4 tips for safer summer running

You guys! It's true - I'm finally able to run again (short distances, mind you). I wasn't sure how my running would come back...or if it would even come back...post MPFL reconstruction, but I've been so blessed with a pretty fantastic recovery. I had a great surgeon, a fantastic physical therapy team, and I worked my butt off to get back on my feet. Literally. I've been running for about a month now, and I'm loving being able to move my body again, even if it is much slower than it was before.

Summer is the best season to run, but it's also arguably the most dangerous because of the heat and the sun. I choose to look at the two as a blessing, but it definitely makes for a harder running season. I learned while training for the Chicago Marathon last year that you really need to plan your summer runs, and you definitely need to listen to your body as you train. It's easier than you'd think to get fatigued before you know it. So, here are four tips you absolutely need to know for summer running.

1 // Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

This is one I seriously can't stress enough. You might not feel like it, but chances are your body is dehydrating as you go. Every bit of sweat is more hydration that needs to be replenished. When I go on longer runs - even three miles - during the summer, I make sure to have a hydration belt. I use this one from Amphipod, and the two bottles allow me to have one full of water, and one has nuun in it, which I swear by. Also, remember that hydrating is important before, during and after your run, too.

headband: bondi band (available here) // reflective vest: champion (similar here)

2 // Opt for lighter headgear.

I'm always tempted to run with a hat because it keeps my hair out of my face. Unfortunately, I even made this mistake during the Chicago Marathon where it turned out to be 80+ degrees on race day. As nice as the shade felt on my face, it trapped a ton of excess heat, and I ended up throwing away my hat somewhere in Chinatown. These days, I swear by either a visor, or a lightweight headband like these Bondi Bands, which are amazing.

3 // Consider running earlier - or later.

Since I work from home, running is (luckily) pretty flexible for me during the day. However, that's difficult during the summer months, as those are the hottest hours. When Emily and I trained last summer, we did our long runs early in the morning. We were usually on the road running by 5 AM before those hot peak sun hours. As tempting as a few extra hours or minutes of sleep may be, you'll not only escape the heat of the day, but you'll also likely be done before most people even wake up! It's a win-win.

tank: reebok (available here) // shorts: lululemon (available here)

4 // Choose light-colored (and weight) clothing.

Guys, I like black. I like alllll shades of black - black, light black, lighter black, white ;) you name it, black and gray are my jam. However, black is not the best color to run in in the summer. Whenever possible, opt for lighter colors and lighter fabrics. Go for more sleevless cuts, and be sure to choose moisture-wicking whenever possible. These tanks from Reebok are my go-to, and Lululemon speed shorts remain my favorite.

Runners, what are some tips you use to stay cool and healthy during these hot summer months? I love adding more sanity to my repertoire!

5 tips to get started running

As my upcoming knee surgery gets closer (we're under two weeks now), I've been thinking a lot about running - and waxing nostalgic about how I got started with a sport I used to hate. I'm by no means a great runner. I don't think I'll ever be anything to write home about when it comes to running, but I love it. It's therapeutic. It's a challenge. It's something I never thought I could do, but I do it, and I love it. I've run seven half marathons to date, as well as one full marathon. And, once I've recovered from my MPFL reconstruction, I want to get right back it.

For those curious, no, running is not the reason I need knee surgery. I talked a little about it on my instagram, but this is an issue I've had for a long time. My left knee likes to subluxate and dislocate, and I've done it about 20 times in my 32 years. In December, it happened randomly, and I wasn't able to bounce back. This surgery should tighten my ligaments and kneecap back up, and I should be able to run pain-free - finally! Basically, my point is that running isn't the cause for me...it's the cure, and I can't wait to get started again. Here are five tips to starting from zero like I did (and will do again) soon.

1 // Set a goal. I like to think that being intentional helps in any regard, but especially with fitness. My first goal when I started running was to stay fit through my first pregnancy. I ran for the first 32 weeks, and it was incredible. I was out running again just three weeks after giving birth, and we set big goals. I wanted to do a half marathon, so we ran Lake Placid. It doesn't matter how big your goal is, honestly. Just set a goal. Whether it's to be fit, do five miles a week, run your first 5k, or beyond, your goal will be your driving force.

2 // Invest in proper running gear. One of the biggest mistakes I made when I got started was not investing in good gear - mainly shoes. Running is hard on the joints. However, great shoes absorb a lot of the shock, and actually protect your feet and joints from damage. I got fitted for shoes at Fleet Feet Syracuse, and I fell in love with Adidas Supernova running shoes. They fit my neutral stride, and I learned a lot about how my knees and feet track when I run. Quality athletic gear is also important. I wear a reflector vest (regardless of the time of day) from Nathan. I also invested in great headphones, and I have this hydration belt for longer runs. Buy gear and clothes that you will be comfortable in for a long time. Remember, it's an investment.

3 // Focus on time over distance. This was a hard one for me when I started. I'm an all-in kind of girl, and I wanted to start off running three miles. Some people are able to. Others, like myself, are prone to injury if they go from zero to 60 too quickly. When I started running, I ran for a certain amount of time versus a certain distance. I started with 30 minutes, and as I progressed, I was able to run further in that amount of time. Only after about a month of running 30 minutes consistently four-five days a week, did I start to focus more on distance.

4 // Choose a running app. Regardless of your goals, a running app is a great way to visually see just how far you've come through the process. Two of the most popular running apps are Strava and Nike+ Run Club. I, personally, prefer the Nike app. I like that it pauses if I have to stop my runs, and I've been using it since the beginning, so it's familiar. Both offer ways to connect with other runners, too, which is motivating. Nothing beats a sense of community.

5 // Train your brain - and your body. Your brain will tell you that running is too hard. It'll convince you that you want to stop. Here's the thing. When you first start, running is uncomfortable. For me, it was so far beyond my comfort zone that I really didn't want to do it. Teach yourself to shut off that negative voice, and convince yourself that you can and you will do it. A great way to do this is to listen to postive podcasts while running. They encourage you to get out of your own headspace. Ultimately though, remember that your body is the boss. Listen to your body. Know the difference between discomfort and pain. 

I hope that these five tips help someone get started running because I really wish I'd known more when I began. Running might not seem like a feasible goal or solution, but if you want to start, you can. It's transformed so much of my outlook on fitness, as a whole, and I've truly fallen in love with running.

Are you a runner? What are your favorite tips to give those hoping to get started?

our keto diet must-haves

I've mentioned it a before, but Ryan and I are doing a ketogenic diet challenge this month and next. I know. 60 days. What were we thinking? But seriously, for two serial dieters, it's been a really cool process to redefine fats, healthy eating, and really consuming things intentionally. I'm a foodie, and Ryan's a glutton (sorry, honey, you know it's true), so this has been a long time coming. Today. I want to round up five things that are really helping us transform and stick to the process. We're 19 days in, and I'm down 10 lbs, and Ryan's down 14, so something's working! I'm linking up today with Smidge of This for 5 on Friday and Meet at the Barre for Friday Favorites.

1 // Emulsified MCT Oil. Okay, so we've mentioned that part of the diet involves bulletproof coffee, which basically entails cutting out all sugary creamers, all the delicious syrups, and so on. For this basic white girl, that was terrifying. I fully acknowledge that I love me some overpriced, sugar-filled Starbucks drinks, so I didn't think this would work for me. For bulletproof coffee though, we use butter, coconut or MCT oil, and cinnamon to make a frothy, delicious treat. I, personally, like this emulsified MCT oil from Onnit. We use the flavored one - creamy vanilla right now - and it's delicious. It's a far cry from Starbucks, but it tastes good, and it definitely kicks it up a notch.

image via

2 // Babybel Cheeses. So, the entire premise of keto is high fat, low carbs. It goes a little deeper than that, of course, but basically, our easy go-to snack foods are out. Gone are the chips and crackers. Enter cheeses, salmon, lunch meats, etc. Like any good Dutch girl, I love cheese. Like, a lot. Babybel cheeses are the perfect addition to our lunch foods. And, though keto frowns upon snacking, when you absolutely must reach for something, these are our go-to.

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3 // Dash Rapid Egg Cooker. I can't for the life of me remember who recommended this, but it was a fellow blogger, and I am so glad I listened! Each morning, we have a medium-boiled egg, and this little beauty takes the hassle out of cooking eggs. You fill up the provided measuring cup to your desired cook, you pierce the bottom of the egg, and you let it do its work. 5-10 minutes later, you have a perfectly cooked egg waiting for you. It really doesn't get any easier.

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4 // Kerrygold. One of the hardest things about keto for me has been transforming my mindset when it comes to fats. You know how it is. We've been told for years that fats are the enemy. In keto, fats are king. Since our bodies are so reliant on carbs, our bodies produce glucose and insulin, then burn those for fuel. When it does that, our body stores the fat. With keto, we lower our intake of carbs and induce a state of ketosis. This is where our bodies product ketones, and our bodies burn fats for fuel instead. We're not starving ourselves of calories. We're removing carbs from the equation. We've started using real, quality butter in our diet, and Kerrygold is our go-to. It's cleaner, grass-fed, and tastes delicious.

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5 // The Internet. No, I'm not kidding. One of our biggest allies in this keto diet journey has been the internet. We use some fantastic sites like Ruled Me to find great keto recipes, tips, information, and more to keep us going. Some of the recipes included in our challenge have been downright awful. Truly. This site gives us great recipes, breakdowns of nutrients by portion, and offers that variety we crave. Honestly, there's a ton of information out there, so that's been super helpful.

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So, there you have it. This is what's getting us going on our keto journey. For the most part, we're loving it. We've found some healthier alternatives to our vices, and we're seeing results, which we love. I feel like I should note that we aren't making our kids do keto. We're not that crazy. We have, however, cut out a lot of their excess processed foods like sweet gummies, etc., and that seems to be going well, as a whole.

These are all my own personal recommendations. Nothing in this post is sponsored.

5 on friday: new year's favorites

It's the first Friday of 2018 - how crazy is that?! I don't know about your corners of the world, but it's downright frigid here in northern NY. The high today is -5, and I'm sorry, but that's just mean. I would love to take my children outside for a walk or to play in the snow, but it's too cold for that! Instead, Ryan and I have been scouring for activities for the boys to do inside, especially on weekends. I try to remain positive that the cold can't last forever, and I'm focusing on five good things today instead of the bitter freaking cold! I'm linking up today with Smidge of This for 5 on Friday and Meet at the Barre for Friday Favorites.

1 // Bulletproof Coffee is life. I mentioned the other day that Ryan and I are doing a 60-day ketogenic coffee, and it calls for a big ol' mug of bulletproof coffee most mornings. Now, I love a good morning cup, but I've been known to rely too heavily on sugary creamers and sweeteners. This coffee is loaded with good oils, healthy fats...and no sugar. Shockingly, it's delicious! If you want me to detail my recipe on the blog, let me know. It actually keeps me full for hours!

image via

2 // Smart Wool socks - These suckers are saving my life lately because of the bitter cold here in Black River. I'm a fan of big cushy socks like these beauties from Old Navy, but even they can't keep out the cold lately. Smart Wool has been my go-to to keep my toes toasty and warm, especially since our old home is feeling awfully drafty these days.

3 // Bloom Daily Planner - I debated which planner to get for a long time, but I went with this one because it's versatile, and I got an amazing deal here. With all the freelance work I've been doing, my job, FRG, and getting our house renter-ready, life is insanely hectic. I love that this planner gives me room to post goals and my 2018 vision, as well as track those daily tasks. Plus, they're so chic!

image via

4 // The Simply Keto cookbook is fast-becoming a favorite here for me. As we navigate the waters of this new diet, it offers awesome recipes and some insight into how we'll never feel deprived doing a ketogenic way of life. For those who didn't know, keto is basically a very low carb, high fat lifestyle, in which your body is put into a state of ketosis to burn fat for energy. We've both noticed a huge difference in the past week, and I've literally cut my coffee consumption by about 90%! How cool is that?

5 // Our fourth wedding anniversary was yesterday, and I'm so grateful to be married to this man. Through the deployments, the TDYs, the cross-country moves, navigating parenthood, homeownership, and beyond, he's been my rock through it all. Each and every adventure is more fun because of him. Gosh, I'm a lucky woman!

OH - before I forget, the sweet Andrea from Living on Cloud 9 shared a great Spread the Love gift exchange with us that I had to sign up for today. If you'd like to check it out, visit The Blended Blog here to do so.

Happy weekend, sweet friends!

how running became my therapy

It's no secret that when I started running more seriously in 2015, I had a real love/hate relationship with the sport. I grew up swimming competitively, and I convinced myself at an early age that I was incapable of running. The hatred of running and resolve that I was not able to run just festered through the years, and even when we ran for dryland in college, I was awful. Fun fact: if you convince yourself enough that you suck at something, you will suck at it.

But when I completed my NCAA eligibility, I was technically done with swimming and retired at the ripe age of 22...leaving me with a giant athletic void that I struggled to fill. Sure, I've competed at open water swimming since then, but training swimming as a working mom with children is incredibly hard, and I needed a different outlet. After having Spencer in 2014, I decided that I would try to run; but for real this time.

image courtesy of joe viger photography

We set an original goal of doing our first half marathon in 2015 - the Lake Placid Half Marathon. And, we did it. I went 2:38.10 with about half the training I probably should have done, but I was inspired. We entered our second half marathon - the Empire State Half Marathon - in October 2015, when I was 14 weeks pregnant with Porter. I dropped 28 minutes and went 2:10.17. I was hooked, but pregnancy did a number on my psyche and my fitness, and I pretty much lost it all again.

After having Porter, I decided to get down to business, and I entered the lottery for the 2017 Chicago Marathon in late 2016, and I received an entry. This past year, I finished my third and fourth half marathons (NJ Half Marathon and Lake Placid again), and I did my first marathon in October. If you ask me today if I love running, I'll heartily say yes - which is a far cry from where my running journey started.

I'm sure you've all heard that exercise releases endorphins, and it does. I love working out, but running never came easy to me, and I think that's why I've ended up loving it after all these years. Running is a physical and mental challenge. I went from being unable to run a mile to running nearly 5 times a week because I chose to, and that's made all the difference.

One of the best things about running is that anyone can do it. I know, I know...people will argue that, but it's true. Barring physical ailments, anyone can do it. You don't need a gym membership. You don't need fancy gear unless you're training seriously (and even then, it's somewhat debatable). You don't need to go anywhere except out of your door. And, better yet, you get what you give with the sport. Put the effort in, and you'll get more out of it - in spades. When I run, it's just me, my watch, and the great outdoors (or the dreadmill). I can choose to watch my pace, or I can choose to run for fun. And, I can truly say that I've never regretted a run.

I can get out there in the worst mood, bogged down by work, stressed and overwhelmed, and I can finish with a clear head, a new focus, and a peace in my heart. Moving is the answer to everything for me, and when anxiety takes its toll, running beats it right out of me. The same goes for depression. Give yourself the gift of movement, and your body will thank you tenfold. Yes, running is hard. Yes, there are a lot of days that running doesn't seem like the answer, but 99% of the time, it is - at least for me.

Have you found a sport or outlet that does this for you? I'd love to hear!

getting fit with aaptiv

You all know how much I love being active and fit, and you especially know how important it is to me that I teach my boys the value of hard work and discipline. Making sure my workouts are always included in my week is a big part of that, and as any mom knows, that's not always the easiest thing to do. Enter Aaptiv, a personal training app that's seriously redefining your fitness routine.

Aaptiv is a fitness training app that offers users high-energy audio workout classes in the comfort of your own home. With the motivation of trainers, great music and programs ranging from ab workouts to quick hit cardio and more, it has seriously upped my workout routine lately!

Most of the workouts range between 7 and 10 minutes - just enough to really get your heart pumping, your blood moving and your muscles going - all of which means you're getting a good, all-over workout. And, because these workouts are quick, there's really no excuse. We all have a few minutes here and there during our day that we can easily squeeze in a quick routine, and that really helped me on the days that I couldn't (or wouldn't) run during this deployment.

Also super exciting is the new maternity program that Aaptiv has to offer. They've recruited top-tier talent to lead the program including Kira Kohrherr of FitBump, yoga guru and author, Kristin McGee, and certified trainers to help you in both your pre- and post-natal journeys. This is huge because, should we decide to expand our family down the road, I know I want to stay fit. What better way than a workout in your own home?

What's my personal favorite workout right now, you ask? Easy. I'm obsessed with the Sweet Home Savasana yoga with Caeser B. It's just under 8 minutes long, and it's the perfect way to end a long day of work, momming and working out. When I'm going for something a little more difficult, I've found that even the full marathon training workouts are awesome - like the Race Training Interval Run. Just about 31 minutes, it gets my heart pumping, and I don't even have to pick my own playlist...perfect!

headband here 

The best part is that Aaptiv is just $9.99 a month, which is far less than a lot of costly gym memberships, and it gives you the tools (literally) right at your fingertips. But for my readers - they've generously offered up two weeks free for you to try out (and no, you don't have to enter a credit card to do so!)

To sign up and try it for yourself today, visit Aaptiv here and enter code: AAPTIV2WEEKS.

What sort of workouts do you love to do? Do you think you'd want to try something like Aaptiv?

Find Aaptiv on instagram.

This post is sponsored by Aaptiv. All opinions are my own.

the weekend that wasn't (and more)

I'm a day late and a dollar short here, but it's been a busy past few days (and weekend) here in Black River. On Friday, both my boys had little coughs, but I wasn't too concerned until the middle of the day when Spencer's teacher mentioned his cough sounded worse. So, I picked them up early from daycare, and off to Urgent Care we went. It turns out that both boys have strep throat. So, while we'd had plans to go to Whitaker Park and hike this past weekend, it just didn't happen. Instead, we had lots of cuddles and laid low. 

We did take a trip to try out our new local juice bar & yoga studio, Atman Juice Bar & Cafe, in Watertown though, and it was a hit. It's a bit pricey ($5.90 for a small smoothie), but it was totally worth every penny! The boys loved it, and you can tell the ingredients are top-notch. We shared a Bhakti Berry...divine.

On Sunday, I tackled my longest run yet with my neighbor, Emily, and we conquered 18 miles! Seriously, my previous longest run was 14 miles, so this was an adventure and a half. Honestly, my body is still pretty sore and struggling to recover, but it was a big accomplishment to finally get it done, and we've finished our last long run prior to the 18.12 Challenge! 

Yesterday was also a big day for us. Porter and I made the trek to Syracuse to PGI at Crouse Hospital to meet with his gastroenterology specialist. We've been lobbying for this referral for a long time, so to be able to sit down with a specialist and discuss Porter's problems was huge for us. While yesterday wasn't about answers, it was about next steps, and I feel confident we're getting closer. We'll be going to back to Syracuse in a couple weeks for Porter to undergo a Barium Enema test, as well as a sweat test to (hopefully) get a better idea of what we're looking at.

So, yesterday was a bit of a wash work-wise, but we're back on track today, and I have my first run back from our long run tonight - 5 miles. The days are ticking by, we're under 90 days till Ryan's homecoming, and I'm getting more and more excited for things to come. Here's to another great...and busy...week of all the things!

currently: the summer edition

^^^ Schwinn LL Bean Tricycle

I think one of the best (and worst) things about summer is just how fleeting it is, especially up here in northern NY. For all intents and purposes, this will be our last summer here at Fort Drum, and I'm a mixed bag of emotions about it. On the one hand, Ryan and I are excited to, hopefully, put roots down at our next duty station. We have our sights and hearts set on one, but the verdict is, as of yet, up in the air. If we get it though, we'll be in close proximity to a big city, which I find that my wandering heart needs, as well as a lot more culture than we have up here. 

I swore up and down that I wouldn't be that Army wife...the one who hates their station...but I've struggled with a love/hate relationship with NNY from the start. It's beautiful, but there's not a lot for kids, and this is the season of life that we're in. I want more for them. I want sports, rec centers, restaurants, museums...STUFF. I have high hopes. Please keep your fingers crossed for us! But for now, we're loving summer, and we're savoring these lazy summer days as much as possible. Currently, the Moore family is...

Loving: Trips to the Blizzard Barn. My boys certainly love their ice cream treats, and there's nothing better than watching them savor (literally) their childhood, then stripping them down and letting them run wild.

Watching: For me, I'm re-watching The Vampire Diaries. I know, I'm a sucker. Ha! See what I did there?! The boys don't watch much TV except while getting ready for bed, and when they're doing that, it's Mickey Mouse. The Moores pretty much live by Mickey Mouse these days.

Reading: Love Real Food by Kathryne Taylor of Cookie and Kate. There's something about these fresh, real recipes that just scream summer and have me excited to cook again.

Hoping: For our orders to come down soon and for them to align with our hopes and wishes. 

Savoring: The summer sun and time outside! Winters up here are fun, but they're also hard, and they last a long time. Summer days start to dwindle early here, so if we can, we're outside playing in the driveway, or the backyard, or at the park. Summer, please don't leave us yet.

Drinking: For the boys, it's chocolate shakes with rainbow sprinkles...how do you like that?! For me, it's Archer Farms Donut Shop Blend iced coffee. So good with a splash of cinnamon. It's like summer in a cup.

Attempting: To get better at photography and use my DSLR every single day. To be honest, my lens is beyond destroyed by little baby fingers, and I'm contemplating investing in a new one just to take this a step further. But...I have to fully commit.

Feeling: Excited for the last few months of this deployment. Nervous for the Chicago Marathon getting closer and closer. Happy about this time with the boys. Proud of what I've accomplished with my weight loss goals thus far. Inspired by house projects and preparing to list our house for rent.

Planning: I just barely started planning Spencer's third birthday party. Can you believe that? Yes, I'm starting early, but oh my goodness...time flies when you're having fun! I'm also planning some trips for the family in the next 6 months or so. In the works - a potential cruise and a trip to South Africa! The last time I went, I wasn't married, I didn't have children, and I still blogged over at my old book blog, i swim for oceans...crazy, right?

thursday thoughts

I've been making a conscious effort lately to blog, even when the blogging slump is real. Please tell me I'm not the only one who really actually wants to blog, but is fairly certain nobody wants to read it?! Regardless, I wanted to get some thoughts down because I swear the days are flying now, and we're full-speed ahead with our summer happenings. 

// Porter has been doing this grinch smile, snarly face thing lately when he's super happy, and it's one of the funniest things I've ever seen. He has four teeth now, so he looks like such a goon, and it makes me so happy to be able to send these pictures to Ryan overseas. See exhibit A:

// I've discovered if I write my to-do list down every morning for both work and housework, I get so much more done. I find myself getting flustered before I do it because making long mental lists is basically not going to happen these days. I find it super cathartic to cross things off daily.

// I'm becoming braver as a mother. I remember when Spencer was little, we lived our lives routinely around nap time. If something fell too close, we couldn't do it. Now, I'm a lot more willing to stretch the bounds. Yes, there are meltdowns with missed naps, but sometimes a 45 minute nap in the car after a day at the beach is totally worth it.

// I'm getting antsy waiting for our PCS orders. We're waiting anyway since Ryan dropped his packet for a specific unit, but so many of our friends in the company know where they're going, and I'm jealous! I'll miss Black River, our home, neighbors and daycare, but I'm not so sure I'll miss Watertown or Fort Drum.

// Running is going well! I'm a huge head case, and it's one of the hardest things I have to deal with, honestly. When I think too much about the fact that I have a 15-mile run to do on Saturday morning, I psych myself out. I need to remember to celebrate finish lines, not finish times. I'm never going to be the fastest runner, but damn it...I'm going to run!

// I've discovered that I'm stronger than I thought I was going into this deployment. Ryan is my rock, and he's the missing piece to this family, but I've learned a lot about us, what makes me tick, what makes our marriage work, and it's actually been good for us.

// Budgeting is a dirty word right now, and it's frustrating. Every time I turn around, something new is breaking, or it's on the fritz. I'm working to be patient and remembering to do the baby steps above all else. The plus side? We never ever touch credit cards, and we haven't dipped into our savings at all :)

I could keep writing my endless musings, but those are the biggest thoughts swirling around today, and it feels good to get them down in words! Deployment is a journey, but it's one that can be truly transformative if you let it be, and I'm determined to do so.

running wrap-up: june

June was definitely a better running month for me than May. It still wasn't particularly my best, but I got more miles in, I was actually finding a rhythm for a change - despite the fact that several of our long runs were rained out. I also got my second half marathon of the year done in Lake Placid, and I saw some significant gains in speed and stamina. I have a long way to go, but I'm pleased that at least things are moving in the right direction. 

We tackled a long run this past Sunday, just into July, and this month is sure to be a huge mileage-building month for us - starting with a 15-miler on Saturday before I head home. We'll be averaging about 30+ miles a week in July, so here's hoping we can only go up from here.

Here are some of my June stats for my records:

Longest run: 13.26 miles

Shortest run: 2 miles

Fastest pace: 8:57

Slowest pace: 11:26

Miles this month: 59.64

Miles this year: 274.17

I did about 20 more miles this month than last month, and I did my fastest 5k thus far this year. My long run speed isn't there yet, but I'm working to get the miles more than I am working to get the speed right now. It's kind of a constant mental battle to convince myself that the latter is most important. So, here's to a great month in July! Fellow runners - how did you do?

running wrap-up: may

After my great running month in April, I was really excited for a repeat in May, but I found myself struggling, yet again, to find the amount of time to train that I needed. Porter's hospitalization and subsequent sicknesses have kept me down a little bit, but I persisted, and I actually did better than I thought I was going to halfway through the month.

We tackled our first long training run last weekend - 2 hours - and I was pretty impressed with how well I did, overall. Emily and I got up at 4:30 to knock it out before the kids woke up (which didn't work because Lindsey and Porter were both up at 5 am), but we did well, and it was great to finish the run early and be done for the day. 

Here are some of my May stats for my records:

Longest run: 11.11 miles

Shortest run: 2 miles

Fastest pace: 9:00

Slowest pace: 11:04

Miles this month: 38.03

Miles this year: 214.55

While it wasn't my best month, it was definitely better than the first few months of the year. Plus side? I also feel like I'm able to actually hold a pace for much longer now - regardless of how slow that pace may be. My next race is next weekend in Lake Placid on the 11th, and I'm interested to see how my time compares to the last time I did that race back in 2015. I did get fitted for new running shoes last weekend in Syracuse at Fleet Feet, and I was excited to test them out, and love them, this past week. I was a loyal Mizuno runner until they discontinued my Sayonara 2s. I'm now in an Adidas Supernova, and I love it.

June should be a huge month for me in terms of mileage and training, as my focus turns to 18.12 and Chicago in October. Both races are going to be a huge challenge and test of my mental strength, stamina and endurance, so here's to continuing great training! Fellow runners - how did you do?

running wrap-up: march

March was another tricky running month for me. Between Porter getting kicked out of daycare, the DONSAs on post and Danny's recovery, I was lucky I found any time at all, really, to run. That said, I'm excited that I've really turned a corner because my first race is coming up at the end of this month. I'm running the NJ Half Marathon on Sunday, April 30th by the shore. It's a flat course, and I'm hopeful for a great run! 

Despite all the challenges, I managed to start kicking things into gear at the end of the month, which made for a great start to April. In March, I managed to get a disappointing 9 runs, but it was still a month of a tiny bit of volume, so it's better than nothing.

Here are some of my March stats for my records:

Longest run: 5 miles

Shortest run: 1 mile

Fastest pace: 8:40

Slowest pace: 11:26

Miles this month: 28.84

Miles this year: 114.8

My neighbor, Emily, and I made the decision to sign up for the Lake Placid half marathon on June 11th, so that's another race to train for this year. I've done it before, and the course is absolutely beautiful - but really hard! We booked a nice hotel room in town this time, so we'll be prepared for a great race. Also, it's April 4th, and I've already done 2 runs this month, so I think we're cooking with gas. Fellow runners...how did you do?

5 on friday: currently loving

We've made it through another week, friends! I swear that time has been flying lately, mostly because I'm wishing the lonely nights away, I'm sure. And the fact that I'm craving spring like crazy definitely makes time fly, too. It's time for another Friday 5 because life has been sweeter lately - crazy, but oh-so-sweet. Today, I'm linking up with Meet at the Barre and Smidge of This for Friday Favorites & 5 on Friday!

1. Weight loss progress! I finished my first 30 days with The Babe Campaign and Isagenix, and I released 12.1 lbs and a grand total of 8 inches. Most importantly, I'm feeling more alive, and I'm looking forward to continuing this journey. This, plus Weight Watchers has been hugely transformative for me.

2. Porter turned 9 months old yesterday! This little barnacle is adorable and wonderful, but this stage has been very trying. He has a lot of separation anxiety, and sadly, his daycare provider dropped him because of it. He'll be starting at a new one in May, and I'm hopeful that I'll be able to manage work, working out and life with him home in the interim.

3. This shirt. Seriously...is anything more honest than this? My friend Stephanie gifted it to me, and I just love it! You can get yours here.

4. BBG...I've been looking for a workout routine for at home, in addition to my marathon training schedule. I need something that will make it possible to get a good workout in by myself on a daily basis, and I think that this is just the ticket. Have you tried it?

^^^ image via

5. No picture for this one, but I love being able to read my husband's blog during his deployment. It makes me feel a lot closer to him because it's like a stream of consciousness. I think that, as hard as this deployment is, it's going to be really good for us. This will teach us that we can weather anything, and for that, I'm so grateful. Honey, I know you're reading this...you're my hero, and I love you.

running wrap-up: february

February was a rough month for me. Between Ryan being deployed, both boys getting sick, Danny getting hit by a car and getting walking pneumonia, I pretty much covered every excuse in the book to not run. I'm working hard, however, to push through the excuses and get my body moving every day - no matter what. It's so easy to make excuses, however reasonable they might be, but it takes serious discipline to demand excellence of yourself, and that's what I'm really working on right now. 

I managed to get 12 runs in this past month, as opposed to the 15 I did last month. I also did worse in terms of mileage, but I'm going to use February as my jumping-off point to get motivated to do better in March. I've also been working to revamp my diet with Isagenix, so I'm definitely seeing a lot of progress since making that transition, as well.

Here are some of my February running stats for my records:

Longest run: 4.75 miles

Shortest run: 1 mile

Fastest pace: 8:48

Slowest pace: 10:03

Total miles this month: 32.78

I'm on the fence about doing the half marathon at Old Orchard beach at the end of this month. I'll be really pushing it to be ready in time, and it might be more prudent to find a 5k or 10k to get better prepared before then. I do have a half marathon at the end of April, so that might need to be my focus for a while. So, here's to another great month of running!

i'm fitness in my schedule

I read my husband's blog post today regarding ownership, and it really resonated with me. While I'm feeling a lot better, no longer sick and really getting my act together, I'd be lying if I said that I didn't have days when going on a run sounded awful, or folding another load of lightly stained toddler clothes sounded fun. The fact of the matter is that this is the life I've chosen, and it's the life that I'm so blessed to have.

When Ryan deployed, I set some big goals for myself. One of the biggest ones was to find myself again. I want to get my body back, feel good doing it and truly love the process. I discovered two summers ago that I absolutely love running, and I got bit by the race bug. I signed up for a bunch of races this year all because of that, and I'm so excited to see how I do.

I think one of the biggest challenges I've faced since having two children has been the loss of my own identity. When I started losing weight after Spencer was born, and I found that joy in running, I really started to find myself again. Then, when I got pregnant with Porter, I felt like I was second again. Don't get me wrong. As a mother, I will always put my children first, but if there's only one thing I've learned in the past two and a half years, it's that mothers can't always come second.

And so, I decided to join The Babe Campaign. I decided to stick with Weight Watchers for accountability and portioning. I decided to work with a friend here and put together a running club at Fort Drum. I've decided to let my little shop come second for a while because priorities matter - and so do I. Most of all, I've decided to surround myself with positivity and a tribe of go-getters keen on helping me reach my goals. 

What goals do you want to accomplish? I'm thinking of making this a weekly link up for fitness, health, wellness and goals, since that's going to be a big focus of mine. Thoughts?

running the year

2017 is going to be a year of changes for the Moore family - and for me - and I'm choosing to look at it with a full heart, open mind and excitement. This is my year to get back to me, and I'm so excited to really buckle down and run the year, and this deployment, out. A friend of mine introduced me to something last year called Run the Year, and I've decided to do it this year...I'm going Run the Year 2017. That, my friends, means I'm hoping to run 2,017 miles in 2017. That means, technically, I need to run 5.5 miles a day, which I'm nowhere near right now.

However, I'm getting there. I'm running 4 times a week now, just for time, but I'm getting an average of 3 miles in a run, and it feels hard great.

The weather right now is nuts. One day it's hovering around 17 degrees, then you have a day like today, where it's a practically balmy 39 degrees. I'm working to embrace the changes though, and I'm doing my best to do my runs outside and learning to train in varying conditions. Running is half mental, half physical for me. I love it, but while I'm doing it, I hate it...at least until I get in proper shape.

^^^ image via

With the Chicago Marathon firmly in my mind for October 8, 2017, I know that every mile, every day and every single step counts. And, most importantly, I'm doing this for me. I love my boys more than life itself, but it's so important for a mama to take care of and love herself, as well.

I'm really excited to chronicle my running journey because I want everyone to know that anyonecan do it. Right now, I'm about 35 lbs heavier than I want to be. I was a competitive swimmer who swore up and down that she'd never be a runner. I have two kids, a husband that's deploying, and I live in the frozen tundra of Fort Drum.

But, I can do it.

And, truly, if I can do it, anyone can. I'd love to see if anyone wants to join me in running the year, staying accountable and, perhaps, joining a running group either on Facebook or Strava, simply for moral support, tips, advice, camaraderie and more. Runners, wanna-bes, friends...everyone is welcome! Who wants to join me?!

*I'm linking up today with Jessi for What's Hap-Pinning Wednesday!

...according to instagram

I've been meaning to post a lot of things lately, but I'm soaking up the last few weeks before Ryan deploys. Nevertheless, my photo haul continues to grow, so I figured I'd show, rather than tell, a little of our lives lately.  We've been spending many days snowed in, and when we're not snowed in, our days are busy with packing, running, trips to the Sensory Nook and cramming in quality family time.

I've been doing pretty well with my running, and I'm excited to keep it up! Danny has turned out to be literally the perfect running buddy, and she does better running with me than she does simply walking on a leash. Let's just call it the best of both worlds. Porter is now 7 months old (what?!?!), and Spencer is talking up a storm, so things are crazier than ever as Ryan prepares to head off around the world. Life is oh-so sweet.

I promise you a better post soon, but for now, here's our life lately...according to instagram...

snippets and snapshots

Summer is winding down, and having two littles this year makes me anxious for fall and cooler weather. This summer has been brutal. I can deal with heat, but heat plus humidity has been hard. Spencer overheats easily, and Porter gets heat rash in the humidity, so it's been hard to have them outside, despite wanting them to be. Lately though, it's been hot but had a nice breeze, so we've had a bit more desire to enjoy the sunshine. And yes, Mr. Judgey-Pants down there is doing very well working in the Bumbo.

I've also been taking advantage of the weather to run a bit more. Running (and swimming) are my happy places, and being able to escape and get a quick workout in has been really helping me A) get rid of this mombod and B) clear my head of all the stressors and upheaval we've dealt with lately.

Spencer has been into everything lately, which is both awesome and terrifying. He's learning how everything works, and what he doesn't yet know, he's on the brink of discovering. I have a love/hate relationship with it. I love having him come into the kitchen to sample the food before it's served. I love how curious he is about ingredients and how things work. Like that acorn squash…he needed to nibble on it a few times to deem it worthy of dinner.

He's become an avid "reader," too, which makes me so happy! Every night, Ryan reads him a bedtime story, and every morning, we read a book when he gets up. Once we get his toddler room in a row, I'm hoping to have all his books lined up and easily accessible for him. You see, our house isn't huge. We knew we'd outgrow it by the time we had to PCS, so Spencer will be moving to our guest room soon, and Porter will join him soon after. The boys will share a room, and I'm thinking a nautical nursery is in order…but more on that later.

I'm trying my best to take more pictures lately though, so I'm hoping to do a post like this for posterity every now and again, if only to remember the little things. These boys are growing up so fast, and I don't want to forget this time!

this season

No, my friends, I haven't fallen off the face of the Earth. I'm still here, trucking away. I've been thinking about what to blog this past week or so, and I felt like a lot of what I wanted to post was a half-truth or a partial hypocrisy. That sounds worse than it actually is, but I figured this evening, what the heck? It's my blog, I'm just going to go ahead and post about this season.

This season of my life feels very trying right now. I have the most fantastic family. I have the sweetest baby boy and a perfect little bean that's half-baked and growing so well. And yet, I've been struggling a lot lately with my changing body. As you might remember, I worked really hard after having Spencer to lose the weight and feel better about myself again. I was getting there, and I felt amazing. I knew that I would have to gain, but watching the pounds pack back on again has been harder than I thought.

Now, I'm not ungrateful at all. I'm gaining weight for the most important reason of all. I'm growing a life, and I know it's going to be so worth it! But that doesn't diminish the feelings of inadequacy creeping back in, and putting bigger clothes on daily has been a struggle. To be honest, not even my gym clothes fit well anymore at 20+ weeks…and that, plus the fact that running is getting harder and harder has been a major hit to my psyche.

And yet, I'm grateful, too. I know that this season is fleeting, and I need to enjoy it for what it is. I think that, as a mother, I haven't quite learned the selflessness that some mothers have yet. Perhaps it comes with time, but for now, I'm just working to learn to love myself - no matter what size at this point. This season won't last forever, and I'm going to work hard to enjoy it for what it is.