Like a Roller Coaster

13.1 Update:

My half marathon is on Sunday!  I am anxious and nervous for this race.  A few weeks ago I felt very prepared and confident, but now I don't feel the opposite.  It's like this race and I are in the early stages of high school dating. [It's a little bit exhausting.  Mentally and Physically.]  I am very excited to complete this race and breaking up with the treadmill since we've recently spent together spent so much time together [the treadmill and me].  

Here are a couple of things I've come to realize in the past few weeks:

-Training for a half-marathon during the school year is not the best idea...especially right before conferences.  I have multiple teacher friends who ran/are running running races around this time, and although I haven't talked to them about their training experiences, I know I won't time it like this again.  I hate not having enough time to commit to training.  I hate when my workout adds to my stress because my day doesn't have enough hours in it.  If there's a next time that I run 13.1 miles, I will not do it the week of conferences!

-The last 4 weeks of training is the worst possible time to get sick.  My body's encountered just about every germ and bacteria possible [not really, but it has been a lot!] in the past few weeks, which has kept me in my bed, counting down the minutes until the next dose of medicine, attached to a box of Kleenex, or chugging liquids.  I have continued to run, but I haven't been able to keep up with my training guide.   It's been very frustrating.  Thankfully I am healthy now!  So I am praying [seriously, I am not just using that as a figure of speech] that I will stay well and make it across the finish line.

I can't believe the race is next weekend! Ahh!  Want some good news?  I have broken in my new Asics and I will be beachbound on Friday.

So, ready or not, wish me luck!  

Running Reflections

Training for a half marathon allows for a whole lot of time to think.  Miles and miles you run, and if you're like me, you're running without the company of others.  And since it's cold, running means many miles on a treadmill.  In the midst of those miles my thoughts flow freely as my feet repeat the same steps over and over.  So here you go... just a few of the thoughts I've had about running while running:

A squinty smile as I approached the finish line
at the end of my 1st half marathon.

1. Why did I think this would be a good idea? 

I ran my first half marathon in 2012 on Thanksgiving Day.  It was a far-fetched new year's resolution.  Honestly, I'm not sure where or why I was interested in running 13.1 miles, because before that January I'd never even run a 5K.  Though I ran occasionally, in my mind running was still more of a punishment to me than an enjoyable form of exercise.  

About halfway through my training I lost all interest and motivation.  I never ran more than 8 miles in preparation for the race on Thanksgiving Day and waited until the day before the race [you read that right] to buy new shoes, making the half marathon the first time I even wore my new Asics.  Luckily, my feet didn't blister at all [praise God] but unfortunately my feet were in such bad shape from wearing old running shoes, that I could hardly walk for a few days.  I think it'd be safe to say that my finishing that race at all was a miracle. 

To be completely honest with you, I have no idea why I thought running another half marathon would be a good idea.  I guess I'd always told myself that if I were to do another one that it'd be one with a nice view... so along came the Seaside Half and like a fool I registered.  Incase you were wondering, my amount of physical activity at the time I signed up for the race was limited to the walking around my classroom all day and possibly a walk with the pups at night... and that was it!  [You won't offend me by asking yourself, 'What was she thinking?']  

But here I am... training once more for a 13 mile run.  It probably wasn't the best idea, but I am more excited this time.  I have trained [so far] much better.  Just so you know, I ran 8 miles on Sunday...which made me incredibly proud of myself.  I also just bought a new pair of shoes.  They'll be here on Wednesday and I will be able to run at least a few times before running the stretch of 30A.   We'll see how this goes, but I think I'm making some good steps to make this a better experience, right?

2. Running is a lot harder than it appears.

Like I said, I have always viewed running as more of a punishment than as something I would willingly do by myself.  Growing up in an athletic family, we played lots of sports but running wasn't one of them.  At some point I remember hearing someone say, "Running is for people who aren't coordinated to do anything else.  Anyone can do it."  I will say right now, I could not disagree more with that statement.

I have never done a sport more mentally exhausting than to train myself for a half marathon.  Running is such a mental game.  Yes, obviously your muscles need to train and you must build endurance, but if you can't mentally find the will to do it, you won't.  If your mind it telling you to stop, you will.  If that little voice inside your head is saying, "This sucks," then it truly does and you won't keep going.  At the same time, if you can get your mind to enjoy it, to long for it, and to enjoy running, you will have a little pep in your steps.  

Training is an interesting experience.  I've never been challenged similarly.  It's a challenge I've put onto myself and although somedays I constantly ask myself why I thought I should do this again, I am enjoying it.  I love to push myself.  Although I know I won't ever be a stellar runner or set any sore of records, I am proud of myself so far and I am excited to run 13.1 miles again.  Wish me luck!

springin' forward

These are puppy treats I picked up while in Athens last weekend.
 {No, I did not break Lent over Shamrock cookies...
although, these smelled like Gingerbread and it was sliiiightly tempting!}
 Bridget and Mook went bananas over them!

The warm[er] weather is making me incredibly happy!  I absolutely love the Spring flowers, sunny afternoons, and longer days.  Byron and I spent the days before Springing Forward with Cal & Ashley in Athens.  They're such wonderful friends and we're incredibly thankful for them.

a weekend of firsts: smoked biscuits {whoops!}, your pie, & jittery joes [how on earth was this my first trip there?!]

I decided my race for March would be the Shamrock 'N Roll on March 10th.  When I registered for it I obviously was not thinking that it would be the morning of Daylight Savings.  Also, when registering, Byron told me I should run the 10K instead of the 5K, so I signed up [I didn't want to let him down].  Now, just so you know, I haven't run over 2 miles [with the exception of the two 5Ks I've run in 2013] since the Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon...so I was a little lot nervous for the race, which was only a week after I registered.

excited/nervous/anxious face...ready, set, goooooo.

Because my husband is awesome, he always wakes up early and accompanies me to my races.  Who knows what he does while I'm running, but he's ready at the finish line to snap a photo of me.  [This time he deceived me by standing about a hundred yards before the actual finish line...it was a trick finish...but that's neither here nor there ;)] p.s. how long is my hair!?! whoa!  

1 hr, 1 min

I couldn't be more happy with my finish time -- given the fact that I have't run six miles since November -- and the fact that I didn't feel like I was gonna die when I crossed the finish line!  I'm not a fast runner by any means, so when I finished in my personal best with my legs feeling great, it was a big accomplishment for me.  And... a little incentive that I need to step up my game.  I'm feeling encouraged after that run and ready to push myself! :)

where did february go?!

Wasn't it just Valentine's Day?!  How is it already the second week of March? [Let me tell you...] The chaos of projects, parent conferences, and busy weeks & weekends greeted February, then quickly shoo-ed it away. I can't say I'm complaining as I'm itching for warmer weather, Spring flowers, afternoon walks, longer days, and sunny skies, but before we get swept up in all things March, here's a quick photo re-cap of the second-half of the second month of 2013:

tulips are my absolute favorite.

February race: Run for Orphans

puppy snuggles on cold winter days.

a little redecorating

[I reupholstered our chair - so long 1990s, Zack Morris fabric!]

[I found this PB pitcher at Goodwill for $2.00 {score!} and turned it into a vase with some hydrangeas]

more puppy snuggles

a nice weekend with Mr. & Mrs. Gordon.

So long, February. . .

Hellooooooooo, March!

cold weather brings . . . a cold

It's nice that the temperature finally feels like it should in January, but unfortunately the cold weather brings sickness, too.  I'm pretty sure I've consumed an unnatural amount of hot drinks and soup-like meals during the last 6 days.  Obviously no one enjoys being sick, but I absolutely hate it.  So, to be honest, this post is mostly for me, because I need to focus on the little things that bring joy to into my life when I'm not feeling so hot.

things that've made me happy while feeling quite crappy:

- Sweethearts.  It's not too early for Valentine candy is it?  Didn't think so!

- On Monday I picked up my sweet mother-in-law from the airport, and then enjoyed some pho with her and my wonderful mom.

- Tuesday night, when Byron arrived home from work to find me asleep on the couch with a fever, he stood in the kitchen cooking me homemade chicken tortilla soup for dinner.  It was delicious.  [I'll post the recipe soon.]  He's THE best.

- Sweet puppy cuddles.

I know what you're thinking, and no, I don't position her for photos. . .

- Completing my first 5k of 2013 without dying.  With the combination of cold temperatures and trouble breathing due to congestion, I'm just glad I finished.

My sweet friend and co-worker, Paige, who signed me up for this run.

- fresh fruit, soft tissues, hot chocolate, and pajamas

Is it summer yet?! 

New Year's Resolutions

Nothing says "Happy 2013!  Now make a new resolution," like frosting, sprinkles, and homemade double-doozies.
[yes, I have the taste buds of an 8 year old]

January is supposed to be the month when everyone's super-motivated to work towards their New Year's Resolutions, and unfortunate for me I can't seem to find the motivation to actually make a one.  Hmmmph.  I can't decide on/think of a good one.  [Hense it's 14 days into the new year and I'm just now writing this...]

Ideas bounce around in my head like popcorn kernels in the microwave, but nothing seems to stand out and say, "Pick me!"  Last year I made the decision to run a half marathon: a capricious resolution, but a goal to work towards and something to look forward to [or dread -- same difference?].  So naturally, I've been asked, "What's up for 2013?  A marathon?" to which I reply, "There are lots of things I want to do in 2013, but running 26.2 miles is not one of them."

I want to challenge myself this year -- I love to push myself -- so instead of one resolution, I'm making a few.  Why not?!  So here we go:

1. Tithe - 10% each month.  No excuses for the amount or 'forgetting my checkbook at home.'
2. Run - 1 race per month.  12 races in a year.
3. Stop Worrying - Sounds crazy, right?  You're thinking, How's that possible? I don't know.  Is it possible? I don't know.  So what's my plan of attack for this one?  Prayer.  I need to cast my anxieties on God, ask earnestly, and trust that He's got in all in control.
4. Run 1,000 miles - Did you read that right?  Yes!  Why do I do this to myself?!  Like I said, I like a challenge.  Right now, I've run 2 miles this year. [don't judge me. or do. whatever.]  Hey, that means I only have 998 to go!

Okay, so there are my 4 goals for the year.  They don't sound super crazy, but I'm quite positive I'll be challenged in a way I haven't been before.  We'll see how it goes!  What are your resolutions?

Earning my Turkey

Every year on the fourth Thursday in November the Atlanta Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon takes place.  And every year, I wondered what exactly possessed those people to wake up early and run 13.1 miles?  The day when you eat the most delicious food and express what your thankful for, why on earth would you torture yourself with a half marathon?  

Well, this year, I was one of those crazy people! Why?!

At the Expo, there was a big sign reading 'Why I run:'
Which one's mine!?

For some bizarre reason, on January 1, 2012, I made a goal, or a New Year's resolution if you will, to run a half marathon in 2012.  I can honestly tell you that I'm not sure why I made that decision.  I'd never run a race before, and quite honestly, didn't really like to run, or run often for that matter.  It wasn't a way to reach a weight loss goal or anything of the like, but simply to push myself to do something I'd never done before -- something I thought was impossible for myself.  And whatta ya know?!  I did it!

My friend Rachel decided to start her Thanksgiving with a 13.1 mile run as well:

Excited/Nervous about the run.

Byron's such a good sport -- he always wakes up early to support me in my races.  This time, because traffic was so terrible, Rachel and I jumped out of the car and left him to park while we hustled to Turner Field.  Needless to say, I was a little surprised when I saw him as we lined up in our corrals:

I wouldn't say that the course was too difficult, but I will admit that I didn't train for the 13.1 miles as I should have.  To be honest, I just got sick of running, so I lost interest and focus on training.  My time wasn't great, but I did do it, which I'm pretty happy about.

run. run. run. run. run.

Crossing the finish line.  2:42:12 [according to my watch]

finishedddd!

I saw Byron as soon as I crossed the finish line and was completely surprised when he pointed to Brad and my Mom on the other side!  Not gonna lie, I got a little emotional.  

Surprise!!! 

happy with my husband

Go, Rachel, Go!!
This girl is inspiring.

We're still alive!

Running the half marathon was definitely an experience -- not sure I wanna do it again anytime soon, or ever for that matter.  The turkey, dressing, and [Byron's] pumpkin pie sure did taste good, though!

Unfortunately, my Thanksgiving feast-induced food coma went into full effect at my grandparents' house, so I didn't get a single picture of the delicious food or my wonderful family.  But Byron and I did manage to snap a photo of the two of us to commemorate our first Thanksgiving as a married couple:

achieved goals, good shoes, blister-free feet, a loving family, delicious food, an incredible husband . . . I have a whole lot to be thankful for this year!

24 - a birthday of sprinkles and running

If my birthday is an indication of how my 24th year will be, it's going to be incredible.  I couldn't have asked for or planned a better birthday!

On Friday, one of my students [with her mom's help] surprised me with homemade red velvet cupcakes.  And, they were covered in sprinkles, which means she was paying attention when I told them last week about what would make the perfect cupcake!

My wonderful husband planned a perfect day for me, filled with running, family and friends, and yummy food, and beginning as soon as the sun peaked over the horizon.  We ran the Flap Jack Dash; a 5k that rewarded us with pancakes, bacon, hot chocolate and coffee afterwards.  It was SO cold, but a lot of fun. Byron doesn't particularly like running, so I can't express how much it means to me that he ran a race with me on my birthday.  And surprisingly, we both won medals for our age groups! Haha, fooled them.

After relaxing for a portion of the afternoon, we met for dinner with some wonderful friends.  We headed to the bowling alley after dinner, then home to play some Family Business and eat birthday cake.

@ Goldfish

such beautiful friends.

Let the Mob Wars begin.

[Oh, and Byron built that awesome coffee table!!!]

And Cal and Ashley made me a cake!

SPRINKLES!!!!

Oh happy day!!  A great beginning to my 24th year!!

Halloween Fun

When you're a kid you look forward to Halloween all year long, right?  You impatiently await the day for candy, costumes, candy, trick or treating, candy, parties, candy, jack-o-lanterns, and candy.  Then you grow up.  Does that mean the Halloween festivities have to stop?  NO.  Why on earth would growing up mean that?!  We all know we shouldn't/can't eat the vast amounts of sugar, but that's so need for the celebrations to cease . . . they might just look a little different from when we were kids!

On Saturday I decided to run the Monster Dash 10k.  It was actually an enjoyable run.  It wasn't my best run ever, but I made felt like I finished strong.  It was definitely a reality check to tell me I need to get serious about my training.

Byron's wonderful.  Even in the cold he wake up early with me for races.

I now have my first running medal!
[Every runner was given one -- I'm not that good.]

Byron spent hours [seriously -- he stayed up until almost 5am] building a Captain America shield for the Halloween Party at his office.  The shield is intense; it flies and everything.

I had to spend Halloween night finishing up some lesson plans for my Gifted Endorsement [Boo.] but made sure to take a break and bake cookies.  Mmmm!  Let's be honest, cookies make any holiday better!

I was overjoyed to finally use my mixer for the first time!
 It doesn't matter how old you are -- sprinkles AND icing [lots of both] are always the right choice.

 Unfortunately, I didn't get to take a picture of the pumpkin we carved before it rotted.  So Byron recreated it on a cookie and made me photograph it immediately!  [It was a zombie pumpkin.]

October flew by.  I can't believe Halloween is already over.  One year we're going to have a Halloween party and dress up and decorate the house. . . go all out.  Maybe next year.

It's crazy that it's already November!  Thanksgiving is 3 weeks from today - whoa.  It's gonna be a crazy month: birthdays, election day, Thanksgiving, a 1/2 marathon, Black Friday, and more. . .

Here we go!

practically free shoes?! yes, please!

I have always loved shopping, and I shop often.  What I love most about shopping is finding the best deal I can.  One thing that most people know about me is that I never EVER pay full price for anything.  It just doesn't happen.  I shop sale ads, clearance racks, and use coupons.  Just how much money can I save?

I've been needing some new running shoes, but have been hesitant to pick any out because they're usually an expensive item, even with coupons and sales.  Byron and I shopped some over the weekend, but I just wasn't comfortable spending the money.  [Hurting feet aren't that big of a deal when you're running, right? Riiiiiiight.]  So, my frugality got the best of me, and I went home without new kicks.

Yesterday, I went shopping again.  This time with my Mom, but not for shoes.  It doesn't ever really matter what I'm shopping for though, because I always end up in either the activewear or shoe departments.  Last night, it was the shoe department.  I spent literally 45 minutes trying on running shoe after running shoe, when finally, a shoe met my fancy.  The only problem: it was in the wrong place and I couldn't find a price.  I took it to the cashier anyway.

She scanned the box . . . and the mark downs began.

60% off original price + additional 30% off + $10 coupon I got in the mail + $15 gift card = I paid $1.65 for shoes that were originally priced at $100.  Yes!!!  That is what I'm talking about.  The cashier was in awe.

God's blessed me with the money in my wallet, and my spending should be done wisely. . . focusing on the things that are most important, including tithing.  I'm somewhat ashamed to say that I never tithed regularly until about a year ago.  Since then, I've constantly been impressed with how God works in my wallet when I'm giving back to Him what's His.  After all, the money is His to begin with. . .

All silver and gold belong to me, says the Lord.

Haggai 2:8   

married in real life

Technically it was our second week as a married couple, but our first week as Mr. and Mrs. Livermore in real life.  Last Saturday we did a heck of a lotta moving: furniture, clothes, wedding gifts [THANK YOU], and more.  On Sunday we joined my brother, Brad, and some friends at the lake for some fun and fireworks.  [side note: Have a mentioned how great my brothers are and how thankful I am for them?!]  

Byron was off work on Monday for Labor Day, so we did some unpacking and relaxing before he returned to work on Tuesday.  After taking a week plus a few days for the wedding and honeymoon, Byron returned to work to find out he got a promotion!!!!!  I married a stud, what can I say!  I am so proud of him for all of his hard work.

All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads to poverty.

Proverbs 14:23  

The rest of the week, while Byron worked I walked and played with the dogs, unpacked and organized our stuff, made a trip home to have lunch with my Mom and run some errands, and did some more unpacking and organizing.

In breaks from all of the unpacking, I did manage to cook our first home-cooked meal: flatbread pizza.

Mmmmm!  Pizza is always the right choice.

On Saturday morning I ran a 10K in Eatonton.  I went into the race incredibly nervous about whether or not I would even finish [My training program for this race included: drinking a glass of wine or two every night for the past two weeks water; eating a vacationer’s diet, and only running four times total in the past 3 weeks! yikes.], so I’m proud of myself for actually finishing the race and impressed with my time!  I wanted to finish in an hour and 15 minutes, but I timed myself at 1:05:59!!!

Ready to go!

FINISHED!!!!

Byron, Bridget, and Mook woke up early to cheer for me!

We spent the rest of the weekend at the lake watching movies, playing with the dogs and enjoying the weather [nothing says summertime like boiled peanuts and a cold beer on the dock!].

Lake days make for sleepy pups.

Byron, Bridget, Mook, and I are all settling in together.  Bridget and Mook have discovered the parts of the house they like best -- Mook’s is the bathroom or under your feet in the kitchen and Bridget’s is under the bed, even though she gets stuck, or the corner cushion of the couch.  As each box disappears and items are put into place, 821 begins to feel more and more like a home.  

Bridget in 'her spot' on the couch.