Think about your 'why'

Last night Caleb and I went for a 3 mile run and it was basically the worst ever. Not going to lie, I almost cried. I could tell I was holding Caleb back, and he kept saying it was fine, yadda yadda yadda... but I hated that feeling. For some reason (& I know its because I didn't run at all last week) my legs felt like a ton of bricks and with every step my thighs burned worse and worse, which caused me to stop and 'catch my breath' a LOT more than normal.

I can usually last about a mile (again, getting back on the running wagon is hard) before needing to walk for a second, but we hardly made it three quarters of the way through our first mile before I was asking him to slow down, and then eventually stop. Bless Caleb's heart, he tried so hard to motivate me, and if I'm being totally honest it was kind of irritating in the moment ;) wife of the year, anyone? I truly just hated the jealousy I had for him. His speed, and more so his ability to keep going. He basically told me to get it together, find a good song to pump me up and to "think about my why". Uhh, hello..."what do you even mean!?!". He just started running faster and I had no choice but to push myself...

Well I'm really glad he did. We ended up finishing a 5k distance throughout our subdivision and while it felt like the worst thing ever, I'm so thankful he pushed me yesterday.

The duration of that run though, I continued thinking about what he said. What WAS my 'why'? Why was I pushing myself through the mental battle of running another mile when I truly just wanted to be at home relaxing on my couch?
During that last mile I think I found my answer. I'm running because I want to prove something to myself...that I can do hard things. I can train my body to endure more miles, I can become a better version of myself just through another mile or two. Not only become healthier physically, but spiritually as well.

Running brings me joy. Sometimes certainly not WHILE I'm running, but I generally feel more accomplished, and that certainly trickles down into other areas of my life as well. I want to be a better version of myself, all the time. More kind, more giving, more joyful...healthier, sillier and happier.

I feel like with running, there are good days and there are bad days...and then there are REALLY bad days, like yesterday. But that's kind of like our life, right? Some days are great, and others not so much. But we put on a good song, cry it out, move on, and get the job done. Because we CAN.

I'm thankful for the best training partner a gal could ask for. I truly am amazed at what we can push our bodies to do when we tell our minds we're up for the challenge. Whether that be a race, working a long weekend, or even simply making it to the grocery store with all your kids (I don't know how you mommas do it!!)...set yourself up to win this week!

The weather here in Cincinnati has been unreal lately. So much sunshine, light and breezy. I'm absolutely loving it! I even got a little red during our run, ouch! Who knew you could need sunscreen mid-March?

Happy hump day, friends!

Half Marathon, here I come {progress report}!

Sunday afternoon I ran. I FINALLY ran. It's been a LONG time, and now I remember how much I like to run, and why I like it so much (you know, when my legs don't feel like they are going to fall off). While my feet pace along the sidewalk, I don't think about the troubles of my day or the worries I have about the future. I feel optimistic about the stressful days we may have ahead, and that makes me want to run even more.

Caleb is the one who convinced me to get out there Sunday afternoon, and he went with me. I'm surprised he even convinced me, I just ate a big lunch and dropped Becky off at the airport, so I kind of just wanted to flop on the couch. BUT! We both knew we had to start training. Oh thats right, we've officially decided to run the Flying Pig Half Marathon again!! 

We're planning to run tonight after work, which will mark 4 days in a row now! I haven't felt this great in a long time. When I went to the Doctors last week, and saw the scale, it wasn't a great feeling. Trust me, I don't define myself by the number I see on that scale, but it was quite the wake up call that I cannot continue being lazy. Seriously, the only things that fit comfortably anymore are my socks.

Something about running just makes me feel more productive. When I try to be better in one aspect of my life, the rest just kind of flows more naturally. Just like when I read my Bible in the mornings. When I spend time with The Lord first thing, I just have a better perspective on the rest of my day. I'm happier, more optimistic and want to take better care of myself.

Last night, we spent our evening rushing around from running outside, to a church meeting, then to  go grocery shopping. We didn't make it home until nearly 9, but having good food that'll keep us on track throughout the week has become a priority to us.

We now have a little under 10 weeks until our half marathon, so I've got a long way to go! BUT! I'm dedicated to really training this time. I think it'll be great motivation for me and be something fun for Caleb and I to do together again.

How's your week going?

Contemplating another race...

Oh how proud I am of these few numbers on this little piece of paper!

Flash back to May, 2013. Erin picked me up and we headed Downtown to go see our husbands finish their first half marathon. Erin and I still laugh when we think about how rough we were looking that morning, but it really didn't matter, we were going to see our men cross that finish line and celebrate! That's what mattered!

We kind of got a little emotional watching them accomplish this huge victory and crossing that finish line! It was then that I decided that I wanted to have a moment like that one day. So the next year, we all geared up and decided to do it together. It.was.freaking.brutal.y'all!! BUT it's one of my favorite memories with our foursome and we loved it (even if I was slower than a group of turtles running through peanut butter)...

...it was slow, it was painful, but this beautiful medal and my sense of accomplishment made it ALL worth it!!

I had never experienced pain like I did those 72 hours after that first race It was really bad that entire evening following, so I basically grabbed everything from our freezer and covered my legs with them. In that moment I pretty much decided I'd never run again....

...so what's the only logical thing to do? Convince yourself it was worth it and run it again the next year! ;) I even cut over an hour off my time!

But the recovery from my second half was much worse, as I didn't train properly. My body just wasn't ready to go from practically nothing to running uphill for 7 miles straight. It was brutal and I could hardly walk for 3 weeks. So much so that I thought maybe I tore something. Luckily, it all felt normal again soon...but I convinced myself there was no way I'd ever run that particular race again. I even questioned if running was "for me". Since then, I haven't gotten as into running as I used to be. I think I started putting too much stress on myself that the thought of running just kind of annoyed me. The comparison game was another issue "I'm not fast enough", blah blah blah.

BUT!

I was so silly to think like that.

Running is for ANYONE who can get off the couch and make themselves endure it. Running is for anyone who puts one foot in front of the other, no matter how slow!

So...now I think I want to run the race again. 

I'm all over the place, I know. I think i'm going to take this week and really pray about the decision. I think it would be fun to run my third half marathon alongside my husband, again! I think it would be a fun challenge to beat my last race time and set a few goals for myself throughout the training process. PLUS it would be a fun excuse to whip out my favorite workout pants! ;)

What about you guys? Any fun exercise goals this year? Any races on your calendars?!

Flying Pig Half Marathon {2.0} Recap!!

It happened! Caleb and I ran our second half marathon together! I have to say I wasn't too nervous beforehand, which is strange, seeing as last year I had those crazy weird butterflies in my belly about 4 days prior all the way up until the start line! This year? I had trained much harder...probably not as much as I should've, but I was much more confident in my abilities this year!

I'll admit, when my 4:15 A.M. alarm went off I questioned why in the world I chose to run another one of these?! ;) I stuffed my face with a banana and some Belvita bar-type-deliciousness, and we headed out. We got down to our corral a LOT later than last year...mostly because the two gas stations we went to before we headed downtown had nearly broken down pumps and it wasn't even 5:00 A.M. yet.

When we finally arrived at the correct corral, we all decided to pee, again. You know, that "phantom pee" feeling, because you're just so excited and nervous to cross the start line and you know you haven't had anything to drink in over an hour so there's no way you could have to pee and so you sit in a disgusting porta-potty just to reassure yourself that you won't have to stop during the race (run on sentence much?). Then we took a selfie in front of the porta-potty because hey, why not? & yes, we unintentionally matched.

This year they had the corrals start a few minutes in between each other, but we really didn't notice since we stopped for a bathroom break before hand (and we were kinda late, like I said). We saw the start line, I kicked on my awesome playlist, and took off sprinting. Caleb immediately had to remind me that if I tried to run at that pace, I'd surely die soon ;) he's so awesome. He was definitely setting our pace the entire race, and I'm thankful for that. I just get too excited and want to take off, even though that's absurd!

Surprisingly, miles 1 through 5 were kind of a breeze. I honestly hadn't thought it would be this easy, we kept a pace of about 11-12 minutes/mile throughout this and I know that made all the difference (just like Caleb said). The sun was just beginning to rise as we crossed over one of the bridges, and it was SO gorgeous. I love that you cross into Kentucky, and back into Ohio in this race. The Flying Pig is a great course with some amazing views! I love seeing the city in a way I'm not used to! City skyline, cute coffee shops, the Ohio river, etc. I love my city, and it just motivates me to explore it more! I definitely recommend this course to my fellow half-runners!!

image

When we hit mile 7, its pretty much ALL uphill for nearly 3 miles. I'm talking almost a straight incline, and I forgot how hard that was from last years race. Caleb and I did a good job of jogging most of it, but I'll admit, we walked a few minutes. I witnessed something insanely inspirational when I saw a woman probably about my age, strolling her disabled sister UP this monstrous hill...I couldn't even believe it, but I can't thank her enough because it was just the push I needed.

After those crazy hills were over, we had about a mile of straight downhill, which was so GLORIOUS. Then we get to mile 10-11 and guys... I. AM. DEAD. Seriously, I hit a wall. I kept having to slow down, catch my breath, drink a crap ton of water. I truly felt like the end was no where in sight. But - I had Caleb by my side. He encouraged me, listened to me, and most importantly? He pushed me like crazy! We were there for each other and that's just what we needed.

We FINALLY turned the corner after mile 12 and I could see the finish swine (hehe)! I wanted to sprint as fast as I could, but I knew I'd probably fall over from emotions and sheer joy that I could actually see the finish line now. Last year, I cried on my way to the end, and this year? Same story. The amount of spectators and cheering going on from total strangers is overwhelming. Everyone is so amazing and encouraging! We crossed that finish line hand in hand and I felt on top of the world. It's so amazing to me what our bodies will do when we push ourselves! We are capable of so much more than we believe at times.

I'm SO so thankful for this hunk for being by my side through that entire race!

I also haven't taken my eyes off my new finishers medal. I love it!

I do have to say, I missed running side by side with my Erin, but she was there in spirit. During our race we passed a local radio station and yelled her name for a shout out! "WE MISS YOU ERIN!" ;)

I'm extremely proud of us for finishing the race, and how much we pushed ourselves! We ran this one in 2:46, which for me? Is a huge accomplishment. I'm really, really proud of that. Woo! Maybe next year I'll break two and a half hours?! #agirlcandream

In other news, I'm experiencing some serious discomfort. Obviously, pretty much every muscle in my body is constantly on fire, but my right foot is actually in a lot of pain, and I can hardly walk on it. I won't be too concerned unless its like this in another week or so. I've been icing it like crazy at work so I'm hopeful that that will help. Send me some good vibes, friends!

Thanks for reading along!!!

Pushing yo'self.

Last night, Caleb and I ran a few miles in the cold wind, and rain. Yes, RAIN. I looked at him during the run at one point like "we're not turning around yet?!" He said "that's what jackets are for!" and we pushed on. Once we were done, I realized it was a pretty quick couple miles and I was very excited. It made me realize I'm easily running over 2 miles with no problem. Even with the hills in our subdivision... I don't have to stop anymore!

I'm in week 8 of my half training and its gone pretty well. Although I missed my long run last Sunday, I'm doing quite well. This morning I even woke up before work to get my 4.5 miles in. Who am I turning into?! With every step I take, burning legs and all, I literally have to tell myself "Kayla, this is making you STRONGER...don't you dare give up"...and I've somehow been finding a way to go that extra 100 yards, that extra mile... and its making all the difference. I saw a neat quote on Pinterest and loved it; "Your legs are not giving out, your head is giving up. Now keep going!".

I've also been stalking stores for a cute running tank, I think its a known fact that you run harder in cute gear...so I should probably just go ahead and buy this, yeah?

My run last night also made me think about my list of fitness goals for this month, and while I won't meet all of them (sadly), I've made a LOT of progress, and I think that's something to be proud of. I don't always love running, but I sure do love the feeling of accomplishment it gives me. I'm finally understanding that there is no such thing as a 'bad run'. There's running, and then there's sitting on the couch...and I'm choosing to be active! It's not always easy, heck, most days I'd prefer to sit on the couch (with ice cream in hand) , but once that workout is done? I never ever regret it.

Next time I try and come up with an excuse not to workout -- I need to remind myself that its always worth it! I WILL crush this half marathon!!

A change in perspective.

Sunday I was supposed to run my longest run yet of the training plan - 6 whole miles. I had just run 4 a few days prior so I honestly wasn't too nervous. Well, things came up and the 6 miles didn't happen, so my plan was so lace up immediately after work yesterday so I could enjoy the nearly 70 degree weather (hallelujah!). I got home from work, and did just that. Shorts and a tee, it was glorious! I get about 2 miles into my run and I was already insanely exhausted, what in the world was happening?! Then all of a sudden I had a severe sharp pain coming from the inside of my right shin, I had to stop. I was almost in tears...1) due to the actual pain I was feeling, and 2) I was so disappointed in myself.

I get home, Caleb begins to encourage me..."we're gonna KILL this half marathon, don't you worry", etc, etc, etc...he's a gem, seriously. I keep moping around, drowning in my own self pity...and won't shut up about these unfinished 4 miles. I decided some me-time, and a bath full of Epsom salt would do the trick...and boy, did it! I was able to walk around an hour later no problem... but even though I felt better, I was still really annoyed with myself.

{back story} Lately, Caleb and I have been opening the windows when we're home from work because the weather has been so fantastic, and the sun stays out much later than usual. For whatever reason, I got up from the couch, and  happened to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets I'd ever seen from our back porch. We live in a complex that has a gorgeous lake, and I never take advantage of it.

It was in that moment that I realized...life is about so much more than a silly run. I have no right to be THIS upset over an unfinished workout. I tried my hardest, and that's all I could do. My leg pain is so insignificant compared to other things in life, and I need to remember that more often. I'm thankful for what I DO have. Sure, its okay to be sad about my run, but not for too long.

I've got a husband who cheers me on, even when I fail...

I've got two jobs that I rock at...

I've got friends all over the world who would do anything for me...

I can make a mean grilled cheese...

but most importantly? I'm a good person, and that should be enough.

Time to tackle those unfinished 4 miles tonight. I CAN do this!

#progress

This weekend was full of so many amazing things, but one thing stood out to me the most. Yesterday, my training plan told me I had to run 5 miles. If i'm being honest, that was about the LAST thing I wanted to do, but Caleb pretty much made me get up and go to the gym with him.

I'm SO glad I did because I freaking RAN those 5 miles, like nobody's business. Sure, it was tough...but I was in my own world with my new running playlist and I kept telling myself there is NO reason I couldn't run one more mile. I got a good laugh thinking of a pin I saw a few days prior...

My goal is usually to run 10 minute miles, and while I know its not the fastest ever, its also not the slowest. I constantly have to remind myself that its not a competition with anyone. There is no sense in getting caught up in that silly she can run faster AND farther than me mentality. Cause you know what? I finished, & that is what matters.

I now have 8 full weeks until my half, and while I'm still pretty nervous...I'm crazy excited. If I could push myself to run 5 miles (which, before yesterday, I hadn't done since last May), I know I can hit more milestones as these weeks pass by. Kinda figured one week in would be a good chance to take a look at how I'm doing on my goals;

Run 16 times -- so far, I've run 4 times since the 1st of March, so I'd say I'm on track!

Run 3 miles in 30 minutes -- Not yet, but getting CLOSE!

Lift more weights -- haven't touched them this week. Good reminder to get back on it.

Stretch a lot -- I've spent at least 15 minutes after each run, and its helping a TON!

In addition to those goals, I've made sure to drink a TON of water each day. I've found that I drink a lot more when I have a straw. How is everyone else doing on their March goals (fitness or non-fitness related)??!

4 weeks fit challenge {my goals!}

My heart is quite happy today. Erin & Kristin have returned with their second annual link up called #4weeksfit and it really couldn't have come at a better time. The past two weeks weren't very easy, and totally screwed with my training plan. I've got just about 9 weeks left until my second half marathon and I need to kick some serious butt to prepare!! What's funny is when this linkup went live for the first time last year, I was only a week or two away from my first half marathon. We were so excited!!

Caleb and I // Erin and I

Okay where was I? Oh yeah, I've been super lazy. I'm just going to be 100% transparent here, cause its my blog, and I do what I want! ;) Since the holidays, I have gained 13 pounds. THIRTEEN!!!!! Can we talk about how sad that is? I've completely let the random free donuts in the office break room rule my life, and also neglected my duties at the gym most days.  While I know that I'm not "overweight", by any means... I'm highly uncomfortable in my own skin. I've never truly experienced what its like to hardly fit into the same work pants I've worn for nearly 3 years...until recently, and let me tell ya, its not pretty.

So, I'm here to declare my fitness- related goals for the month of March!

Run 16 times
This would average out to about 4x/week. I'm going to give myself bonus points if I can swing waking up before work to get my runs in...but I'm not going to count on it, cause most days? I love my sleep a little too much. Regardless, 16 miles is compatible with my training, so I think its a good number to stick with.

To run 3 miles under 30 minutes
I haven't done this in a very long time, and I know it would just make me THRILLED! I want to train my body that it CAN do whatever I push it to do. So, I'm hoping one day soon that I can hop on that treadmill (unless Spring decides to show up early and I can hit the real pavement!?) and knock out 3 miles in under 30 minutes! I think I'm getting there because yesterday I did 2.8 miles in 28 minutes! I seem to be on track.

Lift more weights
I haven't been in the weight section of the gym in a while. I miss it so much. I always felt like lifting helped my runs, as I was building lots of extra muscle. I can't wait to get back at it! Especially with my stud of a personal trainer (aka...my husband)

Stretch, a LOT
Last year I got a lot of pain in my "QL" area... (above the rump). It wasn't fun, and I honestly think its because I didn't properly stretch/ice my body throughout my training. I've been doing some intense yoga sessions via youtube here and there and have been loving them. In a love/hate type way!

Are you linking up? I can't wait to read everyone's challenges!!!!

After 4 weeks of no exercise...

Goodness. Going to the gym Tuesday night was honestly not what I wanted to do right after work. Work was a bit hectic, a consultation got cancelled due to unavailability, and I was just plain worn out. Then to top it off, I realized I left my headphones at home (since they weren't in my gym bag)...I made a choice though, and I was going to suck it up and make myself exercise...and I may or may not have stopped by the local TJ Maxx to buy a cheap pair of headphones to get me through...yes, it was necessary.

My goal was really only a mile or two of running, but I surprised myself by running just over 3 miles with little walking. You see, once I'm at the gym, already running, I'm good...its just getting there that's the hard part. But on that treadmill, I was reminded of a few things...

Pushing myself "just one more minute" is so rewarding. When the timer hit 29 minutes and I knew I only had 1 minute of my run left, I upped it by a minute, then another minute, then another minute. May not work for everyone, but it was like a fun challenge against myself. It totally worked and I was able to go further than usual. Ran for about 35 minutes total!

Running is SO therapeutic. I mean, after a ridiculously long day with a few problems, its nice to run your heart out to a crazy workout jam and feel pumped up. I truly feel so awesome once I'm finished with a hard workout...like I could do anything!

I was also reminded of how LONG it had been since I've consistently run... so to say I'm pretty sore today is an understatement, but it was totally worth it. I'm excited to be back in the game. It's about time!!! ;)

Today at work we're doing a service project for our community and I'm really excited about it. Not only are we helping a ton of people out, but we get to wear jeans, AND they asked me to take pictures. Woohoo! Combining both my professions? I could get used to this! Happy Thursday!!

When exercise gets put on the back burner.

Man, its been easy to be lazy lately. I've kind of had this whole "you work hard Kayla, you deserve to relax tonight" mentality.... but who am I kidding? The love handles have started talking, and right now they are telling my relaxed personality to shut up, lace up, and hit the pavement...oh, and to stop eating so many moon pies.

September was an insane month, and we finally got a free weekend last weekend. So you bet we took advantage of it. But I kind of forgot how much I LOVE working out. Caleb and I were on a great gym schedule for about 5 weeks before I got sick, and then he hurt his toe...so now that we're both better? It's time to GET GOIN!!

I know that TOMORROW starts the gorgeous month of October, but since Tracy's link up is today? I'm listing my workout goal right now!

Running
I typically do some kind of mileage goal, but I think instead I'm going to stick with my old goal of hitting the pavement 4 times a week. I think this is doable. If I HAD to put a number on it, I'd say I'd like to hit somewhere between 30-40 miles total.

Time
When I run outside alone (without Caleb), I have a hard time pacing myself. I tend to do about 10 minute miles. When I'm on a treadmill? I set it for a little over an 11 minute mile. However, I really want to work on getting a little faster and get a 9:30 minute mile.

Weights
I'm really excited to get back to weights again. I was making some serious improvements and finally seeing a new muscle in my arm...and I really hope I can get back in the groove. Being able to do one more set of something makes my heart SO happy.

What are YOUR workout goals for next month??

& productive, it was!

Friday was one of those nights where once I was home from work, I FLOPPED. Did nothing! It was amazing. Saturday we woke up, and decided to workout at our gym. It was the first time I was back in the weight section of the gym, in QUITE sometime (we're talking like a couple months). It seems that since early summer I've had a hard time getting back into the swing of things, and finally, I spent a good hour with Caleb on Saturday working on my shoulders/arms. To say I can hardly lift my arms today is an understatement. I'm hurting! But I kind of love it.

After the gym, we went home, cleaned up, and finally cleaned out our second bedroom. We threw away two or three boxes, gave Goodwill FIVE, and relabeled all the stuff we kept, and we have so much room in our spare closet now! Makes me a happy gal. Is it bad that the majority of our boxes are 'keepsakes' from our relationship, and Christmas decor? #sorrynotsorry

We can finally (almost) have someone sleep over in our guest bedroom now! It's clean!! After all of that, we got ready for a gorgeous Indian wedding reception that we were lucky enough to shoot! It was really neat, and I'll probably be sharing some images from it later this week.

Once we were home, we watched Psych reruns and ate free Chickfila (yay coupons)! Sunday was just as productive, with church, grocery shopping, and another long, AWESOME workout! These weekends with little to no plans will be far and few between this Fall, so I'm definitely taking advantage of them while I can.

Hope you guys had a great weekend! Do anything fun?

We're turning a new leaf!

Today, I'm really excited.

Last night, Caleb and I made the decision to fully commit ourselves to a better lifestyle overall, in every aspect. It was just a productive evening, and finally an evening at home just to ourselves (almost never happens with our crazy schedules!). We cleaned the whole apartment, did a TON of groceries for an insanely low price, and even made our new budget.

Obligatory photo for blog post ;)

Caleb and I have taken Dave Ramsey's financial peace course 3 times.... THREE TIMES! You'd think it would be drilled in our head by now. However, our whole first year (and 2 months) of our marriage we weren't really living by the principals we knew we should be. We paid the minimum on our debt, or maybe a few bucks over, but not trying hard to get rid of it. We used the cash (envelope) system on and off again, and just were so-so with our savings. Since starting our new budget last night, Caleb and I are back to using cash, hanging up our debit cards on the fridge so we aren't tempted and paying off our nasty debt as fast as possible!! More on that to come.

Exercise...ohhhh exercise. We've been slacking like crazy at the gym (especially me). Correction, to slack at the gym, one must actually BE at the gym...and I hadn't been in weeks. After getting over 8 hours of sleep last night (which never happens), I woke up at 5:45 this morning, and got in 2.5 quick miles. It felt amazing, and I wondered why it took me so long to get back?! We're excited to do something active almost every day. Even if its just a walk after dinner together, its something!

We also agreed we need to eat better. After spoiling our tummy's on vacation with yummy crab legs, lasagna, fruit loops and ice cream bars, we decided it's time to home cook more often. We're committed to doing the best we can to make home cooked meals in our own house. Obviously there will be the occasional treat and pizza night in, cause you need those to stay sane, in my opinion ;)

This is definitely the start of a "new us". After we finished our budget, we even high fived afterward! ;) I can't tell you guys how excited I am. Sure, we'd been doing all of these things before...but I don't think being just alright in these things is okay for us, I want to thrive. We want to thrive! I'm so excited to see where this all takes us. Stay tuned!

R-U-N.

I'm back!!! Caleb and I had an incredible vacation last week...and if you couldn't tell, we really needed it. Life was getting a little crazy, and he and I needed some time away like that. I immediately dove back into photography edits once we returned home, so I don't have any sort of "vacation recap" yet, but that's okay. Baby steps :)

One thing I'm SO happy about, though? I made time to run on vacation. Okay, it was only ONCE. But I got to finally use my new running watch (other than on the treadmill) and omg, I'm obsessed. It had been a good 3 weeks since I'd hit the pavement and thankfully I picked right up where I left off. I could only muster up about 2 miles, because the heat in South Carolina was KILLER that evening.

My only "July" goal for the remainder of this month?

RUN. That's it. I miss it so much. Honestly? June felt like I couldn't really keep my head above water, so needless to say I hardly made time for working out. I'm excited to get back in the gym, and run my little heart out. Not only run...but get back to the weight room.

I'm working on a new running playlist, and trying to incorporate music that makes me think positively, while still having fun. Caleb and I used to run to a ton of really fast rap with quick drum beats, but we left the gym feeling kinda negative from all the crap we listened to for hours. Enter Christian rapper, Andy Mineo. Seriously, dude's talented, and the lyrics to all of his songs are 100x better than the crap Lil Wayne raps about.

One step to a happier Kayla :) 

#4weeksfit results.

Happpyy Friday! So at the beginning of May, a ton of us vowed to try a "4 weeks fit" challenge. We made goals, knew we needed to work hard, and (hopefully!) tried our best to make them happen. I'm here to report that unfortunately no, not EVERY goal of mine was accomplished, but with my busy schedule, I sure did try. Lets go ahead and get the "bad news" over with first; what exactly didn't I accomplish?

Run 50 miles this month.

Sadly, this didn't happen. No excuses, I just didn't make the proper time for this like I should've. BUT, you know what I did do? Ran around 35... which is still a huge accomplishment in my book, so no...I don't count this goal as a failure.

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BUT, what DID I accomplish!?

Finish a half marathon.

Heck yes I did!! I traveled all 13.1 miles by foot. No, I didn't run the whole thing, and I sure as heck wasn't fast...but I finished, and that was my only goal for that race. My best friends and I finished HAND IN HAND, how many people can say that?! I'm so blessed to have that vivid, amazing, emotional memory.

Wake up before work 2x/week to exercise.

YES! I am happy to say I accomplished this. Although one or two times it wasn't a SUPER SWEATY workout, it was yoga or deep stretching! But OUCH, that stuff is not easy. I'm excited about getting back into the groove of waking up before the sun to get my day started off right. I have way more energy when I make time for it.

I've not done my absolute best this month...but I sure as heck tried. Here's to improvement, progress, and learning to love my flaws anyway. Bring it on, June (aka busiest month of my life...but no excuses!). How was your month!?

Runners Tell All: Race picture!

Today's runners tell all link up was to share a race photo. When I read that about two months ago I laughed because I'd had like ONE race photo from my 5K a few years back (and up until then it was the only race I'd ever run), and lets be honest, it wasn't pretty. As I can't justify the nearly $30 price tag for race photos, I screen shot a few.... whoops!

This was a really good spot in the race for all of us, in the midst of running over 6 miles straight, we spotted a camera man! Woohoo! Still having a lot of fun at this point.

Then we hit a wall...a very hard, hilly, wall. I'd rather not show you the pathetic pictures of me holding my butt, hips, and knees. They were so achy!

But the finish line was finally near. I will forever curse the marathon photographers for cutting my adorable husband out of this shot...but still, its awesome. Pure joy!

I cannot explain how happy I was! I FINISHED!

But can I be honest? I have never been more proud of myself than I was in that moment. I freaking traveled 13.1 miles ON FOOT. That blows my MIND to think about!!!

I felt so many emotions and so felt so many things during that race.
Motivation...
Exhaustion...
Fear...
Excitement...
Disappointment...
Hope...
Pain...
but more than anything, happiness. I was happy. I did it. Something I had wanted to accomplish for years...and I made it happen, all by my bad self! ;)

Hopefully next time I do a race photo-post, it'll be a little more flattering, but still...I'm proud!
I love running!

I run because...

Training for this half marathon definitely did NOT go as planned. I signed up last September, got to it right away, then two months ago just kind of got lazy about it. Then vacation happened, we had a death in the family, and life just kept happening. But you know what? That's alright...I'm excited as ever about my first half, even if I have to walk a little of it. Last night, Caleb and I took a spontaneous date downtown and he kept saying "we'll be running on that street on Sunday!!" and something just got me really excited. I'm just happy that I have the privilege of running. So, why do I choose to run?

...because I can

...because I love the feeling of accomplishment when I'm done

...because I like a challenge

...because I like to prove myself wrong. Never did I ever imagine I'd sign myself up for a half marathon, but I did...and I'm all sorts of excited/terrified/pumped about it!

...because the results make me happy

...because having a good playlist makes me feel like I can take on the world

...because I feel happier and much more energetic throughout the week

...because I've always wanted to be able to say "I'm a runner"

...because its something Caleb and I can do together, he challenges me.

...because running shoes are cute, the more colorful the shoe, the better I run...right??

...because the running community is just plain awesome!

...because it challenges me to get outside and hit real pavement

...because it's a blessing to run, I have legs, and I wanna use 'em!

...& because I like it. Simple as that.

#4weeksfit - I WILL DO THIS!

I am beyond excited about this link up that my SIL and Kristin are doing...called 4 weeks fit. When Erin told me about this link-up a couple weeks ago, I was so nervous...what the heck would my goals be?! What if I don't accomplish them!? Then I remembered how awesome and supportive this blog community is...and I WILL meet my goals!

I thought going through the HUNDREDS of fitness related pictures I've taken since we joined our gym last fall would be fun to look back on. I have to say, that is what absolutely changed my life. I used to be so active in high school, then not so much in college, then went back at it a little before our wedding...but joining that gym really made this time feel like it was a LIFESTYLE change. Which is exactly what I want it to be.

Run 50+ miles total this month.

Even typing that out terrifies me... I mean, the most I've ever run in a month was 40 miles total (and that was LAST April), and it nearly killed me. But then miss Anna told me she just had her first 100 mile month, which made me think she's an actual psychopath, but also motivated the crap out of me!!

Wake up before work 2x/week to exercise.

I used to do this a lot during the Winter, but have only done it once recently. It makes me so happy knowing I have my work out done with before my day really starts, and that means I get more time w/ my man at home after work...which makes us both happy!

Finish a half marathon.

Erin and I signed up for our first half marathon back in September, so we had plenty of time to train. Perhaps, too much time? We both really slacked off in the second half of our training and are probably not going to be able to run the whole thing, but you know what? That's alright. She's one of my best friends, and I plan to have a blast with her and our husbands and cross that finish line together. Life is all about having fun, and who better to spend your first half with than the people you love most?!

I'm so excited to try these goals out, and report back on May 30th how great I know we all did!!!! Who's with us!?

Friends. Running. Games. Fridays.

Friday's are a time to focus on how awesome your week was...how awesome your weekend is going to be...and how you can't wait for your next work week to be over already.

I don't have much to say today...and I know I recently wrote a post about "things I like about myself", but I just wanted to take a second to say I'm proud of myself. I never, ever, ever, thought I'd sign up for a half marathon. I never thought I'd be able to even run 5 miles straight...but you know what? I did!!

Becky was here last weekend and she was right there with me when I did it! How cool!? A blogger, who I'd NEVER met...turned into a real life friend, and encouraged me through a huge running milestone! Running 5 miles was always something I'd wanted to do. When we finished, I felt AMAZING. Lately I've been talking to other friends/bloggers who said that finishing their first half marathon was the BEST, and most rewarding feeling ever. I'm like beside myself with excitement just anticipating that moment crossing the finish line with one of my very best friends!!

Last year after my man finished his first half marathon. He's a champ!

Lately I've been challenging myself while I run... "just get to the stop sign....okay, just get back to my car...okay one more mile...then you're done!" and somehow, this little game I play in my mind...it works.

The topic of todays link up was about your favorite running gear! I have to say, I am LOVING these Dri-fit capri's my husband bought for me...and from where else? Marshalls! I'm all for spending a pretty penny on something worth it, but wow...these pants are incredible, and probably for only $10.

I recently bought some new Nike's at an outlet and I am OBSESSED!! Although I've heard some amazing things about Brooks, I will stick with my Nike's for now!

However, I AM in the market for some new socks...I think mine are giving me blisters...or it could just be that my shoes are still breaking in. Who knows. Any tips from you expert runners?

Linking up over here today!

So, weekend? Try not to tempt me with your terrible foods...help me to get up each morning and run at least a few miles, because no one is stopping me, but me. I'm also in a very happy mood because tomorrow I get my hair done...and Erin and I have some fun stuff planned! Can't wait! Hope you all have a great one. TGIF!

What are you doing this weekend?

My ultimate running playlist.

Happy Thursday, folks! I just got back from the gym this morning where I had a hot date with a certain treadmill. Although...I'm not entirely convinced I'm actually awake yet as it was before 6AM when I got there. Good thing about the gym? The machines don't judge how awful you look before the sun rises.

As I was running, I thought to myself-- I should share my playlist, cause its pretty awesome if I do say so myself...and I know that I love when my fellow runners write posts like this, so I thought I should share some of my favorites!

First, it should come as no surprise to you that I love music. Literally, all types. I could go from Eminem to Christian, to Carrie Underwood, then Mumford and Sons. Basically, I'm all over the place.

When it comes to making a running playlist...I don't mess around.

I cant have a song on my playlist unless its fast, intense, and motivating. I recently made a playlist I'm so proud of, and the weird thing is...it actually DOES keep me running. Running on a treadmill for miles truly is a mental game...I hate when I first start out, because I know I have so far ahead of me...but as I listen to these songs, I don't even think about how far I still have to go, I just GO.

I know a lot of you are fellow runners as well (I think I'm almost an official runner, guys!), so I thought I'd share this list with you!

Yaow- Baauer

Burn - Ellie Goulding

Wanted - Dara McLean

Black Betty - Ram Jam
Runaway - Bruno Mars

Walking On Air - Katy Perry
Lose My Breath

People Like Us - Kelly Clarkson

Pusher Love Girl - Justin Timberlake

Talk Dirty - Jason Derulo feat 2 Chainz

Breathe In Breathe Out - 116 Clique feat Lecrae

The Saints - Andy Mineo, Viktory and Canton Jones

Aint Nothin Wrong with That - Robert Rudolph & The Family Band

Some of those songs are by Christian artists. At first I thought it wouldn't be able to run to songs like that, as some Christian music is known to be a little more slow, and acoustic...BOY was I wrong. These guys are gettin itttt, and I just love running to it. I hope this list helps you, and keeps you motivated!

My task to you - when you choose to work out, or even just to dance, what's your GO-TO song?? 

Happy running!

A little time off will motivate you.

At least it did for me. If you recall, I mentioned I took a fall two weeks ago and hurt my ankle, two days later it was a bruised, swollen mess. So, I decided to take the week off from running...and then last week? I was just plain lazy. I only hit the gym twice and was missing it badly. Am I the only one who loves the feeling of being sore? I seriously love it, because it lets me know my muscles are being worked and my body is CHANGING.

The other night a friend and I were talking about how we just aren't as confident in ourselves as we used to be...and you know what? It's a pretty crummy feeling. I hate that after I take a picture I worry if the angle made my already round face look rounder or not. I want to be fit, and KNOW that I'm treating my body well. I hadn't been working out, and I certainly was still watching what I ate, but not as closely as usual.

So on Saturday? Caleb and I decided to hit up the store...we came  home with a five, yes, FIVE pound bag of chocolate flavored protein powder, a pre-workout mix, and a cute new blender bottle for my shakes (she's pink!). 

It got me so excited again. I love the feeling of being INTENTIONAL with my workouts. I'll admit, I don't always LOVE going to the gym...but I'll tell you what I do love. The feeling I get when I'm done with my workout. Yes, it usually always sucks. Yes, I always sweat like a pig...and yes, I'm always freaking tired afterwards...but do I ever regret it? NEVER.

I'm more ready than ever to begin vigorously training for this half marathon, and get so excited thinking about running it with my people I love the most!

What keeps you motivated?