Final Run.

I can't believe I am at this point already but, I just did my final training run before the Marathon. This has been quite the journey - moments of it have been awesome, some not so much. I have learned so much about myself, that I really can do anything I set my mind too.

When I first started getting a base and training back in November/December running 10 miles was tiring and quite the challenge. I had just come back to running from an injury I suffered at a Half in October. It was very overwhelming in the beginning, lots of weekday running (which I wasn't used to) and a lot of self discipline.

Honestly, if it wasn't for Joe helping me I don't know if I would be at the point I am now. Him and his wife have had so much faith in me and you can tell they really want me to succeed. I appreciate Joe running with me through blizzards, ice and snow - it wasn't easy at times! I know I might not be where I originally wanted to be but I know I will finish and I think that is all that matters.

Training for a Marathon is definitely no joke, especially winter training. It was not fun running in the snow and ice, not going to lie. I have had a lot of setbacks, sick kids, me being sick and personal issues - it is something that takes a lot of your time and energy. I know it is going to be 100% worth it in the end but, I do think I am going to stick with my 5k's, 10k's and Half's at least until the kids get older.

I plan on doing a blog post Saturday night before the Marathon. I just want to say Thank You to everyone who has been following my blog and who has supported me along the way - I appreciate it so much!!

-Jamie

Less than a week away...

I just noticed I haven't done a blog post in awhile - I guess I am slacking a bit! Hard to believe that in less than a week is the Marathon, when I started training back in November, I really felt like it was forever away.

Today I did my last long run before the Marathon, and my longest mileage to date; 20 miles! I actually didn't feel to bad running that distance. I did most of it solo - about 15 1/2 miles of it. It wasn't to bad since I listened to music - it also helped that my friend Jared ran the final 4 1/2 miles with me. I am so glad he was able to come, it helped me mentally and it made those last miles easier since we talked through them.

I didn't have a goal going in to running these 20 miles, just to finish mostly. I was pretty happy when I finished and realized my pace wasn't to bad and neither was my time. I also dominated my last mile and ran it the fastest of all the miles (thinking this was because I wanted to be done)!

Now Taper Time! :]

Marathon Monday.

Today was the 119th Boston Marathon! I love watching it on TV, someday I do hope to be there either running it or just cheering the runners on! My friend Sean ran it today and he did awesome - I am so proud of him. He finished in 3:05, which is an amazing time! 

I loved the beginning of the men's elite when a normal everyday guy was leading the pack. It actually made me think of Joe, I think this is something he would and could do! Watching the women's elite was just as amazing - how fast they go, and they really look like they are not putting in much effort. It is all just really inspirational and amazing to me!

Awesome job to everyone who ran it - makes me even more excited for May 3rd!!

-Jamie

2 Weeks!

I am finally feeling like I am getting my strength back from not being able to run those 2 weeks. The beginning of the week was a real struggle! On Wednesday though I ran 10 miles (which for a weekday run, is a pretty long one), I had such a tough time with my breathing, and was really struggling. Eventually as the miles went on, the run did get a little bit easier.

That night my legs did not like me, and really started to hurt. I was supposed to run 8 that Thursday but figured it was better to listen to my body and rest. Friday was also a rest day - so I felt really "fresh" to start my run Saturday.

I was really looking forward to my run Saturday because I got to do it with one of my best friends Heidi! She is doing the Pittsburgh Half, and needed to get a good long run in but, originally only planned on maybe doing 8 of my 12. I love running with her because she keeps me motivated, we keep a great pace, and we both love to talk (so the miles fly by). We finished those 12 miles really strong - and now I think she feels confident about doing the Half now!

I still have two more long runs left - a 10 miler this week and 20/22 next Monday, then I get a very short taper time. Even though I didn't get to train like I would of liked, I do feel like I am going to finish this Marathon and that's all that really matters (especially for my first).

I hope everyone had a great weekend - I know I did, the weather here was beautiful (I even got a little bit burnt from yesterday's run). Tomorrow I plan on doing something special since it is the Boston Marathon - I have a few friends running it and couldn't be prouder of them!!

-Jamie

Review: RunnerBox (Subscription Service).

I received the RunnerBox a few weeks ago, which is a Subscription Box service for runners. When I first opened this box up I was in shock, it was overflowing and I got a full size drink that came with it too! My first impression was this Box has all other health/wellness/running boxes beat, especially when it came to the amount of brands, samples and variety.

Box was very full & even more goodies underneath!

This basically explains what RunnerBox is, which I took straight from their website:

"RunnerBox is a subscription based box full of products and discounts which have been hand-picked to enhance your active lifestyle. Runnerbox has everything from gels, chews, protein shakes/supplements, nutrition bars, energy boosters, healthy snacks, personal care, and other running accessories! Many products will be brand new to the market while others will be tried and true favorites. With so many new products claiming to be the next best thing – leave the trials and testing to us – we’ll search out the finest and send them right to your doorstep!"

I started trying out some of the products that came in the RunnerBox, which I do plan on having individual reviews of the products here and there within the next few weeks. I will list each of the products below with a picture.

E-hydrate Gel.

IPS.

Body Armor.

Run Gum.

Udderly Smooth.

Lasting Smiles.

E-hydrate Drink Mix.

GO Tape.

Fruigees.

Pocket Fuel.

Ice3 (Ice-Cubed).

BumbleBar.

Rani's NutraFoods.

RunnerBox Bootle Opener.

I really appreciate RunnerBox sending me their April/May box to try - and for those who follow my Blog I also have a discount code for you! When you checkout in either April or May use the code BLONDERUNNER and you will save 10%. 

Check out RunnerBox.

Order a RunnerBox!

-Jamie

Finally!

I ran my 6 miles tonight and felt great, not because the run went smoothly (far from it) but, I am finally getting back on track with my training. It has felt so good being able to run 3 days in a row!

I am not going to lie, or sugarcoat it any but, a couple times throughout this training I really had doubts that maybe this Marathon wouldn't happen. Its awful when things happen and you have absolutely no control over them - and thats what kept happening to me over and over again.

Joe sent me my final 19 day schedule and I am going to do the best I can at each of these runs! I want to cross that finish line feeling awesome accomplishing a Marathon. My schedule is definitely very different then most Marathon training plans, since I did miss a lot of runs (those being longer runs). I actually will be running 20 miles (which I am sure with Joe will turn into more than that :] ) the Monday before the Marathon and then for me that week will be my only taper.

Tomorrow is my 10 miler, which I plan on running outside (weather permitting) - then I am very excited because its my son's first Soccer practice (he is so excited to play).

-Jamie

Review: Flat Fanny (Etsy Shop).

A few weeks ago I received the Flat Fanny to try, and I was finally able to wear it during a couple runs! It is made through the Etsy Shop TheFlatFanny by Suzy Stensgaard, who is the shop owner. She will custom make these in any color, and any zipper color. I got surprised with a black one that had a hot pink zipper (which I loved, it's definitely my style).

Inside of the Flat Fanny.

This belt is one of the most comfortable running belts I have tried so far. Usually I have problems with them not fitting right, rubbing my skin or just plain uncomfortable. This one was none of those, and I plan on taking it with me on most of my runs now! I kept in mine my cell phone, chapstick and my car keys, and it didn't bounce or feel to heavy. I also like that she makes them based on your dress size, that way it fits you perfectly!

Wearing the Flat Fanny.

If you would like to check out the Flat Fanny Etsy Shop or purchase a Flat Fanny I will post the link down below. I definitely recommend checking this out if you are looking for a well made, comfortable running belt.

TheFlatFanny

-Jamie

Keeping Life Interesting.

I am loving this warm weather we are having in Pennsylvania - its nice playing outside with the kids and running outside! It looks like the rest of the week is going to be in the 60's with some rain but, I will take it over the freezing temps.

Yesterday after the kids had their open house for school (they are so excited they will be right across the hall from each other) - I ran my 5 miles. It went really good, I was nervous because  I had so much pain in my knee after Thursday's run. The pain is thankfully gone so I am glad I took those two days off to rest it.

Today I got outside and ran my 6 miles (the last few were pretty slow). I had a great pace till about mile 4 then it went downhill (and no, not literally). I started overheating, which I should of dressed lighter and got so thirsty (I should of brought water). I ran back home an got there at about 5 miles, so I refueled with some water.

My son was begging me to take him with me for the last mile, so I figured why not. I was SO proud of him, he did awesome, we ran and walked and he did a whole mile in 15 minutes! He is only 5 and he kept right up with me, and said he had so much fun. I really want to do a 5k with him that is run/walk or a fun run like a Color Run. He really turned such an awful run into an amazing run - so glad I took him out for the last mile!

Tomorrow is another 6 mile day - as long as its not raining, I am getting out to run! Hopefully tomorrow's run is a little easier and I can get my breathing down (that is something I struggled with today, which could of been the heat). I got on my Pittsburgh Marathon app on my phone and it says 20 more days!!

-Jamie

Review: Ice3 (Cubed) Cooling Towelettes.

Today I am doing a review of the Ice3 (Cubed) Cooling Towelettes - which If you follow my blog, I received a sample of the Mint Scent in my StrideBox. Arena Sciences is the company who makes these towelettes and they sent me the rest of their scents to try out. I was super excited since this product really does work and their other scents are fruity ones (I wasn't a huge fan of the Mint scent since it was really strong). The other scents they have besides Mint are; Strawberry Burst, Soothing Coconut, Tangerine Dream and Orange Blossom.

What this product does is it cools you down during or after working out or running. All you have to do is rub it on your arms, legs, head, back and stomach. You can also put it in the fridge to get an even more intense cooling feel.

The verdict with the other scents are I really liked the Tangerine, Strawberry and Orange. I was looking forward to trying the Coconut (since I am a huge fan of Coconut scents), unfortunately it smelled more like rubbing alcohol, which was disappointing. Overall, the Mint scented one made me feel cooled down the most, even though the scent was a little overwhelming. My favorite was the Orange scented one, which I do plan on repurchasing. It will be nice in the summer after a long run to cool off quick!

If anyone is interested in purchasing any of these or just checking out Arena Sciences, I will post the link's down below.

Check out Arena Sciences.

Purchase Ice3 (Cubed) Cooling Towelettes.

-Jamie

Not Again!?!?!

I am excited to report that I ran my 4 miles yesterday - which is huge seeing I haven't ran in awhile and I was worried how I would feel. My legs felt amazing running, those 4 miles felt like nothing (and I really could of went longer).

It wasn't all amazing though - I had a reaction to my medicine (which I sweated out). I turned bright red and itched my legs, back and stomach to the point I had bleeding scratches, it wasn't a pretty sight. I also felt like my jaw wanted to shatter, the bouncing movement of running really made it hurt. Topping it off, I wore the wrong socks (my own fault) and got two nice size blisters on the back of my heels.

Although this sounds awful, I went to bed pretty positive that I was back on track! I woke up this morning with my knee aching and a sharp shooting pain that went straight up to my hip. I really have been taking it easy today and icing my knee. I am supposed to run 4 miles again tonight but I am not taking the chance. I plan on running my 4 miles tomorrow as long as my knee is feeling better.

I swear it has been one thing after another since January - I really could use a break!! I am hoping this is nothing and tomorrow I am feeling back to myself! I guess for tonight I can at least read about running...

-Jamie

Review: ChickyBands (Etsy Shop).

About a week or so ago I received a headband from an Etsy Shop called ChickyBands. The owner is Cathy Luna and she makes these super cute (and comfortable) headbands. If you are looking for a headband that will stay put through vigorous exercise or running, then this is the place to buy one! Cathy is also a runner and ran her first Marathon last year in San Antonio - which I found to be very awesome and inspiring!

Love the design I was sent!

I have had headbands in the past that were supposed to be non-slip and they slid right off, usually not long after I started running. ChickyBand Headbands were super comfortable and it did not budge at all during my run. The backing was made with a very soft velvet which was really unique - compared to most headbands I have.

Back is made of soft velvet!

Make sure to check out ChickyBands on Etsy and let her know that Jamie from Blonde Ponytail sent you! I will leave all her information to the ChickyBand Shop below!

Check out ChickyBands here!

-Jamie

Do I Have What It Takes?!

Hey Everyone! It has been quite awhile since I last updated this blog but then again its been awhile since I have actually been on a run. If you follow me on my Facebook you will know already that life has been throwing me issue after issue.

Two weeks ago it started out my son had the stomach bug, then by the end of the week I got it. I then had to have my wisdom tooth surgically cut out on March 30th, I really thought I could get back to running the next day...I was very wrong. The office said I had to wait at least a week before I could even think about running!

I have had nothing but problems since I had this procedure - my mouth got infected, extreme pain many days after, and then the medicine was actually making me sick; needless to say I really thought I was dying this past Monday - I have never been/felt that sick EVER!

I had went to my post op appointment this Tuesday and asked the surgeon why my mouth/jaw is still really painful, he said that this was a really tough extraction and that the tooth was very deep - well I guess this explains everything!

Now back to running and training and all that fun stuff - today I am planing on running 4 miles. I am actually really nervous to get back to running since I still am in pain, and the surgeon did warn me running could cause more swelling and even more pain. I have to train for this Marathon though it is only weeks away - I am freaking out, not going to lie!!

I had so many goals that I wanted to do at this Marathon in the beginning, but now my only goal is to just finish it. I am not going to lie I have so many emotions running through me lately, I am scared, nervous, worried about "can I really do this". I have been in training since November for this Marathon so I know there is no turning back now, and I don't want to even consider doing that! This is huge for me, and to actually do it will be one of the most amazing moments of my life!!!

Honestly right now I could use all the support I can get! I WILL do this! If everyone could throw me some prayers, good vibes, positive thoughts - whatever you do - I would appreciate that more than anything. I have a tough few weeks of training left and I need to push and give this all I got!!

I also want to mention that I will have reviews up soon of RunnerBox (Subscription Box) with a special code just for those who read my blog. Running Headband (which I have to say I have been wearing, just because it is so cute), Flat Fanny Pack which is made by a wonderful woman on Etsy and the ICE3 Cooling Cloths!

If there is a specific product that you would like to see me review - let me know in the comments or send me a message on Facebook!

Thanks for staying with me through this journey - and I hope everyone has a great day!

-Jamie