October Goals & Obstacles

I officially registered for the Provo Halloween Half Marathon for Sat. October 29.  I ran my first half marathon almost exactly a year ago:  October 2, 2010 and really didn't have huge desires to run another one just yet.  Even 2 months ago I didn't really want to do another one.  But after loving the Red Rock relay and hearing from several other friends who are running the Halloween Half... I finally decided to take advantage of my "running momentum" and go for it.

My first half marathon time was 2:36:00... with an average pace of 12 min. miles.  That's slow for me, but I was proud of myself for running the whole thing without stopping once for a walking break-- it's kind of a miracle for me because I tend to like those walking breaks.  But I just kept trudging along.  I'd forgotten my running watch that morning so really had no clue what my time would be.  I also didn't listen to any music until around mile 11 when I needed a pick-me-up and listened to some "Switchfoot" songs on repeat until the end. The race took place in Leavenworth, WA (my first mission area) and it really is one of the most beautiful scenic places I've ever been to-- my main motivation for wanting to do it!

I'm not sure what my "game plan" is for this race.  I'm really hoping my friend Bekah is able to run it with me, but lately she's having hip pains so I'm not sure if she'll be feeling good enough to run.  But she's already committed to a sleepover with me and Cassity the night before, and that's something to look forward to! :)  I might try to insert some scheduled "walk breaks" in this race, but then again... I may just play it by ear and see how I'm feeling.  In the next few weeks I really need to increase my mileage and not avoid long runs.  Last year I ran 10 miles once, about a week before the race, and that was the most I'd ever run.  This year I've run  almost 9 miles at a time, but I really need to do a few more solid LONG runs before the big day.

Here's the tricky thing:  This past week I was practically attacked from all sides with every craving and weakness that could totally de-rail me from my running goals. Just to name a few that I gave into:

Other cravings I've resisted but just might embrace soon:

Diet starts Monday, right?  That's usually what I like to tell myself.

Here's the thing-- there will be no diet for me.  But I DO know that I need to eat healthier... specifically more vegetables.  I usually kind of avoid loading up on vegetables because the consequences aren't too great, but I'm going to try to add more in, little by little.  I like raw vegetables with Ranch, and I do like some cooked vegetables. I even like salads... I think I mostly just don't have the patience to prepare it all.  Or I actually buy a bunch of good produce, but don't use it in time and end up with slimy vegetables in the bottom drawer of the fridge.  And then I think, "What a waste!" and would rather buy cans of Spaghettios.  

So I'm going to try to eat more vegetables.

Usually it goes like this:  If I'm eating well, I'm more inclined to run and be active.  If I give in to a craving at a fast food place or eat crap all day long... the last thing I want to do is run.  These next 4 weeks are crucial!  I can't mess up now.  No more crazy cravings... unless I allow myself a donut or something tomorrow.  Saturday is a special day. :)  But for real! Starting Monday... this girl won't be so weak to accept my cravings and distractions related to food.

I sure do love to eat!

But it feels much better to run and be active and feel good inside and out.  Here's to October and it's many wonderful goals and obstacles!