Movin' it with Michelle

Weekend musings

October 17, 2015October 17, 2015 Movin' it with Michelle

I’ve had a bit of a trying week, one could say…after last weekend’s half marathon, my left lower butt cheek was really hurting (?? WTH), and my right knee-well, was being it’s normal cranky self. So I didn’t run last week. Not one mile. And I am 100% ok with that fact. And THAT. Well that speaks volumes of how far I have come as a runner, and grounded person. The old me would be going nuts by now…

Sometimes we become ungrounded though, and we need a bit of a wake up call in life in order to regroup. I will keep the majority of the details of this wake up call private to protect those involved, but I can speak in regards to what happened to ME. Because this is my blog and I can vent if I want to…

Just a few days ago I said some pretty horrible things in response to something that was said to me. #twowrongssodontmakearight And in doing so, I realized that over the last 9 months or so I have turned in to a pretty selfish person. I’d forgotten many of the things I had to relearn these last 4 1/2 years after retiring from the military and I got so self absorbed in finding/being ME that I forgot too, to be selfLESS. Because that has always been a part of who I am as well.

I got a swift kick of reality this week. But after lots of tears, and countless prayers I was given a second chance. A second chance to rebuild and rekindle what was once a very solid relationship. Cue more tears now…

I was also reminded of the many wonderful relationships I have in my life as I struggled with my ‘trying’ week. So while I may not have ran a single mile this week, I feel like I’ve crossed a new starting line…and with that, I’ll keep movin’ forward.

Lessons learned: You can never take back words. Ever. Use them wisely and carefully. Be KIND to everyone, but especially those you love. Never let things fester inside you…COMMUNICATION IS THE KEY. Festering is bad…very very bad. And lastly…put forth effort into these crazy things called relationships. Be it friend, family, spouse or coworker ALL these relationships weave a very intricate web in your life. Nurture that web!!!!

Me and my friend Andrea, meeting up with Janel (center) to make sure she had her DO EPIC SHIT bracelet because she's running her first 50 miler today! #friends — Me and my friend Andrea, meeting up with Janel (center) to make sure she had her DO EPIC SHIT bracelet because she’s running her first 50 miler today! #friends

Have you ever had a real life wake up call in regards to a relationship in your life? How do you deal with not being able to run due to real life crazies?

Hope y’all are having a great weekend!!!

❤

Michelle

Races

Prairie State 2015 half marathon race recap!

October 12, 2015October 12, 2015 Movin' it with Michelle

I went into this race with NO expectations other than to finish, and most importantly HAVE FUN. Those that have been reading for a while, know I took a good 6 week break from distance running after the Grandma’s Marathon in June. This break wasn’t due to injury, but for personal reasons and a few weeks ago I decided it was time to get back at it. I’ve done this race in the past back in 2013 so I decided as long as I beat my time of 2:14 (you can read the recap-HERE), I’d be happy.

A couple of my friends were also doing this race, which was an added bonus! They invited me to join them for the 1 hour commute north to Libertyville, IL. YAY! We met up at Jitka’s house at 6 a.m. and headed north. The trip was uneventful other than the cold front came through causing some pretty serious fog. The sunrise was AMAZING tho…

The racing Gods must’ve been smiling upon us because everything worked out perfectly. We had to park in a parking lot about 15 minutes from the start line and get bussed to the race.

We got to the race with about 30 minutes to spare, and thank goodness because the porta pottie line was LONG.

We made it just in time to pee, hug, and get into our respective areas in the shoot. Jitka was going for a PR so they made their way to the 7 mm area, and I headed back to the 9:30 pace group where I normally feel the most comfortable.

We started promptly on time (yet I wonder how many people were late as the bus situation proved to be quite a hassle for those that arrived later than we did…) and I felt great. It was around 45 degrees with a slight breeze and I was thankful I had on my arm sleeves and a throw away sweatshirt. After about a mile and a half, I tossed my sweat shirt and took off. And took off I did-WAY TOO FAST having my miles be in the low 9’s. This is FAST for me mind you, and by mile 5 or so I started to get a side stitch…no matter what I did, it was there, but I kept trucking along. I saw my sister right before the turn around point which truly lifted my spirits and distracted me from the pain in my ride side.

By mile 10, I decided I need to walk it off, so I walked for a good 3-4 minutes. Thank goodness, because mile 11-12 were all slightly at an uphill incline which totally kicked me in the tail. The last mile I kicked it up, and it felt great knowing I was almost finished. My buddy Mark ran me in, and this was AFTER pacing Jitka to a PR of 1:37, AND second place in her age group…AMAZING!!!

All in all, it was a great race with a few tough miles. I finished in 2:08:06, and keep in mind Dickson Chumba won the Chicago Marathon yesterday with a time of 2:09:25, ROFL…Sure puts it all into perspective, doesn’t it? LOL!!!

We finished the day with my favorite post race drink-a Bloody Mary! We also enjoyed a yummy lunch, and then headed home.

I come out of this experience reminded of my true passion and love for running, as well as an appreciation for my friends that love me, well, even when I am not the easiest person to love. A cool little fact, is that I met Jitka at this race 2 years ago, and we’ve been friends ever since! ❤

How were your races this weekend? Did you do anything fun with friends or family? What’s your favorite post race meal?

Have a great week!!

❤ Michelle

Fun Surverys

Fall Favorites

October 9, 2015October 9, 2015 Movin' it with Michelle

My friend Christa over at A Voluptuous Mind tagged me in this little fun questionnaire, so I thought, “Why not?” This sounds like fun!

Favorite candle scent? I love any type of fall scent, but think apple cinnamon is my favorite during the fall season, as it brings back so many happy memories.

Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate? Tea, all the way. The only way I drink coffee is if it’s loaded with all kinds of sugary syrups which I am trying to avoid, LOL. I do also LOVE a good cup of hot chocolate on a cold fall/winter day, and please, feel free to add some peppermint schnapps!

What is the best fall memory you have? I’m not sure if I can pinpoint a specific memory. But I do relate the crunching of leaves under my feet, to much simpler times when I was a child walking home from school, feeling the crisp wind on my face and not having a care in the world.

Best fragrance for fall? I’ve worn the same perfume for 20 years…Romance by Ralph Lauren.

Favourite Thanksgiving food? Turkey, turkey, ALL the turkey. I love Thanksgiving surrounded by family and friends enjoying good food.

Most worn sweater? I’m not a big sweater person, but do have a grey one I love.

Football games or jumping in leaf piles? Both. All day, every day.

Favorite type of pie? For Fall? Pumpkin….or Pecan…or Apple…yikes, I have issues.

What is autumn weather like where you live? Crisp and fragrant filled with all the yummy fall smells of leaves and fireplaces.

Which make-up trend do you prefer, dark lips or winged liner? Less is more, ladies. Please. Embrace your natural beauty. I wear a little powder, blush, eye liner and mascara. I’d rather keep it simple.

What song really gets you into the fall spirit? Hmmmm….Counting Crows comes to mind, no idea why.

Is pumpkin spice worth the hype? I do love me a good pumpkin spice latte…but see above…LOL

Favorite fall TV show? Once Upon a Time

Skinny jeans or leggings? Both! Love skinny jeans with a long top or sweater, and I also pair leggings with dresses and sweaters.

Combat boots or Uggs? Combat boots, please. Uggs are UGLY.

Halloween – yay or nay? Meh…I could do without it except my youngest daughter LOVES Halloween.

Fall mornings or evenings? Neither. Dark in the morning and dark in the evenings get me depressed, quick.

What do you think about Black Friday? It’s stupid, chaotic, and I avoid it at all costs. It TRULY sucks any sort of holiday spirit from me, so I shop early, or online.

One fall 2015 trend you love? Skinny jeans and tall boots. I have a ~~sickness~~ weakness for boots. Maybe it’s the military girl in me, or maybe it’s because I can pick whichever ones I want to wear…either way, it’s one of the few things I love about cooler temps.

Ok, I am going to tag a few pages to play along but don’t feel any pressure what so ever to participate. This was just something to do for fun!! ❤

A Momma’s View

Jess Runs Happy

When the kids go to bed

Pipers Run

What are some of your favorite things about fall?

Happy Friday!

Michelle

Wordless Wednesday

Worldless Wednesday-The day I became a marathoner

October 7, 2015October 7, 2015 Movin' it with Michelle

This tear filled smile says it all. On this date 3 years ago, I crossed the finish line of my first marathon with my sister-The Chicago Marathon 2012 with a finish time of 5:23.

While I’ve since shaved 58 minutes off that finish time, this day will always be one my proudest moments. What’s your proudest moment? Are you running the Chicago Marathon this year?

❤

Michelle

weekend wrap up

Weekend wrap up in pics…mostly…

October 5, 2015October 5, 2015 Movin' it with Michelle

Happy Monday, y’all! How was your weekend?!

Mine was great.

I started out my Friday with 8 miles after work. I was truly chasing daylight to get this one done and I wouldn’t change a thing about this run. Ok, maybe the pit stop I had to take in the woods to pee at mile 6, but other than that, it was perfect. Splits were: 9:54, 9:52, 9:56, 9:33, 9:26, 9:24, 9:12, 8:54! And…I got to capture this picture when I finished.

Saturday I spent the day in the city with my family. It’s amazing what a train ride, some shopping, and AMAZING food can do for the soul. AND I got to meet one the amazing John Colleta of Quartino in Chicago which is one of our FAVORITE places to eat in Chicago. WINNING.

Short rib tacos from The Grand Lux Café in Chicago-YUM!

10-3 — Chef John Colleta of Quartino took the time not only come out and greet us, but he made us a complimentary pizza!!!

The best pizza I've ever eaten. Ever. LOL — The best pizza I’ve ever eaten. Ever. LOL

Sunday was a quiet day filled with football watching, cooking, and one last run to wrap up the week.

The pic doesn't do this meal justice, as my daughter said she LOVED the sweet potato puree! — The pic doesn’t do this meal justice, as my daughter said she LOVED the sweet potato puree!

It felt great to regroup over the last few months, and I really feel like I am getting back to ‘me’ again. Despite a rough summer, I can happily say I am continually movin’ forward and it feels great.

How was your week? Do you ever do touristy things where you live? What’s your favorite cuisine?

Have a wonderful week!!!

❤ Michelle

Friday Five

Friday Five, in no particular order

October 2, 2015October 2, 2015 Movin' it with Michelle

I haven’t done a Friday five post in a while, so in keeping with my effort to try and get back to blogging more frequently-here goes!! (Written on Thursday night, but it still counts, right?)

1. I did it. I bit the bullet and signed up for another full marathon, the Rockford IL full marathon on May 22nd, 2016. I swore I’d never sign up for another full, more so due to the fact that training for a full marathon is TRULY exhausting. But I decided the reward is well worth it, and I’d like to really push myself with this one and see what these old legs can do.

2. Winter running gear. I said it. WINTER. Colder temps have arrived, which means it’s time to pull out my gloves, ear warmers and long sleeves. Cry. I like COOLER temps, but breaking out the gloves always makes me sad. I pray I can run longer outside this winter. The last couple winters have done me in completely.

3. Diet and menopause. Both my arch enemies. But I am REALLY trying to drop a few lbs, as in researching what my “racing weight” should be, it looks like I need to drop 10 lbs. I’ll be honest, I am not sure I can do it…but I really have been trying. I’ve learned the hard way ~~after trying them all~~ that there are no magic pills, wraps, shakes or diets that work in my opinion. For me it’s watching my caloric intake, to include wine consumption. I’ve been tracking my food religiously for 2 weeks, and am proud to be down 1.5 lbs. It’s not a ton, but including the 4 lbs. I’ve lost previously, it’s at least a start. I’ve got 10 to go, but I’ve decided I’ll be happy if I can at least lose 5 lbs. before I start training for Rockford.

4. Shoes. I LOVE my Brooks Launch 2’s, and am still using the 2 pairs I rotated for my last marathon. A big no-no after all the mileage I’ve put on them, but they will get my through my next half marathon at least-which is NEXT weekend, ACK!!!

I see these happening possibly in the near future....:-) — I see these happening possibly in the near future….:-)

5. Running vs. Racing. This is a tough battle for me, as I am very competitive with myself. I often say going in to a race that I am not “racing it” yet I always push myself during an event I’ve committed to and trained for in end. Next weekend I have the Prairie State half marathon that I signed up for a few weeks ago mostly because I needed a swift kick in the tail. Six weeks off from distance running was enough rest. My guess is that I can hold a 10 mm pace, but I’ll just have to see how it goes! I am going to try my best not to push myself to injury, because that would just suck. LOL

At the end of the day, it truly is all about what works for you…in all aspects of life!

What brand of shoes is your go to? Do you have problems running vs. racing an event? What’s your take on fad diets/pills etc.?

Have a great weekend, y’all!! I’ve got 8 miles on deck tonight so I’m a bit nervous but plan on having an awesome weekend with my family!

❤

Michelle

Uncategorized

Things I am thinking about…

September 29, 2015 Movin' it with Michelle

…and in no particular order.

I am thinking about running another full marathon next year. As most of you know, I really wanted to run Grandma’s Marathon again, but without the free lodging my Mom got us last year and hotels going for a good $200+ a night, well…that doesn’t look very do-able for our family’s budget next year. 😦

SOOO…I found a local marathon that is less scenic, but a nice flat course that I could possibly push myself to maybe PR? Who knows…maybe?

I am thinking its time to REALLY start researching ideas and plans for my dream of opening a restaurant. I know this won’t happen for another 10 years or so, but I really want to be ready. So I’ve picked up my pen and paper, put on my thinking cap, and have started a list of regions in the U.S. that have good wines, and the cuisine that pairs well with the wine. I’ve only just started this process, but I have to admit, it is FUN doing all the research.

I am thinking since learning to ~~hate~~ embrace the added 5-8 lbs that have joined me since turning 40, I have also decided to fight back and turn that fat into muscle. I’ve gotten back on the running wagon, and have continued my strength training and yoga. Bye Bye Fat…and screw you, SCALE!

With that, I bid you happy National Coffee Day! Even though, well, I don’t drink coffee, LOL!!

What’s on your race schedule for the remaining of this year, and even next? Have you ever found yourself in a pinch when it comes to traveling for races? Do you drink coffee?

Happy Tuesday, y’all!

❤ Michelle

Recipes, running

Weekend in review with Risotto

September 27, 2015 Movin' it with Michelle

What a weekend!!!! After hearing the news that my good friend’s Dad passed away, I felt my work week ending with a very heavy heart on Friday. But I am blessed with some pretty darn amazing coworkers, and welcomed their invite to go for a drink after work. You’d never guess what an hour and a half, and a Bloody Mary will do for the mood. Trust me on this one.

Saturday I was able to meet up for a long run with my super cool ultra runner friends. I love the fact that I can just run, chat and have fun with no worry about time or pace. I set out to do 6-8 miles, but muscle memory kicked in and I felt like I could run forever. We were running at a nice and easy 11:30-12 mm pace, so I ran 10 miles to round it out. MORE winning in regards to my daily mantra, and I left a lot out there on the trails.

They even convinced me to drink the Kool aid, or orange soda in this case. It was SOOOO good after years of NOT drinking soda, and extra refreshing after 10 miles of running.

Cheers!

After paying my respects at my friend’s Dad’s wake today, I decided to dive in to Sunday Supper. The pork roast is one I’ve done many times, simply season with a good BBQ rub, sear on all sides and slow roast at 225 degrees until the internal temp is 152 degrees. Remove from the oven and let stand for 10-12 minutes.

Risotto with mushrooms and peas

8-10 cups of unsalted chicken stock heated on low on the stove top

1 package of risotto

2 large shallots, diced

8 Cremini mushrooms, sliced

1/4 cup diced chives-green parts only-set aside

1/2 stick of unsalted butter

1/2 cup Grana Padono cheese

1 cup of frozen peas

Truffle oil-to dress right before serving

Kosher salt and pepper to taste

You will need two pans for this, one with a deeper edge. In a non-stick fry pan sauté the mushrooms until caramelized. While you are doing this, heat the deeper pan to medium high heat, and add in the diced shallots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes and add in your rice. Gently stir, until the rice becomes slightly translucent. Next, slowly start ladling in the chicken stock, two ladles at a time. Stir until absorbed, and repeat the process. Cook for about 30 minutes until the rice is al dente. Season with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to your taste. Lastly, add in the butter, caramelized mushrooms, frozen peas and cheese. Stir well, and dress with chives and Truffle oil before serving.

I try to limit my starch and carbs, but once a week I allow myself a treat. THIS my friends was a huge hit, and had my husband drooling!

While the weekend had some dark moments, I will say that I learned a lot about myself this weekend. I learned I need to cherish life even more than I thought I did, and I need to take time for things that make ME happy, too. So I held on a little tighter when hugging my family and friends, and did so many of my favorite things this weekend to celebrate life.

How was your weekend? Run any training runs or races? Did you try any new recipes?

Have a great week, everyone!

❤

Michelle

Uncategorized

Things you may not know about me Part 2-Things I don’t like

September 24, 2015 Movin' it with Michelle

For those who took read Part 1, and shared your own likes-THANKS! I had fun with this series. We are wrapping the series up with the things I don’t like, so here they are in no particular order-except for number 1, that truly is the number ONE thing I don’t like.

being lied to…in any form or fashion. Be honest people. It WILL catch up with you.
body hair. ‘Nuff said.
Lima beans
cold weather-to include the white stuff. Mother Nature can keep it ALL.
water in my ears/nose/eyes
horror movies
alarm clocks
premenopause and all the horror that comes with it #thestruggleISreal
injury
death
beer-unless it’s at a ball game
bad table manners, to include LOUD chewing, elbows on the table and talking with your mouth full. Insert a pic of my hubby-HERE. lol
being startled. Maybe it’s anxiety thing, but DON’T sneak up on me to “scare” me for fun. I will jump out of my skin, Every. Damn. Time.
driving at night.
stuffy noses, especially my own. I NEED TO BREATHE lol
soda
flossing my teeth
that feeling you get in your mouth, when you haven’t flossed your teeth
water chestnuts. It’s like eating chalk. Bleh!
chafing
debt
fake friends, to include fair weather friends and one sided friendships. Somethin’s gotta give, right?
laundry (this might be my number 2…just sayin’)
high heels. I look like a 5 year old trying on her Mom’s shoes for the first time when I walk in them. ROFL!
One-uppers-You know, the people have to have done EVERYTHING, been everywhere and own everything that you do…twice.
uncomfortable silence
flying bugs
people that don’t like Disney

And quite possibly, this list…LOL!!! Maybe I need to just let things and not be so quirky, but nah. I am who I am, LOL

In keeping with my Julie Andrews theme...because I DO like her! LOL — In keeping with my Julie Andrews theme…because I DO like her! LOL

What are some things that drive you batty? Any thing you don’t like that you’d like (haha, see how I did that?!) to share?

Thanks to all who participated in the fun! I just wanted to change things up, and had fun writing these up in my free time. Enjoy!

❤ Michelle

Uncategorized

Things you may not know about me-Part 1: Things I like…

September 23, 2015 Movin' it with Michelle

Yup, it’s that simple. I have been finding it hard to come up with topics to write about since I’ve taken a break from racing (although that break may end soon…more to follow) other than posting a recipe here and there. So I am borrowing an idea from my friend Christa at A Voluptuous Mind and make a 2 part post. One, things I like…Two, you guessed it…things I don’t like! Just a few random things you may or may not know about me…:-)

Here’s part one of Things you may not know about me!

Things I like!

Romance in all forms
Surprises
the smell of the air on a fall day
key lime pie
crème brulee’
the beach
writing
lavender
the smell of sweat after the 2nd or 3rd mile of my run (don’t judge-I know I’m weird)
belly laughs
Photography…capturing moments with photography makes me smile
dancing
hardwood floors and exposed brick
honesty
fancy restaurants
bon-fires
music. all forms. But especially Frank Sinatra. I LOVE Frank.
wine with friends
cooking gadgets-ALL the cooking gadgets!!!
massages
seeing people enjoy the food I prepare for them
that feeling you get when you are no longer runner, but flying…
hugs where you don’t feel like you have to let go
lunch time walks
cold pillows and warm blankets
challenging myself to chase my dreams 🙂

These are just a few of my favorite things (now you’ve got the song in your head, don’t you?!)!!!!

What are you favorite things?! I’d love for you to share a few of them! ❤

Stay tuned for part 2 of Things you may not know about me…coming soon!

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