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Floradise

A lifestyle blog by Marette Flora

Running a Half-Marathon Without Training | Chicago Half Marathon Recap

Note: Before I share my Chicago Half Marathon story, I want to advise against running a race without training. It is never a good idea. Even if you think you are in great shape, you put yourself at risk for injury. As always, you should consult a physician about what exercise/event is safe for you to do.

On Sunday, I awoke at 4:15 a.m. to get ready to run 13.1 miles in south Chicago during the Chicago Half Marathon. Some backstory: I had signed up for the spring Chicago Half Marathon in 2017. With V having recently joined our family, I was not in a routine and had no childcare lined up for the day of the race, so I deferred to 2018. I then didn’t run the fall half-marathon in 2017 because I was newly pregnant and had a fainting episode that week. I obviously didn’t run the spring half marathon again this year because I had just given birth. I contacted the registration team and asked if there was any way I could run the fall race instead this year, and they said that they normally don’t allow this but they made an exception for me. I was so grateful and thought surely I would be able to train at least a little during maternity leave. I even blogged about my postpartum fitness goals and said I would recap my training on the blog.

That did not happen.

Postpartum life was harder than I expected. I am fairly certain I was in a sort of depression for much of it and I didn’t feel like myself until A was at least 3 months old. I can count on one hand the number of times I ran outdoors. I went to about as many Soul Cycle classes, too. That obviously is not adequate training, especially after taking months off running during pregnancy.

But I wanted to run the half-marathon anyway. I wanted to do it for myself. I miss running. I used to do it several times a week, and it was a major focus of this blog. I would share weekly recaps of my training along with tips I learned along the way. The time I spent on the Chicago Lakefront path was like my therapy as I am an introvert who needs this time for herself. I miss that so much! Not having any time for myself postbaby is likely what caused my postbaby blues to last longer than many people say they typically last. So even though I wasn’t really ready, I didn’t want to skip this race yet again.

The day before the race, I was 50 percent sure I would do it. I debated changing to the 5K at the last minute. But then Graham told me he took the day off and I picked up my packet with the girls. V kept saying that I was going to “win” the race and get a medal. I didn’t want to disappoint her.

When I went to bed that night, I was still unsure. I decided that if the baby woke up multiple times at night (like she did the night before), I would not run. Lucky for me, she went to sleep at 7:30 p.m. I went to bed at 9 sharp. She woke me up once around midnight and then not again until 5:15 a.m. when we left for the race. I couldn’t use lack of sleep as an excuse.

The Chicago Half Marathon

As I stepped into the corral, I was proud to have at least made it. I figured that if it was absolutely horrible I could call Graham and then leave the course, though I could never imagine myself doing that.  I knew I wanted to jog as slowly as possible and that I would probably walk some of the race. I maintained about a 12 and a half minute mile pace throughout much of the course. By comparison, I ran this same course in 2016 at a 9:30ish pace for most of the race. I felt fine, so I didn’t even try to go faster. I only walked while crossing over two bridges, because they were on a little bit of a hill. (I listened to this playlist.) It was quite something to listen to Chance the Rapper while running through the streets of Chicago, I have to say.

And I did it! I completed the Chicago Half Marathon in my slowest time ever for 13.1 miles, which is to be expected. But it wasn’t about the time for me. It was about following through with a commitment I made to myself to get back to running. It was about showing 4-year-old V, who kept saying she was proud of me, that you can do what you put your mind to. It was also about not letting all my excuses win. And trust me, I have a lot of excuses.

I’m glad I did it. Sure, my legs are still super sore, but it felt so good to be out there. I would do it again (in the same unique situation) in a heartbeat.

Half-Marathon highlights:

  • The expo was held at the Roosevelt Collection center this year. I liked this location vs. Soldier Field because it was easier for me to get to from where I now live. Plus, parking was free for two hours with validation, which was offered at Fleet Feet. I was going to purchase energy gels there anyway, so that worked out. (In the past, I had to pay to park at the Soldier Field garage just to pick up my packet.)
  • The medal was as awesome as ever. The Chicago Half Marathon is known for large, well-designed medals.
  • The volunteers were amazing!
  • Your bib comes with a ticket for a beer and pizza.
  • I love the view when you turn to go north on the course around Mile 3 or so.

 

 

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Related posts:

Chicago Half Marathon 2016 Recap
Chicago Marathon 2016 Recap

Summer Running Spotify Playlist

 

Summer Running Spotify Playlist
What songs would you add to my summer running Spotify playlist?

I’ve gotten a bit of a late start on my half-marathon training, but I’m excited to finally begin. Why so late? When I was pregnant I eagerly awaited the day I could run again. Many women can continue running while pregnant, but sadly I was not one of them. I counted down the days until my six-week postpartum appointment when I would be cleared to work out and I could celebrate with a run. It didn’t happen that way, though. Instead I couldn’t start running until eight weeks postpartum. I was exhausted, though, and any free time I have had would be spent resting, to be honest. Now I am finally more comfortable hiring a sitter so I can run or work out in general. I’ve been slowly adding songs to my summer running Spotify playlist to prepare for half-marathon training. Wish me luck as I start getting ready for the Chicago Fall Half Marathon!

Summer Running Spotify Playlist:

I will be updating my summer running playlist as the season progresses. I hope to have enough music for my half-marathon by September. Do you have a workout playlist? What songs would you add?

Songs include:

  • “Thunder/Young Dumb & Broke” by Imagine Dragons and Khalid
  • “Say Amen” by Panic! at the Disco
  • “Wait” by Maroon 5

 

Related post:

Chicago Marathon 2016 Recap

Postpartum Fitness Goals

I’m now eight weeks postpartum and I’ve finally been cleared to work out. I am feeling back to normal for the most part and I’m ready to get back to running after months off! I’m sharing my postpartum fitness goals in hopes of finding others who are going through the same phase of life or who are also looking to get back in shape or improve their health and well-being. I plan to post weekly recaps of my half-marathon training when I officially begin later this month; watch out for those, especially if you need motivation to find time for working out. I am a mom of two now so it will be challenging to make the time for fitness and I’m sure that will come up in my recaps. I’ll share any tips I learn along the way!

My Postpartum Fitness Goals:

  • Running: My goal is to train for and run the Chicago Half Marathon in September. I haven’t run a race since the Chicago Marathon in 2016, so I can’t wait to get back out there! I plan to sign up for group training as I did in the past. My goal is to finish the race in whatever way it takes, meaning walking as much as I need to. I don’t have a time goal this time around.
  • Weight: As of last week I was 3 pounds below my pre-baby weight thanks to breastfeeding, so I don’t feel like I need to drop more weight, but I’ll take it if it means I feel more toned and stronger. Right now I don’t feel either way.
  • Yoga: My goal is to get back to practicing regularly after some time off. I hope to also make it to two classes in a studio a month. (I can practice as much as I want at home because I am trained as a yoga teacher.)
  • Meals: I tracked my food intake throughout most of my pregnancy but I have gotten off track over the past few months. I want to get back to reviewing what I am eating and making sure I eat enough protein!
  • Family: I want to incorporate the kids into my fitness routine as much as possible by pushing them in the running stroller or practicing yoga at home with V. We also go on family walks sometimes and I want to continue that.

Are you working toward a fitness goal? Share yours in the comments so we can hold each other accountable and encourage one another!

Related posts:

Chicago Marathon 2016 Recap
Future Moments of Yes: My 2018 Goal

7 Favorite Things to Do in Chicago

Favorite Things to Do in Chicago During the Summer

Every summer that I’ve lived in Chicago I create a summer bucket list of things I want to do during the season. This year I am simplifying the process by sticking to just my favorite things to do in the city instead of trying to do everything. Completing my check list will be a bit more challenging with two kids, but I’m up for the task!

My favorite things to do in Chicago:

  1. Standup paddleboarding: I have really enjoyed trying SUP as a way to get a workout and see the city from a different viewpoint. It’s also a nice way to get away if you think about it: everyone’s on the beach and you get some of the lake to yourself while on the water.
  2. Kayaking on Chicago River: Graham and I had a memorable date night on a sunset river kayaking tour and I hope to find the time to try this again.
  3. Baseball game at Wrigley Field: No summer is complete without baseball! (You can sub a White Sox game if that’s your jam, I guess.)
  4. Architecture tour: The evening architecture tour on the Chicago River doesn’t get old. I like to do this whenever we have visitors.
  5. Sunset cruise: Graham and I have done this cruise on Lake Michigan every summer. We love the views.
  6. Running on the lakefront path: I want to train for the Chicago Half in the fall, and I miss the trail! I plan to sign up for group training again.
  7. Brunch (bonus points for a rooftop!):  Sure, you can have brunch any time of year, but it’s the best and most fun during the summer when you can sit on the patio with your mimosa(s) in hand.

What would you add to this list? Have you visited Chicago during the summer? What was your favorite thing to do?

Related posts:

Chicago summer bucket list and on-the-go photo tips
Chicago spring bucket list

New Fabletics Workout Attire & My Pregnancy Fitness Routine

** This post is sponsored by Fabletics. All opinions are my own.

Fitness has been an important part of my life for seven years now. I have known that I want to stay as active as possible throughout my pregnancy, but my fitness routine has certainly changed. What motivates me to want to work out still involves cute athletic wear though! Today I’m sharing my pregnancy fitness routine and the new workout outfit I am loving to help me not only look great but feel confident during this special but challenging time.

I have written about Fabletics before because I have been impressed with their workout attire. They have such pretty designs, and I’ve found that they hold up well to frequent use and washes. I wear this Fabletics top all the time because I love the coverage in the back and it’s comfortable.

My Pregnancy Fitness Routine | New Fabletics Workout Outfit

My Pregnancy Fitness Routine | New Fabletics Workout Outfit

My New Fabletics Workout Outfit + Wish List:

I recently received the Aubrey Tank (White) and the Salar Mesh Powerhold Capri (Aegean) from Fabletics to try. The new collection is so adorable that it was difficult to choose an outfit! I wanted everything!

The Aubrey Tank is super comfortable and moisture-wicking. It’s meant to have a loose fit, but during pregnancy it fits around the belly. (You could also size up if you’re pregnant if you still want that relaxed fit.)  I chose capri leggings from Fabletics because I am short and I always prefer the shorter style. The side panels add a nice touch.

 

 

Other legging features:

  • Chafe resistant
  • All-way stretch
  • Sculpting
  • UPF protection
  • Quick dry

My Pregnancy Fitness Routine:

I’ve had to adjust my fitness routine since becoming pregnant. In the beginning, I was running regularly as before, but then I had to listen to my body and cut back. I now focus most of my attention to yoga and walking at an incline on the treadmill or hiking. I’ve had the opportunity to hike in the Phoenix mountains during my visit and when I’m back home in Chicago I use the treadmill two or three times a week. When I run on the treadmill, I alternate between jogging and walking on an incline. I plan to return to running as my primary workout as soon as possible after baby so I can train for the Chicago Half-Marathon in September.

To sum up my pregnancy workouts:

  • Yoga (in class or on my own)
  • Jogging
  • Walking on the treadmill at an incline (alternating with jogging)
  • Random at-home strength exercises such as lunges and squats

Have you tried Fabletics? Check out the new styles and let me know what items you’d love to get! This month you can get 2 pairs of leggings for $24 – a $99 value – when you sign up for their flexible VIP membership program!

Shop my Fabletics outfit**:

Click the images below to shop my outfit.

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Related post:

A Phoenix Hike

Benefits of Group Running

Benefits of Group Running

Before I moved to Chicago I never ran with a group. Occasionally I would run with a friend, but I rarely ran with more than one person (with the exception of races, of course). While I prefer to run alone for the most part — I love my me time and listening to music or Audible books — I was reminded last week of the benefits of running with a group.

Benefits of group running:

  • Motivation and accountability. It was 30-something degrees on a dark November night. I was hungry and cold, and I was easily persuading myself to skip the group run. I could always run on the treadmill in my building, I said. But would I push myself? I knew the answer would be no that day, so I rushed to the group run meeting place and joined them for 3.5 miles. I was glad I stuck with it because I needed the inspiration to run. My fellow runners’ excitement for running was contagious! By asking friends to run with you or joining an organized group, you gain inspiration, accountability for showing up and lots of tips from others! Plus, you will know you are not alone in any securities you might have about running, like your speed.
  • Challenging yourself/improved speed. It was my first run that was more than 2 miles in weeks, so the run was difficult for me. I had all sorts of muscle tightness throughout my first weeks of pregnancy, and midway during the run it became worse. Later that night I felt so much tightness that I could hardly walk. I worried that I had injured myself by pushing too hard, but I awoke the next morning to see that any tension I had felt was gone. The run and postrun stretching had helped work that out! I was proud to have pushed myself to run faster than I had in almost two months. When you run by yourself, you might stick to your typical pace and never challenge yourself to go faster. It’s smart to occasionally run with people who will push you to speed up just a tad. You might surprise yourself!
  • Friendship. The running community is welcoming. I enjoyed the companionship and conversation among the runners at my pace during my last group run. One of them was the first person I met at a meetup in 2015 when I first moved to Chicago. Her warm welcome kept me coming back, and I’ve met other wonderful friends at these meetups since then.
  • Mixing it up. We took a different route from the usual path, and we ate at a new restaurant. It was a nice change from always running to and from the lake, or on the Chicago Lakefront path. Running the same route can get boring, so it’s important to add some variety to your workouts.

The best part about group running is that fellow runners are your cheering section. You’ll get high-fives and encouragement when you need it. If you have to stop mid-run, someone will wait for you. I highly recommend it!

I don’t know how I will feel throughout this pregnancy but I hope that I can attend these group runs at least once a month for all the reasons I listed above.

Do you enjoy working out solo or with others? What’s your current favorite workout?

Related posts:

How to start running | Chicago Marathon 2016 recap

Fitness Favorites and Ways to Find Low-Cost Workouts

Lately I’ve been all about finding ways to sweat at home, whether it’s trying a workout I found on YouTube or practicing yoga on my own when I can’t make it to class. Life has been crazy lately, which means running has taken a backseat. My most recent long run was almost 12 miles a couple of weeks ago, and it will likely be my last major distance for a while. My plan is to instead focus strength training and yoga, and to be kinder to my body.

My current fitness favorites:

Whitney Simmons’ YouTube channel: I like that her videos are short and sweet, and she often shares workouts that can be done at home. I appreciate at-home workouts for days when I can’t make it to the gym during child care hours or days when I just don’t feel like running but want to sweat a bit.

Resistance bands: I bought these because I’ve been doing the workouts on Whitney Simmons’ channel. She often incorporates these into her training. I bought the red and purple bands, but I have been mostly using the red. I underestimated the resistance and probably didn’t need the purple yet. I like that they enhance simple movements such as squats and lunges.

90 Degree by Reflex clothing: I recently became an ambassador for 90 Degree by Reflex, which means I was provided complimentary outfits. I already owned some yoga leggings, but I was excited to try more of their athletic clothing. It came at a perfect time, because I want to transition into focusing on yoga over running in the months ahead.

Carb Boom! Energy Gels: I first used these energy gels to train for the Chicago Marathon in 2016. I loved that they taste so much better than other gels I used to purchase. They never upset my stomach, a major win! They don’t contain artificial sweeteners or flavors and are made from real fruit purees/concentrates. My favorite flavors: Grape Pomegranate, Raspberry and Strawberry Kiwi. I stay away from the Banana Peach, Vanilla Orange and Apple Cinnamon because those flavors tend to gross me out during runs. I prefer fruity flavors. I typically order a sampler pack; you can select your flavors. While I won’t be running long distances much, I wanted to mention these because they have helped me through multiple rounds of half-marathon and marathon training.

Sources of free or low-cost workouts:

I love finding workouts for free or at a lower cost, especially now that I often have to pay for child care to work out. I find that in a city like Chicago it’s easy to find free classes or events.

Some methods I’ve used to find free/affordable workouts:

  • Many fitness YouTubers include their workouts in the description bar or on their Instagram captions. I screenshot them and see if I can do any of them at home.
  • Search for free community yoga classes in your area. Many studios offer at least a free class per month or week. Other studios offer a pay-what-you-can class each week. I recently bought a Groupon for a yoga package at a nice discount.
  • Other fitness studios also offer a free first class. Search EventBrite or Facebook events for free fitness classes. On EventBrite, enter your location and fitness (or bootcamp, running, yoga, etc.) in the description and then narrow results by Price (Free vs. Paid).
  • Search Pinterest for at-home workout ideas.
  • Join a running group for meetups or track workouts.

What’s your favorite workout right now?

Decluttering Process/Update & Items I Regret Buying

**This post contains affiliate links. I make a small commission on purchases made through these links. Thanks for supporting Floradise!
I recently had the urge to reexamine my entire wardrobe as part of my end-of-summer cleaning and decluttering list, which I shared in July.  I began with about 50 items hanging in my closet, not counting my winter jackets and exercise clothes. While that number is not astronomical, I still felt like I was holding onto items that were no longer working for me. I wanted to see if I cut that down even more.
Steps I took to declutter my closet:
  • I first looked at the clothing my closet and took note of the items I am definitely not decluttering. These are the clothes I absolutely love.
  • I grabbed everything I was on the fence about or haven’t worn this season or year (since January) and put them on my bed.
  • I tried on every single piece I was unsure about. I examined how I looked and felt (aka the spark Joy method) but mostly checked that it fit and flattered my body.
  • If I decided I wanted to keep the item, I asked myself what other items I would pair it with for a complete outfit. I found that this gave me ideas for outfits for the fall and winter, which made me excited to wear the items again.
  • I threw the items I felt frumpy in or that no longer fit in the donation pile or listed them online. I had kept some clothes in hopes of fitting into them again at some point after gaining weight in the past year. But I realized that holding onto them was weighing me down and making me feel disappointed in myself when I saw them. They were daily reminders that I am not at my ideal stage. I’m instead choosing to accept where I am and not pressure myself to look a certain way.
  • Purses: I held them and asked myself how often I use them. I didn’t have many to start with, just four. But I realized I could get rid of at least one. I also realized I need a black small to midsize crossbody bag because it would go with most of my outfits and sometimes I don’t want to carry a large purse.
  • I don’t have much space in our closet, so I hang my scarves on a hanger. I went through and touched each one. I asked myself how many outfits each scarf matched and how many times I wore it last winter. If none, I donated it. I moved my scarves next to my long-sleeve tees so that I will see them when I grab a top this fall and so I will hopefully be inspired to wear one.
  • I went through my race shirts and workout tops and asked myself what I wear most often and why. I typically wear the same tops: tanks or comfortable, soft tees. I had been hanging onto tees from my training groups because I felt like I had to, but I decided to let them go because I simply don’t like them and never wear them. No one seems to mind that I don’t run in our training shirts when I do group training anyway. I arranged my shirts by color so I can easily find them. (The purple fabric in the corner is the packaging for sheets I bought a long time ago. I use it to store my extra hair ties, running gels, reflective vest, headlamp and lip balm.)
  • I don’t own many shoes, but I took a look at them anyway. I decided I didn’t need an extra pair of running shoes. I am donating these because they are still in good shape.

 

  • I can fit my makeup collection into a three-drawer storage organizer**, but I still went through it. I decided to give a few items to family who I know would use them, and my goal is to only have one of each makeup item, except blushes, eyeshadow palettes and lip products. I also set a goal to use up some products this fall, including one I was particularly disappointed with. (More on that below.)
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Three-drawer organizer**

The outcome:

My winter and fall jackets, a couple pairs of shorts, a work blazer, my nightgowns/lingerie (which I hang) and a vest are not pictured. I kept the perfect amount for me: A casual winter jacket, a peacoat, a lighter coat for fall special occasions (weddings), a casual rain jacket, a more formal rain jacket, and a poncho that I pretty much live in during the summer. Also not shown is an army green jacket and a mustard top I recently purchased for the fall. On my shopping list: One or two long-sleeve tops.

Products I wish I didn’t buy:

As I’ve gone through my decluttering list, I’ve come items I have changed my mind about and wish I didn’t buy in the first place. I will admit that at times I’ve been influenced to purchase items because of hype on blogs and YouTube. I now realize that I need to get back to being more mindful about my purchases and only buying items I really need. Not all of these items have been disappointing; one was simply something I did not need and don’t use.

  • Jaclyn Hill/Becca Face Palette: This was one of the first purchases I made when I wanted to get into highlighters. I was influenced to buy this palette by all the hype around it. I had heard so much about Champagne Pop, and Prosecco Pop swatches looked beautiful online. I also liked that the palette came with three blushes, so I figured I would get a lot of use out of it. So what happened? I featured this in my favorites when I first purchased it, but soon after that it broke. I was able to repress Prosecco Pop, but Champagne Pop was mixed with one of the blush colors. After owning this for more than a year, I can say that I only really reach for this for the Amaretto blush color. I use the little bit of Prosecco Pop that didn’t shatter, but I was not able to really use Champagne Pop. I don’t really think the other two blush colors look good on me, so this palette overall has not been worth the money I paid. My goal is to use the rest of the blush and highlighter this fall.
  • Nikki Blackketter x Gymshark top and leggings: This purchase was another instance of hype getting the best of me. I love Nikki’s YouTube channel and I credit it for motivating me when I had lost interest in fitness this year. When she posted about her collection, I loved everything. At least, everything looked great on her. It did not look so great on me, however. I had not purchased much from Gymshark so I was unfamiliar with its sizing. I ended up ordering the wrong size in leggings. I sold them on eBay to get my money back, but I kept the top. I featured it in my favorites a couple of months ago, too. But then I washed it and the logos came off. Call me crazy, but a $60 top workout top should not lose its labeling/logo that quickly. I still plan to wear it, but I was disappointed about that.
  • Milani Even Touch Powder Foundation: I am not saying this is a bad product; I just don’t ever use powder foundation, so I am not sure what I was thinking when I purchased this. To be fair, I was on vacation and ran out of foundation. I could not find the Milani liquid foundation at any drugstore I went to, so I gave this a shot in a pinch. The shade matched me perfectly, but I just never use this. I have loved most other Milani products I’ve tried, though.
Checking in on my cleaning and decluttering list:
I’ve crossed off many of the to-dos on the list I shared this summer, but I still have some pending. Sometimes I wonder if I will ever accomplish a couple of these, especially the one about decluttering DVDs.
  • Dust above cabinets and shelves.
  • Donate DVDs.
  • Get rid of old stroller and other baby items.
  • Store air-conditioning units (when weather eventually changes) and clean off heaters.
  • Donate extra umbrellas.
I have donated about two bags of items, including clothes and toys.
Is there a category that you find difficult to declutter? Share it with me in the comments! 
 
 

My Favorite Self-Care Apps

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser, Walmart Family Mobile. All opinions are mine alone. #SummerIsForSavings #CollectiveBias #WFM4

I recently shared how I take and post photos on the go while crossing off items from my Chicago summer bucket list. When I am not exploring the city or traveling, I’ve been focusing on self-care this summer.  As fun as it is to make nonstop plans to do, see and eat as much as I can with friends and family this season, I find myself also needing a healthy dose of me time. This helps me recharge so I am ready for more adventures. One of my August goals was to meditate five minutes a day, and while some weeks have been better than others, I’ve gained a lot more clarity about what I want and don’t want in life lately. What I do what in my life is to be more present in my time with family this summer (and beyond) as well as more time for self-care.

My LG L59 Grace phone’s homepage is organized in folders related to topics that are important to me, including Self-Care, Social Media, Photography, and Travel. I am considering making one solely for meditation as well. I can access these apps whenever I need them thanks to the $49.88 TRULY Unlimited Talk, Text, & Data◊ plan from Walmart Family Mobile, powered by T-Mobile’s nationwide 4G LTE network. I continued to use the no-contract, monthly service plan in August because it has a low price tag (plus never any hidden, activation or late fees).

In hopes of inspiring others to consider self-care along with these summer plans, I’m sharing my favorite apps I use for self-care. They keep me focused and help me relax when I need time for myself.

One of my favorite self-care methods is listening to self-improvement or entertaining books on Audible. I love “reading” the books when I need to unwind or simply sitting on my patio relaxing. One of my favorite times to listen is when I am taking an Epsom salt bath to relieve sore muscles. (Also, less money spent on a phone service plan means more to spend on motivational books!

Self-improvement books to consider:

  • “You Are a Badass at Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth” by Jen Sincero
  • “Present Over Perfect: Leaving Behind Frantic for a Simpler, More Soulful Way of Living” by Shauna Niequist
  • “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear” by Elizabeth Gilbert.
  • “Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun and Be Your Own Person” by Shonda Rhimes.

I use Pinterest for inspiration on self-care and healthy living. While some may associate the app with unrealistic expectations, I think it’s a place to gather inspiration and lots of helpful tips! I like to search for motivational quotes and save them to a board called Vision Board. I also save blog posts that offer tips for making life easier and happier.

I use My Fitness Pal for tracking meals and Map My Run to track workouts, including yoga sessions and training runs for my upcoming half-marathon. I also use Garmin Connect to help me analyze my sleep and walking patterns. Exercise and sleep greatly impact your mood and well-being, so it’s important to track how much of each you are getting and make adjustments as needed.

When I am feeling overwhelmed or down, I often will open up my Notes (or Memo) app and write down what I am feeling, kind of like a journal. I have been known to write lists of things I am grateful for that day or simply what I am thinking when I’m on-the-go. It’s cathartic to get these thoughts out! I look back on these to see whether I’ve been more positive or negative lately and assess my mental state. Being aware of whether your thoughts are loving or fearful helps you make more of an effort to be kind to yourself and others and change your outlook.

Spotify is what I use to make meditation, yoga or running playlists. Feel free to borrow songs from my playlists or create your own! If you’re not into meditation, yoga or running, make a happy playlist that puts you in a good mood when you’re down. (I also suggest a playlist for when you need to get pumped up for a big presentation, day or event.)

    An app I just recently downloaded is Headspace, which is free for the basics but may be worth the investment if you really need guidance. You can enroll in a monthly or yearly subscription for guided or unguided meditation. The free basics package starts you off with short sessions. (Many other meditation apps are also available!)

    Not only does Walmart Family Mobile’s TRULY Unlimited Data◊, powered by T-Mobile, save time and money, but it can be used for whatever I need at the moment, whether it’s to hear some soothing sounds like I’m stressed, uploading a photo to social media or getting directions to a new restaurant.

    Plus, customers on the $49.88 TRULY Unlimited plan◊ will receive a free VUDU** movie rental credit valued at $7.00 each time they renew their service, so you can watch a movie to decompress as well.

    Disclaimer: All prices for phones and plans included in this post are accurate as of the date of posting; however, these prices are subject to change. Please refer to this page or your local Walmart for current pricing.

    How have you taken care of yourself this summer in addition to having fun?


    ◊Does not include tethering. Video typically streams at DVD quality. During congestion, top 3% of users (>32GB/mo.) may notice reduced speeds due to deprioritization. Please always refer to the latest terms and conditions at myfamilymobile.com.

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    Half-Marathon Training, Week 2

     

    Half-Marathon Training, Week 2

    So far, so good. Week 2 of half-marathon training for the Chicago Half Marathon was successful in that I trained four days out of the week and increased my running mileage by 10 percent. That percentage is my goal for increasing mileage each week of the 12-week training process. Week 3 will be tricky because my oldest nephew, who just graduated from high school, will be visiting us in Chicago for a long weekend, so I will be busy showing him around the city. My short-term goal is to stay on track while making time for family. I also need to get back on track with strength training.

    Here’s how last week went down:

    Monday: 2-mile treadmill run. It was muggy and I didn’t want to run outside.

    Tuesday: Stretching.

    Wednesday: 2-mile run on the treadmill. It was another rainy and busy day, so I had to fit it in somehow. I did incline intervals to challenge myself. I missed group training this week because we needed to run some errands regarding our condo repairs and that was a priority for me.

    Thursday: 2-mile run on the treadmill. Again, I fit it in where I could.

    Friday: Rest.

    Saturday: Rest. I had planned to run my 5-miler this day but I was exhausted from running errands that morning and was recovering from some back pain I felt on Friday. I did 30 minutes of yoga that evening.

    Sunday: 5 miles. It was a beautiful day in Chicago and the temperature was ideal for running. I felt great and motivated, though that wind kept slowing me down. I had a delicious meal of breakfast tacos earlier so I had tons of energy to burn.

    Week’s mileage: 11

    Reflections:

    It’s amazing how much more inspired I’ve been feeling simply by knowing that I can do this and I have the tools I need for success. When you invest in yourself, you can have the confidence to know you can accomplish your goals. I have invested in child care, running coaches/a training schedule and time for myself, and I know it will pay off.

    I hope that if you’re reading this and you have a goal, whether it’s running a race, hiking a certain trail, or feeling better in your clothes, you just have to put that intention out there, focus on it, act on it and it will happen. Feel grateful that the results are coming and you will be rewarded.

    Quote for your day: “The inspiration you seek is already within you. Be silent and listen.” -Rumi

    Previous Recap:

    Half-marathon training, Week 1
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