BOO

The Senorita and the Wench at Cindy's Halloween Party...don't I look freaky with black hair?

Here's the deal on the new swim suits. I got them, but I obviously ordered the wrong size (24) and could not even pull the damn thing much above my knees. So, it turns out I know nothing about swimsuit sizing. I just got the smallest size, like I always do and hope it's not too big. WRONG. I think Abigail, who's 8, would have a hard time getting the 24 on. I didn't try because I knew she would want to keep the suit if it fit and she doesn't need another bathing suit, especially a $48 one. So, I sent them back and cancelled the Halloween suit since I won't get to wear it near Halloween. BOO hoo. That's the story. Now, here's the workout:

4 x 200 swim: free/back/free/breast (50 each)

4 x 150 kick: fly/back/free

4 x 100 increasing speed

2 x 400 free

cool down


Happy Halloween

Every year we get a great picture of the the kids at our local pumpkin patch. They seem so big this year, but still super cute.

The 9 Trails training run this past weekend was postponed due to the fires. The National Forest is closed AGAIN and there are some hefty fines for those who don't follow the rules. I would never break the rules. Or trespass on private property. NEVER.

We did do some great training runs around here, though. Saturday, we ran to the top of Figueroa Mountain (luckily, the sign that said the road was closed had blown over due to the high winds), starting in the dark before sunrise, with the full moon. It was breathtaking. Then Sunday, we ran up and over Refugio, to the beach and back. It's steep and far. Two very good training days. I still can't believe I have a running buddy who loves to run as much as me. Wait, I need to qualify that. I have a super best friend who loves to run, maybe more than me, but lives in another state. What I should have said is that it's hard to believe I have a nearby friend to run with. It's something I have been dreaming of for some time now.

Last week I was really sore from speedwork and running hills pretty hard. I had to ice my quads for a few days to get them back to feeling good. Also, some deep massage on my legs really helped. Hurt, but helped. I better be getting faster.

It was fun to watch the progress of Javelina Jundred this weekend. I was talking to Justin on the phone while the runners were coming into the aid station at Javelina Headquarters. Just the pitter patter of runners feet was giving me goosebumps. I wish I could've been there. Next year.

Windy + Dry = Fire

Can you believe California is on fire, AGAIN?? The fire in Santa Ynez, if you are familiar with this area, is near Woodstock Ranch and the Sedgewick Reserve. This fire should be contained by this evening. I hear the fire began from an ember left from the Zaca Fire. The sky is already looking blue again. Let's hope the Santa Ana winds don't come back up.

On the other hand, the fires in San Diego are getting worse and my dad and family were just evacuated from their home in Valley Center. I am just glad my dad decided to leave and not be stubborn about it. I think we will all sleep better tonight.

Los Olivos 5K Pictures

This picture says it all...


Guillermo, Alexa and Calvin


Me and Abs

All the runners

Abigail made us pose like this

And slather with mayo...

I was just reading about this book, Jesus Land, and on the website I found these midwest church potluck recipes. The book looks very interesting and the recipes... I dare you to try one and let me know how it turned out. Debbie, I think we should incorporate the jello salad into your birthday challenge.

5th Grader Does First 5K

"I'm so proud of myself" is what Calvin has been saying all day. Since his 29: 35 finish this morning at his first 5K, Calvin has been telling the story of his 2nd place kid finish. He told me directly after the race that he is now in training for a 100 mile finish, although it may take years to get there. I can wait, I told him.

I have some great pictures, but blogger is currently not able to post, grrr. I'll have them up soon. Guillermo took first and easily. It's not a really competitive running crowd here, but that's not saying he's not a great runner. First is first.

Fun at the Track

Small turnout yesterday for swim. I love the early AM workout, you are done before you are even fully awake. I worked a bit, then met Guillermo at his office for a run at noon. We ran to the track, along with his very cute wife. He tried to kill me with speed work. Oh how I hate to run fast, but man do I want to get faster. I'm committed to trying and G says I'm fast on the track. I think he is just being kind or encouraging, but I'll take it.

For track workout we warmed up by running to the track, then alternated 200's and 400's with 45 second rest. The speedwork total was 3 miles. My legs were really tight by the end. It felt great to run back to Santa Ynez. The whole workout was about 6 miles, but that was plenty for me. I'm looking forward to getting faster and better at speed.

Here's the Swim Workout for all you fishies:

16 x 50 swim: free, free/back, free/breast, free

16 x 50 kick: same as above

16 x 50 pull: free (timed)

4 x 100 descending

cool down

Kristine is running the women only marathon in SF this Sunday(not sure what it's called). Also, San Diego 100 is this weekend and there are a couple of people I know running. Best of luck to everyone!! I plan to do the local 5K in Los Olivos. I will probably run with Calvin and Abigail wants to do the kid's mile. What could be better than running with my kids??