Hey all you blogg’n babes!!  So it turns out I didn’t fall off the face of the earth after my race… things just got busy and we had some things to take care of. Don’t worry, I still made time to stalk your blogs and see how you are all doing!

In regards to my recovery after my race, I was fine. I probably would have been better if I had an ice bath but alas – I did not. I was definitely sore for a couple of days but other than than no complaints. GMan and I were quite the pair… remember what happened?

Between both of us trying to get up and down the stairs, it was quite a comical scene. Although I’m happy to report that he actually twisted his ankle again — wait for it, — I’m not that mean of a wife— And he must have twisted something back into place because since then, it hasn’t been bothering him as much!! YAH for being a clutz, I guess?!

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I took about a week off after ATB, but was getting a bit ansy to get my sweat on again. I did some High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and it felt GREAT. I actually really enjoy it and feel like I get more bang for my buck at times. When I do a HIIT workout, I mean I blare some music and basically dance around the house like a crazy woman. Intense, I know. Don’t worry,.. I’m obviously joking — partially.

Watching The Biggest Loser has inspired me to try boxing and man does it feel good! For those of you that watch The Biggest Loser, does it inspire you at times? I would love to have Jillian Michaels kick my booty in a last chance workout.

The contestants growth and transformations since the beginning is incredible! It really does prove that it is NEVER to late to get out there and start moving, even if one starts with baby steps. Every ounce of effort counts. The most important thing is to take advantage that we can get out there, get our bodies moving to maintain a healthy body and healthy mind and to be greatful while doing so!

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The past couple weeks with work have been F.U.N. I work with a group of International Students, I take them on trips and we have a blast.

I have been to Toronto many times, but it was a first to actually go to the very top of the CN Tower. 114 building stories is a lonnnnggg ways up!

It was a perfect day for it too!  Soooo pretty!!!

Laying on the glass floor was a bit eery but so cool!

I went to the Butterfly Conservatory… who knew so many people could be so scared of such pretty creatures.

pretty crazy that they produce their own butterflies there.

We went to a Blue Jay’s baseball game. Don’t ask me who won… because I have no clue. In all fairness though, we didn’t stay until the very end.

The one day we went behind Niagara Falls but unfortunately there wasn’t much to see as it was foggy and most of it was frozen, so not much action there.

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For those Canadians out there, there is something big you need to hear about! Bonnie and her husband Mikey, are doing a cross Canada tour of their film “The Wrong Way to Hope” which is “set against the dramatic backdrop of the Owyhee River gorge deep in the SE Oregon desert, a group of ordinary Canadians embark on a journey of a lifetime down the one of the most remote rivers in the Lower 48. This incredible river journey is all the more remarkable as the core expedition members are all young adults and survivors of cancer.” You can read more of the synopsis HERE.

Bonnie and Mikey are an incredibly inspiring young couple who are sharing the stories and speaking out for all young adult cancer survivors and promoting awareness. I can’t wait to check out one of the screenings when they are in my area. You can check out the event dates HERE and if you are able to go and show your support, please do!!

I had to work the one day, but after falling over a couple of times and getting a pep talk from GMan, I survived. Honestly, I have the best husband EVER!!! I am such a lucky girl!!!

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don't judge. this was very early in the morning.. hot, i know!

happy and ready to go with only one layer..bonus!

Today I ran with the Runners’ Edge group . It was soo great to see everyone again! I ran 50 minutes and really enjoyed my run. I don’t know how far I ran but to be honest, I don’t really care. I was just happy to be out running with some awesome people. Right now, I’m just really focusing on listening and taking care of my body but at the same time taking every opportunity I can to get out and run, exercise and move my legs.

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Run hard, Eat well and live better friends!!

 Let me tell you is it ever AWESOME not to have to bundle up with 5 layers of gear to go for a run… Spring is finally here!!

As you obviously know (because I’ve only mentioned it about 2000 times) this past Sunday, I ran my first ever 30km road race.

I ran the last 12km of the course on one of my training runs and it didn’t go so hot but I was determined to not think about that on race day.

Two of my running buddies rode up with me and we arrived in lots of time. I was surprised at how calm and relaxed I felt that morning… once we got to the venue all I wanted to do was sit, chill and rest my legs before having to stretch and get going. So that’s just what I did.

My awesome Parents drove down to cheer me on which I appreciated SO very much!! It was so awesome to have them there.

Coach B led all the Runners’ Edge runners through our regular warm-up and stretches that we normally do.

We can do the best planks in town.

When I was trying to think about what I would write in this post, part of me was at a loss for words. That doesn’t happen very often.

chuckling about something

Was I disappointed I didn’t finish in the time I was hoping? Absolutely.

Was I going to let that get me down and deter me from celebrating what I DID accomplish? Heck no.

I am proud of myself for completing my first 30km and was so happy to cross that finish line.

I’m not even going to tell you my pace because it’s embarrassing but I will tell you that I started out well, was on pace and ran the first 10km in 55:42. Before I even hit the 10km mark I got a severe side stitch and it stuck with me for the majority of the race. If it wasn’t in my side, the pain would shoot up to my left collar bone. Annoying and painful! I tried to push through it a couple of times but there were times where I just stopped to walk to try and stretch it out and breath deep.

There was never a time throughout the race where I wanted to quit and give up. I got mad at myself because I was going so slow but then I would snap out of it and remind myself to just enjoy the race and just focus on the finish line. So that I did! I had a weird feeling throughout the race though, I don’t even know how to explain it. My heart and mind wanted and knew I could go faster but my body wouldn’t let me… but that’s okay.

I saw my sister and brother-in-law at KM 18 and that was an awesome boost. What is it with running and emotions? When I saw them I got all emotional and almost started crying. I was teary even before the race when I was hugging my Mom for luck. It was her fault though.. she started it :)

The sense of community with the Runners’ Edge group (before, during and after the race) was amazing and so inspiring! I feel so priviledged to be part of such a dedicated and supportive group of runners. There was encouragement and hugs all around, fellow runners cheering us on throughout the course and positive energy all around. I am so so thankful for Coach B who helped each one of us along. He ran the race himself (and killed it!) yet he came back out to run some of us in. The extra push and encouragement he gave me at the end helped me so much and I was able to finish strong. Thank you SO much, Coach B!!

Over 7000 people ran the 30km.

I was so impressed with how organized this race was, not only for runners but for spectators aswell. It was nice they had a warm place to sit for the entire time rather than standing out in the cold for hours.. and I say hours because it took me 3. This race was hard. It’s not only a physical test but more so a mental test, especially that killer hill at the end.

 I’m already looking forward to running ATB next year and beating that time.

proudly showing off our medals!

I know I can do it. With determination, dedication, a great support system and a positive attitude, I know I can push myself and accomplish great things.

I hope you all had a fantabulous weekend!!!

Yes, I know it’s already Tuesday. I’m a little behind… I have been MIA for the last few days as there has been lots going on!

Friday, GMan and I spent the day in the hospital between my appointments and visiting with one of my best friends who recently had surgery. Even though the last couple of times we’ve gone back home have been super rushed, the visits are always enjoyable. It was nice to get a home cooked meal by my Madre too… I bet GMan was even more thankful since I haven’t been the best cook this past week.    

self timer pics are the best, right?

Saturday we were off to the Around the Bay Expo to pick up my race packet chip. The expo was very busy although well organized. I was really surprised that we didn’t actually get a race ‘packet’, it was only our timing chip and a shirt. Any other race I’ve ran they’ve had a bag of goodies with samples and flyers along with the timing chip. What a bummer.

A look at the arena and finish line for the first time… really neat to see! 

just imagine this isn't blurry.. thanks.

 

the loot

 

 

Oh by the way, I HAVE THE BEST HUSBAND EVER!!!! Look what he surprised me with (for him to wear)

I couldn’t believe it! Isn’t he just the best?! I really do have the most supportive and loving husband. ever. Gracias Baby!!

What was the highlight of your weekend?!

PS: Sorry for all the big spacing and ugliness… wordpress isn’t cooperating with me.. either that or I don’t know what I’m doing.