Happy New Year. And it is better to be pooped on a run than to poop your pants on a run (learned from sad experience).

Good way to start out the year.

Have fun with the family--and happy running on the long one tomorrow!

Thanks Maurine! I agree :)

Thanks April! :)

Wow Marion! So do you average 5 miles? You are doing great. I am still figuring this blog stuff out but it's been fun so far. We are still in Idaho and I love the Garmin!

Yes Kylee- I run 5 miles a day and then one day I run 10 or more. I am going to stay here until after the marathon.

I am cracking up about the pooping in your pants! That Maurine is a goofball, I am so bummed she is not doing Painters!!! She would have been so much fun. Hey Marion, I felt like the biggest slug in all the land this morning. Oh, well we did it and good luck tomorrow!!!!!

GOOD JOB!!! It's a great feeling to feel pooped. Have a fun long run tomorrow. HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU!!!

Marion- check out my adventure after my running today. I am certain I am a magnet for migraines!!!! Hope you are headache free!!!

Nice Consistant Miles (notice I didnt say runs hee hee). You're doing great!!

Running 13 miles on your own is huge! You go! You never no what the "mystery miles" will do to your body! You did it and you will be fabulous at Painters!

Have a great day and reward yourself today!!!!

Marion - congratulations on your first 'teenage' run! That is awesome. You are going to have a blast at Painter's!

Alright Marion 13 miles! When is Painter's? You are so ready! I think you need a treat after that run! I am bad I guess but I always commit a little food sin after my long runs!(something chocolate usually)

thanks girls! My legs are "there" and I don't like sitting too much. Well the sitting is nice, but getting moving is a bit tougher than usual. It feels GREAT!!

Painters is Jan 17th! I am SO excited!!! :D Am I crazy???

WOOHOO!!! MARION, YOU DID IT!!! I was thinking about you on my solo run today: "Wonder how Marion is doing on her 13 miler? She's training so hard and so dedicated!" You inspired me!!! You're SO READY for Painter's. Can hardly wait to see you in two weeks.:)

Marion you are ready to slice and dice!@ Painters will be such a blast! Have fun and kick butt :)

AWESOME RUN!!! You are really just doing AMAZING!!!!! Need I say more?

Way to go Marion! But I'm really wondering what that strange noise was!!

Oh, and I think you deserve extra credit because to me, it would be more difficult to do 13 over 3 loops than doing an out and back or a big loop! Hooray for you!!

I think there was a murderer in the field and he was going to kill me ;)

The method has actually turned out to be WAY easier. I don't have to haul fuel, or find potties and all the little routes seem like no big deal to me, so mentally, it's a snap. I stumbled on this trick by accident a month or so ago and it has been GREAT! :D

Your awesome! Thirteen is a long, long way!!!!! Painter's here you come! Your gonna rock!

Sorry I've pretty much abadoned you on your runs! I do feel a little better today, so maybe we can run together next week.

I just can't imagine you doing your business in the bushes. You're too much of a lady.

You are Awesome Marion!! Awesome attitude, Awesome Ambition, Awesome runner, AWESOME PERSON!! Way to go!!

You chose an awesome day to run it too. The warm front was nice to you. Great you got out in the dark!!! Good luck at the marathon!!

Thanks guys- it was a GREAT run! The weather was PERFECT!

Great job!!

What a fun run :). I agree. Super mileage! So close to your 40 mpw goal too! You are one rockin' chicka! Woot woot!

A huge CONGRATS on you mileage!! That is absolutely fantastic!! Please do the happy dance all day, take pics, and post them!!

Seriously, that is wonderful!!

Enjoy you day doing your very important stuff! :)

yeah and you beat my mileage by .22 as I just checked my miles on the board. I thought I was doing great being the most I have run except in a marathon week. You go girl. Great Job!!!

Day after a 13 miler and you still ran 5 more without much ado--your fitness level is good! I can't wait for the 17th!

Way to go Marion, of course you are stiff a bit, you have great miles this week.

50 First Dates in one of my all time favorites too!!

Benn- thank you! How are the heels?

Teena- My important stuff turned out to be watching Mama Mia in bed with my daughter :)

Julie- NO WAY- I ran more than you this week? HOLY SMOKES!!! I must be turning into a "REAL" runner :D

April- I was a bit worried about the run today. I really goofed off though. I switched my laundry mid run and used the bathroom about 3 times and stretched a lot too. It was a pretty lame/un-serious run, but 5 bad boys still the same :D

Les- THANK YOU!!! We are going to have so much fun at Painters- how are the heels?

I LOVE THAT MOVIE!!

Saw it once with Ry and twice with some of my girlfriends. Hmmm ... maybe I will watch it tonight as well!

Awesome, Awesome miles this!!!!

...week! Ha ha

My heels are horrible, I will be hobbling like an old woman at Painters, I refuse to let it stop me from running/

Oh no Leslie- what can you do? IS hte vitamin I helping?

I take way to much Vit. I, I am usually so-so for my run, but by evening I am crippled. I keep thinking it will eventually go away, I have a full year of runs planned, so they do need to get better!!!

Okay, I just ran down and got Run Fat Boy Run and we are going to watch it right now!

Great job, Marion. I will not put my extra mileage on the treadmill in tonight - so you can be ahead of me for miles this week.

You will have a blast at Painters. Wish I could be there.

I forgot where this was posted but lets all go to Vegas to see Mama Mia. Maybe there is a little 5k we can do and then go see it :) David does not want to go for sure, but I do!

Let's go!!!!

Your mileage does rock this week! You are TOTALLY AWESOME! Take care of yourself, lots of YOGA!

I've seen the middle/end of 50 First Dates so many times and have never seen the beginning!! I like the middle and end though.

Congrats on your highest mileage ever week! What a super accomplishment!

WOW, MARION!!! U TOTALLY ROCK!!! CONGRATS on making your highest mileage and on a tough week with sinus issue to boot.

I love that movie too. It's so darn funny and cute.

Sounds like a good plan for the week. Funny how little kiddos can sneak into the yummies huh? hahaha Little buggers! :)

Hope you don't get sick again. Stay well for Painter's. That is an order.

Benn- they are really good at finding all of the good stuff ;)

Maurine- I do have a cold, I just have to keep it from turning in to a sinus infection. I wonder if I should stick to the treadmill this week for the humidity of the indoors.

The treadmill might be the safe way to go, not sure, I just hope you can keep it from getting worse. Good Luck!!!

Thanks! I see you did it- I love your goals too! Your weight loss is amazing - congratulations! Which half marathon have you picked? Hope you feel better and the sinus problems disapear!

Hi Nicole- I am running Painters 1/2 in St George, Utah on the 17th of January. I was scheduled for one last Aug, but I pulled my calf and had to skip it :( I am trying to play down Painters so I don't jinx myself :D

Marion get better soon!!!

How are you feeling today? I have a sore throat and runny nose but I'm determined to get rid of it before Painter's. Hope you get better real soon.

Are the plans for the apples still in place? I need to know a few specifics. I'll pm you with some questions.

Have a great week!

Yes, Smooth, I am feeling better today. Please pm me and I can answer all of your questions. You can even call me too :)

YOU SIMPLY MUST GET BETTER!!!!! You are doing all the right things, hang in there and you WILL improve!! REST ALOT!!! I will check on you tomorrow. Have you tried fresh ginger in Chicken broth? That seems to help me, however I doubt I had a sinus problem, just a bad cold.

Thanks Leslie- The cold is gone- I think. I am just WAY paranoid about getting another sinus infection! YIKES!!! I'll get some ginger tongiht when I replenish the milk supplies ;)

Hope you're feeling better. Still considering 5 miles....you are one tough chick!!!

If you get a second, check in on seeaprilrun, she needs some cheering up and you are awesome at doing that!!

What is with the illnesses?? Dang it!

So, when we switch over to HD, we will all get those channels on our TV's (the newer TV's without the rabbit ears???)

I am sending healthy vibes your way!

We just have regular old tv's and an old antenna on our roof from forever ago. David bought 2 boxes at Circut City- or some place like that and hooked them up. It looks AMAZING and we get a ton more channels. There are several channels per 1 old station. There are 3 channel 5's and 4 KBYU's etc. I am not a picky tv person, but this looks fantastic! I am so glad that we never paid for cable. This is free and looks like a dream.

Oh- btw, I am feeling pretty good. I'll try five miles in the am if I still feel this good in the am :) Sleep tight. I am off to sleep

Did you make sure to get those rebate things from the government for $40 for each box????

So, I still wonder if we will ALL get those channels when it switches over to HD. I wonder how to find out. My gym gets all of the HD channels, but I don't!

I dunno about all of the channels. We get more than we did :) A few of the channels are not airing in hdtv. Our favorite spanish speaking channel (24) is not in hd yet :(

We did get the coupons last week :) Yeah! AWESOME tv for $30 out of pocket.

Thanks for the visual, Marion (my eyes!). It sounds like you are focused and ready to roll for another year. Keep hydrating and taking your vitamins so you will stay healthy for Painters.

Yes MOM- I will get up and drink another 32 oz of water and take my vitamins! xoxoxoxo :D

Marion!!! I'm rolling on the floor laughing out loud with the visual. You are TOO FUNNY!!!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE your enthusiasm and positive vibes and the go-getter attitude. Yes you can give yourself that WONDERFUL birthday present. You ARE DOING IT!!!

Look at you, another 5 miles. I haven't got my hinnie out the door yet, still debating: another treadmill or scary slippery road or bag it??? You motivated me, I've got to just do it.

Now Smooth- your hubby has banned you from the out doors- you better get on that treadmill! TORTURE!!!! :D

Marion, WE ARE GOING TO DO THIS!!!!! Pretty soon you will be wearing your sports bra and shorts around the neighborhood!!!!!

Way to go 5 miles on the treadmill is HUGE!! I only did 3, and not because I was bored ( which I was) but I was POOPED! Last nights circuit training and this mornings wiped me out. I have such a long way to go!! It is sure nice to have company on this journey, thanks for the support and humor!!!!

GO MARION! GO MARION! GO MARION! You are inspiring!

Marion, way to stick it out on the treadmil! Do you have music... listening to my ipod while on the treadmil makes the time go by better for me. I also think that I'm a bit of a fanticizer (sorry for the spelling), but while I'm on the treadmil I can picture all the things that I want to scuplt, and make, I can visualize tons, then before I know it I have run for an hour :)

Love your goals... I have an extra five now also :( I hope I can refocus my efforts like you and loose the final 10, or now 15 that I'd like to loose.

I have a hard time on the treadmill because the kids are running all a round and they like to watch their shows. I am so afraid that a truck or pillow is going to come flying at me and send me into the christmas tree that is STILL THERE behind the treadmill!!! I can't even get up early to be alone- the boys get up at 5:30 am with the chickens! Hey- not even the chickens are awake then! ;)

Marion,

Too late, I got out there. Hubby is gonna find out and I can blame the bloggers for the positive peer pressure, right?

Man, you have a lot of "distractions" while running on the treadmill. Can you put the boys on the stationary bike or somethin'. Wait, if they're home, they must be pre-schoolers. Doesn't your new HD TV have a children exercise program they can watch? You have chickens? We used to have chickens. The last one died in April 2008. My Christmas tree used to stay up till President's Day. Not this year. So nice to have the house back.

We don't have chickens, we would have eaten them if we did. ;)

These pre schoolers are not in one spot for long. They are boys! Need I say more? Will, my 3 year old, keeps trying to race his cars along the treadmill belt when I am running. He's gonna kill me! ;)

Marion - You are one tough cookie. And one awesome mom and wife and friend. You are awesome. You have accomplished so much and all I can say is that everyone better watch out because "meling marion" is going to rip roar onto the scene as "smokin hot marion!" yeow! You are a trooper and an inspiration to me. Don't worry about being a "baby" on the treadmill. You get runs that are 2-3 x longer than mine on the treadmill! I can't wait to see you beat this goal too!

Thanks Benn- I am blushing now, gawl lee! ;)

You crack me up! However, your goals are serious business. I just copied and pasted and made them mine! FILLING FOODS are my key right now. This sugar free jell-o is not getting me anywhere!

You will succeed, you are awesome! And, dang it, progress is progress!

So, what did you buy to wear for the race????

Sugar free jello is a bummer unless it is covered in whipping cream! ;) I am really thinking about whipping cream right now! OOoo- I love orange jello with mandarin oranges with at least an inch of real whipping cream on top with a layer of finely shredded cheddar cheese! YUMMY!!! I better go to bed!

I bought Hot pink pants and a hot pink long sleeve shirt. REd gloves, ear muffs and a sweat shirt. I am going to look HOT! I am going to find some pink shorts just in case :)

Marion, you're making me hungry. I better go to bed too!!! Are you gonna bring that orange jello to Painter's?

I have a red and pink shirt!!! Now I need to accessorize!!!!

Smooth- I will make it just for you (and me). It is SO good, and yet so strange sounding :)

Leslie- We are going to dazzle and amaze all of our competition! I may even bring my red and pink PJ's. ;D

You had me until you said CHEESE!!!! Do not get me wrong, I love cheese, I think I could live on cheese, bread, and ice cream...but not in JELL-O!!! My grandma make a similar jell-o (but it has pineapple instead of mandarin oranges). So, make some of the nummy jell-o CHEESE FREE!!! SAVE THE JELL-O!

Weird Mormons and their funky jell-o creations!

My family never had jello growing up at all. My mother was not big on Jello. We were bad Mormons ;) We had this one maybe 2 or 3 times and it is good. I'll leave some cheese free for you, but you've got to try it.

I will try anything, I am an EATER!!! (Well, anything that did not come from the ocean, that is!)

Jell-o makes the world go round, I love it!

I'm a convert to good Mormon jello. I LOVE mandarin orange in jello. Hubby's family were good mormons. They make theirs with crushed pineapple and cream cheese in lime jello. I've never had cheddar cheese on my jello either. But I'll try it.

Kelli, you don't like seafood? I'd better not bring my shrimp pasta. What kind of bread do you like? I live 1.5 miles from Kneaders.

If the seafood will not kill her- then SUSANNA- YOU MUST BRING IT!!!! We LOVE seafood :)....unless it will kill Kelli- then it can be skipped.

It will not kill me! In fact, I just pick it out of the pasta when it is in there!!

I love mandarin oranges in jell-o, and bananas, and any kind of fruit. NO CARROTS!

NO CARROTS?? What kind of a Mormon are you??

That must have been a sweet site. About Painter's I have 48 hours to decide (price goes up and I refuse to not pay early price for a race). Basically I am wondering if I will sleep at all with three night shifts in a row the last being Thurs nite. I probably will sleep-run thru Painters or hopefully be so adrenalinized from lack of sleep and lots of chocolate...I will let you know Friday. Thanks for the invite. PS I don't have any Hot Pink to wear.

Oh and awesome swift mile you did there. Good job!!!

Question:

1. I am not going to Painters. Can I still wear Pink and Red adn cheer?

2. What's your next short term goal after Painters? Is it rocking? Because you already do that!

I bet you were cute in your hot pink!

Benn- You may wear the "colors" if you post a picture! Do you think you can handle the "colors"? My 11 year old said, "Wow- that's AWFUL!!!" She was right. My next goal is to run the 5k in under 28 and a 10 k in under an hour. I also really want to "race" a 1/2. I am hoping I will be ready to race one either in May(ogden) or hopefully for sure by august(Hobble Creek).

Julie- Thanks, you would have DIED laughing if you had seen me. It would be great if you can come- but if it were me and that much sleep weirdness- I'd be migraine city. For me, just sleeping out of my bed will guarantee a migraine sunday or monday for sure. My head is such a pansy!

Oh my goodness...I don't know what I would do if I ran past a hot-pink runner out here. We'd really stop traffic if it happened to be a day that I was wearing my neon green running shorts. They are so obnoxious, but I love the pockets!

And, uh...can someone tell me what Painters is?

We will take some great pictures!!!! I am still working on the pants, but I have the best socks!!!

Great job, the weather really was nice for a minute. Wish I could have gone with you.

I have to rework the pant too. I have a plethora of fabulous socks! :D

Becca- Painter is a 1/2 marathon is St George next Saturday :)

You're a beast! By the way, there is a new magazine called Women's Running and Yaktrax that you put on your shoes to run in the snow. Thought they might be useful to you if you hadn't seen them before! And only 20 bucks or so.

yaktrax.com

Thanks Kelsey! How are you? Did you have a nice Christmas? I bet you are toasty warm ;)

Yaktrax are awesome! And you are so tough Marion, way to get out on that weather!

What the heck time did you go out and run? It was in the mid-30's here!! Crazy woman, but it still beats a treadmill and you are done for the day!

I need to get that new magazine, I love magazines!!!!

I just realized my comment didn't make much sense. I meant to say the magazine wrote a little write up on Yaktrax, but you knew what I meant :)

Icicles on your lashes! You're the ice queen!

You're rapidly approaching your 40 mile/week goal, stud!

Can we just call you IQ for short? WAY to get out there in single digit. Did you wear your HOT PINKs?

Way to go Ice Woman!!!

That's ICE QUEEN!!! ;)

I went after 8. The highway to Salem is very low and is about 10 degrees colder for some reason :)

MIKE- YOU'RE BACK!!!

Ice Goddess!!!

Tapers are always fun!

Wait wait.. 1 mile barefoot AND on the treadmill? Holy Monkeys! That's redonk! I think my feetsies would fry off from the friction! Burnt Howling Commando toesies a la carte!

Benn- you crack me up! My hubby has pansy feet. Mine are like really rough leather. Tough as nails! ;)

Benn is a funny one. That post made me laugh out loud!

Marion,

That's the same "Around the World" core work I use. I got that link from Teena. The first time I saw that clip I was laughing hysterical. That's a great core workout.

Do you go bare feet all day? I used to; not any more. Now I wear crocs around the house.

Yes- Rachel(KungfuBlonde) told me about that one. It really makes me sore, so it must work ;)

I do run around barefooted. I am supposed to be wearing my birks, but I hate shoes to be worn in my house. It feels so naughty. It's a habit from when I was a kid. "no shoes in the house!!!" grrrrr! (the growl is my mom ;)

Wow...barefoot on the treadmill?? I think I'd be too scared to try it! A friend of mine fell while running on the treadmill (the joke is that she was drooling over a cute guy in the weight room) and friction was not her friend!

I'll have to give that ab workout a try, thanks for sharing it! Does it work better if you wear super-short shorts like the guy in the demo?

Oh yeah- The shorter the shorts the better the result! ;)

Baptism by fire (or slush) for your shoes. Next time - punch away.

Those dang Utah drivers!!!!! Way to go Marion!!! Have you seen any pink sexy leg warmers anywhere???? I have some red sweat pants, I wonder if I run in them if they would give me a wedgie too?

How many miles are you doing tomorrow? I think I am going to do 8 with Maurine, we are trying to get something going. You should come join us!

I am going for 8 too :) I am off to Target right now to see what else I can find. I think we are going to have to go red an pink for the whole year. We'll be buying so much stuff to cover all the weather bases that we might be all stocked up for the year. We can be known as the Red Hot Pink Chicks!

I love it!!!! The Red Hot Pink Chicks is perfect!!!! Let me know what you find!

We need shirts!

Marion, you should have punch!! I have done it before... I have also got hit in the sholder with the rear view mirror from a truck... some people are so blind!

I went shopping at Target and wanted to tell you I found Talls in the exercise pants :) not more floods for us amazon women :)

Great run, sorry about the scary drivers!

I lazed about...a lot!

You DRENCHED your NEW shoes??? OK, I still have a hard time doing that. I'm gonna wear my new shoes at Painter's but I refused to break them out in these icky messy roads. I need to find a nice route tomorrow.

1,000 lashes to the bad bad bad drivers!

Red Hot Pink Chicks are permitted to laze about anytime!

Lori- I didn't see any talls :( I am going to have to look harder. I have been wearing guy pants cause they are longer. OK the hot pink ones were NOT guys :D

Kelli- good for you!

Smooth- Yes- I drenched them. I thought of you, and how you wear your old ones in the snow. I was a bit out of it. They are so sad now :(

You girls that need "tall" pants...how about if I give you the 4-6 inches I'd need to hem off of my pants and you can attach them to yours?

I don't know what I'm more guilty of...road rage or running-on-the-road rage! Some drivers are just terrible! Especially in winter conditions, they should be way more careful. When there's a nice driver who moves over a lane or lets me cross the street even though they have a green light, I always think "That must be a runner!"

BEcca- My favorite are the little old ladies who give me a big smile and a thumbs up as they pass me by. Most drivers are really great- but some are just jerks!

Hey Becca- My mom is 6" shorter than I am. I am a tall freak of nature ;)

You've got some great goals going. Keep us the good work! Good Luck at Painter's next week.

I think it is totally a sign. I had gone 7 days without sugar and finally, on Thursday night, I went to Maglebys and bought me a piece of their chocolate cake and devoured every bite, it was heaven!! Then, had a small treat yesterday too. I was supposed to be off of sugar starting on the 2nd until after painters, so I am going to try and cut it out this week, and then will come find you at painters to get some of those cookies, Deal??

Hey, you got out and ran 8 miles today, You Are AWESOME!! Way to go Marion~

Oh yes- You are running Painters?? We are having dinner at our condo. We'd love to have you. It's a potluck dinner. I am sure we will be going out to lunch after too. Oh and did you hear? We are the Red Hot Pink Chicks! You must wear red and hot pink. We are going to stop traffic! ;)

Dang those cookies sound good! 8 miles is 8 miles!!! It is all good and wonderful! You have put in all the work, and you will do FANTASTIC at Painters, you Red Hot Pink Chick you! I am planning on really taking it easy, I have no time goal for Painters at all, I will shuffle along and talk with the folks in the back and be happy as a clam!

Yep. You're going to do great at Painter's. Don't eat too many cookies before then. You can send them to me if they're too much of a temptation. After the race you can eat all you want.

Dream cookies, love the name!

You have had a great couple of weeks, cut yourself some slack! Plus, it is winter, we should be hibernating not out running our butts off (literally, I wish!)

I know Kelli- I guess I just keep expecting that some day I will never have another bad run ever again! :) So, with a bad run, I get cookies! I need to hide them or mail them to Burt!

Or FREEZE them and save them for the next crappy run---it will save you from baking.

Good plan. I will freeze them, although about 20 teenagers are coming over tonight so they probably wont make it too long. I had to make them so I wouldn't dream about them again. That reminds me about something else I was dreaming about last night. Strange night!

Hey, any ideas for me---my daughter is turning 16 on Wednesday. She will not be getting a license, so that is not fun, and she is babysitting for us while we are out of town on her first weekend 16,so what can I do for her?

Where are my cookies!?!

Maurine- they are being devoured by short people!

Kelli- We had a surprise party for Anna at the church. We set up the volley ball nets and the wii in the RS room with a projector. We also go the costco Princess birthday cake. (She is NOT a princess ;) We ordered pizza. It was SO easy and they had a great time. Her YW leaders told her that they were doing a service project and cleaning the church. We did it on a Saturday morning.

You could bust her out of school wed and take her to lunch and a movie. You could get permission to bust out a few of her friends too. Or get her friends to come over early and take them all out to breakfast before school. You could take trax to down town and have lunch some where cool.

Dream Cookies...what a notion!! You could be on Oprah..Something about Dream Interpretation and Reality. I bet your cookies could win a prize. Yum Yum. I need to have more yummy dreams.

Marion, those cookies sound so good!! Way to get in your miles today (and adding the little extra torture in the end). You are a fighter for sure!

Hope you are enjoying your evening.

Julie- it's funny you mention Oprah- I thought the same thing as I was making them. It felt so "oprah-esque". :)

Teena- Thanks! We've got a plethora of teenagers in the basement watching Sense and Sensibility (BBC version). Good times!

MMMMmmmm *drool.. Can I place an order for cookies/!?! Um.. yum!!! I'll have to send you my recipe for some yummy cookies I've been making at home.

How do the feet feel? Super run today! It was only in the single digits here today so it was really nippy here!

As for the "Dream" cookies, I would definitely have to modify the recipe, as if I made that much dough, I would promptly gain 10 or 15 pounds after consuming all those goodies! :) Are you getting psyched for Painters?

WAY to bust out that beast and an 8 miler.

Dream cookies, you're a gourmet dreamer chef. Do you talk in your sleep? With that you would make the Oprah and Good Morning America or Yen Can Cook Show!!!

Way to make your dreams reality! :)

You're killing me with that recipe! My goal is to get thru this day without a mishap. So far so good, weigh in is tomorrow for our contest. I want to eat a half dozen of your cookies now with a big glass of milk. Boo hoo....

24 starts in 45 minutes and that will take my attention of my sweet tooth hopfeully.

What kind of rolled grain cereal do you get and do you eat it as cereal or just bake with it?

Sorry Leslie- I don't mean to be a bad influence ;) I use Lehi Roller Mills 6 grain cereal. You can use just regular old fashioned rolled oats too :) I like to be complicated ;) They are also a bit tougher and give the cookie a bit more grit ;D

Why is everyone feeling "nappy" today? Must be all that hard training. Have a great taper week. Since I'm training right thru Painter's. I won't be tapering too much.

You have to remember that this is my first 1/2 and I am a beginner runner. I am SO excited!!!

Have you always been a running machine? or are you new to this? I am very new and want to know if it is possible for a 39 year old to have some amazing success as I head into the 40's and beyond? I don't mean to suggest that 40 is old in anyway shape or form, I just spent my 20's and 30's totally inactive and VERY over weight and want to know if there is any chance for redemption :) Is that a silly question?

Marion - there are several people in Master's running history who took up running to get in shape and did great. You can do it!

You are DOING it Marion!!!!!! Enjoy the taper and I'll see you Friday night!

You sound like you have it all planned out! I'm super excited for you. There's nothing like your first long distance races. And if your first marathon does anything, it makes you fall in love with half marathons! Enjoy your taper!!! Can't wait to hear all about the races in the months to come... Maybe I'll have to mail you some victory muffins!

these are great goals. and i think you are well on your way. good luck in your race this weekend!!!

Marion,

YES, you are DOING it!!! NO, it's not a silly question. NO, I have never been and AM NOT a running machine. I was a book worm in high school and college. I spent my entire adult life being a mom. Working weekends graveyard shifts in the hospital, eating whatever was in sight for 20 years. I was 35 lbs overweight. I have never played any sports in my life. Yes I was VERY INACTIVE!

2004 was the year of awakening after my husband's heart surgeries. He's always been very active, fit and skinny. He bought a treadmill to rehabilitate his heart. I decided I needed to get healthy so I could take care of him. (At the time we thought he would become disabled). I joined WW in Oct 2004 and lost 30 lbs by the end of Jan 2005. I started running on that treadmill (which stood idle since my hubby was all better). I discovered that I really like running.

To make the long story short: here I was at age 49, started running and training for the 2005 St. George Marathon. The rest is history. I'm 53 and I hope to run as many marathons as my legs would let me.

Marion, have faith and confidence in yourself, you are working towards achieving your goals. You are doing awesome. You will have many many more success ahead of you. You are stronger than you think. You have already lost a lot of weight and running almost every day. I am SO EXCITED for your very first half marathon. You know you're going to PR, right? We are going to celebrate your victory big time!!! LOVE YOU!

Marion, what do you mean "unless I somehow blossom into an amazing distance runner"?? Look at your goals again... that's pretty amazing!

Enjoy your taper this week. Yesterday I was dressed & ready to go, but I realized that I needed to change into shorts with pockets since I decided to run off base. I pulled on my red shorts & was about to change my shirt but looked in the mirror and laughed when I saw that I was wearing a white & PINK shirt with RED shorts...I thought of you and your half marathon and decided I'd keep my pink & red outfit on so I could be part of the fun! ;)

That was interesting to hear your story Smooth. You really got the weight off quick and turned your life around. What an inspiration!

Marion, you are in that same league, you two are amazing women!

Yay Becca! Sasha may roll over and die- but I think the women of this blog are going to insist that we are the RED HOT PINK CHICKS!!!! (for 2009 anyway :)

Smooth- I am in tears! Thank you! Your story is amazing and I am inspired. You are right, the very best thing about this weekend is that no matter what happens, it is going to be an amazing PR for me :) When I set the goal to run a 1/2, I pretty much did not believe myself. Now it is here and I am not worried about it at all. I am very excited!

You all are the BEST support and FRIENDS ever!! Thanks so much!! (my regular friends thing I am nuts ;)

Allie- Good luck at PF Chang! I can't wait to read your race report!!!

Maurine- are you sure you don't want to come with us this weekend? Can't you work wirelessly???? Hey- what is your road to fitness story????

Leslie- You and Susanna are my inspiration. I can't wait to have some of that pasta salad :)

Kelsey- Margarita-ville!!! I'll come get you and we can drive down to the Keys!!!

Marion - I wish I could be there, but I have an important mission. I am going to go and hold Billy Bubbles and gossip with Sarah all Saturday while Sasha is off playing with you.

Wait a minute - why I am supposed to pay everyone $10. No way! Its bad enough I've been called a guy today.

My fitness story - I've always been relatively fit.

I started running in Jr High back when there weren't Girls Cross Country teams. I ran on the boys team and was last in every single race.

Later I switched to walking and bicycling. I mainly did endurance sports to keep me out of my house and help me cope with my mother's emotional and verbal abuse.

I continued walking over the years, and even took up hiking. I had knee surgery back in 1979 and was told I could never run or do martial arts or things like that. So, of course, I studied the martial arts for years.

After moving back to Utah in 1991, I started walking as a way to avoid depression, keep my kids motivated, avoid my mothers moods (never ends) and also deal with a husband that was never home and emotionally detached. I kept walking as much as I could - even causing a stress fracture in my left leg and through 2 ankle surgeries.

I had a neighbor that ran marathons and he started encouraging me to run with him. He was very patient about stopping and walking with me. He also was dealing with a struggling marriage.

In 2003 my mother was diagnosed with lung cancer. At that point in time I started realizing that I was foolish to not live my dreams. Two of my dreams were to run a marathon and to learn to play the banjo. I decided that I would walk a marathon and teach myself to play the banjo.

I started serious training in January 2004 and completed my first marathon in May 2004.

2004, 2005 and 2006 were my 'dark years'. 2005 I dealt with my mother's final battle with brain tumors and death, my husband and children gone all summer (husband travelling, Jenn in Montana, Kevin on Catalina Island). Our dog was dying and it was tearing me apart. I opened the mail one day to find my hubby had left the church without ever discussing it with me. Jenn got engaged (she kind of forgot to tell us she was interested in this guy) and that drove hubby over the brink. (Not that her engagement was bad - LOL).

2006 continued with the death of our dog, finding out that right after Jenn got married she would be moving to Italy, me leaving my husband, son totalling car, moving 3 times that year, daughter getting married, daughter leaving country.

As I learned to overcome the years of emotional abuse I had been under I did put on some weight. In July 2007 I started with a personal trainer and lost 30 pounds and started becoming a runner. Now - I am seeing where I can go from here. I have learned I have value in life and that I am a nice person. My kids are great and I still have a relationship with my ex.

There's more to the story - but that is enough excitement for now.

Maurine- What idiot called you a guy? I hope you pistol whipped them and Kung Fu'd their bum! ;) (was it me? ;o)

The $10 comes from you saying you'd pay me $10 if I could get Sasha to do it- i just extrapolated it to include all men :) Ok- I'll take that part off :p

WOW- your story is... WOW!!! Exercise really does make a great big difference with all the the emotions of life. You are a ROCK star!!!

Have fun with Sarah and baby Willie. We are going to miss you!!!! Are you going to do all of those races in provo? (the 5 & 10k's?) I am thinking about it. I like the bigger races, though, so I stick out less :)

Alright- I am registers for Ogden 1/2! I am in 100% for that 1/2 :)

Yay - are you going to wait around for the marathoners to finish!?

Walter called me a guy (I believe in tattling).

Nope - I might do a 5K every 2 months or quarter. They are a lot of work!

"Will I wait for you??? Will I wait for you??? Why Maurine Lee you aught to be ashamed of yourself? I've given you the best years of my life! I stood here through it all, through short and fat and tall! Through thick and thin and rain and snow and ice!!!! And now you're questioning my integrity???"

Sorry- I was having a Saturdays Warriors moment!

Yep- I plan on waiting for the marathoners :)

Wow, Tarzan.

How are your banjo skills?

Marion,

Your sense of how committed you are must be very keen to figure that you are at the 89% mark vs the 88% mark or the 91% mark.

Yes Mike- I am very in tune with my level of commitments :) It's a skill ;)

Nice pace Marion!

Will sounds so adorable! I used to have trouble saying "upholstry" - the "ph" sound doesn't work like in other words! That's tricky!

Marion your boys sounds adroable... and from pictures you have sent they look darling too. :) It makes me miss mine being little, but I do have grandkids that are soooo fun!!

Great pace... tapers always feel good, and usually by the race day I'm so ready to go.

I am hoping that I am ready for the race. This is not a down hill race, so I don't know what to expect at all. (the 10 miler I did was down Provo canyon ;) I am just going to do what feels good and get it under my belt!

Lori- are you running Ogden? I am doing the half.

Lucia- I imagine that learning "american" is really hard! Other languages actually have rules that they follow. American english is a hodgepodge of SO many different languages that it must be a nightmare!!!

That made me laugh, those cute little boys!!

Hey, check my blog, I just started carbo-loading!! Do not follow my lead, I was naughty. You are right, just eat healthy and we will carbo load Friday, I actually went to Ricks Bagels to eat their pasta salad so I could see all the ingredients they put in it so I can duplicate it for Friday night. I did it for you and the gang! Dang it was good!

oh, I sent your check today, hopefully you will get it before you leave for St. George. I can hardly wait!

I forgot to say, NICE PACE!!!!

Marion,

How cute!!! Your little boys are darling. I have five boys. I do miss those sweet children's talks. It makes me laugh and bring so much sunshine to my days.

You already know what to eat. Carb-load means more carb than other stuff (protein, fats, etc). It doesn't mean more food or load up on eating.

My favorite carbs are sweet potatoes, whole wheat pasta, apples, bananas, bread, brown rice, vegetables, yogurt.

The hardest part for me in tapering is what to do with all the extra energy.

Oh, I went looking for hot-pink stuff at Runner's Corner. Their pink stuff is not HOT, more like smoky pink or muted pink. There's one soft pink shirt I really like, but the price tag is $74.99. Yikes! I'll keep looking; but most likely I'll have to settle for red and black. Is that ok if I'm just RED HOT CHICK, and not RED HOT PINK CHICK? I wish the weather was much warmer; 'cause I do have a running skirt that has hot pick trims. :)

Smooth- you will be FAB in red!! Leslie may throw a pink boa on you! :D

Yes- I am watching the portions and trying to focus on carbs. I love the fruits and veggies, but I fear they might not like running 13 miles too much :) I am also thinking that my body is not a big fan of too much dairy. I LOVE dairy, but I think it is the culprit in a number of mysterious ailments of mine.

I am eating whatever the heck I want and running more with all of my energy. HMMM, guess I have it backwards!

I love the things kids say, it is so cute! Remind me while we are running to tell you all of the funny things my kids said when we were driving to Mesquite. It was hilarious!

I have the pink shirt, but that is it so far! I am going to go to target and look for some socks (although I am planning to run in capris, so i am not sure how much of them will show. Maybe it will be warm enough for shorts??? I would wear shorts here today, I like cold!) and I will look for some hair accessories. But I can not find RED pants---sorry! I may try Sports Authority today. I bet they will have pink.

Have a good day BEAUTIFUL!

Little kids are so dang cute!

Mac (5) was just lining up ALL of his vast fortune in change and asked me what he had. I told him, a few nickles, a bunch of pennies and a dime. He exclaimed with much glee and excitement, "Now I can blow something up!" I have NO clue as to what that means at all !

Your blogs always make be laugh....sometimes even belly laugh. Have a SUPER day enjoy your tapering!!!

:D :D :D LOL LOL LOL. Yeah, Marion, don't go BLOWING up all his VAST fortune on something froofoolous (sp?) like ice cream. Oh wait you can't have dairy. Never mind. Let him blow it up on something he likes. Sweet little Mac. xoxoxoxo!

Marion, Yep that is my plan to run Ogden! You will love the half it is a fun run.

Thanks guys!!! That boy is hilarious!

Lori- we finally get to meet! I am SO excited!!!

Wow! I feel the power!! You will do it, I am going to be right beside you on your journey! This is going to THE YEAR! 100 pounds for you! 50 miles for me! I am shooting for 15 pounds by the end of March, and then I think I will try for 5 more by Ogden. Okay girl, LET'S DO IT!!!!!

I think you did some good introspection there Marion. You should be very proud of how far you have come. It is awesome! I know that with the same determination you have shown in the past that you will be able to succeed in all of your goals.

Thanks girls! I feel STRONG!!! I feel POWERFUL!!! I am off to conquer the laundry and the smelly boys that are lazing about in the tub! Boy do they get STINKY!! Oh wait... I think it is the poopie diaper sitting next to me!! ...or is it me????

nothing wrong with wanting to blow stuff up...

Nevels- I thought of you! Yesterday, Mac was so excited about all of his "coin" and he exclaimed with much joy, "Now I can blow something up!!!" I laughed so hard! My other kids buy candy with their riches. I am going to have to watch this one ;)

I would say that he'll grow out of it, but I'd be lying...

Just tell him that if he spends his money wisely, studies hard, and does really well in school, he'll be able to blow all kinds of stuff up!

I fear it is genetic. We live in the house his grandfather grew up in. It used to have a garage, that Grandpa blew up when he was 15! Grandpa(Big Mac- yes, our little pyro is named for his grandpa) also made an underground fort with a stove for heat and he wired it for electricity from a nearby power pole. When he got too old for the fort, he built a bomb and blew it up to see what would happen. I think we may be in BIG trouble with this one! Just as a side note- David's dad, Big Mac, ended up being a great citizen and a high school teacher.

Wow Marion, you are awesome girl! 100#'s? WOW. What an accomplishment! I'm so excited for you! YEAH YOU!!!!!

Awesome girlfriend!! What a trooper you have been. The no carb thing was difficult at first and after avoiding foods I was probably allergic to (like yeast, onions, garlic, sugar, of all things) I lost over 20 pounds that had been hanging on me the last 10 years since my first child. Now I don't crave them much at all (a half a small bowl of ice cream suffices instead of a huge thick 20 ounce shake) however I do eat chocolate chips. But sadly now with the braces I can't eat them as fast. I have craved almonds and so do eat plenty of fat but my body has loved them. I had to say goodbye to them too though as there is no eating of nuts in this situation. Basically what I am trying to tell you is that as you get going it will be easier and you will see your body respond positively, including diminished headaches.

Thanks Julie :) You'll get used to those braces in not time an find ways to get the almonds :) My daughter brought some home last night. They were SO good!

Marion, you are so inspiring!! I with you in this I really need to drop at least 15 buy Ogden, I would really like 20. But I need to be realistic with myself, maybe all your commitment and enthusiasm is rubbing off, but I'm with you gril!

I feel your power and i KNOW you will do it! look what you have done so far, no denying you can do whatever you put your mind to!

That was like an inspirational speech! I'm quite convinced that you will be RACING! I can't wait to hear about Painters.

See! Marion!!! You were high-five'd, whooped and honked by a car load of teenage boys!!! YOU ROCK!!! You're a head-turner. :)

No doubt about it, you're gonna reach your AWESOME goals with flying colors! :)

Little Mac is gonna be a genius. Just don't let him near any explosive device. LOL :D

Marion - you are amazing! I just thought I'd tell you that. I love reading your entries.

Thanks guys- I am feeling a bit reserved about running this morning. It's only 19 degrees outside. I am already freezing in my warm house!!! What ever shall I do? I guess I'll run on my treadmill in my jammies :)

I agree that boys are weird! sheesh! though that does sound fun, blowing up a tree ! :) I mean.. no, that would not be the "responsible" thing for me to do :).

As I've stated before, you are one of my heroes, Marion! You rock! Hehe I agree with some of the other bloggers. You're definitely turning heads :). I can't wait for your PAINTERS REPORT!!

Great plan, Marion! Your racing ambitions sound very familiar to me. (ie I've wanted those things too!) If you don't mind a little unsolicited advice, immerse yourself in stories about elite runners and how they train, eat, etc. What I find is that my brain will accept that path if I make it appear "normal" instead of "tough, exceptional, extraordinary, etc." Does that make sense? I wish you great success!!

Thanks Benn :)

Sno- THANK YOU!!! I think you are exactly right. I think that is why I like this blog so much. I I am going to drag MichelleL to lunch next week and pick her brain for training ideas :)

So excited for you Marion! I just read your entry for yesterday, you can reach your goals being so committed! And what's with your kids wanting to blow up trees? Too funny! Have a great day!

I don't know if I can wait for your race report! They should have live streaming coverage of the Painter's Half haha

Funny Benn- we could send you text messages as we come in :)

Lucia- I have no idea about the blowing up. But if you read the comments between me and Nevels it might be a bit more clear. :)

Are you leaving the kids behind? Or taking them along?

I can't wait to hear how you do! You first half marathon - how exciting!

I just read yesterday's (and left a comment). I'll be thinking of you at Painters. Have fun.

Maurine- The kids are getting left behind! YIKES!! They'll be great :) I am getting a bit too excited! My tummy is upset. If it doesn't calm down by tomorrow about noon, I'll bust out the Imodium ;)

Sno- send positive energy to me :)

Good for you! You got in 2 miles! See you tomorrow night!!!!

Glad you got 2 miles in. I find that I fall asleep better if I had run even a little. Get plenty of sleep tonight, cause we don't sleep the night before the race. I feel lucky I don't have to get the kiddos ready before heading out of town. Can't wait to see ya!!! :)

Dang, I forgot I have to clean and pack all of the kids up, on top of everything I already did today! I lived in the car for 5 hours!

See you tomorrow.

Good luck on your race. I know you can do it! Just remember that you are ready for this race.

Go Marion!!

Hope you have a blast in your 1st half marathon!

Drive Safe! I hope my check arrived. See you tonight!

I'm gonna pack right now and off this afternoon. Drive safe, o wait, Scott's driving, never mind. Have a fun and safe trip. Can't wait to see you in a few hours.

YAY!!!! GO MARION GOOOO! YOU CAN DOO EEET :-D

Dont forget your bright clothing! Im jealous of how warm its going to be there!

GOOOOOOOOO MARION YOU'LL DO GREAT!

Have fun out there, can't wait to read about it!

Have a great time out there! I will be looking for your race report!

Have Fun!!! You will do fantastic... take pictures so you can post for the rest of us. I expect a full report.

Good luck!

Yay Marion!!!! Can't wait to hear how it goes!!!!

Gooo Gooo Goo Marion, you know that you can!!! (Joseph and the technicolor dreamcoat ). Can't wait for the report. Only a few more precious hours for you before take off running.

GOOD LUCK!! Have fun, can't wait to read all about it.

Can't wait for the rest of the report. Get some rest. You deserve it. (Why am I the first to comment? I'm going to get a million emails in my inbox now!)

Congratulations, you did it!! I remember the first one i ran and i was really really tired. But you did it and that is awesome. I can not wait until i read the full report. Now get some rest.

Great job, I ran with Kelli on thursday and she mentioned she was going to run with you. I assume you were in appropriate bright colors? haha

I think that was definitely a 2-cheeseburger run. Nice work!

Congratulations on your first half marathon!!!! Your pace was even faster than you thougt right?

Nice race! Congratulations and sweet pace!

Congratulations on toughing it out. I think very great things are in store for you as you pursue your goals! Happy Recovery...

Congratulations! Your first half is out of the way. It was so exciting to see you finish. What a fun day!

Marion,

AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME!! What an amazing race and weekend for you. Long live such a GREAT memory.

Seriously, you did incredible. You should be very proud of yourself, not only because of how well you raced, but because of all the hard work you put in to get you there. You are an amazing woman. I just think the world of you!

Congratulations again. Also, here is the link for the official results http://www.strideracing.com/2009/january/painters-half-marathon-and-5k-results.html

Nicely done Marion! You are a ROCKSTAR!!!

(btw, crying is totally acceptable after any race that you worked so hard for!!)

Marion!!!!

CONGRATULATIONS!!! YOU DID IT!!! YOU OWN it now! You are AWESOME!!!

I am so sorry I didn't hook up with you at the end. I wanted to; but Larry herded me out of there as fast as he could, saying: "You have too many friends who kept stopping to talk to you. We need to hurry back to the condo so you can shower and make it to the luncheon on time."

I want to THANK YOU for the wonderful dinner, the fun visit, the LUXURIOUS master-suite, your ever POSITIVE enthusiasm. Larry is so impressed by you. We think you're the greatest mom, fun and witty and a tremendous friend.

Enjoy the HUGE accomplishments. I see many PR's ahead of you. Keep on running, my dear sweet Marion!!!

Marion,

One more thing that I forgot to tell you. You beat my time for my first half marathon ... plus, you beat it on a more difficult course as well!

Smooth is right, you have a lot of PRs in store for you. YOU ARE AWESOME!!!

Congrats Marion!!!! You are incredible. You have come so far, finishing the race must have been the most amazing feeling. Just imagine what 2009 has in store for you!!

Marion - congratulations and hugs! That is a tremendous accomplishment. I think it took me two years of running to make that time in a half. You should be very proud of yourself. Enjoy the sore feeling because you earned it!

Off to run a half marathon of my own since I missed the big party yesterday!

Thanks everyone! I have been weepy eyed all day today.

Burt- Sorry about the email avalanche :)

Barry- I am still pretty pooped, but I slept pretty good last night :)

Walter- Oh man were we HOT in our Pink and red!! Sasha thinks some pink girl gear is a good idea- we shall see ;)

Mike- I could only get down 1/2 a burger. Kelli and I shared ;)

Britta- The pace was just great- my brain was a bit uncooperative yesterday so I did not want to push too much. I figure I have given myself a lot of room to improve :)

April- Thanks ;) How is the ankle???

Sno- Thanks! I am trying to be like you!!!

Jon- You were just the BEST ever- an angel from heaven and by the way- I just LOVE Kelly!!! Good luck ;)

Teena & Susanna- You two are making me cry MORE than I already am. Your encouragement and kindness mean SO much to me! I am so blessed that we met!

Kelsey- Thank you! I am REALLY excited about 2009 :)

Maurine- GOOD LUCK on your run today :) You are a MAJOR inspiration to me and I am SO glad to know you!!!! Did you have fun with Sarah??

Marion, you had an awesome run!! As everyone said, you have come so far that we are just all in awe! Now that you have the first half out of the way, I KNOW for a fact your next time will be super speedy! You are a very strong runner, thank you for letting me run with you!!!

I realized later that I should have backed off and let you run across that finish lone by yourself!!! I just got so carried away with your speed (I was chasing you at that point), and finishing the race myself! Sorry 'bout that, but we do have a cute picture of us both crossing the finish line together!

We had a great drive home, and usually I just dread that! I had one of the worst headaches of my life, so I am so glad you were there to talk to me and keep my mind off of the pain!

YOU ARE SIMPLY THE BEST!

Kelli- I am so sorry about your brain! :( I hope you slept last night. You are right, that drive went SO fast and was great. I am SUPER glad that we crossed the line together! That is exactly how it needed to be! IT was PERFECT!!! ONe day, I will be able to run at your pace (I hope) and we can kick eachothers bums :) And YOU ARE THE BEST!!!! XOXOXOXOXOXO!! My kids are ready for the trip with you and yours to the condo. Spencer said they have 3 pools and an arcade ;)

Heck yeah, it will be so fun with kids!!! I can not wait to run that course again. It is always better the second time because you know what to expect.

I still have a headache, I did not dare to take anything to sleep becasue of church. BUT, I will tonight!

You are great, thanks for making all of those arrangements for us. We had fun!

Marion, you are amazing! What an awesome race. We loved reading your race report and are so glad you had such a fun time (minus the potty break :-p). Glad you went out to dinner. You definitely earned it! Enjoy the holiday tomorrow!

Benn & Emma

I just got home, I ran to the computer room so I can check everyones blog. You were awesome, and I was so happy I could run the whole way with you two little cuties. ( execpt for the last half mile where you and kelli kicked it up and ran in like little speed demons!)

The whole weekend was perfect, the dinner, the visiting and the race. I think we need to run all our races together forever!!!!!

This is just the beginning, it will be fun to see what the rest of 2009 will be!!! You are on your way girl! Buckle up!! Here you go! Thanks for letting me be a part of all the fun!! I loved everything about our Painter's weekend!

Leslie- I am going to start crying again! You are an angel and I LOVED running with you! How was your girl date? xoxoxoxoxoxo

Marion, congradulations, your a running animal, 200 commando points for the PR. Have and fun great 2009.

Stay Kool, B of BS Rools out

Yay you did it and in STYLE!!! Congrats friend. Hope you have a nice recovery!!!

Way to go, Marion!!! You did it! Loved your report and how awesome to have such great support when the going got tough!

YAHOOOO!!!! I'm so happy for you!!! You did a fantastic job and should be so proud of what you have accomplished.

way to go! you ran an awesome race. thanks for all the details. it was very enjoyable to read. what a great race to start the year. keep it up!!!

Marion... you rock! Way to go! That is awesome!!!

AWESOME RACE!!!! Great support of family and friends too. Isn't that the best. Have a good recovery day.

Great job on your first half marathon finish, you did great!

It was so great to meet you Marion! You are awesome. Great job on the race. That was a toughy for your first.

You are so awesome! Sounds like a great race! It's amazing how emotional it is when you finally cross the finish line! You've accomplished so much! You really are an inspiration to me!!!!!

Thanks guys! I am SO glad to have that first 1/2 under my belt. I am trying really hard not to get too excited about Ogden 1/2 :) It is really fun to have such a great hobby with such AMAZING support in all of you!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! It means the world to me!!! :D

Your report gave me chills. I loved reading every last word of it. Heck, I almost cried reading it, so I can only imagine your emotions. I have cried at several races because it is just a huge sense of accomplishment that you have worked so darn hard to achieve, BE PROUD!!! You really are such an amazing person. I hope you know what an example you have been to so many of us. Thanks for sharing your experience for us all to read.

Oh, and I don't know if you noticed but when trying to decide what to wear Saturday, I picked out a hot pink shirt just in your honor. Just wanted you to know that you inspired it :) I was proud in Pink~

I'm with kellis, reading your report made me more emotional than any other reports/races so far. Can you believe you did it? And not just finished, you did it in a great time and great splits and YOU ARE AMAZING! Congratulations girl!!!

Kellie- PINK RULES!!! It was so fun to see you and your family :)

Lucia- THANKS!!! :D

Did I tell you good job?

Oh yeah. I was the first one.

Marion!!! That's a good "reverse taper plan". Smart to play it by ear. I'll bet the massage feels heavenly. I heard that it helps to drink plenty of water after the massage too.

I had the BEST time this weekend too!!! THANKS to you and all our blog friends. I sure hope we get to have many more fun times like that together in the future. Have a great week. :)

Thanks Smooth- The massage was heaven!! I drank 32 oz immediately after the massage and another 32 a few hours later.

I miss you guys!!

I miss you too! Next time we should pre-schedule a massage session for us girls post race, wouldn't that be fun?

oooh yeah! Hobble Creek! We have got to plan post race parties for all of the race!

Wow Marion! A massage is a great idea. Maybe I'll have to add that tradition, too. You inspire me, sis-in-law!!

You are right on Kylee! Traditions are a beautiful thing when they include an awesome massage :D

I love your attitude!! You are always so upbeat and happy. You are a great example. Thanks for being such an awesome person. It was great seeing you this weekend. You did Awesome!!

Good call on the massage! We have a massage chair (I had to buy one after my other running friends moved and took theirs with them!)

Sounds like a good plan to stave off the injuries!

You are always thinking girl! A post massage is paradise! Pre race food gatherings with the gang and post race massages for the girls! Sounds like the perfect combination! You have a nice solid plan Marion for your week! Way to go!!

Les- we just all need to move into a runners paradise (55 am temp 83 degrees in the afternoon) cul de sac somewhere and then we can run together every morning and lie by the pool in the afternoon sipping our diet pepsi! Our husbands can clean out houses and then cook us an amazing grilled dinner and serve us pool side :)

Darn! You got 2 miles in! I was thinking I would win our competition.

Good job on the recovery. It sounds like a sound plan.

I'm a bit stubborn and probably won't skip unless I am VERY sick or have a broken leg or someone dies ;) But it sounds like Kelli and Leslie are taking us out to lunch soon :)

LOL - I am even stubborner. Heck - I'd do it if I was sick or someone died. It would take major surgery or a broken leg to stop me. Oh wait - I walked for weeks on a stress fracture.....

First of all, I want in on the Runners Paradise Culdesac! I can see it now! It would be so cool knocking on each others doors.... "Can I please borrow a strawberry gu and some electrolyte tabs"? and instead of complimenting each other on our Sunday apparel we would say "Nice pair of Brooks!"

Secondly, Tarzan and Marion, you are WAY to stubborn for me! I will glady buy lunch! I think I am too much of a rebel,I am always cheating and cutting corners!

The cul de sac is on! We will start taking applications immediately.

GO STUBBORN GO!!!! :D

I can't move to the cul de sac.

Odee would eat Twilight as a snack.

What if we get Twilight some platform shoes and feed him/her doggie steroids? We could get Odee on anti-psychotics :)

Great to meet you!! Burrr!! Good job getting our there despite the cold!!!

You are right on target for your recovery week. Good girl! Make the winter go away please. Think warm thoughts. Oh were going to a Hukilau!

Already out there and back at it!

hi there from will. i am typing with my moms help.

Brrr!!! Icy eyelashes and frosted hair!!! Hope you thawed out with some gourmet hot chocolates. That sound good. I think I'm gonna make me a cup.

GREAT recovery run.

I think I'll join you!

Great job, I sure hope it warms up, too! It was cold!

Hey SOWGH-

I am freezing! Let's go back to St G. why do we live here?

Way to go at Painter's! You did great! Keep up the good work. I injured my ribs by slipping and falling hard on my right side on the only patch of ice on my entire 5 mile run early last Wednesday morning. I just could not take in deep breaths without pretty bad pain. I tried light jogging in the parking lot prior to the race and knew I wasn't going to be able to do it. So I walked it, which was a great experience. I'm doing some better and have finally been able to return to running with just some discomfort. I should be doing pretty good by Moab in March. Watch out for the black ice, it will get you every time.

Thanks Artichoke- Did you know I LOVE artichokes :) DARN THAT BLACK ICE!! I am so sorry you got beat up right before Painter :( I am SO glad it was a good experience for you. Broken ribs are a real bugger! When I broke some ribs, I turned out to be allergic to the pain meds they gave me so I threw up over and over. I think that is the only thing worse than just plain broken ribs- throwing up with broken ribs :D

Way to keep going on a cooooold day!

Da Da Da Duh! (That was your dramatic music).

Hold strong! Last Long!

Getter Done! I will check back and see if you get your sunny run ( oh, that sounds familiar!)in.

Here's to a perfect day of nutrition and tons of water!!!!!

Good job Marion! You are awesome! I love your determination.

WOW!!! That is impressive that you can lie on your stomach and just disappear, you incredible shrinking woman! But I do hope you enjoyed sleeping in, it is do nice, huh??

Great eating yesterday, it all made me hungry it sounded so good! See, good food sounds good! Yeah! And chocolate (or swedish fish or candy corn or tapioca pudding or ice cream) do keep us from going over the edge!!!

Thanks for the daily motivation! I think I am going to force myself to go weigh in tomorrow no matter what the scale says!

Here is to more #'s lost for you! YEAH!!! Have a great day.

Good luck on the weigh in Kelli!

How is your nutrition coming Maurine and Marion and Kelli?

I have been good so far, I am off to fix lunch, I need something really good to keep me from snacking later today.

I just went up to Snowbird to pick up my check and it is warm and sunny and blue skys!!! Coming down into the valley was discusting.

Protein Shake after my run.

Raw oats with powdered milk, blueberries, blackberries, buckwheat (cooked in apple juice) for breakfast.

12 bean ham soup for lunch.

I am doing Ok so far, but I need lunch and am at a loss. Oooo I can have a sandwich. Whole wheat and lean ham. That will fill me up. so far I have had a bowl of cereal, an apple and an orange. I am REALLY hungry. Oh and 32 oz of water. I need 32 more and then I am good to go! and go and go and go ;) (potty, I mean ;)

What protein shake do you use? Oooh, i am going to make ham and bean soup tomorrow int he crock-pot!

Why raw oats? I cook my 6 grain rolled oat cereal in the microwave for 1.5 min and they are just tender and WARM :)

We are SO good! I had oatmeal and berries and walnuts for breakfast. An open faced turkey sandwich on w/w bread, 10 baby carrots and 1/2 mixed berries!!! I have most of my water done for the day and now I am enjoying a Big Gulp to keep me company while I run errands. Tonight I am fixing talipia ( I have never made that before) any ideas how to cook it? I could follow the directions and steamed veggies and a salad. That ought to get me down a pound if I can stay away from the Valentines Day candy Harold bought and put in a bowl in plain sight in the kitchen!

Good job Les and Maurine! Take that candy straightway and put it in Harold's car! Get thee hence SATAN!! I am SO weak right now that I just can't resist any temptation! Maybe I should hang a sign on the door when I am weak so the family doesn't bring in CRAP when I can't handle it. Who am I kidding, I almost never can handle it! ;)

My sandwich tasted like CRAP and I want the Mac and cheese I fixed the kids! :(

Raw oats - why raw oats? Because Sasha and Sarah recommended them and I like it.

I use 1 scoop of Myogenix Myolean Evolution for my protein shakes.

VERY NICE NUTRITION. I'm learning so much from all you nutrition divas. What is Myogenix Myolean Evolution? Sounds like space age food. Where do you get it. I cook my tilapia on a skillet sprayed with PAM. Cover and turn down the heat once it's turned over, sprinkle some lemon pepper. It only takes about 5 min. Then I top it with mango salsa.

Smooth- I am on my way over for dinner :)

Thanks for the recipe!! It is nice to have dinner all figured out!

Okay it is 3:33 and my nutrition is perfect so far! I have had all my water too, that is huge for me! I can hardly wait to wake up in the morning and see the scale drop. I think I am a sick woman!! hahahaha!

I just had a chocolate banana protein shake after my run. I don't know about dinner. Maybe a can of beans :) You know they are the musical fruit 8D

Hey - it is my favorite meal replacement powder. I get it at Nutrition Centers connected to Golds Gym or a lot cheaper online.

Sorry to hear about your daughter's breathing issues.

I heard the other day that the fog caused by the inversion is causing ice crystals on the road - so that is what is causing the slippery stuff.

Eek ! Ice skating?! Runners don't ice skate! (at least not on purpose!)

I guess ice is the one thing we cannot "tough out." Hope you get some better conditions soon!

You crazy girl for going out, I should beat you!!

I hope you can get Anna up to Park City soon! You should run up there Sat. with Maurine and I.

How scary about the ice. I hate it when the melt-off turns into ice overnight. What is wrong with Anna? Does she have croup or something? Let me know if we can do anything to help. Did I tell you my dad has AML? (acute myeloid leukemia) We find out more details tomorrow.

Kylee- WHAT?!? Oh no- I am SO sorry Kylee! Please let me know what you find out tomorrow! DARN IT!!!

I'm glad you didn't fall, ice is never fun! This crappy air is no fun at all, I hope you daughter will be OK.

Hey Marion! Nice run on your St. George half! You have some awesone goals this year for racing... you go girl! I like your new profile pix. Just wanted to stop in a say hi.

I have been pretty sick for sevral weeks, big bummer.

Stay warm... and don't slip on that ice, lol.

So sorry to hear about Anna's breathing (er, not breathing) problem. This pea soup air is evil. I hope the doc. has some answers.

Yikes, watch out for those ice puddles. I slipped a few times yesterday too. They're melted snow that froze overnight and do look like water. BE CAREFUL out there, IQ (ice queen)!!!

It has actually been raining down here. The cars are all ice covered and strange looking. I just got back from a meeting and everything seems to be melted now. I am looking forward to my run.

Anna is doing much better. She's a bit dramatic and just needed a new rescue inhaler :) She's back at school and everything :)

Glad to hear that Anna is doing better. Last night was awful, both my son and I had major breathing problems. Stupid inversion!!

Be careful Marion ... no falling allowed!!

I have never seen the air look so gross, EVER! It stings my eyes. Time to stay inside for sure! Hope it clears out soon for Anna, it is hard!! Good luck on your run, hopefully the ice has melted.

You are definitely not a wimp! You run in weather I wouldn't even walk outside in!

I feel ya on the food thing. My brother got me a quesadilla maker for Christmas and I am living off the things. It's gross but I can't help myself.

I plan on trying out for the Red Hot Pink Chicks at an upcoming race! If I do I'll post a picture to make it official!

Kelsey- You are going to be a FAB Red Hot Pink Chick!!! Gizmo girl makes GREAT hot pink running socks :) Good luck with the quesadilla maker. I'd feel worse for you if I didn't know you struggle to keep yourself over 100#'s ;)

Megan- YOUR ALIVE!! I am so sad that you have been sick :( That is such a bummer :( You've got some time before Boston, so hang tough sister :)

Smooth- You are my brave winter running example. You are my idol! It actually rained here in the early mornings creating an ice rink on all the walks and roads. Kinda cool so long as you don't have to go out! :) My afternoon run was 41 degrees.. NICE :) Do you realize that we are on the down side of winter :D

Kelli- Oh skinny one with GREAT hair- The roads were great this afternoon and my eyes watered less than normal. Anna is doing better, but now Mac looks like he is having an allergic reaction. WE NEED A STORM!!! (did I just say that?)

Teena- I am sorry about your kids! Kids and NOT breathing do not mix well. Thank heavens they let us have nebulizers at home these days! :) I didn't slip on my warm run this afternoon!

Lori- Thanks! How is the shin?

Sno- you are SO right- there is no toughing out an ice skating rink! ONe of my neighbors broke both of her wrists a few years ago on a day like this. There was nothing but beautiful clear roads this afternoon at 40 degrees. The air quality is HORRID, but you can't have it all! Our canyon is closed or I'd go above it all :D

Benn- funny that you mention ice skating. I actually used to compete when I was a kid. Maybe I should just break out the skates ;)

Maurine- Did you guys get rain? We had rain in the early morning and then off and on until about 1. Strange. I am not sure it helped the air quality. Hey Sasha recommend that I run my long runs at 10mm until failure and then jog the rest of the mileage. Have you tried this? Any pointers? I am a little scared :) I am going to start it next week.

Leslie- I am very tempted to join you in Park City, except I have a RS thing and I am only running 5 miles. Next week I'll be going 8 :)

PS- I love you all!!! xoxoxoxoxo

You aren't a wimp at all you are amazing! I eat like junk each and every day lol. You are entitled to a slip up now and then with all the superb stuff you do!

And yes, you should break out the skates. Full out speed skater marion that's what you'll be! Give Apollo Anton Ohno a run for his money!

I fear that skating will be just like biking- a bit scarier than I remember and a LOT faster ;)

Marion. a great Angel Food Cake - is my motivation. You are brave - I can't even make it out of my driveway without slipping all over. Phoenix was great you should consider it - it's nice to get some warmth every once in a while. It does the body good.

We did not get any of that freezing rain, I think it was just in Utah county!!

I combusted, just so you know, and I ate a bunch of Laffy Taffy and then two bowls of spaghetti and 3 granola bars. And all I can think of is that I want more food!!! Time to go to bed...

For the record, I totally think you could do 10mm, give it a try and you will see!!!

Glad you got above the muck! Those stupid neuromas! I hope you can do something about that. Negative splits! Way to go, a slow day is good, it's all good, any day we get out is good!!!! Good miles girl. How many miles are you doing tomorrow? You should come run with us in Park City!!

Good run there girl!

Have you considered having the neuroma removed? I had mine removed about 10 years ago. It actually came back and got worse for a couple of years, but then it just kind of quit hurting after a while.

Les- I am only running 5 tomorrow and I have a rs breakfast :p Why don't you guys come down and go to the breakfast with me and then we can leave early and run :D

Maurine- I don't think I will have it removed because every story I hear has them coming back :( They don't bug me during regular use, just on longer runs, usually ;) They could be extra irritated because of the shoes I wore to work this week. :o Hopefully the ice will help, and NO HOOKER SHOES!!!

Hey, you seeked higher ground. Nice negative split run there! Good Job! Sorry to hear about the neuroma. Have a great weekend and happy good eats.

Smooth- 6 grain cereal- things are looking good so far :) I have a ham bone in the crock-pot for bean soup tonight. Now if I can just get the middle parts to behave! ;)

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! I am going to shower and then read my book!

No more hooker shoes, for sure! GREAT RUN today and feel better.

Have a great breakfast tomorrow. Love those RS breakfasts!

Well, at least you don't have so much ice to deal with now. Good run!

I had to give up the hooker shoes too! I held on too long, they are evil and I am glad to be done with them forever.

Beans and hamhocks sounds so good!! We have a grandkid sleeping over, so I think it is a pizza night, and I will NOT have one single bite, I will eat something healthy! I have been so dang good and this weekend I am going to even be better, I want a 3 pound drop by Monday for the contest.

Have fun at the RS breakfast Marion and Kelli I hope you have clean air for your Riverton run.

Thanks for always making me smile, Marion! You rock! Sorry about the little bit of pain :(. Not cool! I know that it's not the main cause of it, but maybe your Asics' shoes are ready for retirement? I don't know about you, but after 460 miles, my shoes are beyond trashed I think!

Oh, and as always, props for the splits, Miss NEGATIVE SPLIT QUEEN :)

dang, dang, dang, we should have come and run with you, I am pooped and tired and have crappy miles to show for it.

Ben and Jerrys, sounds devine! I am going to try real hard and keep my mouth shut today, I have been so good, but I can tell already that it is going to be tough today, I want to just lay around and read and have treats, BUT I WON'T!!!

Nice splits girlfriend!

Indian buffet? Is that the restaurant at the old Winger's location at about 500 S Univ ave? Was it any good? I love Indian, but anything buffet is scary. Speaking of which, I keep trying to convince Paul to go to the "International" buffet by the dollar theatre, I'm sure it will be piles of junk but would be interesting to check out.

Nice run there speedy! I could use a pint of ice cream but my sin of the day was a junior whopper with cheese from burger king and fries. Shame on me but the kids had fun on the playland! It seems like weekends it gets impossible to be good so I always have atonement day on Monday!

regarding the race -

If you could get one of your teenage daughters out to watch my kidlets (for pay) I'll come and have my kids participate and I'll run the 10k. I'd be fun. Chocolate after?

Correction, it'd be fun not I'd be fun, (i'm never fun :( ).

It was GOOD and the one in the old wingers. You can order off of the menu too. What is the international buffet? We LOVE all kinds of foods, especially Thai, Japanese, Chinese and Indian. Asia is our place. If David ever needs to take additional wives, we are going to chose ones from each of those countries for the cuisine ;D Housekeeping skills will also be considered. (I am cracking myself up!) Actually David and my brother have it all planned out. They are such DORKS! The BEST thing about David is that he will go to ANY restaurant. OK- that is almost the best thing about him :)

Yes Michelle- I'll bring a sitter with me :)

April- I LOVE whoppers! They are TASTY!! Good luck with the funeral arrangements. If we lived closer, my girls could watch the kids ;)

Michelle- YOU ARE ALWAYS FUN!! and Chocolate sounds PERFECT! Can it have ice cream, and nuts all around it??? :) oh and maybe a whopper too?

Leslie- Be tough, be STRONG! YOu are one hot mama!!!

Darn - there is a training run on the 7th that I am planning on out on Antelope Island. I am going to do the Salt Lake Winter 5K next weekend if anyone is interested.

OH my gosh, I have had those silly talks too, the second wife can do all the work and cook gourmet food!! Hahaha! Just teasing folks, I hope those of you outside of Utah know we are really joking!!!!

GREAT RUN MARION! You had some good splits for today!!!

I will think about that run, we shoud support little cute Maryann!!! I just hate 5 and 10k's!!! HATE THEM!

Leslie- I hope that EVERYONE knows that we are joking. As David always says- "Man cannot serve two masters" ;)

Kelli- You can just come and get me to a sub 28 5k ;) Then I won't be the lonely VERY last runner in ;) Michelle and I are going out for chocolate afterward :)

Will run for chocolate!!!!

I am not even sure I can do a sub-28 5k. I honestly stink at short races!!!!

You can too! That's just 9:30 mm. You can do a 2 mile warm up if needed. I am going to do a one mile warm up with stretching and then 9:40, 9:30 and 9:15 to finish her off. I am such a hypochondriac when I run faster than usual. I start having a heart attack or a stroke.

Okay, I guess I COULD do that. I just hate fast races!

You can totally do it, you are fast!! I need like a 6 mile warm up!

THanks for the sunshine- but I am NOT fast and fear that I never will be until I get at least 25 more pounds off :( Oh, and it's sn-aining right now. I hope the rain wins! NO MORE SNOW!!!

Hi Marion,

Can I just say I am impressed! I checked out your meltingmarion blog and I think you're amazing! Way to go on all of your races, especially your 1/2 marathon!!!

So poetic, right up 'til the last line.

Hey little Miss Sunshine, where are your miles? 54 days!!!

You are the queen of positive thinking Marion! Send some good vibes my way! I hope your running week is fabulous!

Les- this is Sundays entry- don't I get a day off??? ;) 5 miles on the treadmill for Monday :( 8-10 inches of snow over night :(

Burt- I know- the poet in me does not surface for long! ;D

Lucia- (((((hugs)))))) Hang tough sister :D

You lost me girl, or you are lost???

I haven;t entered my monday entry yet :) I just got home from work ;) The above entry is from Sunday.

Hey Marion, you're super-diet woman. I have a question for you. I know I'm not listaed as one of 'Favorite Blogs', so you probably don't follow my blog too close. But if you did, you would notice that I've lost 21 lbs. since the beginning of the year. I've noticed though, sometimes when I stand up too quick, there's a big loss in blood pressure or something, because I feel faint. Am I starving myself too much? Am I lacking the proper protein? Sugar? There is a history of diabetes in my family.

You are too, one of my fav's! Are you blind??? (jk- I have added you before as "burt" and it did not work, cause I needed the -mcumber part too ;)

WOW- 21 pounds in a month is a TON- it may be too fast, but here are a few questions.. #1 are you hungry? If so add in more whole grains and lean proteins. #2- is it just when you stand too quickly???

The dizziness is due to a drop in blood pressure when you rise. It is not harmful unless you pass out and crack your head open ;) You are probably losing too fast and your body is not having enough time to adjust. Caffeine will help raise your blood pressure. ;) DIET PEPSI FOREVER!!! (the doc prescribed this for me ;) Your body will adjust to the new weight and the dizziness will subside. Just take care and drop to the ground if you think you might be going out cold. I did this at work in November once. I stood up from a squatting position (the worst) and took two steps and went totally black. I dropped myself to the floor as fast as I could and stayed there until the lights came back on. slowly rising of course.

1. I do get hungry, but I tell myself to go drink some water. 2. Yeah, it's basically when I stand too quickly and sometimes it's anytime that I stand. It hasn't happened for a couple of days, but I think it's because I've been eating a bit more. Plus I've snuck a few M&M's.

It's REALLY important that you are getting enough nutrients. So, if you are hungry, be sure to eat! It can be fruit, veggies, whole grain's or lean protein. Even a glass of skim or 1% milk. You don't have to pig out, but you are a running machine and need to feed the machine. After the first 3 weeks or so, you should never lose more than an average of 2 pounds a week. If you are still losing more than 2 a week, PLEASE increase the food in take to slow the loss to NO more than 2 lbs a week.

PS- M&M's are not bad for you and it is really important that you stay satisfied- both physically and mentally. You will not stick with any plan that is too restrictive. As you spend more and more time eating healthfully and being active, you will, over time, crave less and less of the crap-o-la! They wont go away, and they shouldn't, but they won't rule the roost like they used too :) PROGRESS, sweet progress :)

WOW!!! You're WW QUEEN too!!! GREAT education there on nutrition and weight management. YOU ARE SO FUN and POSITIVE and role model of SUCCESS!!!

I am a professional, you know ;) lol- Love you Smooth!- you too Burt.

Burt- I keep leaving the R out of your name and am cracking myself up! ;)

Just don't replace it with another T!

So, two years ago when I went on another crash diet for two months, I was losing about 5 lbs. a week. That was bad, I guess.

OK Marion - now respost this on Sunday so we can see your real Monday entry.

TArzan- Alright- I am a moron! I thought I did. Apparently I need more rest!

Burt- I am not going to say it is "bad" but it is not a very healthy rate of loss after the first few weeks. The main problem with "crash dieting" is that it is too restrictive and you are not able to live that way for very long. For long term loss, you need to find a plan that is livable, sustainable, one that can become second nature. Sure, once you get to your goal weight, you will be able to increase your intake of food a bit, but hopefully, you have learned some GREAT healthy habits along your weight loss journey that will help you keep the weight off. Slow and steady wins the race. Livable, sustainable, this is the best focus :)

I am enjoying your comments! Thanks for all the tips. I guess I should be happy with a 1.5 loss in one week, the secret is to to not gain and lose and the same 1.5 OVER and OVER again!!

1.5 loss ROCKS!!! .5 ROCKS!!! You are exactly right, you just have to keep moving down, even if it is slow!

It took me 5 months to lose 15 pounds. Talk about slow.

Way to go April! My last 5 took me about 7 months! ARGG!!! They probably would have come off faster if I didn't eat oatmeal cookies for lunch ;)

Yeah if I could really hardcore diet it would probably have gone faster--but I have a serious sweet tooth and I have to keep it satisfied--not to mention I like to eat! I don't do well with calorie restriction!

April- you hit the nail right on the head. We have to live our lives with freedom AND some treats! Slow and satisfied is WAY better and long lasting! :)

I've updated my blog entry for Monday. You've got to go and see my treadmill distraction ;)

Ohhh - poor little guy! It's a good thing you were home. (good excuse to get off the 'mill, I suppose)

I know it's kinda lame, but ANY excuse to get off the treadmill! I am such a WIMP!!! Why is the treadmill SO rotten hard for me to stay on????

Make him eat 5 more, just to make sure.

Burt- Interesting idea, but I think we will wait for a few weeks and go over to the Doc's and give him one there ;) Boring, I know, but considering how cute he is, we'll take the conservative route ;)

Corrine, my sister, gave me a GREAT new recipe. We are having it for dinner. Put a pound of dry black beans in your crock pot. Cook them on high until they are cooked ;) Drain the water and pour a jar of your favorite salsa on top. Cook on low for a few hours to all day ;)

Cook your rice in the rice cooker, or wherever, in broth of choice. Just before serving add one bunch of cilantro, chopped.

YUMMY rice and beans!!!

Oranges?? Weird!

Hope you talked yourself into those miles little lady!

Oranges give my girlfriend a migrain... weird is right!

Hope the poor little guy is OK.

He's doing GREAT!! I gave him a antihistamine and washed him off really well. The swelling went down really fast. :D

oh I did Kelli- every last crappy one!!

There seems to be a bad case of the treadmills going around.

It's bad around here. I think we are just all wanting to get warm again!!!

We don't nearly as much snow as you have, but it is cooooold.

You didn't force an orange on Mac to get out of working out today, did you?

At least the treadmill keeps your new shoes clean. :) My new shoes were ruined by the icky slush/snow/ice today. {{{sigh}}} No forcing oranges on Mac, just give them all to me, I'm not allergic to 'em. I LOVE oranges!

I need 5 miles and I also slept in today. Now it is cold, dark, and blowing snow so it looks like I have to hit the treadmill too. Misery loves company? ;-)

Hi Marion,

The screw shoes really do work. I've done three runs in them of 8,8, and 10 miles in icy and snowy conditions. I do use a cushion insert in my tennis shoe when I wear them just because I thought my shoes did not have that thick of soles.

If you want to see a pic and instructions, I posted them on my other blog at:

http://irishblue.blogspot.com/2009/01/snow-snow-everywhere.html

Several other runners in my running club also wear them, as does my husband who wore his to run outside tonight.

Melisa

Thanks Melisa. I saw them online at the beginning of the winter and had not found a runner who had tried them. I may try them on some old shoes to see what I think :) Thanks for the link :D

Smooth- sorry about your new shoes. I bet they are still so cute and tiny ;) Unlike my BOATS!

Maurine- Mac will not touch an orange now, even to get me out of treadmill running ;)

Carolyn- I am sorry about the cold! It's supposed to warm up to 38 by the end of the week ;)

This weather is miserable and rotten! I really hope you come out and run with us Sat.!!!!

thanks for stopping your run early to play with me, marion doesn't not like the tread mill she just wanted to hang with me.

Corrine- YOU RATTED ME OUT! ;D Now everyone knows I bailed to play with my sister! It was worth it! I am SO glad you moved here to entertain me :) xoxoxoxoxo

Congratulations on getting outside!

An easy month sounds like a really good idea.

I concure, agree, amen, echo, nod my head to what you said. YES, no FREAKING out if we don't get our miles in, RECOVERY is GOOD, PAIN FREE ROCKS!!! INJURY FREE RULES SUPREME!!!

BTW, AWESOME 5 miler and conquering the BEAST, so GLAD you were able to get outside before another stinkin' storm hits.

Yes, have a great recovery month!!! You have been busting your fanny and deserve it.

I am jealous you went outside, I am sorta enjoying the warm cozy gym now.

Recovery sounds good, enjoy it!

Are you still thinking of joining us Sat.? Bring Rinny along!!

Call me if you have any questions. Would 7:30 work?

You are awesome. 30-35 miles a week sounds incredible, way more then I am doing right now (or have done for a while), so I am very impressed. Enjoy your recovery month. See you Saturday!

Way to go!!! running outside and beating the BEAST! Staying injury free is my goal also... as soon as I'm injury free LOL

Way to go getting outside and getting it done! I wimped out, still being paranoid about slipping on the ice again, but hope by Friday, unless we get more bad weather. You're mileage is great! Keep it up and Ogden 1/2 will be a breeze for you.

Sorry, that last comment was from me. I'm here multi-tasking and not paying attention. Keep up the great work!

Consistency is the key, and you've been more consistent than most (including myself). Rest up, stay healthy, and you'll be ready to blast some races in the spring!

Great Pace!!! You braved the elements too! Have a fabulous day, and I am going to try your bean recipe too, sounds good and easy!

Good job in being nice and consistent!

Have a good meeting--I will check out your recipes--I am looking for recipes that involve beans--meat is so expensive!

Great job getting your miles in. I love your blog!!!!!

Great wok, Marion! You are so consistent, I love it. It makes you all the more impressive!

GOOD JOB, Marion! You have such great recipes. Now if I would find the time to shop and cook; my family would be soooo happy.

great miles marion, mandy is here somewhere!

Thanks everyone! I am POOPED and going to bed!

Go see my SIL Mandy, she's new and needs a shout out!! :)

You guys are the BEST!!! xoxoxoxo

Maybe the beep was some young stud honking at you.

Great miles, I love those "don't look at your garmin days"!

ARe you going to come run with us tomorrow? You know you do, bring Rinny and come play with us!

NICE run. Have a fun lunch. See you tomorrow. Can't wait!!!

Burt- that's a nice idea, I will pretend that is what it was ;)

Leslie- I am not going to be making it in the AM. I have been playing all day with my SIL and so I need to be home with the chillin's for as much as possible tomorrow :)

Smooth- I can't wait to see y'all too! I am REALLY excited :)

Hey, that's how my husband talk too, "chillin's" for children. Is that a Utah thing? O my heck! Stinks how you have to make up your girl-out time with extra chillin's time. OK, not stinks, but that's part of being a mom. Have fun with the chillin's.

I don't know if Chillin' is Utahn- I'm not from here, but I could have picked it up ;) Yeah- I don't "have" to make up for girl time out, but I try not to let my hobbies rule to roost too much. I am a very "unnatural" mom and so I have to check myself a ton to make sure that I am actually being a mom and not just a boarder. I'm afraid that I'd go and run with y'all every day and never come home again. It has been SO long since I have had a hobby that is ALL about me :) I am sure loving it!

Amen girl!!! I was a mom forever. The chillin's are more like boarders now that they are grown. I wish I HAD a hobby. I think I would be a happier mom if I did. My chillin's don't know what to think of my new hobby. I have more medals and trophies than them, imagine that. And I am loving it while it lasts.

Great week MARION! I hope that you had a great lunch.

Helen Reddy singing in the background....

I am dork, watch me run,

I get blinded by the sun,

I forget to charge or turn on watches each day.....

I am a dork! Great song. I love Helen Reddy :)

Nice pace!!!! See you tonight!!!

Great effort Marion! Way to go on the pressing the pace.

Nice effort, I guess it's to know when failure is :)

AWESOME tempo run. Yup, marathon pace is gonna feel very slow for you. I just cannot see "failure" in you. It doesn't belong in your vocabulary or fit your positive vivacious personality. Sasha needs to name it something else, may be like 10mm to jello legs? or 10mm to cookie dough?

We had a blast tonight. You're a great cook. I can seriously just live on your salad alone and the dream cookies are to run for. We are getting together for a group run, yeah?

Marion,

Those cookies were HEAVENLY!! I am usually not a cookie-type girl, mostly just like cookie dough ... but those were unbelievable!! YUMMY!!

It was great to see you and meet David.

Hope you have a fantastic Sunday!

We had the BEST time last night with y'all. thanks so much for a great time. You guys missed the really fun game we played. ;) I got into bed at 12:40. I am off to take a nap!

It was great to see you and David last night! Loved the salad and cookies.

One thing about those tempo runs is they are training your body to deal with the lactic acid buildup and things. You will find as you do them more, that you body will adjust more. (Easy to say - not fun to do).

Try to do those on a flat marked stretch. Borrow a wheel from us or Michelle, or Jamie, or buy your own, and measure out a flat course marking every quarter mile. There are 1320 feet in a quarter mile, 2640 in a half, and 5280 in the mile. GPS is not reliable enough for tempo runs. You never know if it is your speed that has changed, or if it is just the GPS error. The reason for flat - after a lot of practice of running hard you do not need to practice even effort because you already know it. So it does not matter if you run up, down, flat, or rolling - you can use your feel of effort to evaluate the grade of the hill, and if you know how fast you actually ran up that hill you'll get the grade measurement with quite a bit of accuracy. But if you are not used to running hard, you need to learn even steady effort, and monitoring your pace on a flat course that is well marked is essential. Also, the measurement of the failure is more accurate. It is defined as failing to break 2:30 over a quarter two or three times in a row in spite of your best effort. You will not stop your tempo run early because your GPS goes on a blitz for a minute or two and tells you you are running 10:45 when in reality you are still running 10:00.

Thanks Sasha. I have SO much to learn and really appreciate all of your help. I rely on the garmin so much because it is easy and I am able run anywhere the wind takes me ;)

I don't know how many miles you feel like you have in you, but I am always the slowest for the first mile or two. It sounds like you might be in the same boat since you're talking about starting slow. But if you feel like you can handle it, you might want to run a mile really slowly right before the race rather than having the slow mile be part of your race. I suggest doing that if you feel like you can knock out three faster miles after a really slow easy mile warm-up. Just my two cents. Good luck with your race in any case.

You go for it girl! It's always better to run negative splits (which I know you don't have a problem with NS Queen!). Plus it will be awesome to be speeding up at the end when everyone else is slowing down! Go get 'em!

A 5k is so fast (relative to 1/2 marathon). Expect it to be fast and painful. If you're not at least uncomfortable, if not in pain, by the first mile marker, I'd say you are not racing a 5k. I wouldn't purposely go out much slower than your goal pace. Make sure you do some strides before the race to help warm up. Some also advocate small tempos within a warm up. Maybe you are a runner who needs that. So perhaps warm up 1 mile slow, then .5 mile at 5k goal pace, then .5 mile easy, then stretch and strides, starting all of this 1 hour before race time so you have at least 10-15 minutes between the tempo in the warm up and the actual race. I have never tried it, but I have read about it and it may work for you.

Ok Michelle. I am going to try that. Now please define the strides, remember I am a couch potato in transition to runner amazon goddess and am not too hip on runner lingo. ( I did get the tempo in the warm up and I know the stretches ;) Are strides just slower sprints?

strides - 20-30 seconds or so at 1 mile pace. Not sprinting because it is controlled and sustainable. In a stride, logistically, you are increasing speed the first part (10 sec), then maintaining (10-20 sec). You should do them in your training within an easy run at least once a week. Start with 4 and work up the number you do over time. I would do 4 within a run this week to try them out.

That is what I thought they were. I am not as illiterate as I thought :) I have done them and like them a lot. I have done 100 steps at a time. It was doing them that I learned I can't run and count past 50. I also count with my eyes closed. It was pretty funny. I am an official running dork!

So maybe I will do strides on Wed or thurs and then on my long runs I will do the 10 mm to failure thing. That will constitute my "speed" work for until the 1/2 in may? What do you think??

I think strides don't really count as a hard workout, so there's room for another hard workout in your schedule (just what you wanted to hear!!!). You could also do 2 mile repeats (start with 2x2 miles, with .5 mile in between, @ 9:50 pace or so). Doing just one type of speed work is not really ideal. That's why doing this 5k this weekend will be a great thing. You have to mix it up.

You will do great! That is all I have to say!

Kelli- Thanks for the AWESOME party last night. I hope we didn't keep you guys up too late. We had a really good time! Your home is so beautiful!

Michelle- Keep the coaching coming on! I need all I can get and you are so nice to help me. Do you take payment in cheesecake?? So the 2x2's are 2 miles at 9:50, .5 mile recovery then 2 more miles at 9:50? (with 1 mile warm up and one cool down?) Now for this Sat, I need 10 miles. So I do 1 mile + change for warm up. 3.1 for the race and then 6 mile after the race, poky like?

I think of a 5k like this:

Adrenaline gets me through the first mile

Guts and pain gets me through the second mile(I think to myself "this is not as bad as labor and over much sooner")

The prospect of getting it over with as soon as possible gets me through the third mile

Okay keep in mind I have only run one official 5k!

You will do great!

Funny you mention labor. My last labor was shorter than my first and second 5k :)

you will so be able to do it marion you rock.

i didn't labor at all for my last three :)

Well, if you do a little mini tempo in your warm up, then your warm up would be more like 2 miles, which I think is a minimum for a race shorter than a 1/2 marathon, so I'd say 2, then 3.1, then 4.9 after the race.

Thanks Marion! You sure are a fun and social person! I enjoyed reading all the comments for this day!

It is all about perspective I guess! Labor with my daughter was 27 back-breaking hours and they still ended up cutting her out!

Marion - I think you should do a good warmup and then stick with me as long as you can. I thought I was pushing hard the first mile on my 5K PR, but actually found I could go faster as I settled in.

We could run pokey together afterwards on the Provo River Trail if you want ;)

You guys are making me want to give this a real try! All this fast talk is getting to me.

April- That labor sounds HORRID! Dang it! Perspective, I will try to get some :)

Leslie- You know you want to come!!! :)

Maurine- I'd love to run with you! Can you come early for the warm up? I think it will be great for me to try to keep up with you :D

Corrine- You should come and do it. Make Mandy come too :)

Mary Ann- Thanks :) You are a sweetie!

Michelle- THANK YOU SO MUCH for all of your great coaching. I am going to follow your advice :) Those 5 after are going to be lousy ;)

Yes, I will come early to run with you.

Give yourself a slap aside the head and do an attitude adjustment - the 5 after are going to be great because you will have a new PR, win your age group, and I will run ahead of you with chocolate at certain intervals.

Just don't expect me to wear pink!

Awe common Maurine- you'd be SO cute in pink!!! YOu are right, we are going to have a GREAT 5 miler :) I am going to be at the race start at 10- isn't the race at 11? Does that work for you?

Marion, you are going to do great. I love reading Michelle's coaching. I've only done one 5K race, the Art City Days in Springville in June last year. It was raining. I didn't know what kinda warm up to do. Luckily a friend was there and we ran some strides together for less than 0.5 mile opposite of and behind the start line. When the gun went off I just took off like I stole something. Around mile 2 I wanted to quit or slow down so bad. I didn't like all that heavy breathing and the "stampede". But I told myself to get out of my marathon mode; just hang on with dear life, it'd be over before you know it. Let me tell ya, the pain was great but SHORT. I'd wet my shorts if I had to run another lap. I ended up taking 1st place in my AG. Your body is ready, Marion, for the 5K. At around mile 2 when you feel like heck, tell yourself you're tough, it's gonna be over before you know it and keep pushing. YOU ARE GOING TO DO GREAT!!!

Thanks Smooth! I had no idea when I started to run 3 years ago that it was so darn complicated :) This is the BEST hobby ever! I am SO happy I started to run :D xoxoxoxo

Great miles! I can picture right where you ran, by our old horse ranch. Flat is right :)

yes it is FLAT!! :)

Marion, was that a tempo run? Those middle miles paces are very steady and even. I'll bet if you do that often enough, you'll see improvement in no time.

Great weather for your run, yeah???? Good job!

Smooth- that run was a major fluke! I cannot be that consistant even if I try.

Kelli- the weather was perfect. It felt SO good!

Nice run! I want some orange smoothie! I just had cold pizza after my run... probably not the best thing for me :(

Lori- Hola! And to top off my orange protein smoothie I had whole wheat pita bread, cut up fresh veggies and home made hummus for dinner. (I also had a few diet pepsi's too with sugar free vanilla flavoring )

Wow I need to check out some of your healthy eating recipes--I need some new ideas!

I got the Hummus and pita recipe from MichelleL. I can forward her email to you. PM me if you'd like it :)

Yeah!! Those are great splits. Flat or not, be darn proud of yourself!! Oooh, that protein shake sounds really good and I am not even hungry right now!! I am going to your website right now to get some of those recipes!! Great run today Marion!!!

You are making me miss my running friend :( It has been FORREEEEVVVVER since I have been able to run with her. I hope this spring she will be back on the roads with me.

Rub it in with all you good eatn' Man I need to get my head on straight and loose some weight :(

You had a pretty fast mile there! Have fun today and enjoy the celebration. :)

I was dodging cars, as usual :)

I bet that feels good to have your run done for the day so early! Have fun partying with your sis!!

I just looked at your blog, fantastic job on the weight loss, I love stories like this, keep it up and you also have some very good music on the blog... good luck with the running this year!

Way to get you miles in!!! Have a great day with your sis!

Yay, you got'er done early. Have FUN partying with Corrine. Wish her an extra happy birthday from me. :)

Great run again! I love those take it easy days!!! You are going to be so great in your 5k, I can not wait to see the results.

Thanks Cg- it is really cool to look back at the past pictures :)

thanks ladies :) We had a great time at lunch with Corrine today.

great job getting out there! i can't even get out of bed that early right now, let alone to run in freezing weather.

i plan to audition for the red hot pink chicks this weekend! do i have to wear both hot pink and red at the same time? ohhh or i can wait until my valentines day race so i look extra valentinesy!

Sorry to hear you are not feeling well. Good job on working out.

Hey, you take care today, get some rest and don't even think about more miles!!!! You need to be fresh for Sat. You will love running with Maurine, she is a super pacer, she got me thru a great run this morning. Chill on the couch girl with a good book or DVD!! Thats an order!!!

Oh dear. Too much cake? Good for you, getting out there at all! Enjoy a day of rest.

I fear it was too many Cadbury Mini eggs and a HUGE amount of stress. Oh and a bit of sushi too. Not a great combo! :P

Yesterday I took my vanilla slim fast, threw it in the blender with some ice and an orange - it wasn't great. Kind of stringy.

Sorry Burt- it can be a bit pithy, but I don't mind :) You can use a bit of orange juice concentrate :)

You got your two in any way---you have by far kicked all of out butts in the competition! Hope you feel better quickly! Enjoy your rest.

MMMMM Cadbury Mini eggs... but the combo is definately not good LOL. Hope you get feeling better soon. Take it easy :)

Marion, sorry the tummy was a stinker. Yes, rest is good. Detox from the stress and Cadbury mini eggs is good too. Do some yoga and curl up on the couch with a book. Baby yourself a little, you BEAUTIFUL!!! P.S. Larry commented to me what a beautiful girl you are and I concur.

Tell Larry thanks... I am blushing now.. you to are way too kind. I actually need to brush my teeth and hair right now, but who cares for today. I do have to head off to work in a bit. I have done ALL the laundry today and took apart the dishwasher. I think I put it together correctly. I hope so :)

Lori- I have another bag and I am giving it to my friend for her birthday!

Don't you hate when the weather is inviting but the bod is not? but...soon enough we'll be Hot Pink Chicks again. Did you know I wore hot pink tech shirt in the SGM? also a plastic bag on my head. Last week I finally met up with a Dr./friend I passed in the SGM. He mentioned the plastic bag (I passed him at mile 18), darn it and not the hot pink shirt. Come on!! Why am I on this subject when I was just writing to sympathize with your tummy? I still have a headache and when I do, I don't think well, so hence the carrying on. Happy forthcoming Thursday. Here's hoping to a good run. PS I am almost done with the fourth and final book. I should be back to normal soon. We know what lack of sleep can do to our heads. Hope you get a good eight hours or more in!!

Julie- It's 9:17 and I am going to bed! I hope you sleep well too. I HATE NO SLEEP! RED HOT PINK CHICKS FOREVER!!! (plastic sack optional ;)

2 is way better than nothing. Good job getting out, especially when you aren't feeling well. Get better girl!!

I am all healed today! It is amazing what a solid nights sleep can do :) Maybe it was the 4 brownies I had last night for dinner?

HAHAH so funny you are, Marion! "a major sense of modesty that she did not get from me". HAHA You're a funny one! ;) Hope the dress shopping goes well!

Good run today! Hope your shoes are not the problem, but then, I hope you can figure out what the problem is. LOL

Good luck dress shopping. Where can you find cute modest dresses that dont' make a huge dent in your wallet? When you find out let me know... or what size is you daughter and maybe we can swap dresses!

Lori

Shopping, fun!!! Have a great time. You can count all the mall walking in your miles :)

Hey, we are in the same boat only I am shopping for a semi-formal and I have to work on the modesty thing with my child! Have fun shopping, great workout today, and SO glad that the brownies made you feel all better today!

You got your miles in, good girl! Have fun with your daughter today!!

I just noticed we both have the same amount of miles for the year! Yay us!

I hear you on the ruts from the tires. I sometimes run on a specific dirty trail and last Saturday it was all rutted and frozen that way from bikes and a truck having driven on it when the previous snow was melting. No fun.

As for the dress, I'm glad my teenagers are boys. I don't have to deal with a teenage girl for a few more years. My oldest has a tux for orchestra and he just wears that, but with a different shirt and vest/tie when he goes to a dance.

I hate to run on rutty stuff. I think you have to wear trail shoes for that or risk twisting an ankle.

Have fun shopping for formals. I'm glad my teenager is a boy.

I just signed up for the race on Saturday! Have you?

I emailed Mary Ann my info because I have a coupon for a free race. :)

PASTA!

Something high in carbs.

No junk food.

Marion - for a 5K - I wouldn't worry about it. Just what you would normally do for a long run day.

If it was a half marathon or marathon - then I would worry about my diet.

Thanks Burt! I will have some pasta for lunch and dinner and NO junk food :(

Thanks Maurine. I am just SO tired today and sluggish. I did eat total CRAP on my date night with Anna. I am sure that is the problem this morning.

I just make sure not to eat anything that might cause surprise bowel movements. The real question is, what do I eat AFTER a race? Anything I want! Yeah! Race day is fun!

April, I like the way you think! :)

Pasta primavera, mac and cheese or a cheese and tomato sandwich are my favorite meals before a race.

Good luck on the race! You'll smoke that course!

Marion,

GOOD LUCK on your race tomorrow!!! You're gonna do GREAT!!!

For 5K, I don't worry about carb load. I just eat what I always eat before I run, yogurt, banana, cereal. Eat whatever you're used to that don't cause extra pit stop. I do suggest eating dinner a little earlier tonight to ensure plenty time for complete digestion.

Thanks :) I just needed a reminder. We went out for lunch instead of dinner tonight and I will eat a small dinner :) THANKS!!!! xo

bananas. the race-day superfood.

Thanks Allie- I am out of bananas and I do love them for race day.

The race is not until 11- I usually eat a 1/2 bagel and a banana a few hours before the race start. With the race being so late in the morning, I am not sure if I should eat more?

Your best pace is great and you held it for a bit---AWESOME!

Have a great race tomorrow, I can not wait to read about it.

Good luck tomorrow, run like the wind girl!!!! Just don't eat M&M's tonight, that is my only bit of wisdom to offer!

Some carbs, but not much the day before anything shorter than a half marathon. Race morning I always have a PowerBar about two hours before or maybe a bagel if I have more time than that. I stay away from carbonated drinks for a couple of days. Good luck. Thanks for your comment about running with dogs. I'm going to do better and get her out at least one or two days a week for starters.

I can't wait to see how you do!

Way to get under 30 minutes! That's awesome!

You're lucky to leave near so many bloggers.

Good luck with the tamales.

Marion!!!! I want to be the first to congratulate you on your EXCELLENT performance today. YOU ROCK GIRL!!!! AWESOME JOB!!! I'm most impressed that you tagged on more AFTER the race. CONGRATS on taking 9th overall. SWEET!!!

Yes, I believe you're experiencing a breakthrough in your training. Your muscles will remember how to run fast. Your weekly speed work is going to be awesome. I am SO SO SO proud of you. Keep it up baby.

O, I love your pre-race dreams. FUNNY!!! I've had some outrageous ones. Crazy how our brains never really "sleeps". Again, GOOD JOB!!!!

Way to go Marion! You are getting faster and faster! I'll be curious to see what you Onion Days time ends up being. Keep it up, you are awesome.

Carolyn- I do feel lucky. I was telling Maurine that it would be awesome to all live next door to each other up against the Provo river trail. We could run together all the time. I am guessing that this is what heaven will be like :)

Smooth- you are too sweet! I don't know where the 9th place came from. I must be delirious :) Thanks so much for your encouraging words. I do feel like my body is finally getting used to this running stuff. I sure love it a TON more than I did even 6 months ago. Someday I will hopefully be able to catch you :)

Thanks Michelle :) Slow and steady.... :D

Nice job. I especially like how you kept contact with Maurine for the first mile and got a 9:06, very gutsy. Did you do the mini tempo in the warm up, and if so, did you like it? The "salted" part of the hot chocolate is throwing me off, it wasn't too salty?

So how many women were behind you in the race? :)

YOU WERE FLYING GIRL!!!!! Way to go!!!!! I am so proud of you!! All your hard work is paying off!! I wish that Maurine would post, I am anxious to see her time. YOu girls ROCK!!! Isn't it nice to know racing season is just starting and you have got such a strong base? Ya gotta love it!!!

Michelle- I missed you today. WAs the rs thing good? ;) There were women behind me, but I don't know how many. I am waiting for Mary Ann to post the results. The salted caramel is wonderful. It's kind of like kettle corn. I really like it :) It does not taste too salty at all. We'll have to hit Starbucks some time and have one :) We did not get the temp in. I was kind of a anxious mess this morning. I almost cried like 3 times before I got there. I don't know what my problem is. I was kinda glad that the race was crappier than I had hoped. If I had PR'd I would have been a blubbering idiot! This week has been WAY too stressful and I am a total boob!

Leslie- Thanks honey! I missed you! I am very excited for the racing season :)

Great run Marion!! Congrats.

MMMM tamales. I had leftovers. And not good ones.

Kelsey- I have been roasting peppers, onions and garlic and my house smells WONDERFUL! I sure hope they turn out :)

You did so great!!! That is an awesome PR for you, I am so happy!!! Enjoy the rest of the day and take it easy (and, yes, run with the not wanting food---it is not worth eating it and getting sick!)

Great effort Marion! I'm really proud of you. You were willing to try something different and that was great. It is only by experimenting that you will know what works best for you.

Thanks for running with me!

Way to go Marion! Bold first mile and nice finish time!

Awesome Race. I enjoy reading success stories like yours. It is very inspirational! Keep it up!

Congrats! Stick some tater tots in the tamales for me.

Way to go girl! I had a strong feeling that you'd break 30 minutes but didn't want to jinx it so I didn't say it! The pre-race dreams are hilarious too, loved the afro one... Oh, and that salty chocolate from Starbucks is sooooo good!

Congratulations!!!

I guess I won my age division after all. I am quite shocked. There were 5 women in my group 31-45. I may fall over and die! I don't think I will believe it until it is officially posted. Mary Ann, the race director, just emailed me. HOLY CRAP!!!

THANKS EVERYONE!!

Can I officially say "I TOLD YOU SO"?!

I will gladly accept your "I told you so!" :D I just don't believe it. It can't be true. And if it is... where is my $2 ??? JK- my Hot Chocolate was the BEST prize ever :)

Way to go Marion! Especially reading through the comments and finding out you won your division?! You are an inspiration to all of us! I am so excited and anxious to see what 2009 has in store for you!

Phew! If you are already accomplishing stuff like this now, just wait til you get in the 40s and 50s for mileage! You are going to be smokin' past all of us slow turtles! Woot!

Hmm I want to figure out how to harness your energy for running and Brent's determination in biking and create a super triathlete.. Or at least harness that power to run my house. You'd think someone would invent a treadmill/wind trainer you can hook up to recharge a battery or something that you could use to do simple household chores, i.e. run a coffeepot, the washing machine, cook a turkey dinner :-P

I just looked at MaryAnne's rules and she changed them when she switched to less races. You have to be the top scorer in your age division and go to a dinner to win anything (other than the admiration of Tarzan). Since we aren't racing the whole series - that won't amount to much (except for old woman me - since no one ever shows up in my age group)

That is awesome!! I do have to say that you have funny dreams. Also, I am not sure how many days you do speed work, but from my understanding you should only do one to two day a week of speed work. But, if you schedule allows for it to run more miles. Anyway, that is my two cents. You had a great race and a great place, congratulations!!!

Thanks BArry- I have been only increasing my miles and just am starting with one day of speed a week. I Have been injury free for about 6 months and am hoping that my mileage base is good enough for the speed :)

****WOO HOO***** Awesome job!!! Congrats on your PR!!!!!!!! I'm sooooooo happy for you.

Benn- anything harnessed from me would lead to a psychotic break and possibly some sort of crack in the atmosphere ;) I am truly insane. Although the tamales I made tonight for dinner were a huge hit!

Jodi- Thanks so much :)

Lucia- Thanks for not jinxing me :) The tamales were FANTASTIC!! I forgot to get the stuff to the cherry garcia. I am going to have to try that one next sunday :)

Tamales? I don't think I've ever had them before. They sound Spicy! Wish me luck. I am going to try to go out and jog tomorrow :)

Marion - I think you need to change your blog title. Don't put yourself down. You have come a long way and are still making great progress. Get that stinking thinking out of here.

AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME!!!!

Did I mention how AWESOME that was!!! Congrats on an AWESOME race Marion. You deserve every ounce of that first place! LOVE IT!!!

Tamales are one of the great pleasures in life Benn. Green chile variety are my fav.

Maurine - don't take her seriously. There's danger in taking any blog title too seriously. Marion is plenty fast enough for today, but we all want to be a little faster tomorrow, right?

Benn- You must go out and have one today :)

Maurine- The blog title cracks me up. Think SNL and the positive affirmations skits. IT seriously makes me smile :)

Michelle-I made green chili and pork tamales. Come by and grab a few for dinner. They are YUMMY!!!

I know it makes me even more of an anomoly - but I have never seen SNL.

Teena- THANKS so much! :D

Maurine- seriously- you have never seen it? Wow :)

Marion - I watch CSI and - if I am really bored - occasionally NUMB3RS. Other than that, I rarely turn on a tv. Not even very much as a kid.

I'm a bookworm.

Besides, I'm usually asleep by around 10 - even on weekends.

We love Numb3rs. It is one of our favorites :)

Wow MARION! You are the CHAMP! Congrats on a great time and your AD WIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIN! You totally deserve it.

It is so hard to lose a parent. I hope she finds peace. And you as well. :)

good run and I am so sorry to hear about kylee's dad. so sad.

sorry to hear about Kylee. Good job getting the run in!

Thanks guys :) I spoke to Kylee this morning and she is doing alright. I am officially pooped out and going to have a huge glass of water and fold some laundry :)

Oh - you were telling me about this on Saturday. That's too bad. Please pass on my condolences.

Yeah, Kylee texted me while we were at Sarah's to tell me that they were sending him home from the hospital.

Good run Marion, please let your SIL know that she is in my thoughts. Loosing loved one is difficult.

Nice recovery run. So sorry to hear about Kylee's dad. It's so hard to loose someone you love so deeply. May she and your family feel the comforting peace of the Holy Ghost during this time of mourning.

I am sorry to hear the news too, I wish her peace and comfort at this time.

Way to get out there after that speedy race, I was tired for 3 days after Maurine kicked my butt last Wed. and I am going to try it again, those 5K's are brutal. You really did great! Enjoy your recovery!

Thanks Les- I really just want some candy! I want some REALLY bad, like break into the chocolate chips bad!

Everyone- thanks so much. Kylee is doing pretty well this morning. The funeral will be saturday. They got engaged on Valentines DAy. Elder Bednar spoke at Kylee's mom's funeral. I wonder if he will be there for Bob's?

I just read about recovery pace, easy pace and long pace. It was on mcmillanrunning.com.

For me, baced on my most recent 5k, I should run

Recovery jogs at 12:31-13:01

Long runs- 11:31- 12:31

Easy runs 11:30-12:01

Tempo runs- 10:01-10:27

My next question is when is the recovery run to be done vs the easy day???

Mon- recovery day if Sat was a bum kicker?

tues- easy day

wed- tempo day

thurs- recovery day

fri- easy day

Sat- long run day??

OR

Mon rec

tues-fri easy

sat Long run- tempo to failure as Sasha prescribed???

Very interesting, but I will let the experts respond, I will be waiting to see what is said. Thanks Marion, and you stay out of those Choc. Chips sister!! :)

Marion,

I should have come over to your blog. I left a bunch of responds on my blog. K, here's what I think.

Where in the training cycle are you at? Are you building base miles? If you've already reached weekly 35-40 miles; then you're ready to run a variety of workouts.

I classify my easy days as days where I do the maintenance miles, general aerobic runs. They reinforce the physiological benefits of your long runs.

My recovery days vary depending on the kind of workouts before and after. The pace is run depending on how the body feels, the distance is always short; or limited to 45 min. of running. After a marathon, I like to take couple recovery days; e.g. a 2 mile walk on Sunday, 2 mile jog on Mon. and resume recovery run on Tue. You have to play it by ear on recovery days.

With that said, I like your first option of having a recovery day after your long run and tempo run days. I'm not sure how Sasha's tempo to failure work. But I usually do my tempo runs with couple of warm up miles then run 3 to 6 miles at a steady 10K race pace. Tempo runs provide a strong stimulus to improve your lactate threshold pace which will improve your marathon race pace.

I think long run is the bread and butter of all marathon training. It improves your endurance and should be done at the right intensity to train your body to adapt to the 26.2. Run them too hard, you'll defeat its purpose. You can run them at 10-20% slower than your goal marathon race pace and once a month run the long run with a strong finish, say insert some marathon pace miles at the end to train the body to push through when fatigue.

Hope this helps.

I learn so much from you guys!!! And I love that website, it has helped me to figure out what paces I should be doing!

You are doing awesome, Marion.

I am so sorry for your SIL, that is so dang hard.

Thanks so much Susanna! Your help so greatly appreciated :) I am going over to my spreadsheet to work out my new plans :) I just read an article on Lactic threshold training. I am easily between 35-40 miles a week. I had a few recovery weeks but will be back up to 35 this week. I love this running stuff!

Thanks Kelli- I need to do your push up challenge. I guess I missed it! Where is it?

http://www.hundredpushups.com/

Alright- I can only do 4 GIRL push-ups! NO LAUGHING!!! Just send me condolence chocolate! I suck!

You gotta start somewhere!!! You have nowhere to go but up, right?

true... sad, but true!

Your pace was perfect for your plan! I am thinking the same thing you are about the rest of the body,but these situp and push up challanges are overwhelming! I am going to try and do muscle up and yoga for a while, good luck dear, YOU are my inspiration!!

The sit ups are not too bad and the push-ups aren't either. I am just LAME with both and need to start somewhere if I want to be in the 60 by 60 club ;)

Okay, you let me know how it goes, and maybe some day I will jump on the wagon. I can't even think of adding one more thing. You go girl!!!

Why is hummus so good???

Woohoo!!! you plan your run and run your plan! You were very brave to go out into the snowy and windy. I wear sunglasses even when there's no sun. (mine comes with 3 pairs of lenses) You need "windshield" for those beautiful eyes of yours. Ya never know what's flying out there...innocent snow flakes in the winter, bugs in the summer. GOOD JOB today! AWESOME job working on the whole body with core workout. I don't know why hummus is so good...it ryhmns with humorous? ;)

I tried wearing sun glasses in the snow and they just got all wet and I couldn't see. I need windshield wipers for them ;)

Now another quick question, that "easy" run felt tough. Not too tough, but I was glad to be done when I got home. Should easy runs feel a bit tough? I could talk, but not as easily as with a slower pace. I did have a serge of energy at about 3.5 miles that lasted until about 4.5 m. The rest of the run felt like I was running up hill in the windy snow with a headwind. Oh wait- I was!!! ;D

Marion, the first mile or so of every run feels hard, because the body doesn't want to "work". Once it's warmed up, your body will get into a rhythm, like a surge of energy. For "easy" runs, I would maintain that rhythm, conversational pace, never get out of breath kinda pace. I think if you didn't have a headwind or hill, your pace would have been in the easy pace zone.

You say if felt a bit tough. That's okay because it was tough to run uphill with headwind. 5 miles was the right distance for the pace you did this morning. Any longer at that pace, or faster at a shorter distance would not have been an "easy" day.

Remember easy day is base running, maintenance stuff. You'll know if you did it in the right intensity when you have something left in the tank. Are you running tempo run tomorrow?

I think it might be thursday. I have to redo my plans because of Kylee's dads funeral on Saturday. I can't do my long run on friday or Saturday, thursday is bad too. I need to look at the weather and find out which of those mornings is going to be the warmest so I can get out early to get it all in. I am glad that I realized that this week was going to be so complicated so i can rearrange my plans to fit the chaos! I sure wish David liked to run. It would be ever so helpful to combine running at dates ;)

If I have to choose between tempo run and long run. I would do the long run. You can insert a little of tempo in your long run. For example, if you're doing a 10 mile long run, do some at tempo pace for about 10 - 15 min. For marathon training, the long run serves you better than any speed training.

Hopefully you can find a day this week to fit a long run in.

I understand about the non-running hubby thing. His favorite date is dinner and movie. I like the dinner especially after a long run; but the movie just kills...sitting = stiff/soreness.

We are dinner and movie daters too. I love it. I think I will do the long run tomorrow with the 10 mm to failure thing that Sasha recommended. I will be trying for 6 miles at 10 mm. I did 5 last week. (1 mile warm up- maybe 2 depending on the temp) The rest of the run is at what ever pace I can squeak out. I have a 12 miler planned for this week, but I may have to go for 10 and then add the extra 2 on to my 5's on friday and saturday. Thursday is going to be a major poky 5 mile recovery run ;)

Explain to me what the 10 mm to failure thing is, please.

It is where I warm up and then run at a 10 min mile pace until I can no longer hold that pace for three consecutive quarters. Sasha (and Michelle) think that I can run a 1/2 marathon at a 10 mm pace. I don't believe them, so I think this is their way to prove to me that I can do it. There is probably some other scientific reason for this type of run, but Sasha wants me to do it once a week for my speed work and he wants me to do it on my long run. He wants all my others runs to be easy and relaxed. I did this two Saturdays ago without too many aches or pains the following day. Sasha says to "failure," Michelle says to set a goal each week, and anything further than that is gravy. I did the 5 miles a few weeks ago without too much trouble. I feel like I could have squeezed out another mile, so this week the goal is 6 miles at 10mm pace. I need to eat a good dinner if I am going to do this tomorrow :)

Very cool! It looks like a serious tempo run to me. I agree with Sasha that you can run 1/2 marathon at a 10 mm pace. His method to get you there is a little unconventional; but it's worth a try. How did your body feel when you were running 10 mm pace for five miles straight? I assume you ran it with no recovery pace in between the 5 miles.

It was a solid stretch and it actually felt fine ;) It felt HORRIBLE to slow down ;)

Marion, that's a good sign. Tempo run is supposed to be slightly uncomfortable; but not all out breathless. If you were able to sustain 5 miles at 10 mm pace, you were running GOOD. I'm excited to hear how your 6 miles at tempo pace go tomorrow. I usually don't do tempo runs more than 6 miles. Are you carrying fuel/fluids with you?

Great job today! Our snow was fluffy and friendly, though! Maybe you should move???

Have a good night beautiful woman!

Smooth- I was not planning on carrying fuel, but maybe I should. I'll go see what I have got in my stash of gu and blocks. i'd better pack up tonight :) I am going at 6 am.

Kelli- I will be right over to move in with you!

way to go marion maybe soon i can hit the trails with you!

Corrine- Running with you would be SO much fun!!! Call me!

Good miles Marion!

Any success over the wimpout factor is still a victory.

Hey Jon- I don't know if you ever went over to my melting marion blog, but you made it in my 1/2 marathon entry. It's an awesome picture of us all finishing up. You really were an amazing help to me! Thanks again! How is the lovely Kelly lady? I really like her :)

Thanks Maurine! I am pretty proud of myself for doing all five. I usually wimp out in mile 3 :)

That's exactly how you run a marathon... one mile at a time :) I think you did great! Better then no miles at all.

Hey you little fancy pants! I think your trick worked great! Great pace, you beat us all to heck this morning!!

Thanks Lori- Hey- I am 5 miles down for my marathon- only 21 to go! ;)

Les- I am a total dork! But hey, it's done and now I get to take the boys to McDonald's! I am going to make more Hummus! I need to go pick up some flat bread!

I just paid a visit to your Melting Marion website and it is so much fun!! Music and pictures, it is AWESOME! If people ask me where they can get my cool hot pink leg warmers send them my way, I am sure everyone wants a pair! Sexy!!!

Les- speaking of fancy pants- you should see my hot outfit! Let's just say I hope the UPS guy does not come around. He'd throw up for sure!!!

Is it hard to make humus? I love that stuff. Have a parfait for me!

You are alittle hottie, even in a dorky outfit! Are you wearing your outfit to MacDonalds, or are you dressing up for the occasion? I am off to Zupas and then I am going to watch Paul do therapy up at the U of U, we can watch him through a tinted glass window, Julie said it is really cool the stuff they do with him.

Hummus us easy peasy. You just need a food processor. It takes a few minutes.

Have fun at zupas. Michelle and went there a few weeks ago. It was dang tasty!

No- the outfit would be illegal at McDonalds. Shorts and a spots bra on a white gigglie nearly 40 is not very cute or hot ;)

Marion, I go to your melting site every now and then, but somehow missed that entry. I like your commentary on the race. I REALLY hope you had a good experience. You have worked SO hard to get to this point in your life and you should be so very proud of yourself. I hope that you had some serious goose bumps when you came across the finish line!

Jon- I was actually fine until David found me and then a bawled. I cried off and on for about 2 days. By monday night i could talk about it without tears. I felt like a dork, but I guess finishing was a bigger deal to me than I realized :) Thanks again. You were a life saver at the end. :)

Your not a dork Marion, I have a race that to this day brings the emotions out of me. (its been almost a year now). But I think those are some of the reasons we race. I know I am not going to win the race, but I have my winnings come in other ways than being the first to cross that line.

I think, for many of us, we are just trying to live our lives and get through each day, with family, work, church, etc. Running is something totally aside from all of that regular life. It is one thing that we can work REALLY HARD and actually see results and accomplishment, even weekly. It is SO physically & mentally demanding. It's SO rewarding! I am so glad I started running. :D

All I have to say is that you are so cute!! Whatever works baby!

Marion, I was thinking about you when I was running into the wind with snow jabbing into my squinty little eyes. How silly of me to forget to wear my "windshield" AFTER telling you to yesterday!!! I wonder how in the world could Marion run in this weather. Oh man, I hope she didn't go out for her long run and that torture 10 mm to failure tempo!

WHAT??? You mean I was worrying about you for NOTHING? You got "treats" after each mile? You re-invented treadmill running, I tell ya. I'm gonna try that next time, get a treat and increase each time by 30 seconds. You think I can run a sub-7 that way? You're a riot, not dorkous. :)

Smooth- Funny dork- that is me! I am always so impressed by your work outs on the treadmill. I feel like it is a workout to stay on it. Those little cute snow flakes are nasty little buggers aren't they? They are like little Chinese fighting stars. Ouch! I am sorry your forgot your wind shield :( Good luck with the sub-7 ;)

Push ups are HARD!!!!! Great job today!

Be careful that treadmill is a killer! Good job on getting on the dam_ thing! I didn't just swear unless you fill in the blank :) Tell your hubby hello!

Thanks for the tip. I have been writing all of the letters. That will help a ton ;) I have been trying to quit swearing for a while now... like since 6th grade :)

Hey Marion! :) Good on being cautious. That's what I have to be too I guess. I just really hope to get back out there running. I've learned me and treadmills = not friends any more. Haha!

Benn- Every time i get too caught up in a training schedule, I get hurt. It's hard to let go of the ocd and run smart. I am learning, I hope ;)

Good for you for being cautious! It is so important for runners to listen to their whining bodies, and you will be better and FASTER for it!

Have a great day!

Smart girl Marion.

Baby it like crazy!!

Kelli & Teena- I think I did not do too much damage to it- here's to hoping it's just the evil treadmill! Hey- how cool would that be if I had a real reason to never run on the DREADmill again???

No ... you don't want a real reason ... just a made-up one that you can throw around at your convenience. Keep the real reasons far at bay!! PLEASE!!

Yes, I think flexibilty is the key for us all, listen to our bodies and be smart!! Good girl! You kicked my bootie this morning!

I was thinking, if the roads kill my calves and the treadmill my hams, maybe I SHOULD run 2 miles a day on the treadmill to help strengthen my hams and the rest of my miles on the road. That would seem to be a logical way to balance my running and give me more strength??? Hmmmmm.... Any thoughts?

Or add in some strength training for your calves and hour hamstrings?!?

I think running is just about pain, plain and simple! It should not be, but it seems to be so.

I do need to do something else too. I am looking forward to the bike again when it defrosts around here :) Oh- I had better get my sit ups done!

do some for me please

What's my excuse then Marion, as I've never had an official running schedule :(

Looks like TM is not very nice to your hammie. Baby it like you say. Do your xtraining and yoga and strength stuff OR just REST!!!

Toe runner? I bet you look like a ballerina when you run. If only the rest of us could be so graceful. I think the technical term for my running is the slappy foot lurch.

Mike- I think he mentioned the slappy foot lurch runners and said I should be leery of them ;) Are you enjoying your perfect weather?

Have FUN time with the family!!

Luckily - the lines aren't as long anymore. I was glad we could use my dad's handicapped pass and skip the bus lines.

My parking lot last night was an ice sheet - made me scared to get out of bed this morning (sounds like a good excuse).

Smart woman, no running in the ice!

My parents never took me out of school for anything. They even scheduled my dental appointments during summer break. Your kids must think your awesome!

Hope you had a GREAT time!!

Hi everyone!! I got my run in :) No ham issues! Yeah!!! Whoo Hoo!!!

Mike- I am sorry your parents were so mean ;) jk- parents are supposed to be mean. My kids think we are the WORST- we must be doing something right :) I wrote more details up top.

Good job on the running and nursing that ham. Make sure you ice and stretch it.

Looks like you have had a wonderful day, and a nice run! Good plan on strengthing your ham.

Looks like a PERFECT Vday Eve. Smart to take your kids out of school on the day they would have been on sugar high. They got "spiritually fed" and "old navy clothed". GOOD mama and GOOD JOB on the run.

xoxoxoxoxoxo :D

Tell David with a double D to start running and we can give him some really earned nicknames

As Benn with the double N's (yes, N's!) I concur with tarzan. He gets his butt in gear and he can earn a nickname too! :)

Happy Valentine's Day!

It is not all it cracked up to be to have a husband obsessed with running, really!!! Juts do not let him become obsessed. It would be fun to have him run with us, but then who would take the great pictures??? I love the nickname he has given himself!!

Take care of yourself and have fun tonight with the movie!!

Oh, and Scott and I went to Bajios for dinner last night, too! Funny.

Sorry about the hamstring. I have decided to not run, do situps or pullups for a week. Just walk, ellipticals or biking to give my damaged muscles a chance to heal. Come join me.

David with the Double D's! You are cracking me up! Okay,we went to Cheesecake Factory for lunch and to " He's Just Not That Into YOu" It was a great chick flick!! If David starts running who will Larry and Harold hang out with?? Don't encourage too much! Now we are off to rent Madagascar 2. I tried to get it last night with the grandkids, and it was out at the Red Box.

No exersize today! Not a single bit. Kinda nice actually to be a normal person for once.

BTW- double d says HI! ;)

We bought Madagascar II and Madagascar II twinkies and ding dongs for the boys. I am going to do laundry during our date tonight :)

Kelli- I can't believe you were at Bajio last night! Twilight Zone! I don't think David will become obsessed with running...IF HE EVER STARTS! He does not have too much of an obsessed nature. He leaves the OCD to me :)

Maurine- I am sorry you are busted up :( What happened???

LEs- No fear of Harold and Larry being left all alone. I'll believe in Runner Double D when I see it!

Benn- Benn with the double nn- Happy V-day to you too! Have fun wiht Emma :)

Don't forget your nickname, Amazon Goddess :) Oh yeah. We're doing a video with our kids too. I have found it's just not worth it to go out on VD.

February is also Black History month.

Burt- you are so right. Since the island of Madagascar is off of the coast of Africa, viewing this movie is pulling double duty. Thanks for the reminder ;)

Michelle- we don't go out either. It is too crowded and NO fun. What are you guys gonna watch?

-AG out!

The Man Who Planted Trees - a cartoon hailed as one of the 50 greatest cartoons of all time (according to NetFlix sleeve). It's only an hour.

Smart girl- 1 hour! I haven't heard of that one. Let me know if it is good ;) I am trying to get our party started so they boys can go to bed! I really want to relax and watch some grown up movie :)

David with the double D!!! LOVE IT!!! Definitely Darhling!!! Don't get him TOO committed. We need good athletic supporters: Mr. Smooth, Harold and DD to hold up the CC (Cheering Club).

GOOD JOB on your run today. FUN FUN Vday!

Smooth- I don't think there is any fear in Double D getting too committed. I just want him to start exercising and don't care what he does ;) It'd sure be nice if I had a running partner every once in a while ;)

Happy belated Valentines Day to you as well. The Double D thing cracked me up!!! I wore a rediculous outfit to my race yesterday- bright pink shorts, a bright blue shirt, and red flats, and I thought you would be proud that a woman yelled to me "hey pink shorts, i saw you, nice race!"

I hope you have signed up for the Ogden Half, it is full. That was quick!

Hope you enjoyed Madagascar 2. "Here's how you spell it ... M-O-T-O M-O-T-O." (some of the lyrics we sing around here from "I Like to Move It" from that wonderful flick).

((Smart girl to stay in on V-day ... Ry and I went to our favorite Steak House, only to be told there was a 2 hour wait ... so we went to another Steak House, same deal, 2 hours ... so we went to another one, once again, 2 hours ... after driving around for 2 hours we finally settle for Wingers!!

Hope you had a great time!

Kelsey! Way to go, red hot pink chick with the slpash of blue :) I think the craziness keeps people from knowing how awesome we are and that we are gonna beat them!! By "we" I mean you are going to beat them :)

Les- I signed up a few months ago. :)

Teena- I LOVED moto-moto. II was very good and a ton of fun. "I like to move it" is my theme song. :) Sorry about dinner :( That is why we never go out ;)

Way to get out and "fix the indiscretions". Keep working hard Marion!

hey not too bad! I wish I could exercise for an hour, or at least be able to jog for that long, way to go.

Sorry to hear about the food problems. But you still have plenty of time before Ogden 1/2. Just remember to look at the glass half full and not half empty. Just my thought for the day!

Yeah - well I just finished up all the chocolate covered marshmallows AND all the chocolate covered cinnamon bears - so now I can go back to being good.

You are doing fine - don't beat yourself up over it. (But if you want to beat up DD - you can).

So glad to see that I'm not the only one that makes bad food choices sometimes. The weekends are always a bit harder for me then on top of it being Valentines :( not a good combo. But I guess we are all back on track together. :)

Nice run!

I have been doing pretty good today :)

Barry- You are right, I have got plenty of time so long as I don't go nuts too many more times :)

Lori- I am with you sister- we can be strong, we can conquer!

MAurine- All of the crap around here is gone and now I am re focused. We even went to the movies and I didn't have any popcorn! I am a ROCK!!

Rinny- You'll get there! Slow and steady wins the race. How was your sunday? I missed you yesterday!

Jon- How was Valentines day with lover girl? ;)

Did you say Rock? Now I want to get some Rocky Road Ice Cream.

focus Maurine! FOCUS!! Look into my eyes OO .... You can stay away from the ice cream... You can stay away from the ice cream! ;)

Did you say popcorn?

Mmmmm - popcorn sounds good! While watching The Rock!

We're losing Maurine... we're losing Maurine... Everyone, Maurine is going into a food induced spiral of destruction.. we must save her!

HOLD ON MAURINE.. it will be OK!!! Find a diet Pepsi and drink it slowly until help arrives!!!

OK - phew! I think that snapped me out of it. I have only had one or two sips of a cola in my lifetime and that was more than enough for me.

Valentines week wreaked havoc on my eating habits as well. Oh well. A week of redemption and you can forget it ever happened!

Maurine- I am SO glad you are OK ;) Now I can sleep tonight ;)

April- Hey you! I am glad to see I was not alone. Val day usually does not get me, but man I got it good! ;)

You funny girls! Misery loves company! Okay, we are back on wagon! Here is to a great week of no CRAP OLA! Nice 5 miles girl!

Great run, and thanks for not listing a bunch of nummy food on a MONDAY!!!!

Mmmm my favorite is the candy hearts.... fat free but not calorie or carb free. Darn it!!!

I've come down from my sugar rush and ready to behave. (maybe)

GOOD JOB getting her done. Now be a good girl with good eats the rest of the week.

You did it! You survived! Way to get the miles in-the first day back to the routine is always the hardest, right? Don't beat yourself up over the food..to quote some animated movie that I'll think of later..."You've got to put the past, behind you." (I'm picturing either a mouse or a cat saying that for some reason)

Keep up the good work!

That's in Lion King. Rafiki hits Simba with his stick. When asked why he did he it says it doesn't matter, it is in the past. When he tries to hit Simba again, Simba ducks. So the lesson is really, that you shouldn't ignore the past and put it behind you, instead you should remember and learn from it.

I can relate to your wind story. One direction and you feel like Pegasus, the other direction and you might as well be on a treadmill -- run run run and get nowhere. Bravo for toughing out the elements!

Picturing Marion as Marion Poppins with an umbrella.

I like the feel of a tailwind--too bad you have to fight a headwind to earn the fun of the tailwind! Good job on getting out there and getting it done! How's redemption week going? I did good yesterday except for some caramel boyscout popcorn. Shoot!--but I didn't gorge myself!

Sno- the feeling was VERY cool with the tail wind. I sure liked it. IT would have been perfect if there haddn't been ice ;)

Maurine- Mary Poppins is my FAVOIRTE disney movie :)

April- I lost 3 pounds since yesterday morning, so I guess, I'll be ok ;) I ate really well yesterday. Today is off to a great start ;)

Hi Marion, Thanks again for coming to the funeral. I haven't been on here for a few weeks. I want to start running again but I need to find the motivation somewhere.

Way to get out there even in bad conditions! You are an inspiration in so many ways :)

Lori- todays run was actually comical ;) I'm glad to be of service ;)

Kylee- How are you today? The thing about running is if you can make yourself do it everyday, the day will go better for sure. I don't know how you are going to do that. I am so sad for you and wish I could fix it. Would cinnamon rolls help? We should call them SINnamon rolls ;) HOw about raspberry or orange??

I ditto Metcalf! You are the best!!

Pokey-bum kicker???

Yes Burt- it's a new literary term. You'll find it in the next edition of Websters ;) It is defined as Poky- my speed, bum kicker- my great ability to kick peoples bums #1 because of my superior aim and skill and #2 because of my long legs. I've got great range! I hope this clears things up ;)

Quite clear now.

Next time take a Red Bull, it will give you wings and you can FLY with that tail wind. I can run through pretty much anything, but I hate wind (especially when accompanied by sleet!)

Have a great day Bum Kicker!!!! How did you get it to do that, buy the way?

Bum Kicker, I had the crappy snow too this morning, but you are right, you just have to make the decsion to run every day, so there is no question in the wee hours of dawn, just get up and go.

I am on a mission to find food, see ya.

Kelli- You can type whatever name you want in the name, just type your correct blog web address adn it will take whomever chicks to to that address ;)

Les- I hope you found some good food. I am craving some ;)

BK, you're a much stronger bkicker than me to brave the wind, snow, sleet and school traffic. I am SO SO SO tired of deciding where to run every morning. I need you to come kick me.

GOOD JOB on loosing 3 pounds. Keep up the good work.

oh my, 3 pounds in one day, you were a very good girl yesterday! I just had to go get a fish taco at Lonestar, and tonight I am going to Pei Wei with friends. I will order something healthy.

super good job marion!

Marion, I hope you get feeling better soon, and same with you sweet boys. I think we all have a bit of paranoid hypochondriac in us... I like to think that I'm just intune with the way my body feels LOL.

Take care... drink plenty of fluids... and rest!

Totally hear you on the crazies! I'm the exact same way. Sorry to hear everyone is getting sick. Hopefully no more stomach issues at least! Have a nice, relaxing day(ok, so that may be far fetched) and get better soon!

I love Emergen-C. I hope it helps you. I'm sorry your son threw up all over the preschool and the other one was up coughing. That is no fun. I've had sick kids the last couple of weeks, too, but nothing that bad.

Take it easy.

We're not too bad ;) Me especially, I just don't want another sinus infection :P

Hey- have any of you tried the Flat Out flat bread? They are a very large wrap and only 1 point in Weight Watchers talk.I am having a hummus wrap for breakfast and the wrap is pretty good. My members use them to make wraps and personal pizzas. Any way, fyi ;)

Great job getting out there despite it all! Motherhood keeps you sane and INSANE 24/7. Enjoy your time home with the kids even though they are sick, its the only time mine will still cuddle with me.

Don't get sick, you are not allowed! Where did you buy the Flat Out bread? I have heard of it and searched, but it is not at my regular stores. TAke it easy girl today. I need to make your hummus, it sounds really good right now.

i don't think I am going to get much worse, unless I get a sinus infection, which I think I know how to avoid now, I think.

I got the flat outs at Walmart. The members who told me about them said that they were with the regular bread. I found them at my WalMart by the bakery breads. They are really quite huge. I am going to fiddle with them for the next week and see how I like them best.

I am off for more tea! YUMMY!

Emergen-C RULES! Cuddlie kids rule!

Sorry to hear you have sickness in your home. Take care of yourself.

I like the Flat Outs. I use them for sandwiches when I have them.

Sorry your kidlets are sick. I'm sure with your cuddling and nurturing; they will be better in no time. I'll have to look for some Flat Outs.

I also understand the paranoia but after Monday my paranoia only quadruples. Life needs some balance. So I balance it with craziness. I am glad I have company. Hope you feel better soon!!

What happened monday? I am going over to your blog!

You silly girl!!

I hope you start feeling much much much better!! Everytime you have one of those negative thoughts ... have 10 positive ones that explain why the negative one was not realistic at all! What you say when you talk to yourself is SO STINKIN' important!! That's why I'm always telling myself that I am so stinkin' cool!! Just kidding ... or am I??

Lots of Love.

I have stinkin' thoughts right now. Oh wait - I just finished running and am pretty smelly. Maybe that is it.

I've done that to cars too. I just wish I could smack the drivers!

I'm glad that you are OK, drivers never seem to look for runners/bikers. It's crazy! Nice run! Have fun at work LOL!

Good for you! Hopefully the jerk will look next time. Nice run, it feels good to think you still have enough steam left to keep going! Have a great weekend Marion!! I will run a mile for you on the beach!!

I think it's your civic duty to do that.

yeah, Burt is right, and the driver is a Butthead!

Stupid butthead should be arrested! Way to show him!

Have a great day!

Glad to hear you didn't get hurt! Cars suck, that's why I don't have one :) Well, that and because it was stolen last year, ha ha!

Keep on runnin' girl!

Happens to me a few times too...usually I smashed into the front passenger door and the driver was like "OMG!" surprise look. The ones that didn't even see me have their ears stuck to their cell phones. Those are the ones that irritate me. I'm glad you didn't get hurt. Have a fun long run this weekend, the weather is as BEAUTIFUL as you!!!

I totally have some bricks at the apartments if you want me to track down the driver.....just a thought. So, does this mean that no one else got sick and you're feeling better??? I hope so.

I need some wood to knock on, but it looks like we are in the clear :) I sure hope we can make it through the next 3 days with no more barf, and we will be good ;)

Negative splits!

CONGRATS to your daughter's scholarship. AWESOME girl!

A good run will cure the brain pain. Yes get some fresh air and natural Vit.D this afternoon. Have a great weekend. Where are you running your long tomorrow?

Provo river trail at 8:30. Do you need some more long slow miles???? You know you want to come :) I am off for some vit d

48 degrees and the most glorious run EVER!!! I am in love with today!!! It is really funny how the canyons effect the winds. We have these valleys and hills that funnel the wind in different ways. I wore SHORTS and a long sleeve. I was warm until the head wind got to me. We are off to the temple :) Have a fun weekend!

58:36, 11:43 ave, best 7:41, Laps- 12:53, 12:19, 11:07, 11:26 (stiff head wind), 10:50 (head wind)

Glad you enjoyed your run. Tell your daughter congratulations on the scholarship.

Nice run!! Congrats to your daughter! It looks like spring might be on it's way soon :)

ahhhh sunshine. glad you were able to get out and enjoy it. BEAUTIFUL day!!!

Ashley was SO surprised and excited :) It was so fun to walk into her class with our family to congratulate her :) (I mean embarrass her)

The run was SO amazing that i am afraid to run again, in case it never happens again :) Wish me luck- we are doing a 10 mm to failure on the Provo river trail! Good times!

Excellent run and YAY for the scholarship!!!

So... if you were hoping for 2 and then get in 5 awesome miles that means that not only are you an overachiever, but you exceeded your goals by 250%. MAN if only my bank's interest could be that high :).

Great run! And congrats on the scholarship! :)

Actually I felt like Julie Andrews in the opening scene of The Sound of Music. The only problem is that from the moment I stepped back in my house I have not been able to stop sneezing. If I am allergic to Spring, I am going to DIE!!!

sorry about the head. great run, and tell ashley congrats from us!!

Hey you, Rinny girl! Did you know that other Mandy is not our mandy? I keep going to her site thinking she is our Mandy :) I am a doof!

That was the most fun I've had in a long time....the whole reason I keep running. I posted the spits--not sure if they all match--but they are pretty close. I can't wait to run Payson and Porter--I'm in! Keep stretching...and don't forget the core work (situps) they'll keep your lower back and hips strong. Thanks for coming over to play at my house.

Luz- I have been doing the around the world core workout two times a week and the push up challenge 3. I hope it helps :)

GREAT run Marion! You are always making new friends. You are the popular kid in the high school (or, wait, are we in Jr High?)

Jr High my dear! ;) I was too busy with boys in High School to make girl friends ;)

Marion, sounds like a fun run with Luz. Your miles and splits are looking good. Have a great rest of the weekend.

What an awesome run!!!!!!! Provo River Parkway is awesome, you should run the Utah Valley Marathon in June. I really want to do a long run with you soon!!! I am so happy today, so proud of all my buddies on the blog, you, Smooth,Kelli and Tarzan the wonderwoman!!!!

Great run, Marion! Looky - you made another friend. Sorry I didn't make it to Provo in time to run with you (NOT).

Wow Marion. Great miles, great pace, great route, great friend, WHAT MORE COULD YOU ASK FOR?? Then you had to go and throw breakfast into it? Okay, I am hooked!! :) Way to go today, I am proud of you!

I not able to skip stones on a regular lake, so a frozen one would suit my coordination level better.

Nice run today.

Glad you are not sore today. I doubt it is that you are not working hard enough - probably just adjusting well to the training. I thought I would be really sore today, but I'm not either.

Good recovery, Marion!

Scott and I just commented about that same thing, we are never sore! Isn't it nice???

Great job today!

I think it's great you're not sore. Sasha told me once that if you're sore after a long run, then you're not doing enough other running. It means that you're in great shape and have been building up to this mileage. Also, the work you're doing on your core, and the stretching will help you stay strong. Awesome-- can you believe how tough you are? Did you ever think you'd get this strong?

Nice run!! You are getting super fit!

Hey y'all- thanks for stopping by today ;) I am giving myself 30 minutes to play on the blog today, so I have got to check out all of your cool runnings today ;)

Oh- I just added some family pics from yesterday on the lake to today's post :) Have a gander.

Cute pictures!!!!! Okay, you are lucky you have no pain, you are in shape! I have tightness in my groin muscle I am not in shape. I better hit the road!

Marion,

YAY! You are getting fitter and used to running. VERY NICELY done!

I LOVE your family pics. What a handsome and beautiful family. You look like one of the sisters to your girls. I was just telling my friends today that it's been forever since I've had my family picture taken. It's harder as the kids get older and move away, gets married, serves mission, etc. Treasure these dearly. You're an awesome family.

Remind me when I bike across the country to go and see that lake and that absolutely gorgeous view of the mountains.

Gorgeous family too :) Tongues and all lmfao

That is ugly Utah Lake. You should click on the link on todays comments from Rinny and see the pic she took MOnday of the same lake. AMAZING!

It is BEAUTIIFUL out!!! I am going to spend some time in the yard too!

Hey, what are your plans a for a long run Sat.? I have a baptism in Spanish Fork at 11:00 and thought if you were doing anything early I might hook up. Just thinking outloud, and checking things out, it would be fun if it works out.

Nice run this morning!! Spring is around the corner!!!!!

Leslie- That would be GREAT to run on saturday :) I am good for anything between 10-14. 14 would be good with company :) We could go on an adventure :)

I am so excited! You tell me where to meet you, and pick the route and distance and I will be there. I can be there as early as you want. Could we be done by 10:00ish?

Have you noticed the comments are messed up on the blog???

Yeah- they seem to be on a hallucinogen of sorts ;)

I'd love to be done by 10. So 14 miles, averaging 12 mm would take us nearly 3 hours. We'd both like to be done by 10 so does 7 sound OK? I could take you on a bunch of my favorite routes to equal 14 and that way we can potty and fuel at my house and not have to carry a bunch of stuff with us. It's my new favorite way to get long runs in. It's the lazy girl way :) We can even start by having my daughter drive us up the canyon as far as we can go.

Nice run today! I still have a bit too much snow in my yard to be raking the flower beds, but it's great to be seeing mor of them LOL

Lori- I am just amazed at how much crud collects in them :(

That works great for me. I will plan on 7:00am but I am flexible, I will call you Friday, I get the final time and place. A lazy girl long run sounds like a winner to me!

Marion, nice run and good for you doing yard work already. I feel very lazy today. I'm saving the yard work for my hubby. Shhhh, don't tell him you have time to do yard work.

You and Leslie will have so much fun running this Sat. I'm envious.

Hope you are enjoying your fun in the sun! Great job on the running.

The yard work feels SO good! I wish I had more garbage cans! I have filled 2 already and there is enough garbage to fill another 20 probably. We rake all the leaves in the fall, but darn it if there aren't a few trees worth of leaves all over!

My run was the same this morning, just couldn't get in the zone. Your drink actually sounds good, I keep thinking I am going to juice more and the thought of cleaning the machine afterwards stops me in my tracks. I always feel so healthy when I drink one. Good Goal!!! Good luck on the no soda, that is a tough one, but you are one tough cookie, so you will DO IT!!!

I just put it all in the blender, peels and all :) I can't bring myself to juice- too much waste ;)

Hmmm I don't know if I could stomach your smoothie... peels and all? You must have a good blender. Great run though... I need to committ to no soda also. I just have one diet soda about every other day or so... so I shoudl be able to right?

way to go on the run, i felt like lead in my pants today too!

um...forgot what iw as going to say...oh yeah are you participating in Lent?

Corrine- Yes- I am going back to our Catholic roots ;) Funny, we actually have not one catholic in our pedigree. Actually John Henry Morrison was married to a Catholic woman before he married Julia Anna Wagner (well, we aren't sure they got married...at least for a while. DRAMA!!!) They couldn't because there are NO catholic divorces in 1880. Grace didn't die until about 1898ish. anyway- :)

Lori- the blender just makes it all smooth and creamy. It sure is UGLY!!!

really we have no cathloics in our family? weird...interesting...i think i need to lent soda and chocolate ....hmmm cadbury eggs are here..blasted..maybe they would be good in that nasty looking shake :)

ok so not related to running, but you know the scenic route we took to your house? well you have to check out the picture I took from the highway, I should have dragged my family's butts out of the car to throw them in the picture, but seriously check it out http://4kidsnodog.blogspot.com it turned out awesome!

Wow- that was gorgeous! You should have made them get in it! Dang!

YEs- seriously, there are no Catholics in our family tree. I think it is interesting too.

Cadbury made me mad when they shrunk the size of the egg thinking we wouldn't notice.

Okay, I checked out rinnys blog spot! So much fun!!!! Hey, I am going to give up beer for lent! hahaha! I think I am so funny! After checking out the blog I want to go to Hawaii!!!

I am addicted to Wunderbars though and Cadbury makes those, you can only get them in Canada though.

I am not giving up chocolate EVER! I officially think it is a STUPID thing to give up. There is NOTHING wrong with a little bit of chocolate here and there! Soda supposedly can hinder O2 uptake in your muscles. I want to see if I notice a difference. 2 month should show me if there is any noticeable difference. If I am undecided after 2 months I'll go for another 2 months.

I used to be addicted to Diet Coke but went cold turkey on Nov 23, 2006. I've never gone back. You feel so much better after the first weekor two of detox.

You're right. That sounds absolutely revolting!

AZ- Are those like the german Kinderbars? I love them. We have lots of import stores around here, I am going to have to try the Wunderbar :) Are they dark or light?

Benn- Really??? I don't have Diet Pepsi/coke all the time. Please tell me what wonderful things are going to happen :) Oh and about the smoothie- you really have to try it once. Just be sure to add enough fruit. Pineapple and spinach is a great combo :) Is is nasty looking, though. What are you reading these days?