Top 10 Reasons to Get Your Kids Running

Running is a wonderful sport for anyone...men, women, old, and young.  It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it sure does keep you healthy!  As adults, we all know that we should be getting exercise and eating healthy.  But we are also responsible for our children's health.  All too often in our busy lives, children become sedentary, addicted to all things electronic.  Wouldn't it be great if you could channel that addiction into a healthy sport?  Better yet, one that you can join them in?  Running is the perfect sport for busy families! Here are my top 10 reasons why you should get your kids running!

1. It's great exercise for them.  It gets their hearts pumping and their muscles moving.  It burns calories and fat efficiently.  Our society is incredibly obese, and children are increasingly overweight.  Excessive weight, as we have all heard, increases a number of health risks for our children, including diabetes. The risks do not stop in childhood, either.  Children who grow up in a sedentary lifestyle with an unhealthy diet have a very difficult time overcoming the habits and patterns they develop as kids.  So, overweight children become overweight adults.  Obesity in adults greatly increases their risk of cancer, stroke, and cardiovascular disease!  But running (and other forms of exercise) can help your child learn to live a healthy lifestyle that will last a lifetime!

2.  It can be done any time of day, so you can work around your schedule/homework/dinner, etc.  If it's dark out, have them use a headlamp...but make sure they are with an adult, of course! You can buy headlamps in the sporting goods sections of big box stores.  They're pretty cheap...usually around $12-$20. This is one of the headlamps I have and it is perfect for my daughter!  We also use them while hiking, camping, and going on expeditions in our closets, like I wrote about in this post.

3.  They can run all year long, in all kinds of weather...as long as they are prepared.  You should always dress as if it is 10 degrees warmer out than it really is.  So, if it is 60 degrees out, have your child wear something that would be appropriate for a 70 degree day.  I also highly recommend technical clothing.  It doesn't have to be expensive...you can buy it at Wal-Mart for pretty cheap.  I usually get Little Miss's running/athletic clothes there when they are on clearance for around $3.00 each piece (tops or bottoms).  Of course, you can also purchase name-brand technical clothing for kids at sporting goods stores or online.

4.  It is a lifelong sport.  They will be able to continue running throughout their whole lives.  Many sports can be played for quite a long time through young adulthood.  And nowadays, you can find some adult leagues here and there of sports you play.  But with running, you can just step outside and go...no need for teams, membership fees, facility usage fees, etc.  And the best part of it is that it still can be social...if you want it to be!  You can join running clubs or go running with a friend. 

5.  They don't need a lot of expensive equipment to join this sport. Really, all they need is a pair of good running shoes.  I do highly recommend that you take your child to a running store and invest in a good pair of shoes that fits them properly.  But you don't have to!  That's the beauty of it!  You can have your child run in whatever shoes you bought them for gym class.  My daughter sometimes runs around in her Converse kick-around shoes.  Is it the best shoe for her to run around in?  Probably not.  But, if the alternative is arguing with her endlessly to put on her running shoes and/or not running at all, I will take the physical activity with the Converse shoes anytime! 

Other than that, the only necessary cost would be an entrance fee to a race, if that is the ultimate goal.  Entrance fees for 5k races can run anywhere from $5 for a very small, local race, to $30 or so for the larger, more well-known races in your area. 

Naturally, as with any activity or hobby, you can go out and purchase the best gear for your child.  Being the cheap-o that I am, though, I prefer to go to the clearance racks while my kids are still growing!

6.  It teaches them to get to know and listen to their bodies.  They will learn what their bodies feel like and how they react to different terrain and weather conditions.  They will learn to assess what feels right/wrong with their bodies, which can help them prevent injuries in running, as well as in other sports.  They can learn what foods and fluids best fuel their bodies for physical activities.  They will learn when they can push their bodies to perform at a higher level, and when they need to slow it down.

7.  You can join them in this sport...it's great for bonding or one-on-one time with your child, which, in turn promotes a greater overall well-being for your child.  If you are a goal-oriented, type A person, you may wish to get your run in before going out with your child, though.  Some children do not like to just go out and run.  They may prefer to run a bit, walk a bit, stop and do cartwheels, skip for a few steps, twirl around and then bend down to pick up rocks to throw (not that I have ANY experience with this, mind you 😜).  So if you need to accomplish a set pace or distance, it may be better for you to go out and get most or all of it done, then come back and get your child to go along with you.  It definitely relieves the stress of the stop-and-go-and-twirl method!

8.  It teaches them discipline.  If they want to accomplish their goals, they have to work hard at it.  They can't just show up on race day and expect to finish or finish well.  They have to get out there several times a week (I recommend 4-5 times).  It doesn't have to be every single day, but it should be pretty regularly in order to get them in shape and ready to run their 5k!

9.  It teaches life lessons:  They probably won't win.  Most races have hundreds of people running them (primarily adults), so unless your child is the Bionic Child, they don't have much chance of winning.  But, they do have to try their hardest...in training, and on race day.  They have to learn to be competitive with themselves, not just other people.  I think this is an important skill to learn.  One of the things kids are famous for is trying to be first.  First in line, first to the car, first with assignments in class, etc.  They want to beat everybody.  But that's just not the way life is.  Nobody is first all the time...like, in the history of EVER.  So, for them to have to focus on competing primarily with their selves, they learn this valuable lesson.  They learn that they can't always be first, won't always compete against friends and classmates (sometimes it's strangers), and need to strive to be better than the last time they ran.

10. It gives children a huge sense of accomplishment to train for and complete a race:  It's great for their self-esteem!  They will set a goal for themselves and see it through to completion.  They will run 3 miles!!! Most adults cannot even run 3 miles!!!  So for a child to achieve that is quite a feat!  And if you pick the right race, there will be spectators cheering them on, excitement everywhere.  Plus they will enjoy the comradery they will see on the course.  Runners are famous for it.  We adults all want to see each other succeed, but we have even a little more energy and enthusiasm when we see children out there doing it!  .   

You can start kids at a pretty young age with running.  Many local races have 100 meter dashes for little ones, and even 7 and 8 year olds can train for and run a 5k!  In this day and age, there are many, many race options to choose from...pick a fun one!  Then sign them (and you!) up, and get out there pounding the pavement!  Make sure you take it slowly...you should plan on about 2 months of training before the day of the race!  And know that there is no harm in walking during the race!  Whatever gets your child from start to finish is the ultimate goal...even if it means doing a few twirls, jumping, or pretending to fly like a bird! 

Yours in running,

Marathon Momma

Are you a Marathon Momma?  Do you run marathons in between raising your little people to be decent humans? Or maybe you aren't a traditional runner, but a runner-after-kidser? Do you feel like every day is a marathon?  Yeah, me too!  Come join our community! Sign-up for our Email List!

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My Own Pity Party

I promise I won't do this very often...but today I need to.  I just have some feelings that I feel I need to share.  And, let's be honest...about this whole blogging thing...it really is for me , isn't it?  LOL  I mean, of course there are all the things I hope to accomplish through blogging, like helping other people in similar situations, at the very least, feel like they are not alone.  And maybe, just maybe, becoming an inspiration to someone who is just beginning the process (you know, later on down the road).  Ultimately, though, blogging about my life really is a chance for me  to express myself, right?  I have just one caveat before I go ahead and jump on in with both feet...you should know that I am Very  Grateful  that my symptoms are not nearly as bad as they could be.  I know that there are many more people in the world who are less  fortunate than me.  I can only hope that my disease doesn't progress to the levels that I have seen it could eventually be.  But in the meantime, I am thankful that, despite all of my issues, it is not worse.

So, here's your very last chance to bail on reading this post if you aren't up for listening to a lot of whining and complaining...it's just something I  really need to do right now...have a little pity party for myself so that I can get the whining out of my system and focus more on what I need to do to stay as healthy as I can for my family.  So, if you keep on reading, don't say I didn't warn  you!

How about I start this off as a top 10 list of my most annoying symptoms?  That's sounds good to me ...

1.  I am soooooo tired. All.The.Time!  Like sleepy tired...you know that feeling when your eyes start to sting because you're super  tired?  That's how I feel.  Always.  Even if I get a good night's sleep, or nap, or rest.  I am tired...and not like mom  tired.  Just through and through tired.

2.  I'm exhausted.  I know that sounds an awful lot like number one, but I am referring to a different kind of tiredness now...the one that exists deep in my muscles.  It sorta feels like I have spent hours at the gym lifting very heavy weights...and a lot of times there is a soreness there, too, as if I really did  lift weights!  Thank goodness the boys can walk a lot now, because the exhaustion in my muscles makes it very difficult to carry them much at all anymore.  But this exhaustion effects absolutely everything  I do throughout my entire  day.  So if anyone I know sees me and thinks I look miserable, it's probably just that I'm tired and exhausted...please don't take it personally! ;)

3.  I ache.  Like bone ache.  My hands, my right pinky finger, my wrists, my arms, my right elbow, my legs, my knees, my hips, my neck, my back, and I am sure some other part of me that I am forgetting.  I feel like I am 80 years old!  Can somebody hand me my walker, please??  Now, I do feel a little better once my body gets up and moving, like after a little exercise or something...but then I am tired and exhausted again.  I am really going to have to learn to find balance in my life to help with this.

4.  My stomach is a mess.  I often feel like I am going to spew chunks (sorry to any of my visual friends, followers).  And if it's not coming out one end, it's the other!  Again, I apologize.  But it's real .  Too, I am frequently gassy, bloated, and/or constipated, just to tie it all up in a neat little package...with a giant purple bow (because that's my favorite)!  But, pretty much, my stomach rarely feels "right" anymore.

5.  My hands and feet are frozen icicles hanging off logs.  And it is sooooooo hard to warm them up if they get cold!  I have to be very proactive with this one!  Because once they're cold, forget  it !  I might as well stick them in an ice bath and tell them that misery loves company!

6.  I am having a hard time swallowing.  This is one of the weird symptoms I was vaguely aware that I was experiencing, but I didn't realize it was actually a symptom of anything , until the doc told me about it.  And now that I am paying more attention to it, it is a bit annoying.

7.  Another one:  I have difficulty taking deep breaths.  It hurts my lungs.  I was aware of this symptom before seeing the scleroderma specialist, but as with the swallowing, I had no  idea  that it was connected.  I just assumed  it was because I was out of shape.  But now, I am worried about it.  I am anxious to go for my pulmonary function test next week to see if I have any scar tissue on my lungs.  *Wish me luck*!

8.  Acid reflux...something I have only had a few times in my life...except when I was preggo with those beautiful boys of mine!  While I was pregnant with the twins, I had the  worst  heartburn of my life!  And when it continued post-delivery, I was sure  it had something to do with the pregnancy hormones still hanging around in my body?!?!  I guess not!  Fortunately, I don't have it very  often...but I have had it in the middle of the night, to the point of vomiting, and that stinks !

9.  Swollen glands and low-grade fevers are pretty much a weekly occurrence.  What a pain in the neck!  Literally!  LOL

10.  My skin is itchy.  With scleroderma, you usually get patches of thicker, itchy skin on different parts of your body.  And so far, I am very fortunate, in that I have very few of these patches.  However, my skin is frequently itchy all over...and that makes me start thinking of chicken pox...and head lice...and scabies...and other creepy, itchy things, and it makes me even more  itchy! 

Okay, that's a pretty big laundry list of my physical complaints.  Just a few more complaints...but these are more of an emotional nature.  I think I'd like to do another list...but let's stick to, let's say, maybe my top five  complaints for this one.  That way I don't bore you to death with my whining.

1.  I am frustrated that I have to now deal with my own health issues.  I have all I can handle, trying to deal with Miracle Man's health/learning concerns and raising my other 2 children, plus taking care of the dog, the cats, the house, my husband, etc.  I don't have the time  to be dealing with my own health issues.  And I don't feel  like running to doctor's appointments for myself, on top of all of the appointments for Miracle Man and my other two lovelies.  I don't wanna do it and you can't make me!  (Ooops, sorry...flashback from childhood!)

2.  I don't want this to be my body now.  I want to run.  Marathons.  Many, many  Marathons.  I wanted to be able to run one in every state by the time I eventually retired from running.  I even wanted to run a few internationally.  And I don't want to feel like I am 80 years old when I have so much life left and so much to experience as a mom.  I don't want to feel like a slug at all.  I want to play hardcore with my kiddles.  Was this an invasion  of the body snatchers?

3.  Even though this diagnosis is all so new to me, I already feel so alone in this disease.  I don't know anybody with scleroderma.  And whenever you tell someone that you have something that they cannot visually see, they often don't "get it".  It makes me feel...so.very.isolated...already .  Nobody seems to understand.  Even though people are caring and compassionate, they still don't really get it, because they haven't experienced it.  I feel like some people think I am just whiny and that I should just "suck it up", but it's not  simply a matter of just "sucking it up".  I wish it were that simple.  I wish I could just "make up my mind" to feel better .  That would make EVERYTHING so much easier!

4. I find myself to be...annoying.  That's strange, isn't it?  But it's true .  Sometimes, I just get so cranky and miserable and I am totally annoyed with myself for it, but I have a hard time changing  my mood.  I have found, though, that if  I can be silly with the kids, or listen to some music, it sometimes helps.  Just not always . And I don't want  to be stuck in those kinds of moods.

5.  Sitting/resting makes me feel lazy.  I don't like it.  I never have.  I have always been on-the-go...since...ummmm...forever .  I think that's why I am enjoying blogging so very much lately.  Because it makes me feel like I am actually accomplishing  something (other than keeping the couch warm), in between taking care of the kids.  And it   bugs.the.heck.out.of.me   to think that other  people  might think that I am just being lazy.  I mean, it really drives me BoNkErS!  And it shouldn't  matter what other people think.  But we live in a work, work, work culture, and I know I  have a hard time with it, just for myself.  So, I am sure there are many people who already think this or will think this of me.  And that feels terrible to me.

Well, that's it. For now.  As I said above, I promise I won't do this often.  I am glad I was able to get this off my chest.  And I am going to work hard to stay positive and focus on maintaining my health and taking care of my family as best I can.  Thank you to those of you who actually read this post all the way down to here!

That's all folks,
MM

P.S.  Feel free to leave a comment for me below...just be gentle, please.  I'm feeling a little bit fragile emotionally right now.  Thanks!  ;)

Winter Running Tips

The key to being comfortable on your run in the colder temperatures is being, just like a boyscout (or girlscout), prepared.  If you have the correct gear on, running outside in the winter can be enjoyable (as I have explained in my last blog post, Winter...When I am Free to Just Run).

So what exactly does one need in order to be prepared for running outdoors in bitter temperatures?  Well, it all depends on the actual temperatures, plus the wind chill.  But no matter what the temperature is outside, you simply must use technical clothing that is made of fabric that wicks the sweat away from your body.  You do not want the sweat to sit against your skin at any time when you are running, but especially in the winter.  Cotton is a big no-no for runners.  It holds the sweat against your body, which can cause all sorts of problems for you...chafing is one of them.  In the winter, we worry more about hypothermia.  So, invest in some technical running clothing and you won't be sorry, whether you use it at the gym during the winter or outside.

So, the number one thing you need for winter running, is some kind of technical clothing.  Beyond that basic tip, the actual temp outside will determine what you will need in order to stay comfortable.  One of the best things you can do in the winter is layer your clothing.  The colder it is, obviously the more layers you need.  But layering is important, because when you first start your run, your body is going to feel very cold.  But, as you run and your body heats up, you will not need as much clothing on, so you can shed a layer and either carry it with you (wrapping it around your waist) or leave it and remember to come back and grab it after your run (hopefully). 

Some runners that are used to what their bodies need for each temperature range might go outside with only what they will need once their body is warmed up.  Other runners like to be warmer to begin with and shed a layer as they go.  It is up to you, but if you are a beginning runner, I recommend using the layers approach, since your goal is to convince yourself that you can do it...no matter what the temp is.

Here is a rundown of how I usually dress for running outside in the winter.

If the temps are in the lower 40s to upper 30s, I like to wear just a long-sleeved top, a pair of shorts, and a light pair of pants over the shorts.  Wearing the shorts under the pants is a personal preference.  I do not own any technical underwear, so I would feel uncomfortable wearing the pants without the shorts that have the built-in underwear.  You may wish to wear a light pair of gloves and something to cover your ears if it is in the lower 40s to upper 30s.  I find that my body gets hot pretty quickly and I do not like the feeling of the gloves on my hands at that point, so I just grin and bear it for the first mile or so.  As far as the gloves go, you can really just wear a pair of those $.99 gloves that you can get at Wal-Mart or somewhere like that.  They will do the trick at this temp range.  At this temp range, I do not wear a winter running hat, but you may wish to.  I might wear a technical baseball cap, though.  For my feet, I just use my regular running socks (again, they are made of a technical fabric...no cotton!!).  Cotton on your feet will cause blisters...so don't do it!!!

When the temps are in the mid to lower 30s, I will usually wear my shorts, a heavier pair of pants, a long-sleeved top, and a light running coat (right now I wear my Brooks Nightlife Jacket).  I like to wear my running hat, as well, at this temperature range...especially in the lower 30s.  If it is in the 30s, I definitely wear my mittens.  Since my hands are always so cold, I have found that mittens work best for me.  I have to have my fingers all touching each other or else my hands cannot keep warm.  On my feet, I start wearing my heavier Balega winter running socks.  They are warmer than my other socks, for sure.  In this temperature range, I also try not to stop for long if I am running with a group of people.

In the 20 degree range, I wear my shorts and heavier pants.  On top, I do one of two combinations.  I will either wear a long-sleeved top and my winter running jacket, or I will wear a long-sleeved top, a fleece jacket, and my Brooks Nightlife Jacket.  I also wear my hat, my mittens, and my heavyweight winter running socks.  At this temperature range, I also put Aquaphor on my lips to prevent chapping.

When it is below 20 degrees, I typically wear a face mask.  I have one that goes up over your head, so there is a hat, too.  But I also throw another hat on top of that.  Below 20 degrees is also a good time to protect the little bit of skin left that is exposed to the elements.  I like to use my Aquaphor here.  At this temperature range, as gross as it seems and feels, I put it not just on my lips, but above my lips, around my nose, and on my cheeks.  It acts as a barrier for your skin from the elements.  I find it to be particularly important around my nose, as I tend to have leakage there when I run in colder temps. 

For any temp below 20 degrees, I typically add a second layer under my heavy fleece running pants, usually another pair of lightweight running pants or my Hot Chillys base layer tights.  At this point, I do not put shorts on as well.  I then put on one of the two previously discussed top layer scenarios from the 20 degree range.  If the temps are in the single digits, I might add an extra long-sleeved shirt or wear my heavy ski jacket over two long-sleeved shirts.  At this temperature range, I figure that it doesn't matter what I look like...at least I am out there doing it.  And at this range, it also doesn't matter how fast or slow I run, so if my ski jacket slows me down, so be it.  On my feet, I have doubled-up on my socks...wearing a lightweight pair under my heavyweight pair.  It worked fine for me, but you do have to be careful about blisters with doubling the socks.

For the record, if the temps are in the single digits, I do not prefer to be outside.  I will go out for a group run in this cold, but if it is a midweek solo run, I will usually resort to my dreadmill. Yes, even I can be a winter wimp!  ;)

You should know that I do not use running tights, so I cannot comment on them at this point.  The pants I run in are all made by Under Armour.  My heavyweight ones are made of fleece...one pair of which has an outer layer made of a thicker, more densely woven fabric on top of the fleece.

Lastly, I always use my BodyGlide, even in the winter.  If you are not familiar with this product, it is a solid skin protectant that you put on your body, wherever you need to, in order to prevent chafing.  It is kind of like a deoderant and vaseline all rolled into one product.  You can get it at sporting goods stores.
If you haven't ventured outside to run in the winter just yet, I hope you give it a try.  And perhaps some of my tips will help you make it more enjoyable for yourself!  Just remember that if you are prepared, you, too, can enjoy running in the winter!

Feel free to leave any questions you may have for me in the comments section below.

Winter...When I Am Free to Just Run

 

I ran with my Teammates yesterday...bright and early...in the freezing cold.  It was about 19 degrees out and the windchill made it bitter.  Yet, it surprisingly felt good.

I actually enjoy running in the winter.  Not the whole getting-up-out-of-my-warm-bed-to-freeze-my-feet-on-the-floor part.  Definitely NOT that.  But what I do enjoy about wintertime running is that my body doesn't get overheated like it does in the summertime.  True, it can be difficult to know how many layers to wear.  And it can feel wicked, standing in the cold as I wait for my Teammates for those very few minutes before we embark on our run.  Sometimes, even the first few miles are utterly Dreadful.  But once I get in that sweet spot, the place where heaven and hell collide, it's really not all that bad.  It feels refreshing, really.

Right after a light snowfall, before anyone else has trampled through the snow is one of my favorite times to run in the winter.  I like leaving my footprints behind, telling the world, yes, someone has been here...running...in the cold...and the snow.  It is a source of pride for me, but it is also calming to run in the still of that moment.  I love the scenery of the snow-laden branches on the trees.  It is actually one of the best times to run in solitude.  The world is so peaceful and beautiful.  And my breath, freezing as it comes out of my mouth, reminds me that even though I am starting to get warm, it is very cold out, indeed.

I also enjoy running as a snow is just beginning to fall.  As the flakes float through the air, I still try to catch them in my mouth like I did when I was 8 years old.  I like watching the flakes hit the ground so quietly.  It makes me think of how ironic it is...such a quiet kind of weather, that can make such a loud mess. 

Probably the only part of running in the winter that I don't like is how my fingers and toes feel.  I have long been a "cold" person, but especially my fingers and toes.  Over the years, I have tried many kinds of running gloves and mittens, along with disposable hand warmers.  I have finally found a pair of mittens that works for me...as long as I don't stand around in the cold too long before or after my run.  Of course, this all depends on the temperature.  If it is about 20 degrees or higher, I have found that I can wear my running mittens alone.  If it is on the colder end, I must start running immediately, otherwise it won't work and my fingers will be uncomfortable for a long time...possibly my entire run.  When it is below about 20 degrees, I use a light pair of gloves under my mittens and remove them, if necessary, during the run.  As for my toes, well, I currently wear a heavier pair of my balega socks, but that is not always enough.  I still need to figure out the best solution for my toes...I am thinking of trying smartwool next...

In the summertime, I struggle with hydration issues since I sweat...a...lot!  So I have to feel the bouncing and listen to the sloshing of the heavy bottles of replacement fluids I must carry with me on my run.  But, in the winter, I am free...to just run.

Sanity Breaks

Both today and yesterday I ran 4 miles on the treadmill.  I am gaining my confidence back and feeling more like my old self, just a whole heap slower.  My joints are still achy and I also noticed that my C-section area has been bothering me.  I wonder how long that will last.  This is definitely a long, slow challenge to come back to running, but I am finally feeling like my current goals are achievable and I am even considering what races to sign up for this year.  I am nervous about committing to something yet, though, because I have only just begun to run consistently.  I am one of those people who likes to have a goal to focus on to keep the momentum going.  It gives me a purpose for this "torture" I put my body through.  wink wink

Waiting for the boys to both take a nap at the same time so that I can run, though, can get frustrating.  They are still sick and we went back to the pediatrician again today.  He wants to try a different medication for them.  But with them being sick and irritable, they haven't really been on the same schedule much in the past few days.  It can be overwhelming listening to both of them cry all day long, so I really cherish my running time even more right now.  And I rely on their nap times for my running "sanity breaks".  For me, this is anxiety-producing, though, when they just aren't napping well.  Luckily, I got my sanity breaks 2 days in a row!!  Wooohoooo!!!

Making Progress

Well, I never did do any weight lifting on Monday.  It was a very busy day with my sick boys.  I started to really worry about them and ended up scheduling an appointment with the pediatrician.  The appointment was yesterday and I had to go solo...uuugh!  It is quite a challenge to bring the twins to the doctor's by myself while they are so little, but we always do manage somehow!  In any case, I loaded the boys up into the car and made it there just in time. 

The doc checked them both over very thoroughly and decided that Chub-Chub would be fine with a little bit of an antibiotic.  He figured the illness had gone on too long and wanted to see if we could clear it up.  Miracle Man sounded way more congested to him, though and he couldn't tell if his lungs were a little rattly or not.  So, he sent us off to the hospital for an x-ray of Miracle Man's lungs--just.in.case. 

Luckily, his lungs looked clear and we were sent on our merry way to go pick up the prescriptions for both boys.  The doc had already called in all the scripts to the pharmacy for me so that I wouldn't have to wait around with the two sick babies.  Unfortunately and fortunately, (and I had not realized this) the boys hadn't had a prescription filled yet at our pharmacy.  When I got there, they needed all of the boys' information to process and had obviously not yet filled the prescriptions for me.  Oh man!  I ended up waiting for nearly 45 minutes.

By the time I finally made it home, it had been at least a 4 hour extravaganza and I was exhausted!  I also think I might be coming down with a touch of something and boy, I was wiped out.  At that point, I just gave up on the idea of running or working out for the day. 

So later on, when Prince Charming got home and asked me if I was going to go for a run, I was like, Are You Kidding Me?  I started whining about how I don't feel well and how tired I was and how I had to make dinner and all sorts of excuses.  Prince Charming offered to make the dinner and then he kept telling me I should just go do it.  And I continued to whine.  But the more he pressed me, and the more I thought about it, I finally figured I could at least go down in the basement and walk a mile or so on the treadmill...just do...something. 

Little Miss wanted to come downstairs with me and I figured it would be good for her to get on the treadmill for a walk, too.  And besides, it never hurts for her to see her momma exercising, being a good role model.  Well, within minutes of getting down there and getting all set, I actually started to feel more energized. 

Little Miss went on the treadmill first, while I lifted some of my free weights and did a bit of jump rope...and by a bit, I really mean just one minute.  I definitely could've done more, but I didn't want to get too tired before I made it onto the treadmill.  And on top of that, I wasn't sure how sore my calves would be today if I did more.  And since today is my birthday, I definitely didn't want to be all out of sorts and achy.

When my darling daughter was finished with her turn on the treadmill, I jumped on, ready to go!  I was revved up!  I got on and did 4 miles!  Wooohoooo!  And the best part is that I saw progress in my running...and I felt like it was HUGE progress!  I wasn't huffing and puffing as badly during the first two miles.  And I definitely didn't want to quit by mile 3.  In fact, I felt so great that I actually increased my speed!!  By the time I was finished, I was very proud of myself.  I ran 4 miles, faster than I had on Sunday!  Yipppeeeeee! 

Today, my joints are a bit sore and achy, but I feel like I could run at least 2 or 3 miles.  I'd like to run soon and shower soon so that I am ready for my birthday festivities by the early afternoon and I am trying to work in the run on the treadmill around the boys' napping schedule.  But so far, they just don't want to nap at the same time today...for now, I guess I will just do the laundry...and wait. 

Updates on Twin Gear and Running Gear

I just added a few reviews to Gear I Run With and Twin Gear.  Check them out!

Another Day, Another Mile

So, I did get up and go for a run with my Team In Training friends yesterday.  We ran for 4 miles.  That was my first 4 miler since getting pregnant with my twins. 

I did a little bit of pumping just before heading out the door to make sure Prince Charming would be able to calm the boys before I got back if they woke up.  But it wasn't a full feeding for them, since I had just fed them.

Getting out of the house by myself two days in a row was, let's just say...AWESOME!!  After four months of non-stop craziness and being the sole caregiver, I guess I really needed to just be a "normal" human being for a while. 

The running part was pretty hard.  This was my third day in a row of running...a fete I had not yet accomplished up until this point.  And on top of it being the third day in a row, it was also the 4 miles that made it quite challenging.  I have always found that the first mile or two is tough...no matter how great of shape I am in.  So, naturally, yesterday's first two were hard.  Of course, there is the huffing and puffing that are Ridiculous.  But then, I also have the pain in my knees, my ankles, and my hips to contend with...all of which come from excess weight, the pregnancy's extra weight, and not exercising in forever.  Of all of the miles, I guess the third wasn't as bad as the others, but the 4th mile was pretty rough.  Luckily, the other people running with me are in a similar situation (not in the best shape), and so we were all feeling the challenge!  It helps so much to have other people suffer through it right along beside you!  Misery loves company!

But the worst of all of the pain I am currently experiencing on this journey back to fitness, is the pain I have in my pubic bone.  I hope I won't be cited for improper language on here for saying that.  The thing is that I would like other moms to know what it is like to come back to running and fitness after having a baby (or two).  And this pain is very real.  It is there all.day.long...whether I am walking, running, or laying down.  And now that I am starting to be able to increase my mileage, it seems to be a bit more painful.  Uuuuggh!  I just want my body back!

I have a body pillow that I sleep with at night for the hip pain and discomfort when my knees are touching as I lay on my side.  But that exacerbates the pain I have in my pubic bone right now.  It feels like the bone is going to split apart and break in two!  At the end of my pregnancy, I had started having this same pain from the weight of the boys on my body, but I guess I just figured it would go away once they were born.  I guess not.  I am thinking of heading to my Chiropractor for an adjustment.  I wonder if he could crack my hips in just the right way to put everything all back to normal.  Yes, my Chiropractor is a magician, too.  :)

Other than the aches and pains in my joints and bones, though, today I feel alright.  I don't have a ton of muscle soreness...a few tweaks here and there, but that's about it.  I am planning on taking today off from running, but possibly doing a little weight-lifting with the free weights I have at home...we shall see how I feel and how the boys are doing as the day progresses.  I wrote a separate post on the boys today...it's a funny one...check it out. :)

And Just Like That

Late last night, a friend from my TNT running group sent me a message asking me if I wanted to join a few of my teammates for a run this morning.  He wanted to make sure there would be other Teammates at the group run because most of our Team is away this weekend for various races...mostly in Florida doing the Disney Half, Marathon, or Goofy Challenge, or running as a team in the Ragnar Relay from Miami to Key West. 

I was hesitant to join them for a run at first because I am only up to running 3 miles.  But after expressing that concern, he explained to me that the group's plan was to run only 3 miles anyway.  Hmmmmm.....well, ok...BUT I am much ssssssllllllloooooooooowwwwweeeerrrr than I used to be and probably won't be able to keep up with you guys, I worried.  What pace are you planning on running, I asked.  Well, lo and behold they were running right around the pace that I was able to maintain on my dreadmill the day before!  Hmmmmm...Hmmmm....Hmm....And what time are you planning on going because I have baby boys to nurse every few hours??!!?  Oh, you're going to go right around when they have just finished eating and will be sleeping again????  Well, if you have to twist my arm...ok.

And just like that, I rejoined the Team this morning for a run! 

It was so.Incredibly.EXCITING!  To be back, to run outside, to talk with other runners, to talk with other ADULTS, to not be listening to two babies crying, to complete another run, to leave the house!  What a thrilling morning!  How Freeing!

Before I left the house, I fed the boys and then pumped as much as I could so that Prince Charming would have milk to feed the boys in case I wasn't back in time.  Fortunately, I also have a store of frozen milk from when Miracle Man was in the hospital.  They wouldn't let him eat anything for a few days while he was recovering from the surgery, so I had to pump in order to maintain the supply and not become engorged.  I came home with a huge bin of bottles, so there is never a concern if we need it for anything.

The run was a very slow three miler, but that was completely fine with me because I am still having a lot of joint pain from getting back into the running.  It was great to have a distraction from the pain in the company of the other runners. 

We arranged to meet again tomorrow for another run...most likely 4 miles.  I am a little hesitant to run that distance because I do not want to increase my mileage too much too soon and risk being injured after I just started back up again.  We will see...It will depend on how my body feels tomorrow.

Starting All Over Again

When I was pregnant with my daughter, I ran throughout the whole pregnancy until I was told to stop.  With the twins, though, my doctor told me that I wasn't allowed to do any activity at all, other than walking.  So, the Goofy Challenge in Disney last January, was really the only running I did in 2011, with the exception of the few miles I did in December to try to start running again. 

Recovering from the deliveries (both kinds, of course), especially the emergency C-Section, took a long time.  In fact, I still feel like I am recovering.  Besides that, the weight of the babies put a lot of stress on my body, for sure. 

It has taken a long time to get to the point where I have felt that my body was ready to run again.  In fact, it was at least 6 weeks before I even went for a real walk.  And, realistically, I do not have a ton of extra time on my hands with the twins, Little Miss, two cats, keeping up our home, and all of the doctor's appointments, as well as the hospital visits and surgery over the past few months. 

In any case, I am a runner.  And running is my passion.  It is my exercise.  It is my escape.  It's when I think and process.  It is my fun.  It is also how I can manage to stay sane, so now that we have the twins, more than ever, I need it.  And I miss being part of my Team. 

So, I have begun running again.  But.it.is.Hard.  It is always hard to start back up after a long absence, but after this whole past year of no running or exercise, it is really Hard. 

Last week, I finally managed to push through 3 miles a few times.  It wasn't pretty, and it wasn't quick.  But I did it.  So, this past Sunday, Prince Charming finally set up my treadmill for me in our new basement. I am hoping that I will be able to run regularly, even if it is just for a few miles, while the boys take their naps (assuming they nap at the same time). 

My goal is to try to be up to 5 miles by the end of January so that I can return to my beloved Team.  We meet only one day a week, so I think this is a realistic goal.  And besides, it will be my guaranteed, few hours per week for Me.  Of course, it means losing out on a few extra hours of sleep (and, no, the boys are not yet sleeping through the night).  But I am willing to sacrifice a few hours of sleep to get back to where I belong.

I was fortunate enough to be able to run on Tuesday of this week,  but the boys only gave me time to accomplish 2 miles in the morning.  Then, they granted me another 2 miles a few hours later.  But with them being sick, they are my priority, so the past two days I wasn't able to run at all, but today...

Today, I ran 3 miles.  I had all I could do to complete those three miles!  Not having been able to run much in the past week made it soooooo incredibly challenging!  But I repeated my mantra of the day, "Don't give up.  Don't give up.  Don't give up," in my head over and over.  That was how I got through the pain.  Well, that and a little music! 

After the 3 miles, I got off the treadmill.  I was very frustrated that it was so incredibly hard to run those three miles, so after a short rest period, I went back on for one mile of sprint work.  I am determined to get up to those 5 miles by the end of the month!