What A Year!

Whew! 


What a year, huh? 


So many things have happened in my life this past year, so many accomplishments, relevations, and enlightenments. I have turned into an athlete, achieved two weight loss goals in the same day, started a blog, learned to start liking myself, gained and strengthened friendships, and learned to be comfortable and maintain my new healthy lifestyle. Who knew just two short years ago that I would make and keep these changes?


2012 promises to be an even better year. I have already signed up for 2 out of 3 of the half marathons I plan on running, and hope to bring my race total (including 5k's and 10k's) to 15. I also hope to be a better person by being a better friend, sibling, and daughter.


I COULD NOT HAVE ACHIEVED ANY OF MY ACCOMPLISHMENTS WITHOUT THE SUPPORTERS IN MY CORNER! YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE, AND Y'ALL ROCK! I CAN'T tell you enough how much I appreciate EVERYTHING you've EVER taught me or helped me get through. I'm deeply indebted!


So to keep this relatively short, I thank you all for reading my blog, for keeping me inspired, and for believing in me!


CHEERS TO 2012!


Zumbarunner...whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Back In It

I worked out for the first time in two weeks...gonna be sore tomorrow!

Zumbarunner...whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

A Zumbarunner Christmas

Merry Christmas everyone!

Zumbarunner...whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Christmas Part 2

Today is Christmas Part 2.


It's been a GREAT couple days with the folks for my early Christmas. This evening, after eating WAAAAAAAAAAY TOOOOOO MUCH FOOD at Red Lobster, we went to Minden to see the lights, then back to Kearney to see the lights as well. Let me tell ya, there's some AMAZING light displays around town.


I'm really hoping I can get some kind of a workout in tomorrow...I've got to burn off at least 2 of the 4 pounds I gained while eating Red Lobster today.


Zumbarunner...whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Christmas Part 1

Hi y'all. I'm just winding down from a great first day of Christmas Part 1 with the folks. They came down to Kearney early, we had lunch, did a bit of shopping, then drove to Gothenburg to see the cool Christmas exhibit at the KOA Campground. Afterwards, dinner at Walker's steakhouse then on back home. Whew! Exhausted, ate WAAAAAAAY too much, but well worth the trip!


This is technically my Christmas because I have to work the whole Christmas weekend (normal), but I'm calling it Christmas part 1 because I want to! Hopefully I'll be able to do something special besides working, but oh well...time to snooze!


Zumbarunner...whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Long day

Long day full of travel, junk food and no exercise. TOMORROW WILL BE BETTER!

Zumbarunner...whether shaking it or running it, I will cross the finish line!

Zumbarunner Returns...Again

Wow...it's been a while since I've been on here, huh? Even the blogspot format has changed...Hmm, I'm going to have to get used to this. It's my own fault though. Oh well, onward and forward.


So Zumbarunner returns...again.


First, I apologize for not giving you any witty insights to my life as of late, but frankly, there hasn't been enough hours in the day. Ok, that's an excuse, but a good one. I've either been up at the butt crack of dawn killing myself off at boot camp twice a week followed by extreme Zumba then working the rest of the day,  doing 3 hour workouts on my OFF days from boot camp, traveling on my "weekends" or working extra hard at my job. All the stress consequently made me sick for the first time in two years, and I had to rest from exercise for a week. Who knew trying to stay healthy and active would make a person sick? I guess I just wore myself out, and I'm now trying to get back into the groove, but only at 90% back to good.


So boot camp is over, extreme Zumba is over, and it's the week before Christmas. Those who are closest to me know Christmas isn't my favorite holiday in the world, but hey, I'm not a total Grinch about it. I do put up my tree, I do enjoy SELECT Christmas music, within moderation of course, and absolutely NO COUNTRY Christmas songs...blecha!


I have already signed up for my first of three half marathons for next year, the Lincoln half marathon in May, and will probably start training in January, although the official training should start in February. I'm super excited to resume my race year, hoping to make it a total of 15 instead of this year's 13. Wish me luck!


So, thanks for being patient during this brief lapse, and I hope you start reading my blogs once again (and actually enjoying them). :)


Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Thanksfulness

Thanksfulness. 


Yes, it's a (new) word.


We've all been inundated with the 20 some odd days of "I'm thankful for's" on Facebook or whatever social media we're chained to. I'm not opposed to it, but that's not really been high on my priorities as something to do. Don't get me wrong...I believe myself to be a very gracious person, and I am thankful for every day things, but I CHOOSE to be verbal about the things I'm MOST thankful for, even if it is after Thanksgiving.


Family...Nothing beats family, even if there are struggles and challenges, we all love and support each other.


Friends...I have the best friends on the planet. They're always there to pick me up when I'm at my lowest, support me in my endeavors, encourage me when I feel defeated, push me when I feel like I can't go any further, and kick my ass when it needs kicked. My friends are like my family, and you don't mess with my family.


New experiences...I have gained so much from all of my Zumba family, my new running family, my new active lifestyle, it's just amazing. It feels so good to start having the life I've always wanted, and I couldn't have done it without everyone's support. I know I owe my new life to myself because I've made the changes, but I also owe my new life to all of you.


My achievements...WHO KNEW 40, 10, 6, or even 2 years ago that I'd be able to accomplish any of the tasks that I have taken on when it comes to fitness. I've never known what it's like to be an athlete, have always been told I couldn't do it, and look at me now. Thanks to Zumba I'm a dancer once again. I'm a runner. I'm taking on new challenges. I'm an athlete. I'm more fit than I have ever been, I'm feeling good about myself, I'm proud of all my accomplishments, and I'm determined to keep this lifestyle change for the rest of my life.


And finally, My Midnight (R.I.P), and My Gypsycat. I can't forget them!


I hope everyone had a very blessed Thanksgiving, and have taken a little time and effort to share your Thanksfulness.


Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Oversleeping and Discoveries

Oops! I didn't hear my alarm clock and overslept boot camp. On the bright side, I slept a whole 11 hours. I think I needed that as much as I needed to go to boot camp.


I've also discovered the longer I stay awake, the more I want to eat. Weird!


Today's Workout (11/17/11)...1 hour Zumba class.


Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Something New

Today I added something new to my workout regimen...Body Pump. WOW! Talk about an ass kicking! That's for sure going to ramp up the intensity to my workouts!


So I'm not in traction yet, but I'm presuming that tomorrow's boot camp will be even tougher than usual, because today's body pump was AFTER a four mile run.


I'll keep you posted.


Today's workout: 4 mile run, 1/2 hour Body Pump. I would count Zumba but I was only there for 15 minutes....oops! There went my plans for 3 hours at the Y!


Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

One Down, Five To Go

Week one of boot camp is in the books. It's harder than HELL, y'all! We've already done things like battle ropes, raced with wheelbarrows full of pumpkins, sprints, and way too many other things to even comprehend. 


It's only been a week, but so far I've found out things I physically am unable to do, like human wheelbarrows, tricep dips, and jumping. Yes, jumping. In the midst of these hurdles, I am finding out that I can do more than what I thought was physically able to do, and am working on fighting through both the mental and the physical challenges. Oh, and I'm also finding out that I CAN get my yass up at the BUTT CRACK of dawn to go work out, and be awake for the rest of the day.


All 50 some odd people may be at boot camp for different reasons, but when you get a room full of people working together for motivation's sake, and six instructors pushing you to finish, it makes a difference.

So yes, for the past week I've been walking around like I've been riding a horse bareback for a month of Sundays because I'm so sore, and I'm sure I'll be feeling this way for the next five weeks, but it's all worth it.


Next week's added challenge...Body Pump!


Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Ouch

Yep, the day after first day of boot camp, and I can safely say that I'm sore. I was able to do Zumba this morning, although fairly painful. Oh well. No pain, no gain, right?


We did a whole bunch of things yesterday....lunges, shuffles, running with pumpkins, wheelbarrow races (filled with all different sizes of pumpkins).

I've found out that I can't do tricep dips, I don't jump well, I shouldn't wear jewelry in boot camp, to ALWAYS stretch afterwards, that strangers come together as a unit for one common goal of fitness, and that if it WEREN'T for my two years of Zumba and running I wouldn't be as conditioned to accept this next challenge.


Today's workout: 1 hour of Zumba


Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Boot Camp

It's hard, it's fun, the soreness is currently setting in, and I've been awake since 5 am. It's currently 12:30 am.
I'm going to bed. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz


Today's workout...too many things to even start listing.


Zumbarunner...whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Upping The Ante

This week takes me on a new journey, to see how tough I really am. Tomorrow, I start a six week, twice a week, BUTT CRACK OF DAWN, boot camp at the Y. It's a way for me to challenge myself both mentally and physically, to maybe see what I'm really capable of, and to finally say goodbye to "Fat Connie".


Of course, both days of boot camp just happen to be on my "Mondays" and "Fridays" at 5:30am...only 7 measly hours before work. I'll also attempt Zumba throughout the week on my off days as well, that is if I'll be remotely able to move any muscles in my body at all.


So what did I do to celebrate my last day of "fatdom"? I went to Coldstone, of course, getting the "love it" chocolate devotion with Ghirardelli ice cream in a plain chocolate dipped waffle bowl. Hey, I was GOING to get the "GOTTA HAVE IT" portion, but talked myself out of that one. See, I DO SO have discipline! 
So yes, as I sleep tonight, and while my body stores the last few HUNDRED calories of the crap I put in my mouth before being subjected to whatever boot camp trainers throw at me, I'll sleep knowing that I shouldn't have done it, but it tasted REALLY GOOD!


I have to say I did kick start my boot camp adventure with a 2-ish mile run this morning in observance of World Run Day. While I did look at my watch when I started and finished, I didn't officially time myself, and I didn't rate my distance either. I don't do that enough, run just to run. It felt good to know I was one of thousands of runners from around the world to celebrate the joy of running.


Wish me luck and no injuries tomorrow, as it's an early night for sleep before reality sets in tomorrow morning. 


Today's workout...2-ish mile street run.


Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!


Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-10/29/11(49:33)-Kearney, NE
World Run Day 2-ish Mile-Kearney, NE 11/6/11 (35 minutes-unofficial)

11 Down

On Oct. 29, 2011 (yesterday) I ran my 11th race for the year. Interestingly enough, I started running races just six months ago, and started running seriously 9 months ago.

Yesterday's race was the Bearcat 5k, helping raise money for the Kearney High School Special Education program. While my finish time was less than stellar, (no pr), the conditions (while freezing cold) and atmosphere were all great. I even got to run "with" some friends, too. Ok, they all ran WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY in front of me and I followed in true Zumbarunner fashion, but it was still cool.

Running these races helps reinforce in myself the reason why I'm continuing to add races yet this year and will up the ante and do even more next year. I'm committed to doing this for the long haul.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-10/29/11(49:33)-Kearney, NE
　
　
Pending Races:
World Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

I Got This!

I've done five football games in two days (with a 25lb camera on my shoulder), two KILLER squat routines and a 6 minute arm resistance routine in Zumba classes, a BIG OLE knot in my left shoulderblade later, AND, I get to run a 5k in 20 degree weather tomorrow morning.

YUP! I GOT THIS!

http://vevo.ly/taKOFc

Today's workout: 1 hour Zumba class

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
　
Pending Races:
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-October 29^thWorld Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

Temporary Lapse of Insanity

I signed up for 6 week holiday bootcamp at the Y...it starts at 5:45am. What did I get myself into?

Today's Workout (10-26-2011): 45 min Zumba

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
　
Pending Races:
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-October 29^thWorld Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

Nothing Really, part 2

Sorry, I've got nothing today...except this...

MAGIC BANANAS!

Today's workout...1 hour Zumba class.

Zumbarunner...whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
　
Pending Races:
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-October 29^thWorld Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

Starting Over

Last Friday I was in SUCH a negative space after trying to run at the gym, that I nearly quit. After all I've been through, after all the struggles, sacrifices, accomplishments, I just wanted to quit. It was just frustration, pure and simple, but this time it dragged me way down.

I've always told myself, though, (and everyone else) that I was afraid that if I did quit, that I would get back to Fat Connie status, and I would never let that happen.

That's why today was a starting over attitude adjustment day for me. Maybe it was because I got 7 hours of sleep, or maybe it's just because I REFUSE to revert to Fat Connie status...but whatever reason, this journey is here to stay.

This morning, I woke up, threw my workout gear on, went straight to my street run without even flinching. The run wasn't stellar by any means, but it was a nice day, and I felt good when I got done. I didn't even want to nap afterwards.

To all of y'all who have supported me (and still are), please continue to do so, because I can't continue my journey without you. I won't let you down, and I won't let myself down, either!

Today's workout: Oct. 24, 2011...1.11 mile street run.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
　
Pending Races:
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-October 29^thWorld Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

Do(n't) (Qu)it

That...was a close one.

Damn You frustration and doubt! This Zumbarunner WON'T QUIT!

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
　
Pending Races:
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-October 29^thWorld Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

Regrouping

Woohoo! I have another weekend to regroup, recover, and think about my fitness goals for next week!

Today's workout...45 minute Zumba and 1 mile track run at the YMCA

Zumbarunner...whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
　
Pending Races:
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-October 29^thWorld Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

Second Attempt

My attempt at today's three hour early morning workout was futile, as well as my five day workout week.

I did have a great day, though. I went to Loup City (home), ate lunch with the folks, we took a birthday cake to my Aunt in Litchfield, then went on a nice drive. We were headed for Arnold or Sargent, but ended up back in Kearney. Oh well, the drive was nice, regardless. We had dinner then back to Loup, then I drove back home to Kearney.

Maybe the second attempt at exercise will be better tomorrow.

Let's try this again, shall we? Second attempt at three hour morning workout...take two!

Today's workout...ZERO! Today's crap in mouth intake...TOO MUCH!

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
　
Pending Races:
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-October 29^thWorld Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

Reality TV

Just so you know, watching too much reality tv is like reading too many self help books...I'm just sayin'.

So tomorrow I'm attempting a 3 hour workout at the Y, starting at 5:30...zzzzzzzzzzzz...i hope my bedhead won't be too bad. Wish me luck!

Today's (10/18/11) workout...45 minute Zumba class.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
　
Pending Races:
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-October 29^thWorld Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

And So It Begins

I came SOOOOOOOOOOOOO close to going back to bed this morning after doing errands, it's not even funny. I woke up, threw my workout gear and even my running shoes on, because for some reason, the thought did cross my mind to do a street run or even go to the Y afterwards, but I didn't have my headphones.

There it was, the "reason" to not workout, or run even. I had to go back home if I wanted to do any sort of exercise. I hate running without headphones, because I hear the clomping of my Frodo Flintstone Clydesdayle feet hitting the pavement, and it makes my mind and ears cringe.

So here I am, back at home...do I run, do I nap? Run? NAP! Suddenly a random (rational) thought entered my mind. I'm already dressed to workout, I'll feel better if I do, and I felt the need to see if last Saturday's trail run time (1 hour, 2 min, some odd seconds) was because it was an insanely hard course or if I HAD really started getting that slow again.

I grabbed my headphones, turned on my Zumbarunner playlist, set my stupid, cheap pedo watch, and off I went for my usual 1-ish mile street run around the neighborhood. I went as fast as I could, finished at around my usual time, and ACTUALLY felt good to get it done.

HUH! WHODATHUNK? I even felt better the rest of the day! WEIRD!

So now it comes down to a decision I made on the way home from work tonight. Starting today, (Monday, Oct 17th, 2011)I'll work out (in some form) five days a week instead of four. Saturdays and Sundays (aside from work, which is a workout in itself), will be exercise free, except for the occasional 5k THEN work. I've decided to do this as a way to keep the intensity and discipline up, to help me lose my last 25 pounds.

And so it begins.

Today's workout (Monday, Oct. 17th, 2011)...1:13 mile street run at 15.9 min/mile. Not my fastest, but better than last Saturday's by a longshot!

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
　
Pending Races:
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-October 29^th

World Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

A Great Day

Another Rebecca Adams Green Cowpie Run/Walk is in the books, and again, it was an AWESOME DAY! Just knowing all the people to come out to either run, volunteer, or just have fun are just some of the reasons that makes the day so successful, but knowing they're all there to remember such a great person is icing on the cake.

The race included a 5k and a new half marathon. I did the 5k; my first trail 5k of my running "career". The course is brutal, but that's what makes the challenge more appealing. Imagine running through a hilly pasture filled with holes, ruts, washouts, critters, oh, and of course, cowpies. For those of you city slickers, that's heaping amounts of cow manure piled on the ground scattered sporadically, and practically around every step you take.

The first hill...words can't describe the length or the toughness of the first hill. Mostly everyone, including the "seasoned" runners had to walk at least a portion of the first hill. The terrain was very uneven, and some of the trail was barely wide enough for one person. Sorry to the half marathoner I met on that trail who decided to hop up on the hill to pass me.

This race by far is NOT the best race I've done. I finished the race only 17 minutes OVER my usual street run 5k, (1:02:45), but yesterday's race time wasn't what the day was about. Regardless of my time, it helped me reach two more accomplishments...my first trail run, and my 10th race since April of this year. Those two achievements still aren't as important as remembering Rebecca's memory, and keeping her spirit alive.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-5k 10/15/11 (1:02:45 finish/First Trail Run)-Loup City, NE
　
Pending Races:
Bearcat 5k-Kearney, NE-October 29^th

World Run Day-Kearney, NE-November 6th

In Rememberance

Tomorrow (well, technically today), is the 2nd annual Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cowpie Walk/Run in Loup City. This event was put together by friends and family members of Rebecca, who tragically died 2 years ago in June. She died trying to save her son from a swift current river in Steamboat Springs.

Rebecca was our first classmate who's life was cut too short. She had just turned 41. That makes you think, A LOT!

I owe a lot of my journey to Rebecca, because it made me realize how short life really is. I have said this before, that most of my life I didn't really care about myself at all, especially my health. That has changed immensely in the past 2 years, including losing 105 pounds (the last 55 since January, 2010), eating better (most days), becoming a Zumba fanatic, and running.

Tomorrow(today) I will be running my first trail run 5k, and running my 10th race since April of this year. I can't think of a better way to celebrate my friend's memory, and raise money for a worthwhile cause.

I will tackle this run like I tackled my first altitude 5k in Colorado in July. I'm not looking for a pr (personal record), and I'm not going to push myself. Tomorrow is about the day, not the prize.

Rebecca, this run's for you! I hope to make you proud!

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE

Pending Races:
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-October 15

TGIF!!!!!

It's my Friday! I'm SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO ready for my weekend, It's not even funny!

So, here's to the FREAKIN WEEKEND! Raise your glasses y'all!

Zumbarunner...whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Naptime!

It's been another long work weekend, and I'm exhausted. I've covered overnight spot news after only 2 hours  of sleep, driven in downpours, and got tackled on the sidelines. If I'm going to rock the workouts this week, I need to sleep, and soon!

Shhh...I'm hibernating!

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.....

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

"I came to WIN, to FIGHT, to CONQUER, to THRIVE
I came to WIN, to SURVIVE, to PROSPER, to RISE, to FLY!"
"FLY" Nicki Manaj ft. Rihanna

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE

Pending Races:
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-October 15

Just Another Friday

Ok, so I know it's Saturday in the real world, but Fridays...they're pretty cool.

GISH 56, Lincoln 14

Another reason why I love photography!

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

ps...I'M O-KAY!

Renewed Focus

Renewed focus.

I know, I know...I've probably said this before, in fact I know I have, but now it's time to own up and mean it.

Starting this week, today actually, will be a renewed focus and intensity on my training and weight loss. What's so different this time? I'm not sure. I know I've spent the whole summer trying to quell the feeling that I hadn't been living up to all that I've accomplished. I know that's a bunch of crap, because I'm aware of what I achieved. Ok...so it takes millions of people beating me about the head and shoulders to make me realize it...but I AM aware of all the time and hard work I've spent in the small steps, getting where I am today. I want more though. I want to get back to the intensity I had before my first 2 mile run last April, which led to my first 10k in May, then my first half marathon in June. Who does that? Who persists that much to gain so much mileage and determination in that short of time? I DO! I HAVE, AND NOW IT'S TIME TO DO IT AGAIN!

Today is the most time I've spent at the gym in a while...practically 2 1/2 hours, and it felt good! I may not be able to move tomorrow, and I know there is a risk of injury if I push myself too hard, but honey, I HAVE TO, AND I WILL!

In less than 2 weeks, I will be celebrating my 10th run this year, at an event that honors the life of my friend and classmate, Rebecca Adams Green. One of the reasons I started my journey 1 1/2 years ago is partly because of her passing. We were the same age. It made me start thinking about how short life is.

Everyone who knows me knows that I would put anyone else's cares, troubles, health, ANYTHING over my own.  I still do, and that will never stop, but now I'm starting to care about myself, too. It's a weird feeling, but I'm now starting to understand why it's so important to care about myself.

So the renewed focus is on. I want to get my running time down to AT MOST 14 min mile in the next six months. I'm determined to run 3 half marathons next year, and whatever 5k's and 10k's come my way along the way. I'm determined to get down to 150 and stay there. I'm determined to strengthen up, both mentally and physically, and eat better too.

The beast is back, baby!

By the way, get used to seeing my race results, because they will be a permanent fixture here. They're part of my journey, part of my achievements, part of me.

Today's workout...30 minutes Zumba, 5k run on track @ YMCA, Abcruncher machine, 30 minutes on stationary bike.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!


Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE

Pending Races:
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-October 15

I'm Back!

I'm back!

Did y'all miss me? Sorry it's taken so long to get back into the groove, but I'm back for good.

Yes, I've still been putting my shoes on, yes, I'm still running, yes, I'm still doing Zumba faithfully, yes, I've been putting too much crap in my mouth, yes, I've been maintaining instead of losing weight...sigh.

I ran another 5k this weekend...this time in Omaha for Susan G. Komen's Race For The Cure. It was amazing to see more than 20 thousand participants rally for one common goal...fighting breast cancer.

The race was good too, even though there were a couple STEEP, BIG-ASS hills I had to run...in the end, my time was pretty much the same as my run in July, so I'll go with that.

1 mile walk, 3/4 mile run, and 45 minute Zumba class.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Completed Races:
RACE for GRACE-2m Fun Run-4/9/11 (35:03:49)-Grand Island, NE
Richard H. Young Hospital's 5k or 10k walk or run for Mental Health-10k run 5/14/11 (1:47:00) Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Stampede-2011-Half Marathon 6/12/11 (4:04:00-Late Start)-Kearney, NE
18th Annual Olympiad-5k 6/25/11 (49:44)-Kearney, NE
Shelton Stampede/2011-5k 7/4/11 (49:26-pr)-Shelton, NE
Lizzie's Run 5k-8/13/11 (48:44 pr)-Kearney, NE
Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k *inaugural*-8/26/11 (51:52:88 chip), (52:05:59 end)-(First altitude 5k)-Golden, CO
Running To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43 official-pr)-North Platte, NE
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5k 10/2/11 (48:57-net time)-Omaha, NE

Pending Races:
Rebecca Adams Green Foundation Cow-Pie 5k/Half Marathon-October 15, 2011

Words

They're just words...

No they're not. They mean something, period.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Hmmm

What to say, what to say? Surely I can come up with something....nope. I've got nothing. Sorry!

I guess I can talk about not running this weekend. That's unusual because for the past couple months I've been doing races every couple weekends. I think I might have pushed myself a little too much with races, so I'm taking it easy until Run for the Cure in Omaha on October 2nd.

That's all I know.

Oh...Go Huskers! Oh...also, it's too early to be so damn cold!

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Thinking Ahead

Fat Connie REALLY needs to go away for good. I'm sick of her being in my head, and because of that, I'm setting really high standards for myself for next year. Are you ready for this? Ok.
First, getting down to 150 and staying there. I know, that's (only) another 25lbs for me. Easy as pie...mmm...pie.

FOCUS CONNIE...

I'm also striving to do 4 half marathons next year. Lincoln in May, Buffalo County Stampede in June, Chicago and Myrtle Beach in September and October.

These things have been rolling around in my head the past few days, only because I had an injury/recovery week last week, and am passing up 2 5k's this weekend. I'm also SOOO ready to say goodbye to "the gut". Am I setting myself up for failure? Probably. I'm a glutton for punishment. Do I have a LOT of work ahead of me? Definitely. Can I achieve these goals? We'll just have to wait and see.

Now, about that pie...

Today's workout...45 minute Zumba, 15 sprint work on track @ y, 1/2 hour elliptical, and ab cruncher.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Food Temptations

UGHHHH! Just UGHHHH!

Zumbarunner...Whether Shaking It or Running It, I'll Cross The Finish Line!

Just Chillin'

Just chillin'. That's really all I can do since yesterday's 10k. I kinda feel like I did after my half marathon in June, but only by half. Just a wee bit sore. Oh well, it was worth it! 

My 10k yesterday proved to be successful because I pr'd by about 3 1/2 minutes from my last one in April. I'll take that and run with it...pun intended. One thing that I learned the hard way, though, was to take a couple days off after doing a long run, because this morning I tweaked the muscle above my right ankle in Zumba class. It's just an annoyance, and I'll be back out and running (and shaking it) next week.

So for now I'm just chillin'. Yeah, man...just chillin'.

Zumbarunner...Whether Shaking It Or Running It, I'll Cross the Finish Line!

Bellering Calves

Mwaaa!  Mwaaa!

That's the sound my calves (leg muscles) were making about an hour after my 10k run this morning.

10k...that's 6.2 miles. That seems like a lot, and it is a lot, but it's getting to the point where's it's not so much a lot, but it's still a lot for me, only because I'm still slow, and always running my own race.

Yes, I was last (again), and I'm starting to become at peace with that...NOT a good thing. The bright side to today's whole story is three-fold. One, I helped fight breast cancer in North Platte at today's run. Two, I was able to stay with friends, some of who saw me off at the beginning then watched me finish. Third, even though I was the last one in, I still beat my last 10k run time (four months ago) by about 3 1/2 minutes.

Now it's time to get some sleep, and try to get these calves to stop bellering.

Mwaaaa! Mwaaaa! (SHUT UP!)...SIGH...

Today's workout: Race To Cure Breast Cancer 10k-9/5/11 (1:43:43)-North Platte, NE

Zumbarunner...Whether Shaking It Or Running It, I'll Cross The Finish Line!

Tired

Whew! What a day! I'm beat!

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Fear Vs. Boldness

".It's okay to be scared. Just don't forget to be bold, too."

I got this quote from someone I had the great privilege of meeting a couple months ago. His name is Ben Davis. I think I have mentioned him a time or two. He started running two years ago at the weight of about 350 lbs, and is now down to about 185, running Ironmans, triathlons, and marathons.

http://www.bendoeslife.com/

He is the core behind "Do Life". His message is to help people change their lives through exercise and fitness, and to make a positive change in their lives in general...no matter what they need to change.

When I saw this quote tonight it struck a cord with me, because there are many things I'm afraid of. I'm afraid of change, I'm afraid of losing friendships, I'm afraid of the treadmill, I'm afraid of never finding love, I'm afraid of trying new things, I'm afraid of failure...

I've been scared throughout my whole journey, but many people have helped me overcome some of my fears, by helping me become a bolder person. I'm slowly progressing over my fear of the treadmill, I've overcome my fear of not being able to run, I'm getting better at trying new things.

While I will always be afraid of failure, I am realizing more that my journey wouldn't have been successful without some form of boldness. The boldness is pushing myself to lose 55 lbs in a year and a half.  The boldness is pushing myself to run a half marathon in six months. The boldness is making new lasting friendships while knowing that the lifelong, lasting friendships I've been able to maintain throughout my lifetime will always be there as well. The boldness is having the courage to try something different, to keep challenging myself to do something better. The boldness is having lost 105 lbs in 6 years.

Today I thought I had failed because my 2 mile run turned into a 1 mile walk. I then heard words of encouragement, thought of my older brother who lost 45 lbs by walking, remembered how these last two weeks have been filled with non-stop activity, and decided to take things slow and relax a bit. The fear was the failure...the boldness was everything else.

"It's okay to be scared. Just don't forget to be bold, too."

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

 

 

Back At It

I know I said I'd try to write while on vacation, but that never happened. Now that I'm back, it's time to get back at it, so let's begin with vacation.

Vacation in Colorado was full of activities, SORT OF relaxing, but it was still good to get away. This was a family vacation for me, including a wedding rehearsal the Thursday evening we (my folks and I) arrived, a day trip to Estes Park on Friday, Saturday's full schedule of a mani-pedi, my nephew's wedding and reception, Sunday's Kilometers for C.O.P.S. 5k (my first altitude 5k, btw) and trip to Ft. Collins to see fellow Zumba friend, and long trip home on Monday. WHEW! It makes me tired just thinking about it!

My sister and her family even made the long trip from KCK on Friday, but not without some hitches...including a blown tire, my sister's dental fiasco, my bro in law's illness, and sheer exhaustion at the end of the day.

On Friday my folks and I drove to Estes Park through Boulder, where bikers were training for a weekend triathlon. That was cool enough to see, but what was even cooler was seeing the Boulder Running Company store. Don't even ask me why I got excited about seeing the storefront, but I did...hmm.

The wedding was nice and simple, yet elegant, with the reception at a mansion on Lookout Mountain...awesome food, too! My brother (nephew's dad) made the wedding cake....a cheesecake. John's famous for them. They also had mini cupcakes for everyone to eat, of course after eating a three course dinner consisting of a zucchini salad, beef medallions or sea bass, and asparagus. I, of course, passed on the asparagus and sea bass. That's just how I roll.

Sunday's run was in Golden 20 minutes away. It took me nearly an hour to get to the location, because I kept getting lost, and I had to get there early because I hadn't registered for it yet. I think I made it with about 5 minutes to spare! It was on a police pursuit training course on a mesa overlooking Golden. It was HOT at 9am...about 85 degrees I would say. The course was mostly flat with a couple small inclines, but not too bad. This was my first ever altitude run, which was the main reason for me to do it. It was my challenge to myself.

The race went well. It was my first chip-timed race, there were about 65 entries (including walkers), and I just took it easy, because I wasn't sure if I would get altitude sickness. I didn't struggle too hard, but just kept at a steady pace. I wasn't looking to make a personal record on this, I was just looking to finish.

I struck up a conversation with another walker during the last mile of the run. Remember, I run slow. She was impressed at how I was doing this run after only 2 days of being acclamated to the altitude adjustment, at how I was running steady throughout the whole race.

I did Kick It at the end of the race, crossing in 51:52, which was only 3 minutes behind my last 5k in August. A part of me wishes now that I would have kicked it a little bit earlier, but again, I wasn't there to set a personal record. I was there to challenge myself; to see if I could actually run a 5k in altitude.

On the way back to my motel, I was able to see some cyclists compete in the US Bicycle tour going through the area. They were racing down Lookout Mountain. That was cool!

Sunday afternoon was awesome too, after seeing a fellow Zumba member, even if only for a half hour or so.

So many memories made on this trip. It was a good trip. Time spent with family, people starting new chapters, and challenges met. Now it's back to reality, and time to once again get back at it.

Today's training...one mile street run.

Zumbarunner...Whether Shaking it or Running it, I'll cross the finish line!

 mesa view

Kilometers for C.O.P.S. runners

Kilometers for C.O.P.S. Pre-ceremony (beginning)









                                                                      Kilometers for C.O.P.S. Registration

Kilometers for C.O.P.S. finish

Vacation Blog

Sorry folks...gonna be unavailable for a few days, although there is a lot I could write already, but I'm on a Rocky Mountain High, Colorado.

Peace y'all!

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Did pretty good today food wise, however, that supremely divine piece of chocolate cake I just finished was to die for! Oh, don't judge...it was for a wedding rehearsal! I even ate my veggies, protiens and carbs, so there! I know, no excuse, but I did end up drinking about 4 liters of water today too...glug, glug!

Ok, maybe I will do a vacay blog...we'll see.

Accountability

Accountability.

You would think it wouldn't be too hard to keep status quo on something you've been doing for the past two years, but it is. Once you fall off the wagon, it's hard to get back on.

I've been falling off all summer. It's my own fault, I admit it. I've been eating again. It's been easy to hit the drive thru's in junk food alley, hit the ice cream, put that crap in my mouth, lose focus on the ultimate goal of weightloss and fitness, cut back on my discipline at the gym, and ultimately undo everything I've done to get where I am today.

There's hundreds of excuses, but no real reasons why I'm sabotaging myself. A huge part of me feels guilty because I've had people tell me I inspire them to lose weight, but a small part of me says "it's ok...you're allowed to eat what you want again, because you've earned it. You're maintaining now, you'll be ok". That's not true, and I'll admit it.

I'm struggling. I'm an emotional eater. I'm sabotaging myself. I'm making mistakes. I haven't been holding myself accountable. So what now?

I'm still exercising daily, I've gotten back to drinking 2 liters of water (most days), and I'm challenging myself to get back on track during the worst possible time...vacation. Yup! Vacation (with the family, even) starts on Thursday, complete with a long road trip, tons of wedding festivities, and seeing old friends. Am I a glutton for punishment? Admittedly so! Am I setting myself up for disaster? Definitely!

Herein lies the challenge. I come from a family of eaters. We celebrate with food. We stop frequently for "cool ones" (ice cream or pop). We eat every three or four hours. I also eat when I drive so I can stay awake. Up until this summer have I been able to resist most of this, but since I've bowed to my weaknesses this summer, it'll take all I have in me to get back on the right path again.

This whole time during my journey I've been afraid of undoing all I've done. I'm now staring at it square in the face, and not liking what I'm seeing. It's clearly an inner battle with Fat Connie, and the gloves are off again. THANKFULLY, I've been maintaining my weight this whole summer...WHEW!

The time may come soon where I'll ask for help to keep me accountable, but for right now, I'm the only one that can do it. It's up to me!

This will clearly be a big challenge for me, so supporters, keep supporting me, and those I've inspired, don't give up on me (or yourselves) just yet. I'll get to my second goal (and final) goal of 150, it just might take a little extra time.

Today's exercise...1/2 hour Zumba.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Setbacks

Setbacks! UGH! I HATE setbacks! This week I have two...an injury and my love-hate relationship with food. I'm hoping the injury will clear up by the end of the week. I'm needing to tackle the food relationship NOW!

I'll keep you posted.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Time To Rest

So, even though I don't think I've been pushing myself as much as I had before my half marathon in June, I've still been fairly active.
This week is a seven day work stretch for me, and as much as I hate to say this, I need a couple relax days. (sigh)

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Staying In Touch

Today (well, techincally yesterday since it's after midnight,) I spoke to a close friend from college. We haven't spoken for close to a year. There's no real reason, except for our busy lives getting in the way.

It was great to talk to her after all this time, knowing that we can pick up where we left off, catching up on all the new things going on in each other's lives.

It makes me appreciate ALL my friends I have in my life...new ones, old ones, and everyone in between.

I can't say it enough...I have the best peeps in the world...PERIOD!

Today's workout...ok, yesterday's...lol...1 hour Zumba, 1 mile track run, abcrunch machine.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

p.s. It's my folk's 48th anniversary today! Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!

Persistence

Is it stubbornness, or is it persistence that pays off in the end? I think they're the exact same thing, just one word has a whole different connotation than the other. Translation, stubbornness implies bullheadedness...persistence implies determination.

Last week, my sunglasses broke. No big thing, right, but these sunglasses are magnetic clip-ons, and cost $70 to replace. It's my own damn fault they broke, I'll admit it, but it meant driving and working without sunglasses, something I'm not keen on doing...especially being light sensitive.

After the "nerd tape" on my frames didn't work, I went to at least 6 or 7 eye places, and one jewelry store, to see if they could fix my shades..."nope, we don't do that. They're broken in the wrong place anyway...you'll have to order new ones."

My yass I will...

After one more shot today at yet another eyecare place here in Kearney, "sure, we'll give it a try...just leave them here and we'll call you". UGH! What's another day without sunglasses? I've waited for a week already. Four hours later they called, said they got my glasses fixed. HALLELUIAH! For a mere $25, my glasses were fixed! Run and tell that to those who just wanted me to spend another $70 to get new ones...

That's persistence.

I guess persistence and stubbornness is how I have to look at my journey. This time they're the same thing. The persisitence is trying to keep my journey going, vowing not to stop. The stubbornness is defying the haters and doubters; trying to defy MY inner hater, (Fat Connie), proving to everyone and myself that I have achieved my results so far, and have farther to go before I'm done. 

The stubbornness is also working against me; allowing me to stray off my path, becoming less focused, less disciplined than usual. It's a daily struggle to find a balance between persistence and stubbornness, but I still manage to put my shoes on, still do something, maybe not as much but still something, with the full knowledge of knowing that I MUST do more...because I'll be damned if I'm going to revert completely. I've worked too hard. I've accomplished a lot, but I need to achieve more, and I will...in time.

That's persistence...That's stubbornness...That's me.

http://youtu.be/XwI4zsNteU8

Today's workout...1 hour Zumba class.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Believe It Sista!

After 40-some odd years of always dwelling on the negatives, I'm finding myself remembering the positive things a little more than I used to. It's very strange, but maybe that's part of the journey to be my better self. Here's two of the things that happened last weekend.

After completing a 5k that we both participated in, a close friend of mine gave me what was rightfully hers...her first place medal. Priceless!

The next day, while working, I saw a co-worker I haven't seen in a few couple months. She works in a different department and city than I do.

Marcia sees me and says "You've lost weight!"
"Yes I have!"
"Did you mean to?"
"Yes I did. Zumba and running. I lost 55 lbs in a year and a half, and 105 in 6 years."
"Well I had to do a double-take, when they said Connie!"

I can live with that!

Today's workout...none...will start back tomorrow...pinky swear.

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Finally...

My weekend's here! WOOOOOOOOOOOOO! It's been a REALLY eventful week, filled with a huge rollercoaster of emotions, and tons of drive time, and now it's time to chill, pickle!

Back at the training harder than ever tomorrow...but now, it's time for pizza and ice cream!

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Selflessness

I learned the true act of selflessness today. I (along with a bunch of other people) ran a memorial 5k this morning. Many of my friends ran too. They're all WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY faster than me too, but in true runner's style, we all ran our own races.

Some of us pr'd (lingo for personal best), all of us ran because we love to run, some finished (close) to last (me), some of us won our individual categories...but ALL of us won.

I learned the true act of selflessness today, which confirms what I have known all my life...that my friends, my anchors, my supporters are truly amazing people, and I"m TRULY blessed to have them all in my corner.

Today's workout: Lizzie Stratton 5k Memorial Run...49.10 (pr)

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Coincidence? I Think Not!

I first started running races in April, with a 2 mile run during Grand Island's Race For Grace. I was busy tieing my shoes when the race started, so I ran with one loose shoe and one tight shoe. I also didn't have my music ready either.

During my 10k in May, it was really cold, and my first stupid, cheap pedo watch stopped working 1/3 of the way into the run.

June's Buffalo Co. Stamped Half Marathon, I was using the "facilities" at the beginning of the race, forcing me to start late.

Today's the day before Lizzie's 5k in Kearney, and my sunglasses break. This is a $68 pair of magnetic clip-ons, yo...

Coincidence? I think not!

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!

Celebrity Sighting

I've always been into sports, but have never had the opportunity to play...ok, the exception being in softball during summers growing up, but other than that, not a chance. Fast forward to today.

Ever hear of Rulon Gardner? No? Maybe this will ring a bell...two time Olympic wrestler...no? Nebraska native...nothing? How about this...Season 11 Biggest Loser contestant...ok, now, you're back.

He came to Kearney today during a Live Well Nebraska tour. Chance to meet someone famous? You betcha! Chance to Zumba with someone famous? Ok, that didn't happpen...it should have, but it didn't. Oh well.

I got to meet Rulon Gardner...ok, so did a bunch of other people, but I got to meet him, talk with him for a minute, and get my picture taken with him. Ok, so did a bunch of other people, but hey, work with me here.

He walked off the Biggest Loser because he felt he was ready to train for the 2012 Olympic wrestling team. He wants another shot. It was kind of inspiring to see him, and hear that he's had to overcome a bunch of obstacles in order to get where he is.

Today I told Rulon the short story...the "I lost 55 lbs in a year and a half" story, instead of the whole "I lost 100 lbs in 6 years, but the last 55 were in a year and a half."...I don't know how to refer the subject just yet. To me, it's easier to say the 55lbs in a year and a half than to say the whole schpeel.

Regardless, I got a little more motivation today, got to hug some really HOT guys (for the picture, of course), and tackled another fear at my third Zumba class. All is good with the world.

Today's workout...2 hours of Zumba, and 2 mile run on "dreadmill".

Zumbarunner...Whether shaking it or running it, I'll cross the finish line!