Training for a half marathon (take 2)

Last spring, I was training for a half marathon and then found out I was pregnant. We had been trying to conceive for a year and a half. Some might think "why train for a half marathon while trying to get pregnant?". I honestly didn't know if we'd ever conceive, and I didn't want to put other aspects of my life on hold. I had to stop training, because running got to be pretty difficult. I continued to exercise during my pregnancy, but running was not my exercise of choice during those months. I did boot camp, strength training, and yoga.

After Caleb was born, I impatiently waited until time to start working out again. I just couldn't let myself wait the recommended six weeks, so I started running at three weeks postpartum. I know that probably wasn't the wisest or safest decision, but it ended up being fine. Working out is as much a mental thing for me as physical. I was dealing with a lot of crazy emotions during those first few weeks of Caleb's life. The best way for me to release my emotions/stress and clear my mind was to lace up my shoes and escape for a little while.

Since I had to stop training for my half marathon last year, I deferred my OKC Memorial registration to this year. That has been the perfect motivation to stick with running, no matter how much life tries to get in the way. I am following Hal Higdon's "novice 1" training program. I'm also taking Jeff Galloway's advice of doing run/walk intervals, so I alternate four minutes of running and one minute of walking. I did five miles today. I have nine weeks until the half marathon. I'm a little nervous that I'm not running a longer distance yet, but I'm right on schedule with the training program.

God Gave Us Easter (book review)

"God Gave Us Easter" appears to be a story about the true meaning of Easter, but I feel that it doesn't focus much on the crucifixion/resurrection story. It briefly compares Easter eggs to the empty tomb, but then goes on to talk about Noah's ark and listening to God. The story seems a little hard to follow, and it's not as good as Ms. Bergren's other books.

Book info

I received this book for free froWaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

3 miles

I set out for a run today with the plan to run 2.75 miles. It was supposed to be Week 8, Day 3 of "Couch to 5k". At 2.75 miles, I was feeling great and decided to keep going. I ran 3 miles. That's my longest run since sometime during my pregnancy. I had Caleb 13 weeks ago, and I'm thrilled to be running 3 miles this quickly after having him!

The OKC Memorial Marathon is only 14 weeks away, and I'm registered to run the half marathon. I plan to finish "Couch to 5k" this week and then start my training. I will post soon about the training plan that I will be following.

God is More Than Enough (book review)

*God is More Than Enough* by Tony Evans is a 'verse by verse' examination of Psalm 23. This familiar chapter is one that so many can quote or paraphrases without much though, but this book takes the reader on an in-depth study of the truths found in each verse. Whether you find yourself currently in "green pastures" or the "valley of the shadow of death", this is an excellent book to remind one of God's power and grace.


Please note: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.