Growing up in a world of adventure.
I have to admit, I was a little skeptical and had to be talked into signing up for the Seattle Brunch Run this past weekend. It’s been a while since I’ve participated in a formal running event, and the price tag had me hesitant. The organizers, Seattle Magazine, claimed there would be inclusive brunch bites from more than 15 local restaurants along with a boozy brunch garden featuring mimosas, bloody marys, and beer.
Photo Courtesy of Seattle Brunch Run/Seattle Magazine
Georgia and I have been busy testing the Deuter Kid Comfort 3 Carrier this past summer and into fall. We’ve loved the opportunity to add some experience with another hiking style carrier to our repertoire. This review is intended to help more families make informed decisions about the product they ultimately decide to purchase. If possible, we always advise to visit an outdoor store, such as REI, to try on the carriers yourself. When you see them in person, you are better able to see each carrier’s features. You can also feel the pack on your very own shoulders, back, and hips. However, hopefully our review will give you some things to think about as you compare and make your decision.
Since recommending Kamik Boots for the rain and winter in our recent guide on dressing kids for a rainy and cold day outdoors, I wanted to go more in depth and describe exactly what we love! We purchased the Kamik SnowKey7 Winter boots as a Christmas gift for Bergen this past year, and after almost 2 months of adventuring and playing outdoors in the cold and rain, we’ve been quite pleased. In addition to our regular outdoor activity as a family, Bergen spends up to 5 hours outdoors a few mornings a week at Forest School. Yes, that’s forest school in Seattle with no indoor space, so we needed a boot that would keep his feet dry, warm, and comfortable.
The other day as Bergen (4 years), Georgia (10 months), and I walked/strolled/scootered/ran to school, Bergen started to hem and haw about walking up a steep hill.
“Yes, it’s a little bit hard Bergen, but we can still do it!”
Not convinced, he said, “But maybe we could just drive our car. Then it would be easier.”
Surprised as I thought we’d gone over this, I asked him, “Why do we walk to school instead of drive our car?”
He was at a loss. Or at least his answer of, “because we don’t want to be late…” didn’t exactly make sense.
Bergen’s balance bike now has some competition when it comes to getting out and about. For his 4th birthday, he received the micro mini scooter, and after just a day or so of learning, he’s been zipping through the neighborhood and around our local parks. I believe his balance biking skills carried over to make the transition to scootering easy, but I also attribute his success to the design and engineering of the scooter from Micro Kickboard.
We’re loving this new form of mobility. Now he’ll often ride his scooter when we take our daily walks, which allows Slaed and I to actually carry on a conversation instead of constantly “encouraging” him to keep up. We’ve also started to run/walk/scooter to school instead of driving the mile or so distance making for a much more active and productive start to our mornings!
Thule. You know, that Swedish company that makes those racks for your car? From skis to bikes to cargo boxes, they take transporting gear seriously, so we are super excited to get to be a part of their latest project, “Active with Kids“! Included in this line are carriers, bike seats, bike trailers, and today’s review: The Thule Urban Glide Stroller.
If you are a regular reader of the blog, you probably know that we are quite active. We are outdoors everyday, and long walks are a part of our daily routine. Thule contacted us just when Georgia (6 months) was ready to to transition from the carseat+bar system in the stroller to actually sitting in the seat of the stroller, and since it’s arrival, we’ve put the Urban Glide through the ringer!
The stroller has traveled with us on the rough Seattle city sidewalks, down gravel trails of parks, and even along the forested paths of the Washington Park Arboretum. In addition, we’ve tested the suspension down short flights of stairs, and through it all, our little adventurer has remained content in her cushy ride.
My run had barely started, and I was already feeling defeated.
On my last trail run after just a mile or so climbing, my mind was out of the game. It wasn’t that my body couldn’t continue. That would have made more sense. My head was the one telling me to stop running, and just hike for a while. I started making excuses. Not enough sleep. I must not have properly fueled even though I’d enjoyed 2 big pieces of toast, an egg, orange juice, and coffee before heading out. Maybe that beer after the soccer game the day before was too much.
I just wasn’t that into it.
As we all know, the New Year brings new goals, new ideas, new adventures, new endeavors, and even new challenges, and of course changes. One change, I’ve fully embraced this January is NOT taking a break from running.
In the past, my running routine has gone on hiatus during the winter months. A whole lot of excuses come to mind:
I’m ignoring those excuses. Instead I’m relying on (and being encouraged by) the positives; those lovely benefits of putting one foot in front of the other and just going:
Specifically, I’m all signed up and committed to the Squak Mountain Trail Run. Yes, one of my biggest motivators in addition to the above benefits is having a race or run on the calendar. It’s in writing, it’s paid for, I can’t quit.
The big event takes place in Issaquah, Washington (just a short 30 minute or so drive from Seattle) and has me running the obvious 13.1 miles on trail, but also includes a challenging 3,650 feet of elevation gain!
Come join the conversation! You can keep up to date with each and every post by subscribing to the blog via email. We’d also love to have you join us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter! If you enjoyed this post, please “like it”, “tweet it” or “pin it”!
More on running:
Happy New Year!
A fresh new year definitely has me thinking of things I want to accomplish in 2014, but I also can’t help but think about the goals, aspirations and new ideas that began around this time a year ago. One of the goals we made as a family was to visit more of our Washington State Parks.
We kicked the year off and set the goal in motion with the purchase of the Discover Pass. In fact, it was one of my Christmas gifts to my husband, Slaed, but a state park pass also makes a great new year’s gift for yourself or someone you love. So many goals come to mind that it would help with:
Our Discover Pass brought us to places all across our Puget Sound region in 2013:
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To be honest, we were surprised to learn we only visited a total of 10 state park units, but we did visit several of the parks more than once with Moran being the most frequented. And besides, 10 (+) is a whole lot more than years past.
A side effect of our interest and enthusiasm for our parks is that we now seek out state parks in our travels outside of Washington. Our trips to California, Wisconsin, South Carolina this year all included visits to at least one state park gem.
With a brand-spanking-new pass for 2014 ready and waiting, we’re anxious to see what the year will bring in terms of state park adventures. Looking back on the year, we really didn’t venture past the Cascades to any of the parks in Central and Eastern Washington. Seems to me that a new goal may be taking shape!
Come join the conversation! You can keep up to date with each and every post by subscribing to the blog via email. We’d also love to have you join us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter! If you enjoyed this post, please “like it”, “tweet it” or “pin it”!
The above series of “if’s” describe my situation a few months ago. To tell you the truth, I hadn’t run, not even a couple of miles, since my half marathon in late November. It took being laid up due to a tooth extraction to motivate me to sign up for a future race. I suppose even just a day or so of being “immobilized” was all the push I needed.
As a newbie to trail running, I did my best to prepare for the half marathon run, running the easier arboretum trails near our house during the week, and choosing tougher, hillier trails for my long run on the weekends.
When I lined up at the start on Sunday, I was nervous. At the same time though, I was confident. Confident because I knew what to expect. The previous weekend, I scoped out the course, so the challenging, never-ending hills with 2700 feet of elevation were no surprise to me.
With plenty of time to think as I traveled through the great trees and bright greens, I came to a few realizations:
Mile 1 & 2: Trail Runners walk. I read about this previously, but I had to see it for myself to fully believe. At times, it’s just more efficient and faster to hike up a tough hill rather than run.
Mile 3 & 4: It’s important to train for the race/run conditions. Knowing the course would be uphill for nearly half of the run, I focused on hills a lot during my training. I also feel like pushing the jogging stroller during training was a huge boost for my strength. Without the extra weight of the stroller to push, I feel so much more open and free making the hills feel less daunting.
Mile 5 & 6: Dress for the part: 20 degrees warmer than air temperature. Just a few days before the big half marathon, my husband Slaed picked up this piece of advice from a radio commercial of all places. With temperatures in the low 60’s, I chose running shorts and a tank top. Sure it was chilly waiting around for the run to start, but I was almost immediately comfortable while others ended up having to tie jackets around their waist.
Mile 7 & 8: Run with water. Before this half marathon training, I had never really run with water. If I run with the stroller, sometimes I stash some since it’s easy to carry, but otherwise, I would just plan a route with water fountains. On road race days, I knew aid stations would be there for me regularly, so I never had to worry. Trail running is a different story. There are no water fountains on the trails. With only 2 aid stations throughout the course, I prepared by toting water via a handheld carrier.
Mile 9 & 10: Downhill running is taxing. Light, shorter steps are best. Sure, uphill climbs can be downright torturous, but after awhile the downhill wears me down. Breathing is easier, but I feel like my mind has to be engaged much more to keep aware of roots, rocks, and other obstacles on the trail and keep my speed in check. In my training, I found that if I went down hills too fast, the pounding with each step traveled all the way up to my head, neck and shoulders leaving me with a headache for the rest of my run. During the half marathon run, I tried my best to stay light on my feet with shorter, quicker steps. Tougher to do as people start passing me by, but better for the body in the end.
Mile 11, 12 & 13.1: Trail Running takes a lot longer than road running, but what a thrill to finish! I knew trail running would be harder than road running, but I didn’t realize how much more time (conditions pending) it takes to run a mile on the trail compared to a mile on the road. I’m not entirely sure of my finish time, but I think I came in at about 2 hours and 45 minutes, compared to just over 2 hours for my road race last November. The scenery of the trail run, time spend outdoors surrounded by nature away from the cars and busyness, and the feeling of accomplishment made that extra 45 minutes truly worth the effort.
Are you a trail runner? What do you love about it? Thinking of giving trail running a try? What’s motivating you?
Come join the conversation! We’d love to have you join us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter! You can also keep up to date with each and every post by subscribing to the blog via email.
My amazing support team!
Another great weekend. Another great state park. Another mission to fit in a trail run for my upcoming half marathon.
We found ourselves with some errands to run in the North part of the city, and knowing I had to somehow work a run into the day, I thought of Saint Edward State Park. Saint Edwards is in Kenmore, a smaller town just Northeast of Seattle. I’d visited the park once or twice, but not for any huge length of time.
I knew there was a short trail hike down to Lake Washington. It turns out though that this little gem boasts quite a few miles of trails. As a bonus of sorts, since it’s just in Kenmore as opposed to places in the mountains or foothills, the level of difficultly is not that high. Don’t get me wrong, there are still some challenging, steep hills, especially the South Ridge and Grotto Trails, but also plenty of flat terrain to just cruise and enjoy the scenery.
This time, instead of joining me on the trail for a hike of their own, Slaed and Bergen stuck to level ground and explored the playground. I thought the playground might have kept them busy for a half hour or so. To my surprise, as I made my way back from about 6 miles of winding up and down the hills and along the water, I found the father and son duo exactly where I’d left them. Not even a mini-hike down to the throw rocks into the lake for these two. Bergen was too occupied with the enormous play structure, sandbox, and oh, dragging large tree branches around the lawn.
Slaed was quite impressed with the space as well with it’s emphasis on art, and special features making it easy to enjoy the morning without all the hassle of chasing Bergen too much. It didn’t take him long to start to notice little touches in all the nooks and crannies. The toddler section, with the sandbox and fun tunnels to crawl through, is fully enclosed, and even when Bergen got up to the higher structures made for bigger kids, he was protected by railings. The playground is also positioned away from the parking lot creating lots of good, safe space to run around beyond the borders.
Slaed was such a fan of the park that he proposed we go for a second weekend in a row. Again, the boys stuck to the playground and it’s immediate surrounding areas and stayed busy, while I logged an 8 mile trail run by looping (roughly) around the perimeter of the park twice.
Info to Know:
Come join the conversation! We’d love to have you join us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter!
More Washington State Parks:
Cape Disappointment State Park (Ilawao, WA)
Wallace Falls State Park (Goldbar, WA)
Fort Worden State Park (Port Townsend, WA)
Peshastin Pinnacles State Park (Peshastin, WA)
Moran State Park (Orcas Island, WA) Obstruction Pass State Park (Orcas Island, WA)
Olallie State Park (North Bend, WA)
Expectations can really play a powerful role in your end feelings and immediate impressions of an outing or adventure.
Some background: After running the Seattle half marathon last November, I got into a running rut, which really means for whatever reason after the big event, I stopped running. Sure I walked, chased after Bergen, went on an occasional hike, but I wasn’t taking any time to really exert myself in a run even though it takes little to no planning at all.
A couple of months ago, I changed that by setting a goal and signing up for a race. Instead of the usual road race, I opted for something new, something I’ve thought about doing in the past, but never worked hard enough to achieve. I decided to give trail running a try, and what better way get started than to commit yourself to a half marathon trail run?
I’ve diligently (mostly) followed my usual half marathon training plan, except with the change of trying to add more trails than sidewalks, which is tricky being a city dweller, but not so tricky considering we live in Seattle with it’s multitude of parks and easy accessibility to mountains. I run on the trails in the arboretum and Seward Park, but up until last weekend, I hadn’t attempted, in my mind, a true trail run.
In order to make this first run happen, I needed to make it a family affair. I would run, and Slaed would hike with Bergen in the backpack carrier. I scoured my hiking books for the perfect spot. It needed to be within 30-45 minutes driving distance, new to us, good for kids, and EASY.
I found the Twin Falls trail in Olallie State Park to fit all of our requirements.
Our expectations of what the hike and run would be like may have been different from the reality, but we’re so happy to have discovered this spot for ourselves. I just had to change up my strategy a bit. I took some walk breaks, especially after some tough switchbacks, and also took some breaks just to enjoy the scenery instead of trying to plow through without stopping. I’m new at this, maybe that’s what your supposed to do?
Come join the conversation! We’d love to have you join us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter!
More great Washington State Parks:
This post is part of Photo Friday at DeliciousBaby.com.
For the first time in 5 years, we are NOT traveling for Thanksgiving. With our Kauai trip coming up next week, and a trip to California for Christmas, and even more trips planned for 2013, adding a Thanksgiving trip would just be too much for our little family.
So instead of taking on the challenges of the airports and roadways, I’m relying on my own two feet, and running another half marathon: The Seattle Half Marathon on November 25th. This will be my fourth half marathon, so I’m feeling good about the race, however I’m nervous because this will be the latest I’ve ever planned to run. I decided to sign up just 6 weeks out instead of my usual 12 (or more) weeks. I ran the Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon in late June, and have continued to walk, run, hike, and even bike throughout the summer and fall, but until a couple of weeks ago, I hadn’t stuck to a strict plan.
After running 8 miles last Sunday, and yesterday as my long runs for the week, I’m more confident though, and looking forward to the challenge of 13.1!
I also feel lucky to be training in such a beautiful fall environment. I end up doing many of my long runs along Lake Washington Boulevard because of it’s proximity to my house. Plus, it’s an easy, flat trail with plenty of other runners and cyclists to keep me company and motivate me. No interruptions (i.e. stoplights or big, busy intersections to cross) either.
A glimpse at what I’ve enjoyed the last few weeks:
Lake Washington with Mount Rainier in the distance.
I also feel lucky because I have this great support team:
All three of these guys help me out with my training.
Do you have a race coming up?
How do you typically celebrate Thanksgiving?
Have you “liked” our facebook page? You’ll find more photos there, and you can keep track of ALL our adventures!
We’ve had a wonderfully adventurous year thanks to some high-quality gear. Here are a few of the items that have made travel and adventure easier, enhanced our experiences, and made new things possible!
1. The Go Crib by Guava Family
The “Go-crib” is extremely portable, light-weight, and easy to assemble. The crib is equipped with a manual pump, and along with the thin fold-up mattress, it is stored in it’s own backpack. It’s been essential for sleep at all of our usual travel destinations, and really comes in handy for camping trips.
*While the Go Crib is no longer available, the company (Guava Family) has designed a new product called the Lotus Travel Crib. Learn more about the Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib in our set-up post!
A recent addition to our adventure gear line-up, the Yepp Mini allows us to take Bergen on bike rides! He has a blast riding around with his Dad, and it really opens up the possibilities for outings around the city. According to Yepp, babies can start using the seat when they are 9-months old and sitting up independently. It accommodates kids up to 33 pounds or about 3 years old.
We purchased the Baby Jogger Summit XC before Bergen was born, and really only expected to use it on trails, and of course for jogging. Boy did we underestimate how difficult it is to navigate the steep hills of our neighborhood, and our worn out city sidewalks. When we tried to take Bergen out for a walk in the “city mini” (also by Baby Jogger), we turned right back around, and grabbed the Summit. We’re thankful for the handbrake, the sunshade that provides plenty of cover, it’s durability, option for fixed or unfixed front wheel, easy fold-up, and it’s beautiful black color.
4. Rugged Idea Waterproof Blanket
This blanket doesn’t just come in handy, it’s a necessity in Seattle. Bergen is kept warm, cozy, and dry, and we feel great supporting a local company! After being out and about for a walk in the rain, it’s amazing how fast this blanket dries. Each corner of the blanket has 2 Velcro straps for easy stroller attachment.
5. Ergobaby Performance Carrier
Our ergo goes everywhere with us from the airport, to the zoo, to the mall, or to a state park for hike. We chose the performance line because it breathes well, dries quickly, and is made for those who are a bit more active. I started using the carrier with the infant insert when Bergen was about 2 weeks old. Now you’ll most often find him in the back carry position enjoying the view.
What helps you and your family get out and about for adventures?
Come along with us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter!
Today on this International Day of Peace, I wanted to honor our neighbors to the North, one the of the most peaceful nations in the world: Canada.
2 years ago, right around this time, Slaed and I traveled to Harrison Hot Springs located in British Columbia about 2 hours East of Vancouver, and 3 hours North of Seattle. This was no ordinary road trip though as we drove separately. I drove the car. Slaed rode his bike.
Hanging with the goats at a pit stop: Birch Wood Dairy in Abbotsford, BC.
Slaed and his biking buddies traveled from Seattle’s Magnuson Park to Bellingham, Washington. After a good night’s rest in Bellingham and some refueling, they were back on the road, and cycled their way to Harrison Hot Springs. The cyclists were rewarded with spectacular views of Harrison Lake and the Coast Mountains. More than that though, I think they were looking forward to unwinding after 2 days of all-day riding by soaking in the therapeutic waters of the hot springs. After such a feat, they certainly deserved it!
Harrison Lake
I like to ride my bike a few miles here and there, but I’m certainly not a cyclist. Watching Slaed’s crew was motivating though, and I was feeling quite lazy rolling up in my car while they conquered mile after mile. Lucky for me, the Terry Fox run was happening that weekend, so I got in on the action, and ran my first 10 K!
Norman joined in the fun too!
I’m all for a plan. I like to know what to expect, and what to look forward to on a journey. But sometimes, the best travel memories happen when you’re not planning at all. I loved picturing all of the runners across Canada, from our small gathering of about 15 runners to thousands in places like Toronto, all paying tribute to such an inspiration.
Speaking of inspiration, hop over to RWeThereYetMom?, and find out what’s happening with other traveling families around the world.
Continue following our adventures…
While training for a half marathon this past spring and early summer, I realized that if I wanted to reach my goal of finishing around the 2 hour mark, I’d need to keep up with my training during our travels. This meant thinking ahead, and not always going out for a run at my ideal time. In the end though, I scored some (well-deserved?) alone time leaving me feeling refreshed and accomplished, and I also set a personal record for my half marathon time!
Here’s what helped me get going away from home:
Celebrating after a 2:05 finish!
What helps you keep up with your training while traveling? Share your tips!
Come along with us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter!
After a night in beautiful Evergreen, Colorado over Memorial Day weekend, as we began to make our way back to the Denver area, we came up on the well-known Red Rocks, and amphitheater. This was much to my surprise as I wasn’t expecting we would get to see this landmark, but little did I know, I would be even more surprised as we decided to turn in and venture up to the venue. Slaed being a Colorado native (growing up near Golden) has been to numerous concerts at the Red Rocks. For me, it was a travel wish list item. Curious to see what we’d find since the road was open, we crept our way to the top, popped Bergen out of his car seat and into the Bjorn, and walked to the entrance. They actually let us in!
Later that evening there would be a concert, but for now we were free to explore. Once we traveled the walkway to the stage and seating, we discovered dozens of people. Some were like us: snapping photos of the view and beautiful rocks. (Not only can you see the obvious (red rocks), you can also see the Denver skyline.)
The others were actually using the amphitheater as their health club/gym! Serious runners, stairclimbers, and fitness junkies were using the steps for their workout. I was so impressed.
Besides admiring the exercisers, we were also able to walk around inside where there is information and history about the venue along with a gift shop, of course. Slaed’s favorite part though was the huge listing of each and every concert held at the Red Rocks complete with dates. He couldn’t help but go through and list off all that he’d attended. It was quite a list. He should be proud, and it brought back a lot of fun memories and stories for him to share.
I hope my next visit to the Red Rocks is for a concert, but I also wouldn’t mind getting to explore the amphitheater more as a park too. Maybe I’ll even act like a native and bring my running shoes next time.
Info to Know:
A quick rundown & plan for week for as I am already late in posting both!
Goal is in bold. What I actually accomplished is below the goal.
Monday: Stretch & Strengthen: Plan to do the strength routine from “another mother runner“, then the yoga pose sequences from “My Yoga Life“. I’m hoping if I keep it simple, then I’ll actually do what I planned!
Did the strength routine & the yoga poses! Both are just the thing for this “stretch & strengthen” day. The strength routine (just 6 exercises) provides exercises that can easily be done in your home, but they are super challenging. One of the 6 is the plank pose, which you are encouraged to increase by 5 seconds each time. Tough stuff.
Tuesday: 3.5 mile run: Plan to run 3. 5 miles with Bergen (and hopefully Norman) mid-morning. Will better align the run with nap time.
Ran 3.5 miles with B & Norm. Not a peep from Bergen. He was much happier today, and took a nice snooze as Norman and I ran our “Madison Park” loop.
Wednesday: 2 mile run or cross-training: What else? Total Strength cardio class at the Y.
Another great cardio/strength class at the Y.
Thursday: 3.5 mile run: Plan to run 3.5 with early-morning run with B & again, hopefully Norman. Strength routine in the afternoon.
Ran 3. 5 in the rain with just Norman while B took a nap & hung out with Dad. He was NOT happy even with his cute doggie rain jacket. Guess I need to think twice before inviting him to come along in the rain again. I was practically dragging him home.
Friday: Rest!
Plenty of rest as I packed and prepared for Portland.
Saturday: 40 minute cross training: We are off to Portland for a quick trip via train, and I expect to do lots of walking around the city as we will be car-less.
Definitely more than 40 minutes of walking as we packed as much as we could into a quick Portland weekend. We walked from Downtown to the Pearl, to the Alphabet District, and then up to Washington Park. Then back downtown.
75 degree temperatures & Blue Skies
Sunday: 5 mile run: 5 mile run! Can’t wait! Will do this after we return from Portland.
With Slaed’s encouragement, I actually did an early morning run along the Waterfront Park/Esplanade. This turned out to be a great decision because the train left the station 45 minutes later than schedule, and we were delayed due to bridge difficulties along the way. This was the first time in a long time that I actually ran by myself. No Bergen. No Norman. Just me and the trail.
Plan for Week 4!
Monday: Stretch & Strength: Did the strength routine from “another mother runner“, then the yoga pose sequences from “My Yoga Life“.
Tuesday:3.5 mile run: Ran 3.5 with Norman. He seems to be back in his running shape & it wasn’t raining, so he was happy!
Wednesday: 2 mile run or cross-training: Plan to do the Cardio Strength class at the Y.
Thursday: 3.5 mile run +strength: Plan to do an afternoon run. This will be a busy day, so I’ll need to schedule carefully to make sure I fit it in. I also want to map out a new route as I’ve down the same 3.5 mile run 3 times in a row!
Friday: Rest: Hurray!
Saturday: 40 minute cross: Family walk around the neighborhood.
Sunday: 5 mile run: Running the Top Pot Doughnut Dash 5K! Here’s where I’m torn. After the race, should I continue on, and complete my 5 miles, or should I just stop and bask in my 5 K glory, and enjoy the post-race doughnuts provided by top pot? Tell me what I should do!
Your thoughts:
5 miles vs. 5K?
What has been your experience with the plank challenge? I want to hear about it!
It’s week 3* of my half marathon adventure, and the miles are increasing. The long run is 5 miles this week, which I am ready to do. I’m repeating my goal from last week with strength training. I will do it after my run on Thursday! It seems that variety is working for me, so I”ll also map out a different 3.5 mile run for Tuesday & Thursday.
If you read the rundown from yesterday, then you heard about poor Norman, and his leg/foot. I think I did a number on him as he’s not completely healed, and still a little unsure of himself as he frolics around in the backyard. I feel horrible.
Norman's war wound.
Norman, the trooper
Plan for Week 3:
Monday: Stretch & Strengthen: Plan to do the strength routine from “another mother runner“, then the yoga pose sequences from “My Yoga Life“. I’m hoping if I keep it simple, then I’ll actually do what I planned!
Tuesday: 3.5 mile run: Plan to run 3. 5 miles with Bergen (and hopefully Norman) mid-morning. Will better align the run with nap time.
Wednesday: 2 mile run or cross-training: What else? Total Strength cardio class at the Y.
Thursday: 3.5 mile run: Plan to run 3.5 with early-morning run with B & again, hopefully Norman. Strength routine in the afternoon.
Friday: Rest!
Saturday: 40 minute cross training: We are off to Portland for a quick trip via train, and I expect to do lots of walking around the city as we will be car-less.
Sunday: 5 mile run: 5 mile run! Can’t wait! Will do this after we return from Portland.
Look for a rundown on Sunday.
What do you do for strength training as a runner? Leave a comment below.
Sending out my goals to the world again proved to be just as motivating for week 2. Part of it is also, of course, just making a plan in general. With a little person around to take care of, it’s important for me have goals for the day, otherwise I’ll get totally distracted, and wrapped up with feeding, playing, cleaning up, and on and on. Another realization I came to this week is how helpful it is to share my training goals with Slaed. Just another person to keep me honest, and support me, and oh, take care of Bergen while Norman and I run!
The goal is in bold. What I actually accomplished is below.
Monday: Stretch & Strengthen: Plan to do a cardio strength class at the Y, and then lots of stretching when I get home. I think the sequence found here will be perfect. It’s from the blog, “my yoga life“. Hal Higdon has some great stuff on stretching here too.
Cardio Strength class at the Y. Similar to my Wednesday class with a little more cardio than strength. This may not be the best class for my stretch and strengthen day. It’s technically supposed to be more of a rest day because of the long run on Sunday, so I’m thinking it’s a bit too much cardio. I did manage to do the stretching sequence, but it wasn’t right after class when it would have been most beneficial. The poses complement the running well, and seem to stretch exactly the right muscles. I need to spend more time in them though.
Tuesday: 3 mile run: Plan to do a DIFFERENT (than last week) 3 mile run with B & Norman mid-morning.
Ran 3 mile with B & Norman. As I checked out new routes using “map my run”, I mapped out a loop run with a mile and a half or so being through our beautiful Arboretum. It was beautiful indeed, however Bergen didn’t seem to agree as he fussed and cried for 2 out of the 3 miles, even with a break for eating. He’s not exactly liking his stroller these days.
B may have been fussy, but at least we got to enjoy everything in bloom at the arboretum.
Wednesday: 2 mile run or cross-training: Plan to do my favorite cardio class at the Y.
Total Strength class at the Y was once again great fun. Our instructor mixed it up for us, and brought out steps, so we stepped away to her upbeat music selections. I loved the steps because it added a new challenge, and I also felt like I was in one of those aerobic classes from the 80’s. Some nice daydreaming…
Thursday: 3 mile run + strength: Plan to do an early morning run with B & Norman AND this easy strength training routine thanks to “another mother runner“.
3 miles with Bergen and Norman (same arboretum loop as Tuesday). This time B did not fuss nearly as much as Tuesday. I think I managed to time the run to coincide with nap time: much better. However, he’s still not completely content in the stroller. I think he’d rather be out exploring.
I don’t know what it is…didn’t do strength training AGAIN. I kept thinking about it, but just didn’t get around to it. I need to get the exercise ball out from the basement, and the hand weights out of the closet. Maybe seeing the equipment will get me going.
Friday: REST!
A whole lot of resting was going on at our house. I came down with a cold and was not up for anything.
Saturday: 30 minute cross: Plan to do an early morning walk around the neighborhood with the whole family. We will probably walk for at least an hour though.
2 different 30-minute walks with the family both the Bergen in the ergo. Does that count as strength training?
Sunday: 4 mile run: Plan to run with Norman. I’ve mapped out a pretty hilly route, but I’m excited for the challenge.
Ran 4 miles with Norman. The uphill was tough, but it felt so good to get to the top. Part of the run was along Lake Washington, and since it was such a beautiful day, lots of other runners and cyclists were out. Fun to watch, and feel the comradery. I’m a little worried about Norman though. As we were running past a dog who was fenced in his yard, Norman darted in front of me, and I stepped (or ran) on his poor back foot. He limped for a little bit and didn’t want to put weight on it, but then was able to walk it off. This was just in the first mile. He was able to pull through, and we obviously finished the run, but it seems like it’s bothering him a little bit tonight. I’m hoping I wasn’t too hard on my favorite running partner.
10 weeks to go! Look for my week 3 training plan tomorrow. You can keep track of all of our running adventures here.
Jogging Stroller tips (to make it more fun for baby)? Please share!
It’s week 2* of my Seattle Rock n’Roll Half Marathon training, and the weather is definitely on my side; at least temperature-wise. Highs in the upper 50’s, lower 60’s, and 68 today equals perfect running temperatures. Training this week is exactly the same as last week. However, I want to make sure that I am really doing my strength training as I only really did this on Wednesday last week. I also want to map out and calculate some other routes to add some variety into the 3 mile runs.
Plan for week 2:
Monday: Stretch & Strengthen: Plan to do a cardio strength class at the Y, and then lots of stretching when I get home. I think the sequence found here will be perfect. It’s from the blog, “my yoga life“. Hal Higdon has some great stuff on stretching here too.
Tuesday: 3 mile run: Plan to do a DIFFERENT (than last week) 3 mile run with B & Norman mid-morning.
Wednesday: 2 mile run or cross-training: Plan to do my favorite cardio class at the Y.
Thursday: 3 mile run + strength: Plan to do an early morning run with B & Norman AND this easy strength training routine thanks to “another mother runner“.
Friday: REST!
Saturday: 30 minute cross: Plan to do an early morning walk around the neighborhood with the whole family. We will probably walk for at least an hour though.
Sunday: 4 mile run: Plan to run with Norman. I’ve mapped out a pretty hilly route, but I’m excited for the challenge.
Runners out there: What are your favorite and most effective stretching and strength training routines?
off we go!
Like last week, I’ll have a “rundown” on Sunday.
Last week, I shared my training plan for week 1 of my preparation for the Seattle Rock n’ Roll Half Marathon. I’m excited to share my “rundown” with you. I must say, blogging my training plan proved to be hugely motivating. Whenever any thoughts of veering away from my goals came to mind, I was able to quickly refocus because I knew I had to stay true to the plan. I also knew that any excuse I came up with would seem silly.
Goal is in bold. What I actually accomplished is below.
Tuesday: 3 mile run: I ran with Norman.
Ran 3 miles with Norman! A fairly straight forward out and back run. Pretty flat with just one small hill.
Wednesday: 2 mile run or cross training: Plan to do a cardio class tonight at the Y.
“Total Strength” class at the Y. It’s a mix of cardio and strength training. This class makes me so happy. I love the mix of people (men, women, young, old(er), etc.) who come, the music puts a smile on my face, and the instructor is so upbeat and positive.
Thursday: 3 mile run +strength: Plan to do an early morning run with B & Norman + push-ups & hand weight exercises.
Ran 3 miles with B & Norman! Same run as Tuesday.
Friday: Rest!: Perfect timing as we’ll be traveling to the coast for razor clamming.
Did lots of resting in the car. We had such a fun day of traveling to the coast. I’ll share more of our adventures later this week.
Saturday: 30 minute cross-training: It will be more than 30 minutes, but my cross training will be clam digging on the beach! I’ve heard using those “clam guns” is hard work.
Digging clams is hard work. It’s also discouraging. We caught very few clams…a combination of bad timing, and the clams not “showing” themselves. Lots of beach walking though!
Family of clammers
Sunday: 4 mile run: Plan do any early morning trail run with Norman around Cape Disappointment.
Ran {at least} 4 miles with Norman on the beach at Cape Disappointment State Park! It felt great to take a break from “camp life” to run along side the ocean. Beautiful views of the mountains too, and two lighthouses.
One of the two...
Norm's view
11 weeks to go. I’m feeling great. Look for my week 2 training plan tomorrow!
my running buddies
With the help of Hal Higdon, and his training program, I officially begin training for the Seattle Rock n’ Roll Half Marathon this week. I ran the Seattle Half Marathon in November of 2010 with his help, and I’m hoping I can be just as successful this time. The Rock n’ Roll 1/2 should be tons of fun with live, local bands all along the course, lots of beautiful Seattle views, and hopefully some familiar faces cheering me on! This will be my 3rd half marathon; first post-baby. I’m really excited about working toward this goal although I know it will be quite different with B around! The program allows time to build up miles, time for rest, and time for cross and strength training; all important components for a successful race. I plan to keep track of and document a lot of my training here on the blog in hopes that I will stay motivated and honest with my goals.
This week’s Training Plan:
Tuesday: 3 mile run: I ran with Norman (done!)
Wednesday: 2 mile run or cross training: Plan to do a cardio class tonight at the Y.
Thursday: 3 mile run +strength: Plan to do an early morning run with B & Norman + push-ups & hand weight exercises.
Friday: Rest!: Perfect timing as we’ll be traveling to the coast for razor clamming.
Saturday: 30 minute cross-training: It will be more than 30 minutes, but my cross training will be clam digging on the beach! I’ve heard using those “clam guns” is hard work.
Sunday: 4 mile run: Plan do any early morning trail run with Norman around Cape Disappointment.
Look for a “rundown” of this week’s goals on Sunday!
