//Retro Rehab\\

2012-02-08T06:54:00.000-06:00

Currently: missing both.

This place.

This man.

2012-02-03T16:16:00.004-06:00

Being Positive in the Present...

Train your brain Notes:
-3 Gratitudes (3 new things for 21 days. Brain begins to write a pattern to see the world more positively)

-Journaling (About one positive experience you have had over the last 24 hrs teaches your brain to re-live these moments.)

-Exercise (Teaches your brain that behavior matters)

-Meditation (Detaches you from multi-tasking. Increases your focus on the task at hand)

-Random Acts of Kindness (1 positive email thanking somebody in your social support network)

2012-02-02T20:47:00.003-06:00

My official picture from Saturday's Securian Half Marathon

.Some Thoughts.

"Running long and hard is an ideal antidepressant, since it's hard to run and feel sorry for yourself at the same time. Also, there are those hours of clearheadedness that follow a long run."

-Monte Davis

This week I have been feeling emotionally low. Work is hard, stress is high, and times with my husband are very few and far between. So often running has been my cure for boredom, sedentary thoughts, and stress release. After my half marathon last Saturday I thought I would take a break from running for about a week. So, I did. Of course, I followed through with the plan thinking that a break from running would be good, healthy, and help me to get re-inspired for Spring Training.

However, some how throughout the week, my lack of running started to affect me in the most negative of ways. Never would I have imagined such a short break (within 2 days I felt it) from my running habit would, or could, become so detrimental to my mental and emotional health.

Of course, it is mid winter here in dreary Minnesota. Dark mornings, short overcast days, pale skin, well you get the picture. Pretty depressing, huh? And this is essentially how I have been feeling...depressed.

My weekly runs are missed, my endorphin boosts cost me energy throughout my teaching days, and I owe many apologies to my husband for being extra sad, overwhelmed, and emotionally unstable this week.

I also know that my strength and JOY comes from the Lord, however, I also know that he has taught me how my body works, especially in the winter months. My body and brain needs movement, it needs fresh air and sunshine, it needs to run!

To sum it up, tomorrow I am heading out for a run.

It may not be a long one, but it will definitely have an impact on my outlook on life...a positive one, of course.

2012-02-01T16:58:00.000-06:00

It's Official!

Chicago Marathon...here I come!

2012-01-31T18:09:00.000-06:00

too cute.

find it here.

2012-01-31T17:34:00.000-06:00

Currently loving Bethel Music & Jenn Johnson...

2012-01-31T17:22:00.002-06:00

I know what I will be doing on my lunch hour tomorrow.

Um, yea.

This is kind of happening...

registration opens at 12:00 PM tomorrow!

See you there!

2012-01-29T18:18:00.001-06:00

Securian Half Marathon RE-Caps

1.28.2012

Good Morning!

It was a perfect morning for St. Paul's Securian Half Marathon...

(Fruit and coffee started my morning)

...a perfect way to start a Saturday morning with my BFF-Mandy

and

...a perfect way to start off my running goals in the first month of 2012!

I snacked on some Eziekel Sprouted bread, toasted with almond butter and jelly pre-race

-Pre-Race banana

-Sport Beans during 13.1

Stretching!

Inside the Securian building...

Outside the Securian, getting ready to race!

My BFF-She's so cute!

(Thanks for being my photojournalist for the morning Mandy!)

Mentally preparing.

(This was something I did not do much of prior to this race. I would not recommend this. Big mistake. However, it also provided me with a new challenge.)

Lesson learned:

Push through it, ~~even when~~ especially when you don't feel like it!

At this point, I was literally thinking to myself, "What did I get myself in to? I would so much rather be sleeping right now. Can I drop out and head back to bed?..."

Then the group started walking to the start line...

"Never mind, I better just get this done with, and quick! My bed, my BFF and a movie is waiting for me at home!

I did it!

Here I am sneaking my way up to the finish line.

Relief!

I made it!

And...in record time!

I actually set a new PR by 1 minute!

Official time-1:54:18

Average mile/hour-8:44

At this point, I was so ready for a nap, some good food, and more quality time with my BFF!

Happy runner=Happy weekend!

2012-01-24T17:46:00.000-06:00

.two RUNS today.

Run #1--5:45AM

4 miles on the dreadmill.

Run #2--4:15PM

6 miles on a beautifully snowy 22* trail.

two runs.

ten miles.

ta-dah!

2012-01-23T20:23:00.000-06:00

Wow.

Half Marathon #1 of 2012 is in four days!

This weekend I was planning to run a 10 miler while at camp.

Well, the weather had other plans for me.

With a low of -13 degrees, the most I did was bundle up, watch some High School Students play broom ball, stand by a campfire and of course, burry myself in blankets in a cozy cabin with a book for a few hours on Saturday afternoon.

Today, I am back on course with my plan, minus that weekend long run.

My plan is to make it up sometime between working 40+ hours, trying to finish 2 books for a Thursday and Friday night book club, and staying on top of church commitments both Monday and Wednesday night. Ah!

Here is my plan for the week:

~~M-4 miles PM(fast)~~

T-5 in AM (easy) &

5 in PM (easy) & weights

W-3 miles AM (fast)

Th-2 miles PM(easy!)& weights (or off)

F-5:30 AM Cycle (take it real easy!)

S-13.1 (AM race in St. Paul)

There it is-I'm sticking to it!

Sweet dreams.

2012-01-14T16:03:00.002-06:00

The 40 Runner’s Commandments

by Joe Kelly (via Facebook page : Dare to Be Different)

1. Don’t be a whiner. Nobody likes a whiner, not even other whiners.

2. Walking out the door is often the toughest part of a run.

3. Don’t make running your life. Make it part of your life.

4. Keep promises, especially ones made to yourself.

5. The faster you are the less you should talk about your times.

6. Keep a quarter in your pocket. One day you’ll need to call for a ride.

7. Don’t compare yourself to other runners.

8. All runners are equal, some are just faster than others.

9. Keep in mind that the later in the day it gets, the more likely it is that you won’t run.

10. For a change of pace, get driven out and then run back.

11. If it was easy, everybody would be a runner.

12. When standing in starting lines, remind yourself how fortunate you are to be there.

13. Getting out of shape is much easier than getting into shape.

14. A bad day of running still beats a good day at work.

15. Don’t talk about your running injuries. People don’t want to hear about your sore knee or black toe.

16. Don’t always run alone.

17. Don’t always run with people.

18. Approach running as if the quality of your life depended on it.

19. No matter how slow, your run is still faster than someone sitting on a couch.

20. Keep in mind that the harder you run during training, the luckier you’ll get during racing.

21. Races aren’t just for those who can run fast.

22. There are no shortcuts to running excellence.

23. The best runs sometimes come on days when you didn’t feel like running.

24. There is nothing boring about running. There are, however, boring people who run.

25. Distance running is like cod liver oil. At first it makes you feel awful, then it makes you feel better.

26. Never throw away the instructions to your running watch.

27. Don’t try to outrun dogs.

28. Don’t wait for perfect weather. If you do, you won’t run very often.

29. When tempted to stop being a runner, make a list of the reasons you started.

30. Without goals, training has no purpose.

31. Go for broke, but be prepared to be broken.

32. Spend more time running on the roads than sitting on the couch.

33. Make progress in your training, but progress at your own rate.

34. “Winning” means different things to different people.

35. Unless you make your living as a runner, don’t take running too seriously.

36. Never tell a runner that he or she doesn’t look good in tights.

37. Never confuse the Ben-Gay tube with the toothpaste tube.

38. Preventing running injuries is easier than curing them.

39. Running is simple. Don’t make it complicated.

40. Running is always enjoyable. Sometimes, though, the joy doesn’t come until the end of the run.

2012-01-08T21:31:00.000-06:00

//Memories from 2011//

I completed:

ONE-5K
ONE-10K

TWO-Half Marathons
ONE-Full Marathon
MY FIRST EVER-Triathon

Securian Half Marathon in January

A Valentine's Day 5k came next (not pictured).

Training for my May Minnetonka Half Marathon during Spring Break in Florida.

I bought a beauty-of-a-bike in the spring.

Long run=ice baths in the summer month.

Fourth of July 10k took place too! Check it out here.

August brought me to my first triathlon!

I even ran internationally this year!

A missions trip lead us to Germany in August. The land was beautiful!

Finally, Twin Cities Marathon in October!

Beating my previous time by 15 minutes!

Official time-4:08

I would have to say, it was an amazing year!

Currently, I looking forward to what 2012 has to bring...check out my 'races' page to see the races I plan to run. There will be more talk of running goals for 2012 in future posts, so stay tuned! Now, time for bed.

5:30am cycle class awaits me before the sun rises.

Good night friends!

2011-12-26T16:18:00.001-06:00

Lots of this...

requires more of this...

and even MORE of this...

Christmas Day 5.5 mile Run

mile 1-8:44

mile 2-8:43

mile 3-8:40

mile 4-8:26

mile 5-8:22

mile 1/2-6:22

estimated time: 45 minutes

Post Christmas Day 5 mile run

mile 1-8:11

mile 2-8:18

mile 3-8:31

mile 4-8:50

mile 5-9:00

(slow cool-down)

time: 42.48 minutes

I am loving vacation...hope you are enjoying it too!

2011-12-24T08:45:00.000-06:00

A Christmas tea for my aunts and girlie cousins yesterday morn. It was a delight.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-06T20:41:00.002-06:00

-Nord-Lake-

....exactly what all six of us needed this past weekend...

Will & Jenn, Justin & Katie, and Zach & I all headed up North on Friday night for a quick 24 hour weekend get-away.

It was the sweetest time!

We ate three amazing meals, shared many laughs, and encouraged one another in HUGE ways.

Justin and Katie made dinner (above)-amazing tacos!

Zach & I made breakfast (below)-waffles, eggs, chicken sausages & fruit

Will & Jenn (not pictured)-delicious baked ham and cheese sandwiches and sweet potato fries.

It was the sweetest thing to spend time with these couples who desire to love and serve their spouses and friends, and deepen their relationships with Jesus. Oh, amazing times.

Saturday morning the ladies took a walk...and met these new friends!

What a sweet blessing these FOREVER friends will be.

A HUGE thanks to Jenn's mom and stepdad for allowing us to enjoy their Log cabin MANSION Up North.

May many more memories be made in and around this amazing place!

2011-11-29T22:26:00.000-06:00

Lots of this...

this...

and this so far this week!

Remember,

Hebrews 4:12 says,

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword...

2011-11-26T21:17:00.001-06:00

Thanksgiving memories.

cranberry cake with mom.

Skinny peppermint mochas xoxox dad.

Zachy and Lola.

The newest member to the Lopez household.

she is such a sweetie.

my most recent bed time snack combination.

froYo.berries.mini.chips.

my youthful ready habits...recommended by lauren.

can you see our tree(s) in the background. yeah-Christmas decorations are up! currently enjoying these christmas tunes.

happy thanksgiving to all!

2011-11-24T08:37:00.000-06:00

2011-11-19T21:09:00.001-06:00

currently reading this for fun.

greens make me happy.

twinkle lights on the first snow.

comfortable me.
pictures from a delightful saturday.

2011-11-17T20:02:00.002-06:00

this is me in a bathroom in central park.

i visited NYC last weekend.

it was a joy!

more pictures soon to come.

2011-11-17T20:00:00.002-06:00

oh sweet times.

2011-11-04T19:24:00.003-05:00

What do you run for?

Tonight as I geared up on a Friday at 6pm I thought to myself, "Why am I running tonight?"

Really, I mean, it's Friday night. Shouldn't I be relaxing on the couch, content after a long week of teaching, church activities, and all of the work that comes with a busy life? No way. Running on Friday nights have slowly become an event that I look forward to. It is easily one of my favorite things about Friday.

Not only am I closing a week, but I am releasing extra stress, energy, and worry that might still be weighing me down.

Tonight a 4.5 miler at 8:56 mile pace was just that.

A sweet release of stress.

A great way to bring in the weekend.

Some may think it sick, I think it healthy.

Cheers to another restful and fun weekend filled with running, family, and friends!

Now, if I only had some eggs in the fridge to bake some cookies. Of course, my other favorite way to "unwind".

2011-11-03T09:23:00.000-05:00

Busy Days.

Here I am again. Wanting to be back blogging but seeming to put it on the bottom of my "to do" list each week. This season has been wonderful, challenging, and rewarding, all at the same time. With school back in the swing, church activities, Bible studies, and weekend trips up to camp, I can hardly believe it is already November.

Motivation Seeking.

After Marathon weekend I have continued to run. The weekend following the marathon I felt strong enough to complete a 6 miler, and since then, I think that has been my farthest run. I have been running 2-3 times per week, but nothing more than 3-5 miles. I missed the Monster Dash registration, however, that day was spent running with my brother, much more important. I need to sign up for another race...I am seeking motivation in this area.

Inspiration.

I have been learning a lot from God these past few months. The Bible has been my source for direction and peace. I have been studying Acts at BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) and we are continuing our study in Acts at Renovation Church in Blaine. Both studies have already helped me to remember that I will face trials and troubles, but I must learn how to rejoice and see JOY in these difficult times. When God gives me these times, I need to remember that it is all through HIM and HIS power that I can be strong. It is not easy being a Christian, but it definitely worth it.

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness, so that Christ's power may rest on me."

2 Corinthians 12:9

Rest.

I know that the Lord is calling me to "Be still" and rest. It is so important to take the time to do this, especially when life feels a bit out of control.

I hope that you too can make time to rest today.

2011-10-04T16:59:00.002-05:00

Marathon #2: Twin Cities 2011

WOW! What an amazing day I had on Sunday.

It all feels like a dream. Except, every time I try to sit, stand, squat, well, let's just say, anything involving movement, I am happily reminded that it DID just happen!

Yes! I did just run my 2nd marathon!
Yes I am super duper sore!
Yes, I did beat my marathon time by 15 minutes!
I did run 26.2 in 4 hours and 8 minutes.
And yes, I am limping and completely dependent on ice and my chair on wheels at work to make it through the day.

But what a fabulous day it was. Almost as good as a dream, but even better, because it was real.
It really did happen.

Lets start from the beginning.

Pre-Race Dinner:

Salmon with Lemon and Dill

2 pieces of trail bread with butter (lots of nuts!)

Quinoa spicy mix from Lakewinds CO-OP

Chocolate Soy Milk (not pictured)

H20-hydrate!

2/3 Pumpkin Bar (not pictured)

Breakfast:

Wheaties FUEL+Splash of Vanilla Almond Milk

Trail Bread with PB and Jelly

Black Coffee
Water

The Gear

Order of Events!
6:30AM-Pick up

6:40-Ooops, turn around, I forgot my Garmin. Yes, it is my security blanket. Well worth the trip back home.

6:55-Back on the road, headed to MPLS.

7:15-Arrival-drove around, I wasn't ready to get out of the car quite yet.

7:25-Dropped off at the Metrodome, all on my own, no phone..LETS DO THIS!

7:27-Stood in a long line to use the women's bathroom.

7:35-At this point, I asked myself.."be prepared at get in the race line up, or stay warm a bit longer in the Dome?" I chose warmth.

7:42-Ok, I thought, I really should find my way to Corral 2.

7:45-OOh Oh, hot coffee! How could I pass it up? Stood and sipped coffee and water by myself...nice people watching though!

7:48-Yeah...there is really no turning back now! I am in this for the 26.2! To Corral 2...here I come!

7:50-SHOOT! I should have found my corral earlier. I ended up near the back...quite a distance behind the 4:30 pacer group. I found some people who enjoyed pushing their way to the front, and followed their lead until we were atleast closer to the 4:30 group. I really wished to be near the 4:15...but, really, my pace was going to be my pace, and this theory totally held true for me!

8:00-Corral 1 takes off!

8:02-Corral 2 takes off!

about 10 minutes later (or so it felt)-I took off! A slow walk to the start line, and nice jog started the race!

From there, the miles floated on by.

My Mile Memories

Mile 3-Wow! It is sure going to be a HOT one. Time to throw the gloves and peel the long-sleeve shirt off.

Mile 5-Traded Kate for some GU as she took my long-sleeve for me.

Mile 6-Um, I better slow down! I still have 20 miles to go!

Mile 12-I don't think I got enough sleep this week. I am exhausted.

Mile 12.5-Just smile at the crowd and have fun!

Mile 13.1-2 hours in...HALF WAY! Wait, I am ONLY half way!! Ah!

Mile 14.5-Is that guy in the blue shirt in front of me Tim Wilson?? Oh my gosh! It is! TIM TIM! Sorry, I think I scared him! How fun it was to see a familiar face...take it easy, and just do your best!

Mile 14.9?-Familiar faces-Carlyn and Jacob (Tim's family)! Did I just scare them?

Mile 15-BIG hugs for Aunt Gret, Uncle HOW and cousin GABE! MOM, DAD, TOM, and KATE were there too! I love hugs during the marathon!

Mile 16-Ok...Ali, 4 more until 20, then all that is left is an easy 6.2!! You got this!

Mile 16.1-Am I at mile 20 yet? Come'on!

Mile 18-Wow, where did the miles go? Lovin' this! YMCA!

Mile 20-Um...I think I just ran 2 miles in my sleep. I made it, here is mile 20!!! Only 6.2 left!
Mile 21-HILLS...were these here last year?

Mile 22-MOM, DAD, KATE! Yippeee-MORE HUGS!

Mile 23- The next 4 miles felt like eternity. Summit avenue is beautiful...but it really there are far too many blocks! Wait a minute! My Garmin is at 3 hours and 34 minutes...really, I could kick this marathon in the BUTT and totally beat 4:23 from last year! Lets do this!

Mile 24-A familiar face! Amy from Clear Springs standing, searching for her brother-in-law, and ME! I see her, but she doesn't see me! I think I will just run into arms! (And that, I did!)

Mile 25-Ok, I guess the reality is, the faster I run, the faster I am done! Kick it in FULL gear ALI!

Mile 25.8-Mom and Dad again! What a perfect place for them to meet me again!
Mile 26-The state Capital is in view! Here I come finish line!
Mile 26.1-I think I just heard Tom's name being announced! Tom Smouse beat me by a minute! Nice work Tom!
And now, THE END! AH! Why do I feel like crying? So emotional. I held it back just as they placed the metal around my neck...ok, time to sit, lay, stretch, and sleep.
What a run! What a perfect run!

Weird stretch. Weird expression.

My brother and sister were there to cheer!

Mom too!

(Missing my picture of me and my dad...)

4:08...a personal record. I skimmed 15 minutes off of my time from last year.
Final thoughts...I think I am done with marathons for a while.
Yeah, I mean, they really take alot out of you.
JUST KIDDING! I am more hooked than ever!
Now that I made 4:08, of course, I NEED to beat 4 hours!!!
What's next...gotta start training hard for #3...can hardly wait! Zach and I already talked about Chicago next year...but I guess I shouldn't get too ahead of myself.
But until then, recovery is KEY!

I am following this recovery plan, and taking it easy until Thursday. Last night a 90 minute massage felt amazing, and I can already tell on day #2 that I am on my way to healing, and coming back even stronger!
More race caps soon to come...

Thanks for reading, I hope I inspired a few of YOU to find

YOUR happy PACE!

2011-10-02T20:47:00.000-05:00

I did it again!

This time only 15 minutes faster!

My Official time:

4 hours 8 minutes 53 seconds

(my results here)

Yes-a Personal Record for me!

Praise God.

It was the perfect day for a perfect marathon.

To HIM be the Glory!

Detailed race update soon to come.

Until then, ice, compression socks, and lots a rest!

2011-10-01T20:48:00.000-05:00

Let the fun begin!

The Twin Cities Marathon Expo was the best ever!

We planned to stay for two hours at most, it easily turned into three and a half!

Earlier in the morning...

Sister Kate and Mom did this!

TC 5k!

Go Kate Go!! It was so fun running to the finish line next to both of them 2x today. Great mental practice for tomorrow!

Proud Finisher! First 5K of many. Nice work Kate Em!

It was a wonderful morning in St. Paul with my favorite people...and it's not even over yet!

More festivities involving LOTS n LOTS of running tomorrow...good night for now!

2011-10-01T20:31:00.000-05:00

{UPDATE}

The LAST LONG RUNS of a HAPPY Marathoner...

September 10th, 2011

Long Run 20 Miler

Average Pace- 9:40

Mile 1-9:13

Mile 2-9:22

Mile 3-9:49

Mile 4-8:52

Mile 5-9:09

Mile 6- 9:03

Mile 7-9:37

Mile 8-9:26

Mile 9-9:02

Mile 10-9:40

Mile 11-9:55

Mile 12-9:11

Mile 13-9:33

Mile 14-9:23

Mile 15-9:29

Mile 16-9:58

Mile 17-10:10

Mile 18-10:14

Mile 19-10:11

Mile 20-12:00

3 Hours 13 Minutes

Felt great...but mile 20 was a killer!

September 24th, 2011

Last Long FAST RUN before tapering

12 miles

Mile 1-8:42

Mile 2-8:52

Mile 3-8:55

Mile 4-8:57

Mile 5-8:53

Mile 6-9:21

Mile 7-9:14

Mile 8-8:54

Mile 9-9:01

Mile 10-8:27

Mile 11-8:42

Mile 12-8:55

I felt strong, fresh, and totally focused! (I also felt like I could fly! A 8:27 mile-Personal Best!)

I feel strong, healthy, and ready to KICK some BUTT!

26.2...here I come!

2011-10-01T18:48:00.000-05:00

Hi. Friends.

I haven't blogged for nearly a month!

But, so many exciting things have been happening lately. I just NEED to share!

-I officially made it through my first month of the school year...it has been a wonderful year already!

-New year, new habits

-I started attending BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) with some beautiful teacher friends from school...I am learning so much!

-Monday morning prayer with teacher friends has officially started

-House Groups at Renovation Church began this week (so fun. you should probably come)

-I have been running a ton (except for this week, as I have been tapering) because...

- Marathon Sunday is...tomorrow!

-Kate and mom ran the TC Medtronic 5K this morning

-TC Marathon EXPO was today (my fave)!

The greatest news yet, God is Good!

He is present, and I can sense his peace, the Holy Spirit's guidance, and the promise of his never ending love more and more each day.

amen!

2011-09-04T20:26:00.002-05:00

.love love love.

.MN state fair 2011.

2011-09-02T15:25:00.001-05:00

a "banana bread" kind-of-a-day...

2011-09-02T15:12:00.001-05:00

Dresden & Krogis, Germany: Part 2

New friends, new foods, new sights, new sounds.

what a lovely time we had in Germany.

2011-08-29T08:10:00.000-05:00

Krogis,Germany: Part 1

The view from our bedroom window.

The guys I traveled with (Husband-far left, Joe, Collin, John, Josh, & Cindy, not pictured).

The dinning room.

Doors.

More later. Happy Monday.

2011-08-26T06:38:00.001-05:00

Guten Tag!

We arrived home from our 8-day missions trip in Krogis, Germany on Tuesday night, and I finally feel that I am concurring jet lag! {yeah!}

I have missed you dear friends!

Updates from our missions are soon to come, so stay posted!

2011-08-16T01:55:00.001-05:00

Ready set...TRI SPRINT/Race-Caps begin...now!

GO!

Body Markings are fun!

They marked my age, wave & race #

MUSCLE!

It so fun to have my dad, mom & sister there to support me!

Kate was my photographer for the morning! Thanks Kate!

At this point I was feeling a bit nervous about the whole 500 meter 'water thing'. I have to admit that for me, swimming was the weakest part of this race. Not only did I train the least for it (um, maybe 4 times in all...or less), but it was also the sport that I have the most fears about. I practiced some controlled breathing before and during, and made sure my body was adjusted to the water temp. before the race. The water was delightful degree...a warm 76! It actually felt more comfortable to be in the water than out...this was a perk for a non-swimmer like me!

But-in the end, I decided to take the plunge and just do my best. ..even if my best was a combination of the doggy paddle and well, yes, I even incorporated the back stroke into my routine (but-only when I had a few feet of open water in front of me, just to ensure I wouldn't run into/over a fellow racer). Hey-it got me back to shore in mere 12:51. I can't complain about that!

And, even with the sweet 'noodle' volunteers which I intentionally kept within at least a few feet of myself during the swim, I never once stopped to chill on a floating toy! Wahoo!

And then, it was on!

After conquering my biggest fear, the enjoyment of the race began for me!

Transition 1 took me 4 minutes and 4 seconds (too slow). I think I was so relieved to be done with the swim, I just wanted to catch my breathe.

The 15 mile bike ride was next...

I'm that pink dot three bikers ahead (in the pic above). Kate said I spend by too fast for her to snap a picture of me.

There I am, or at least half of me (above right). The bike ride took me 55 minutes. It was a beautiful ride along the Mississippi River, over and under bridges, and through cute neighborhoods. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride!

Transition 2 took me a mere 2 minutes, a much faster transition than my first!

Shoes are on, skirt is next.

Tying the shoes...

and adjusting the glasses and headband. (Notice the blue Star balloon-that's mine. It helped me mark my transition area. It actually really helped!)

Yeah, that's me running towards the start of the 5k (No Zach, I am not running towards the HUGE Biffy) But, I must point out, that's me to the right of the port-a-potty...time to run my heart out!

And, sprinting to the finish line!

5k=26:42

For the first mile my legs were jello...but after that, I felt great! The run was my strongest part of this TRI...but what can I say, I guess I am a runner at heart.

Official Time: 1 hour 42 minutes and 1 second.

Not bad for a first timer.

Weak swimmer.

New road biker.

Runner at heart.

Thank you YWCA for the inspiration and support!

I have a feeling this will not be the last of my TRI Race-Caps.

Stay tuned for more...but until then...I am heading to Germany for 7 days. I will update my blog when I return.

Farewell US of A!

2011-08-16T00:42:00.000-05:00

The Gear...

(How to pack smart & light for a Triathlon)

Swim

-Sports Bra (poor girl style)

-Tri Shorts (thin padding for the bike)

-Goggles

-Swim Cap

-Body Markings serve as race # identification

Bike

-Helmet

-Glasses

-Gloves

-Socks

-Bike Shoes (not shown)

-Shirt-Gu

-Water Bottles (not shown)

-Tire pump (not shown)

-Bike # (for both helmet & bike)

Run

(my favorite part!)

-Running Shoes

-Cute skirt

-Running # pinned in a visible location

Finally, a good dose of mental inspiration and prep does a racer miracles!

I read a few blogger TRI stories here and here...

then I (TRIed) to go to bed early.

I had some race nerves, but usually this means I am ready for the challenge of another race day.

Check out Race Recaps of my FIRST TRI in my next post!

2011-08-12T20:35:00.001-05:00

I am getting prepared mentally for this in 2 days.

...I will complete my first ever Triathlon!

Today was race packet pick-up. The YWCA team also held informational sessions. During this time they reviewed the course, rules, etc. I was able to get a lot of my questions answered, which was a relief.

I also bought some great gear for 20% and 75% off! Sweet!

Tomorrow-my bike will get a tune-up and I will rest.

My nerves are starting, but I am also really excited!

2011-08-12T13:09:00.000-05:00

Theme for the day.

I STILL feel sick. Sore throat and tired.

I am supposed to complete my first TRI in 2 days.

I leave for Germany in 4 days.

I am back teaching in less than a month.

Keep

Calm

and

Carry

on.

2011-08-09T09:50:00.000-05:00

Pretty things today. my favorite coffee cup & bookshelves.

2011-08-06T19:04:00.001-05:00

Wow...I haven't written a book review for months! Sorry...

It's just that finally I don't feel guilty spending time reading books again (now that I am done with my masters paper).

I finished this book while on family vacation Up North in June. I think I read it in about 3 days. It is a quick 288 pager.

I was inspired to read it before seeing the movie ...which looked O so interesting to me.

This novel was a bit unexpected (especially for my style).

I think I would classify it as Sci-Fi (but I don't really know what qualifications are for a novel to be labeled this). Beware of some PG-13 possible R rated material. I was not a fan of these parts (although they were minimal).

Overall, Kazuo Ishiguro (Booker Prize-winning author) magically introduces the reader to characters Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy, friends forever (or so you may think). Their friendship is followed throughout the novel, beginning with childhood memories of their lives spent in a boarding school located in the dreamy English country. Mysteries are revealed throughout the pages of this book as readers sew together mis-matched fabrics of these intriguing characters' thoughts and memories.

Never Let Me Go is a 'page turner' to say the least. It will make you form questions about society, relationships, and ultimately, the purpose of life. I enjoyed Ishiguro's delicate and carefully thought-out words, most of all.

Enjoy...and if nothing else, I highly recommend adding this movie to your Netflix Queue. Enjoy!

2011-08-06T16:27:00.000-05:00

Summer Stuff...3rd and Final upDaTE!

June:

1. RELAX

2. Daily read THE WORD of GOD. Prayer. Bible Memorization. Accountability on SUNDAY mornings (Shout out to M & R!)

3. READ!

4. VACATION UP NORTH with the FAM.

5. START writing my GRAD paper. (outline is complete!)

6. BIKE

7. RUN

8. SWIM!?

9.  Thrift, Sew, create!

July:

1. 10K Excelsior FOURTH of JULY run.

2. CAMP for a week (can hardly wait!)

3. FINISH/Submit ROUGH grad paper.

4. Continue with #1-#3 and #6-#8 from JUNE!

5. Take some state tests for teaching...(blah!)

August:

1. Complete my first Triathlon

2. Continue with #1-#3 and #6-#8

3. Edit/Finish/Submit graduate paper WaHOO!

4. Germany-Missions with Steiger International

5. Prepare for another school year!

 HELLO HELLO!

I finally finished and submitted my rough draft grad paper, just last night.  I feel so much weight lifted off of my shoulders.  I decided to post-pone item #5 of July.  I will take these tests at some point this fall.  I had plenty to accomplish this summer, considering what turned out to be a 20+ grad paper.  This week I spent multiple days at the library as the sun shined outside.

Wow! Event #4 in August is coming up fast (GERMANY) and event #1 is just a week from tomorrow (TRI)...

True confession: I have been slacking on my training.  I have been sick on an off for the past week and I haven't felt healthy enough to beat my body while running, biking, or swimming.  

I will have to play "catch-up" this next week, and  please pray for a miracle when I participate in my first ever TRI (in a week).

Good news though-I did run today...I still felt a little sick...but I think sometimes pushing your body helps it heal faster (I hope this theory holds true).  

Today has been lovely.  

Flea Market. Coffee. Music. Quiet Time. Reading. Husband.

2011-08-01T10:06:00.000-05:00

A new month.

A fresh morning.

A renewed heart.

Lord, may this be the theme for my August:

As I wait "patiently for the Lord;

{and} He turn{s} to me and hear{s} my cry."

As He "lift{s} me out of the slimy pit,

out of the mud and mire,

He set{s} my feet on a rock

and gives me a firm place to stand.

He put a new song in my mouth..."

Psalm 40:3

Amen.

Happy Monday morning to you.

May the peace of God be in your heart today.

2011-07-30T12:38:00.001-05:00

Saturday morning laziness.

oatmeal, strawberries, coffee, blogging.

2011-07-30T12:36:00.000-05:00

Summer Family Vacation Memories

2011-07-30T12:31:00.001-05:00

Monday=Funday {in Pictures}

Happy 3 years of marriage=Sweetness

2011-07-27T17:07:00.001-05:00

my week. lovely fun so far.

pic. 1+2. Monday

pic. 3+4. Tuesday

pic 5. Wednesday

listening to this.

2011-07-22T16:22:00.001-05:00

Firecracker 10K Run: Re-cap

July 4th, 2011

It was the perfect July morning for a run...hot and humid.

Moisture in the air, and frizzy hair.

I woke and stretched.

Ate a piece of toast and sipped some coffee.

Drank 1/2 a gatorade and tied the shoes.

Out the door, 2 blocks down the street, and met these lovely women at the start line (far right...that's me!).

It was a hilly course, but fun none the less.

Here's how I did!

This race has become an annual event for me!

This was my third year running this race...the very first time I ran it was with my friend Jenn back in Middle School.

Last year I ran it too!

Happy running friends!

2011-07-22T16:04:00.001-05:00

Hebrews 12

(from the Message)

Discipline in a long distance race:

Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!

2011-07-19T21:32:00.002-05:00

Today I hung out with this sweet dude...

ate some of these...

and took a yoga class.

source

2011-07-19T21:23:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was filled with minnows, ice cream, sand, & sunshine!

Kate and Tommy and I spent the day with two of the sweetest boys around. Our cute cousins, Bentley & Braxon...

We ~~caught~~ tried to catch minnows (succeeded once), ate hot dogs and ice cream at Tommy's Trolley, jumped off the dock at the Excelsior beach close to 100 times, and laughed alot!

We love you Bentley and Braxon!

Love Ali, Kate, & Tommy.

2011-07-19T17:16:00.005-05:00

Congratulations Layne!

.you are beautiful.

.pink petunias.personalized chocolate grahams. Sweet cousin Layne graduated from high school in June.

Her graduation party was pure loveliness. Just see for yourself...

The Lord says in Jeremiah 29,

"I have it all planned out-plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for. When you call on me, when you come and pray to me, I'll listen. When you come looking for me, you'll find me. Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed..."

.so pretty in pink.

.Layne & Kate. sweet cousins.

.stud of a brother.

.beautiful Auntie Sue...

.the cousins.

.like i said...pure loveliness.

2011-07-19T16:34:00.000-05:00

A crafy friday night @ home.

After waiting in urgent care last Friday afternoon for over 2 hours, and then hearing that the husband had pink eye and a sinus infection, we were forced to cancel plans with friends. Instead, I crafted and produced homemade postcards for Zach to send as thank you notes for birthday presents.

They turned out pretty sweet.

2011-07-17T22:46:00.001-05:00

MollyRachel

Mandy

I need a "count my blessings" post because...

my girlfriends rock!

I have been so immensely blessed by these 3 sweet women in my life.

Thank you Jesus for your blessing me with beautiful Christian women who:

-challenge me

-keep me accountable

-share their hearts

-bring truth to my heart

-love me (no matter what)

-love the LORD

They have helped me grow in my faith in HUGE ways, especially this past year.

I praise you Jesus for each of these women.

Molly.Rachel.&.Mandy.

I love you.

1 John 4:11

My dear, dear friends, if God loved us like this, we certainly ought to love each other. No one has seen God, ever. But if we love one another, God dwells deeply within us, and his love becomes complete within us-perfect love!

2011-07-16T16:20:00.003-05:00

i like cameras.

alot.

2011-07-11T18:55:00.002-05:00

It's about time to share some of my favorite cute kitchens from apartmenttherapy.com

My collection keeps growing and growing. Hope you enjoy!

2011-07-11T16:13:00.001-05:00

Quick picture from my ride this morning.

I completed my first BRICK

BRICK=Bike+Run=ICK!

It felt great!

(I am trying to stay focused on making progress on my grad paper...)

2011-07-09T22:32:00.001-05:00

A sunny, long, and slow run on a Saturday afternoon.

The stats:

total=15 miles

My average pace: 10:05 min/mile

1442 calories burned! (whoop whoop)

mile 1-9:15

mile 2-9:36

mile 3-9:42

mile 4-9:58

mile 5-10:41

mile 6-10:03

(remembered to pace myself)

mile 7-11:07

(too slow)

mile 8-10:05

mile 9-10:05

mile 10-9:44

(lets get this over with!)

mile 11-10:01

mile 12-9:59

mile 13-10:16

mile 14-10:08

(cool down)

mile 15-11:04

A sweet run on a sweet Saturday!

"Let us run with perseverance, the race marked out for us..."

Hebrews 12:1b

2011-07-09T22:23:00.000-05:00

Summer is flying by...

June:

1. RELAX

2. Daily read THE WORD of GOD. Prayer. Bible Memorization. Accountability on SUNDAY mornings (Shout out to M & R!)

3. READ!

4. VACATION UP NORTH with the FAM.

5. START writing my GRAD paper. (outline is complete!)

6. BIKE

7. RUN

8. SWIM!?

9.  Thrift, Sew, create!

July:

1. 10K Excelsior FOURTH of JULY run.

2. CAMP for a week (can hardly wait!)

3. FINISH/Submit ROUGH grad paper.

4. Continue with #1-#3 and #6-#8 from JUNE!

5. Take some state tests for teaching...(blah!)

August:

1. Complete my first Triathlon

2. Continue with #1-#3 and #6-#8

3. Edit/Finish/Submit graduate paper

4. Germany-Missions with Steiger International

5. Prepare for another school year!

*Oops...guess this week is the week to get going on that paper!

2011-07-09T22:14:00.000-05:00

Sweet Summer days @ Camp Shaminuea this past week.

Verse of the week: 2 Corinthians 5:17

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the has gone, the new is here!"

2011-06-30T00:14:00.000-05:00

Wonderfully Made from Wonderfully Made on Vimeo.

Psalm 139

2011-06-29T23:06:00.002-05:00

changes of the heart

(pretty picture from a beautiful journey)

The Lord has been so faithful to me.

Lately Jesus has been revealing himself to my heart in new ways.

The Word of God

"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than a double-edged sword, it penetrates even when dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."

Hebrews 4:12

God has been teaching me more and more about His character and His promises through my reading of the Old Testament. I have struggled and struggled to read this first portion of the Bible. Only through weekly meetings with sweet Godly women (see next paragraph)and a God-given desire to begin a new habit, I have been trudging through these foundational stories of the Bible.

I set a goal back in April to read through the entire Bible in a year. This means I need to read (at minimum) 3 chapters a day. After hearing my Pastor David at Renovation Church preach on the importance of our "Fitness Manual" (The Bible) in the series "God's Gym" (check our sermon video and audios here), God has given me to the desire and discipline to read His Word on a daily basis. Of course, this is easier said then done...which leads me to my next point...

Fellowship

"But encourage one another daily..."

Hebrews 3:13a

The Lord has been showing me the goodness and importance of fellowship in my life. Near the end of May/beginning of June, I started to meet with two God-fearing women one time per week to share prayer requests, recite scripture, check-up on weekly Bible reading goals and habits, and to encourage one another through love and friendship.

Once again, the series at my church, "God's Gym", brought me back to the basics, and this was exactly where I needed to be in order to re-connect with the Lord.

Opportunities

"Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts..." Hebrews 3:7

Following my sweet times of daily scripture reading (I am not perfect, but I try to read daily) and weekly accountability with women, the Lord has been opening my heart to being more and more available for people in my life who might be in need.

Just this week the Lord has gave me three opportunities to share His Love and wisdom with women who are in my life (and it's only Wednesday night!). These beautiful ladies came to me in times of need, all with different challenging circumstances that they were facing. I know that my heart of willingness was not my own, but it was the Lord's spirit at work through me. Praise God.

Giving

"God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end in order to make your hope sure."

Hebrews 6:10-11

One more area. The Lord has given me JOY in giving. I have struggled in this area, and of course, I still do. However, the Lord has been revealing his generosity to my heart, and I am recognizing more and more how gracious he has been to me. I have become more aware of the Lord's desires in my heart to give more of my time, my energy, and my money to better serve Him in efforts to further His kingdom.

Last Notes:

My desires for this blog is not to bring glory or attention to myself. Instead, my goal is to share God's promises of freedom and forgiveness to all who read and view this little creative outlet that I like to call "Retro-Rehab". My prayer is that my life may be a pure reflection to others of Christ's Love and Grace.

"...let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith...And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds."

Hebrews 10:22a and 24

So many thoughts tonight. My prayer is that you may be blessed through reading this post.

Good Night.

2011-06-28T13:16:00.000-05:00

summer stuff.

2011-06-28T13:04:00.001-05:00

pretty things i like.

source

2011-06-16T23:46:00.000-05:00

Fun Summer Days & Nights

(Pic. 1)

Happy Birthday to my dear sister-in-law, Asha!

You are beautiful inside and out! I am so grateful to have you as my sister!

(Pic. 2)

E-man and Bellsie. We had a great day together on Tuesday. I have sweet neighbors and friends who bless me beyond a doubt!

(Pic. 3)

Beauty Asha.

(Pic. 4)

The MAN and me. I am falling more in love with my husband every single day! Tonight we even had "porch time" (a.k.a. grab a drink for some face-to-face 'talk time.' A habit we started on our honeymoon).

On a final note.

I ran a (almost) 10k today for training.

Here were my stats:

mile 1-9:06

mile 2-9:14

mile 3-9:20

mile 4-9:10

mile 5-8:43 (pick it up!)

mile 6-8:39 (pickin' it up even more!)

6 miles in 54:12 (a PR for me!)

Just sayin'-we are more capable of things than we think!

2 miles under 9 minutes. I think I need to challenge my speed some more...

Sweet dreams on this sweet summer night!

2011-06-13T23:39:00.000-05:00

this makes me happy.
i hope you get happy too.

2011-06-13T23:27:00.000-05:00

Mondays ROCK...

...in the SUMMER!
Today I did everything I wanted to do!
It was the ideal summer day.
Somehow I still feel guilty about this.
But, tomorrow I will "work" (nannying is still playing to me!).
My day in pictures (above) and below...

1. I woke up, when I felt like it.

2. I drank my Favorite FRENCH PRESS coffee while I read my Bible.

3. I got a last minute appointment at one of my favorite salons, and had my hair colored! I haven't had my hair colored in over a year. I was trying to grow into a love relationship with my natural color. It just didn't happen. Oh well.

4. I spent a good 40 minutes searching the racks at a thrift store for some new summer trends...

I scored (from left to right):

*Funny Pink Elephant T (OLD NAVY) $0.99

*Plain Gray T (by Charlotte)-$0.99

*Sweet white light weight skirt (OLD NAVY)-$2.99

*White summer sweater/sweatshirt (Free People-my fave!)-$2.99

-Colorful Skirt (kimchi & blue)-$3.99

-Gray quarter length T (Obey)-$2.99

-Light denim capris (Mossimo, Target)-$3.99

Not shown:

small vintage light weight purse-$0.99

vintage black and white shirt-$3.99

vintage long skirt (soon to be altered into a short skirt, stay tuned)-$3.99

I would say I did pretty darn good!

Total-$27.90

5. I made a turkey wrap with lettuce from my very own planted lettuce pot! It was delicious (cheap too!)

5. I went for a 30 mile bike ride!

6. And...don't forget the FRO-YO chocolate chip cookie dough reward at mile 15! Delicious. I love biking to Uptown. The trail is a bikers dream.

7. I even spent some time with my dad and brother...perfect.

Good night.

Tomorrow is my first summer day of nannying my favorite 4th grader. Fun is sure to be around my corner!

2011-06-13T10:45:00.000-05:00

Elsie & Jeremy | May 15th 2011 from Goodwin Films on Vimeo.
p>

Amazingness from Elsie Cakes

2011-06-12T19:05:00.000-05:00

Film photos from this beautiful wonderful weekend...

All week I have been meaning to blog! I actually tried a couple of times, but Blogger was not uploading any of my pictures for some strange reason. A kink in the system. I don't know.

Anyways, it's about time we catch up!

I would love to share some Summer plans/goals with you!

June:

1. RELAX

2. Daily read THE WORD of GOD. Prayer. Bible Memorization. Accountability on SUNDAY mornings (Shout out to M & R!)

3. READ!

4. VACATION UP NORTH with the FAM.

5. START writing my GRAD paper. (outline is complete!)

6. BIKE

7. RUN

8. SWIM!?

9. Thrift, Sew, create!

July:

1. 10K Excelsior FOURTH of JULY run.

2. CAMP for a week (can hardly wait!)

3. FINISH/Submit ROUGH grad paper.

4. Continue with #1-#3 and #6-#8 from JUNE!

5. Take some state tests for teaching...(blah!)

August:

1. Complete my first Triathlon

2. Continue with #1-#3 and #6-#8

3. Edit/Finish/Submit graduate paper

4. Germany-Missions with Steiger International

5. Prepare for another school year!

That's it for now!

My memory verse from last week:

Psalm 18:1-8 (the msg)

"I love you LORD, you MAKE me STRONG!

God is bedrock under my feet,

the castle in which I live,

my rescuing knight.

My God-the high crag where I run for dear life,

hiding behind the boulders,

safe in the granite hideout."

2011-06-06T19:58:00.002-05:00

<a href="http://zachfoty.bandcamp.com/track/aprils-jacket">April's Jacket by Zach Foty</a>

Check out my husband's sweet sounds. He has been inspired by the dreamy feels of Chillwave music. If you are searching for that "sleep on the beach" and "dream by sea" type of feel, this is the sound for you. He inspires me to create a little further, try a little harder, dream a little bigger, and chill even longer. I hope these sweet sounds transport you to summers on the beach, or vacations near the waves. Either way, spread out a blanket, toss off your sandals, and dig your toes in the sand. Summer has arrived!