August 09, 2009
Morsel of Meaning
This Thursday is the last meeting for my girls and their weekly running group Kids in Motion, a program offered through Moms in Motion. They call their team the Green Frogs. They have had guest speakers each week and Coach Melody has asked me to come and talk to the girls at the end of the session.
I have given speeches countless times but for some reason this one makes me more nervous than usual. It reminds me of when I spoke to the first-grade classes about creative writing and had cocoon-popping butterflies in my stomach with so many pairs of 7-year-old eyes on me. Children have an uncanny way of seeing right through you, so you'd better be clear: Say what you mean and mean what you say. The audience, particularly my daughters sitting in it, combined with the subject matter being a topic in a ZIP code very close to the neighborhood of my heart, makes it highly personal. Gulp.
How do I properly tell a group of 7-and 8-year-old girls what running means to me? How do I express in language that will resonate with them how running kept me together when everything else seemed to be falling apart? Or how it keeps me sane and clear headed, and creates a pocket of silence in my core that no level of noise or chaos can touch for the remainder of the day? Or how it gives me an identity and a community that I wouldn't have otherwise? Or how it saved me twice from post-partum spiral? Or how it can alter my mood from sour to sweet, resetting my gratitude meter, in a mere 30 minutes? Or how it reminds me that I'm beautiful even when I feel nothing close to cute? Or how it reminds me that I'm strong and resilient, even at my puniest? Or how it cultivates a foundation and awareness of endurance that far exceeds the mere physical? Or how it has become a standing date with my girlfriends, scheduled, reliable, and heaven-sent? Or how it is a proven method to transcend cattiness, PMS, mood swings, and body image issues?
Like sitting on an over-packed suitcase and trying to pull the zipper, it may be impossible to translate something so big to fit into 20 minutes, or condense 30 years of experience into a bite-sized 7-year-old morsel. But even if they take one thing -- one single thing, away that lodges into a crack and sticks there -- it will be more than enough for me.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Bolder Boulder
The air is warm, flip flops, & BBQ's it's time for summer. When I think of kicking off the summer I think of the BB! It's one of the most fun races ever! Its only a 10k, and I love 10k's. It is the perfect length for a race in my opinion. Not too long not too short. You are surrounded by a ton of spectators and there is a huge number of participants. It's the only race I've ran where spectators are handing out free beer! It is also significant b/c my husband proposed to me at the finish line last year!!!!! It will be fun to run it together this year as husband & wife.
Look soon for pictures!
Look soon for pictures!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
A little somethin' somthin' from Hudson
I really want this blog to be ours,Team Soma! A place where we can share our thoughts, our encouragement and our struggles together. So please feel welcome to make your very own post. Here is a recent post from Hudson! She just finished the Colfax marathon with an incredible time of 2:03!!!! Way to go girl!!!!! I hope you will send us pictures soon! :0)
From Hudson....
I did it! I just ran my third half marathon! What a great feeling it is to cross that finish line and hear people cheering you on. But the road to that finish line is not always easy. Some days it seems impossible to run one mile, other days I feel like I am ready for the Boston Marathon. To anyone who thinks they can not do it, they can! When Jessie first came to me a few years ago and told me I should run 13.1 miles with her, I thought she was nuts! I could not even run one mile without walking, but we did it! And last weekend I shaved almost 30 minutes off my last half time!
I love runners! We are such an interesting breed. We put ourselves through massive amounts of pain and torture for what? The accomplishment and satisfaction of finishing a race , to lose weight, or just for the fun of it. We are so supportive of each other. I have had complete strangers high five me on a trail or tell me good job after running next to me on a treadmill. I love runners! No matter how hard a run or race was we always go back. It might take a few days to recover but we always have our next run in mind. Don’t ever forget “we run because we can!”
From Hudson....
I did it! I just ran my third half marathon! What a great feeling it is to cross that finish line and hear people cheering you on. But the road to that finish line is not always easy. Some days it seems impossible to run one mile, other days I feel like I am ready for the Boston Marathon. To anyone who thinks they can not do it, they can! When Jessie first came to me a few years ago and told me I should run 13.1 miles with her, I thought she was nuts! I could not even run one mile without walking, but we did it! And last weekend I shaved almost 30 minutes off my last half time!
I love runners! We are such an interesting breed. We put ourselves through massive amounts of pain and torture for what? The accomplishment and satisfaction of finishing a race , to lose weight, or just for the fun of it. We are so supportive of each other. I have had complete strangers high five me on a trail or tell me good job after running next to me on a treadmill. I love runners! No matter how hard a run or race was we always go back. It might take a few days to recover but we always have our next run in mind. Don’t ever forget “we run because we can!”
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Friday, May 8, 2009
Soma Shout Out
WE DID IT! 13.1 Miles baby! Way to go ladies. I'm impressed & motivated by each of you!
Lacey~ Way to rock it with an amazing time! You were so dedicated in your training, and even ran through your injury. You are inspiring.
Sarah~ Way to go Stellar Zeller! She completed her first half marathon EVER! Way to set a goal and really go after it Sarah!
Bri~ Your story is motivational in itself Bri! Thank you for encourage us and reminding me that "I run because I can."
Jess G.~ If it weren't for you I never would have picked up a pair of running shoes. Thanks for believing in me. I be live in you and I'm so proud of you and all your accomplishments. You really are great! Marathon Mom!
Jess H. ~ Thanks for being the best super fan! It was so fun to see you and Chris along the way & you had the best sign ever! " Run fast - There is beer at the end!!!!
Way to go Team Soma! You are amazing in so many ways!!!!!
Lacey~ Way to rock it with an amazing time! You were so dedicated in your training, and even ran through your injury. You are inspiring.
Sarah~ Way to go Stellar Zeller! She completed her first half marathon EVER! Way to set a goal and really go after it Sarah!
Bri~ Your story is motivational in itself Bri! Thank you for encourage us and reminding me that "I run because I can."
Jess G.~ If it weren't for you I never would have picked up a pair of running shoes. Thanks for believing in me. I be live in you and I'm so proud of you and all your accomplishments. You really are great! Marathon Mom!
Jess H. ~ Thanks for being the best super fan! It was so fun to see you and Chris along the way & you had the best sign ever! " Run fast - There is beer at the end!!!!
Way to go Team Soma! You are amazing in so many ways!!!!!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Body Image & Runners - Nancy Clark
I recently read this article & I think there may be a lot of truth to it. Let me know what you think.... I haven't been able to look at the recomended links, but they sound interesting. Happy running friends!
~j
The Athlete’s Kitchen: Body Image and Runners
Submitted by admin on January 5, 2009 - 8:11am.
Date: 01/05/2009 - 07:06
January 2009 by Nancy Clark MS RD CSSD -
Question: What are two things dogs and runners have in common? Answer: One, both dogs and runners love to exercise. Two, they both come in different sizes and shapes. Question: What is one thing dogs and runners do NOT have in common? Answer: Dogs are content with their natural physiques, while too many runners try very hard to change the way they look. These runners might be better off being like dogs. That is, does that bulky St. Bernard yearn to look like a lanky Greyhound? Heavens, no! Does the barrel-chested Labrador want to look like a sleek Setter? Doubtful. Each dog is very proud to represent his breed. Wouldn’t life be easier if each runner could be just as proud of his or her “breed”? As a sports dietitian, I spend too many hours helping runners find peace with their bodies. Most of these runners take the outside-in approach.They think if they change their body from the outside by losing undesired body fat or by adding some muscular bulk, they will be happier on the inside. Unfortunately, not true! No weight will ever be good enough to do the enormous job of creating happiness. This story, told to me by an athlete, proves that point: “I once weighed 124 pounds and was unhappy with that weight. I started exercising and dieting rigidly. I lost to 99 pounds but I still wasn't happy. I ended up binge-eating; I gained to 160 pounds, where I was miserable. I sought help from a counselor, stopped eating emotionally, and with time, got my weight back to 124—and was happy! Why couldn't I have been happy at 124 pounds in the first place? Because happiness has nothing to do with weight...”
Granted, some people do have excess body fat they can appropriately lose to be healthier as a person and lighter as an runner. They can rightfully feel pleased when they accomplish the goal of attaining an appropriate weight. But other runners just think they have excess fat to lose; they have distorted body images. A survey of 425 collegiate female athletes reports the women wanted to lose 5 pounds, on average (1). Another survey of the top women runners in the country found the same results (2). Even these elite runners wistfully believed they would perform better if they are leaner. Unfortunately, the struggle to attain a “perfect weight” can cost runners their health and happiness. Restrictive diets with inadequate protein, iron, zinc, calcium and a myriad of other health-protective nutrients—to say nothing of carbs for fuel—often contribute to injuries and poorer performance. So what can you do if you are discontent with your body? First of all, you should get your body fat measured to determine if you actually have excess fat to lose. Data can be helpful. (Find a local sports dietitian to measure your body fat via the referral network at SCANdpg.org.) You may discover you have less body fat than expected!
Feeling fatIt’s easy to understand why so many runners have distorted body images. When you put on skimpy running shorts that expose your “flabby things”, or tights that shows every bump and bulge, you can very easily “feel fat.” Sound familiar? One solution to the “I feel fat syndrome” is to remember “fat” is not a feeling. That is, you don't feel “blond hair” or “freckled.” You also do not feel “fat.” Yes, you may be feeling uncomfortable with your body. But you are really feeling imperfect, inadequate, insecure, anxious—and any number of other feelings that get described as “feeling fat.” I encourage your to explore those real feelings, and figure out where you got the message that something is wrong with your body. The media is a good start, but it could also be a parent who lovingly said at a tender age “That outfit looks nice, honey, but if only you'd lose a few pounds...” What you hear is “I'm not good enough” and this can create a downward spiral of self-esteem. Weight issues are rarely about weight. They tend to be about feeling inadequate and imperfect.
What to doSo how can a discontent runner feel better about his or her body? One tactic is to stop comparing yourself to your peers. To compare is to despair. Rather, pretend you live on an island where your body is “good enough” the way it is. (You are unlikely to ever have a “perfect” body, so the second best option is to enjoy a body that is “good enough.”) If you step off your island and start comparing yourself to your peers, please notice: Do you end up being too fat, too slow, too ugly, too dumb? Do you ever let yourself rise to the top and be better than others? Doubtful. You are better off staying on your island, and calling yourself a Gorgeous Goddess or Handsome Hulk. With time and practice, you can change the way you see yourself and come to believe perhaps you are, indeed, good enough the way you are! Granted, changing the way you feel about your body is a complex process.
The following resources can help you in this journey to find peace with your body:www.nourishingconnections.com (free e-newsletter)www.findingbalance.com (has videos about resolving weight issues)www.adiosBarbie.com (offers resources, and insights into the media)For a plethora of books, visit the online bookshelf at www.gurze.com.Some of my favorites include The Body Image Workbook and The Don’t Diet, Live-It Workbook.
Life is more enjoyable when you can love your body and appreciate it for all it does and stop hating it for what it is not. When the drive for thinness comes with a high price, that price is unlikley worth the cost.
Nancy Clark, MS, RD, CSSD (Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics) counsels both casual and competitive athletes in her practice at Healthworks, the premier fitness center in Chestnut Hill MA (617-383-6100). Her NEW 2008 Sports Nutrition Guidebook, Food Guide for Marathoners, and Cyclist’s Food Guide are available viawww.nancyclarkrd.com. See also sportsnutritionworkshop.com.
References:1. Beals K and M Manore. Disorders of the female athlete triad among collegiate athletes. Int'l J Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism. 2002. 12:281-293
2. Clark N, M Nelson, W Evans. Nutrition educational for elite female runners. Physician and Sports Medicine. 1988. 16:124-135
~j
The Athlete’s Kitchen: Body Image and Runners
Submitted by admin on January 5, 2009 - 8:11am.
Date: 01/05/2009 - 07:06
January 2009 by Nancy Clark MS RD CSSD -
Question: What are two things dogs and runners have in common? Answer: One, both dogs and runners love to exercise. Two, they both come in different sizes and shapes. Question: What is one thing dogs and runners do NOT have in common? Answer: Dogs are content with their natural physiques, while too many runners try very hard to change the way they look. These runners might be better off being like dogs. That is, does that bulky St. Bernard yearn to look like a lanky Greyhound? Heavens, no! Does the barrel-chested Labrador want to look like a sleek Setter? Doubtful. Each dog is very proud to represent his breed. Wouldn’t life be easier if each runner could be just as proud of his or her “breed”? As a sports dietitian, I spend too many hours helping runners find peace with their bodies. Most of these runners take the outside-in approach.They think if they change their body from the outside by losing undesired body fat or by adding some muscular bulk, they will be happier on the inside. Unfortunately, not true! No weight will ever be good enough to do the enormous job of creating happiness. This story, told to me by an athlete, proves that point: “I once weighed 124 pounds and was unhappy with that weight. I started exercising and dieting rigidly. I lost to 99 pounds but I still wasn't happy. I ended up binge-eating; I gained to 160 pounds, where I was miserable. I sought help from a counselor, stopped eating emotionally, and with time, got my weight back to 124—and was happy! Why couldn't I have been happy at 124 pounds in the first place? Because happiness has nothing to do with weight...”
Granted, some people do have excess body fat they can appropriately lose to be healthier as a person and lighter as an runner. They can rightfully feel pleased when they accomplish the goal of attaining an appropriate weight. But other runners just think they have excess fat to lose; they have distorted body images. A survey of 425 collegiate female athletes reports the women wanted to lose 5 pounds, on average (1). Another survey of the top women runners in the country found the same results (2). Even these elite runners wistfully believed they would perform better if they are leaner. Unfortunately, the struggle to attain a “perfect weight” can cost runners their health and happiness. Restrictive diets with inadequate protein, iron, zinc, calcium and a myriad of other health-protective nutrients—to say nothing of carbs for fuel—often contribute to injuries and poorer performance. So what can you do if you are discontent with your body? First of all, you should get your body fat measured to determine if you actually have excess fat to lose. Data can be helpful. (Find a local sports dietitian to measure your body fat via the referral network at SCANdpg.org.) You may discover you have less body fat than expected!
Feeling fatIt’s easy to understand why so many runners have distorted body images. When you put on skimpy running shorts that expose your “flabby things”, or tights that shows every bump and bulge, you can very easily “feel fat.” Sound familiar? One solution to the “I feel fat syndrome” is to remember “fat” is not a feeling. That is, you don't feel “blond hair” or “freckled.” You also do not feel “fat.” Yes, you may be feeling uncomfortable with your body. But you are really feeling imperfect, inadequate, insecure, anxious—and any number of other feelings that get described as “feeling fat.” I encourage your to explore those real feelings, and figure out where you got the message that something is wrong with your body. The media is a good start, but it could also be a parent who lovingly said at a tender age “That outfit looks nice, honey, but if only you'd lose a few pounds...” What you hear is “I'm not good enough” and this can create a downward spiral of self-esteem. Weight issues are rarely about weight. They tend to be about feeling inadequate and imperfect.
What to doSo how can a discontent runner feel better about his or her body? One tactic is to stop comparing yourself to your peers. To compare is to despair. Rather, pretend you live on an island where your body is “good enough” the way it is. (You are unlikely to ever have a “perfect” body, so the second best option is to enjoy a body that is “good enough.”) If you step off your island and start comparing yourself to your peers, please notice: Do you end up being too fat, too slow, too ugly, too dumb? Do you ever let yourself rise to the top and be better than others? Doubtful. You are better off staying on your island, and calling yourself a Gorgeous Goddess or Handsome Hulk. With time and practice, you can change the way you see yourself and come to believe perhaps you are, indeed, good enough the way you are! Granted, changing the way you feel about your body is a complex process.
The following resources can help you in this journey to find peace with your body:www.nourishingconnections.com (free e-newsletter)www.findingbalance.com (has videos about resolving weight issues)www.adiosBarbie.com (offers resources, and insights into the media)For a plethora of books, visit the online bookshelf at www.gurze.com.Some of my favorites include The Body Image Workbook and The Don’t Diet, Live-It Workbook.
Life is more enjoyable when you can love your body and appreciate it for all it does and stop hating it for what it is not. When the drive for thinness comes with a high price, that price is unlikley worth the cost.
Nancy Clark, MS, RD, CSSD (Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics) counsels both casual and competitive athletes in her practice at Healthworks, the premier fitness center in Chestnut Hill MA (617-383-6100). Her NEW 2008 Sports Nutrition Guidebook, Food Guide for Marathoners, and Cyclist’s Food Guide are available viawww.nancyclarkrd.com. See also sportsnutritionworkshop.com.
References:1. Beals K and M Manore. Disorders of the female athlete triad among collegiate athletes. Int'l J Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism. 2002. 12:281-293
2. Clark N, M Nelson, W Evans. Nutrition educational for elite female runners. Physician and Sports Medicine. 1988. 16:124-135
Friday, April 3, 2009
Defeated
This is my fourth long distance race, I and feel more defeated today than when I took my first steps to run nearly 3 years ago. Why isn’t running what it once was for me? It was a time for me to sort out my thoughts, hang out with God, focus on me, and work hard to be healthy. Now, I have zero motivation. I go to the gym and see the skinny girl next to me running at 8.5 and feel instant defeat. Since this is my fourth race shouldn’t be a cake walk? Shouldn’t I be in shape and prepared? Shouldn’t I know better than to compare myself to the skinny girl next to me on the treadmill? What is my problem?
I’m going to work on making running what it was to me. I’m going to go back to the basics. Praying before I start, praying while I’m running. Repeating “it’s only one foot in front of the other.”
I’m going to work on making running what it was to me. I’m going to go back to the basics. Praying before I start, praying while I’m running. Repeating “it’s only one foot in front of the other.”
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Inspiration from my niece
I had dinner with my niece last week. She is a beautiful young lady and will be 12 in May. I had so much fun with her. I am so grateful that my middle school days are over. You couldn’t pay me enough to go through that again. I guess I forgot all about the middle school drama girls put girls through. I’m so proud of her mature response to the drama though. She stands up for herself and doesn’t cower to them.
She told me that she is in a running club and school and that she is running a 5K in May on her birthday. I was so excited when she told me she was running. Then she told me a little bit more about her club. Before practice her coach gives the girls an exercise on the “tough stuff.” You know body image, self esteem and loving your body. Then they coach the girls to get in the “girl box” and just talk about girl stuff and their feelings.After hearing this I was even more excited. What a great idea!
Then she told me they will go and run on the track. She said she always runs with her friend. She said that she loves running with her because sometimes Kari is ahead of her and cheers her on. But then at other times Shelby is ahead and cheering Kari on to just keep going, chanting “you can do it.”
Shelby told me about their last practice, and that every time they ran a lap they had to tell the coaches something that they appreciated about their body. What a great idea this is! Good for her coaches to put a program together that promotes a healthy lifetstly and encourages good self esteem. I’m so pleased that my niece is in this great program.
It got me to thinking… Our Body image issues and low self esteem start so early in life. It is frustrating that I still struggle with it as an adult! So I’m going to challenge you with an elementary thought today. What is it you appreciate about your body?
I really like my long legs. Sometimes they get in the way, and I can be pretty clumsy, but I do think they are strong and sort of toned. After all, they have to carry me for 13.1 miles.
Happy running friends!
She told me that she is in a running club and school and that she is running a 5K in May on her birthday. I was so excited when she told me she was running. Then she told me a little bit more about her club. Before practice her coach gives the girls an exercise on the “tough stuff.” You know body image, self esteem and loving your body. Then they coach the girls to get in the “girl box” and just talk about girl stuff and their feelings.After hearing this I was even more excited. What a great idea!
Then she told me they will go and run on the track. She said she always runs with her friend. She said that she loves running with her because sometimes Kari is ahead of her and cheers her on. But then at other times Shelby is ahead and cheering Kari on to just keep going, chanting “you can do it.”
Shelby told me about their last practice, and that every time they ran a lap they had to tell the coaches something that they appreciated about their body. What a great idea this is! Good for her coaches to put a program together that promotes a healthy lifetstly and encourages good self esteem. I’m so pleased that my niece is in this great program.
It got me to thinking… Our Body image issues and low self esteem start so early in life. It is frustrating that I still struggle with it as an adult! So I’m going to challenge you with an elementary thought today. What is it you appreciate about your body?
I really like my long legs. Sometimes they get in the way, and I can be pretty clumsy, but I do think they are strong and sort of toned. After all, they have to carry me for 13.1 miles.
Happy running friends!
Monday, March 30, 2009
April
I wanted to remind you that our next group run in this Saturday. We are scheduled to run 8 miles! YIKES! I hope the weather holds up for us. I was thinking of meeting at Rolland Moore Park and running on Spring Creek Trail West. It is a nice trial and a more central location. Then it’s back to my house for breakfast and mimosas. Please let me know if you can make it.
I’m still trying to coordinate a time to volunteer with One World Running. It will require that we leave Fort Collins around 7am on a Saturday or Sunday. I would like to go down on Saturday the 18th. Please let me know if anyone is interested in volunteering for this amazing cause. I would like to get a head count so she knows how many people to count on.
I’m still trying to coordinate a time to volunteer with One World Running. It will require that we leave Fort Collins around 7am on a Saturday or Sunday. I would like to go down on Saturday the 18th. Please let me know if anyone is interested in volunteering for this amazing cause. I would like to get a head count so she knows how many people to count on.
Friday, February 27, 2009
March Events
I hope everyone is doing well. I just wanted to remind you that our next training run is NEXT Saturday, March 7th! For those of you training for the half we will be running 6 miles, if you don’t want to run 6 you may run 3 miles and start 30 minutes after the 6 milers (9:30am). We are going to run on the Spring Creek trail starting at the Fort Collins Club. The trail is on the south side of the parking lot & is hard to miss. We will run east on the trail. We should all finish around 10-10:15. Then we can go back to my house for FREE breakfast and mimosas! If you would like to car pool & are running 6 miles please be at my house by 8:30. Please let me know if you will be participating and how many miles you will be running so I don’t leave anyone behind.
I also spoke with Ana from One World Running www.oneworldrunning.com, I have arranged for our running club to volunteer on Saturday, March 14th in Boulder. She would like us to be there around 8am and help her wash & pack shoes. She said she likes to get to the laundry mat early b/c it fills up quickly. I understand that you may not be able to commit to 2 weekends back to month, but if you are available I would love to have your help. If you are unable to participate but would still like to contribute you may also make a monetary donation at the site listed above. We can plan on leaving from my house at 7am. Please let me know if you are interested no later than March 11th. Thanks running buddies!
March 7th 8:30am Meet at my house to carpool
9am 6 mile run beings starting at Fort Collins Club
9:30 3 milers begin run
10:30 Free Mimosas & breakfast at my house :0)
March 14th 7am Meet at my house to volunteer for One World Running
March 15th 8:30 Sharing ‘O’ The Green 5K – Proceeds go to Partners
Mentoring Youth
http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1656518&assetId=3468f54f-6f36-47a7-8285-a58e284825cf
I also spoke with Ana from One World Running www.oneworldrunning.com, I have arranged for our running club to volunteer on Saturday, March 14th in Boulder. She would like us to be there around 8am and help her wash & pack shoes. She said she likes to get to the laundry mat early b/c it fills up quickly. I understand that you may not be able to commit to 2 weekends back to month, but if you are available I would love to have your help. If you are unable to participate but would still like to contribute you may also make a monetary donation at the site listed above. We can plan on leaving from my house at 7am. Please let me know if you are interested no later than March 11th. Thanks running buddies!
March 7th 8:30am Meet at my house to carpool
9am 6 mile run beings starting at Fort Collins Club
9:30 3 milers begin run
10:30 Free Mimosas & breakfast at my house :0)
March 14th 7am Meet at my house to volunteer for One World Running
March 15th 8:30 Sharing ‘O’ The Green 5K – Proceeds go to Partners
Mentoring Youth
http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1656518&assetId=3468f54f-6f36-47a7-8285-a58e284825cf
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Free Training Run at Budweiser
Hi Ladies, The first training run at Budweiser is THIS SUNDAY at 7:45. It's a 6 mile run. If anyone is intrested please let me know!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Loveland Sweetheart Classic 4 Mile Race
Who: Club Soma
What: Loveland Sweetheart Classic 4 Mile Race
Where: The Budweiser Event Center/Ranch
When: Valentines day 2/14/09 9am
Why: Because we have to run 4 miles that day anyway, it's only $20, you get a longsleeved shirt, and b/c you want to hang out with your girlfriends on Valentines day.
Here is the site if you want to participate
http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1669871&assetId=b61e5409-57cf-4303-8759-8f479dc6de66
Hope to see you there!!!!!
Happy running!
What: Loveland Sweetheart Classic 4 Mile Race
Where: The Budweiser Event Center/Ranch
When: Valentines day 2/14/09 9am
Why: Because we have to run 4 miles that day anyway, it's only $20, you get a longsleeved shirt, and b/c you want to hang out with your girlfriends on Valentines day.
Here is the site if you want to participate
http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1669871&assetId=b61e5409-57cf-4303-8759-8f479dc6de66
Hope to see you there!!!!!
Happy running!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Boyd Lake!
Hi Ladies! I’m sorry I’ve been a little scattered this week. We moved this weekend & so I’m feeling a little unorganized.
I’m so excited for mimosas tomorrow, I mean the group run! :0) We are still planning on Boyd Lake. If anyone is interested in carpooling please be at my house by 8:30am. There is a fee of $7 to park so carpooling will probably be a good option… Please contact me to confirm that you will be participating. I don’t want to leave anyone behind. I’m so excited to get this started! Thanks for joining me.
I’m so excited for mimosas tomorrow, I mean the group run! :0) We are still planning on Boyd Lake. If anyone is interested in carpooling please be at my house by 8:30am. There is a fee of $7 to park so carpooling will probably be a good option… Please contact me to confirm that you will be participating. I don’t want to leave anyone behind. I’m so excited to get this started! Thanks for joining me.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Pretty Strong By Kristin Armstrong
I love reading Kristin Armstrong's blog. This post is one of my favorites. I hope you enjoy it.
PRETTY STRONG
Feeling comfortable in our skin isn't always easy. Running helps.By Kristin Armstrong
PUBLISHED 07/02/2007
A few months ago on a school morning, as I attempted to etch a straight midline part on the back of my wiggling daughter's soon-to-be-ponytailed blond head, I reminded her that it was chilly outside and she needed to grab a sweater."No, mama.""Excuse me?""No, I don't want to wear that sweater, it makes me look fat.""What?!" My comb clattered to the bathroom floor. "Fat?! What do you know about fat? You're 5 years old! You are definitely not fat. God made you just right. Now get your sweater."She scampered off, and I wearily leaned against the counter and let out a long, sad sigh. It has begun. I thought I had a few more years before my twin daughters picked up the modern day f-word. I have admittedly had my own seasons of unwarranted, psychotic Slim-Fasting and have looked erroneously to the scale to give me a measurement of myself. But these departures from my character were in my 20s, before the balancing hand of motherhood met the grounding grip of running. Once I learned what it meant to push myself, I lost all taste for depriving myself. I want to grow into more of a woman, not find ways to whittle myself down to less.The way I see it, the only way to run counter to our toxic image-centric society is to literally run by example. I can't tell my daughters that beauty is an incidental side effect of living your passion rather than an adherence to socially prescribed standards. I can't tell my son how to recognize and appreciate this kind of beauty in a woman. I have to show them, over and over again, mile after mile, until they feel the power of their own legs beneath them and catch the rhythm of their own strides.Which is why my parents wake my kids early on race-day mornings. It matters to me that my children see me out there, slogging through difficult miles. I want my girls to grow up recognizing the beauty of strength, the exuberance of endurance, and the core confidence residing in a well-tended body and spirit. I want them to be more interested in what they are doing than how they look doing it. I want them to enjoy food that is delicious, feed their bodies with wisdom and intent, and give themselves the freedom to indulge. I want them to compete in healthy ways that honor the cultivation of skill, the expenditure of effort, and the courage of the attempt.Grace and Bella, will you have any idea how lovely you are when you try? Recently we ran the Chuy's Hot to Trot Kids K together as a family in Austin, and I ran the 5-K immediately afterward. Post-race, my kids asked me where my medal was. I explained that not everyone gets a medal, so they must have run really well (all kids got a medal, shhh!). As I picked up Grace, she said, "You are so sweaty Mommy, all wet." Luke smiled and said, "Mommy's sweaty 'cause she's fast. And she looks pretty. All clean." My PRs will never garner attention or generate awards. But when I run, I am 100 percent me--my strengths and weaknesses play out like a cracked-open diary, my emotions often as raw as the chafing from my jog bra. In my ultimate moments of vulnerability, I am twice the woman I was when I thought I was meant to look pretty on the sidelines. Sweaty and smiling, breathless and beautiful: Running helps us all shine. A lesson worth passing along.
PRETTY STRONG
Feeling comfortable in our skin isn't always easy. Running helps.By Kristin Armstrong
PUBLISHED 07/02/2007
A few months ago on a school morning, as I attempted to etch a straight midline part on the back of my wiggling daughter's soon-to-be-ponytailed blond head, I reminded her that it was chilly outside and she needed to grab a sweater."No, mama.""Excuse me?""No, I don't want to wear that sweater, it makes me look fat.""What?!" My comb clattered to the bathroom floor. "Fat?! What do you know about fat? You're 5 years old! You are definitely not fat. God made you just right. Now get your sweater."She scampered off, and I wearily leaned against the counter and let out a long, sad sigh. It has begun. I thought I had a few more years before my twin daughters picked up the modern day f-word. I have admittedly had my own seasons of unwarranted, psychotic Slim-Fasting and have looked erroneously to the scale to give me a measurement of myself. But these departures from my character were in my 20s, before the balancing hand of motherhood met the grounding grip of running. Once I learned what it meant to push myself, I lost all taste for depriving myself. I want to grow into more of a woman, not find ways to whittle myself down to less.The way I see it, the only way to run counter to our toxic image-centric society is to literally run by example. I can't tell my daughters that beauty is an incidental side effect of living your passion rather than an adherence to socially prescribed standards. I can't tell my son how to recognize and appreciate this kind of beauty in a woman. I have to show them, over and over again, mile after mile, until they feel the power of their own legs beneath them and catch the rhythm of their own strides.Which is why my parents wake my kids early on race-day mornings. It matters to me that my children see me out there, slogging through difficult miles. I want my girls to grow up recognizing the beauty of strength, the exuberance of endurance, and the core confidence residing in a well-tended body and spirit. I want them to be more interested in what they are doing than how they look doing it. I want them to enjoy food that is delicious, feed their bodies with wisdom and intent, and give themselves the freedom to indulge. I want them to compete in healthy ways that honor the cultivation of skill, the expenditure of effort, and the courage of the attempt.Grace and Bella, will you have any idea how lovely you are when you try? Recently we ran the Chuy's Hot to Trot Kids K together as a family in Austin, and I ran the 5-K immediately afterward. Post-race, my kids asked me where my medal was. I explained that not everyone gets a medal, so they must have run really well (all kids got a medal, shhh!). As I picked up Grace, she said, "You are so sweaty Mommy, all wet." Luke smiled and said, "Mommy's sweaty 'cause she's fast. And she looks pretty. All clean." My PRs will never garner attention or generate awards. But when I run, I am 100 percent me--my strengths and weaknesses play out like a cracked-open diary, my emotions often as raw as the chafing from my jog bra. In my ultimate moments of vulnerability, I am twice the woman I was when I thought I was meant to look pretty on the sidelines. Sweaty and smiling, breathless and beautiful: Running helps us all shine. A lesson worth passing along.
My Heart...
As many of you know I have struggled most of my adult years with depression and body image issues. Although I have overcome most of my demons, they continue to haunt me. However, I find that I’m the most confident and alive when I am running. When I'm running I feel at peace with myself and my God. It is in those times when I’m running that I can take out all my frustrations of the day on the pavement beneath my feet. I can have the best conversations with God and thank Him for the beauty in this world. I am able to thank Him for the river that runs next to me, for the fawn that just crossed in front of me, for the birds above me, for the sunrise and the sunset. I also thank Him for the company of my running buddies who inspire me and encourage me to just keep running.
I remember when I first started running especially that first day on the treadmill when I couldn't even run fifteen minutes. I would walk 5 min, jog 5 min, walk 5 min, and jog 5 min. I remember struggling. I remember the side aches, my heart beating fast, and the way my chest felt tight. It took everything in me to keep going. But in that moment when I was overweight, unhealthy, depressed, and broken; I had a moment with God. I remember asking God for help. I asked that he would help me get through that grueling 30 minutes. I told Him that if he could just help me get through it, I knew I could serve Him better. I knew if I felt better about myself I would be able to serve him more graciously. Maybe if I felt better about myself, I wouldn't stay locked up in my apartment too embarrassed by the "muffin top" over my jeans or my tight fitting clothes.
God helped me get through that run and God helped me get through a true 30 min run without walking, later 45 min, 60 min, and then 2 :29 minutes when I ran my first half marathon. I will never forget the feeling of accomplishment I felt that day.
Running has improved my relationship with God. Running has inspired me. Running has made my body healthier. Running clears my mind. Running helps my depression. Running forces me to do something for me. Running has inspired me to do something for others who may be in similar situation as I was/am. Running has inspired to reach out to those women who want to do something for themselves for once, for those who want to set a goal, and for those who want to establish friendship and community with other runners.
My heart is to start a running club. The details are blurry but my vision is not! My vision is to have a group of women running together, supporting each other, and cheering one another on to get through that first 30 minutes together while sharing in tears, laughter & sweat. My vision is to embrace each other’s goals and learn from each other while having community together, eating, stretching, and recovering together. Lastly, my idea also includes serving and donating our time or our money to an organization to help the less fortunate in our community and in our world.
I'm inviting you to be a part of my running club. I can commit to 1-2 runs per month as a group. I will pick a location to meet at and we will run together cheering each other on. We will finish our run, feel proud, and celebrate with food and drinks at my house. I will choose a charity and if you feel compelled to, you may donate monetary funds to that charity or donate our time volunteering. I have listed a links below of an organization that I have been in contact with.
Running has changed my life and I hope I can encourage you to help it change yours as well.
I remember when I first started running especially that first day on the treadmill when I couldn't even run fifteen minutes. I would walk 5 min, jog 5 min, walk 5 min, and jog 5 min. I remember struggling. I remember the side aches, my heart beating fast, and the way my chest felt tight. It took everything in me to keep going. But in that moment when I was overweight, unhealthy, depressed, and broken; I had a moment with God. I remember asking God for help. I asked that he would help me get through that grueling 30 minutes. I told Him that if he could just help me get through it, I knew I could serve Him better. I knew if I felt better about myself I would be able to serve him more graciously. Maybe if I felt better about myself, I wouldn't stay locked up in my apartment too embarrassed by the "muffin top" over my jeans or my tight fitting clothes.
God helped me get through that run and God helped me get through a true 30 min run without walking, later 45 min, 60 min, and then 2 :29 minutes when I ran my first half marathon. I will never forget the feeling of accomplishment I felt that day.
Running has improved my relationship with God. Running has inspired me. Running has made my body healthier. Running clears my mind. Running helps my depression. Running forces me to do something for me. Running has inspired me to do something for others who may be in similar situation as I was/am. Running has inspired to reach out to those women who want to do something for themselves for once, for those who want to set a goal, and for those who want to establish friendship and community with other runners.
My heart is to start a running club. The details are blurry but my vision is not! My vision is to have a group of women running together, supporting each other, and cheering one another on to get through that first 30 minutes together while sharing in tears, laughter & sweat. My vision is to embrace each other’s goals and learn from each other while having community together, eating, stretching, and recovering together. Lastly, my idea also includes serving and donating our time or our money to an organization to help the less fortunate in our community and in our world.
I'm inviting you to be a part of my running club. I can commit to 1-2 runs per month as a group. I will pick a location to meet at and we will run together cheering each other on. We will finish our run, feel proud, and celebrate with food and drinks at my house. I will choose a charity and if you feel compelled to, you may donate monetary funds to that charity or donate our time volunteering. I have listed a links below of an organization that I have been in contact with.
Running has changed my life and I hope I can encourage you to help it change yours as well.
Training Runs @ Budwieser 7:45am
These runs are hosted by Runners Roost. The training runs all start at Budwieser at 7:45am. They provide food, drinks and prizes after the run. I have participated in the past & they are a lot of fun and well orginized. Please let me know if you are interested.
2/22/09 6&7 Mile Loop
3/8/09 7 & 8 Mile Loop
3/22/09 7 & 10 Mile Loop
4/4/09 1o Mile Loop
2/22/09 6&7 Mile Loop
3/8/09 7 & 8 Mile Loop
3/22/09 7 & 10 Mile Loop
4/4/09 1o Mile Loop
Group Runs
February 7, 2009 3 Miles Boyd Lake
March 7, 2009 6 Miles Spring Creek
April 4, 2009 7 Miles Cashe La Poudre
All Group runs will begin at 9am!Please leave a comment if you would like to carpool.
Mimosas & breakfast will be provided after group runs!
March 7, 2009 6 Miles Spring Creek
April 4, 2009 7 Miles Cashe La Poudre
All Group runs will begin at 9am!Please leave a comment if you would like to carpool.
Mimosas & breakfast will be provided after group runs!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Definition
Soma:
1.The living body.
2.It is a large or small number of men/women closely united into one society, or family as it were;a social,ethical,mystical body.
1.The living body.
2.It is a large or small number of men/women closely united into one society, or family as it were;a social,ethical,mystical body.
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