Life is a Marathon...

Josh Byers Memorial Day 5K

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Wed, 30 May 2012 22:43:00 +0000

On Memorial Day, I worked the Josh Byers Memorial Day 5K for Not Alone (where I work). I had been helping coordinate this event since I started working there in March, so it was exciting for race day to finally arrive.

This is the first time we've had a 5K, and we were thrilled to have 270 runners come out!

It was a warm morning, but everyone seemed happy to be there. We honored the fallen soldiers including Captain Josh Byers and had a great time seeing everyone run or walk and enjoy the race festivities.

My parents, sister and cousin came out for the event. Here is me and Meredith before she ran the race.

One of the coolest things we coordinated for the event was fire trucks to hang a giant flag. It looked so cool and was a nice touch considering it was Memorial Day.

We're already planning how to make it bigger and better next year, but I couldn't be happier about how this first year went!

Insanity

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Tue, 22 May 2012 22:45:00 +0000

I did an Insanity workout today with my sister. (I think it was Cardio and Resistance, or something like that.)

I really wasn't sure what to expect, but after 40 minutes my muscles were shaking and I was dripping sweat.

It was hard, but it wasn't SO hard that I couldn't at least attempt it.

The biggest thing was that I had done some HARD rock climbing and bouldering last night (it was my last day of membership so I had to make it count!), so my little arms were still pretty sore. I could NOT handle any push ups today.

I'm thinking about trying to find someone and borrowing it from them... and committing to the 60 day program and seeing what happens.

I'm still not running enough, but I figure I'm doing better about being more active again at least. And if I got really fit from Insanity in the couple of months leading up to when I'd truly start training for the 50K? Well, that wouldn't suck.

It makes sense to do it right now when I still don't need to be doing high mileage. Granted, I need to be doing highER mileage seeing as I have a 10-miler next month and a half in July... but we'll get there.

I also had dinner with a friend of mine from high school who is two days older than me. We got to talking about starting the last year of our 30s and agreed we should do something monumental this year. I need to start brainstorming on this.

Nonetheless, the short list is to run my first 50K (signed up!) and keep trying new things like I have been lately. I think I want to take a class of some sort. I have no idea what... but I want to learn something new. I'm thinking I want it to be something not fitness related - just broaden my horizons or something.

Though trying Insanity for 60 days? That would definitely count as trying something new, too!

Running Strangers Are Not Strangers

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Fri, 18 May 2012 01:52:00 +0000

Since I am going to be running a 50K on trails this summer, I'm starting to think more about training on the trails.

Conveniently, Fleet Feet here in Nashville is doing a summer trail mixer series. For eight Thursdays in a row, you can meet up at the local park that has a few trails and run either the 2.5 mile trail or the 4.5 mile trail. Then, everyone brings a snack and enjoys a runner's potluck after.

Y'all. SO. MUCH. FUN.

I went last week, and it was so fun to be running on trails. I don't think I have run on one much since high school. I went again tonight - this time without a running buddy like I usually do which forces me to actually talk to strangers. But running strangers aren't really strangers at all.

Both weeks I ran the 2.5 mile trail. Before you scoff at the distance, you should know that these trails have some HILLS. Yes. All caps.

Plus, I think baby steps are good seeing as I'm just starting to run again. :)

I ended up running into two other running pals along the course and caught up with them, but I stuck around after the run for over an hour after the run! I was really proud of myself because even though I've gotten better about it over the years, I'm still kind of introverted.

I chatted with my two friends a bit, but then I ended up talking to three others for a while. Next thing I knew, we were exchanging numbers, finding each other on Facebook, planning runs and talking about doing races together. And then I got in the car with two people I just met, sharing the seat with another gal while this guy drove us to where our cars were parked. This sounds sketchy, but other runners will know that it is not.

This is one of the things I love about running. Community. Meeting people you have something in common with and them becoming instant good friends.

That and I totally had a deep fried hot dog with bacon and cheese with a side of french fries and a coke today at lunch when my boss took our crew to The Dog.

No. Lie.

Happy Birthday to Me

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Tue, 15 May 2012 22:00:00 +0000

I turned 29 this weekend.

I have to be honest... I usually LOVE birthdays. I mean, sure my own is fun, but I really love making a big deal out of the birthdays of the people I care about. Nonetheless, I like to celebrate mine as well and all that jazz.

But this year? I wasn't really feeling it.

And I had to realize that's ok.

Maybe it's because I'm not where I thought I'd be at 29. Maybe it's that I have had so many amazing experiences and people come in my life in the past few years and so I feel guilty for still wanting more. Maybe it's that I feel a lot of pressure to make the last year of my 20s count. Or maybe it's just that while the 20s are a lot of fun and full of many good things, they're also really hard in many ways and I almost just wish I could turn 30 and get it over with, haha.

I had a fun birthday outing with some friends. I spent some time with my family. I took myself to the movies. I did some rock climbing.

But it just wasn't the same kind of fun I usually feel. I suppose 25 is really the only other birthday I've had where I felt kind of emotional... And I guess the thing is that I'm feeling some of the same emotions I felt back then. I've traveled and run races and made friends and dated and loved and lost and so many things in the past 4 years, but it's just tough to realize that despite all of that, I still have some of these same feelings deep down that I had on that birthday.

This is life. It's not always rainbows and butterflies and unicorns and glitter. Sometimes it's messy and hard, and even in the midst of SO much good in your life you can still feel a little emotional about it all.

And that's ok.

I'm good. There is much to be thankful for. But it's good to just admit to yourself sometimes that you still want more... and sometimes I think life is about figuring out what that more is and going for it.

I've continued to find myself being a bit more impulsive than usual, but I feel like I have been following my gut... and it feels good. So I think I'm going to keep that up for a bit!

Running for the Troops

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Wed, 09 May 2012 21:27:00 +0000

Almost two months ago, I started a new job at Not Alone here in Nashville.

Not Alone is a 501(c)3 non-profit that raises funds to provide free counseling and other support services to returning war veterans and their families to assist them in dealing with post traumatic stress disorder and other invisible wounds of war. I have come on board as the Community Outreach Manager to help plan events and get people excited about fundraising to help our troops.

I wanted to let my readers know that I'm putting together a team right now to run and fundraise in the Rock N Roll Half Marathon in Chicago on July 22. You don't have to live in Chicago to join the team - anyone who wants to run the half marathon can be on our team regardless of where you're coming from.

The concept is simple... fundraise a minimum of $350 and receive your race registration, a team teach shirt, a team dinner in Chicago the night before the race, and me as your coach to help guide you through training and fundraising. If you go above and beyond with fundraising, there are other awesome prizes that can be earned.

If you have any interest in running this race to raise a little money for our troops, you can read more info on our event website. You can also email me or comment here if you want more information. I have a whole packet with more details than what is listed on the website.

Finally, if you believe in the cause and feel led to give but can't run in the race, feel free to visit my personal fundraising page and make a donation.

I really believe in the need to help our soldiers and their families after they return home from war. The suicide rate in the military is much higher than I would have dreamed, and it is by offering counseling, online support groups, spouse retreats, etc. that we can help lower it. Please consider getting involved in some way if you can. Definitely be in touch with me if you have questions or want more info!

Committed

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Mon, 07 May 2012 00:49:00 +0000

Today, I registered for my first ultra.

On October 6, I will be running the Stump Jump 50K in Chattanooga. I'm pretty excited about taking the plunge and officially committing to do it.

I promptly went outside and ran 3 miles in between thunderstorms. I know I have a ways to go before I can run a 50K, but it was great to just get out there and to know that I now have a new goal.

I have managed to convince another friend to plan on running it as well, and I started working on a few others at a Cinco de Mayo party last night. See? Sometimes peer pressure can be good... getting others to do something active!

I'll eventually sit down and sort out a training plan, but I won't really need to start training until July. In the meantime, I want to gradually get myself building mileage so that I'm ready for the half marathon in Chicago in July, and then I'll transition to 50K training.

This race is on trails, so I'm also going to start training on trails. The local Fleet Feet is doing group trail runs the next 8 Thursdays, so I plan on using those to not only start learning the trails at the park nearby but also to meet new people.

I have decided not to pay to join the ultra training group with the running store. I don't think it'd be worth the money for me when I know I'm capable of setting a training plan and I have a fair number of friends that I can do long runs with in addition to the Nashville Striders marathon training runs that will start in July.

I'm pretty excited. I think this is just the challenge I need right now!

New Challenges

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:55:00 +0000

I don't know why I didn't figure this out sooner.

I think I know what the problem is... why I can't seem to get motivated to run much and haven't since last year.

I'm bored.

I know I probably sound bratty or maybe even less than humble to say this, but after 12 full marathons, 20 half marathons, 3 relays, 1 Goofy Challenge and a slew of other random races... I'm bored. That's not to say that I negate how much of an accomplishment all of these things have been for me or that they would be for someone else. But right now? I just don't have the motivation to just train for another half.

Sure, I could try for a PR. And I have considered trying for one this fall.

But I'm strongly considering my first ultra. It started a couple of weeks ago when a Ragnar teammate asked if I'd be interested in doing an Ultra Ragnar this fall in November... 6 runners in 1 van, each person running 6 legs and no break to be the non-active van.

And then I started wondering about training for that and how I know it'd be different than marathon training. And then I found out that Fleet Feet has a 50K training program for the Stump Junp 50K in October. It'd be perfect. It's a bit pricey to train with them, but I think it could be good for me to have the accountability of a coach and a weekly training run with the group. I could get myself back in shape, run the half marathon I'm doing in July, and then start 50K training. Then run that race in October a month before the ultra relay.

Granted, the ultra relay isn't a done deal. But even so, I think it may be time to try my first 50K.

So I'm sleeping on it... I need to decide something this week, but I'm kind of thinking I'm going to jump in and do it. It would mean that my fall half marathon will probably have to be run for fun and not a PR since it's the week after the 50K, but I almost think that even training for a PR isn't going to be enough for me right now.

Mulling this one over...

Distractions

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:25:00 +0000

There are seasons in life where I think I go into a kind of survival mode... it can be a result of many different kinds of things. "Survival" is kind of a strong word, but it's the best word I can think to describe what that season can feel like.

It's a time where I can't turn my overanalytical brain off. It's a time where I have a bit of anxiety. It's a time where I can't really eat or sleep as well as normal.

So I have to find distractions. Sometimes I need multiple distractions.

Lately? It's definitely been some of the stuff I've written about... Trying new things. Planning trips.

And watching Friday Night Lights. I'm almost done with the fourth of five seasons. I have to say it's one of the best tv shows I've watched in a while.

I have laughed. I have cried. I have remembered stuff I hadn't thought about from when I was in high school 11 years ago. In some ways it's a lot like what I remember high school being like, and in some ways it's a little exaggerated in the way many tv shows can be.

I feel like it's lost a little of its luster in season 4, but I still can't stop watching.

One of my most favorite recent episodes shows the rivalry between two football teams, and it reminds me of the rivalry we had when I was in school. In the show, one team plants like a bazillion toothpicks in the other team's field. But in return, that team comes and completely destroys their field.

When I was in school, someone took a chicken to the other team's field. I thought it was pretty clever... mostly harmless, called them chickens, etc. But then they came and burned their letters into our field.

I guess it just reminds me that there are always kids who know how to conduct a harmless and funny prank, but then there are other kids who only know how to vandalize.

Anyways. The point is... I feel like for right now, I'm in a season where I'm trying to distract myself a bit. And something I've learned as I've gotten older is that it's totally ok to do that.

Being a bit more girly

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:00:00 +0000

I like getting a good pedicure from time to time to help my runner feet look a little nicer, but I very rarely get a manicure.

Part of this is that I'm not really so girly so as to feel like I need my nails looking perfect all the time. The main reason is because I can't stand it the second they chip, and they usually chip within a day or two. So why get them done and painted when I'm going to chip them and take off the polish right within a few days?

On Friday, my sister and I decided to go get manicures. I've been a little blue lately, and it seemed like a nice treat for myself and was a good way to spend some time with the sister. She had tried the shellac option the last time she went, so I decided to give it a shot.

For starters, it was really cool that I left with dry nails and wasn't worried about messing them up as I got in the car to head home.

Second, it looked really good.

But the thing that has made it the most worth the bit extra you pay? I went rock climbing 3 days after getting it done, and they still look just as good today as they did the day I got them.

I have never felt like my nails grow particularly fast, so I'm hoping they'll keep looking good for a solid two weeks as promised. Part of getting them done was also because I'm taking this impromptu trip to Chicago this weekend, and I thought it'd be fun to be able to go up there and go out with Steph and just feel a little more girly as we dress cute and go have some fun around town.

Do I think I'll do this often? Probably not... I still prefer to have natural nails with no polish. But I think if I'm going to get a manicure as a treat from time to time, this is going to be the way to go. With normal polish, I would have already messed them up and taken it all off by now.

I'm going to a wedding in Canada in June and then straight to the beach, so I may splurge and do it again for that!

Trying Something New

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:30:00 +0000

When I was at MTSU, we had a really awesome rec center. I went over there a good bit, but one thing I never did there was try to climb the rock wall.

I think part of it was I felt intimidated to try something new like that... when it was right inside the front door where everyone coming in and out could potentially watch. (I was nervous like that back then.)

I always thought I'd enjoy rock climbing, but I never really knew quite how to get into it.

My college boyfriend had me try once. We went out with two of his roommates somewhere within driving distance of Nashville... and we climbed on REAL rock. As in, one of them did the lead climbing and placed all the little thingies (whatever they're called) to feed the rope through for the rest of us. (Clearly, these boys knew what they were doing.)

Eventually it was my turn to give it a shot. I remember I asked him to send the other two boys away... the last thing I needed was three different experienced climbers (and boys at that) telling me what to do. They went for a hike, and he taught me the basics.

I remember realizing quickly that it's just as much about the work you do with your legs as it is about using your arms. This was good for me since I have a ton of leg strength and virtually no upper body strength. I was able to get a little ways up, and I remember thinking it was fun... but that was the only time I ever did that.

(I realize now I have more of a "why not go all in" attitude than I sometimes admit. You know, what with running a full marathon before every running anything else longer than a 5K... and climbing on real rocks outdoors instead of trying an indoor rock climbing gym.)

So when a friend of mine suggested I give indoor rock climbing a try, I was on board. Plus, I've just got some stuff going on and have been trying to keep myself busy and plan stuff every evening.

On top of that, I'm also going through my little impulsive streak that a mentioned a few days ago.... so I was pretty easily convinced to go on and buy the 30-day pass so that we can come back a few times over the next month. (We agreed that after a few times we might feel like we've tried it and want to move on to something else. We shall see.)

Y'all. I had a BLAST. It was exhilarating in a way that I didn't expect. Not only did I feel like it was a workout and that I was making my body try something new, it was also a rush to have to think strategically and figure out where to place my hands and feet as I scaled on up the wall.

My only disappointment was that there wasn't a bell to ring when I reach the top.

I feel like it was easy to learn. Within the first 20-30 minutes, I knew how to belay and was also able to get myself to the top of some of the easier climbs. We tried some harder ones next, and I felt a huge sense of accomplishment to reach the top. I tried a little bouldering, but WOW is it all about the upper body. And mine is sad. Finally, we were trying some harder climbs, but by then I was worn out and was only getting halfway up before having to drop down.

All in all, it was a really fun 2.5 hours, and I can't wait to go back a few more times. Do I think I'll get into it and need to do it all the time? No. But is it fun and something I'd maybe go do from time to time now after my pass expires? Definitely.

I also realized it'd be a fun date night, should you need a date idea.

I'm not easily bored, but I do think sometimes I need to try something new. I think that's why sometimes with running I care less about PRs and more about trying things like the Goofy or a Ragnar Relay.

Something I'm currently considering? Running an ultra relay. One van. Six runners. No non-active van break.

Yep. Ultra. I said it.

Still brewing, but something about trying this new thing last night has me itching to try new things in running as well.

This post got long. The point is - TRY NEW THINGS!

Happy birthday Tucker!

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Today my little Tucker is 6 years old!

He was such a tiny little thing when I brought him home in June 2006. I was getting ready to move into my own apartment for the first time, and I knew I'd be happier with a pet.

Out of the kittens in his litter, he was the one that climbed in my lap and started purring. He was also very chatty and let me hold him and love on him a lot, so I knew pretty quickly that he was mine.

I had him a few weeks before I finally settled on a name. He was a VERY active kitten, and he would play and play until he would literally just fall over asleep, all tuckered out.

He's remained a very active and happy cat over the past 6 years. He still loves to run around, though I can tell he's slowing down a bit. I've also been able to tell in just the last 6 months or so that he's starting to fill out (his belly is definitely bigger!), and I've noticed a few white hairs here and there. But he definitely still seems to have his youth. He loves to sit and look out the couch at the world outside, staying alert for hours.

He still follows me room to room. He still is found waiting at the door when I come home. He still comes running and meowing anytime I yell out "Tucker, do you want a treat?" He's still a traitor if I have a boy over, preferring to curl up on them (maybe he feels like he's protecting me?)

And he still loves to curl up and sleep on me.

We've been through a lot in 6 years. We are living in his third home. He still goes to stay at my parent's house any time I go over night or if I am going out of town for a trip. He's seen boyfriends come and go. He's gotten to know many of my friends, cat lovers and non-cat loves alike. He's had bladder infections that led to me finding out he has a bladder disease, which means he has prescription cat food to prevent blockages. (So he's totally fine, but it did scare me when it first happened!)

But I'm hoping that he's only a third of a way through his life and that there is much more in store for our journey in this world together. He's been my only roommate for 6 years, and I plan on keeping it that way until I find the man I want to live my life with... for now, he's my little Tucker man, and I can't imagine coming home to an empty apartment. I definitely pray that we have many more years together!

Impulsive

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 20:56:00 +0000

I'm not normally an impulsive person.

I am analytical. I am calculated. I like to plan. It's not that I can't be spontaneous... I totally can. I don't have to have everything planned out, and the older I get the more I understand just how unpredictable life truly can be.

Nonetheless, I think something in me has changed over the past year.

I'm not planning out and executing blog posts the way I once did.

I'm not planning a race calendar and obsessing over training schedules leading up to them.

Sometimes I forget to open the planner I carry around all the time in my purse.

And so on and so forth.

It's not that I've done a 180 or anything. By nature, I am still the same. It's just that it's all a little different. I'm using the calendar on my iPhone so that it can give me alerts to remember when to do things. I'm thinking about some races, but I'm not really setting them in stone. I still turn up on this blog from time to time.

I think it's just that I'm realizing that sometimes you just have to jump.

So I quit my job in January... without having another one lined up or knowing what I would do if I had a hard time finding something else. Fortunately, it all worked out and now I'm in my dream job (or so I think... I suppose time will tell, haha!) And it still brought with it some anxiety, but it felt really good to be impulsive.

The most recent example? Last night in less than an hour I got an idea to book a flight, checked with the friend I'd stay with to see if it was ok, and booked it... it's still a little bit planned because it's not until next weekend, but it's not really like me to go booking flights only 8 days in advance. Nor is it like me to just kind of spend money and not analyze if it's really a good time to do so. (Don't worry, I didn't rack up debt to buy a plane ticket. It's more that I usually have to force myself to spend money, haha.)

I think maybe I'm in a season where being a bit more impulsive is the way I need to be. I think that as much as I like structure and routine, I'm kind of going through a time where I don't want that as much. Honestly, this is even evident in this new job I started... I don't really go sit at a desk in an office from 8-5, something that I think was slowly sucking away part of my soul or something, ha! I work remotely a lot, and I get to be out and about meeting people in the community.

I have no idea where this is all going to lead me, this new sense of impulsiveness. And don't get me wrong... I'm still Melanie. I think way too much and all the way around some things... but there's this other part of me that's just jumping and believing that I'm going to land.

So next Friday I'm heading up to Chicago for a long weekend. Sure, I've been there more times than I can count now and already have plans to go up there in July to lead a team to run in the Chicago Half to raise money for the military (contact me if you're interested!)... but I needed to get away. And my best friend is AWESOME and has already planned a super fun weekend socializing with her friends and hitting the town.

Sometimes I think you just need to check out... so I'm really looking forward to it and am glad I made this random decision.

Unsubscribe

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 01:53:00 +0000

I did something that I wouldn't have fathomed a few years ago...

I allowed by subscription to Runner's World expire.

It's not that I don't enjoy reading it. There are often some pretty interesting feature articles in there, and I like being clued in to new websites that might be usual to me.

I definitely think it's an excellent resource for relatively new runners, but I started to feel like it was the same information and it just wasn't relative to me anymore. Plus, a lot of the content is on their website for free. :)

The thing is that I like the training plans and strategies I use. I like the gear that I use. I never found any of their food information especially applicable to my lifestyle. And if I do want to find something new? Well, there's the internet.

It's a great magazine, and I would recommend it to anyone just learning about running or getting into it, but I just wasn't finding it all that applicable to me any more.

So I let the subscription expired and saved some money. It felt good. And I haven't missed it the past couple of months.

Oh Hi

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 23:37:00 +0000

So yeah... I have been a terrible nonexistent blogger lately. Maybe I'm in a season where blogging isn't as important to me? The funny thing is I still read blogs in my Google Reader every day... I just haven't been posting.

What have I been doing?

Well, right now I am sweating. Apparently in addition to our mild winter this year, we're also jumping straight to summer. It was like 90 degrees today, and this is after weeks of 70-80 degree weather. I'm not complaining, but a little spring would have been nice. Not only that, but my a/c does not appear to be working. It's running and blowing out cool air, but it's not really cooling off... I think maybe the thermostat is broken. I called the apartment office about it, and they claimed they fixed it... but seeing as how it's saying it's still 80 in here? I'm thinking I'm going to be calling again tomorrow. Fortunately we don't have summer humidity yet, so it's not SO bad... but I know I need to get it fixed sooner than later. Rent ain't cheap, and while I am not a complainer, I will definitely be a polite pest about getting it fixed. Whatever they did today didn't do anything.

I also started a new job. It's definitely a big change, and while it's a good one, it is also incredibly draining. I have been gleaning a ton of info about the organization and the events that I am taking on, and hopefully I'll be able to really dive in and get started on some things soon. I'll probably write a post about this new job soon and share a few things... I've been given the awesome opportunity to plan athletic events to raise money to provide counseling to US troops and their families through my new position at Not Alone. It's super exciting to combine my desire to do something to serve others along with my passion for running and athletic events!

Running. Hmm. So I'll admit. I haven't run since the half marathon in New Orleans almost a full month ago, unless you count running through the parking lot to get to my car in the rain. Honestly? It feels good to truly take a break. I realize I've been pretty scaled back on training since my last marathon in November, but I think I've just really needed to take a true break. But I'll be working to get back on track soon... there are no plans to train for a PR or to do a lot of distance anytime in the next few months, but it's nice to let myself get to this point where I actually miss running.

So that's where I've been in addition to my social life, the boy, etc. And watching Friday Night Lights on Netflix. (Seriously, I finished season one in like a week.) And reading The Hunger Games (I may or may not have stayed up til 3am reading it, and I'm pretty sure I'll finish it tonight. And then want to go see the movie.)

I'll try to get back on track with some more regular blogging. I'm hoping some of you are still out there!

Race Report: Mardi Gras Half Marathon

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 01:00:00 +0000

The first weekend in March, I headed with running pal Liz to New Orleans to run in the Mardi Gras Half Marathon.

We stayed with two other gals in the city so it quickly became a fun girls' weekend. On Saturday, once we arrived in town we hit up a drive-thru daiquiri shop. (So fun!) Then we headed to the expo. It was your pretty typical expo... we kind of just breezed in and out. We ended up grabbing some groceries to cook dinner and have a quiet, early night in.

On Sunday, we headed downtown for the race. I was excited to see Erin again for the first time since she moved from Nashville to Baton Rouge, and I also got to meet up with Melissa who was also in from Nashville to run the half. She and I were able to run the first couple of miles together.

So here's the thing... I didn't really train for this race. Like, at all. I had high hopes at one time of being in really good shape, but I just haven't had my running mojo this year. I suppose being able to just go out and run a half means I'm in decent shape, but it certainly wasn't a "race" for me. I took it slow and just enjoyed the scenery. Running down St. Charles and later through the French Market was really pretty.

I finished around 2:30 (like I said, I was running slow and for fun), and then I hung out with Erin and Melissa for a while until it was time to go start watching for Liz and Jess to finish the full.

We spent the afternoon in a beer garden enjoying some food and drinks before heading home for another quiet evening. We were all exhausted and sunburned.

On Monday, we had breakfast and then spent the day on Bourbon Street.

It didn't take me long to find this awesome feather boa that I HAD to have. I wore it around for the entire day.

We ended up in the Cat's Meow and spent a few hours doing karaoke. I had never really been one for karaoke, but we had a total blast.

We headed back home on Tuesday. It had been a fun weekend, but it's always good to come back home to Nashville.

What's next in terms of a race? I honestly have no idea.

I'm starting a new job next week after two months of being unemployed (two months that have been amazing), so I'm waiting to plan out the rest of my races once I see how my training will fit in with the rest of my life. I'm thinking this fall I may try to reach my goal of sub-1:50 in the half, but we'll see. For right now, I'm not really thinking too much about full marathons. I'm sure I may fit one in sometime this fall, but it'll likely be for fun.

I guess we'll see!

Next trip? I have a few ideas for some weekend trips that may or may not happen, but I just bought a plane ticket to Toronto to go to a friend's wedding in June. It'll be here before I know it!

Mumford and Sons Concert in Nashville 3.8.12

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 01:47:00 +0000

Last week, Mumford and Sons played three nights at the Ryman Auditorium here in Nashville. I had managed to grab two tickets to the last show on Thursday night for the Boy's birthday. We were both pretty ecstatic I got them, especially when we heard how many people were said that they sold out so fast.

It turns out, the band was only playing Nashville and NYC on the US part of their tour. We were definitely pretty lucky.

So on a stormy Thursday evening, we made our way downtown and braved the rain, traffic, and Preds fans to grab some food at Broadway Brewhouse (and watch the start of the Preds game). Then we made our way over to the Ryman in time to see Dawes open.

There is not a bad seat in the Ryman, and I liked our seats in the balcony. We danced. We sang along. And we agreed it was one of the best concerts that we had each ever seen.

They did a song or two unplugged... totally awesome.

We all got pretty excited when the twinkle lights came on for "Little Lion Man."

They did about five new songs throughout the evening and promised a new album will be coming out soon. We also got a really long encore, so we saw them play for a little over 2 hours.

We definitely had a blast! It's always fun for me to find the perfect gift for someone, and it was even more fun that we got to enjoy the evening together.

20th Half Marathon

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 19:11:00 +0000

So unless I'm counting wrong (which is possible since I've never really been a numbers girl (which is off considering I like to run and running is all about numbers like mileage and paces and PRs, etc.) and I'm feeling too lazy to go back and count again to be sure)... I will be running my 20th half marathon in New Orleans on SUNDAY.

I feel like 20 is a good flat number, and it seems fitting that I am traveling to run a fun race in a fun city. A city I have never visited, no less, but that has been on my list to visit.

I had actually signed up for the full back in October, but I realized a while back that it just wasn't a good time for me to train for another full. It's turned out, I haven't really trained well for a half either.

This will not be a PR attempt. In fact, I am not making ANY kind of time goal. I just want to have fun and take pictures and enjoy the scenery of a new city and then enjoy the rest of the trip sightseeing with the girls.

I can't wait. It looks like we'll have good weather, so I'm packing all sorts of spring clothes for both the race and to wear around town.

I'll catch ya on the flip side!

Ski Trip to Snowshoe, WV

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:16:00 +0000

On Friday, I headed out with the boy and some of his friends to make the drive to Snowshoe, WV for a ski trip. I hadn't been on a road trip with friends in a while, and we had a blast making our way along the road laughing, talking, and playing trivia with the other carload.

We arrived and got our skis, and then spent the evening making dinner and hanging out in the hot tub.

We hit the slopes right when they opened Saturday morning. It was the boy's birthday, and we were eager to have a ton of fun to celebrate.

It didn't take me long to get my ski legs back, and I was happy to stick to the green runs with some of the others on the "green team." We skied until about 2 when some of us returned to the cabin for lunch and a little break.

Later that evening, we all headed out for 3 hours of night skiing. I chose this time to rock my awesome one-piece ski suit that the boy insisted we buy at Goodwill.

I took my first fall of the day that night when I went down a green run that I think the bottom was truly a blue. I laughed and made my way the rest of the way down, but I was pleased it was the only time I really fell all day.

We all went home exhausted and crashed hard before getting up on Sunday to do it all again. I ended up skiing from 10am-9pm with a break for lunch and another little drink/snack break later in the day. I had SO much fun.

Some of the boys were doing jumps in the terrain park, so it was fun to watch them and try to take their picture like this one of the boy flying through the air.

Later in the day it started snowing and continued for a few hours into the night. It was SO pretty.

I decided that I was feeling comfortable and wanted to try my first blue run ever. The boy coached me down as I made my way along the run. Some parts were really steep! It was a ton of fun, so I ended up doing it two more times before my legs started to feel worn out.

It's hard to show how steep it was in pictures, but this is the bottom part of the blue I did.

We had SO much fun skiing all day. We hit the cabin after the slopes for pizza and time in the hot tub.

We made our way home on Monday sore and worn out. I think I was out cold by 10pm that night and slept hard until about 8 the next day!

I had such a great trip, and it makes me want to go skiing more often. Of course, we came home to warm weather and will see like 73 degrees tomorrow. So maybe I'm ready for some summer fun. Goodness knows I love wakeboarding on the lake!

Happy Valentine's Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:38:00 +0000

I hope everyone had a very Happy Valentine's Day yesterday!

I have to say that this was the nicest Valentine's Day that I can remember. Sure, I have fond memories of those parties you had in school where everyone exchanged cards and candy. I've had some nice dates with previous boyfriends. Nonetheless, it was a fantastic day that left me smiling as I fell asleep last night.

The boy called to wish me a happy Valentine's Day in the morning. We had been planning to see the Predators take on the Chicago Blackhawks since we got free tickets (lower bowl! corner! 22 rows off the ice!) through the Preds 5K. He left it up to me to decide what to do for dinner before the game.

I suggested Broadway Brewhouse since it was two blocks from the arena and we wouldn't have a ton of time to eat before the game started at 7. I think the boy was pretty pleased with my choice. We ended up invited his roommate and his friend to join us as we grabbed a round of drinks and a few appetizers.

After dinner, we headed down the street to the arena just in time to see the team come out on the ice. It was a great game, and Preds won 3-2! Gnash was even in the Valentine's Day spirit and dressed up as Cupid.

It was definitely a fun way to celebrate the day and spend some time with my Valentine! I printed a picture of us and used some fun paper to mat and frame it for him. He was so super sweet and gave me a gift certificate to a spa. I was so surprised, and I look forward to using it for a nice massage or something!

I hope everyone had as nice of a Valentine's Day as we did!

Week 3 of Get Ripped

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:25:00 +0000

Happy Valentine's Day!

I have to report that there is no week 3 update yet for Jillian Michael's Get Ripped in 30 DVD. Unfortunately, I spent all of last week sick with sinus issues... so I didn't work out at all. No DVD. No running. Nothing.

It's hard for me to do nothing. Even though I didn't feel good, I knew I wasn't so sick that I couldn't do other things. I tried to work on some stuff on the computer like applying for jobs, etc. but most days I felt bad enough that I did just stay on the couch.

Since I took a break, I decided it didn't make sense to dive into week 3 this week... I'm doing week 2 again a few times before going skiing this weekend, and then I'll try to get back on track.

So check back then to hear about week 3. I hear it's a tough one!

Race Reports: Fangtastic 5K

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:00:00 +0000

On Saturday, the boy and I ran the Nashville Predators Fangtastic 5K. It's a little bit more expensive than most 5Ks around here ($40 instead of $20-25), but it's a pretty sweet deal. You walk away with a t-shirt, a ticket to one of three Predators games, and a $25 gift card for this company that does zip lining.

We met up with two of our friends downtown before the race. It has a 10am start, so it was kind of nice to not have to get up too early on a winter morning. Granted, we're having a rather mild winter this year.

It was cloudy and drizzling a bit, but it was perfect weather for running. I wore shorts with a short sleeve top and arm sleeves and was plenty warm. Although the boy made fun of me for wearing a garbage bag over it all until the race started. I had to explain that I wanted to stay dry as long as I could.

We got our timing chips and lined up at the start. It continued to rain lightly as we ran down Broadway, up Demonbreum, over to the Gulch and around, back down Demonbreum and around to the arena. The four of us wanted to run together, and our friends are rather new to running. This was actually their first race, and their training to run a half marathon this spring.

It was fun to just take it easy and talk with them as we ran along. I was also starting to have some sinus issues, so I was glad to not feel like I needed to push the pace.

After the race, we headed over to Jackson's to grab some brunch. It was definitely a fun way to spend a Saturday morning. I went downtown today and picked up our Preds tickets. We got lower bowl seats about 22 rows off the ice to see the Preds play the Chicago Blackhawks on Valentine's Day. It should be a great game, and it'll be a fun way to do something for the holiday!

Since it was raining, I didn't take any pictures of this one.

It was a fun race, and I definitely recommend it if for no other reason than for the inexpensive way to get a hockey ticket. We're also going to look into using the zip lining vouchers, too!

Jillian Michael's Get Ripped in 30 - Week 2 Update

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 23:30:00 +0000

This week, I did Week 2 of the Jillian Michael's Get Ripped in 30 DVD 5 times.

Let me tell you... it got much harder.

When I first did it on Monday, I couldn't fathom doing it again. The moves aren't really THAT much more complex, but it was just enough that my weak little upper body struggled. For example, there are a LOT of moves based on plank. Plank jacks. Plank mountain climbers. Plank squats.

However, I found that I was already able to handle it much better on Tuesday. It seemed to get a little easier throughout the week, but I definitely still found myself sweating and glad it was over when the end arrived.

After doing it for the fifth time today, I can definitely see that my endurance for the moves has increased. I'm still doing the modified versions of all of the plank moves, but I'm actually able to do them for pretty much the entire time now. Progress, I has it.

Nonetheless, I think it would take me a while before I'd be able to do the advanced version of everything in this week's workout. I may attempt it later, but for now I plan to advance to week 3.

I am definitely feeling it after the workouts. I'm not "oh my gosh I can't wash my hair" sore, but I can feel some aches from where I've worked various muscles.

After two weeks, I can feel myself getting stronger. I can tell that I've trimmed up a bit, but I still don't have quite the toned results that I hope to see at the end of the 4 weeks. Nonetheless, I'm pleased.

I've also been making sure to run 3 times a week as well. I haven't been doing crazy long runs lately... usually between 4-8 miles... but some of the runs have been pretty hilly. If nothing else, my legs should be strong and ready to hit the ski slopes two weeks from now!

I have a feeling that the first day of the week 3 workout is going to be tough. Probably tougher than tough. But I really feel like I'm getting an excellent workout each time I do it, so I'm going to keep at it for the next two weeks and see what happens.

As far as the visible results I'm seeing? Well, I feel like my love handles have lost a little of their holiday love. I still want to see more toning through my mid-section, but I know that kind of progress takes time. It's nice to know I'm strengthening my core, even if I can't totally see it yet. That will be good for skiing and running!

Jillian Michael's Get Ripped in 30 - Week 1 Update

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 23:33:00 +0000

With the holidays over and 2012 plans in the works, I knew that I definitely needed to start getting back into shape.

It's not so much that there's a big race coming up. Other than a half or a 5K here and there, I don't have any major race plans soon. And now that I'm temporarily unemployed, I don't intend to sign up for many races right now.

But I don't want to let myself get too out of shape. At a minimum, I want to be able to run a half marathon at any time.

Plus, I'm going skiing in a few weeks. I've only gone twice, and on my first trip 10 years ago I never left the bunny slope. I got confident on green slopes when I went last year, but I'm hoping to work up to blues this time. I figure it'll be easier on me if I'm back in a bit better shape.

So I've started running more regularly again, and it feels great! I am always glad for the breaks I take because I believe they really do help me avoid burnout. I pick up from a break and remember all the reasons why I love to run and the way it makes me feel.

When I realized that going on the ski trip would mean putting on a swimsuit in front of my boyfriend to hang out in the hot tub at the cabin, I knew I needed to also work on toning up a bit. Running definitely keeps me trim, and without it my love handles had made a bit more of an appearance than I cared for... on the recommendation of my sister, I bought Jillian Michael's Get Ripped in 30 DVD at Target (it was like $10).

I had bought her Shred DVD a few years ago, but I never really liked it that much. I wouldn't have bought this one if I hadn't seen how toned my sister's tummy was.. she swore it was from this DVD.

The concept in Get Ripped is similar to that in her Shred workout... 3 minutes of strength, 2 minutes of cardio and 1 minute of abs three times. The main difference is that there are 4 workouts (each about 25 minutes with a warmup and cool down) - one for each week. You do each move for 30 seconds, and they never repeat in the other weeks' workouts.

I've done week 1 (I purposefully started 4 weeks out from the ski trip), and I can tell a tiny difference. When I did the first workout the first day, I thought I was going to die. Now, I'm still super sweaty at the end, but I can manage to do everything in its entirety. (So I'm a little nervous about moving on to week 2.) I don't see a ton of difference in my body yet, but I can definitely feel myself getting stronger.

I'm also getting back to running three days a week, so I'm sure the combination will help me trim up.. even if I'm not in marathon training mode.

Of course, I know diet matters as well. I've been trying to limit my coke intake to one a week (this is what I'd been doing for almost 2 years, but I always cheat a bit during the holidays), and I'm mostly drinking water. I LOVE dessert (another thing I splurge on over the holidays), but I've been limiting the sweets to just little treats here and there (I will never give them up). I'm mostly just trying to make sure I don't overeat, making good choices when I eat, and allowing myself to splurge and eat something I want even if I know it's not super healthy. You only live once, right?

So we'll see how this goes... nothing can stop me from looking ghostly white in my swimsuit, even if I do get as toned as I would like. I'm not about to go to a tanning bed. Everyone will just have to make do. HA.

Time for Something New

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:08:00 +0000

As of Friday afternoon, I am unemployed.

It's a bit scary on one hand... I'm not super excited about not having an income. More than that, I'm not lazy. It's hard to not have a job to go to where I need to use my brain and work hard, etc. Sure, it's a little nice that I didn't have to get up early and that I have spent the morning running errands and then having lunch with the boy. But I'm not going to be content with being unemployed for very long.

On the other hand, it is kind of exciting. I think it was time for a change. I'm really looking forward to being able to focus my time on figuring out what is out there and what I want to do next.

I don't want this to come out the wrong way, but I'm smart... I work really hard... and I do things well. I know that I'll be able to find something new sooner than later, and I'm hopeful it's going to be a job I truly love.

Meanwhile, I am so thankful for my family and friends. Everyone has been so supportive, and I've already got some leads on some potential jobs. (So if you know of anything in Nashville, dear reader, please let me know!)

I've definitely been experiencing a mix of emotions about the matter, but I'm feeling pretty optimistic. One chapter has ended, and I'm looking forward to seeing what the next chapter holds.

Planning for 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 05:13:00 +0000

I've been thinking some over the past few days about what I am planning for 2012. I have also spent a lot of time going through everything in my place... reorganizing things to work better for me and getting rid of a ton of stuff I no longer need or use. It feels good to start the year with my home in order.

As I think about the coming year, I feel like it's full of promise and possibilities. It seems that time goes by so quickly, but going to Disney World about a year ago feels forever ago. I know there's really no way to know what this year holds, but there are a few things I want to plan for this year.

Running - I've decided that I want to run this year for the fun of running. I definitely think it is still a passion, but I don't think I care right now about PRs. That doesn't mean I'd turn any down or that I won't try for one here and there, but I don't think I'll be training hard for any specific time in any specific distance. I may change my mind later in the year, but for the next few months in particular I want to run, be fit, and have fun.

Relationships - I want to do my best to fully engage with all of the people that I care about in my life. I think that I am very relationship-oriented and that I am a pretty good friend, but I know that in 2011 there were some times when I was having a hard time and felt liked I needed my friends more than what I was giving to them. I know that's what friends are for, and I'm thankful for the ways they were there for me on the days when I felt a little dissatisfied with life. BUT. I think 2012 is going to be a good year, and I hope that entails having a ton of fun with them. I want to take road trips, run races, and have game nights. I want to meet for coffee or grab a bite to eat or exchange long emails about life. I really want to connect with everyone that matters to me in a way that is unique to our relationship.

Travel and Adventure - I want to continue to travel and go to new places. I am still brainstorming on what all this will include, but I know for sure that I'm going on a ski trip next month and then to New Orleans for the first time ever in March. I'll also be heading up to Canada in June for one of my best friend's wedding. But I hope to plan a few more trips and find many other adventures this year, and I'm down with some of them being more local or weekend type adventures. I know there's a lot in a close radius to Nashville that I haven't done that could be fun.

I do have some other specific goals and plans for the next six months that I'm choosing not to share publicly right now, but when I achieve them I'll definitely fill you in! (Or if you're really curious, just ask... I'm more willing to share on a one-on-one type basis.)

I think it's going to be a good year. I love how January 1 always brings with it a feeling of a fresh start. I'm very optimistic in general, but I just have a good feeling. 2011 seemed to be a hard year for a lot of people I know, and I really believe 2012 is going to bring us all many blessings!

Happy new year!