I <3 RUNNING

Out by myself today! I couldn't get anybody out =( ! I ran in the low 8's just booking it. 

I FINALLY got Cassidy to come out and run with me. It just took all break to make that one work! I was excited to finally run with her, she is so funny and great fun to talk to. I had to make it a really easy run for her so we went from between our two houses down dog pound and into Washington (all down hill and then a little flat). She was a trooper and we made it work! There was so much to talk about with Christmas and New Years that we ran out of road before conversation but it was only 3 miles.

Worked and cleaned most the day. My parents were gone to take my sister back up to school . . .talk about one bad day! I ended up sneaking out for a run after work and before I had to pick up my brothers. It ended up being a quick 3 up to Wal Mart and back. After the run I lifted weights. 

a.m - I totally thought today was Monday! I remembered over New Years how I loved running with my dad! I have gotten so tied up with cross country and track that I haven't ran with him for awhile and he has stopped running. This last quarter I wrote a paper about the beginnings of my running journey and it was because of him that it all started. I used to love our early morning talks and the time. I didn't enjoy getting out of bed or in fact the running part of it but. . . I do now! I talked my dad into running with me Mondays (I thought today was Monday), Wednesdays and Fridays. So I got up this morning and I was the one waking him up! It was a great run and we got to talk just like we used too! 

p.m - Today might have been the biggest disappointment but we have those though! I went running in the morning, I did a good job and running everyday over the break, I lifted weights Mondays and Fridays and I was excited to run with the girls. We started over to do old man hills and I was excited because I was in shape an just ready. About the 2nd mile my knee got to the point where I couldn't extend or run on it. Coach told us to do 5 and I finish my workouts and I am physically capable of it. It got bad enough that eventually I had to stop I started running back and got to the point where I couldn't run. My house was a little ways away so I just scooted there.

Diagnose : IT band!!! The trainer said he had never seen one so tight before! He did a test to see what it was and I couldn't do it and what I did was so PAINFUL!

Solution: 3 IBU's every 6 hours. Stretching, ultra sounds, heat ice, roll, and well have to advance stretches from there! =(

Okay so I guess I am a freaking weirdo! Yesterday my knee hurt so bad I couldn't run and could barley walk and today there is no pain (well like little twinges but not bad and only for a second) after 4 miles AND striders. I don't know why, I don't know whats going on but I'll keep treating the IT band and baby it for awhile. I am just fine with it being better but it just strikes on occasions and I don't know what triggers it? I had the same thing happen when I went on a long run with Chandis and it hit within the 1st 2 miles and I could keep running till 4 when it was finally done. It lingered a little longer then for a couple weeks I struggled but hey, if its gone I'm all good. I really don't know but I'm glad its better and I'll keep bumping the miles up. 

a.m - Well since I messed up on Tuesday thinking it was Monday we ran today, making it Tuesday Thursday. I think we might go tomorrow but it depends on my dads foot. It is really sore. The reason he stopped running last time was because of . . . I don't know how to spell it. My dad told me this morning about the Police officer (women officer) who was shot with a rifle just above her badge and shortly died after. They caught the two men who shot her  in a guys shed. Ironically the Police officer that was shot her brother bought drugs from the two men 10 minutes before she was shot. She was pulling them over for a traffic violation and wasn't suspecting anything didn't have her gun drawn. That's horrible! 

My moms purse was stolen right before Christmas in the church parking lot. Luckily we caught it Sunday and called on the cards 800$ + at K -Mart 200+ at Jen - X and 300$ At Target. Nobody photo I.D's we canceled the credit cards and shut the checking account down Monday morning. They continue to use checks and businesses are taking them! They also have our address. . . hopefully no criminal history?! Ah this world is changing! Who can you trust?

p.m - Good run with the girls today. We stuck together pretty good and it was amazing. We had a great pace going, that was the thing. A good solid place that everybody could handle that wasn't with the slowest girl or fast or competitive! Nobody was saying slow down. There still are a girl or two that take off but everybody had enough control to not chase and soon enough little by little they would decide to come back!! Still no pain but I'm really taking care of it.

Running with boys means absolutely no good! We started off at a jumping up and down pace but we eventually worked into a really good solid pace! It was nice and get this. . .no girls asked to slow down! We were going the right perfect way when one of the boys decided to take us on an 'adventure'. I've gone on the run before when it was legal but this time we went down a dirt path hoped across the rive thing on rocks (no balance) down big rocks and through bushes where I got my legs cut up and hair pulled! Then I got jabbed with the bob wire fence! THEN to top it off we got yelled at! Oh my! I was nervous. I KNEW IT WAS NOT A GOOD IDEA. . . THEN we trespassed again (they told me it was fine that time though!) ha! What a FUN adventure!

 I love running with Cassidy! She even agreed to get up early with me! Because of work I only had time to go 6. It worked though because Cassidy said she probably could not have made it 8 and well my knee started to hurt at the very end. We were going to do something fancy but my family is gone so. . . no drop of and pick up services. Thus we ended up just going sunrise. I haven't been down that way in a long time! It was actually nice. 

a.m - 3 with my DAD! It was a little colder out this morning although a great run! I absolutely love running in the morning because my whole day just feels good and perfect after. 

p.m - Dog Pound AT style today. I just jogged it nice and easy up to Hearts. Then from Zion I worked my pace up till I really had it going. Kaylee and Maddi H. made a light I didn't so they put some distance between us. I worked on catching Jake and then I caught Maddi and finished up strong. I felt really sick today I could tell I didn't eat enough lunch my stomach was burning starving twas painful! On the cool down back to the school I could just feel my IT band just really tighten up. Otherwise really good quick, quick run! I was really moving!

Goals this week: Monday, Wednesday, Friday morning runs with my dad. Get up to 40 miles total and get a good solid 8 or 9 in on Friday or Saturday.

Knee was feeling better until TODAY! Owch roller coaster hills were no good on it. Terrible hurting. It was lots of fun and good during but on the cool down after, holy cow. But, I hope we go on that run A LOT more! 

The BEST 8 miler EVER! Coach Holt had us running with the boys again. The pace was great. Every time the girls go on a long run it's slow. . .slow. . .slow! Today it was just fun. I only made it 4 with the boys before I needed to let go. At 4 miles my knee was twinging and I knew it was going to tighten fast so I dropped the pace a little to get it to last longer? I don't know but it's really hard to run when it twinges. It got feeling better so I picked it back up until the bridge and then that was the end. The rest was so painful all the way back to the school. It just gets to this weird point where I can not run. Oh-well! 

Dog Pound AT style! This was an interesting run. I started jogging the warm up to Hearts with an exchange student. She was really struggling and was walking so I kept going. When I got to Hearts I needed to turn her around so she wouldn't keep comings. The group past me ans started into their fast section and I went back and told her she was all good! From there I started the AT section. I was cruising and it felt good. I caught the group and PASSED them. The varsity boys I think were running with us to push us? It did not really work because they were not moving really fast for me to catch them and put  that much distance on them. Almost to the dog pound I picked my leg up to extend it and well that was the end of the AT for me. It's really gotten quite bad but I'm still working on, harder now then ever. . .must be done before track!

I'm officially an idiot! I really will figure out one day how to blog my miles consistently! 

I had to work today so I could not run with the team after school. I ran from work home with lots of little loops so the miles would add up! Still, not enough but rule one - Can not run past dark and rule two - not allowed to run alone. I got away with the second and I can sometimes but NEVER the first.

a.m - I ran from my house down town today. First day with no pain at all in my knee. I didn't realize it till 2 miles in that I was just feeling so good, best I have felt in a long time. This run actually surprised me. 

p.m - I left my house kind of late in the day but  I got my run in just before dark. I went up and around D.I finishing my running up and down and up and down 2450. I was just sitting and home craving hills and so I went for it. 

I think the blog said this is 9 miles. . . wow! 

Today coach told me and Kaylee we got to go up to level 3. It kind of surprised me because I'm not very fast compared to everybody else. I'm very excited to start on these workouts. I hope coach didn't mess up, or realize he messed up because I feel like it will help me get somewhere this season! I feel so much of everything just a little intimidated, excited, challenged, honored,  scared spitless but most of ready to go after it and give it my all!

2 mile warm up/ 4x ( 2x200 1x400) hills with 2 mile cool down

Oh my  Kaylee made me nervous but I made it and  my goal was  to hang on to her as much as I could. It really was not to bad . The first 2 sets were hard because I was about to pee my pants, me and Kaylee ran to a friends quick quick and well yeah. . .pretty much embarrassing BUT the rest of the workout went much better. I let the last 400 slip though, I wish I would have stuck it out more on that one!

a.m - 3 miles! WE HAVE A HUGE GROUP OF GIRLS . . . RUNNING TOGETHER!!!! Oh my goodness I think this was the best morning run ever. There was no pressure to stick together which was relaxing. The pace was great because it's a morning run. we seem to go at a quicker pace in the morning and nobody complains. Sweet success. I thought I would be sore but legs are not bad! 

p.m - ugh don't ask. . . .  8

.5 mile warm up with team and core stuff

2 mile warm up/ 3x1000's / 2 mile cool down

Best speed workout I have ever had with track today. We headed out on a 2 mile warm up got back and figured out my v-dot. I usually get weird working out on the track. I can never run on the track well but today it changed.

I really stuck with the times I was given or at least tried to stick with a solid pace and it made all the difference. I used to just go out and run them as fast as I could making my last always the worst because by the time I got to the last I was so wasted because I was running the first way to fast and not pacing it well. 

While running the workout I would always focus on how much I had left. If I had another lap and I was dead I would slow down and give in. It was a huge mental problem but coach fell back and ran with me during parts in today's workout, actually  key parts for me. He told me to think strong thoughts and I went from whimpering to thinking just go and feeling so strong and awesome. He showed up and parts where I wanted to fall back and it made me stronger pushing through those parts. 

Overall this was the best workout I have ever had for track. It changed my mind in a lot of ways! I'm ready for more of these. They are not easy but if I run them right they will be more beneficial.  

I got out a little early today so I ran .5 mile warm up with steph and then another .5 with Rachel. It was fun and felt good. After stretching and core exercises. The girls team decided to run a new 4. It was two runs combined and I knew it was not 4 but. . . we ran it. I ran with Rachel P. today and it was great. The other girls were going turtle pace. The pace me and Rachel were going was way, way doable but everybody was 'who's pushing the pace'. I hate that line with a passion. We got back and the boys were not back and when they did get back they had another .5 to do still. Which means we were way under. We ended up running an extra mile around the field. Then 8x striders and then weights! Fun Fun!!! 

Yesterday evening I was with some family showing them pictures my friends took from Haiti. My left shoulder blade area began to get uncomfortable (more the inside) but I made it through the pictures. After I was trying to walk it off because it was getting worse. It got hard to breathe and it was painful I couldn't get a full breath in. I ended up leaving to drive home. My left arm and shoulder went numb. By the time I got home I was in some serious pain and was out cold the rest of the night when I could finally relax a little. I couldn't move in certain ways this morning when I got up and I still breathing was hard and lifting. . .I was not feeling good the rest of the day but I got my run in at the rec center on a treadmill. Yucky.  

a.m - 3 miles of fun! Rachel ran with us today and had some funny stories. Overall we are starting to wake up and talk in the morning I love it! 

p.m 

.5 mile warm up/ Core / 2 mile warm up 3x (2x200 1x800 equal jog recovery) Hills 2 mile cool down = 9 miles?

Talk about one hard workout! 800 up a hill. . .and I made it!  I love getting into hard workouts because afterward you feel so good because you made it in good style. It boots your confidence. I tried holding on to Kaylee again today. I would slip by a could seconds on the 200's and a more on the 800's but I really dug in. On the last 800I let her chase me but I think she waited a little to long. She never caught me! Afterward we cooled down and really got chatting. It was neat-o!

.5 mile warm up and core stuff. 

I got to run with a large group of girls today. It was interesting.

a.m - We crawled today. I like it when we go fast on morning runs. I feel like I accomplish something. It's not bad though to tone it down a little. I don't really know.

p.m - 8 Miles. I started with the boys today but only ran with them from 2.5 mile into it. I forget to eat more, especially when I have morning runs. I get really hungry in the afternoons and start to starve during afternoon practice. The same thing happened on Monday with hills, I was starving. Stomach burning starving. I dropped back but still ran the whole 8 and a nice pace. Cowboy caught me towards the bridge and it pushed me when I was with him. Over all good run, I just really need to eat a snack? Or something.

I ran the .5 mile warm up with Vida and Carlos today! After we circled up for some stretching and Core stuff.

1.5 mile warm up / 20 minute fast pace / 1.5 cool down. + 4x200's 

Both me and Kaylee didn't have a watch today. Big no no. But,  Michael did so we made it! Only turned around 40 seconds late. This was a hard run for some reason. I had knots in my right calve before starting and  the legs were feeling a tad  Fatigued . Kaylee was in some pain today too. She has some nasty shin splints going on and knots in both her legs. We both struggled. Afterward we cooled down. . . .uphill! And finally the last of the workout 4x200's FAST!  

3 - MORNING RUN

4 miles - 1 to the park 2 barefoot 1 back and then 16 striders

I was so sore. I made it only because I wanted to make it to 50!

a.m - 3 miles 

p.m - .5 warm up / 2 mile warm up / 3(2x200's 1x800) / 2 mile cool down 

I FINALLY turned Kaylee in. My only regret is I did not turn her in sooner! That meant I was alone today and that was surprisingly okay. I tried to keep it rolling and worked hard on the 800 and switched to quick feet on the 200's. I do like it better when I have somebody to go against and push towards. Ran the cool down with the guys. It was fun!

3 - I'm a ding dong! I thought everyday mornings started this week. My dad worked too late so I asked Trevor if he would go with me. Oops

4 - Each miles! I ran with Kassidy, Rachel and Megan the rest turned around somewhere? It was fun and the pace was great. 8 striders after the run.

3- Nice morning. I was kind of tired and debating about going since I ran yesterday morning. I ended up going only because waffle Wednesday was today!

4- This was supposed to be an 8. I was trying to hurry but I realized I was not going to make it back in time. I had to take the CPT by Saturday and one girl said she had to take it 3 times. My parents got mad because I said I couldn't miss practice. We compromised and I got to go on a quick run and get my brain functioning and then take the test. I passed and was put into the English 1010 and Math 1210! Now that is over . . .back to running!

I need to work on icing and stretching! My calves have the biggest most painful knots ever in them but now I'm working and focusing on them it's better. Just an easy 4 today. It went by way quick. It was just me, Cassidy and Chandis. After striders, stretching, icing, stretching parent meeting! 

a.m - 3 miles! I wish the girls would really learn how to show up and show up on time! 

TEMPO!!! 

.5 mile warm up / core / 2 mile warm up / 20 min tempo / 2 mile cool down / 4x200's /weights!

I'm so thankful it is the end of the week with the exception of Saturdays run. I took off before the boys so I could relax about finding my fast pace. It was a good! I made it to the same place me and Kaylee made it last time and last time we went over by 40 seconds! Towards the end I got tired but I pushed through it! 

Most horribly slow run of my life! After I went swimming! Swimming is not all that easy, I was toast. 

a.m - Old man hills 2 mile warm up / 4x (2x200's 1x400) / 2 mile cool down 

p.m -3

a.m -3 sets - 2 min hard, 1 min easy; 1 min hard, 30 sec easy; 30 hard, 30 sec easy

Not a bad run. I really tried to dig it in today. I need to work on relaxing into the pain and getting used to that. It sounds funny but it makes since. Now just how to do it?

p.m 3

I felt this crap coming on Monday so I have been taking vitamin C and so hopefully this will get better fast. I could not run today though. I feel like crap everything aches and my head hurts! Blah. . . I tried but I didn't get that far before I was done. 

a.m -  I woke up this morning feeling good. My cold and everything was cleared up. I got done with the 2 mile warm up and I thought I was going to puke everywhere. I made it home! 

p.m - I'm feeling better so now the trick is to find somebody to run with this evening? 

I'm feeling better but still a little weak. My mom went with me to watch me as I ran around the track! This is tough. I tried to find a group last night or even just somebody. . .

Chandis came out and ran with me today. We just did AC because we are both blah! I think I will be ready again  Monday to get going. Kind of a disappointing week but it was tough to run because I got sick or could not find somebody to run with or have somebody watch me run. I don't like breaks! 

2 mile warm up / 4x1000's / 2 mile cool down

I ran Megan out toward her hills for my warm up and her warm up too. She is getting really good and it's fun to be around her because of her positive attitude. At the 1 mile mark I turned around because of my workout of 1000's on the track. The first two I did correct and didn't stop during the break and jogged it right into the start of the next one. Those first two were great I hit my times. Haley and Cassidy stopped me on the last because they thought they only had two 1000's? I don't really know. Between the 3rd and 4th I wish I wouldn't have stopped. It's okay though. I hit my times or fairly close. I went over on the last one by a few seconds.  I don't know the my third time because I thought I started my watch but didn't. Then I did my 2 mile cool down!

P.M. -  They yucky gym! I made up a whole conversation of Hannah Montana because I didn't have head phones. Soap operas are much better.

a.m - 3 miles gym! Why the heck didn't I get the notice that we are meeting everyday at the school. I thought Tuesdays and Thursdays we were by ourselves! Problems solved, no more treadmills. 

p.m - .5 warm up/ core / 2 mile warm up / 1x600 2x400 3x300/ 6x200 (equal recovery)/ 2 mile cool down 

I was so excited for this workout all day. I always picture them easy and just feel like I float through them but then reality hits and it's hard! The 600 was fast. I was supposed to be maybe 2-3 seconds behind Kaylee and. . . I got nervous and she was going fast and yup it was 15 seconds faster then what the Vdot had it mind and I felt it. I didn't want the rest of the workout to go down hill so I jogged it out and got ready for the 400's. The first one I thought I was way ahead of time again so I slowed it down and hit over the time. Oops. The next was perfect. The 300's were hard but great I really wanted a solid workout so I worked for it. I'm pretty sure we hit under every time. Then the 200's just stunk. I was tired of breathing after a few in and just tired in general. 2 mile cool down with Kaylee after.

3 miles! I'm so happy spring break is over and that we are back running as a team. What better morning to run as a team then Waffle Wednesday! =)

6 miles - It was hot outside today. I didn't sleep last night at all very well. Made for a crappy run. After we were doing striders and I had goose bumps and I felt so cold and like throwing up and then I turned my hands over and they were pools of water! Ugg. . . no good. I went home and tried to do homework but I feel asleep on my text book. Which means I didn't set my alarm clock for morning run but I felt better!

Worst, best run of my life. It started out really crappy. I was running with Rachel today because all the other girls bailed on us. Both of us were extremely sore and not looking forward to the Hurricane track meet. I have never gone so slow or been in so much pain on a run. I don't think my legs should of hurt because this week as been fairly easy. But they hurt. . . we finally made it to the pond and noticed the boys had gotten in. So we figured we could! It felt so good! It was cold and we swam around in it. After getting out it turned into the best run ever. 

I talked to my dad tonight and I feel ready to race! It only took all week to get there! 

a.m 3

This was a good race for me to start off the season. I felt really strong and I think I did really well. There are some things I can start to work on. I need to work on running the best at the last and make sure I pick a solid spot on the track and speed up.

Last year 15:47.58

This year it was somthing like 13:49 and I feel like I can do better still!

Geeze. I have always been HORRIBLE at track. I was dreading these races but after racing Friday I feel like I'm beginning to get it.

Last years time 6:58.74 YIKES . . .

This year 6:20 and I feel like I can do better!

a.m - 3

p.m - .5 mile warm up/ 2 mile warm up/ 4x4min T pace / 2 mile cool down

pretty easy chill workout.

a.m - 3

p.m - .5 mile warm up / 2 mile warm up / 2xmile repeats 1 min recovery / 4x200's HARD / 2 mile cool down

Goal time 7:20

1st mile 6:50

2nd mile The stop watch stopped going into lap two but the 1st 3rd and 4th laps were on time so I'm guessing 7:20!

a.m - 3

p.m - Way sore and crappy but it was a good 6 miles with .5 mile warm up

a.m - 3

p.m -  Sandburgs Pond. The only reason I like this run is because of the pond. . .the rest just hurts!

Desert Hills Track Meet:

Running is a life long process. There is a lot to learn about yourself and your running. Today's race just happened to be one of those hard learning experience. I had a really hard race, I really don't understand why. My dad afterward on our way home shared a quote with me that he memorized in his pursuit of sports.

"Let others cheer the winning man, there's one I hold worthwhile. Tis he who does the best he can, then loses with a smile. Beaten he is, but not to stay, down with the rank and file. For he shall win some other day, who loses with a smile." (-unknown)

This race I didn't choose to loose with a smile. I was trying to do my best and I got discouraged. In part I think I was comparing myself. Another part is that I'm upset at the fact that I am  not were I wanted to be this track season. I don't know what running has in store for me. I don't know if I'll ever win a race. I don't know if in track I will qualify for BYU and State this season or next or maybe not at all. I don't know if I'll ever be able to help our girls team out at region. I do know that I will continually do the best I can, I will train as hard as a I can so that when I don't make my goals, when I'm not where I want to be that I can still loose with a smile. Because I want to be happy when I race. I want to be happy that I gave it everything I had.  I do still feel down and it still hurts inside but I wont be down for long. I hope each time that I can grow a little stronger, and continue going after my goals and learn the lesson of loosing with a smile. 

a.m 3

I went and got my hips fixed today! They started hurting really bad after SUU all the way till region. I was hoping the two weeks off would help but they were still really bad. I got them fixed though and something was way out of place, most likely from the steeple chase. . .oops! But all better! I can't run for the next two days just so it can heal. 

3 before I went to go watch ALL my friends graduate. It's amazing what running thinking time can do for you. I was really sad coming home after year book signing and stuff so I went running. I got time to just relax and be sad. I thought about how next year will be being a loner. But I also thought about my freshman year running and how I had a group of senior friends that involved me in everything. So, maybe life is not all about me anymore and maybe I can return the favor to somebody else! I'm still upset over but I'm very thankful for all my running buddies and close friends; Chandis, Rachel P., Micci, Cassidy, Luke, Tason, Steph. and well . . this has been the best year ever! 

I kind of did the whole senior sunrise things so I didn't get up to go running till 10! Thank goodness it is just so nice outside still! And this whole getting back in shape thing is kicking my butt. It's easier than other times because I did a lot of swimming and biking and lifting but. . . I should not have to work that hard for just a 3 miler. 

OH YES!!!! I love running with the team and with the girls!!! I'm so happy to be back and running with people! I thought it would be an ugly run today because I was not allowed to run all last week but the pace was really easy. 

It's TUESDAY, kids running camp! We went out 5 first. I started fast with Megan and then I couldn't stop but before we dropped down into the canyon I turned around to run with a group. It was a fun run. . .except for the ugly hill. But an ugly hill makes everything else look so beautiful. I was actually wanting to do this run today, crazy we did it. After we did the kids running camp which was super fun and I got to hang out with little Boyer, Taylor and Dylan. I had a fabulous time! 

Me and Megan drove everywhere today to get people to support the teams kid running club. . .yup we got 25$ from Rebel Sports and a bunch of promises that will hopefully come true at the end of the week!

Oh yeah my sister asked me if I would help her with running. It's going to be fun. I also lifted today and then later did pool aerobics with some friends.

Oh man, my legs are sore! I lifted weights yesterday and well I guess it worked! OW!!!! I ran with Maddi today because I promised her if she came I would run with her and it was FUN. She really pushes me. I have a feeling we will hopefully push each other a lot this season. Once she turned around I ran to the 4 mark and then ended up running back with Rach, Megan and Mr. Roberts back! It was grand. 

Oh yeah doubling it today and well hopefully everyday. My sister asked me if I would start running with her and push her. We only did 5x 2 min run, 4 min walk. It was easy and it was great to be with her. I'm so excited she is starting to run. I hope she finds the love for it to continue for fun and not just physical fitness. Running with her today reminded me how hard it was when I started running. But you just have to keep pushing past your limits. After we did a pool workout!

Ran two miles down dog pound and then turned around and ran 2 miles back up. It was a really good run actually. Megan is really pushing it to stay with us. She really is inspirational. She wants a varsity place really bad, I know if she keeps working like this she'll get one. 

Later. . . . 

Core Workout- P90X =) X Complete

Running with my sister (5x (Run 2 min walk 4) X Complete

I just realized I have been blogging on the wrong week! With school out I really don't know the date. But this is all supposed to be on June 7-12! I'm too lazy to move everything though so. . . . 

Great run today it was fast! Barefoot was great except I got my feet nice and cut up, I even drew blood. whoop whoop!

Lifted weights, P90X abs too! 

p.m -  I went running with my sister and I pushed her a little harder and doubled her set so we did 10x 2 min run 4 min walk. We hit 3 miles and she has never ever ran that far before! It was really a big accomplishment for her and she was so excited and by the end we ran 4.3 miles. So not only did she hit 3 she went above and hit 4! It was really exciting for her and me too! I think now we'll be bumping up the running timing and minimizing the walking time. Good bye 2x4! 

Legs are pretty sore from weights today, actually really sore. At least I can tell I lifted enough! The 6 miles was nice and lonely! =( 

Blogged all week last week on the wrong week so hopefully today is the 14! 

Warmed up bare foot with the team. We did drills as a team and stretched and did core stuff then headed out on Park Way run. I kept wondering when we were going to get onto the dirt or hit the dirt . . . and there wasn't any! There was a new road instead. I was kind of bummed out. I like running off the road and in the desert and people keep destroying things. I ran with Jess and Rachel for the first little bit then me and coach took off. It felt really good. I have not picked it up to that pace since track ended and it felt great. I worked on letting my arms loose and I'll have too keep working on that. It felt really different but I felt a little more strong running that way. Once step and a time and I'll get there! 

I finished it all up this morning with P90X abs and weights at the Gym! I'll have a hard time lifting with the team because I work in the evenings so I get as much done as I can in the mornings. 

Ran then lifted weights at the gym I have to work every day this week. 

This was really a tough run for me today. I was running alone and it made it even harder to just keep pushing. For some reason my whole body was tense and I could barely run. It was crap. I stopped a couple time and just wanted to call it done because it was just so horrible but I finished. 

Weights 

Maddi's i pod was broke today so she had to talk to me the whole run and it was fun! We talked it up!

Nice easy 4 today again with Maddi. We found out it was a little short when Megan got back so I ran half mile loop around the rec center with Meg and Angel. 

My Blog is caught up! Now just to keeping it this way. 

I ran 5 today with Coach Roberts. It was actually a fairly easy quick run. I thought it would be a little more difficult for me since I lifted Monday, Tuesday and then tried the acceleration program. My legs were sore and fatigued but I was able to run right through it.

Cool story about my sister. . . .She decided she wanted to start running to get physically fit. She asked me to help her get into it so I had her start out on the same program me and my dad started on. 5 x 2 min run 4 min walk. We did this for a couple days before she bumped it up to 10 sets. She enjoyed the feeling of accomplishing 3 miles and even going on to and over 4, which she had never done before. I came home from a date at midnight and she came and got me and told me she wanted to go on a run. Remarkable my dad gave us permission to go. I set my watch for the 2 min running time. We hit 2 minutes and I went into walking and she kept running. So I started running after her and telling her the 2 minutes was up. She accomplished running 3 miles without stopping, that run. Every evening since we have been running 3 consistent miles. She is starting to get more comfortable with the distance and is able to trust she can go a little faster every time. She is beginning to love it.

3 miles around the pond and 2 miles barefoot. Youth Conference the next few days.

I was so excited to go to practice today because me, Rachel and Cassidy were going to run together and tell stories. It only lasted 2 miles though because they wanted to go 4! I ran the rest with Coach Roberts and Megan. It was a really good run. After we still needed an extra half so we went back to look for Jessica and Rachel. Didn't find them, they must have come back a different way. 

My legs. . . .hurt. . . . really.. . . bad. . . . . .!!!!! Weights. . . are . . . .EVIL, but addicting. I started off nice and easy my first mile was 8:27 but then I decided maybe I should run with the girls so I backed off and ran with them. It was a lot better that way. We played 20 ?'s and that made the time fly. But I am kind of worried about the pace? 

I ran in my mom's running shoes this morning. I probably shouldn't because they are not the right kind but. . .  My old shoes are toast. Yesterday it felt like my foot was going to break. I almost didn't finish the run because I was a little worried. I didn't have time to pick up new ones so I'll go today! NEW SHOES!!!! 

Kids camp after practice. It was really neat to watch those kids race. Today I thought about what a nice idea this was and how great it has been for these kids. I hope it makes a difference. I've been helping the 7th 8th grade girls and today I ran the race with them. They all stayed pretty clumped together and it was cool to watch them push each other. They even listened to me and and sprinted in the last 100 meters. Inspirational! 

Today we ran out in the desert again. It was a new loop to me and it definitely had its up and downs. I ran with Coach Roberts, Maddi, and Megan on the way out. I took off at about 2 miles into it and just worked my way up. I was really sore and it was just so hard. I wanted to turn around a couple times but lately when things have gotten the slightest bit hard I have thought  about Region and State and doing well personally and also as a girls team. It helps me push through almost anything and dig into the pain. I kept going and at the turning around point I was feeling much better. I enjoyed the next two miles where I hit a 7:36 and 8:12. I really, really enjoyed those two miles. I was just in love with running. The last mile and half I struggled big time. Probably because I blew it on those faster miles but I couldn't resist. I'm glad Holt slowed down to run with me because it helped me finish it up decently. Up and down! Started of bad the middle was great and the end was just fine. I love running!

3 miles around the pond then 3 miles barefoot. I was so exhausted it was difficult. I went to the lake all day before and then had a pool party in the evening. And then I didn't sleep last night! Ah! So today was difficult!

I didn't sleep again last night! Ah!!! So waking up today was so difficult but I made it. We met at middleton and it was actually a pretty fun run. I didn't recognize it was so uphill on the way out till we were running back and it was all down hill. My legs are numb, everything is numb because I'm so tired. I had a great conversation with Megan and  Jessica on the way back. Ideas!!! We have some really cool girls!!!! 

I keep forgetting to blog the nights I lift weights. But I have been lifting a lot. And I am a firm believer in lifting weights. I feel stronger on the days I'm not sore. Tonight we went and lifted and we talked about "You train slow, you race slow". My dad recommended on our longer runs at practice I either finish the last mile or two at a faster pace. With the philosophy "run best at the last" or after, by myself, I go to the track and run some quick 400's or 800's. Also the idea of getting on a the treadmill and turning it on 6:30 pace and slowly building up to 2 or so miles on it. All of which I have been working on. When we start getting into speed workouts we will see what the new plan is. I'm so thankful I have a dad who really cares about running and my progress. Tonight after lifting weights we went to the track and ran a quick 400. My body felt weird because it was weak but I felt powerful and really concentrated on my form.

3 miles. . . bad day! I was so sick by the time we finished though. And I'm leaving out of town. Settle down stomach. Please! 

Running in Fish Lake and 9,000 feet. 7, 000 feet difference from home! My dad said it was 3 miles to the lodge so I kept running and running and running. That was not 3 miles! We went back and clocked it and it was 5!!! Finishing every run was up hill as it winded back up to the campsite. This first day my dad followed behind me in the truck and was having me pump my arms and get a move on. I was sucking air by the time I made it back, fun stuff. Challenging but, great fun! 

A little less today because we didn't get off the lake until late and I had dinner at 2:30. I loved this run. I ran past some really cool cabins and actually ran into a DEER! Freaked me and the deer out! I finished the last mile really hard again up hill. 

Just an easy 4. It was really stormy today and I just about bailed on the idea of running. It was blowing and pouring and lightening everywhere but this was the best run by far. I love the smell of rain and watching the lake when I ran. Ah so neat! 

My last run up here. It has been so fun and so hard to breath but I love being out here. I don't want to come home and run. I had to cut the mileage here because I didn't have a ton of time but I'm glad I made the time I had to for running. I enjoy being different places. 

8 miles of pure misery. This was such a hard run for me. I ran every day when I was out of town. Running at 9,000 feet and working on my breathing. I thought when I came home to run it would be easier. But I felt like I was suffocating the whole time like somebody just shut my lungs off. There were a few times I would start to worry because I was having such a hard time. Towards the end I just got sick of breathing and moving and I just wanted to stop everything. I stayed with the girls and didn't slow there pace but it was misery! No fun! Why? I seriously ran everyday up there and the last mile I ran hard, hard up hill! 

DEVISTATED 

Today was a hard day again! I have been out of town for the last 2 weeks up in the mountains. It was nice and cold up there. The 1^st week when I was in Fish Lake I ran everyday but it was 4/5 miles because of time. The 2^nd week I ran Monday, Tuesday and then left to girl’s camp. We kind of ran up there but not really. Coming back home to the heat and upping it all the way to 8 miles with a mile of it straight up hill didn’t float well. This especially didn’t float well with the lack of sleep (due to the lovely accident that took place) and hydration. I was also running by myself today which is never good. I hope when the season starts that some miracle will happen. Last year was so fun there was a huge group of girls to run with and I’m missing them to the extreme (Steph, Rach, Chandis, Cassidy, Me). This year Jessica and Rachel will be at soccer,  Kaylee runs with the boys, Rachel has her own routine and . . . then there is me. As if that was not enough for me to handle today I’m realizing I just gave up what may have been my last travel experience, yet again! I have had so many opportunities to travel the country over the past 4 years and I have given up nearly every experience with the exception of going to California once.  My 3 best friends are on their way up to Washington, Oregon and Canada without me. An opportunity to travel for free and be able to see all this different places and it goes through the same week as my cross country camp. Next year I’m doing high school and college so I cannot travel and all and then in the summer I’m working as a CNA and then will start school where the next 9 years I’ll be broke and unable to travel. I was just barely given a second chance where I can run away up to Salt Lake and leave now but I’m not. Every little bit of my wishes I could. Give me a day and I’ll be over it. I’ve given it up because I love Cross Country a little bit more. I’m staying home to train because I cannot run as much as I need to up there and be ready for the first race. As well as the cross country camp. But as for today I am an unhappy camper.

Went and lifted weights with my dad tonight. It was great to talk to him. After we went to the high school and I ran 3x200's all out. I only planned on 2 but the first one was great. The second one I didn't get better though so I ran a third and blew it away with a 33! 38, 42, 33

I'm feeling so much better today. Last night I got to go lift weights with my dad and talk to him about everything. I feel better! However, still no girls to run with today. I made the best of it though and hopped in with a group that is WAY faster then me. I don't know if it helped or not. I think I relaxed a little too much though because I knew I would be hanging in the back. I still dug in and pushed it hard. My arms hurt though from lifting.

a.m 5.5 miles! I ran with Cassidy and Rachel today! We talked the entire time and it was SO much fun! The time just flew by. It was a nice run too because of the cloud cover and a nice breeze. We also ran through the sprinklers at a church. 

p.m HOLY HANNAH can I say it's freaking HOT outside? It's so hard to get motivated to run in the heat but I need to get my doubles in and get used to running it. 

a.m - 6 miles. 3 on the road and 3 on the grass. It started out great but by the time we hit the grass the pace was crawling. I think running without shoes for the first time in awhile and at such a slow pace kind of hurt my achilles. Not injury though just sore so I need to make sure I stretch it really well. The 3 miles on the grass got long and tedious after awhile but. . . it was okay!

p.m - I had to work today so I packed my running clothes and ran home after work at 5:30 in the evening. It was not hot at all in fact it was really nice. When I got home me and my dad headed to the track. I did a quick little warm up and stretched  and  then did 4x100's all out sprints I was hitting 17's and then 2x40 yard dashes. After finishing those up we headed back to my work to lift weights!

Today we met at the Pine View park to run. Warmed up and then headed out. Nobody to run with today because there were ditchers that went to the lake. So I ran the first mile at a normal pace then I turned around and started running with different groups of girls to push them up. I was worried at first I would couldn't get a good workout for me if I slowed down but it was not bad at all. I would run till they were about a half mile back and then head back to get the next group of girls. It was really fun. Those girls have a lot of potential they just need a little pressure and motivation to keep going and a good goal to work towards. It was fun and I enjoyed being with them. 

I don't know how far I ran because my watch stopped working!!! 

I know today is not a long run day but I love running long early in the morning on Saturdays! Today was not too early we started at around six at the top of Stone Cliff. From there we ran a huge loop around Washington fields and then came out of the industrial road and up 2450 to my house. It was so fun! The miles were flying by so quickly and it was so easy and comfortable. I love long runs on Saturday mornings!! 

a.m - I ran with Megan today and we ran 5 out towards middleton. I thought it was 8 today so 5 was just simply easy! On the way back with started to pick up the level 1 girls and slowed the pace and ran with them and pushed them hard. It was way neat to see them push and try and go with us when we asked them too. Taylor ran with us all the way back. 

p.m - I worked all day so I missed the afternoon run and lifting weights with the team. When I got off work at 5:30 I ran home (3 miles) and then ate, FHE and stuff then headed back to lift weights. I finished at 10! It was a long day today but I got everything in! 

a.m - I was so tired this morning. I felt like I just finished working out and then I was going at it again. This morning we did hills 3x1 min 4x30 sec. FAST! I ran the warm up over to the hill with some girls who were running way quick. Blah. Then I ran the hills with Coach Roberts. It was nice to not run them by myself. I really pushed it hard and tried to drive me knees forward instead of up. We cooled down back to the elementary school after. 

Kids camp was so fun! I'm so excited that I have been able to work with the older girls (7-8th grade)! Every week it is so much fun to warm up, stretch, talk and play running games with them. Even though there is a bit of an age gap they feel like equals and like friends. Today during the race they were all right around each other so I could switch around and encourage them. They are tough!

p.m - 3 miles after working!

a.m - Today we did grass loops. Me and Megan took off and went and invented our own 3 miles but it was just wondering through the neighborhoods. Then we did 2 on the grass in the sprinklers and STRIDERS up at the elementary school! 

p.m- Arrived at CROSS COUNTRY CAMP!  We did an easy 3 around the lake and up a little hill!

a.m- 5 mile out and back run. It was an okay run today I'm still adjusting a little to the altitude. It was me, maddi, Coach Roberts and it was fun! 

p.m - 3 miles. Today we did goal setting and one of our goals was to run as a girls team on our easy 3 mile runs. It sounded fun and easy in the beginning but I forgot how difficult it really was. This was an absolute horrible run where I tried to put on  smile and not be frustrated but the truth was I really wanted to freak out! The pace was so slow I was casually walking but I didn't want to do that so I jumped up and down in place. I don't mind going slow but there is a HUGE gap in the girls team. The girls were whining and carrying on and everybody was yelling at each other and that is when I hate running. Happened once last summer, I honestly don't know what to do! 

a.m - 5 miles! Me, Maddi, and coach ran the first half and then Megan and Jessica joined us on the second. It was fun. For the last half we played Eye-spy! But then I could tell the girls lost interest after awhile. I'll have to think of some more fun games, conversations, to keep everybody interested and make runs fun! 

p.m. - We saved a horse! It was really a neat experience. I loved the 2 mile run down the canyon because it was beautiful and relaxing. Funnest run while we were up here. 

a.m - Today we ran out for 7 miles and then got shuttled back. Today Me, Megan, Jessica and Maddi all ran together and it was the best run I have had all summer. The first mile was difficult to just settle into a breathing pattern and get the legs moving we also had to make a quick stop at the bathroom but after that it was smooth. About 3 miles in our pace dropped too! We all just got in this mode and it was great. I think that is the first time I have really just relaxed into a run. The last mile I kind of came out of it because I was freaking out about a hill that was not that big! The trail was nice though and I wish we got to run on roads like that everyday! 

a.m - I beat my fear! Last time we ran the Coral Canyon loop I made it to the top of the hill and I was done (dehydrated, tired, lack of miles from traveling)! But this time I felt so powerful and strong running up the hill and then down the hill all the way out to the 4 turn around. On the way back I was kind of nervous going up the hill but I pushed right through it and it was so easy, I just told myself I could do it. This run kind of got broken up though. I wanted to run with the girls so at the top of hill and the 4 turn around and at the top of the hill again we stopped and waited but we stuck together on the rest! 

p.m - I DIDN'T HAVE TO WORK TODAY, IT'S A MIRACLE!!!! So I went to the school and ran with the team and then did some weights and watched them jump. I like lifting weights with my dad a little better I really get a tough workout and work a lot of different muscles I also lift a little heavier weights. The run with the girls was good too. We were going very slow however and it made my calves hurt and tighten up, probably because of the straight up and and down motion.

a.m - My legs were so sore and had so many knots in them I was ready to cry on the warm up. I can say I honestly believe it was because of the slow, slow afternoon run! I can go slow but we I'm doing calf raises for 3 miles. . . How is this going to work! Anyway 2 mile warm up 2x300 minute fast pace, to ease into 1000 with a 3 minute recovery. I pushed it hard but because my legs hurt I was really tense and not running smooth and just fighting it. How do you relax into pain? Ah boy! I'm glad we are easing into 1000 maybe then I can relax a little and keep madly attempting. 

Anybody know the mileage on this run?

Last day of kids club but not for me!! The girls I coached are coming to the high school Tuesdays and Thursdays . . .FOR SURE and they are ALL racing Wednesday up in Cedar! 

p.m - I didn't get to shower all day but why would I when I get to go sweat again in evening runs?! Yuck!

a.m - Today we got an easy day of just 4 miles, heavenly! I needed this break! I started off running with Cassidy and Megan but I kind of got tempted to go with Rachel. So I went with her for a minute but she always has to be a step in front of you and it was an easy day and so I back off and went back and ran with the girls. It was better for me that way! 

Today was another easy day! My legs have needed it as have we pick up afternoon runs every evening.

I had to work today. At least I got that one day off to run with the girls. That was a great day. By the time I finished work today though it wasn't even hot out. So I waited for my dad and we went and ran a mile repeat.  He wanted me to practice a 7 minute mile and to see what it felt like so I could find that pace and stick it in a race. I ended up hitting 7:20. . .but I was not disappointed. I'm glad I got out and did that mile because I noticed a few things with my form. I also couldn't see the road so I was a little hesitant to where I was stepping. Overall good evening run with that push!

My coach and my dad think a lot of like because today we did a push section in our 5 mile workout. Today we met at a park across town and ran 2.5 out from it. On the way back we picked it up for the 2 miles. 

The other evening I was watching this Ryan Hall video and besides the fact that it was inspirational it was interesting to watch him run. Lately I have also watched the NCAA women's distance track races and some other things. One thing I noticed is that I bet they feel pain but they don't let there form show it. It's totally mental. They stay so strong in there form and look so focused. I thought about it last night when I was running and it was the FIRST time I have relaxed into the pain and kept going very smoothly. Now that was only a mile and today was two but I did the exact same thing. My first split was 6:50 and my next was 6:57 (probably because of cross roads and lights) And I was running so smooth, I was not fighting it at all.

I don't know how I will handle repeats because they are short and really fast. But it takes practice. And I will keep working on it. But I'm so excited that I'm starting to get there.

My sister road the bike next to me why I ran. We started at our house and ended up at my grandparents. 

.5 mile warm up/stretch/core workout/ 2 mile warm up/3x1000's/1.5 cool down 

a.m - 3x1000's! Tough stuff. These are hard because of the pace. If I was aiming for something knew how fast they would need to be, it would be easier. Until then I just ran them all as hard as I could. We did a 2 mile warm up and 1.5 mile cool down. 

p.m - Even 3, I'm glad! Felt great to run it all out. 

a.m - Oh my goodness it's magic. I was fine yesterday and today my shins feel like they have been shattered! The whole 5 miles was painful. But the good new is this happens but all I have to do is take care of myself. IBU, Ice and massage the muscles in my legs. This was a good wake up call that I need to stretch after work outs (especially more intense workouts) and ice and roll out my legs on a regular basis. 

p.m - I know this is bad but my shins hurt so bad that I cut this run out. 

a.m - Went out to Coral Canyon for a change and tried running to the dump with Kaylee and Chandis! 

p.m - Today we had awhile till we needed to load the bus to head to Cedar so our coach talked to us and showed us some pretty cool videos. One of my favorites that I have not forgotten was the Ben Comen video. I remember watching it my freshman year.

Part II - My brother raced today in the 6-8th grade race. He is in 6th grade. As an 8th grader I ran that exact same race, first race ever. I had not really trained and had no idea what was going on other than I was dragged up there. I never finished that race. I quit. There was nobody to tell me it was okay and that it would hurt and that I would regret it forever if I gave up. Today I watched my brother, Ben,  just having a really hard time in the back. I knew I couldn't run with him because "that's against the rules" but I ended up running with him because that's what I needed to do. He stopped several times and told me he couldn't do it. But I encouraged him and told him he could. It broke my heart! He didn't give up and he finished. He took last, but he finished and he gave it his all and I'm so proud! 

Part III - I raced after him and it went well. First race of the season so it was difficult. But I look forward to more races

Last Part - After having watched those videos today, watching my brother and team mates race and having the girls jumping all around telling me how excited they were about their times . . . I realized how blessed I am to be on this team and be a part of it. The kids I run with are different. They are the best friends anybody could find. Our team believes in each other, from the from the first guy to the last girl everybody is important. We support and cheer for each other, sincerely! It's a team you can go to and always know your accepted for who you are. I can go on about this team, our team, forever! But running is different in many ways. There is honestly something magical about running and also the people that run, and especially this team.

a.m - I'm so sad that I missed the girls this morning. I set my alarm and everything and it's one of those mornings you find out your alarm clock died. I was so upset when I woke up at 7:30! SO UPSET! I still could get the run in because I don't go to school till 12 but still.

p.m - Alright that's it! To top of a bad . . .couple of days! My legs got tight and knotted up so my shin started to hurt. And I ignored it and then it got kind of bad so I had my sister rub it out and then the next morning (day of race) I iced. I got a burn on my calf from that! So I went to Mark for the burn and he ended up taping my foot. It didn't hurt at all I raced on it just fine, ran on it today just fine. I took the tape off after practice and my skin came off with the tape on the arch of my foot! OW!!!! Angry face. My shin feels better but now I have a burn and a blister as a result of "trying" to take care of myself. Maybe I just shouldn't do anything anymore! 

 I ran with  Megan today because I didn't want to run a lone so I ran 5 with her and another mile when I got back to the high school for a grand total of 6!

a.m - Ah this week is so sketchy with the double runs. It has been tough! But since I'm missing skin on my foot and I didn't have a trainer to take care of it my parents told me "NO RUNNING". BOOO! 

p.m - I got my foot taken care of! The trainer told me not to run but it didn't hurt during the 1.5 mile warm up so I went for the hard workout. I couldn't let Kaylee be the only girl out there working her butt off. The first 800 at 5K pace was really solid. The 1.5 mile at 10K pace was okay but when I went for my second 800 at 5k pace I was about cross eyed because I had to pee so bad! I was bouncing and I knew we couldn't stop during this workout but. . . On my way out to start the 1.5 at 10K pace I decided I can keep going and not do as good or I can quickly run to the restroom and be able to run just fine. So I ran to the bathroom and then ran back out and finished. I'm not going to lie this is the toughest workout I have faced. There were no brakes and it was hard to get my legs going quick again or keep myself pushing on the longer sections. I slacked off a few times. But it's a good workout I like it and next time I will try and push harder!

I ran early because then I worked all day and then I had a final party with all my friends! 

a.m - 7 with Rachel! She is going off to BYU and man am I going to miss running with her! 

p.m - 3 before we left for the funeral 

I thought the funeral would have no effect on me and that it would be short and simple and I could run and there would be no problem but. We woke up early this morning got ready for the funeral and well it was actually a emotionally tough day. There was the funeral services and then going to the grave site. After we went to a lunch and then home to change. After we changed we left to go back to some families house where we sorted through some stuff. It was an all day ordeal. I didn't want to ask my parents to leave and come follow me in a car and I didn't really want to leave my family either. So I know it's horrible but this time I just took the day off and didn't worry about it anymore. 

a.m - 3 and WE ARE TRAVELING HOME EARLY! Afternoon practice here I come! 

p.m - Due to traveling all day with no water today was difficult. We ran up into Green Springs. After we had 2 hard 200's, which I actually enjoyed! 

a.m - 3 miles 

p.m - 600, 800, 1000, 1200

a.m - 3 miles! I love running with Megan and Kaylee in the mornings. It's not just running together we are really becoming friends! Good friends and talking with them is enjoyable and something I look forward to. 

p.m - 4 with Megan and Madi

I have been so excited for this race all week! I know it's a fast course and I love it but I was nervous when they told me the course changed. Especially after looking at the map and this stretch of long road. I was so nervous that I couldn't tell if I was sick or if I had bad butterflies but it was the butterflies in the end. Our girls team warmed up and stretched out. The race was amazing. A lot of times when I just wanted to give in I wouldn't and I would push through it. It made finishing, great and I could smile! 

I heard some rumor that we took second and 5 points off of Cedar but I didn't really believe it. At the awards though they called our name as 2nd PLACE and ONLY 5 POINTS OFF CEDAR!!!! THAT IS AMAZING! Our girls team has come SO far and we are still growing. Best race of the season so far! 

a.m - 3 miles with Megan and Kaylee. It is so fun running with them. Because we have really become friends. Not just in running but aside from running too. And it talking to them in the morning is just great! =)

p.m - 7 miles with a lot of different girls. It was fun! 

a.m - 3 miles! These morning runs have really become enjoyable. It's cooler and the company is great! 

p.m - 5x3 minute push sections on the 1000 loop course. These were really great!  I wore my watch so I could pick up the last minute or so and to know the different paces I was running at.

a.m - Another really great morning run! I'm tired in the mornings but everything is just fine when I start running. It feels great to get these morning runs in and to talk to the girls and just overall lots and lots of fun! 

p.m -2x(.5 mile 5K pace 1.5 10K pace) No BREAKS!

All I can say is this was REALLY hard. I knew my legs were a little taxed going into it but I mentally prepared to do better and I kind of disappointed myself. I started off strong with Megan 3:20 or something coming off the track. Going back onto the track I was at 19:50 so still doing okay but then it just went down hill. I was running with Megan but we ended up spliting. It was nice pushing with her for a time though. I let the heat get to my head. And when I gave in it really just took me over. The problem was I gave in. I didn't stay strong. I am disappointed with myself and I don't like feeling that way after a hard workout. But I give myself credit in that I didn't quit or stop and my legs really hurt. All the same though not really an excuse.

a.m - 3 with ALL the girls this morning. I enjoy morning runs with Megan and Kaylee but I really look forward Thursday, the morning run with all the girls. Today I didn't worry about the pace it was great because I could barely move for the first mile. Rachel, Jessica and Kimi played hide and seek on the way back, which really scared me at first but ended up being just funny! 

p.m- Thank goodness today was easy. I'm still feeling the last two days! Is that normal? We ran down to the 2450 park and ran the grass loop for a couple of miles then striders (where I landed my two feet in a lovely sticker bush) and then back to the high school. It was a quite enjoyable today besides the achy breaky legs.

a.m - 3 miles with Megan and Kaylee. It was great fun. I'm still enjoying mornings. 

p.m - 4 miles. I ran with the girls up to the green springs club house and then continued on with Coach Roberts and Bags? for the rest of the 4 mile run. It was a lot of fun to have an easy day with cloud cover and good conversation. After we had 2x200's HARD! 

2008 - 25:04

2009 - 22:58

2010 - 21:12 (less than that)

I was just looking back at my past races and it is cool to see how far I have come. Sometimes I find it disappointing I'm not as quick as I had dreamed I would be from my Freshman to Senior year but still I have come a long ways and I have worked really hard for it so now I find it rewarding I am where I am. And it's still not the end I have this season to really dig it in and go after my dreams which have now become goals. 

Today was an impressive day as our girls JV placed 3rd at this bigger meet. That is our future right there! The boys did awesome taking first in JV and Varsity as both took out Mountain View which I believe is the only things standing in their way of state champs. Overall it was fabulous. It was really cool to listen to our coach and Jeff speak to us today. It's amazing to hear/see how far this team has really come and it's still in progress of becoming great! And we have become this way through our coaches who want us to succeed and achieve our goals.

Today the race was little challenging for me. My legs felt much better than they have felt the last two day but I just was not feeling that well or 100% up to anything. Last night I went home after club rush and skipped the football game because I wasn't feeling really great and I knew I needed a good night sleep to recover. My stomach was the worst but 21:12 is okay. Megan caught me at some part of the race and I was worried about losing my varsity spot so I dug in and just finished hard. Next time we will get Snow Canyon!

Goals for next week: Really dig in on those hard workout days. If we do a Michigan again. . . I'm not going to make it so pathetic and I'll stay strong.

a.m. - 3 miles with Megan and Kaylee. I usually love morning runs but not this morning. I was so sick. My stomach hurt so bad and all I wanted to do was roll up in a ball and cry. Me and Kaylee were thinking this mornings run was a repeat of the race for the both of us. The only good thing about this run was I was quite awake. I finally got some sleep!

p.m. - Oh man am I glad I'm feeling better this afternoon. We did a 1.5 warm up and I was feeling a little sick but when we got started into the repeats (5x3 min with 2 recovery) in kind of died down. Me, Megan, Kylee, Liz, and Maddi decided to try and buy into what the boys do, grouping up. Our goal was to stick together for the first two repeats. I know that trying to get everybody to run together means slowing down but that was not the case today. We pushed the pace and some girls wanted to stick it so bad that they ran the pace. It was so AMAZING! After two, coach was saying for the girls that were going 4 that 3 was most important so I said stick it again. And then the last it's only 3 minutes might as well finish with a strong workout and stick it again. After they finished I had one more. It was fun to run it by myself too. I really dug deep and pushed it. Overall it was really good for me and helped me stay consistent and run the best at the last. On the cool down all the girls talked about it being the best speed workout and how it really helped!

a.m. 3 miles this morning with LIZ and MCKAYLA and Kaylee. I thought it was just going to be me and Kaylee because Megan said she wasn't coming out. The more the better! 

p.m. 4 miles easy to Star Bucks! Oh I love easy runs. After we had striders.

a.m. 3 miles with the normal 3 + MCKAYLA! It was great having her out running with us. What about the book of 2010 PVXC _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _! 

p.m. MICHIGAN, MICHIGAN, MICHIGAN, MICHIGAN, MICHIGAN! yikes. . . . .

THIS WORKOUT SCARES ME MORE THAN A RACE! I have been fretting about this workout ever since Monday. I knew it was coming and well it came today! After our 1.5 mile warm up coach talked a little more about this workout, times and what he saw last time that should change this time. The times were a little toned down which helped calm my nervous. In fact, hitting those times almost sounded easy.

Me and Megan had the same goal times so we decided to stick it together. She took of fairly fast on the 800. I stayed back a little knowing it was a little too quick, eventually we ended up together on the second lap of the 800. We came off the track just about right. Then we headed out for our 1.5 at 10K pace. On our first loop coming around I saw the clock and thought we were so behind so the next one I really picked it up. Megan didn't really stay solid with me she was either really behind or a little ahead. It was bonkers. I didn't know what was going on. Coming down to our 800 I was really disappointed thinking we were way behind time but we weren't. We were ahead! It really helped when coach yelled at us asking if we were at race pace. It made me push back up to that 5k pace. Picking the pace back up when your a little tired is hard but it's a great thing to learn. The last 1.5 wasn't really too difficult. Coming up the hill the last time I think I must have been looking at the ground because I really don't know what happened. I looked up and all the sudden Megan was way ahead of me. It really stressed me out and I started to shut down but I thought about racing and if it was a Snow Canyon girl what would I do to get her, it didn't really work. I think she was just excited she was beating me and that adrenalin. I know I have had a target on my back since the beginning of the season. 

Which leads me back to my biggest fear. I fear that as I slow down to run in these groups or wait for different girls it hurts me and although it helps them, they might eventually beat me. Am I giving up my varsity spot. Do I need to go hard for me? The repeats on Monday have been hindering in my head too. Did I really get the best workout because we decided to stick as a group? When I'm not pushing myself at practice, how am I going to push myself in a race. I know it was just a workout but I have been worried since summer. This is a team sport but it's also about what about me and how can I be the best I need to be? STRESS!

Overall it was good to have the slower pace on this workout today because it gave me some confidence back when it comes to this workout. I'm excited for next time we do it now because I know I can do it quicker. I want to hit the second 800 5K time a little harder.

a.m - 3 miles with all the girls! 

p.m. - I can't even remember anything about this run except for the end. . . when I found out my back pack was stolen. My life is over. 150 dollar TI 89 calculator new, 275$ worth of college text books, binders and my last set of car keys! My life is over. . . . . . 

a.m- 3 miles.

p.m - 11 Run a thon!

8 mile with a two mile tempo. Legs are beat. It's taking more steps until my right leg is good to run on without pain. 

a.m - 3

p.m - 7

a.m - 3 miles 

p.m - Speed workout. 4x30 sec 3x800 2x1000 Fairly good workout. My leg didn't hurt much during the speed stuff. 1.5 mile warm up and cool down.

a.m - 3 miles. Most of the run to Artic Circle was painful. It eased up when we were almost there but yet again when we stopped and had to restart the pain increased. 

p.m - 7 mile formaser. Coming down formaster hurt like HANNAH! The whole run was slightly uncomfortable but especially that last part. 

after striders. 

a.m - 3 miles. The whole run was difficult. Good thing the pace was slow. I was limping horrible the whole time. For two hours after this run my leg throbbed and throbbed. I wanted to skip this morning run but. . . .One it's not good to skip runs . . . two all the other girls come out on Thursdays and I can't let them down. 

p.m 5 with Megan. I really couldn't run at all. I didn't whine about the pace or anything but it hurt so so so bad. And every time we had to stop at a stop light and start again the pain increased like 10x!

Thursday : After I was done with my five miles I knew something was wrong. I thought Mark, the athletic trainer at the high school, could just tape me better for the race. It hurt so bad to run I thought tape would solve it all. I went into see him and asked him to look at it. As he began looking there were no knots in my leg to workout nothing seemed to be wrong except this one place on my bone. He did a lot of test Physical tests jumping, moving, pushing, running. And then did an ultra sound on it. He also tried taping but nothing was working and I knew what it meant. I went home a complete mess. I still am a complete mess. I'm devastated and my heart is in my throat as I'm still waiting. 

My mom called the trainer and they set up a special appointment for me Friday morning. The doctor didn't really look at me but he said it was not a stress fracture and gave me a steroid pack to start taking. Since I couldn't get a hold of my coach in time to get another girl to go to Murry I went. I felt like a waste of space and that I was not even a part or supposed to be there (pretty sure that all came from my head but still)! It was the hardest thing to not get to run. Sometimes I would laugh and wish I just got to cheer everybody on but I felt like a piece of crap not racing. A worthless piece of crap. Running give me meaning.

Today: Monday August 13. . . Medicine is not working and there is no change. I have done everything! Ice, new shoes, medicine, staying off it, not even attempting to run until I took two steps today! It's frustrating in so many ways. This is the year we are going to take region and I have been working so hard to be a part of that and make it happen. And here I sit today not even knowing. I really feel like a good cry.

Nothing is working! Blah. Just did the elliptical! 

30 minutes on the bike, elliptical and pool running. 

p.m - I hit another all time low tonight. Lower than I have ever felt in my whole life. In fact tonight I didn't hold back the tears or rage and sadness and everything else bottled up in me. It all came out because my parents talked to me.

I really don't know much about this injury and I don't think anybody else does either but it's physically impossible for me to run right now. . . I have tried several times. This is my senior year and I can't run right now. I don't really want to go into what a crap load of emotions I feel but to write down what my parents told me.

1) This could be a blessing. Maybe I could come back stronger. Maybe these annoying stupid machines are teaching me something. . .form? I don't know but go with the chance that maybe.

2) God could be teaching me something through this. Faith, that I'm putting my trust in him, my whole heart. And knowledge, that I know he knows my pain both physical and mental. I have actually felt a lot an learned a lot tonight. Before I just wouldn't let myself I was too upset.

3) My parents reminded me of the Ryan Hall testimony. I think I'm too that point. I was running and proud and now I would just be happy if I got my ability to run back and I would be thankful and praise God with it.

4) I am a team captain and I feel like right now I'm a horrible example and I know I am hard to be around because I feel bad for myself. But my parents told me to be an example of overcoming adversity. To work through something this hard because I love it. And forget about myself and my problem and continue to build this team.

I have felt a lot and learned a lot tonight talking to my parents. I guess what I'm going to do now is put my fate in my Heavenly Fathers hands and continue doing everything I can. Because at the end of the season I want no regrets. So if everything consists of mornings and evenings on the elliptical, bike and swimming that is what I will do. And I will work hard doing it.

a.m - 30 minute workout at the gym. 15 minutes on the the elliptical and 15 minutes on the bike.  I went really hard and I kept bumping up the resistance as the time went on to get a good hard workout. Still nothing like running. But I will do everything I can. Because my dad reminded me at the end of the season no matter what to have no regrets. 

p.m - 30 minutes on the elliptical 30 minutes on the bike and 30 minutes of straight up and down pool running with Michael! I did the bike and elliptical alone and those were the longest half hours of my life. I was SO board. I didn't even feel like I was working hard even though I was going fast and I set a reasonable resistance. I thought Michael ditched out on me but his appointment went long so right after my swimming warm up he came! We did 30 minutes of consistent pool running together. It was REALLY hard but Michael kept me going. We feel the same about life and injuries right now. . . they stink! But we talked about why we love running and running and it was the best half hour of my day! He also pushed me because a half hour of pool running without anything. . . ow! The last minute of the workout we went as hard as we could! 

I put my leg in a freaking cold ice bath tub. It hurt so bad I wanted to cry and pull it out but I toughed it out for 5 minutes and then it didn't hurt so bad and I left it in for 15! Icing made all the difference today.

a.m - 30 minutes all on the bike. I couldn't make myself get on the stupid elliptical.

p.m - Michael said coach gave us a workout today. We started in the pool and warmed up for 10 minutes and then did 5x1 minute hard with a one min recovery. Even through the recovery we were still running. . . .no stopping. It was really fun today with Steph and Michael. . . still I miss running.GOOD NEW though!! My leg feels a little better. It's coming around. I am going to try running tomorrow.. . . wish me luck! After swimming we went up stairs and bike for 15. It was nice to a have break compared to the other days.

I finally decided to blog about the best day of my life. 

Today was my last region race. I have run varsity for past three years and as a team have never won region but everything changed today. 

We arrived at Snow Canyon high school nice and early. The entire team did a warm up together around the course, since there was no pre-region. Everything prior to the race went well. I can honestly say I went into this race more mentally prepared than any other race I have ever ran. I spent every night visualizing the course, the up hills and down. I visualized catching girls, working hard and pushing through the pain. By the time we made it to race day I was prepared to do anything to help the team win. I also kept hydrated all day and choaked food down because I was so nervous I was not hungry. My legs felt ready to go as well and natural running, thanks to the morning run.

After our run as a team I hung around with the everybody and watched the JV girls race. Our JV girls race really inspired me. Every girl had an amazing race and pushed so hard. I have NEVER seen the JV team run so well. This team will be unbeatable, like the guys, in just a few short years. I really enjoyed watching their race and hope the best for the future of this girls team. 

The varsity girls warmed up during the JV boys race. After warming up we headed to the start. It all went vary fast, the gun going off that is. Once we were able to get out a little I found Megan and Liz and began pushing it with them. We made it through the first lap and I could still see up ahead and things were not exactly looking as I planned. I knew I could push harder so I took off for a Snow Canyon girl and caught her on the hill. I tried to keep the pace rolling the best I could on the top of the hill and the down stretch to put more distance between us. Once on the track I tried to sprint the last 300, it was pretty dang painful. 

After the race I saw Megans face and Liz face and I thought we had lost and I had the most horrible time trying to accept that. I had not regrets, I did everything I could do but even that was not satisfying to me. Coach Holt however gathered up the varsity girls and told us all we were REGIONS CHAMPS! Oh. The emotion that ripped through. I thought I would cry or something but I was so shocked. I have waited forever to hear that and it was amazing I was just so happy. The first time this girls team has been region champs since 2001!

I got an individual medal 10th place (made my goal), we got our region 9 2010 trophy (made my other goal), and then took some pictures where it really was not hard to smile and then went home to celebrate home with my family.

a.m - 3 miles

p.m - I do not know exactly what went on with me today but it was definitely ranked as one of the top 5 worst days of my life. The 3 miles in the morning I was quite alright but this evening run just about ran me over. I just felt like sitting down and crying, honestly crying. I didn't want to though so the whole time I was trying to suck it up and had that big lump in my throat. It made the speed workout SO hard to do because I just wanted to be done and go home. I didn't want to run hard I didn't have the drive or anything so I felt every step and every second of time pass. When we finally finished I could barely contain it on the cool down so I ran alone. I tired to keep myself under control but I was just so down and out. I sucked it up again after a few minutes and just ran.

a.m - The first mile and half of this run I really struggled again. I'm just having the hardest time ever and I just wanted to run alone and be pathetic.  I saw my dad coming up the street when we reached Arctic Circle so I decided to just go and run with him. It's nice to run with him again, it was actually was good, and I kind of pulled my head out from where ever it's stuck at.  

WAHOO I'm blogging again!

I thought I had to work today right after school so I planned ahead and went running with my dad this morning. Turns out I work at 6 tonight but a morning run with my dad was just perfect so no regrets. After two weeks off I'm feeling like a cow, fat and out of shape. My dad ran at a convenient pace for me just slow enough I wouldn't die. The only bad part about this run was right at the first mile we hit I had needles in the stomach again. That has only happened once before when I was running Kaylee and Liz in the morning. I was doubled over then before I hit the 1.5 turn around and this morning I made it to the 1.5 but in bad shape, pure pain in the upper abs just needles and knives. I doubled up for a few minutes and then the rest of the run was perfect. Weird, eh? At least I didn't end up stomach flu sick the rest of the day like the last time. The rest of the run was just peachy.

I'm considering doing this new program called cross fit in the mornings and then running after school? I just might get some muscle!

p.m - I'm glad to be back running with the team. Today we ran out to hot nails. It really wasn't too bad.

After we lifted weights. . . I have not lifted in awhile so I WILL be horribly sore tomorrow.

Today me, Stoner, Rachel, Liz and Mia ran up into Green Springs. With all of us girls out running together it feels just like the cross country season (however it wouldn't hurt our numbers to increase!). We are all becoming better friends and the runs are more fun. Today we had crazy paces. Sometimes we were racing and sprinting and then sometimes hiding and sneaking (only for a mile though). The rest was really solid. On the way back we were running and jumping over the oncoming car's shadows. It was a workout after awhile but hoots of fun. 

I decided I was going to go with a group who was going to challenge themselves a little. Our Coach made a deal that if Stoner and Mia would run 4 then Megan, Jessica and Kaylee would get to run 4 instead of 5. The last half of the deal was they had to stick with coach for the first half. I see why our coach did that, some of our running efforts have not been up to 70%. Today the run actually felt accomplishing and even though I was not involved in the deal I’m glad that I ran with them.

I had to take off early today because I had to go take a final. Mia and Stoner came with and we went and ran SANDBURGS. It was really fun but when we got to the pond. . . it's half empty.  . . really empty. dumb. It was the best run though, the pace, the weather, everything.

I didn't get to sleep until after 1 in the morning and then I had to get back up at 3:30 to pack and get things ready go. Worst. No running this weekend. 

Today was just another 3 miles with all the girls. It was lots of fun, we went to go see the dead cow out at sandburgs that Stoner and some girls  found on Friday with some freshman. It was yucky. 

Interesting thought about our team. When I was running to Sandburgs with Rachel and Mia they were not scared but I was. The run creeps me out and I  feel responsible for them. They however were not nervous. Well when I was out of town on Friday they went on Sandburgs and took some freshman and they were nervous taking them without me or somebody older.  Anyways, we talked about it a little on our run. How we all in a way feel responsible for each other. Mostly older girls for the younger girls. It was intersting.

The level two and three boys ran with the level two three girls today. It was kind of weird to run together but I bet with some more runs like that it will be more comfortable. The first part the pace was great, we weren't running to hard but we were running. Toward the end, however, the pace picked up a lot. A good chunck of us girls ended up dropping off. I ran with Mia from there to the school and we continued running hard, just not CRAZY! 

Oh man, I'm surprised I am still alive! I don't know how Friday is EVER going to come. I ended up dragging myself through this run. I was pretty tired and feeling really crummy. The first two out into Green Springs was tough, on the way back wasn't so bad, except the boys caught us and the pace changed awfully quick.

Today I was feeling a bit of relief. A light at the end of the tunnel. I'm getting there. This added some serious relief to running, it didn't feel like another chore today. 

Today I couldn't/ chose not to run after school today. Last night, was a long night. This morning was a long day. And my English Portfolio was finally done and due to my professor so I left to take it to him after school. I know its not really an excuse but I just didn't feel like running. After clearing off my plate this weekend I didn't want to do anything. Although I guess not everything is done. Math exam 7 and 2 finals left.