Guess What I Have For You! Support, Motivation, & Direction

Today I am announcing some exciting news! I am looking for 3 people that want to get off the couch to run or have just started running. I am looking for readers who feel that they need more support, motivation, and direction in their running adventures.

I am putting together a small virtual running group for beginners. The intent is to provide you with a support system that will encourage you to complete your goals. I am starting off with 3 people and seeing how well this works before making it a larger group.

How does it work?
The requirements are the following:
(1) You will first set a goal (5K, 10K, 15k, Half Marathon, etc or weight loss goals).
(2) You will choose a plan (if not already selected) to help you accomplish your running goals.
(3) You will record each workout (timing device or photo) to share with the HMR Community.
(4) You will check-in with your progress every week. During this time, I will also answer questions.
(5) Your progress will be recorded on HMR. Where you will also be asked to do a few guest posts about your training, accomplishments, road blocks, etc.
(6) At the end of all your work you will run your race!

*The goal is have the environment to be held accountable for your workouts and runs. This will provide that necessary accountability that many feel they are lacking

If you are interested in partaking in Team Happy Mother Runner and would like to be considered. Please answer the following questions and send your responses to HappyMotherRunner@gmail.com
1) Name
2) City
3) Are you running yet? If yes, what is your longest distance completed and average pace?
4) What has drawn you to running?
5) What are your most important goals that you want to accomplish?
6) Do you have Skype or Google chat? What way do you feel best communicating online?
 
The deadline to submit your information is April 7th. Three runners will be chosen shortly after.
If you have any questions, please feel free to comment below.

Until next time...
Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

Slow Runners Shouldn't Race (well at least that's what I'm told)

Pearl Izumi recently came out with an ad that states "The Marathon. Once a test of will, now a test of patience."

I understand that there is A LOT of controversy over slow runners partaking in ultras, marathons, and half marathons. There is now an overarching assumption that the sport of running has been weakened by those who aren't fast and/or elite.

As a slow runner I am not offended, but more disappointed that people see me for my speed instead of looking at my effort. I am out running 4 times a week. I have decreased my pace by 2 minutes per mile over the last year. And I have NEVER disrespected a race and have always pushed myself to be better.

I PAY to participate in races I know I have no chance of winning. I also cheer on those who are "fast" and look-up to runners who are considered elite. I recently saw a comment on a post out there in the Internet Universe that said something along the lines of "You aren't a true 'Runner' if you can't qualify for Boston." I may never qualify for Boston, but I do dream that maybe (one day years from now) I just might make it.

I feel like a lot of the controversy stems from the fact that running has no 'real' rules. Anyone can do it. The idea of calling a slow runner an "Athlete" (gasp) boggles the minds of many.

But the real question is, "what's the big deal?" As long as I am not in front of you in a race and I pull to the side when you're lapping me (yes I do) what is the problem? I never register for a race that I do not meet the pace/time requirements. So there should be no reason why the water stations have nothing left for me or that the volunteers are taking down the finish line before I cross.

I just ask for the same consideration from running companies, race organizers, and other runners that I give to them. Putting down the little (slow) guy isn't any way to increase profits, race registrations, or make friends.

I AM A RUNNER. Maybe a slow one... but who are you to judge?

**UPDATES**
A reader of HMR posted this link "Pearl Izumi Ads Separate the Runners From the Pussies… I Mean Joggers" explaining why Pearl is right in their campaign.<--- this blog post has since been deleted and has been replaced with a public apology "Pearl Izumi and Pussy Apology" 
I do want to acknowledge something Vanessa said "Runners are runners. Runners KNOW they are runners. Runners are NOT defined by an ad campaign." She really is sincere in the fact that we shouldn't let others define us. As I stated above "Who are you to judge?" We know who we are and will not let othera define us!
To Vanessa (if you ever read this, which I doubt) keep strong! I may not have shared your view on the subject (100%) but I respect the idea that all people have different views on topics. Your intent at trying to tell people not to let a campaign define them was heard and I respected that.
Sincerely,
Me

Also...

Another reader, Elizabeth, received a response from Pearl after she sent them an email explaining her distaste for their marketing campaign and this is their response (also found below in the comments):

Dear Elizabeth,

We really appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts about the Run like an Animal Marathon Ad. This is actually an Ad from 2010 that we decided not to run any longer; we are currently trying to discover where this ad was disseminated?! Please let us know where you saw this!

I apologize that the ad struck such a negative cord with you. Our only intention is to inspire runners to get out and run. This was never about being an elite athlete or the time you finish a race. This is about a state of mind. We want people to challenge themselves and test their limits. We want you to feel great about being a runner and we want to celebrate the human effort to push yourself to be as good as you can be. We consider anyone who is out there testing their limits and trying to be improve to a runner.

Please accept our sincere apology!

Sincerely,
Kody Riley

And also...

Elle posted a link to a public apology made today by Pearl. Here is what they said:

"Hey everyone, we really appreciate you taking the time to share you thoughts about the Run like an Animal Marathon ad. This is actually an Ad from 2010 that we decided not to run any longer; we are currently trying to discover where this ad was disseminated?! Please let us know where you saw this! I apologize that the ad struck such a negative cord with you. Our only intention is to inspire runners to get out and run. This was never about being an elite athlete or the time you finish a race. This is about a state of mind. We want people to challenge themselves and test their limits. We want you to feel great about being a runner and we want to celebrate the human effort to push yourself to be as good as you can be. We consider anyone who is out there testing their limits and trying to be improve to a runner. Please accept our sincere apology!"

** Any other update or opinions I would love to see and share!**

Case of the Mondays

Have you ever seen Office Space? If you have you probably remember the clip below. Don't you just want to scream!?



For me I am having a horrible case of the Monday's. A lot stems from an amazing and emotionally charged race on Saturday that has given me the running blues, as well as <insert whisper> that time of the month, and the very basic fact that it is Monday. I have been trying to find things around me that make me smile and think, "Monday isn't so bad!" So here it is, my anti-case of the Monday's list.

#1 - Really taking in the the beauty that is NYC.

#2 - Seeing a group of small children watching the trains pass by and getting the conductor to honk his/her horn.

#3 - Spotting a poster with crazy discounted tickets to go see Spider Man the musical

#4 - Realizing that I shouldn't feel blue about an amazing race. Instead I should be depressed by the pile of readings I have stacked on my desk... <sigh> graduate school stinks!

#5 - An amazing salad for lunch with mixed greens, apples, cranberries, turkey, tomatoes, and eggplant. Yummy.

#6 - Seeing a professor cruise down a hall on a non-motorized scooter (no picture, sorry)

#7 - Passing by an office of an elderly man, who is sitting at his desk jamming out to the Dirty Dancing soundtrack (no picture, sorry)

#8 - This face.

#9 - And this face.

After writing this post Monday doesn't seem so bad after all!

Diamond in the Rough

As I sit here at midnight (not being able to sleep), I scan through the channels looking for anything that might be of interest. A-HA! One of my favorite shows, The Antiques Roadshow. Yep I LOVE sitting and watching a typical everyday person bring in some of the most hideous unique pieces of junk eclectic charm. The stories behind how these items have been acquired are just as interesting as the item itself: the great grandmother was a personal secretary to Abe Lincoln, it was bought at an estate sale of the great great granddaughter of a colonial settler, it was handed down from 15 different generations.

But the best part of the show is when the appraiser tells the owner how much the item would go for at auction. Sometimes a piece that I think is worth millions won't fetch $20.00. But there are those moments where the owner is told that they own a baseball bat worth $25,000. The man/woman gasp for air and commonly grab their chest thinking that they are having a heart attack. Sometimes they even jump up and down; but more often then not they quietly weep. They have discovered an amazing hidden value to something that they took for granted.

We all can't be as lucky to have found a $35,000 needle point. But what we learn from the Antiques Roadshow we can apply to ourselves and our daily life. Never underestimate our true worth. You don't know what you're capable of until you put yourself out there to truly "appraise" your hidden value; this could be a half marathon, marathon, IronMan, or even the first step of the first mile you will ever run.

With this wisdom I impart to you, I think it's time for me to hit the sack before I start explaining the learning value of the Jersey Shore :)

Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

Dr. Seuss For The Athlete Soul

Happy Birthday to one of the most amazing and brilliant men in literary history.... The Wonderful Dr. Seuss. In honor of his magnificent work, I have put together a list of running lessons that can be learned from his quotes.

For your reading pleasure, Dr. Seuss For The Athlete Soul!


Lesson 1: Don't put off a run until tomorrow that you can do today.
How did it get so late so soon? Its night before its afternoon. December is here before its June. My goodness how the time has flewn. How did it get so late so soon?


Lesson 2: Your effort, even one mile, never goes unrewarded.
You're in pretty good shape for the shape you are in.


Lesson 3: When life gets complicated take a deep breath, get out there, and run!
Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.


Lesson 4: Don't let obstacles get you down (injury, training plateau, etc), face them head on.
I have heard there are troubles of more than one kind. Some come from ahead and some come from behind. But I've bought a big bat. I'm all ready you see. Now my troubles are going to have troubles with me!


Lesson 5: If you think today's run was amazing, wait until you put on your shoes tomorrow. The next adventure is right around the corner.
Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.


Lesson 6: When your brain tells your body to stop, don't let your feet listen.
And will you succeed? Yes indeed, yes indeed! Ninety-eight and three-quarters percent guaranteed!


Lesson 7: Don't be intimated by the starting line or your anticipated training mileage.
Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So... get on your way.


Lesson 8: Don't be afraid of trying something new (a routine, route, race distance, or a new form of cross-training)
If you never did you should. These things are fun and fun is good!


Lesson 9: Running is a solitary sport, and only you can push yourself to the next level.
All alone! Whether you like it or not, alone is something you'll be quite a lot


Lesson 10: When you hit a roadblock physically or mentally, remember that it happens to every runner.
I'm sorry to say so but, sadly it's true that bang-ups and hang-ups can happen to you


Lesson 11: When non-runners tell you that your running is crazy, just smile.
I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells.


Lesson 12: Most importantly... never, ever give up on your goals.
If things start happening, don't worry, don't stew, just go right along and you'll start happening too.


Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

Go Run

Daily Motivation

I love daily motivation. One of my favorite things are those daily calendars with sayings to inspire or comics to make you laugh. I actually refuse to flip through it, just because I love the feeling of surprise. I even have a background picture on my desktop of a man running through a beautiful forest. It actually has gotten me out of my office to run more than a handful of times. I have a lot to be grateful for, don't get me wrong, but there are days that I just need that boost (in honesty who doesn't and if you don't you are really lucky).

While browsing through pinterest while waiting for a UPS truck to move from the only three parking spots available at the university,  I came across a picture that made me smile and totally motivated me. I had to share it with the rest of the world (even though it's already out there for the world..LOL!).

I think one of my new things will to share what motivates me. It's easy to lose that spark when you are bogged down with work, school, mommyhood, and everything else in life. What motivates you?

Running Shoes and Guilt

As a running mother, there are days that I feel down right guilty going out the door. And there have been times where my guilt takes over the reasoning part of my brain and I take off my shoes and actually give up a run. This isn't just a mommy problem, but a problem for any woman who has work or home obligations. We think, "Really? Is it ok for me to go for run when the shit is hitting the fan at home or work?!" And the answer is YES! Go run! By allowing yourself time to go run and focus on YOUR health, you are bringing a better you back into the work and home environment. And what does that mean for the people around you? A happier and more sane you! (see the clip below)



Running and exercise develops endorphins that are vital to making you happy. So why is it important to be happy? Well it helps you live longer. What a concept... happy people live longer! (see the clip below)



One of the main ways to stay/be happy is to make sure you do not postpone your happiness. So lace up those shoes, put your blackberry on silent, and give your child a hug and kiss goodbye and get your run on! Because running = happiness and happiness = longevity so RUNNING = LONGEVITY! Let's dedicate this run to becoming a healthy, happy, 100 year old runner!

Happy Running!

Cold Wind, Wet Feet, & Hot Soup!

Unless it was yesterday... YIKES!

Even though I woke up with a sore throat and runny nose, I pushed myself out the door. I was suppose to run 7 miles but ended up completing 7.71. I am extremely happy about my distance. My time not so much, but because I wasn't feeling well and haven't been running consistently this last week, I was ok with it.

I am happy that I passed up a run yesterday to do one today. Yesterdays weather was HORRIBLE! The snow storm hit the North East and hit it hard. By the time I was able to run the slush was ankle deep and I would have frozen my toes off.

Today's run had considerably better weather. Granted, there was a cold wind that stung my face when running by the water. And every now and then, I would accidentally catch a puddle getting my feet wet. But the best part of my run was finishing it and going to Brooklyn Bagel and getting myself a hot bowl of delicious veggie soup!

I guess sometimes all it takes is a decent run to make things in the world feel right again. I wasn't inside my head this time around. Instead, I was 100% into my run taking in my surroundings and feeling it. It was a completely different feeling compared to my last one.

I am also happy that I have finally found a top that doesn't try to ride up while I am running. I have been having problems with winter attire staying put. I am so excited because this top moved with me, kept me warm, and looked great. YAY!!

My Head Is Playing Games

The other day a family member commented on how fat I still look even after all my running. At first the comment hurt, but after overcoming the sting I started to ponder why and it dawned on me that maybe I need to diversify my exercise routine. So I decided that I needed to really focus on my strength training. I know that I have it on my calender, but it is usually the first thing I skip when I need time to get work done for school or work.

So I started my Jillian Michaels routine. Two/three times a week I am alternating between "6 weeks to a 6 pack" and "30 day shred". I am hoping that tacking this on to my running will help build a stronger core, which is what I am really aiming for (not a thinner figure but a stronger one).

Even after figuring out my new plan of attack, my early morning run yesterday made me want to scream. It was one of those runs that was just hands down horrible. I know everyone has bad runs and to truly appreciate the good ones you have to experience the bad. But it's hard when you already feel like you are floundering. "You're fat! You're fat" kept running through my head. Along with "You're slow! "You're Slow!" (slow is my critique of myself). When I finally got home I just wanted to cry. But I told myself that the only way to get over this is to fix it. So I put in 30 day shred and worked my warm muscles a little more. Afterwards I felt a lot better.

I am my biggest critic. And I never thought that this journey would be easy, but I have learned one big lesson....As much as I train my body I also need to train my mind and thoughts to help me along and not bring me down.

Sometimes you need a comedic release!

As any runner will agree, when you get your BrightRoom photos back most of the time they are less than flattering. At points I feel like they are a slight jab to my ego. So when I came across this I had to post! Oh how true it is :)

It's a sign

So R-day (race day) is coming fast.... 5 days! Since I had school late we ordered Chinese food and my fortune cookie read:

"Inch by Inch life's a cinch. Yard by Yard life is hard"

For the first time ever I really thought my fortune was right on. Now to mentally prepare for my first half!

Until next time Cheers and Happy Trails!