My run this morning was awesome! I ran 13.17km in 1:09:10 and 5:15 was our average pace. The Runners’ Edge crew really are great people to run with. What a GOOD run! There was four of us running together at that pace. We were supposed to run at race pace but we actually even ran a little bit faster. I was okay with it because it did feel really good and was quite enjoyable. I was definitely tired by the end of my run and could feel myself slowing down although I rememebered and repeated in my head we are almost there and pain is temporary! I was able to push it at the end, so I was happy.

When I think back to when I was training last summer, I remember that I did not like talking AT ALL while running. Yes, I know.. who else would I talk to other than myself since I ran solo. Well on my long runs my supportive husband would bike beside me. He would do the talking, singing, blabbing… whatever his little heart desired although he knew he wouldn’t get a response. Maybe a thumbs up or a thumbs down. In comparison to todays run, where we talked the entire time and I loved it. What a difference! It was fun and helped pass the time. I wasn’t thinking about not being able to feel my face since it was -17 with the windchill, or doubting myself and hiding in the nearest snowbank. (Ok, maybe I was a little tired at the end but I still made it). I was just running and felt so good and strong.

My new shoes finally came in and my feet are thanking me already. I felt support around my feet where I hadn’t felt it for awhile. I didn’t make any big changes in brands or models. I think it’s best to stick with what works, especially in the middle of training for a race which is why I stuck with the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 10.

Do you have a favorite pair of shoes or brand that you prefer?

This morning it was like an ice rink… it was sooo icy outside!

I was supposed to run 13km this morning but since my knee has been really bothering me, Coach B said to only run 10km. Surprisingly, I had a great run. I didn’t run at race pace although I was able to keep my pace somewhat up and tried to really focus on my form. Compared to yesterday (-18) today was only 1 degree but felt like -4 with the windchill. I’ll take that! Ok, obviously I would rather take a hot day on the beach, but I’m trying to be realistic here. It was a nice change to not have 4 different layers on. I only ran with my Mizuno Breath Thermo shirt and my Adidas Running jacket. I love the thermo shirt. It keeps me so warm and my skin dry. It not only wicks sweat from your body but it changes sweat into heat… how cool is that!?  Very cool. For any winter runner, I would highly recommend this shirt. It’s pricey, but it is worth it… and this is coming from a girl who thinks twice before making a purchase like that.

My Dad stopped by for a visit today because he was in the area and brought me a treat. I have heard a lot about Chobani Yogurt  lately and wanted to try it out for myself and find out what’s so good about it. My generous parents brought me a container back from the states since it’s not available in Canada.

I have yet to try it, but when I do I will let you know how it is! Taste wise I still don’t know but I do know that it’s all natural and has quite a bit of protein. Have any of you ever tried it?

Yesterday was mine and GMan’s 1st wedding anniversary. Crazy how time flies! We had a nice low key weekend and enjoyed our time together. We went out for dinner on Saturday and ate way to much had a nice Meal. GMan was happy to have something other than soup and actually eat something that didn’t come out of the Vitamix. I knew we were going to go to East Side Mario’s so I purposely didn’t eat anything after my 15km rollercoaster run, other than my regular protein shake. I ate every last strand off my plate. The waitress commented that I ate a lot and that she didn’t think I would be able to. Ha! I showed her. That’s not something I should be proud of, is it? Probably not.

This salad deserves its own picture.. it's THAT good.

We also enjoyed a piece of our wedding cake aswell. GMan wasn’t quite sure if we should be eating a piece of cake that was a year old but I assured him since it had been frozen we wouldn’t catch any illnesses. We had a vanilla cake with vanilla butter cream with a hint of raspberry, and it was so delicious! I’m surprised how much I enjoyed eating it a year later. It reminded me of our wedding day and how special it was. It seems like time went by so quickly this past year which is yet another reason and reminder to really embrace and live in each moment as they come.

**Wedding photographer: www.bassem.ca