tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48683369802231916122024-02-01T21:07:36.935-06:00The Life and Loves of Allison FayHello there! I'm a newly married southerner fresh out of graduate school. I love to run, spend time with family, enjoy life, take pictures of it all, and then blog about it!AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.comBlogger137125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-49110109373941869132013-10-21T15:18:00.000-05:002013-10-21T15:18:36.174-05:00I've got a new blog!<div style="text-align: center;">
Come over and join me there! My new personal blog is </div>
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<a href="http://www.allisonchewning.com/">w</a>ww.delightfullyridiculous.com</div>
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Hope to see you there!</div>
AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-38186333615648990182013-03-07T21:34:00.000-06:002013-10-21T15:17:37.393-05:00I moved... to a new blogsite!<div style="text-align: center;">
Come visit me there! </div>
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Follow my new blog at www.delightfullyridiculous.com</div>
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AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-59438043968189206862012-12-30T09:04:00.000-06:002012-12-30T09:04:04.156-06:00Allison Fay PhotographySo, it's been August since my last post. If you don't know me in real life, you may not know what I've been up to. Luckily, I'm about to tell you! <a href=""><imgsrc ei="ei" https:="https:" ignature.gif="ignature.gif" lh3.googleusercontent.com="lh3.googleusercontent.com" m2rppkra="m2rppkra" s288="s288" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" wpdrwtclgrk="wpdrwtclgrk" x4mdekimi="x4mdekimi"></imgsrc></a><br />
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I decided photography was something I honestly love, so I decided to pour my heart and soul into it. I started learning as much as I possibly could and practicing as much as I could, all while trying to train for the St. Jude half marathon and work 40 hours a week. Needless to say, I was busy.</div>
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I started taking pictures for friends and family in order to practice, then a few other people asked me to take their pictures as well, and it's just kind of grown from there. </div>
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Several people were interested in photographs for their Christmas cards, and here are a few of them...</div>
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Lots of other great things have happened and are happening, and I can't wait to share it all with you! I decided to get started early on my resolutions for the new year, and blogging is one of them. I'm not doing so hot with trying to eliminate soda, so I figure it's a lot easier to blog. </div>
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If you are interested in checking out my photography pages, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photographybyallisonfay" target="_blank">my Facebook page is here</a> and my website (which is a work in progress) can be found <a href="http://allisonfayphotography.com/" target="_blank">here</a>. Give me some love if you have the time!</div>
AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-70237395704834718572012-08-08T10:05:00.000-05:002012-08-08T10:22:43.212-05:00Boycotting Overtime<div style="text-align: center;">
I've decided I'm boycotting overtime shifts. I picked up waaay too many (as in, one per week) for the past 3 months, and I'm over it. </div>
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Sure, I get paid more money, and that is super fun. But in exchange for the money, I have to give up my time. And that means I have less time to spend doing the things that I love.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4868336980223191612"><imgsrc ei="ei" https:="https:" ignature.gif="ignature.gif" lh3.googleusercontent.com="lh3.googleusercontent.com" m2rppkra="m2rppkra" s288="s288" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" wpdrwtclgrk="wpdrwtclgrk" x4mdekimi="x4mdekimi"></imgsrc></a></div>
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For example, spending time with this sweet girl.</div>
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I have spent time with her every day for the past 6 days and I still can't get enough. </div>
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Spending time with her also means spending more time with my sister. We've been planning Anniston's birthday party and our complete Fall wardrobe. It's been great.</div>
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I also got to have a girl's night with my best friends in the whole wide world, who live far far away and I haven't seen in a few months. It was way way too long, I missed having friends. </div>
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Also, I get to run. While enjoying it! </div>
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I was still running while I was so busy, but running is so much more fun when I'm not super stressed. </div>
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The only downside of less overtime is less shopping. Which I'm working on dealing with. I'm trying to develop a "Fall Shopping Plan" and attempting to "only purchase what I really need". <a href="http://handbagsandhairbows.blogspot.com/2012/08/what-im-loving-wednesday-shopping-sprees.html" target="_blank">As my sister and fellow shopaholic stated</a>, spending time together is not good for our wallets. </div>
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But getting to see this sweet face more often is so, so worth it!</div>
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<br /></div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-32876402312348498712012-08-06T22:50:00.000-05:002012-08-06T22:50:46.902-05:00I'm Ready!<div style="text-align: center;">
My training schedule for the St. Jude Half-Marathon officially starts today!</div>
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You guys will be hearing about this for the next 17 weeks (and probably for a few weeks after that), so for now I'll just say that I'm more excited about this race than I have ever been about a race before. </div>
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Everything is in place, and I'm SO READY to get started. </div>
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1.) I'm in such a good place mentally- my confidence has been boosted after finishing the San Francisco half feeling strong and happy. I was really nervous about this race- I really doubted my abilities to do well. For the 2-3 weeks leading up to the race I was busy and stressed, working too much, feeling like I hadn't trained for long enough, and had a few (or several) bad runs. </div>
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Now, that weight has been lifted, things have slowed down (a little bit), and I'm going to enjoy getting back at it!</div>
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2. I've got Adam on my team. I have really enjoyed having him coach me- it's great to have a schedule custom made for me according to my needs, paces and abilities. I love having the extra accountability and encouragement. </div>
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It's also really nice not having to worry if I'm doing the right things to be prepared for a good race- he takes care of all of that for me, leaving me to focus solely on the actual running. </div>
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3. I've got motivation. What is better to start a new training cycle than watching the Olympics. It's been said before, but I'll say it again: I cannot take my eyes off the TV! Galen Rupp! Lolo Jones! Allyson Felix! Beach Volleyball! So inspiring. </div>
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In case you haven't seen this picture 10 times already today, here you go.</div>
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Literally makes me cry. I'm so proud of them for showing that you can be hard-core and competitive while still being encouraging and supportive of others. This reminds me of me and my sister- she would totally pick me up off the ground after a race if I needed her to. </div>
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Olympics!!!!!</div>
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4. I've got the gear, including neon stuff.</div>
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I decided not to splurge on the $150 neon green Nike running shoes many of the athletes seem to be wearing, but I did buy two pair of my faithful Nike Frees for $120 total. I'm so sensible when it comes to shopping. (Well, at least in this case I was.)</div>
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Running Shoes on Sale + Tax-free weekend + Free Shipping = Stockpiling!</div>
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And because I got my pretty neon pink ones dirty after the San Fran race because the finishing area was in grass (instead of the normal pavement) and was sort of muddy. Yeah, I'm still mad about that. </div>
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Anyways... let's get to the neon stuff. </div>
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I have this cool jacket:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFpadb_c9E7TKMKEugjY9NlgKOP4YjMNVxxLvseDN0w3Jav_o2i9uPPKFhYwi3FfD8MauPFzPJMt8vfRYFJBZ6ly69UlRmIXS3Uke47PJlpL98VtSqNCyfWDgLSdg2yhJc_jeyun4qK8fW/s1600/20120729-SanFran2012-93-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFpadb_c9E7TKMKEugjY9NlgKOP4YjMNVxxLvseDN0w3Jav_o2i9uPPKFhYwi3FfD8MauPFzPJMt8vfRYFJBZ6ly69UlRmIXS3Uke47PJlpL98VtSqNCyfWDgLSdg2yhJc_jeyun4qK8fW/s640/20120729-SanFran2012-93-Edit.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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Which was also seen on some very cool and successful people:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdcdbidUyBJm3mDrFW-3gyaGy4A-1oA1-xgacJFTwr2TvqKn7dfotmUS-REU6MbFiAtE03LT3ydF9dqe3NQ2f1rKLkYS5Ypyp0b6h_Mcl35QG3cb__4IkxxWG2-E9x1CZjnMu3l9Z1abQp/s1600/kyla-ross-and-nike-cyclone-vapor-womens-running-jacket-gallery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdcdbidUyBJm3mDrFW-3gyaGy4A-1oA1-xgacJFTwr2TvqKn7dfotmUS-REU6MbFiAtE03LT3ydF9dqe3NQ2f1rKLkYS5Ypyp0b6h_Mcl35QG3cb__4IkxxWG2-E9x1CZjnMu3l9Z1abQp/s640/kyla-ross-and-nike-cyclone-vapor-womens-running-jacket-gallery.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This beauty was also pretty expensive (IMO) but I was able to find it at the Nike Outlet here in Memphis for about 60% off the regular price. </div>
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See? Sensible shopper, right here. </div>
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(We are just not going to mention my many recent Lululemon shopping sprees.)</div>
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St. Jude Half-Marathon training week 1 begins, 17 weeks until race day!</div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-29005733480192765612012-08-03T20:03:00.001-05:002012-08-03T20:04:22.171-05:00San Francisco in Pictures<div style="text-align: center;">
We went to San Francisco. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8MkqMErikDOI6J7zSP8OwyzB_ViJ_cMYqnQ0z6EYmxfvFpCNbwomggGL3yiUHXUSYEQGXfUjJ30AHDkNDepsFteNT5zNx0MsYYrnNREUsyZqQXc9OZFYZUWPCjCDF6HqTPUaaLZ719gd/s1600/20120730-SanFran2012-122-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8MkqMErikDOI6J7zSP8OwyzB_ViJ_cMYqnQ0z6EYmxfvFpCNbwomggGL3yiUHXUSYEQGXfUjJ30AHDkNDepsFteNT5zNx0MsYYrnNREUsyZqQXc9OZFYZUWPCjCDF6HqTPUaaLZ719gd/s1600/20120730-SanFran2012-122-Edit.jpg" /></a></div>
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We ran across this bridge.</div>
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We visited Pier 39....</div>
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.... and Fisherman's Wharf... where there was sourdough bread. </div>
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We went to see the redwoods in Muir Woods. They were beautiful.</div>
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and very tall.</div>
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We went to Alcatraz</div>
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and a Giants game</div>
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saw a few other things</div>
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We ate lots and lots of really good vegetarian food. </div>
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But it's kind of ok, because did I mention we ran a half marathon? Oh yeah, and we walked everywhere. Up humongous hills like this.</div>
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San Francisco is probably our favorite city we've visited. It's a beautiful city with gorgeous weather, active people and fabulous food!</div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-19120451059179172872012-08-03T01:01:00.000-05:002012-08-03T08:40:37.744-05:00San Francisco Half Marathon 2012*The one that felt really, really good. <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4868336980223191612"><imgsrc ei="ei" https:="https:" ignature.gif="ignature.gif" lh3.googleusercontent.com="lh3.googleusercontent.com" m2rppkra="m2rppkra" s288="s288" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" wpdrwtclgrk="wpdrwtclgrk" x4mdekimi="x4mdekimi"></imgsrc></a><br />
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Brandon and I woke up at 4:15am to prepare for an early 5:30am start. We knew our corral wouldn't cross the start line until later, but we wanted to at least be in the vicinity just in case. </div>
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I was a complete wreck inside my head. "OMG My last long run was a DNF. These hills are going to be brutal. I should have started training at least a month or two earlier than I did. We shouldn't have walked so much yesterday. I doubt I can even run a few miles OMG!!!". But on the exterior, I was calm and collected, determined to have a good time and see the beautiful city. </div>
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Despite all of the negative thoughts going on in my head, I felt pretty good at the start. The weather was a crisp 55 degrees with a light drizzle, and I quickly pushed all the negativity out and started to have fun. That was the purpose of this race, after all. </div>
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Miles 1-3 were easy and uneventful, with the exception of one short but steep hill that I ran halfway up and then walked the remainder. Mile 4 and 5 I was desperately trying to find a porta-pottie with a short line, but I finally settled for one that was 1/10th of a mile away from the road. This was incredibly frustrating, but emptying my bladder made me feel so much better that I quickly forgot about it. </div>
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Around mile 5, we started our first climb up the hill to the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge. </div>
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This is the reason we flew across the entire country to run this race. Well, that and to escape the heat and humidity for a few days. </div>
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It was a foggy day, so we couldn't even see the top of the bridge. Or anything on either side of the bridge, really. But that didn't phase me one bit. Running across the bridge was so amazing that I completely lost myself in it. Before I knew it, I was halfway across on the way back! </div>
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I looked at my watch and realized I was almost at 8 miles and I still felt amazing. This is the point in the race where I expected to start struggling- but instead I took off and ran faster.<br />
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Around mile 10, I had ran out of water, and the brutal hills began. I walked up most of this one- it was pretty long and steep. The next water stop (which were few and far between IMO) was out of cups- I literally thought about just grabbing and entire jug and taking off with it. But I politely cupped my hands and tried to get as much into my mouth as I could. </div>
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At this point, I REALLY expected to feel terrible. But I didn't. So, at the top of the hill, I took off again, and was rewarded with this beautiful view. </div>
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The hills continued, and I surprised myself by running up the ones that seemed easy or mediocre. On the ones that were incredibly steep, I slowed to a walk to make sure I had enough in me to get to the finish. Again, I kept expecting to feel terrible, but I actually felt pretty great. (Despite the fact that I REALLY needed more water and there were not more water stops to be found.)</div>
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I crossed the finish line in 2:52:00, which is a tiny PR for me. Most importantly, I crossed the finish feeling strong and happy. And also thirsty. </div>
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I am so happy with how I did during this race- especially taking into account the short training schedule that Adam threw together for me. If I can improve this much after following his plan for just a few weeks, I can't wait to see what I can do after 4 full months of following his training plan for the St. Jude half. </div>
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I really am proud of myself- but for the first time after a race, I have the feeling that I could have done more- should have gone out faster at the beginning, walked less, pushed myself more at the end. I definitely could have- but I was so terrified of bonking before the finish line. I guess that's always a thin line that runners are constantly trying to walk. Or run, in this scenario. :) </div>
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In short- confidence boosted, lessons learned, motivation skyrocketed, medal earned. </div>
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P.S. Brandon started in the back, but ran separate from me. He hoped to run quite a bit faster, but starting at the back forced him to weave, then got stuck on the bridge and wasn't able to pass people. He ran a 2:26:xx, had a blast and enjoyed the weather and the sights!</div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-42501951497127393242012-07-25T21:39:00.000-05:002012-07-26T06:05:24.305-05:00Happy Birthday, Grandmother<div style="text-align: center;">
For the past few weeks, I've been using my free time to make sure that every single detail was perfect for my Grandmother's 85th surprise birthday party. </div>
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Unfortunately, there are some things I cannot control- one of them being traffic. The poor woman was an hour late to her own birthday party. </div>
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Everything was set- ready for the birthday girl to arrive. </div>
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When she finally did arrive- she was the life of the party. As always. </div>
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Well, except for when Anniston was trying to steal her thunder by being so stinkin cute and showing everyone how she waves. </div>
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She had so many presents it was like Christmas in July! She seemed to really enjoy her photo book, and I think she loved the memory box we put together for her. It included lots of family photos, and letters from each one of us. </div>
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We love her so much, and for so many reasons- we had to make sure she knew it. She's the kind of woman who is always doing things for us- this night we made everything all about her. </div>
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I hope we made her as happy as she makes us.</div>
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Happy Birthday, Grandmother!</div>
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<br /></div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-9248852407441639792012-07-07T19:58:00.000-05:002012-07-07T19:58:31.472-05:00Running On The Go<p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'> We are visiting my in-laws this weekend who live in The-Middle-Of-Nowhere, TN. <br><br>#proof from my Friday morning run. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4kmCop7qS232_8Indlog2UksFmAUsLCcuW-TgjsfUIX4LLOEdQJXsFKWhdGNAGtbziot1rlu10Z0sLvgyn9CwZJVifW-vi7_Iu1bUI9Iu263DiTvhTwepbDK-0zlUAH8LcIWd9y3NBM/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>I don't think we're in Memphis anymore....</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXMyT9299Z7MCg5Zt9fwb4CD6eUzg07P61wvpYz-NL6P1xn1UjEtJJ0tXrlPnSHQh-5i9eqZKKsEIf5yEzm46WC71h3kACA3BNEyWPT6bYmNZWD6nJYJ5k_01pKQoiwwh_ZHWO2k4c5iQ/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>I usually look forward to coming here because it's very relaxing to be in the country with no cable and no Internet. <br><br>For a day.<br> Then I start to go a little crazy. Thank goodness for 3G.<br><br>Thank goodness for my cool aunt, too because she took my subtle hint (in the form of a shared Giftster wish list) about what I wanted for my birthday AND sent it to me early. <br><br>ENTER: <a href='http://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/women-bags/Good-Fortune-Bag?cc=7041&skuId=3459313&catId=women-bags' target='_self'>The Lululemon Good Fortune bag in Ray. </a><br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhmsIm0nn6ZEG0VOPDVlE_BBS_twUsgF5lQi-opv3AfylFY56q03-0k63WK6sODy8izo32uSXwUa2feQUpADaGsyXbfM0tv3eWI5KkV7MvulnYwofplSnKwk9PXuz6u6KIBzqYo12pNw/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><a href='http://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/women-bags/Good-Fortune-Bag?cc=7041&skuId=3459313&catId=women-bags' target='_blank'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmShC9GOAC0hLgXzGunoo7hnwK5-sIsy6o0COkcXZRwj2dC-lVEKqkkEFMNKOVUEZcMJgZi8BxBlXWXYEDLwMyRCqB40SZHSSyPa83DG4y23rucZ7qhU4gE38NtuaiQM9w7CpIdQtF2dI/'></a></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>I love bags even more than I love shoes. Everyone knows a girl must have a bag for every occasion, and this one works perfectly as a small workout bag.<br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge0efGNPGojyBn7_uM7uKg_fpfTGhBm4sQFIXGt6Z6U1dIwz9OjmmnMIG4ow52aXE70DonAXLaJ5RORh917A14qjP72HQVbZmAlHheP684S5_wo2eMt9iU8S9zkvX2-_xNJuigCTMDRus/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>At home, I leave it next to my running shoes and clothes at night so that everything I need the next morning is in one place. Solves the problem of heading out the door, frantically searching and screaming, "Where is my Garmin!??"<br><br>It's been especially handy on this trip- I have it stocked full of fuel, sunscreen, sunglasses, my Garmin, my RoadID, iPod, with plenty of room left for water. <br><br> <br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIzaiTmSJVsTSJ9hMXEKMr1cOxiDYyBhEM_CjrNpRcSfrRTQ9AC6iueRf7ol5WQZlZB5v39XPy9r3zk0qmSa77p9y2CPSElUpaQ85ZM7iNPpOWVR0Xu_KeRA44wh7-ITbPHmvwZPn2Ws/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>I'm sure I'll be sporting this beauty anytime I'm running errands in workout clothes. Which, let's face it- is often. Things like this - anything that is this pretty and helps me stay organized makes me happy. <br><br>You know what else makes me happy? My birthday. <br><br>Well, not really the getting older <br>part, but the getting presents, lots of attention, and making wishes part. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWhLWDKFqV0RKbI_ypT4Jo5aSj1e2j6w2gxRzHYsQ3iM0fB2sB5YKTUTxmbIUBemR9ky9_UezMW_BYmGGz-IYSselYkoqGEf4tXtU6yMR9TrXHP6rmg1WrDM7MPtOIY_WW5d9eQHXju7I/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>Example: I wished for some potato salad and my mother-in-law made the most ginormous batch and said I get to take home any leftovers. Anyone who goes near it gets the stink eye from me. </p>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-30596514764515736582012-07-04T17:07:00.000-05:002012-07-04T17:07:57.851-05:00My Longest Run and First Speedwork Run<p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>Happy Independence Day!<br><br>Since some people need meds even on holidays (I know, the nerve!!), I have to work today. I'm ok with that, except for the fact that I need some potato salad stat. Homemade, not grocery store purchased. Doesn't look like I will be getting any today, but luckily we are traveling to middle TN this weekend to visit my in-laws, and my MIL makes the best potato salad. Ever. <br><br><br>I have been working like a mad woman lately, and it has caught up with me. I've been absolutely exhausted for the past few days. This morning I was able to sleep in, get in a nice treadmill run, and work a very short 8 hour shift.</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfak5EOM4_6flu8xJjoVt7nA77Or613bLMXi6lc3tTfoDTZ9lIHhKqpQ6D6uc8RGiznQmaJN4RVoG-mjW2k8W7smj-qsFAdJD9xeYbTqS7FVNmVz_Jwr3db8p7Mk4QMP_aTANKJnSxIsU/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><br>I finally feel somewhat rested and relaxed. This shift is turning out to be a very easy 8 hour shift, since everyone came to get their groceries and meds this morning and are now enjoying their family cookouts. You better believe I'm taking full advantage of this slow workday. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGHSkE1bc7gK7ZJFKQE1mnYfANILpM0avVrNKnHwQy-aWaDabp1SAOw_umS4FSeCI0Mx66CM2qb1xJR-KS2htn0tOfkiCVdMmq0N8cDwTxADnLPc8MNMUJXSKIRFoi5SVPPQNlhJ50iE/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>The technicians that I work with were worried that I was training to become some sort of exotic dancer because of all of the stretching that I've been doing lately. <br><br>Truth is, I've been running like a cheetah. Which means I've been running fast. And a lot. I couldn't be happier or more proud of myself. <br><br>Sunday morning, I woke up at 4am to eat breakfast and start my run super early- trying to beat the heat. I ran 7 miles- without stopping!!! That is the longest I have ever run without taking a walk break. The last mile, my legs were so tired- but I pushed through it and kept going. <br><br>Monday was a rest day, which was good, because I had to work 12 hours, and I was not happy about it. <br><br>Tuesday, I had a 5 mile run on the schedule. 5 miles is something I would have considered a "long run" 1 month ago. It's amazing how much has changed in a month because this week, it wasn't the 5 miles that concerned me- it was the fact that it was my first speed workout. Ever. <br><br>I had to be at work at 7am Tuesday, which meant this run would be happening in the afternoon. Which means it was also on the treadmill. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXypC4qCKEK75Wk3TBm_Nxs5Mfw-J3F9YIpLkZh5JEPtNBiqnYEAk7BQ4wfzl6gQLidzTmo681GS0g7dJliQZfZhTWAo9Nsvsf1-Kfps6xh3ORC1ATnbLfr5JvlBwFA_6K7FhUZVHHVRs/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><br>I taped my workout to the screen, got my iPad hooked up with Law & Order via Netflix, and took off. My new Lululemon bag that my aunt sent me for my birthday was also there to cheer me up.<br><br> I was honestly doubting whether I could run my 800 meter sprints as fast as Adam wanted me to <i>on a good day</i>- and on this day I was exhausted and cranky with tired legs. I was so ready to be done with it that I was counting down the minutes until it was over. Once it was- I realized that I had done it.... and survived! I did more than just survive- I fought my tired legs and overcame my self-doubt to finish strong. <br><br>I can really tell I'm getting tougher not only physically, but mentally as well. A large part of that is that Adam is holding me accountable to my training schedule. If I don't finish what I set out to do, I have to explain that to him. And he's not going to let me get by with making up excuses.<br><br>I was so proud of myself and amazed at how much I have accomplished in these few short weeks that I have been training. It's so exciting to think about how much faster I will run St. Jude this year than I did last year. If I can improve this much in just a few weeks, there is no telling what I can accomplish after 5 solid months of serious training!</p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjitFT_LPWXQDsTkdmj4MA2vftQOlbWfyx1speeqjyACsiwIoIqZKqh0BVqgT52kEqFQBG36axfM73YoKd1TCBYRlA4TTFRtjNAzIxrzHpfzQidqhY5oCZLDIg3xe_TJdFgxWaafeaahss/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><h2><i><b>Stepping outside the comfort zone is the price I pay to find out how good I can be. If I planned on backing off every time running got difficult I would hang up my shoes and take up knitting. <br><br>Desiree Davila</b></i></h2></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'></p>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-91493909248117404722012-06-28T21:26:00.000-05:002012-06-28T21:26:55.540-05:00Anniston<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm sure you are sick of me telling you how beautiful my niece is. But she is. And now she's got a bubbly, sweet as sugar personality to match. </div>
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Point is, these don't do her justice. It's taken me a long, long time to be "done" with editing them (my apologies to my sister) mostly because I wanted them to be perfect. As perfect as she is. </div>
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I finally realized that is impossible.</div>
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So, here they are. </div>
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<a href=""><imgsrc="https: -wpdrwtclgrk="" 282m2rppkra="" aaaaaaaabei="" lh3.googleusercontent.com="" s288="" signature.gif"="" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" t2x4mdekimi=""></imgsrc="https:></a>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-79221962909093400942012-06-28T14:30:00.001-05:002012-06-28T15:30:44.465-05:00You may laugh, but you may not judge.<p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>Yesterday, I left you as a cool person who was extremely excited about running.<br><br>Today, I am a non-cool person who wrecked on a bike. <br><br>We'll get to that later. <br><br>First, I would like to present you with this- a picture of me, riding a bike. Because I do know how to ride a bike. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaxU-iXhiOjTTy5M7Rd9TC11IraEzqMfv-U8cVHYg52fyG93vsZqRJ9F0IGxKa8gJcwMJS_SUS8gHIL1XG_nxxQE4oTOEfsvR1qI37miVwa5cnojv1Psb2GFAAadk_6H00I81Z62DHC2E/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>I was even taking the picture WHILE I was riding. <br><br>So, I do know how to multi-task while riding a bike. Save this information for later, when you are judging me.
<br>
TRUTH: I almost wrecked like 3 times this day, too. I'm a klutz, and I'm smart enough to wear a helmet. So laugh and judge all you want. :)
<br><br>About today- I woke up this morning with another rest day on the schedule. Luckily it was not a complete rest day, and I was very excited to have some time with my bike and my new Lululemon cycling shorts. <br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcMb7fW8hkWyJyjY2nJnPrqb7p8nRSfTkXb76WPYvfn0M93_WXTcqnG8_t-tvD-yEc-CnaG4G1E2EUJw4lCy6AVGcumVEucUYPBIDgvYOgSRXdARnJgqIpMsFD4_A-or7ENrNp3Ca45tA/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>I was riding along, thinking, <i>"I'm practically a real cyclist. I have cycling shorts. And a bike. Plus a helmet!" </i><br><br>Then boom!<br><br>Ok, I guess "boom" isn't the correct way to describe it, since I didn't run into anything. And nothing ran into me....<br><br> I was trying to speed up becasue I was about to climb this really long, really steep hill and I figured a little momentum wouldn't hurt. I realized I was thirsty- so as I was speeding up, I started to take a drink of water with one hand, leaving the other on the bike. <br><br>About 20 yards away, this truck starts backing out of a driveway. I think <i>"I need to slow down, but I have plenty of time to put my water bottle back down, place both hands on the bike, and slow down properly".</i> The hand that remained on the bike obviously disagreed and thought it was urgent, because I slammed on my front brake. <br><br>Then I proceeded to topple over the front of my bike.<br><br>In the middle of the street, trying to get up and pretend this never happned, <i>"This is soooo not something that would happen to a real cyclist. They only have wrecks when there is actual imminent danger. A truck 20 yards away is not that dangerous when neither of us are going fast</i>."</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyKslqpMTri5Qh_6RkD6wew1VOf2Ud9m-KbPE2q8mgXU_Vfwm8s9C8P_00H_GmKgRAYSoUQyoj8jMc29sDZiAdQZa57Dzy6NcAXe6Enw41g-hv34By36kaWdjhPRodGtM7UEynDVAHlrA/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>I tried get home as quickly as possible so none of my neighborhood running friends see the blood all over my chin. <i>"I kind of want to wipe my chin with my shirt so it's not so obvious I just busted my face, but that will ruin the shirt and it's my favorite yellow short-sleeved running shirt. Maybe if I had a real cycling shirt this would have never happened."</i>
I ended up just acting like I had to scratch my face when I passed someone and tried to cover up my chin. And tried to not wreck again, obviously.
<br><br>I only had a few scrapes, and I figured I would eventually get a few bruises. This was the third time I've worn my RoadID, which I finally just got around to purchasing. <i>"I wonder if I can be on their website. There will be a picture of my face, all bloody and fugly, and I'll be so glad I was wearing my RoadID."</i> (Un)Fortunately, they probably won't think this was that serious. <br><br>When I got home, Brandon cleaned up all of my scrapes for me, which made me feel much better. <br><br>Then he texted all of his friends and family, "This was what happened when Allison tried to cut my allowance".</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GwwTPNWI-WUBMWmZuAkv-urq1bVMxkPeOcmD2cWICBAcoZpKaTjEK9uczJbRjW1Zq9fYACu-0xCThupRtLSz0-BfQA9ayxKusuPyGWpXl8K0Wh2wDWbhPCakcF8WWMLYHmZT67R4RSs/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikg8IuavN8vnQxkM8TzWbAK715G7lUr6vf6KRhjWmtTXHMaYYrsK45a_OCEa3fgkuAPEO8Ks1Qb7C8ofHHaXjNsagMc2wygsOSaT-pTQnYKVGEOZ3_dSdwA-iF_qFIHwL6IP1pBQJNKzM/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPbvAe8OPnlp_20V2C1C4UqPnR39Wg7MlwBcdWE8hbcXG8AMAfwG_Qt8e2D2ME9jFFlLxQilIsnGmOBNxAgaaUcEepfpYrWxBH1dnCGokglBpz1M7-B1emWudNQJV-AQ5jr7XyXyJCtM/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><br>I'm at work now, trying to act like a serious pharmacist with a Band-Aid on my chin. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYjteNMDjAOA0_kaclCR95c941xM8V59P7Xp6HOwNgKSwGpZgEL5Jp3NqLgcVWg9CK_kvFjur1ll5cmyzcU8-KeEp1XXy1pxk9DSAEmlA-amSj9jwmcTZKt6oatLsgpEdarM7FNwxcbo/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><br>In conclusion, the bike is fine, my shirt is fine, and I'm fine except for the fact that my face is jacked up and everyone is staring. <br><br>Boo!!!!<br><br>They are not really staring but I feel like being dramatic. <br><br>At least one good thing will come of this- Brandon is really good at taking care of me when I am sick or injured. And I am really really good at milking it for all it's worth. <br><br>He's already brought me lunch today and offered to ice my knee for me while I sit on the couch tonight and watch whatever I want. <br><br>I'll probably even a get ginormous serving of fro-yo, and not feel guilty at all. Because everyone needs ice cream when they (almost-but-not-really) get injured.<br></p>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-21382743209133295902012-06-27T12:04:00.000-05:002012-06-27T12:04:09.448-05:00Some Running Firsts<p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>Good Morning! <br><br>Today is a fun day for me- as I transition from a casual runner to a semi-serious runner that is actually training for a half-marthon, I've had the opportunity to experience a few things for the first time. <br><br>I had Gu for the first time.<br><br>I've tasted a tiny amount of Gu before- enough to know I didn't care for the texture. Today I actually ate some for the first time- and it wasn't so bad. I didn't actually need Gu for my run today, but since I will need to take one on my LR this weekend to practice for my half-marathon, I decided to take one today to practice for my LR. Makes sense, right?<br><br>I really didn't want the first time I actually ate it to be in the middle of a hot, sweaty, long run since I knew I might throw up. I don't need anything jinxing my long runs- I've had enough bad experiences and anxiety attempting those in the past. Luckily, after my practice round this morning, I think I will survive taking one on my run this weekend. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xmuckoVpX37DlknwhwstVhyw9wX7OoBX5JN5m1dNMxLNV1oCFCG73kLHG3rfMt9ooX-CxC2QKHBJtfX-kr_-RfKBIn_3ZgEOEhpEPMuFMyEo9wsszz_SvrHx3wRwQzYSFdiREFz1rJ0/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>Today was my first tempo run! Sure, I've read about them, I even know people who have done them... but I've never successfully completed one until today.<br><br>Last week, I kind of did one, but my pacing was erratic and there was a 15 second break when an old lady thought it would be a good idea to tell me how old all 5 of her dogs were while I was in the middle of a run. I felt like I cheated since I stopped to listen to her, and I wasn't happy with my pacing in the first place. <br><br>But today.... Today I did a lot better. It feels good to run fast (at least fast for me, anyways) and not die afterwards. Also, running fast during a 4 mile run? That has never happened to me before. In my past running life, running fast = 1 or 2 miles tops. <br><br>I'm grinning from ear-to-ear with endorphin induced happiness. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UwLZEqJMcZNSK3Xtfrh9LfGL2dljI3Mb39PeFKXHzXISV1_tnKWS7ueA1F3vbz6Q5u59y3lJzMqfCtLy_lHNIxjlEOllkF1aD-sHUqXKXlSC_Xs6zDmTZAcNhocpf4n38m3DuRDvJGM/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>Today is the first time I've almost murdered someone over coffee. <br><br>I've seen coffee-less frenzies and rants on Twitter, but I experienced first-hand what it felt like today. I just started drinking coffee about a month or two ago, and I haven't graduated to grown-up coffee yet. I must have a good helping of soy milk in mine. <br><br>Yesterday, I woke up to no soy milk in the house. This means no coffee for Allison. (It also means no granola for breakfast GRRRR) I settled for a Diet Coke and went on with my day. <br><br>Today, there is STILL no soy milk! My husband is lucky to have survived the morning. <br><br>Lucky for him, I'm all happy and proud of myself after my run, I got ready early and had time to stop and get some coffee on my way to work. <br><br>(He was still rushing out the door to the grocery because he knows I can not go 2 days without cereal or granola.)</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEdCCAoEY-UiS2jVaLg0q0Mks-KDQYFLG8i6sTi6hE5_uneJkgnMTQj8v8PfsKBNhxe2nHoMhbR5QZVzXrMQ7kCcTWmUkSbulKztHZBeGS1S08BFHxTIds1EornByuzo5zBqYgxj77IWQ/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>Yay! Coffee for Allison! <br><br><br>Somehow I also ended up leaving Starbucks with this.....</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjloxt9hLHDBOv38CwP5dcHXpmWx7w1Dwj5ZuIDWZ4V0PtqdfCb79kIlKx2m6LarE7Js5gmvjGlMxKJY1pyn6a_QFSpchXhGAk05owp0xvqjYHhliOEal_nAhGph7TJxPbahoyega0nLEs/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>This is why I don't let myself go places!<br><br>I walk in for an already overpriced cup of iced coffee and get distracted by this red, white and blue (Olympics!) bracelet. <br><br>Oh, well. I guess it's for a good cause and I feel the need to express to everyone I see how much I love the Olympics, so we'll just go with it. </p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><i><font size='4' color='Gray' face='TrebuchetMS' ><b >We all have dreams. In order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline and effort. <br><br>Jesse Owens, American track and field athlete and Olympic gold medal winner</b></font></i></p>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-30252397401085497062012-06-26T14:31:00.000-05:002012-06-26T14:33:05.291-05:00Rest Days<p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>I'm usually working at least a 10 hour shift or am incredibly busy on my "rest" days, but yesterday I found myself with only an 8 hour shift at work and a complete rest day on the calendar. Being strong-willed and stubborn, I of course woke up wanting to sweat. <br><br>Since I'm following Coach Adam's training plan these days, I decided to use the extra time in the morning to make myself presentable. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyWRDNIMaGKCV4imzM_RdM_TNt0dBgTRIIABQBnnc7EKRB5jSw_gzLcn4AyJi1Ecu-CsVgc8ZUhzrWgYq51nIhedsGcxr96eWlWCBDomD0AfG7qbsyE6R6BI5q1Bxxo64XUHMBB1IPT_Y/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB7fJ5xYRStmuwrGm6_PnCEYbGeuE1vO3vjIDVX6ajKE49A8HaDqEwdmgJ4ztP7qYLNF9zVa8vggRqna-b3HmkX6GCZfY4AOZvuM78shhmCgm4K6HpyopKZm8o3bphjPZAXutCFoH2Qto/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'> I needed some yellow in my life.<br><br>I'm not used to getting off of work so early, which made the fact that it was a rest day even more torturous. I was a bit restless and cranky, but some Fruit Punch fat-free dairy-free sorbet and an episode of Law & Order later, I was a happy girl. <br><br>Having extra play time with my Phoebekins wasn't so bad, either. </p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7HYGgrUwgRSjS39DDXxl2pwQoi_X2mVn5kSlKfAABrjfla-LNG0aGaclOWe4iv6Q0viQw4CJXIhPLA_8xDS2Pj0gx0Qab3jXeUfvZGs6dAcgwbLyJ-Je66-zEUa1Ux6v0VePQQEIYcY/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><i><font size='4' color='Gray' face='TrebuchetMS' ><b >That's the thing about running: your greatest runs are rarely measured by racing success. They are moments in time when running allows you to see how wonderful your life is. <br><br>Kara Goucher</b></font></i></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'>Running allows me to have time to relax, time to think, a chance to get out any frustrations. Running first thing in the morning makes me happy for the rest of the day, and makes me realize how much I love my life. <br><br>And Adam is denying me of this happiness. <br><br>Kidding! <br>Sort of. <br><br>Thank goodness for my other "rest" days this week, Adam is allowing me to ride my bike. I need to be outside in this gorgeous (but hot) weather, I need to sweat, I need to use up some energy, and I need to try out my new Lululemon cycling shorts. <br></p>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-53026456100102562872012-06-24T09:35:00.000-05:002012-06-24T09:43:47.880-05:00Maybe It Was Magic<div>
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I had the best run that I can remember for a long, long time this morning. I felt amazing, like I could go on forever without being tired or out of breath. I ran 6 this week at a faster pace than I ran 4 last week- and it felt<i> so easy</i>.<br />
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I must document everything that could have played a part so that this magic can happen more often.</div>
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<i>Maybe it was the preparation. </i></div>
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I had some good ole fashioned carb loading for dinner last night (ahem, left over pasta, a breadstick, and a small bowl of cereal for dessert...), and stayed hydrated all day long. I set out everything I would need to get ready this morning. This really helps me feel in control instead of scrambling around in the dark to grab all of my things. </div>
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I set out for 5 miles, but Adam gave me the go ahead to run 6 if I felt really good. </div>
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<i>Maybe it was the music. </i></div>
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I listen to audiobooks 95% of the time when I run. For some reason today just felt like a music day. I love to listen to Eminem when I'm running as much as the next person, but sometimes a happy song like this is just what you need when you feel like you are flying. O.A.R.'s Hey Girl came up right as I hit 4, and at that moment I knew I could do 6 easily. </div>
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You should probably just go ahead and hit play so you can listen to it while you read. And add it to your iPod so you can experience the magic. </div>
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<i>Maybe it was in my head.</i></div>
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I went out with a very calm mindset. I've had some anxiety in the past when my long runs got up to 7 or 8 miles and it felt overwhelming. I knew I could definitely do 5, and a 6th mile was just a bonus. </div>
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I told myself from early on, "If Amy Hastings can finish her 10k in that much pain and kick that much butt, you can too."</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiah58Eo3ryMxaLqHh1sOBbuh1cEj79ddyIZn4htZIhZ_iLje8NhNY9zAsLtpIB-Ksmh0hvLUyPRT_punJnJks7b4-fScuRNJy48Mw0uIqVOhgpw7SC32DgGMVd0sr6FsuEKb_xJU5Nm-/s1600/amyhastings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiah58Eo3ryMxaLqHh1sOBbuh1cEj79ddyIZn4htZIhZ_iLje8NhNY9zAsLtpIB-Ksmh0hvLUyPRT_punJnJks7b4-fScuRNJy48Mw0uIqVOhgpw7SC32DgGMVd0sr6FsuEKb_xJU5Nm-/s640/amyhastings.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.i4u.com/gallery/2012/06/eugene-or/rupp-sprinters-top-breezes-advance-rain?nr=5">Source</a></td></tr>
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<i>Maybe it was confidence.</i></div>
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I can't really explain it, but something about having a plan that I know will work, makes sense, and isn't called "Allison makes this crap up and changes it to fit her fancy" makes me feel good about what I am doing. </div>
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I have a plan. And I'm following it. (That last part is really important for training. Plans don't do you any good if you don't follow them, FYI.)</div>
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Maybe Adam actually knows what he's talking about.</div>
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Speaking of my plan, something made me trust this guy to come up with it. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.theboringrunner.com/">The Boring Runner</a></td></tr>
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I think that was a good decision. He's smart. He lets me rest, and I don't even feel guilty about it! Which may have been a key part in today's magic. My legs felt like they could have kept going and going.</div>
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I felt so strong. </div>
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Maybe hard work pays off. </div>
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I've been really trying to take care of my body lately. I've been sleeping well, paying attention to what I put into my body, hydrating, resting, and running exactly what Adam tells me to. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyU-RLCcy_Yz3PKzDmcpiEUHoteBHPm2IsStbvY5X7Q241HdagA2Mei-WnBm3LlpR2GwthEPJdPIxyf_8GyL2hcHcBakrdSxa00DrENi-YlNWZ_KBdQPjmX0LH1vkNLPYc2UAQYRQ48IIj/s1600/neonrunning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyU-RLCcy_Yz3PKzDmcpiEUHoteBHPm2IsStbvY5X7Q241HdagA2Mei-WnBm3LlpR2GwthEPJdPIxyf_8GyL2hcHcBakrdSxa00DrENi-YlNWZ_KBdQPjmX0LH1vkNLPYc2UAQYRQ48IIj/s640/neonrunning.jpg" width="406" /></a></div>
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I know not every run will be this great, but today gives me hope that I can survive San Francisco, and possibly even make the little kiddies at St. Jude proud. </div>
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<a href="http://www.stjudemarathon.org/">St. Jude Marathon, Half-Marathon, Relay, and 5k</a></div>
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</div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-56914016247234337702012-06-20T07:37:00.001-05:002012-06-20T07:46:32.941-05:00Tomorrow's Potential<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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Sometimes it's easy to get frustrated with running. You can't go as long or as fast as you'd like, or it feels more difficult and hurts more than you think it should. But that is today.<br />
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What about tomorrow, or the next day, the next month, the next year- after you have put in the work? So much can change with hard work.<br />
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I've been reading <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Lola-Papers-Marathons-Misadventures/dp/1891369962">The Lola Papers</a></i> (which I highly recommend BTW), and the following passage really stood out to me:<br />
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I don't know about you, but I've definitely used that excuse before.<br />
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<i>"It doesn't come easy for me."</i><br />
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<i>"There is no way I could ever run that fast"</i><br />
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Who does it comes easy for? Shalane Flanagan? Kara Goucher?<br />
Sure, they have some amount of natural talent, but they still work at it. They work very hard.<br />
They've put in the time, and the miles.<br />
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It's exciting to think about. Today, it's hard for me to imagine being able to run a half-marathon as fast as I'd like. It's hard for me to imagine running a marathon at all.<br />
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But I haven't put in the time, or the miles. <br />
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Who knows, with a few months, and eventually years of hard work- after putting in my time and my miles- what I can do?<br />
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Only time will tell. </div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-37660914501301265532012-06-17T17:39:00.000-05:002012-06-17T17:39:13.855-05:00My 5 Gold Stars<div align="left" class="bloggerplus_text_section" style="clear: both;">
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As I mentioned in my previous post, "training" is a new thing to me as a runner. Sure, I made a training schedule for each of my half-marathons. They were based off of Hal Higdon's training plan, but modified by me to fit into my work/life schedule. And then I proceeded to procrastinate on getting started. And then I skipped a few runs... or cut them short. I officially named the plan "Allison makes this crap up and then changes it to fit her fancy". Needless to say, that whole plan didn't work very well for me.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmvSB9_rvMHnMVfoKikUauC4dzMJQ-6cDcBTo0nHzchNkJ3va3PXkWh5R9-P1IK5ZZg7IDINDhXgQTT7-0yxTPz_NDHbncUv1zFbUg8U6MVfTpVYtT1hDCR11e4NPoPx3uIrw-qz5j2H15/s1600/20111203StJudeMarathon004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmvSB9_rvMHnMVfoKikUauC4dzMJQ-6cDcBTo0nHzchNkJ3va3PXkWh5R9-P1IK5ZZg7IDINDhXgQTT7-0yxTPz_NDHbncUv1zFbUg8U6MVfTpVYtT1hDCR11e4NPoPx3uIrw-qz5j2H15/s640/20111203StJudeMarathon004.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Jude Hero! Yay!</td></tr>
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Last Sunday when Adam e-mailed me my training plan, I was pumped and ready to go. I've always been a bit of a goody-two-shoes when it comes to teachers, coaches, and authority. You know, the little brat who still had all 5 of her gold stars at the end of the week for "good behavior"? Yeah, that was me. A suck-up in the presence of authority, but when the teacher turned her back I was launching erasers across the room with the contraption I had made from my supply box and pencils.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLuIBaW6yOuIwXpbofbVAVPxX9Bvr089680kGVdj2UJ0fGcqk-C2ELvXkHV4GKyTkN4SSpSRalDjDbyk9U4SfJJgsWsznv6yLH27CmFIwHyfuIo-c-SC4GY5D_9iKX2AZF9gS0cb3B888/s1600/20070718-scans-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLuIBaW6yOuIwXpbofbVAVPxX9Bvr089680kGVdj2UJ0fGcqk-C2ELvXkHV4GKyTkN4SSpSRalDjDbyk9U4SfJJgsWsznv6yLH27CmFIwHyfuIo-c-SC4GY5D_9iKX2AZF9gS0cb3B888/s640/20070718-scans-5.jpg" width="442" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me at the peak of brattiness. You want me to smile? Well I'll do it, but I might not be happy about it. </td></tr>
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When Adam sent me the plan, I was absolutely determined to do exactly what he said.<br />
I had no intentions of loosing my 5 gold star status in the first week. <br />
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For example, Monday, he told me to run 2 easy miles. If I couldn't say "Why did I hire stupid Adam as my coach?" in between breaths, I was going too fast. I headed out the door, checking myself at least every two minutes to make sure I was running at the right pace.<br />
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As I was trotting along, I noticed a huge black cloud that looked like it would be over my head at any minute. Then suddenly, the wind picked up majorly and the temperature dropped about 10 degrees. Before I knew it, some hipster stopped his car right beside me and yelled, "You better run home, there is a (*flipping*) tornado on Poplar!"</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was the storm above me as I was running. </td></tr>
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I was about 0.5 miles from home, but had looped around the neighborhood and was at exactly 1 mile. Since I'm not stupid, I turned around and headed back towards my house. However, since I am a goody-two-shoes and refused to tell Adam I had wimped out of a lousy 2 mile run because of the weather (how lame would that excuse sound?), I didn't go home. <br />
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I ran up and down my street, back and forth, until my Garmin vibrated that I had hit 2 miles. Sure, I looked over my shoulder every 15 seconds to see if the tornado was approaching, and when a tree branch fell and hit a truck right behind me I think my heart rate jumped to about 500, but I finished out those 2 miles, dang-it. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgazFgxNJvaaFuJMH_Lb9YyxgtP6xFUEL0ZLZVSrd8jmWipTT1PbWBxVnJDZxWw85nYJ__cUC-m0dki_bGDQwZky9CZLqJXjNi3NhBa7MxX3tzTojSXyeXWPJ-M14jjhpjjgRSVeypAkOBO/s1600/20120611-rain-6-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgazFgxNJvaaFuJMH_Lb9YyxgtP6xFUEL0ZLZVSrd8jmWipTT1PbWBxVnJDZxWw85nYJ__cUC-m0dki_bGDQwZky9CZLqJXjNi3NhBa7MxX3tzTojSXyeXWPJ-M14jjhpjjgRSVeypAkOBO/s640/20120611-rain-6-Edit.jpg" width="554" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See? Branches in the street = danger. </td></tr>
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Turns out, I think the hipster was being a tiny bit dramatic. There was no tornado.<br />
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The rest of the week, I continued to surprise myself with how much better I was running when I went out with a plan. The thought of having to report that I went slower than expected for no reason other than I just didn't feel like it made me actually TRY. (As opposed to just giving up when I get bored or when it gets even slightly difficult. )<br />
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There wasn't an option to cut a run short unless my femur cutting through broken skin or something. There was no way I was going to get anything less than an A+ on my weekly report card, so I pushed myself. I give myself 5 gold stars.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuq_GfbzpHr9U-Aw_xK85gzxpKMMGlrjPL-IlA65Grr2MKeYBqSE898IY-xpSAn7IRJU84weLtnt553CtSHnBJfhXM9k9iegbB_lNFsOLDmWofyCS__dUBFyj4V6TCkjPMxYoR6-pTM7wU/s1600/20120617-pinkshoes-2-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuq_GfbzpHr9U-Aw_xK85gzxpKMMGlrjPL-IlA65Grr2MKeYBqSE898IY-xpSAn7IRJU84weLtnt553CtSHnBJfhXM9k9iegbB_lNFsOLDmWofyCS__dUBFyj4V6TCkjPMxYoR6-pTM7wU/s1600/20120617-pinkshoes-2-Edit.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you haven't heard, neon shoes + training makes you faster and stronger. </td></tr>
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I'm thinking I could get used to this thing you guys call "training". I did a smart thing, hiring Adam as my coach. I absolutely need to push myself more physically, but what has prevented me from doing so in the past is what goes on in my head.<br />
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The fact that he knows what he's doing and wouldn't tell me to do something I can't gives me the confidence to get out there and just do it. At some point I'm sure I will honestly mean it when I mutter under my breath, "Why did I hire stupid Adam as my coach?", and possibly even launch virtual erasers at the back of his head. But for now, he gets an apple for being a good coach and teacher. </div>
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</div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-37592130801193840332012-06-17T12:14:00.000-05:002012-06-17T12:14:06.069-05:00For My Dad<div style="text-align: center;">
I've always been a Daddy's Girl. How could I not be? I honestly think my Dad might be the sweetest man in the whole entire world. </div>
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Especially when it comes to me. :)</div>
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He has always done anything and everything he can for me. Spending hours working with me to practice softball, taking off work early to come to my volleyball games, and sitting through way too many 3 hour dance recitals to count. </div>
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He is such a hard worker, but still likes to have fun every chance he can get. </div>
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He has a strong faith in God and loyalty to his family that I have always admired in him. </div>
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I try (and fail, most of the time) to be even-tempered, good natured, and just "go with the flow" like he does. </div>
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I like to think that I inherited some small amount of his craftiness, creativity, and common sense. </div>
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I always wanted to marry a man that treated me just like my Dad- which is basically spoiling me, letting me do whatever I want while encouraging me to always do my best, being there to support me, and only putting his foot down when it really really matters. I think I came pretty close, except that Brandon doesn't wake me up himself every morning (he actually makes me use an alarm clock!) with homemade waffles (which is probably a good thing). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGt4HpJ0xS2_fJJ7_rhxgRWvCot-T9zGQcR_7d0bUNkyCr2UQ1BhDpMT7XS737CvUyKQ8rkR-vKc1r9X7fSfePvtScZ7_zPZXYOqSQw6cQm3s_86qceb675Le4eLBzCuAnmPS5-7p2B_Nv/s1600/20111210ChristmasW-Hoppers115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGt4HpJ0xS2_fJJ7_rhxgRWvCot-T9zGQcR_7d0bUNkyCr2UQ1BhDpMT7XS737CvUyKQ8rkR-vKc1r9X7fSfePvtScZ7_zPZXYOqSQw6cQm3s_86qceb675Le4eLBzCuAnmPS5-7p2B_Nv/s640/20111210ChristmasW-Hoppers115.jpg" width="490" /></a></div>
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I love you, Daddy, and I hope someday I will grow up and be just like you (In addition to looking just like you).</div>
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<br /></div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-32217789586811629712012-06-15T11:38:00.000-05:002012-06-15T11:39:21.360-05:00I think this is completely logical and normal. Or it might be hoarding.<p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>You know those products that you can't live without? The ones that you are always afraid of running out of, or fear that they will be discontinued and you will never find anything like it, so you stock up on it to decrease that anxiety?<br><br>No? You don't do that? That's just me? Ok. <br><br>Well, these are the things that I'm stocking up on right now. <br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_G2cB96OSZB2YhJuuDzf7bPhJlGWCgjsDD27yIY3Visssok9C3ZFCBMmhYSpPEhxnjrK02nm0gNEmXWQXFODX7rVEmejBaxyM9h-EU1-EkSRnxKYy6e4yIy9sD285LWLkgXaxAlHpdw4/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'><a target="_blank" href="http://www.justinsnutbutter.com/products.php"><a target="_blank" href="">Justin's Chocolate Hazelnut Butter.</a></a> I eat this EVERY day with my apples. Stockpiling commence- I signed up for a subscription for this on Amazon and got 15% off for it. <br><br><br>This isn't really news- and I think it's completely normal. When I find running gear I like, I stick to it. And I stock up on it in every color I can. Also, I need enough duplicates to get me through a few days without having to do laundry</p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiteBhzyaXIh6JDL34i1ySdoTJkaKEwGOiKIAzrCH44U9EVHJcvRc5W0Gxj2jpMPI85psAuxRBhjwpl8Av27sfzNaPm03aVaf-_JTm9k_nO4zaYF8hToffTKYswS87vr64_afD5odUJCWQ/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'><br><br> I love these <a target="_blank" href="http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/?l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-461805/pgid-461807&cp=usns_0328071544">Nike tanks</a>, because they are loose fitting and long enough to cover my bum. Plus, they are made of dri-fit (essential) and they come in pretty neon colors. Neon is a must for me when I run, because everyone knows neon makes you fast. <br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhULV0ulSWxPdTC8QJwnF7R4iURzfkqdNJo7O2MmNyUpS4rPkJwAzwN5wSQgaoqWdyWsgBL9xEC6hN9-ZqsDo2-rTjeqZNrl4qlruHFYtNYFLpevjvzDrwIccV6sXUwn5_g87hTeFLhaHE/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>These <a target="_blank" href="http://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/women-shorts/Run-Dart-And-Dash-Short?cc=0001&sli=1">Lululemon shorts</a> are my first big purchase from there via their website, and I'm pretty sure I could live in them. Lululemon has now been added to the stores that I am obsessed with, and will forever stalk their website and stores for new products and sales. <br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3qKy9bz2_D7iHNR3k4-TPm4Vxq4qfbDrRutAY4ZUIOOxqUnjX7m_T8gdHYSwzrJ6DfHoxvKEF64aX82JbC-d-KUGa3aX4E7jCl0jpW79AQm1WE6hkXxt0C0ukt2EF4ykjSXXJHcnVpI/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'><a target="_blank" href="http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/?l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-461864/pgid-450902&cp=usns_0328071544">Nike Frees</a> are my one and only love when it comes to running shoes. If I can catch a pair on sale, they are mine! I am too embarrassed to admit how many pair I own at the moment. In my defense, many are retired from running and now only serve as work shoes. <br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9hAqW6qaOO7oo9wdweFD7ZRCmDfDX71GhSCk1aPhWE5ufSUSJtv5ISwRXc0OjmbjYk2jLnwahSiPbper6n_5y7keaDNnRMtB7Uq-BF-2ZhBT-KpgDn1dNoVwdVgpBfGQJoUa2_uhfmRA/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'><br>After a eye-opening visit to Urban Outfitters this week, I've finally faced the fact that I'm preppy. I've actually known this for a while but I'm just now admitting it to myself. J. Crew sales have been outrageous lately, and I've scored several AMAZING deals. I never pass up a classic <a target="_blank" href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/sweaters/cardigans/PRDOVR~29350/29350.jsp?srcCode=AFFI00001&siteId=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-bsMMW%2A4y%2FeYfMW1i%2FUNQgQ">Jackie cardigan</a> on sale, and picked up this one in a powder blue, and another in retro lemon. <br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbHsc6-UT99oIFX7UKK5BGtjCulAscX3ZcdrJ9uy9d-UTMRoEgl2bKqk3_QbbHOiIqVM3bhS3opsallGIyd5ncxPsLUMfmIU0NAsbJewnibrxSZj1JruFNSL5rAbKSwceJIKzo34ZC5s/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>This may or may not be hoarding, but at least it's hoarding electronics and not cat figurines. I posted this proof of my love for electronics last night to Twitter. They come in fun colors, tell you all kinds of cool information, and let you over-share lots of information to strangers on the internet. I need most of them close to me at all times or I feel naked, but some are just for funzies- for example....<br><br><br></p><p class='bloggerplus_image_section'><div class='bloggerplus_image_section' align='center' style='clear:both;'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ZMz-nlnZPXHC36TwgZyfvQv-47UVhF50V0orf875w0ljQLOrieI6ytw7vM56BcZv4QZdeFGeEGRXtTZ6ki7PEcKCmUOi_xPTNdPIrT51bmPQQ4Use76Mt1nQtEgexvRXetjHx2NapDs/'></div></p><p class='bloggerplus_text_section' align='left' style='clear:both;'>This is completely ridiculous and unnecessary. But I had a gift card that I was ready to get rid of, and it sure does get some good laughs. Also, it's perfect for when I do coaching sessions over the phone and need something way cooler than a bluetooth headset. <br><br><br></p>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-42173184120795115612012-06-11T17:00:00.000-05:002012-06-11T17:00:06.931-05:00This Situation Is Getting Serious<div style="text-align: center;">
My training situation, that is. </div>
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I've been running for 2 years now, and for the most part, my only goal has been to have fun and get some good exercise. For my half-marathons, my goal was just to finish. And I did finish. Yay me!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPnc2K_fZEi3j496qxFFbspfKIok9fsdveegiQOb6Atlzq0QMJDQaj5CKivGLt5Mwbm4fPKgPh_Q0PZVG-VgYuUO6UARas0f7UOJuaWkPLztOc679V3TA0rGItwrT1A__sLIPUUJK_0Sw/s1600/20111205StJudeMarathon011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPnc2K_fZEi3j496qxFFbspfKIok9fsdveegiQOb6Atlzq0QMJDQaj5CKivGLt5Mwbm4fPKgPh_Q0PZVG-VgYuUO6UARas0f7UOJuaWkPLztOc679V3TA0rGItwrT1A__sLIPUUJK_0Sw/s640/20111205StJudeMarathon011.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We are running the San Francisco Half-Marathon at the end of July, and since we'll be on vacation my goal, again, is just to finish and have fun. Problem is, since my goal is so relaxed, my running has been relaxed as well. A little too relaxed. While I do want to have fun running the beautiful city of San Francisco, I would also like to finish strong and with some dignity. </div>
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Coming up in December is another St. Jude Half-Marathon, and I want to give that race all that I've got. I've finally gotten everything else in my life situated (meaning I graduated school and have a job that I'm happy with), so it's time to really dedicate myself to this 100%. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfJmCTL6X_XQ-g-bL-DWNbPwxzG7KcidOUWRQCXgv_vFunCZ0UmBYHujCIZi59LgHisSfpmSzNLk-s-rB2X8ulq47JAVbRA4GaIe2kyf1whRB4NgDmme9M8rcKjhLIumYwUAjK5MszoUKi/s1600/IMG_2611-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfJmCTL6X_XQ-g-bL-DWNbPwxzG7KcidOUWRQCXgv_vFunCZ0UmBYHujCIZi59LgHisSfpmSzNLk-s-rB2X8ulq47JAVbRA4GaIe2kyf1whRB4NgDmme9M8rcKjhLIumYwUAjK5MszoUKi/s640/IMG_2611-Edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lucky for me, I have a new running BFF. (Fine, I hired him to be my BFF but that is beside the point) His name is <a href="http://www.theboringrunner.com/" target="_blank">Adam,</a> and he is highly qualified for the <strike>job </strike> privilege of telling me when to run and how fast to run for the following reasons:</div>
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1. He runs marathons. In less that 3:05. Which is very, very fast. </div>
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2. He is a fun person. And I like to have fun. </div>
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3. He likes to talk about running. A lot. + He has to listen to me talk about running a lot, especially after my husband, my sister, my technicians and even some of my patients get tired of hearing me talk about it.</div>
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Grandmom, even though this photo may not instill an overwhelming amount of faith in him, I promise he is legit. Don't worry. </div>
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Here goes week #1 of serious training! </div>
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<br /></div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-48820971250707800672012-06-10T17:24:00.002-05:002012-06-10T17:24:39.627-05:00Slathered in SunscreenI stopped tanning in a tanning bed after high school. I hardly ever layout in the sun (read: once a year maybe?), and my face lotion always has sunscreen in it. I try to be smart, but I'll admit- when I go out for a run or a bike ride, I don't put on sunscreen like I should. <div>
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Oh, you don't either? Bet this will change your mind. <a href=""><imgsrc="https: -wpdrwtclgrk="" 282m2rppkra="" aaaaaaaabei="" lh3.googleusercontent.com="" s288="" signature.gif"="" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" t2x4mdekimi=""></imgsrc="https:></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttifkwJAg12szai0hw5Y7r34IjG7F2KxOxsOZ-56PA3gu2q_WerPjCktX-8TbO_UsTT-GlPolyVqvRkUrll-q36RPRZDOIlm8hFVdMhtxC48lnBjh2iMPEwDJpDaz2wCgreSky3OONcUn/s1600/William-McElligott-008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttifkwJAg12szai0hw5Y7r34IjG7F2KxOxsOZ-56PA3gu2q_WerPjCktX-8TbO_UsTT-GlPolyVqvRkUrll-q36RPRZDOIlm8hFVdMhtxC48lnBjh2iMPEwDJpDaz2wCgreSky3OONcUn/s1600/William-McElligott-008.jpg" /></a></div>
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This man was featured in the <a href="http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMicm1104059" target="_blank">New England Journal of Medicine </a>after doctors were amazed at the difference in either side of his face. He has been a truck driver his whole life, so the left side of his face has always been more exposed to the sun, while the right side was in the shade of his cab. I know we are always told that sun exposure always causes premature aging, yada yada yada... but this is something you can't ignore. </div>
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Now, I know tanned skin usually looks better than white skin, but smooth skin ALWAYS looks better than.... extremely undamaged skin/ prematurely aged skin/ that. So, I will no longer be bitter about the fact that I don't tan well and have to spend 15 extra minutes putting on self tanner. I will not longer be lazy about wearing sunscreen. There is just no excuse!</div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-27563116443540893812012-06-09T21:06:00.000-05:002012-06-09T21:06:44.956-05:00Food Kicks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Do you get into "kicks" where you eat the same foods over and over? I have eaten these foods pretty much every day for the last two weeks, in addition to a sandwich +/- hummus. And I'm not anywhere near tired of any of them yet!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PQnrQfh4myFObZdcKuf-gfg2VGfAHMATuTis4ZGHHqk-oEX5yb7wyQhZYGGorIIC3deUI_DMNVGmhc3w9eGSWhMRpdcYyE00Wl9mUr8yIx5Kw_AXYVn10qSLiDIf2LNsM8VER5bzui3o/s1600/20120604-treadmill-2-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><br /></span></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate Cherry Chunk Granola, Archer Farms</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iced Vanilla Coffee with Soy Milk, Homemade</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sour Grapes </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_s1Qs8Nn9CrVt47MJyieyNRaiYM4UI1eoOGKu3lm2K-RdNpqEAVOUejMTLXoONuBFVbtpTRIqg9ctORo3FXFNJHTmuQ3OH2e5VTaD00vjVH3cznpXJHNEsjLrG-NhwvmfUdhs3pcFLvel/s1600/20120609-untitled+shoot-1-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_s1Qs8Nn9CrVt47MJyieyNRaiYM4UI1eoOGKu3lm2K-RdNpqEAVOUejMTLXoONuBFVbtpTRIqg9ctORo3FXFNJHTmuQ3OH2e5VTaD00vjVH3cznpXJHNEsjLrG-NhwvmfUdhs3pcFLvel/s1600/20120609-untitled+shoot-1-Edit.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crispy Apples and Hazelnut Butter- I'm ordering this stuff in bulk. Seriously. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFGj2eDVMhk_vRF3q1PrsqasPecrbHG8yLC33hlwU2UBklfCZUPVeGlHYXGgRlaWJRHxcFq28UqpXND16eFCUV1m2s73GAmpeEWqFvlS_M31SD1I52qX2D4hdgAMHpe7ogaR8eUjKyyDN-/s1600/20120609-untitled+shoot-1-Edit-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFGj2eDVMhk_vRF3q1PrsqasPecrbHG8yLC33hlwU2UBklfCZUPVeGlHYXGgRlaWJRHxcFq28UqpXND16eFCUV1m2s73GAmpeEWqFvlS_M31SD1I52qX2D4hdgAMHpe7ogaR8eUjKyyDN-/s1600/20120609-untitled+shoot-1-Edit-2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salad-even better when you buy it on sale!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSXZtwljtLjW2n1tfnHjif1EF7a-3SyW_bypRKJs18EGIK4BEt_zIoREbRGAPV8HumWH7ydC8K60WkqD9-Ugfps8xU6h4E2I7lDkaWB1D1VoR677vapqpbYDaBx7p73aY2IcZB7opcBV6M/s1600/avocado-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSXZtwljtLjW2n1tfnHjif1EF7a-3SyW_bypRKJs18EGIK4BEt_zIoREbRGAPV8HumWH7ydC8K60WkqD9-Ugfps8xU6h4E2I7lDkaWB1D1VoR677vapqpbYDaBx7p73aY2IcZB7opcBV6M/s1600/avocado-Edit.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Avocado- my second favorite food of all time. (1st place is cereal)</td></tr>
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I've been tracking everything I eat in My Fitness Pal app on my iPhone, and checking how "healthy" foods are in the Fooducate app. Definitely makes me think twice before I eat junk!</div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-53031535860157760242012-06-08T15:00:00.000-05:002012-06-08T15:00:02.948-05:00Inspiration<div style="text-align: center;">
The Newbie Chronicles in <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/" target="_blank">Runner's World Magazine</a> is always one of my favorite articles. Probably because even though I've been running for 2 years now, I still feel like a newbie. </div>
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This month's article is about getting out the door and running. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6TH8NP18FniUZvrnloDxU4wsL8fbBaaA39H2Z74C2mujz4x9jYw8vH80obkXuPpX3gJLpyh5F7BiWJsIqiELfuTNV3dXawPNrvmBJvUiNv4sfHYcne2QZkwTWsVqSB5mQHf5mr4l0XboR/s1600/20120607-runnersworld-5-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6TH8NP18FniUZvrnloDxU4wsL8fbBaaA39H2Z74C2mujz4x9jYw8vH80obkXuPpX3gJLpyh5F7BiWJsIqiELfuTNV3dXawPNrvmBJvUiNv4sfHYcne2QZkwTWsVqSB5mQHf5mr4l0XboR/s1600/20120607-runnersworld-5-Edit.jpg" /></a></div>
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Don't you want more time on this planet? I sure do! And I definitely want to do it feeling good. </div>
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<i>Running can do that for you.</i> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY674vV_0H73ksXfzvot_ooK0ZDU7StggvBap5Z24DmOOCQAcqpHb9reSQGVeecbt9Dq3ITR5VysdkQy30byNQ4xsh04MoG41sblvY8Mq3-24ZTjdmUWdVDb0IXqkKDRLBmYMYK2uFsKVY/s1600/20120608-runnersworld-2-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY674vV_0H73ksXfzvot_ooK0ZDU7StggvBap5Z24DmOOCQAcqpHb9reSQGVeecbt9Dq3ITR5VysdkQy30byNQ4xsh04MoG41sblvY8Mq3-24ZTjdmUWdVDb0IXqkKDRLBmYMYK2uFsKVY/s1600/20120608-runnersworld-2-Edit.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>"The first person you have to inspire every day is yourself."</i> </div>
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Who am I to preach to my patients about eating healthy and exercising if I don't take care of myself? I have to get up, get my blood stream all loaded up on endorphins, and then I'm able to go and talk about how wonderful exercise is, and encourage them to take care of themselves. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5sTMQf5wzWmm9c7tSSwPj1XztbPGIM-7IgZC82Geayb7LKf9O4pyf6MJdSWO6MIylxUdX6354ZGNBe98Cehfn7DpReJLPTBtQJo37FFNWlxTGyn76YanYV6qPGLR-5JsOQlx3AyrZOO5i/s1600/20120607-runnersworld-7-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5sTMQf5wzWmm9c7tSSwPj1XztbPGIM-7IgZC82Geayb7LKf9O4pyf6MJdSWO6MIylxUdX6354ZGNBe98Cehfn7DpReJLPTBtQJo37FFNWlxTGyn76YanYV6qPGLR-5JsOQlx3AyrZOO5i/s1600/20120607-runnersworld-7-Edit.jpg" /></a></div>
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This is what I really struggle with- if I feel like I didn't have a "good run" it makes it harder to go again the next day. But it's true-<i> "It doesn't matter how (fast) you do it, it only matters that you do it." </i></div>
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And even if I didn't have a "good run" I have never, ever regretted running. </div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-44420146932854813152012-06-06T20:28:00.001-05:002012-06-06T20:35:39.608-05:00Change of Heart<div style="text-align: center;">
We celebrated National Running Day in a big, big way.... we bought a treadmill!</div>
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I have always hated treadmills. But I think I finally found one I could have a relationship with. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAojSiip79jwjTAb5hPmYq5LDxkg7sOnLMohMjkJPqrqigRFsx7H_-X30z_aIh5C3Q8JG3fi76cEM3nm2PhfV8R2MBCoxxSv1DAYVEwkVAuGQowPx2Wu70fibVQd5DYeFj3jvYYmJVgseV/s1600/20120606-treadmill-16-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAojSiip79jwjTAb5hPmYq5LDxkg7sOnLMohMjkJPqrqigRFsx7H_-X30z_aIh5C3Q8JG3fi76cEM3nm2PhfV8R2MBCoxxSv1DAYVEwkVAuGQowPx2Wu70fibVQd5DYeFj3jvYYmJVgseV/s1600/20120606-treadmill-16-Edit.jpg" /></a></div>
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Looks like true love to me!</div>
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Honestly, when we thought of an entire summer of trying to schedule our runs around the 95 degree weather and brutal humidity, we started talking about buying a treadmill. I trained for the Chicago half-marathon last year during a Memphis summer, and it was a challenge to say the least. Having an option to run inside at any time of day with air-conditioning and unlimited cold water makes this purchase totally worth it.<br />
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Just think of the advantage in winter- it gets dark at 5:00pm- but we can run anytime we want!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjhPqEjSbn3YfP9rMWBI6iAMjUwd9ap99HKMEZNuZoB1mNv4o-1e3BaSM2PFs6XLfB-ciHXe9CzxPlZkE-JlUughulkacSGpEfzAutt5pikaMyPnX7gmpveQ6lpi4vBMZmvlShaYtjZC_/s1600/20120606-treadmill-4-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjhPqEjSbn3YfP9rMWBI6iAMjUwd9ap99HKMEZNuZoB1mNv4o-1e3BaSM2PFs6XLfB-ciHXe9CzxPlZkE-JlUughulkacSGpEfzAutt5pikaMyPnX7gmpveQ6lpi4vBMZmvlShaYtjZC_/s1600/20120606-treadmill-4-Edit.jpg" /></a></div>
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Plus, I get to watch TV or movies on my iPad... I'm not sure life could get much better.</div>
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We actually got the treadmill yesterday, and my sweet husband got it all set up and ready to go by himself. I jumped straight out of bed this morning and onto this while my husband slept in the next room undisturbed. I know it's easier to run on a treadmill, but I actually ran quite a bit faster this morning than I have been running lately- and man it felt great!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfBMUZk18qFZ5QW6FvOPn3svpnGb6EqlEAcjHxcN9KtR1XQU646p5oWBqe1XwEBYSLQLyibeER6Td1EhPOYGecGsCGryyWvIQCsU0lgPGlNqvQhTK-Ey7KKAjblD2IJzrzK167sbZUgNNS/s1600/20120606-treadmill-18-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfBMUZk18qFZ5QW6FvOPn3svpnGb6EqlEAcjHxcN9KtR1XQU646p5oWBqe1XwEBYSLQLyibeER6Td1EhPOYGecGsCGryyWvIQCsU0lgPGlNqvQhTK-Ey7KKAjblD2IJzrzK167sbZUgNNS/s1600/20120606-treadmill-18-Edit.jpg" /></a></div>
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I kind of wanted to run again when I got home from work, but I decided to wait and channel that energy and excitement into tomorrows run. </div>
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Happy National Running Day to us! </div>
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And you, too. :)</div>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4868336980223191612.post-78844400502956644622012-06-04T06:00:00.000-05:002012-06-04T06:00:02.451-05:00Weekend Snapshots<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZrHIn58RA_4uhRAUj-rwDdx2BzIvZTk8yp2RpMpeOiW5zlz3Z9EaQVyNphmnEEjMCCamV54G2IiR9KoXTpkx02rqSGIffr2xFUm_Nrihuf9R4ZsUlBuBPZlRFjrIEsqQcdVNOOxpoF6M/s1600/Weekends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZrHIn58RA_4uhRAUj-rwDdx2BzIvZTk8yp2RpMpeOiW5zlz3Z9EaQVyNphmnEEjMCCamV54G2IiR9KoXTpkx02rqSGIffr2xFUm_Nrihuf9R4ZsUlBuBPZlRFjrIEsqQcdVNOOxpoF6M/s1600/Weekends.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-915hsZt4dubCpFRlp4SIFFH_pBcBuc5eV3xZpyk0RBrX9YXu8vbo2UiGiu9HIz55OEHBjrOf_ZEy40GLCp5k83HA5VDFpnMylQEUGEr00dEP1ZOV40bfIp8FUNVbQPk4x1v6rdoyimI/s1600/weekends3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-915hsZt4dubCpFRlp4SIFFH_pBcBuc5eV3xZpyk0RBrX9YXu8vbo2UiGiu9HIz55OEHBjrOf_ZEy40GLCp5k83HA5VDFpnMylQEUGEr00dEP1ZOV40bfIp8FUNVbQPk4x1v6rdoyimI/s1600/weekends3.jpg" /></a></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6nxiQwvSboMLUpFifIOUUzW3WIuUtJuNRcJ-EyNJhensjWYuFghHxKJB2dpJQsNAR3xCNzWARs64FAuPqWNkxmD6euDFQBjr373mCGC-iF9YAokj3_KtOrgIlLx_MrVxpJId-fwTfhC4A/s1600/weekends4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6nxiQwvSboMLUpFifIOUUzW3WIuUtJuNRcJ-EyNJhensjWYuFghHxKJB2dpJQsNAR3xCNzWARs64FAuPqWNkxmD6euDFQBjr373mCGC-iF9YAokj3_KtOrgIlLx_MrVxpJId-fwTfhC4A/s1600/weekends4.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href=""><imgsrc="https: -wpdrwtclgrk="" 282m2rppkra="" aaaaaaaabei="" lh3.googleusercontent.com="" s288="" signature.gif"="" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" t2x4mdekimi=""></imgsrc="https:></a>AllisonFayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15287232123291482051noreply@blogger.com3