55:15

So I haven't written since my injury.  I was really upset by it and took the week off.  I came back around last week and ran a couple short distances, followed up by ice packs.  :)  I accomplished a cautious 7 day work out last week in anticipation of having to take it easy this week.  In addition to my short runs (4-6 miles), I did yoga, weight lifting, and a zumba class. 

I ran the Azalea 10K Saturday and had SO MUCH FUN.  The weather was GORGEOUS.  My energy was great and the Azaleas were in full bloom.  I conquered the ridiculous hill that is Robertson Ave and my speed picked up towards the end.  In fact, I sprinted through the finish line to beat the woman in front of me..Ha!   The official times were just posted and I beat my fastest time by 5 minutes!  I ran 6.2 miles in 55 minutes and 15 seconds.  So, as you can tell, my spirits are high.

The plan this week?  Not too much.  I ran 3 miles today and I'll probably do two classes.  The Tough Mudder is Saturday and I'm trying not to think about it.  I am as prepared as I can be.  I'm just ready for it to be behind me. 

On a different note, I started a Bible study call A Woman's Heart: God's Dwelling Place.  I've been looking forward to a deeper study of God's word... craving it almost.  In the first week we are being challenged to identify where we are.  God asked Adam where he was because his sin hid him.  God is wanting to meet up with me.. craving to spend time with me.  He is asking me "Where are you?  I want to meet you."

So where am I? 
Parenting in a whirlwind of 3 small children.
Trying to be a wife that is supportive, respectful, and adoring.
Running the house smoothly as Brock travels with work.
Juggling my part-time job, PTA obligations, and the kids activities.
Challenging myself physically.
Worried about my two brothers and the life that is before them.
Craving to hear God speak to me and see Him work.

This is where I am.  Right now.  On March 26. 2012.  What will God say to me during our time together these next weeks??

my poor legs

Well now I did it.  First.. the good news.  I ran 12.38 miles yesterday!!  12 were planned.  The .38 were from my missing a turn...lol.  They were a solid 12 miles too.  I started out extremely slow and maintained just under an 11 minute mile.  I didn't want to push myself like last time.  It worked out well.  The last couple of miles were hard, but I did it and even ran up Goliath at the end!

I know I was originally planning on waiting 1 1/2 weeks to run this distance.  BUT, Adelyn is sick and Brock left today to go out of town for the week.  It was yesterday or not this week at all. I prepared properly and my confidence was great!!  I tried not to take myself too seriously by stopping for water, to take pics, etc..

mile 3.5

mile 7.5

mile 11.5

my view.. I love running this 4 mile loop... even if its 3 times!!

Now, the bad news.  This morning, since Brock is leaving and I probably won't get to go to the gym this week with my sickie, I decided to take a 5:15am Barbell Blast class.  Strictly strength training, no cardio exertion.  Well, I showed up and the instructor didn't.  The only other option: Cardio Kickbox.  Now, a normal person would have a) just lifted weights b) gone home.  But, I saw people I knew and was talked into the class.  Bad mistake.  My poor legs did not need to be running laps, kicking, jumping stairs, or doing burpees.  I am now limping around on what seems to be a hurt calf muscle in one leg and a strained knee muscle in the other.  Just peachy.

I took an ice bath yesterday after my run.  I should have taken one today as well.  OK....I'm not going to whine.  I ran over 12 miles yesterday.  In 2 hours and 15 minutes.  Which is my half marathon goal, by the way.  I feel confident that I can run the extra .8 mile in the same time.  I will have competition and adrenaline on my side.  :)

On to a different note:  My personal Goliath lately?  My relationship with Cole.  He has been arguing with me over EVERYTHING.   Going over spelling words:

Me: "Cole, how do you spell happily?"
Cole: "h-a-p-p-i-l-l-y"
"No, it's h-a-p-p-i-l-y"
"That's what I said."
"No it's not"
"Yes it is."

Argh..  Everything is a battle.  I'm starting to not look forward to homework time, meal time, bed time.. you name it.  Today I prayed.  For my attitude.  For God to show me His point of view.  To understand Cole and what is going through his head.  I want to be patient.  I want to be sweet.  I don't want to be grumpy with him.  Lord, show me Cole through Your eyes.  Give me Your patience and kindness.  I am not capable of being the mom I want to be without You.


And just to show you the crazy Cole I know and love.  Here is a great picture I found on my phone the other day.  I didn't know he took one of me in my ice bath.  Don't worry, it's rated G.  LOL

looks like fun