Wine Does You Good!

Somehow I managed to make friends with several girls who live on the West Side. I decided that I wanted to connect them, so I planned a happy hour in Santa Monica last night. It ended up being a blast and worth the drive from downtown. Sometimes you need girl talk, wine and pizza! Of course, I topped off the night with a trip to TCBY (hello, where have you been all of my life?). Frozen yogurt with candy toppings...yes please! When I finally got home I still had to put together a playlist for tonight's class. For some reason I had a hard time focusing (I'm sure it had nothing to do with the vino!), but I ended up throwing together an hour's worth of music. The playlist turned out to be pretty decent (see below) and I think people got a good workout. Maybe some red wine does you good?

Fine Without You - Armin van Buuren feat. Jennifer Rene

Working for the Weekend - Loverboy (I wanted everyone to get fired up for the weekend!)

Spaceman - The Killers (Heard this in the car on the way to HH and remembered how much I like this song)

Last Night - The Strokes (Request from Wednesday's class)

Winner - Justin Timberlake & T.I.

Closer Remix - Neyo - Closer Rem

Every Word - Ercola ft. Daniella

The Catalyst (Random Lyrics Club Remix) - Linkin Park

Only Girl (In The World) - Rihanna

My Feelings for You - Avicii & Sebastien Drums

We're Not Gonna Take It - Twisted Sisters

Music Is Pumping (Alex K Mix) - Porn Kings & Flip & Fill

Club Can't Handle Me - Flo Rida (feat. David Guetta)

I'm Like A Bird - Nelly Furtado

One Thing - Finger Eleven

Stretched Too Thin?

I committed to being in two places at the same time on the same night. Ugghhhh! It's exciting that I've found enough ways to get involved out here in LA, but clearly I need a better calendaring system to track everything that is going on. I love my iPhone and don't know how I survived without it, but I can't stand the calendar on the iPhone. I miss my Blackberry calendar like crazy. It would sync with my work calendar and the only negative would be the reminders ringing through the evening or weekend. Now, I am trying to keep a paper calendar and a calendar on Outlook at work. By my latest goof up, you can see how well this system is working and now, I have to figure out a way to undo my commitment to something. This situation coupled with all of the other things I have going on (intense training for two more half marathons, teaching two spinning classes per week, projects in preparation for the upcoming training class at work, taking on more coaching at work because it's a way for me to make the impact I want to make at work, advisor duties with ADPi, trying to start a networking group and being a puppy mom) put me over the edge. Maybe it's not a calendar issue, but a stretched too thin issue?

On my walk home from the office to feed my dogs (I really miss Joe when he is traveling because he takes care of our buddies on Wednesday nights before my spin class) I felt overwhelmed and in need of a break. All I wanted to do was crawl into my bed, read (another things I am trying to do more of to acquire more knowledge) disgusting and take a nap. I was grumpy and agitated. I even yelled at the gross man peeing outside for being while I was walking my dogs. (Might not have been the smartest confrontation!). I grudgingly headed to the gym to teach my class.

My entire demeanor changed when I walked into the cycle room. Some of my favorite people were taking the class and all of the bikes were full. As soon as the music started my bad mood started to lift. By the time class was over, I almost forgot why I was so agitated to begin with. The benefits of exercise are numerous. Not only does it keep you healthy and into this season's leggings, it de-stresses you and puts you in a better mood. Tonight's class reminded me that I am here to make an impact. In order to make an impact, I am going to be involved in a lot of things. I want to serve the community, help mentor and shape the sorority experience for the women of ADPi, work out like a crazy woman and strive to hit new goals and take on more at work. I like being busy and giving back. Sure there will be times (like today) where I feel stretched way too thin, but I know I'll bounce back to my positive self and be thankful for all of the opportunities I have. Now I just need to figure out a way to stretch the hours in day.

Here is my mood uplifting play list.

Beachball (Myon & Shane 54 Remix) - Nalin & Kane

Bodyrock - Moby

Give It 2 Me (Paul Oakenfold Remix Edit) - Madonna

Now You See It - Honerebel feat Pit Bull & Jump Smokers

Run This Town - Group Cycling Volume 11

Memories (Featuring Kid Cudi) - David Guetta

I Like That - Richard Vission

Wonder - Dj Tiesto & Armin Van Buuren

One Night In Bangkok (Vinylshakerz Screen Cut) - Vinylshakerz

Greenlight (Freemasons Remix) - Beyonce

Lifter (Original Mix) - Alex Kunnari

Show Me Love (Club Mix) - Michael Mind

If We Ever (Featuring Makeba) - David Guetta

Stay - Radius

WIN BIG

A while ago I was having lunch with my boss and we were talking about success and getting ahead. He told me that I can't keep doing the same things and expect to get different results. Around the same time I was reading the book The Success Principles by Jack Canfield (seriously inspiring!) and thought about creating a networking group. I did a lot of networking in STL for my job and because it was easy to do in the city. I enjoyed networking and meeting new people. (I met my amazing wedding photographer at a networking event.) I missed meeting new people and making connections here in LA. It was getting old just working out and going to work. I researched networking groups in downtown LA and didn't come across any that interested me or worked with my schedule. (Wednesdays are spin class nights!) I decided to create my own group to meet my needs.

It took me a while to execute on my vision. I described my vision to my study group at work and got the feedback that it is better to have a few good quality relationships rather than a bunch of people you'll never contact. My group encouraged me to build some strong relationships and not bother with the hassle of organizing an ongoing networking group. Despite their advice, deep down inside I knew I wanted to try to start a group. One day I was walking my dogs and it hit me. Create a networking group for women in downtown LA. I am very interested in women in business and want to meet more women professionals who are focused on success. Targeting a specific group of people in a specific place seemed much more doable than just creating a networking event.

I came up with the group name WIN BIG. WIN BIG stands for Women Into Networking for Bigger Impact and Growth. WIN BIG connects women focused on success in downtown LA. The women of WIN BIG want to impact their lives, careers and businesses. I created a Facebook page, twitter account and email address. I designed a logo (very simple and was created in word, definitely room to upgrade) and started to promote the event. I was hoping to get about 30 women at the first event.

I chose a trendy Mexican restaurant as the venue for the first event. I know the manager and Joe and I patronize the venue all of the time. (It's all about who you know!). I made name-tags, sign-up sheets and name-tents for the tables at the venue. Just a few women showed up, but they ended up being the right women. One of the women who attended the event even said she was interested in quality relationships. (Maybe my study group was onto something after all!). Even though I did not meet my attendance goal, I left the event feeling happy. The group decided they would like to have an event in October and we discussed strategies to increase attendance. (More personal invites are a must!). I created this group to help other women WIN BIG, but it turns out that I won big tonight. I got some great support from colleagues and reconnected with someone from college. It might have been a small group, but it was a good group. I think it is important to have a strong foundation. WIN BIG officially started and I am looking forward to the group growing, but more importantly to building quality relationships.

Half Marathon Play List

A friend mentioned that she looked at my blog for play lists. I promised her I would post more of my play lists and song ideas for working out. Since I just wrote about the Disneyland Half, I thought I would share my half marathon play list. Below you'll find enough fist pumping, beat bumping and hard rocking music to carry you 13.1 miles.

Start Me Up - The Rolling Stones (I always start a long race with this song. I first heard it playing over the loud speakers before the 2006 Lewis & Clark Half Marathon.)

Changes (dirty south remix) - Chris Lake (The first techno song I liked. Reminds me of a great night out with our friends from Tampa and of all the changes I've made in my life.)

You Are My Diamond (Feat. Kianna) - Tiesto (We named our dog Tiesto!)

White Horse (Whelan & Di Scala Club Mix) - Sarah Mcleod

Pjanoo (Radio Edit) - Eric Prydz ft Pryda

Hotel California 2k10 (N-H Project Impact Radio Remix) - The Eagles

Addicted Radio Mix - The Camel Rider & Mark Alston Featuring Mark Shine

Pig - Dave Matthews Band (My absolute favorite DMB song. I put the live version from The Gorge because it is long enough to help you zone out for almost a mile.)

Maybe Tomorrow (Christopher S & Mike Candys Remix) - Jaybee feat Deshayla

Ghosts N Stuff - Deadmau5 Ft Rob Swire

Sweet Child O' Mine - Guns N' Roses (My running rule...no stopping when Guns N' Roses is playing! This song reminds me of my dad and riding in the Moonlight Ramble.)

Got the Life - Korn

Otherside (Benny Benassi Remix) - Red Hot Chili Peppers

One (Spencer & Hill Bootleg) - Swedish House Mafia VS Pharell

Louisiana Bayou - Dave Matthews (Joe loves this song. Made me think of him and how grateful I am to have a husband fabulous enough to wake up at 3:45am to drive me to the race.)

Alone Tonight (Original Mix) - Above & Beyond

Lake Shore Drive - Aliotta, Haynes, and Jeremiah (Team Daddy/Daughter's Chicago Marathon song. Came on as I was exiting Angels Stadium.)

Lifter (Original Mix) - Alex Kunnari (Love this song! Serious fist pumping!)

Night Ripper Tracks - Girl Talk (Almost there. Time to pick up the pace.)

Set You Free 2k9 (Spencer & Hill Remix) - N-Trance (I ended up skipping this song to end the race on the next song.)

Paradise City - Guns N' Roses (My favorite Guns N' Roses song. Really fires me up and helped me finish running a 7:30 mile)

Breath In, Breath Out - Ali Ft/ St. Lunatics (I added a couple of extra songs just in case I didn't finish under 2 hours.)

Soul Heaven (Fonzerelli Remix) - Henrik B Feat. Terri B (We named our other dog Fonzerelli!)

Enjoy! I hope some of these songs help motivate you through your next workout.

Disneyland...A Magical Experience

I have wanted to run a half marathon (13.1 miles) under two hours for a couple of years. I was always interested in achieving this goal, but never truly committed until this year. Something changed in me after registering for the Disneyland half. Disneyland became the run where I would set a PR and accomplish my time goal. I followed Hal Higdon's intermediate plan, bought new running accessories (shocking I know) and actually ran for time instead of for fun. I spent many Sunday afternoons running circles around Silverlake and made training my weekend focus instead of going out to the clubs. As a result, I had a magical experience during the Disneyland half and achieved my goal!

The alarm clock rang at 3:45am. I didn't sleep much the night before the run. Nerves, excitement and the anticipation of waking up before 4:00am caused a restless night. Joe took one for the team and offered to drive my dad and me to the event. (I'm sure Joe thought this would be a good idea after a few drinks one night and was regretting his offer the morning of the run!). There always seems to be traffic in LA, but surprisingly not many people were on the road the morning of the run. (I'm sure most sane people were tuckered out in their comfortable beds. Runners are not sane!). Joe dropped us off and my dad and I had an hour to kill before the 6:00am start. We found some clean restrooms inside a hotel (port-a-potties are the worst!) and made our way to the start corral. We scored with a place in the A corral. (I have no idea how this happened, but thanks!). The event drew nearly 15,000 participants, so it was incredible to start in the first group.

The 10 minutes before the race start felt like an eternity. I made sure my Garmin was picking up satellite connect several times, checked my play list, made sure my shoes were tied, thought about going to the bathroom and tried to visualize myself crossing the finish line under 2 hours. Finally, the gun went off and it was time to race!

Being in the A corral meant I was surrounded by fast runners. Yikes! I clocked my first mile around 8:30. (I needed to do 9:09 to come in at 1:59:59). I thought I am starting out to fast. I tried to slow my pace a bit, but running through the park was exciting. I loved the first 3 miles of the run. We ran through California Adventure and through Disneyland Park. The characters were out in full costume. I was having a blast. My dad was running ahead of me but waited outside the princess castle so we could run through it together. We ran past Space Mountain (my favorite ride) and memories of our evening at Disney with my sister flashed through my mind. My dad patted me on the back, spoke words of encouragement and fell back letting me race ahead. I came out of the park alone without my running partner (Team Daddy/Daughter!) and faced a hill around mile 4. Pig, my absolute favorite Dave Matthew Band song, blared through my iPod (I only run to this song in distance races. It's one of my weird running rituals) and I zoned out. Mile 5 was tough and negative thoughts started to flood my mind. (I took off too fast. I have a long way to go! I am tired. Can I do this?) As I was approaching mile 6 I saw port-a-potties and decided I better stop. (I stopped at mile 6 during both Chicago Marathons and during the Long Beach half, so my mind must associate mile 6 with a bathroom break.) I emerged from the gross port-a-potties full of germs and full of desire to make up the minute I just lost. After the break, my I refocused my mind of conquering the event. (I know distance running is mind over matter!). I repeated my affirmation (I am conquering the Disneyland Half under 2 hours and I feel ecstatic. I have never been stronger or faster. I've got this bitch!) and put one foot in front of another. Running into Angels stadium was incredible. There were tons of boy scouts standing outside the stadium cheering us on. The energy was fierce. Running through Angels stadium was incredible. I was on the jumbo-tron for a brief second (I felt famous). I knew I only had to run a 5k when I came out of Angeles Stadium. (It's all about breaking down the long distance into manageable distances I've run many times before). I checked my time, did some math in my head (surely this took a mile to figure out my time since math is not my strongest subject) and realized that I could make my goal. In fact, I could even slow down my pace and still reach my goal. The end of the race was kind of a blur. I remember pushing as hard as I could and picking up my pace. As I approached the finish line I made it my job to pass a man carrying a big yellow flag. I wanted to run fast and strong because I knew my husband was in the stands. I saw the clock and the 1 in the hour column and made one final push. Done! 1:55:41. I finished the race running a 7:30 minute mile. My fastest mile was my last mile. Incredible! (I need to start pushing myself earlier in the races. Note to self...more speed work!). I did it. I reached my goal and set a PR. It was magical when the race announcer started the countdown of those last few precious seconds for runners to cross the finish line under 2 hours. I already had a bottle of water in my hand, took my finishers photo and started stretching. My first real thought after finishing...I'm ready to sign up for next year. Maybe next year, I'll run for fun and stop to take pics along the way. But, something tells me I'll push for another PR. (I bet I'll cherish having a better time more than a picture with Minnie Mouse). I think it's safe to say I'm a runner and I'm a competitor.

There's A Difference Between Interest & Commitment

I love the saying, there's a difference between interest and commitment. When you are interested in something you do it only when it's convenient, but when you are committed to something you accept no excuses only results! I think about running and training for the Disney half marathon (which is next week!!). I am committed to training. I have run up to 11 miles and have pulled my aching body out of bed at 5:30am to pound out speed-work on the treadmill. On one of my long runs I thought it would be a good idea to give up sweets to purify my body before the half. Clearly, I was only interested in this idea. I failed terribly!

I bought Ben & Jerry's for my last binge on ice cream a few weeks ago before giving it up. I ate my Ben & Jerry's and managed to polish off Joe's container of ice cream. Last weekend we had visitors in town and ordered dessert at one of our favorite restaurants in downtown LA. I managed to resist the macaroons when the waiter first delivered them on the table, but chocolate souffle and gelato...no way. I decided I was merely interested, indulged in the amazing dessert and ate the macaroons too. I also had to take our guests to Pinkberry. I would have been an awful host to deny them the delicious fro-yo treat because I was committed to not eating sweets. I swore to myself I would start fresh and commit to the idea of no sweets this week. I took a cooking class Thursday and we made a walnut cake with raspberry whip cream. How do I not eat something I helped create?

So here I am a week away from the half marathon wondering if my failed commitment to giving up sweets will impact my results. I'm hoping that my commitment to following my training plan outweighs my interest in giving up sweets. After all of my hard work and running, don't I deserve a treat anyways?

Out For Revenge

I woke up this morning facing a 10-mile training run. I knew it was coming and I was prepared. I ate pasta for dinner, stayed in (on a Saturday night!) and slept a lot. I ran a great 5-miles yesterday slightly below my half marathon pace, so I should have had all the confidence in the world today. I didn't. I was nervous about the 10-miler. The trail stole something from me last weekend around mile 8 when I had to stop running and walk 4 minutes. The trail stole some of my confidence and pride.

I gathered up all of my running accessories (fuel belt, water bottle, Gatorade bottle, packet of Gu, Garmin, knee band and ipod...high maintenance!), laced up my new running shoes (I even thought about not wearing the new ones to keep them from getting dirty) and headed to my car. I didn't even get out of the parking garage before having to go to the bathroom again (nerves!). The 15 minute drive to Silverlake turned into a battle in my mind. 10-miles is so long, but you have run full marathons before. It's almost 1:00pm the same time you went out and failed last weekend, this day is different I have Gu to keep me energized. What will you think about for 10 miles, I made a great playlist. Self-defeating thoughts and positive thoughts went back and forth in my mind. Finally, I arrived at my destination (miraculously since my mind was not focused on driving parked my car. Without thinking I hopped out, strapped on all of my gear, turned on the Garmin and made my way to the trail. I hit the start timer button on my watch and eased into a slow jog. I analyzed last weekend's long run over and over again. I think there are 2 reasons why I had to stop running and walk...I paced too quickly and didn't fuel up properly. I knew the Vanilla Bean Gu pinned to my shorts would solve my fuel issue and so I decided to start out SLOW for this run. Today's goal was distance not speed.

The first mile blew by and I clocked around 9:45. Way too slow for my half marathon goal. The competitor in me wanted to speed up, but I knew that today distance would outweigh speed. Not only did I need to log the long miles for training, but I was out seeking revenge. I resisted my desire to pick up and pace and instead focused on remaining strong for that 8 mile point where I walked last week. Today, I was going to kill that hill that defeated me last week. I kept thinking revenge, revenge, revenge. Somewhere along the way my doubts faded and my confidence rose. I decided that after the 3rd lap around the trail I would change directions and run the other way so I could face the hill I failed last week. Around 7 miles in I unpinned my Gu and of course dropped the packet on the trail. Ewww gross, it touched the dirt ground. Oh well, I knew I would need the fuel for revenge. I picked up the packet (thought to myself that it's a good thing I'm not in a race), tore of the top and enjoyed the deliciousness. (I might be crazy, but I love the taste of Vanilla Bean Gu!) I rocked out to techno, grooved to Dave Matthews and thought about giving up sugar and sweets from now until the half (sometimes your mind goes a little crazy on long runs) and before I knew it, I was at the hill. I took a deep breath, said to myself "I got this bitch!" and powered my way to the top. Revenge, oh sweet revenge. My confidence soared, legs felt strong and I felt relieved to know that I still had it as a runner. I could go the distance.

I set out for my last mile and allowed myself to pick up the pace. I clocked under a 9:00 minute mile. That's more like it. I came up with the theory that I'll run my pace time on race day because of the confidence I have from my long training runs, excitement from the race crowd and sheer determination to come in under 2 hours. I just know that I'll be able to combine speed and distance when I need to perform. Today was all about slow and steady wins the race. I felt like a winner when I hit mile 10 and decided to keep going because my car was parked on the other side of the trail. Even though I logged my distance needed for training, I wasn't walking. 11 miles later I got in my car and drove away feeling like I conquered the world. When it comes to running, it is all about mind over matter!

My Love for Accessories

I love accessories! I have necklaces draped on french bulletin boards in my closet, a drawer full of earrings and bracelets and a closet for my purses (yes, I have a space dedicated to my purses. It's fabulous! Totes on one shelf, clutches on another.). I have about 15 belts that just hang limply in the closet longing for me to wear them once again. (I went through a phase where I belted just about every top I wore.) I couldn't leave a store without browsing through the accessory section. I felt like I died and went to heaven when I discovered Forever 21's accessory store for love at the Beverly Center.

Thankfully, with all of the accessory binges in my past (those days when I would mindlessly pull out my credit card and haphazardly charge my purchases) I have built up quite the collection. Lately, I have only needed to add an item here or there to coordinate with a specific outfit. I also decided that it is way better to invest in a designer purse once a year instead of buying several less expensive bags. You end up spending about the same anyways. Keep you fingers crossed I find a way to own a Gucci bag this year. Needless to say, my accessory shopping in the fashion world has dwindled. (Probably a good thing considering one of my goals is to pay down credit card debt).

A scary thing happened over the weekend. Instead of shopping in a mall, I found myself in a running store. Yikes! It is not a good idea to go to a running store after a run (Like they say don't go to the grocery store hungry!). All of those endorphins pumping through your body block your ability to think logically (who am I kidding? Being logical is not one of my strengths!) and you end up with things that you don't truly need. I ended up with a new pair of shoes (absolutely necessary purchase), a new pair of socks (I have tons of running socks, but most don't even have enough elastic left to stay in place on my feet. Arguable if these were necessary!), packets of vanilla bean Gu (I'm up to 10 miles in my training schedule. I needed something more substantial than Gatordae to prevent bonking) and a new watch (a running accessory). I left the store with the Garmin Forerunner. It's gray and pink (my favorite color), so how could I not? I'll admit this accessory was a splurge and not necessary. I could have eased my way into running watches with a Nike or Timex. It was just so tempting! Now that I am actually concerned about my time while running, don't I need the best? I got a work out this weekend and so did my credit card (sigh...maybe I'll do better next month).

It's scary that my love for accessories now extends beyond the fashion world. I guess at least now I'll look like a fashionable runner. Maybe I need a new hat to match my new white, orange and gray shoes?

Sometimes You Have It, Sometimes You Don't!

I have been more committed to my half marathon training schedule than I ever have been before. I have actually done most of the speed work and strength training sessions (with the help of a personal trainer). I have logged the long runs diligently. Yesterday, I went out for my 9-mile run. I was pumped to hit the Silver Lake trail. It's a 2.3 mile trail around a fake lake. I knew I only had to go around the trail 4 times and I did it a few weeks ago, so I thought piece of cake. I started off strong. One lap in and I was feeling great, well except for my annoying fuel belt. Can someone please invent a fuel belt for petite women? I swear I burned a ton of energy adjusting my belt. Every other step that thing would ride up my waist! Music was great. I got into some DMB, which fired me up for their upcoming concert. My mind started to wander about new opportunities and career goals. The sun was shining and I was happy to be out running.

Then I hit the third lap. I started to feel fatigued and wanted to stop. I tried repeating my positive running affirmation (I am crossing the finish line of the Disney half-marathon under 2 hours and I feel ecstatic!). I played mental games with myself and tried to convince myself that I didn't have much longer to go. Finally I finished the 3rd lap and started my 4th and final lap around the fake lake. I was about 8 miles in when I came up to a hill and I stopped running. I don't remember telling myself to stop running and start walking. It just happened. I was so frustrated! I don't like to walk on my runs. I felt defeated. I felt exhausted and walked shamelessly up the hill. I walked for 4 minutes and decided I had enough. I picked up my pace and started to run again. I ran the rest of the lap and finished my 9.2 mile run in 86 minutes. I was bummed about walking until I got home and checked my training schedule. When I did the same run a couple of weeks ago I finished the 9.2 miles in 88 minutes. I did better than last time even with 4 minutes of walking.

Lessons learned...sometimes you have it and the conditions are just right. Sometimes you just don't have it. Yesterday, I just didn't have it. Maybe it was because I went out too late in the day. I started running around 1:00pm with only breakfast as my fuel. Maybe I was tired from traveling for work the week before. Regardless of the conditions, never give up! Keep putting one foot in front of the other no matter how slow or how fast. You just might surprise yourself.

How Can You Hate Running?

Hi! Remember me? Not sure why I haven't written a post in months. I'm sure I've experienced plenty of fabulous things in LA since my last post. I guess I just haven't been motivated to put my thoughts into words. Well that all changed yesterday. I composed this post in my head while running 9.2 miles. (One of my 2010 goals is to run a half under 2 hours. Well, I am registered for 3 half marathons this fall and well into a training program).

I was chatting with my husband about running Saturday and he mentioned that he hates running. This conversation replayed in my head while I was baking in the heat willingly running mile after mile. I remember a time when I hated running too. I couldn't stand running for PE class. It bothered me that we had to get all gross and sweaty in 2nd hour and then sit in classes for the rest of the day. Something dramatically changed since then. Now, I don't mind grabbing coffee or lunch after a good run and I don't feel the need to change out of my clothes. It's almost like I am proud to walk into a store or run errands after a run. It's kind of like bragging to the public that I just pounded the pavement (I'm sure the people who smell me feel a bit differently!). My feelings for running changed. What caused this change?

I think as soon as you experience the runner's high, you're hooked. It's like crack. You just can't get enough. You need your daily fix of running. Maybe it's the feeling of running one mile longer than you ever have before. I'll never forget mile 20 or crossing the finish line of the Chicago Marathon. Running definitely appeals to my competitive side. I was never good at team sports, but with running I only have to compete with myself. Having someone drape a finisher's medal around your neck surely helps tip the scale from hate to love pretty quickly. What about the mind clearing benefits? I've solved so many dilemmas on my runs. I think every great idea I've had lately originated on a run.

I pulled a t-shirt out of my drawer the other night from 2004. The shirt was from the Kingdom House Run in St. Louis, MO and that run was my first 10k. I thought I was going to die and it took me an hour to cross the finish line. I ran farther than I ever had before and finished by running up hill. That might have been when I first feel in love with running and I don't see us breaking up anytime soon. If anything, my love affair is only deepening. I used to lust after Gucci bags and designer sunglasses. Now, I all I can think about are new running shoes and a Garmin watch.

I wonder how I can help people like my husband tip their scales from hate to love?

I Have Not Fallen Off The Face Of The Earth

My last post was nearly 2 months ago. I'm sure my followers (all 10 of them) have been wondering what has happened to me. Rest assured fans, I am alive and well.

Since a lot has happened in a couple of months, I thought I would start by updating you on my progress towards achieving my 2010 goals. Not only is this a good way to share with you my triumphs and slip-ups, but it's also a good check in with myself to see where I stand. We are already 1/4 of the way through the year (hard to believe!).

Personal Growth - I have continued to take the Saturday hip-hop class and love, love, love it! I have only missed 3 classes (one because I was teaching a charity spin class, one because I decided to spend the day with my husband and the other because my dad was in town). I am so into hip hop that I even bought shoes to wear to class. This was a very necessary purchase. It might have set me back a little on my paying down credit card debt goal, but I needed the shoes for class. Have you ever tried to dance in running shoes? I have not taken an official cooking class, but I did make risotto thanks to a good friend who offered to teach me some cooking skills. Can I get partial credit for this? I just finished reading Play Like A Man, Win Like A Woman (fantastic read for all of you career focused women). Best quote from the book..."We have to remember that both I can and I can't are true statements. If you believe you can, you can. If you believe you can't, you can't." I have also been reading Drive by Daniel Pink. Motivation is not just about rewards and punishments. I finished Candace Bushnell's Trading Up last month, but I guess that doesn't count since it was not a business book. 2 business books down and 4 months in, I guess I am a little behind in this area.

Running a Half Marathon Under 2 Hours - I have my sights set on 3 half marathons this year. Disneyland in September, Lewis & Clark back in St. Louis in October (it will be my sister's 1st half so I have to be there to run with her) and LA Rock 'n' Roll at the end of October. I have been running outside on the weekends and on the treadmill once or twice during the week. I need to step it up in terms on weekly mileage, but I'm confident I can kill this goal. I'm now teaching 2 spinning classes per week, which definitely helps build my endurance. Kind of a random note...I met Dean Karnazes (the Ultra Marathon man) at a kick-off party for the LA Rock 'n' Roll. I had no idea who he was when I was talking to him, but after googling his name I realized he is a big deal in the running world.

Certified Coach - I'll know this week if I am able to go to our home office for the clinic. Super excited about the possibility! I'm still focused on helping at least one rep from each class reach the 6-month benchmark. I am 3 for 3 now!

About those credit cards...old habits die hard. The good news is that I am more aware of what I am spending and charging. The bad news...it's summer shoe time and Nine West recently had a great sale. Still some work to be done in this area. It would be really great if I didn't like nice things or enjoy shopping. I think I need to pick up a 3rd spin class just to support my shoe habit.

I'll try to write more often. It's fun to share what's been going on and what I have been experiencing in LA.

On Top Of The World
Yesterday I was on top of the world, both figuratively and literally. I went to Runyon Canyon (my new obsession in LA) and the views from the top of the hill are breathtaking and totally worth the effort to hike to the top. I took full advantage of being away from the city streets and ran on the trails throughout the canyon. When I conquered a giant hill (took me two techno songs to climb to the top) without stopping I felt like I was on top of the world. What is it about running that makes you feel incredible? Nothing beats a good run. An hour of cardio at the gym is just not the same as being out on the open road (or trail). I need to incorporate more running into my weekly workouts to cleanse my soul and reach my half marathon goal. Yesterday’s workout was definitely a win (and a good one for the legs considering it hurts to get up and down from my chair)! Score 1 for me working towards a 2010 goal.

I am sucking at achieving my less credit card debt goal. Why was I cursed with the gene that makes me love shopping? Why couldn’t I have been one of the girls who actually hates shopping? I am going to be the old lady who has no retirement savings, but a damn good collection of shoes and purses. Last weekend I gave my Express credit card a workout. I needed some new work pants (Yes, this was a real need and not a want. I realize I often confuse the two and try to justify my wants as needs. However, when you are left with two pairs of dress pants that actually fit, you have a need to either lose weight or buy more pants. Considering the fact that I can’t seem to control my eating and drinking habits lately, I was stuck buying new pants. I am going to argue that I deserve a slight break. The last time I bought new dress pants was after I graduated Grad School and that was 2 ½ years ago. I spent hours at the gym instead of hours at a desk in Grad School, so I am kind of letting myself off the weight loss hook.).

I guess I didn’t need the scarf or cute going out clutch from Express. Last time I checked, those items are not required at the office. Minus 1 for me working towards a 2010 goal. (I should probably subtract another point for wandering aimlessly into the Nike store after my run yesterday and hap hazardously buying a new hot pink hat, running shorts and t-shirt with the best slogan -“You can’t finish, unless you start”. Definitely not needed items. I’m blaming this one on the endorphins running through my system after my run at Runyon Canyon.) Minus 2 for unnecessary shopping.

I’m giving myself ½ a point for starting my February business book. I am reading Drive by Daniel Pink. I am excited to learn more about motivation; however, I can’t seem to find the motivation to continue reading the book. I am too tempted by red wine, chocolate and sitting on the couch watching American Idol with my Pugs. (Wonder why I needed to buy new pants!). It doesn’t help that a great chick lit book is sitting on my nightstand. I would much rather read Candace Bushnell.

Not quite on top of the world with my 2010 goals. I am doing an average job of working towards my 2010 goals. The good news is that I have not gotten completely off track. I’ll just need to keep the credit cards locked up for a while and log some extra minutes at the gym on the bike to read and I’ll be back in action. (So much easier said than done!).

It's Not A Goal Until You Write It Down

I have been meaning to write this post since the first of the year. Here I am a month and a half later finally getting around to it! I have not had the energy to do much besides workout, go to work, walk the dogs and cook dinner. (Married life is great, huh?) After a very surprising great day I am full of energy and ready to write (having a husband passed out in bed before 9:00pm on a Friday night might also be part of the reason I am finally blogging).

I was in a meeting earlier this week and someone said it's not a goal until you put it on paper. My ears perked up as I nodded in agreement. I have had that same thought going through my mind since the start of the year. I set my goals during the first week of January while working out (I get my best thinking done at the gym), but have not written them down. I am not only writing my goals, but I am also making them public (to all 10 of my followers). Here they are...K's goals for 2010!

Goal #1 - Get my name changed (not really a serious goal, but need to get it done if only the damn state of CA would cooperate). I successfully made it through the social security department (which took two tries with the same documentation) and have a new last name associated with my SS #. I went to the DMV to get a snazzy new license with my fabulous new last name and I got rejected. There is nothing worse than going to the DMV, waiting in line and putting up with the grouchy workers only to get denied! The CA DMV worker would not accept my certified copy of my marriage license. She said she couldn't read the seal. It makes no sense that the SS office would accept my copy, but the DMV wouldn't. Seriously, aren't they both government offices? Now, I am stuck in limbo with 2 last names. I am having a major identity crisis and on top of it have to battle with the state of MO to get a new certified copy with a readable seal. I am starting to understand why women don't take their husbands' last names. What a pain in the you know what!

Now for the real goals. 2009 was a good year and full of a lot of change, but I didn't accomplish any goals. (I might not be giving myself enough credit. I did successfully move to a new city, start a new job, adopt 2 puppies and get married last year. Pretty much every major life change, with the exception of having a baby, occurred all in the same year. So I guess happily surviving all of the changes is an accomplishment.) I want to pop champagne on December 31, 2010 and celebrate some real accomplishments, so I set personal, professional and financial goals.

I am focused on a lot of personal growth. I am going to take hip-hop (already took my first one!) classes to mix up my workouts and take cooking classes to learn to make more dinner options. (My poor husband must be tired of pizza and pasta by now.) I am going to read a business book each month to sharpen my skills and stay on top of my field (this might be a cross into professional, but I still consider it personal growth).

My big personal goal...I am going to run a half marathon under 2 hours. I have said this before, but I have not taken the appropriate action to make it happen (I've also never written this goal down). I have already run my first 10k of the year and have been focused on logging some weekly miles. Look out Disneyland half...here I come!

Professionally I want to become a certified coach. (This all depends on if I get into our company's program. I'm on the wait list.) If I get to go through the program, I want to complete the necessary steps to become certified. I also plan to have at least one rep from each training class I coach achieve the 6-month benchmark. So far, I am 2 for 2. :)

Financially I am going to have 10% less credit card debt by the end of the year. You are probably thinking that 10% seems a little low. I felt that I needed a very reachable financial goal to make some progress in this area. I had to be realistic when setting this goal. I am still going to shop (spring sandals and dresses are right around the corner). 10% will make me feel like I made a dent in the damage, but won't force me to have shopping withdrawals. Did I mention I already have my eyes on my next Louis Vuitton?

I am excited about the new year. Now that I am settled in LA it is time to make some big things happen. Stay tuned and I'll keep you updated on my progress towards achieving my goals. I'm sure I'll throw in some workout play lists and random posts along the way.