the last parking spot.

When I got to the car, Vans was changing Squeaker's diaper and then did the handoff to me. Sadly, Squeaker is refusing to take bottles making my life terribly stressful and hard right now. SO ... a mother has to do what a mother has to do ... I nursed her in the front seat of the car. After that, I placed her on the driver's side while Vans got all of our baby-gear ready. As a nursing mother AND a runner ... you have to then pump before running. If you are child-less or from another generation and do not know what "pumping" means, google "pumping milk" to find out. 10 minutes later I am finally getting myself dressed to race ... with only 8 minutes to spare before race start.

I blow kisses to the family and I run. The race start is a half mile down this very long hill to the very bottom of Eagle Point Campground ... with the start racing back up the same hill you've just run down.

Here is the course map:

Here is the course profile:

What the course profile doesn't show you are the STAIRS you have to climb in and around Vikingsholm. More on that later.

So the race starts (literally, "3, 2, 1 GO" by the race director). Everyone races up the hill only to be hit by the altitude and steepness of this paved hill. I saw Mo Bartley fly by me with absolutely no problems (no surprise). However, I have to say that this year the hill seemed a lot easier. That doesn't mean I ran it any faster, but it was easier to climb because all of a sudden I saw the Peanut!

With Gu! Again!

Squeaker was there too...

The hand off...

The Peanut was standing right where the race turns into a real trail race. A conga line trail race ...

Can you find me?

The Peanut, Vans and Squeaker hung our for a bit taking photos.

The race was on and I was feeling pretty good. I passed four women right off the bat on the down hill. As I was yelling "on your left" I heard an echo "on your left" coming from behind me. Once we were farther away from those other women, I hollered back "Anytime you want to pass just let me know!" "I am not going anywhere girlfriend!" a voice yelled back at me ... I just laughed and then in my head thought "wait a minute" when the person yelled, "Do you know who this is!?" and for a second my mind went blank. I definitely recognized the voice "Kind of," I said, "Who is it?" "It's BIG D girl!" Oh.my.word! "NO WAY!" I yelled! I instantly teared up.

Big D was my pacer at AR50 and my long time running buddy. I have not run with her in over TWO YEARS and to all of a sudden have her behind me was like a dream! She told me she wasn't leaving my side but Big D is fast. Super fast and I could tell that she was running solid. She ran with me for a bit and then she remembered that her coach (Mo Bartley) was here and that she was really supposed to be running hard. I didn't mind as I was starting to lose steam and did not want to hold Big D back at all. I watched with a huge smile on my face as I saw Big D pass runner after runner after runner and was out of sight.

Instead, I locked in on my race rabbit for this race. I instantly labeled her Lululemon because she was decked out in Lululemon capris, tanks (yes two) and socks. She was solid and running strong. I passed two men to catch up to her. I stayed behind her and noticed that when we hit the stairs going up, she was flying. Hmmm, I assumed she was from the Bay Area with the way she was climbing stairs and I later learned I was right.

Miles 4 through 6 were hard for me. I walked way more than I had imagined. Not including the stairs. I was flying on the downs, solid on the ups but the FLATS had me struggling at times. What gives!? I remained behind Lululemon though. I was hot on her heels. She said she wasn't bothered by my heavy breathing.

At one point near the finish, Lululemon started slowing! What?! No way! She was my rabbit! I yelled "Hey! Hey Lululemon don't slow down now! C'mon! You can do it!"

"Did I really just call her Lululemon out loud?" I thought to myself. Yes. Yes I did but she appreciated it and she turned on the jets. I followed her to the finish. I could have passed her at two different spots in the race but I don't doubt she would have caught up to me. Instead, I was happy I could motivate her to keep going because she had kept me going the entire race.

I knew once I hit the finish area that no matter what, the Peanut was going to run through the finish with me. She had asked me, no, BEGGED ME this morning to let her run the entire race with me. She was devastated when I said she couldn't but she was more than happy to take me into the finish shoot.

Peanut!!

C'mon!

The finish (I love that the race ends on the beach facing the water)

A few runners actually run straight through the finish and dive into the water. The race director loves this!

Sadly, my time was about the same as last year. Who am I kidding, that isn't that bad I suppose. Last year I was pregnant and this year I am 3 months post baby ... next year, NEXT YEAR will be the year I PR ... right Vans?

Of course I immediately had to find Big D.

She was baby lovin!

And the baby was lovin Big D!

The girls!

Then I had to find Lululemon. She actually found me and we talked for a bit. She was from the Bay Area (those stairs!) and thanked me immensely for getting her bum into gear near the finish. I told her that one of my dear friends is a huge Lululemon fan and that she kept me honest all race.

I love this race. Absolutely love it. You cannot deny the awesome beach finish is the best way to end a race ... which also makes a great ice-bath later as well.

(psst - Captain Kirk - this is for you from Vans)

The kids also love this race because they get to play on the beach. Next year there will be no rest for the racer ... as I'll be chasing two!!

But that is okay because I love...

my girls.

EXHAUSTING

2011-09-16T18:19:00.000-07:00

It is

exhausting ...

being this cute.

Sorry, nothing running related ... I ran 6 miles yesterday, 4 at tempo. Gearing up for the race this weekend. That's all.

BUSY WEEKENDS (ROCK ON FOUNDATION)

2011-09-14T12:19:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday I had the Buffalo Stampede ... this upcoming weekend I have the Big Blue Adventure Emerald Bay race. I ran this race last year (go here) and very vividly remember struggling at various points throughout the course. It isn't a difficult race (not super easy but not terrible). Looking back I didn't fuel well AT ALL ... um, basically barely any food before the race as I was trying to pack up our family to get on the road. Soon AFTER the race I discovered I was pregnant with Squeaker. A quick "doh! that is why I felt like that!" and "that is why my heart rate was beating so high" moments hit me and have left this race as one that sticks out in my mind. I couldn't wait to return.

So this Sunday we'll be loading the car bright and early and hitting the road to Emerald Bay so I can run this course again. The best part about this race is that it ends on Lester Beach. Literally ON the beach where the Peanut can build endless sandcastles. Hopefully the weather cooperates.

The Saturday before the Buffalo Stampede race we met Jersey Girl and her son LilDude and Scrapbook and her family downtown for the Pro-Cycling Races. It was a fun time. The kids really enjoyed watching the races.

Squeaker was in awe ...

The Peanut busted out the cowbell...

"helping" LilDude not touch the fence...

Showing him how fast she can run...

Trying not to think he's pretty funny...

Yet secretly, I think they have a friendship...

Meanwhile......

The cyclists raced on...

The Peanut climbed trees...

and Vans.

Overall, it was a great Saturday evening. Both kids were fast asleep the minute we arrived home. I just love weekends like the past two we've had ... we're very lucky and blessed.

*******

On a more serious note, I would like to send everyone to The Dylan Flinchum "Rock On" Foundation Facebook page. Please "Like" this page and if you can manage, please look at the page's "Info" tab about sending donations.

Dylan Flinchum is the nephew of my very best friend and the son to my long-time childhood neighbor and friend. This family has been in my life since I was 3 months old living next door to me. Matt, my friend and Mike, Dylan's father have been like brothers to me. Please help support Dylan and his family any way that you can.

This is taken directly from the Facebook Page ...

Shortly after Dylan’s second birthday in January, he began to experience difficulty walking. After being referred to several medical specialists (including some of the top neurosurgeons in the country at Cornell Medical Center in NYC) it was determined that Dylan had a condition known as Chiari malformation. Dylan underwent surgery in the spring and was expected to make a full recovery.

After several weeks of physical therapy, Dylan was not progressing as expected and began to show symptoms that were unrelated to the malformation. A follow up MRI was completed and doctors were shocked to significant change in Dylan's white brain matter. After getting the initial diagnosis from Cornell, Mike and Melissa traveled to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) where it was confirmed that Dylan is suffering from a degenerative disease known as metachromatic leukodystrophy, often referred to as MLD.

As they all prepare to cope with this horrible disease, everyone is focused on one thing, Dylan. Their goal is to make Dylan as happy and as comfortable as possible while bringing as many smiles to his face as they can.

In order to best acheive this, they will likely be missing extended periods of work as well as making many trips back and forth to Philadelphia to be sure that they are providing Dylan with the best care that is offered at CHOP, the top pediatric hospital in the country. Dylan will also require special medical equipment and various types of therapy to make him more comfortable as the disease continues to progress.

The Dylan Flinchum “Rock On!” Foundation has been created as we all want to help ease just some of the burden Mike and Melissa are facing so that they can devote all their time and effort on Dylan. A Facebook page has all been created so please send your kind words and prayers to Mike and Melissa on the Foundation Page (if you have a Facebook account) as they need all of our love and support. We are in the process of planning a Music fundraising event later this fall and hope to organize a walk in the spring.

In the meantime if you would like to contribute to the Foundation or have any other questions, please send an email to:

dylanrockon@yahoo.com

Please send a check to:

The Dylan Flinchum “Rock On!” Foundation
14 Lenape Drive
Stanhope, NJ 07874

BUFFALO STAMPEDE 2011 (RACE RABBIT)

2011-09-11T17:14:00.000-07:00

Today was the the Buffalo Stampede 10 mile race. It begins and ends at Rio Americana High School (aka Van's alma mater). It goes down American River Drive and past my old neighborhood where you turn around and wind back through the neighborhood streets onto American River Drive again making your way back to Rio. It is a great fast flat course. Every year I run this race and every year I wonder "How can such a flat course make me feel like I am losing steam?"

This year I went into this race with one goal in mind. A goal that is very opposite of how I approach any other race ... go slow. I normally start out way too fast and lose speed, quickly. Today I wanted to actually PACE myself.

With five minutes left to spare, Vans dropped me off at the starting line. Literally. Everyone watched me get out of the car. The race directors said a few nice words honoring the memory of 9/11 and then we had 30 seconds of silence.

While milling about the starting area I said hello to a few Buffalo Chips that I used to run with and who have since surpassed me speed wise. I also set my sights on a girl I used to know years ago. Someone I used to play soccer with too. I silently designated her as my "race rabbit." Everyone has one of these. Generally they are someone you recognize or know ... someone that you set your sights on and designate (usually mentally) that you will beat that person or at the very least, stay within sight of them. This girl has been my race rabbit for years. Usually I end up beating her but barely. Today, I just wanted to stay behind her but close.

The race started and she was in front of me. She seemed to be going at a decent pace, nothing too strenuous and I thought "Hey this is going to be a piece of cake." As I was running along I was thinking about mile 4. Mile 4 is where I always see Vans and the Peanut as it is near where we used to live and where my in-laws currently live. Before the race I handed the Peanut a Gu and I told her to hold onto it tight. I told her it was my race fuel and that she could give it to me when she sees me running later. Her eyes lit up. She couldn't wait to give her momma her "race fuel."

GU!

I also told myself that at Mile 4 I am going to stop and say "hi" to Vans and the Peanut and if I lose my race rabbit I won't let her get too far ahead. Mile 4 came and it was great...

Armed with her Gu

and her cow bell ...

she sees her momma!

Momma gets a hug mid-race.

Back on the road again.

However, I saw my race rabbit slowly getting farther and farther away. At mile 5 I took the Gu the Peanut gave me hoping maybe it would give me some juice. It helped. I wasn't suffering at all and I was enjoying the race yet I knew that if I tried to catch my race rabbit that I probably would not be able to maintain my energy level after sprinting to catch her. I slowly just let her go. At mile 7 I could still see her in my sights but I was no where near in a position to catch her and it seemed as if she too was gaining some speed to the finish.

Instead I jockeyed position with a husband and wife team. The husband was quite entertaining as he was the only person who accepted the Krispy Kremes they were handing out at mile 6 ... twice. His wife didn't seem happy and he kept yelling at her to "come on honey! you can do it honey" ... she didn't look too thrilled. I eventually passed them both at mile 8 as I felt the need to accelerate. Oddly at mile 9 he came sprinting by me tell me to "gooooo" yet 20 feet in front of me he just stops. Completely stops. I am guessing he went back to find his wife and finish with her but perhaps mentally he was using ME as HIS race rabbit.

Waiting patiently for momma at the finish. With cow bell. Again.

Even Squeaker was waiting um, semi-patiently.

The home stretch.

As I crossed the finish line I saw Boss and Jessica's Mom from my old ultra-running group. It was nice to see them and Jessica's Mom got to meet Squeaker! I also introduced Squeaker to some Buffalo Chip friends and I chatted it up with my race rabbit after I crossed the finish line. In my age group, she only finished one person in front of me!

Here are my mile splits:

Mile 1: 8:49
Mile 2: 8:40
Mile 3: 8:31
Mile 4: 8:33
Mile 5: 8:37
Mile 6: 8:44
Mile 7: 8:49
Mile 8: 8:45
Mile 9: 8:43
Mile 10: 8:28

My garmin says an 8:39 average but the official race results say 8:44 with a 1:27 finish. Definitely my slowest Buffalo Stampede ever but hey, that was my goal right? I definitely paced myself.

The Peanut also attempted another half mile kids' race but unfortunately because of her slow mother (and forgetful father) we missed the actual race. However, the race director was so awesome he let her run one lap around the track and gave her a medal anyway ....

Run Momma Run!

Almost there!

Peanut gets a medal!

SO happy.

I absolutely love races that have FREE Kid races as well. I think they show case such a great example of fitness and family fun. The Peanut is pretty easy going at most races and really enjoys watching people race. Next year, when the Squeaker is bigger, I will have someone to hold my Gu AND water! :-)

STUBBORN

2011-09-09T13:09:00.000-07:00

I have probably used that title for various posts because that word comes into play a lot in our lives. We are definitely the "Stubborn Family."

First Squeaker is being stubborn. After taking the bottle initially after she was born, she has started refusing it. Completely. She will go five plus hours without taking it and will scream for an hour fighting it. Eventually she has taken the bottle at some point but in increments. This "stubbornness" is stressing me out because she starts daycare in about a month. We are not making any headway here either. I have purchased numerous bottle types and I have even purchased a warmer! The Peanut got her milk cold out of the fridge and never once complained ... so this refusal is something very new to us. The girl is stellar in every way ... minus this one tiny (albeit important) detail ... she's too attached to me. Literally.

But she is so darn cute!

Second the scale is being stubborn. I am currently back to what I was at my first prenatal appointment ... but quite a bit away from where I was and need to be. This is one area of my life where I can practice patience. I know the scale will budge eventually and my diet could use improvement (um, just discovered gluten free cake balls ... such an addiction) but I do have some work attire that I need to fit into in about a month. I guess I need to put down these cake balls huh?

Third I am being stubborn in not wanting to leave the house because Squeaker is being stubborn (see item number 1 above). Last night I was presented with an opportunity to go running with some friends over at Cavitt. I was going to say no and just do my usual run around the house so that I could be home early enough to feed Squeaker and rescue Vans. Well, Vans didn't force me to go but he strongly encouraged me to go and meet my friends even though he knew I would be gone up to 2 hours. So I met my friend Biceps and her friend at Cavitt Junior High and we ran 6 miles on the trails. They were good miles too. I ran all the hills up and down and never walked once. I felt good and strong. I am glad that I went and when I returned home, Vans told me that Squeaker did scream for about 15 minutes and then passed out and basically waited until I got home. That works. It did screw up our usual easy bedtime routine but hey, no complaints.

The Peanut is naturally stubborn. She is 3 after all.

Fourth ... again this points to me (hmmm) I am racing the Buffalo Chips Stampede this weekend. It is a 10 mile race. I love having a blog because I can look back to 2010 and see how I did ... (go here to see it). However, in 2010 I didn't have a new born and I lived a half mile from the start. 2011 I will have a 13 week old who wakes at night to eat, we now live about 30 minutes from the start and I have to get Vans, Squeaker AND the Peanut ready to go ... oh how times have changed. I must practice patience this Sunday. This run/race needs to be purely a training run for me. I have not done 10 miles on pavement yet. Clearly I am way behind my CIM training plan (which has me doing 12). I am hoping that my hilly runs here at the house will make me strong enough to manage the 10 flat miles of the Buffalo Chip Stampede. We shall see. I just want to pace myself well and not start out too fast like I normally do. The Peanut is excited as well because there is kids half mile race immediately following my race ... she's pumped and ready to go!

The girl is always ...

running....love it.

So we have a lot going on this weekend and have had a lot going on this past week. I am still feeling fine minus the wine glass that I accidentally impaled into the palm of my hand on Tuesday morning. Ouch that really hurts and has prevented me from doing my weight training exercises. No I wasn't drinking early Tuesday morning, just doing the dishes.

The Peanut was home sick all week with a bad cough, cold/sore throat combo. I let her get away with a lot of tv watching but really, she just slept ... that is how you know she's really sick because that girl never sleeps. Today she is happily back at school though.

I managed some sprints at the track this past Tuesday. Body feels slow but overall I am feeling more like myself.

I think things are slowly coming back together for us although I am waiting for my third "issue" to happen. I have had two major things happen lately and you know they always come in threes ... first my 911 scare, then the wine glass I had to pull out of my palm ... what next? Wait. Don't answer that.

Trouble.

CAMPING 2011

2011-09-05T14:08:00.000-07:00

First in regards to my last post, all is okay. I am feeling better. Tests all came back negative and I am back running. In fact, I ran 6 miles today to test the body out and it was fine. My pace was even a bit faster than normal. Now if I can only be consistent in my workouts .... CIM might be a slow marathon this year but it will get done.

Over the weekend we went on our annual camping trip. Normally a big group of us go to DL Bliss but this year we camped at Donner Lake instead. For a recap and photos from 2010 ... go here ... amazing how much the kids have changed in a year!

Here are some photos and a recap of our 2011 adventure ...

Squeaker's first camping trip!!! She is so chill.

The Peanut and her BFF Lil REI "help" us blow up the air mattress.

(FYI first time we've ever used an air mattress when camping)

ALL the little people helping me set up our tent!

The kids love to "help." Here they are "helping" the Dem family building their tent.

This two-some was inseparable the entire time.

How many kids can we fit on this scary rock?

(FYI I was dying inside each time one or more climbed on here)

Aerial view of our crazy campsite!

Vans was given the job of "appetizers" which he handled nicely.

Another new baby was added to our growing group!

Lil Baby Dem! (as in Democrat).

Mr. REI brought this cool toy which had the kids (and adults) entertained for hours!

Squeaker was enjoying it all as well.

Dude! It is marsh mellow time! Giant marsh mellows too!

Want some Vans?

They were quiet for a few minutes while stuffing their faces with sugar.

Then it was dark and time for headlamps!

Peanut in her sleeping bag ready for bed!

The view from our tent the next morning.

She was the ONLY one who had a great night sleep ... and she looks like it too.

From how many on a rock to how many in a hammock?

Cute father/daughter moment.

Off to the lake! Jersey Girl's family brought a canoe!

Which really excited the Peanut! Her first ever boat ride!

Beautiful Donner Lake!

Squeaker and I watched from the shore.

Overall it was a great trip as usual. Squeaker slept wonderfully as did the Peanut despite going to bed a bit late because she was laying there listening to all the adults have "fun" while she was told to go to bed.

We packed up from our time at the lake and hurried home to get ready to celebrate Poppa's birthday! The Peanut made him a card and was super excited to give it to him.

We also were excited to welcome Debbie the Great Aunt from Idaho! She came down to visit for Poppa's birthday, see our new home and of course Squeaker and visit with the family.

She is probably my biggest fan in terms of reading this blog and reminds me when I have not posted or updated in a while. She keeps me and this blog moving! This is for you Debbie!

Um, it is really hard to get 3 kids to stay still.

HOME

2011-08-30T14:05:00.000-07:00

The Trailmomma family is home from vacation. I had planned on blogging from our trip but the internet connections were not so great and then I also realized, um, I have TWO kids now ... did I really think I'd have time to blog?

We went to Tahoe for 4 days and 3 nights. We rented a condo in Incline Village (that place has my heart for so many reasons) and spent two wonderful days at two different beaches. Van's birthday also was during this time and we went out to dinner one night ... which is hard to do with two kids under the age of 3.

I didn't run once but had a wonderful time with my family.

Peanut jumping off our diving board before we left

Vans on his BDay morning. The Peanut made him that necklace.

The Peanut playing at the beach in Tahoe.

Pure awesome exhaustion.

Tahoe was awesome. The weather was perfect. The condo was decent and the girls shared a room together for the first time and the Peanut loved it. After 4 days in Tahoe it was time to come home ....

and put on your best Princess dress!

I mean it was time to come home, do laundry and then pack up again and head to San Francisco! The Peanut had never been there before so we booked (on a special deal) two nights at hotel located in Nob Hill. Upon being put in one room that was WAY too small for our family, I called the front desk and some how lucked out in getting us a huge SUITE ... for the same price as our previous small room. The Peanut had her own bed, Squeaker had a nice crib and Vans and I had a luxurious king size bed all to ourselves. It was great.

We succeeded in taking the Peanut to all the awesome places around San Francisco. Like ...

Golden Gate Park

Squeaker didn't like the cold so much

It had the coolest play structure

Not so fun for someone under the age of 1 though

We went to the Exploratorium!

Such an awesome place.

Someone is tired of us taking pictures

After the Exploratorium we hit the Pacific Ocean!

Due to the birds, I was off hiding under a park bench

Then we drove down Lombard Street

Did some shopping around China Town

Rode the trolley cars!

And had a very happy girl.

We also saw the Sea Lions at Fisherman's Wharf and all that goes with that area of San Francisco. Although I never ran once, I carried the Peanut (all 30+ pounds of her) up some pretty steep streets in San Francisco.

We arrived home on a Saturday evening leaving me time on Sunday to squeeze in a run. I ran 8 miles on Sunday over near Beal's Point on the bike trail. I needed the motivation of other runners out there to keep me going. It was a tough four miles back but it felt great. Although I am not where I want to be mileage wise yet, I am definitely getting stronger.

However, yesterday something happened that has changed a few things for me. I won't go into too many details but let me just say it involved me calling 911 for the first time in my life (don't worry, it had nothing to do with the girls). I have a new found admiration for our local fire department and medics as well as those in the emergency rooms of our local hospitals.

I will say that I am in a holding pattern and not allowed to run until after this Friday so it looks like it'll be another week off from running for me. I am okay with this and will actually listen to the doctor's orders because I realized yesterday while riding in an ambulance, that life is short. Too short and things can change in the blink of an eye. Having lost my own mother when I was 17 years old, I've always known life is short but some how, in the mix of life and being busy working and raising kids, I had forgotten. Now, a mother myself, with two beautiful girls, I am reminded and I realize how precious time is and how we should not sweat the small stuff and to hug the ones we love. Daily.

A person's health is an important thing but when you have children your health is not only important for your own sake, it is important for those of your children and your children's children ... if you want to see them grow, go to college, get married and have their own kids ... you have to take the necessary measures in your own life to make sure you're healthy and doing all that you can to ensure that you will not miss out on life's amazing treasures. Your children.

STATS

2011-08-16T13:23:00.000-07:00

Squeaker had her 2 month check up today and that means she received her first round of shots. I know for them the pain is bad but for us mothers (and fathers) it is heart breaking to watch your baby scream and look at you with such big trusting eyes ... oh man how I hate the first year shots ... and even now when the Peanut gets her flu shot ... ugh.

But the Squeaker is one healthy girl!

So happy ...

Her official stats came in at:
Weight: 12 pounds 4.5 ounces
Height: 23 inches

To compare (not that I do) the Peanut's 2 month stat's were:
Weight: 11 pounds 3.3 ounces
Height: 23 1/4 inches

Not too bad. They are right on track following each other! Looking at the Peanut's 2 month photo I am still so shocked to see Squeaker and vice versa. They are practically identical.

A smiling Squeaker

That photo is before she received her shots. She was so happy and coo'ing up a storm for the doctor today. She had no idea what was coming. Poor bug.

The after. Puffy red face. :(

She cried just as much as the Peanut did and even more so. Breaking mom's heart but I know it is necessary. I know vaccinations are a personal decision and a very tough one for some parents. I know how important they are but I always have the autism connection stuck in my head. I have read too many stories and studies from parents that say their kid "changed" after receiving their vaccinations due to the "cocktail" or combination of vaccines etc. I was scared with the Peanut and I am scared with Squeaker but at the same time, not getting vaccinated opens them to a world of terrible diseases and illnesses that are just as scary and life threatening.

I was however approached today by a nurse before Squeaker's shots. She wanted to know if we would participate in a study whereby they would combine some of the shots the Squeaker was to receive today. She was scheduled for 3 shots. They wanted to combine some drugs thereby only giving her 2. In return, they would give me 50 bucks upon each visit where she gets these shots (basically each visit for the next year). The "catch" is that we would have to take her temperature for 5 days after each of the shots. I looked at this woman and said "is this experimental?" and she said "yes, it is." Um, I don't care if you give me $500 dollars each visit ... I am not experimenting with my 2 month old! I am sure it is "safe" and I am sure she would have been fine but I said "No thank you. I am going to follow the same path my oldest went in regards to shots." Wow. Now I am not judging anyone who may have participated in this study. To each their own of course but for me/us ... not what I wanted to try out today.

In other "stats news" the official stats are in from my race on Saturday.

Official Time: 25:10
Official Pace: 8:07
I was 5th out of 61 in my age group.
I was 45th out of 461 overall.

On Sunday I was reading about some new exercises (lunges, squats, lifts etc) so while Squeaker was napping I decided to just try the moves out. Not a real workout but mainly just seeing how I feel doing each of the moves. Um, I am still in a lot of pain and soreness from these moves. My bum and my legs are shaking! I take that as a good thing? That these moves are effective? But I ask you, how do you go about exercising the rest of the week when you are THAT sore? I did these moves on Sunday and I am still really sore. I took Monday off entirely ... but I have a speed workout planned for today ... what should I do? Run and hope that the soreness subsides?

Tomorrow is the Peanut's last day of Summer School. She is beyond excited to be done with that place. Next week we're going on a family vacation so I'll take this blogging on the road with us . . .

to Tahoe! Of course

FIRST RACE POST BABY

2011-08-13T13:50:00.000-07:00

Today I had my first race post Squeaker (who turned 2 months yesterday).

Happy 2 Months kid!

(thanks to Debbie the Great Aunt for the hat and socks)

Today was also the Peanut's first official half mile kid's race. We have signed her up for kid's races in the past only to be met with a "I don't want to run" or "I am scared of the dressed up mascots chasing me." Now, at the ripe old age of 3 ... the Peanut was ready. She practiced earlier this week with me at our local track. Last night, she said she was ready and excited. Let's recap HER race first and then come back to me later because really, HER photos are much cuter than mine.

Before going to bed last night, I told the Peanut she needed to get a good night's sleep because we had to get up early and because she had a race. I pretty much jinxed myself right there. She woke up THREE times last night and for the first time ... she ended up sleeping in our bed. 12:45 am - I helped her go potty, 1:30 am - I snuggled with her for a few minutes, 2:00 am - she is eerily standing at my bed side freaking me out (this is where I just pulled her into bed with us) and then when I got up with Squeaker (who, ahem, can sleep through the night mostly) at 2:30 am ... the Peanut was STILL awake.

Needless to say when the alarm went off, three out of the four of us were exhausted but we loaded the car and headed to Sacramento's River Park for the Susan B. Anthony 5K run. I have done this run for years because I love the area and I love seeing my old running buddies from Buffalo Chips.

Van's dropped us off because we only had a few minutes to spare before the gun went off for the Peanut's race. Luckily, Van's caught the start to give you the following photo display of the race.

The start

I barely had time to get our goody bag before they started the race

Go Peanut Go!

(she wanted to hold my hand at first)

Vans was left with the Squeaker

On the home stretch!

She sees the finish and takes off!

Finished!

So proud of my girl!

(ignore the puffy sleepy mommy please)

Yea, I own that! I ran a half mile!

The rest of the morning she kept saying "I ran a half mile!" I think she's pretty darn proud of herself. Upon crossing the finish line however she noticed something ... her favorite "something" in the whole world ...

A FREE bounce house!

While Vans let the Peanut bounce, I headed to the start of the Women's 5K. I ran into a few Buffalo Chippers along the way. I love the running community, no matter how much time as passed, it is always nice to see old running buddies.

I had no intentions for this race. No goals other than to run and to see how hard I could run. Today was supposed to be my "tempo" run but I knew that I would probably just run and not focus on my pace. I knew that I was about 8 weeks post baby. Ironically, I ran my first 5K post-Peanut when she was 6 weeks old.

June 2008, 6 week old Peanut

5K 25:11/8:07 mile

Wow, that seems like ages ago but I would be lying if internally, I didn't have the same "wish" of sorts in mind. I had no idea what my 2008 time was until after I ran today's race but I knew how I felt running it and wanted the same for this race. When they blew the horn, all bets were off and I just started running.

The Peanut found a prime spot and just waited for me to finish.

I barely looked at my garmin. I only looked at it when I hit the mile markers which consequently looked like this:

Mile 1: 7:41 pace "What they hell!? Where did that come from? This can't be good."
Mile 2: 8:11 pace "Yup, that's what I thought. I'm dying. How long is a 5K again?"
Mile 3: 8:24 pace "Oh thank god, I see the finish!"

Go Mommy Go!

You did it Mommy!

Unofficial Results - 8 week old Squeaker

5K 25:10/8:02 Mile

The girls post race!

(man I look like I need more sleep!)

I still have a long way to go before I reach my 5K PR (22:27/7:14 mile) which was achieved almost a year after the Peanut was born. Still, I am happy with today. Considering the struggle to get back into running, the lack of sleep and having the two most beautiful girls in the world (I am a bit biased), I cannot complain about today's results. The end result was better than expected.

The Peanut was also extremely happy with her results. We stopped at Grandma & Poppa's house and she happily told them she ran a half mile today. I should have her run a half mile more often ...maybe she'd sleep better ... or maybe not ...

Seriously? How is this comfortable?

When we arrived home, just like this morning, 3 out of 4 of us were exhausted again ... the only one not exhausted was Squeaker.

Okay. We're home. Let's play!

RUNNING PARTNER

2011-08-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

Wow, twos days and two posts in a row! Go me! Last night my training plan called for speed work. Nothing huge but it was a 13 minute warm up and then 6 times 1 minute fast 2 minutes easy. During the daytime I did upper body weights on the stability ball and some ab work. When Vans got home from work I laced up my shoes and ran 1.5 miles to our high school track.

I did my speed workout while the high school football team practiced and the high school cross country team stretched. I felt pathetically old and slow. Yet, it was great to be out there and the local track is SO nice and SO soft ... it felt great running on it.

As soon as I finished my workout Vans arrived with my girls! The Peanut has been asking to run with me for weeks but we live in an area with no sidewalks so having her run with me is usually tough. The track was the perfect solution to this problem.

She ended up running/walking two times around the track (a half mile)! She giggled and laughed and told me to "stay in your lane momma!" It was precious. She asked if we could come back and do this again. She ran and was completely out of breath but I think from just giggling while running and not only the running. I love that she had a blast and wants to run with me. She has a half mile kids race this Saturday and she asked me if I would run with her. Who am I to say no?

My running partner!

My other workout or secret to getting back into shape is this ...

you push a 30+ lb 3 year old plus a 12 lb baby along with the weight of a car seat and a jogging stroller UP hill in El Dorado Hills ... that'll get the blood pumping.

A PLAN

2011-08-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

I created myself a plan. A training plan of sorts. The base of my plan are my training runs for CIM but on the alternate days, I have created workouts to accomplish. I am not so sure I can continue this when I am done with maternity leave ... unless of course the average day goes from 24 hours to about 30 hours.

Yesterday was hill day and I wanted to get my workout in early versus waiting until Vans got home and the weather was super hot. I had to get creative though because Squeaker was napping.

Right outside my house is a hill. A fairly decent hill. So I left Squeaker in the bouncy chair where she was sleeping pleasantly and placed her inside the garage with the door open so that I could see her. I ran up and down my hill 10 times passing Squeaker on each up and each down. She woke up once, looked around and fell back to sleep.

I was sweating ...

She was not. It was nice and cool actually.

After the hill workout I hit the weights a little bit and since Squeaker was STILL asleep, I even managed a shower! Score one for mom on Monday! Tuesday is my CIM speed workout and unfortunately I have to wait until Vans is home from work to manage that ... no leaving Squeaker on the track while I sprint.

Hopefully though, Vans will bring both Squeaker and the Peanut to the track tonight while I am running. The Peanut has been asking to run with me for weeks and she has her own kids half mile race this coming Saturday ... of course she needs to get some training in too right?

Dad is in training. On Saturday I had mentioned he had both kids all to himself ... he even ventured outside of the house with them ... his first solo trip.

Daddy's girls ... on their first outing ...

to the skate park of course ...

The rest of the weekend was equally exciting ... Sunday Vans went mountain biking. However, he crashed and he crashed hard. He is now sidelined with some cracked ribs and a knee that is knocked out of alignment and looks gnarly. He's in a lot of pain but seems to be managing. He is more bummed about his upcoming mountain biking season being potentially off calendar now. Not the way he envisioned his summer ending.

The Peanut however is star-struck. She went to a birthday party Sunday evening and met a celebrity. A celebrity that she has seen now repeatedly on commercials in between her My Little Pony shows ...

Captain America!

Too bad Captain American didn't arrive a few hours earlier to help prevent Van's crash.

ECHO ECHO ECHO

2011-08-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

Thursday the Trailmomma family left town. Coach Nikon and his family invited us up to their cabin at Echo Lake and we jumped at the chance to get away from home. The Peanut loves anything Tahoe (she is definitely our child) and she especially loves Cheetah, Coach Nikon's eight year old.

The only caveat on Thursday was that I had an emergency dental appointment at 8:30 down in Sacramento. So I had to wake up early and head down the hill only to turn around and head back up the hill to help load the car with gear and kids and continue another hour and twenty minutes up the hill to the cabin. It was a small price to pay for the glorious weather we had while at Echo Lake. Thursday was probably the coldest day they had seen all week but it felt great.

When we arrived the Peanut was immediately in motion.

In addition to exploring, the Peanut also followed and copied the Cheetah everywhere. The Cheetah who is probably the coolest eight year old I know, seemed to enjoy the Peanut just as much. It is amazing how little kids need to get along. The five year age difference didn't seem to bother the Cheetah as she took the Peanut under her wing. It was pretty awesome to watch.

The Cheetah & Peanut

Meanwhile, the adults had a great time too. Lily, Coach Nikon's wife loves babies and lucky for her, I had Squeaker! I should say lucky for me because she gave me a much needed break at times and I even scored two middle of the day naps while at the cabin. I hardly ever nap during the day so that was pretty nice. Coach Nikon took on the challenge of trying to tire out the Peanut. The first day they took the kids down to the creek.

The Peanut, Cheetah & Coach Nikon

Building a Tee-Pee

Peanut building her own tee-pee

Coach Nikon had forgotten about the inquisitive and crazy mind of a three year old.

Look at my mud pie!

Flowers for Momma!

The Peanut had a blast. She also got to go rock climbing, hiking (sort of) and flower picking.

hiking?

Trail Running!

flower picking

Even Squeaker joined the fun to Echo Lake

Hiking to Echo Lake = Ice Cream Reward!

The view itself is reward enough

The gang also made a trip to Lake Tahoe to play on the beach.

The Cheetah helping the Peanut

The Peanut helping the Cheetah

A tired & cold Peanut ... who had a blast!

While they were busy doing all of that, Squeaker and I were busy doing all of this back at the cabin ...

Zzzzzz!

We drove home late Friday evening with both kids fast asleep in the car. It was one of those trips where the transfer of the sleeping kid from the car to the bed was a success. We don't have those often in our house but everyone was so exhausted from the day's activities.

I woke up this morning feeling refreshed and energized from having spent just a few days at altitude. There is nothing like going for a run after having spent time at altitude. Coach Nikon is training for a 100 mile race and has been running daily up there. He inspired me to put on my running shoes today. I looked at my CIM training plan and it called for 8 miles today 30 seconds above predicted marathon pace. Well, considering I haven't been running much of anything lately, 8 miles was asking a bit much but I headed out there with good intentions of going farther than I have in a while.

I hate out and back courses because they are boring. However, living where I now live, flat surface is hard to come by so I set out on the only semi-flat road I know. I was bored immediately but I was feeling pretty good. I noticed I was quickly approaching the Serrano hill and I kept glancing at it thinking "do I?" "should I?" "am I ready?" when all of a sudden this came on my ipod. It was the jolt I needed and I set off up the hill which turned into a bike trail of sorts that went straight up in some sections and then switch-backed in others.

over-look point at the top

I only stopped to take a few photos with my phone at the overlook otherwise I pretty much sludged up that hill at a snail's pace but running none the less.

more up hill after the over-look

I was feeling pretty darn good and then I hit mile 5 and the normal stomach issues I've been battling lately hit me but not enough to force to me stop. It seems I am slowly able to run a little farther each time before things head ahem, south. Still, the overall mileage was 6 miles total and I was able to score one or two sub-nine minute miles in that mix.

When I arrived home, Vans surprised me by taking both girls out to wash my car! It was his first solo trip out with both kids (and everyone survived) so I immediately took advantage and went up to the pool for a quick dip ... in my running clothes. I didn't even bother to change I just walked in waist high. It wasn't cold but enough to ease the joints a bit. Then I followed up with some upper body weights and a shower. What a great way to start a Saturday!

It has been a great few days. Sometimes, just heading an hour away from your house for a night with good company is all it takes to hit that "reset" button. My reset button has been pushed and I am looking forward to the week ahead and finally tackling my CIM training plan as best I can.

One, Two, Three . . .

Reset.

SISTERS

2011-08-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

The summer is slowly winding down. I cannot believe it is August already and that Squeaker will be 2 months old ... in a few weeks. My maternity leave seems to be flying by and I don't feel as if I have accomplished anything even though there is nothing "to" accomplish when on maternity leave other than to nurse and love a growing baby. Which I am doing, quite well actually. Squeaker is growing like a weed. She is seven weeks old (last Sunday) and someone commented to me that she seems "bigger" than her seven weeks. Although size doesn't matter to me, her demeanor definitely seems older than seven weeks. She has been smiling since 4 weeks. Rolling since 4 weeks (although not often) and cooing up a storm. I am waiting with bated breath for her giggles. Nothing makes me happier than hearing infant (and toddler) laughter. Music to my ears.

The Peanut is still not overly impressed with Squeaker. She shows interest in her when I am knee deep in diapers or fussing periods but overall, Squeaker is still this little person taking up mommy's time, especially at night. Still, she does love her. I can tell.

I never had a sister but I always wanted one. There was also something special that I noticed between sisters and I envied that. That bond that exists and continues into adulthood is something I cannot wait to see between my two girls. I am so thankful I was gifted with two beautiful girls and I look forward to watching their relationship blossom through the years.

Sisters. Forever.

A WEEK OFF

2011-07-31T09:17:00.000-07:00

Just like my last post said, I took a week off from running and all cardio really (minus my spin class on Monday). Instead I dug out my stability ball and I worked on core and some upper and lower body exercises. Nothing strenuous at all but it was nice to focus on my core for once. One thing you notice when you have a new baby is that a lot of photographs get taken ... consequently you notice how terrible your posture is when you see yourself in 103 photos. The hunched over look is really not appealing at.all. I am definitely guilty of having terrible posture and I have made a mental note to really work on that.

My week was fairly uneventful minus a dental appointment that had me so numb and sore I was happy I didn't have to do any cardio.

Thursday however was an exciting day. Vans got called into work and wasn't home (he is usually off every other Thursday while I am home on leave) so I was left with both the Peanut and Squeaker for the entire day. The last time this happened I made plans with Mrs. REI at their local splash park so the kids could play. This time, I tried to entertain on my own.

The first order of business was to visit Gold Bug Park up in Placerville. I had never been but I had done some research and figured it would be a neat place to bring the Peanut and it wasn't too far from home that Squeaker would have a fit in the car. The temps were also supposed to be 99 that day so what better activity than to go inside a really cold gold mine?

Where are we going mommy?

yeah!!!

Yes they made adults wear hard hats so we don't bump our heads on the low rocky ceilings in the cave. They also give the adults an audio tour stick where you can listen to "a ghost" tell you all about the mine. I have to admit, the whole "ghost" thing didn't sit well with the Peanut ... at first.

but she had me to protect her

and of course Squeaker

The inside of the mine was quite cold which was great for us but not so much for Squeaker although she didn't seem to mind one bit. She didn't sleep one bit either though.

Can't go this way

The Peanut had a blast walking through the cave with its muddy wet floors but she had to hold my hand because she wasn't loving it THAT much.

touching the wet rocky walls

finally enjoying "the ghost" stick as it told us about the mine

The whole experience is not very long, especially at 3 year old speed (she didn't like listening to all of the audio tour, only parts). So we really did a speed tour of the gold mine.

run away baby!

The Peanut was also very disappointed that we did not find any gold however all was forgotten when she realized there was a resident puppy on the property AND that they sell "rock candy" in the gift shop. All was right with the world again.

After the Gold Mine the volunteer suggested we take a "short walk" up the "little hill" to the Stamp Mill to see what was going on there. Um, yeah short walk maybe but "little hill" it was not. I put Squeaker in the carrier and carried her on my chest while pushing the Peanut (all 30+ pounds of her) in the jogging stroller (aka BOB) up this enormous hill. So much for taking it easy this week huh?

Yet, the Stamp Mill was cool. We met Carter the resident Blacksmith and he gave us a little intro into what he was working on using horse shoes. The Peanut was a little shocked to find out that horses wear shoes!

look at the pretty rocks Mommy!

A chair just my size!

Look at me Mommy!

The Stamp Mill was small and another quick visit. The Peanut enjoyed walking around the shop though and looking at the strange little things.

She also enjoyed this wheel that was placed randomly out front. She asked if she could check it out and who am I to say no. She was having fun.

However that was about it for Gold Bug Mine. Not much else to do or see. They have a nice picnic ground area and you can pan for gold but I could tell I was about the lose the interest of the Peanut and Squeaker was already squeaking away at me. It was time for stop number 2 on my planned agenda for the day.

We loaded into the car and drove up the freeway to The Fudge Factory Farm! Surprise! I was so excited to take the Peanut to the Fudge Factory Farm that I think I was more disappointed than she was to arrive there only to find out it was closed! Their ad had said they were open but alas they were not.

I also had two very hungry kids on my hands so I sort of disobeyed the rules and just plopped ourselves down for a picnic on the closed grounds of High Hill Ranch in Placerville.

just sitting and enjoying . . .

our own private pond.

We have been working with the Peanut on introducing new foods. She is the world's pickiest eater (as was I when I was a kid) so today's new food was cream cheese and jelly sandwiches!

not loving it but at least trying it

The kid doesn't even like peanut butter and jelly so doing any sort of picnic with her is a hard task in terms of what to pack. I figured she likes cream cheese and she kind of likes jelly so why not together? Apparently, not a big hit.

Squeaker didn't seem impressed either

Finally after our picnic lunch, I had one final stop in mind. Actually, this final stop came into play once I found out that the Fudge Factor Farm was closed.

Whistle Stop Yogurt, Placerville

The Peanut is always down for some frozen yogurt so I figured why not break up the drive home with a quick stop (they also had a restroom large enough to fit all three of us, aaaah).

Overall I would say the day was fun. It was some great bonding time with the girls and the Peanut enjoyed our little adventure. She is pretty easy going (minus the picky eating thing). I was definitely exhausted by the time we got home ... but I wasn't the only one ...

Mission accomplished

REALITY

2011-07-24T13:49:00.000-07:00

After my run on Wednesday, I basically took Thursday and Friday off from running. I would not say I was being lazy because I do have two kids to look after and I even managed some upper body work. However, on Thursday I was feeling extra tired. I think running combined with the heat and very little sleep and rest is starting to catch up to me as I wasn't feeling very well. Reality is setting in.

I told myself, I was saving myself for a run on Saturday morning. I wanted to try that five mile trail loop by my house again. However, when I woke up Saturday morning I could tell it was going to be a challenge. My stomach has not been feeling well lately and Saturday morning was no exception. I figured I would give it a shot anyways hoping things would work itself out while on my run. In short, they didn't and my five mile run turned into mostly a five mile walk. I decided (while on this long unexpected walk) that maybe I will take a week off from running. Even though my legs and lungs feel fine to run, something still not quite right since Squeaker arrived (who is 6 weeks today!). It might also just be a lack of quality sleep making my runs rough on my body too. I remember going through the same thing with the Peanut after she was born. Either way, this week long break will be tough because mentally, I need to run sometimes, even just for a moment to myself. It also throws a loop into my CIM training plan which technically starts next weekend. With the Peanut I had three to four months before I started training for the marathon, this time I am less than two months after delivery. I have no goals for CIM other than to finish it healthy and without hindering my milk supply. I need to just relax and let the training happen naturally. If I can manage the long runs down the road then I think I will be okay.

Like I said, I had a lot to think about on that forced five mile walk. Later in the day the four of us went to the State Fair. It is tradition for us and we generally go with the REI Family. This year was no exception other than we were crazy to go on a Saturday evening (we normally go on a week night evening). The fair was packed and it was hot (for the first few hours). Still, the Peanut and Little REI had a blast together and I got an additional work out in unexpectedly.

that is 30+ lbs on my back

The fair parking lot was full so we had to park really far away and walk (maybe 3/4 of a mile) to the fair ... carrying all of our things.

Squeaker came too!

The Peanut and Little REI had a blast running around and eating really terrible fried foods but that is what you do at the State Fair ... and of course ride some rides. This year, the girls were finally tall enough to ride the kiddie rides!

Driving the boat

Having a blast

They got to stay up really late too and watch the fireworks at the end. Overall, an exhausting day all around. Squeaker was awake most of the time at the fair as well and stayed awake when we got home...until after midnight! I was up with her most of the night which made waking up today, extremely painful.

Also today I was invited to attend Diane Cressey's Breakout Fitness TRX intro class. I've been researching and looking into the TRX workout system for a long time but could not figure out how to install it in our house. When presented with a chance to see how this system works, I was all over it ... even if it meant attending the class on little to no sleep AND six weeks post baby.

I basically stumbled out of bed this morning feeling awful and made my way to Breakout Fitness. The class was an hour long and not a full workout but a basic intro into how the system works and all the different moves we could do. Let me tell you, for not being a "real" workout ... I can barely sit here and type this my arms are screaming. We did some bicep and tricep moves that are really tough and I won't even go into how incredibly weak my core is right now and how difficult it was to do a suspended plank move. Ouch.

we did most of these moves or a variation

It was killer and of course made me come home and tell Vans "I want it!" ha ha He is used to my coming home and telling him I want this treadmill or this strange contraption ... he just usually rolls his eyes at me although this time, I think he would actually benefit and enjoy the TRX system ... if we could only figure out how to suspend it securely in our garage. . . hmmmmm.

FIRST TRAIL RUN POST BABY

2011-07-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

Tonight I ran my first official trail run post-baby! For days Vans has been encouraging me to run this trail near our house. I think mostly he is tired of hearing me moan and groan about how hard running three miles is in and around our neighborhood. They don't call it El Dorado Hills for nothing ... there are some brutal hills here. Vans said this trail is rather flat and that he didn't think it was that long. It is also within running distance of our home which is rare in these parts.

Instead of doing my 5:30 am spin class that I normally do on Monday mornings, I decided to do this run. Mostly, being up four to five times in the middle of the night (the last being about 3:30 am) I was too exhausted to go to spin and decided to listen to the doctor and not ride a bike for at least one more week.

Vans agreed this morning that I could go for a run tonight when he got home from work since I missed out on my morning exercise. All day long I have been looking forward to this run. I am not exactly sure why since I have been running every other day or so but there is something about finding a new route that is exciting.

The first mile from our house is on roads and bike trail but soon you hit the trail head.

I look rather pained at just a mile into the run huh?

I am wearing head phones but I don't normally run with music (especially when running on trails or a place with traffic). However, earlier today I had an email exchange with Coach Nikon wherein he admitted his adoration for one of my all time favorite bands/singers ... Bon Jovi (Coach Nikon - this is for you). So I had the itch to listen to a little Bon Jovi but once I hit the trails, I took out my ear buds. I am glad that I did too because this was no ordinary trail.

New York? I felt right at home when I saw this!

It started off with an open dirt road...but things did change

Just like my old running adventures, this one did not disappoint. Here I thought Vans was sending me on an easy trail run that was basically like a fire road ... but once I got past a certain point ... the adventure started.

First I encountered a stream crossing! My first post-baby stream crossing!

Okay, more like puddle jumping ...

Mountain Lion Warnings!

I also passed quite a few men walking their dogs and some teenagers making out on a nearby bench but my all time favorite was the family out shooting their bee bee guns!

I tried to take a photo as I walked by. Not very discreet.

The trail kept going and going. Vans said it would spit me out at a school and sure enough I came across the foot bridge leading to the school.

Of course I made the wrong turn (I was intrigued by some beautiful homes that I had to see up close) and I ended up a little farther down the road than I wanted to be.

I won't lie, even though the trail was mostly flat, I didn't run the entire thing. I needed to walk at times. The longest my runs have been lately is three miles and even then, I am walking up the major hills. Tonight's adventure however, ended up being five miles! Five! I had to scold Vans a little as he told me he thought it was only 3 or so. Oops. Still, it was fun and I enjoyed having a different route to take. I had toyed with running out at Beal's this coming Saturday but after dying on this run, I think I might hold off before tackling something like Beal's. Maybe I will try this run again instead.

With the weather being so mild these past few weeks I could run with Squeaker in the BOB jogger but having done that once ... it is brutal when I hit the hills and I really need to focus on my form since my core is still rather weak.

I am working on strengthening my core and upper body during the day when I am not giggling over the gummy smiles Squeaker is giving me lately. She is truly smiling at me and had another major milestone this week ... she rolled over from back to belly! She's just a joy to be around and is such a sweet and mild baby.

Hello Smiley!

Sorry about the sideways photos ... darn iPhone pics won't rotate.

GO GO GO

2011-07-15T09:43:00.000-07:00

It has been an exciting and busy week. Jersey Dad and Jersey Step-Mom are out visiting (they leave tomorrow). It has been a week full of doing this and that and going here and there. Most importantly, it has been a week of spoiling for the Peanut and her mommy! I have been able to shower without two sets of eyes crying outside my shower for me to hurry up. I have been able to eat with two hands instead of one handed holding Squeaker and twice this week Vans and I have been able to get out of the house SANS kids! We saw one movie (Horrible Bosses, which is the funniest movie I have seen in a very long time) and the another night we went out for dinner that did not involve high chairs and bribery to finish your plate! Just what I needed.

We have also had fun outings together too. The Peanut especially being spoiled and treated to all sorts of fun!

Games with "Poppy" during lunch

Hot Dogs for lunch

Special laps to sit on whenever you want

The Peanut is really enjoying her time with Poppy and Gramie and I think they are really enjoying their time with her. Two weeks a year is just not enough sometimes but 3,000 miles is a long distance to cover.

chopsticks

getting better!

Of course we haven't gone out to eat every night but it has been nice to have family time together these past few days. Whether playing, swimming, eating or going for walks, everyone I think is a little exhausted come the end of the day.

quite flexible at this age

Squeaker has been spoiled lately too although not quite the same way. A few more arms to hold her and of course being dragged to all the restaurants, zoos, parks and stores will tire a newborn out.

sometimes she is tired

Overall I am sad to see this visit come to an end tomorrow. I know the Peanut will be sad too especially when she realizes she'll have to go back to summer school on Monday.

Other news this week includes my four week post-partum check up. I was given the "OK" to start running again although I have secretly been running a few miles here and there. I was given the official "OK" to swim too even though once again, I've been swimming a few times already.

As I eluded in my last post, I had a surprise Monday activity. When I was about 7 months pregnant I decided to sign up for a spin class through our local community service. It was special deal I could not pass up. Five one hour spin classes (once a week at 5:30 am) for only $35 total. Vans thought I was nuts knowing I'd only be four to six weeks post-baby depending on my delivery date. I, on the other hand, was being optimistic. I knew I would need a kick in the pants to really up my exercise and was truly hoping that I would be close to six weeks versus four weeks post baby. Well, I was four weeks and one day when Monday morning arrived. The class was pretty cool but also very difficult. I haven't been on a spin bike in a very long time. I sweat a lot though which is what I wanted but I also forgot that a spin bike SEAT is not very comfortable (um, especially after having a baby). Still, I survived the class and the extra ab workout they had afterwards. No one at home missed me (well, maybe Vans who actually had to be semi-awake and on alert for any waking kids).

However, the one activity my doctor did put the "red light" on was biking ... for at least two more weeks which is all that I have left in terms of my spin classes. I still plan on attending my spin classes but modifying it a bit so that I am not seated for very long. We'll see how that goes.

Tonight we are heading out to the concert in the park with the whole gang. Tomorrow we will have to say goodbye to Gramie and Poppy when they head back to New Jersey. That'll be a sad morning.

LOFTY GOALS

2011-07-08T22:43:00.000-07:00

Today I woke up with the glorious idea that maybe I could go for a 3 mile run. Actually, I assumed I would be walking some if not most of the three miles but in my heart I really hoped that I would run more than I would walk.

After getting up at 4:30 a.m. with Squeaker I was up again at 6:30 with her briefly and decided there was no real point in going back to bed. I could not get the idea of running out of my head.

First post baby run pic

I was so optimistic that I was going to succeed in running that I took a typical blog self portrait!\

Even charged my Garmin!

The fact that my heart rate was 97 before I even started running should have been an indication of what my run would be like. I am definitely out of shape. I ran probably about a mile before my stomach started objecting big time. I remember I went through the same thing after the Peanut was born. I think my body needs to remember what to do and until it does, any future runs create havoc on my digestive system.

Part of my run is on dirt so it was nice to pretend that I was trail running even though I really wasn't. My three mile route goes through some very nice neighborhoods but it is mostly pavement. It is also fairly hilly.

Going down hill

this was a secret "hip shot" of one of the houses I run by

I pretty much walk/ran/walked the entire three miles (mostly walking). I even ran a little hill in one of the gated communities I run through.

gated community

I am not disappointed in my run because I know it has only been 3 weeks and 5 days since I gave birth to Squeaker. Next week is my post-partum doctor appointment. I am curious to see if I get the green light to do more activity or if my doctor will put the red light on what I am doing thus far.

I don't see how walking or running a little here and there is any different than taking care of an infant and a three year old all day. Neither activity has me "taking it easy" at all so I might as well run.

Today the Peanut, Squeaker and I went to our local library for a puppet show. Squeaker pretty much slept in the car seat while the Peanut climbed all over me like I was her own personal jungle gym. Later today all four of us went to the free concert in the park our local community puts on. They had a Tom Petty tribute band so I was eager to go even though I was completely exhausted.

My girls

Once again, the human jungle gym

For now I will take it easy. Jersey Dad and my step-mom come out tomorrow for an entire week which means that Vans and I will get a few nights out alone sans kids! Neither of us can barely wait. We already have a few movie ideas in mind and my dad and step-mom are beyond excited to have the girls to themselves. The Peanut is also excited to be spoiled rotten with presents and attention.

I am truly hoping I get the green light to do more activity since I'll have a live in helper during the week allowing me to escape 30 minutes here and there for a run or two. I also have a surprise activity happening on Monday morning ... so stay tuned as Trailmomma struggles to regain her fitness one day at a time.

TRAILBABY

2011-07-07T08:16:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in my last post, I came up with a nickname for Trailbaby. It sort of just came to me one day when I was with her.

When I look at her it is like deja vu. I see the Peanut. Visually, she looks exactly like the Peanut at this age (minus a little fullness in the lips). However, Trailbaby's demeanor and behavior is nothing like the Peanut at 3 weeks old.

The Peanut, although an awesome toddler was quite the challenging infant. She had colic from about 2 weeks until almost 10 or 12 weeks. Not just for a few hours either. I remember it starting at 2 pm and lasting close to midnight. Vans and I were beside ourselves with worry thinking something was terribly wrong with her.

She had to be swaddled like a burrito every time she was put down to sleep. She needed her pacifier or else we were left with blood curdling screams that were so loud that even our friends remember how loud her vocal cords were at only 3 weeks old. She came out in the delivery room screaming "put me back in" and continued screaming for probably the first hour. Still, I cannot deny she is probably the best toddler around. She speaks her mind, she says please and thank you and may I often. Other than her less than stellar bedtime routine (which I suppose we're to blame for that) she's truly one special child. I barely remember that whenever she got teeth she got them FOUR.AT.A.TIME and had all of her teeth including molars before she was two.

Trailbaby could not be any different. Swaddling? What is that? The kid hates the swaddle and prefers to sleep free and clear and in her own crib mind you! At three weeks old versus sleeping in mom and dad's room (ahem, like the Peanut did for a long while).

content and smiling

Luckily it took me only the first few nights to realize that she does not like to be bound up. Sure she has that nervous twitch all infants have but it doesn't wake her at all. You know what else doesn't wake her? The vacuum, the blender, the phone, the doorbell and most importantly HER SISTER! Trailbaby can sleep through it all! She also came out in the delivery room with one cry and then that was about it. She's an observer for sure. She just likes to take it all in.

She also eats well and poops well leaving us with very little worry. At three weeks she is already 9.5 pounds and passed her two week checkup with flying colors.

My stepmom said that sisters are like two different flowers from the same garden. I like that because it is so true. I expected the girls to be different just not so different at birth. I figured I'd have one tomboy and one princess. One runner and one mountain biker. I still might I suppose. I know that Trailbaby will grow up watching her sister and want to emulate her at times. Hopefully she'll pick up on all the good behavior the Peanut has and skip the few drama sessions we have when she's overtired or hungry.

One of the biggest differences though between the Peanut and Trailbaby however I already mentioned; her vocal cords. Trailbaby's trachea is not fully formed or "firm" yet. It is a common thing among infants and it generally means she has a raspy breath and sometimes difficulty in swallowing a lot of milk at once. It is nothing to be concerned about. However, before realizing she had this issue, I had started calling her ... Squeaker. I called her Squeaker because her cries are so soft that I can barely even hear her at times. Other times, she'll just look up at me and make this cute little noise, almost like a squeak. Hence the name Squeaker.

The Peanut & Squeaker

I am sure at some point in her life she will no longer "squeak" and will be as vocal as her older sister but forever in my heart, I will always hear that "squeak squeak" noise she makes as an infant.

Sisters

The girls

INDEPENDENCE DAY

2011-07-04T08:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July everyone! I apologize for being MIA for a bit. Life has been getting busy or rather Trailbaby is awake more hours of the day now which requires more attention from me.

I do have some exciting news to share but first a recap of what has happened in about a week. Vans had his final mountain bike race and then had his mountain bike race awards. He ended up winning fourth in his age division which is two places up from where he was last year. He missed being on the podium by only a few points.

Sarcasm and Vans post race

Sarcasm actually took third place in his age division. Vans also didn't win anything for attending all the races (much to his disappointment). The whole raffle thing was kind of a joke to be honest. Maybe next year he will place and win the attendance award. Either way, next year he will have three girls cheering him on instead of his usual two!

It was a hot day! Next year I'll have two girls in my arms.

Other than attending mountain biking events, we've been doing a lot of swimming at our house. We have had a few friends over to swim. Our pool is quite warm despite the rainy weather (yes, rainy!) we had last week.

In other exciting news ... I have done some running!!! Nothing too exciting. It started with a 10 minute run on Saturday. I had attempted running a week earlier, just a few steps here and there but it did not feel quite right yet. On Saturday I ran for 10 minutes through our hilly neighborhood. On Sunday I went for a 3 mile walk and also incorporated some running here and there. So far so good although I am tired. I will be taking the next few days off but it does make me happy to see that running is hopefully in my near future. My post-partum doctor visit is next week (4 weeks post-baby) so I will be curious to see where I stand. I also went swimming for the first time despite doctor's orders to wait four weeks. I can't say it felt great and I will probably wait it out another week or so before going back into the pool.

Finally, we had our first marshmallow roast at our house. The benefit of having a pool that gets a lot of sun is that it tires out a certain three year old quite easily. The downfall is that sometimes she falls asleep a bit too early (like at 5:00 pm) ... which means she'll be up later in the evening. On one of these occasions, we busted out our fire pit and decided to roast some marshmallows!

firepit!

Trailbaby was 3 weeks yesterday and has her "two week" appointment tomorrow. I am curious to see how her stats have changed. I can tell she has gained weight as her newborn clothes are starting to get a bit snug. However, I have discovered that when I eat dairy (which is minimal since I am lactose intolerant) she has troubles. Therefore I am attempting to eliminate all dairy from my diet. The only dairy I consumed really was my daily Greek yogurt which I will miss terribly but even I feel better when I don't eat any dairy. This may be the kick start my diet needed anyway as I do have to start getting back on track with eating better. The pregnancy is over, no more indulgences!

I also came up with a nickname for Trailbaby. It isn't what anyone else would have predicted but it something, a trait, I have noticed with her. I will have to post about it separately though when I have more Trailbaby photos to share ... we've been slacking in the photo department although we did succeed in doing our baby announcements before her six week birthday ... which was sadly the case with the Peanut's announcement after she was born.

I hope everyone is having a safe and happy Fourth of July!
~Trailmomma

BEFORE AND AFTER

2011-06-28T15:09:00.000-07:00

Today I got bored and decided to take Trailbaby with me to get my hair cut. I get bored with hair very easily. If you look back at all the random hair styles I've had over my lifetime ... you'll see I've had a lot.

I have spent the last two years growing out my hair and my hair color ... it was time for a change or rather a return to an old look. Some might say I look very "mom-like" now but I just like to think I look more Trailmomma-ish.

First the "before" look (keep in mind I am on diminished sleep here ... )

The front

The Back

Now the "AFTER" cut ...

The back

Ta-Da!

This is what women who have had children do when they come home realizing their clothes won't fit ... they cut their hair instead. :-)

Trailbaby was a gem the entire time in the salon too ... and I have come up with a nickname for her but am not quite ready to share. It came to me one day and seems to have stuck.

In other exciting news, the Peanut had a play date with her best friend from her old daycare. They were in heaven playing together again.

Best friends since 3 months old

two little monkeys

and one BIG fish! :-)