Monday, April 26, 2010

This, that and the other...

As some of you may have noticed, lately I've been sharing a bit more about my running/training via this blog. I'm not really sure how many readers I have that aren't friends and family:)...so, for those of you that don't know, as far as my Summer running goes, I'm training for the Triple Crown Series! Below is a snapshot as to the schedule...but feel free to read more about it here. This will be my third Summer being involved in the series hoopla via my job at The Colorado Running Company, and after two times witnessing it all, I decided to throw myself into the bunch of crazies that actually participate.


June 13th- Garden of the Gods 10 Mile
July 11th- Summer Trail Round Up (12K)
July 18th- Barr Trail Mountain Race (Not part of the TCR, to Barr Camp and back-12.57mi)
Aug 21s - Pikes Peak Ascent (13.32 mi)

I am very much looking forward to some amazing trail running with friends this Summer...and maybe a margarita or two after the workout? :) I know I'll have to do a lot of arm twisting.

I have a couple goals for the Summer and this running business...

1. First and foremost I want to enjoy myself and have fun training. A big contributor for fun is lack of injury. I will really focus on listening to my body, treat it with respect and care, and try and stay away from the fine line of pushing too hard and pushing into better shape.

2. Remain in balance as much as possible. This is in regards to body, mind and spirit. I want to make sure I'm fueling my body correctly, giving it enough rest, allowing my spirit play & down time, and continue to practice yoga on a regular basis.

I know there will be runs/weeks that I don't feel like a runner...or not mentally or physically tough enough for this Summer...but, I will do my best to remember that I like challenges. I like the challenge of running, the way it makes me feel, the time to myself. Yes...those things I will remind myself:). I may refer back to this post every now and then too...hehe.

As far as my non-running life is concerned. I've really been pondering what things really bring me joy on a day to day basis. I think these things are what keep me balanced. My dad used to say that it was important for him to play as hard as he worked. I think about his words whenever I'm stressed to my max, and realize it's those little joys I need to revert to in those moments.

So...what are "my things?"...

photography, writing, friends, family, sun, music, laughter, color, creativity, coffee dates, rest, baking, yoga, spontaneity, the mountains, sushi, movies, books, listening.






Writing...yes, I want to use this blog not only as a way to document my training for this Summer, but to display other aspects of what brings me happiness. The title of this blog should be: Part runner/part foodie/part health nut/part daughter/party friend/part photographer/part yogi/part running store employee...but that would be annoying and too long:).

Thanks to all of you that read, and allow me to share so many things that bring me peace and balance.

So...today.

After a little sleep in (7am is sleeping in for me now), and relaxing coffee time, it was muffin time. My friend Amber provided a few gluten free muffin and cookie recipes that I've been altering and messing around with. Today's muffin of choice was pumpkin. They turned out soo good. The only thing that would have made the experience of preparing these better would have been without the constant twitch of my left quad. Did I mention these guys are gluten free and no oil!?? Pretty tasty

Next, it was off to a lovely, flat recovery run to help loosen up the tight leggos. This felt like a stinking vacation compared to yesterday. I headed out on a straight shot on Pikes Peak Ave for an out an back. Breathing and legs felt good:).



Good protein and carbs into the system right after. Cherry/vanilla protein smoothie..eat it with a spoon folks.

Off now to do a few "Sunday" (my Sunday that is) activities and errands. Sorry this one was soo long...just felt the need to catch up:). Happy Monday to you!

6 comments:

Jess said...

Love the thoughts you've articulated and the goals you've set. I think your current blog title expresses beautifully everything that the long one does. May this be a wonderful and fulfilling summer for you!

jboyd said...

I woke up missing you and wondering how you spent your days off...so nice to catch up on your blog and see "you"...full and growing...exploring your heart and your world. You are an amazing young woman, so far ahead of me at 25. I love all aspects of you...and I only want your happiness!! So I wish you "God Speed" everyday!!! Hugs from your mom

jboyd said...

After waking up missing you this a.m. I was pleased to see what you have been doing and thinking on your days off. Great to have time for reflection!!! I am proud of your insight and view of yourself and the world. You are so much further along on your journey than I was at 25. I wish you so much happiness and success on your life's quest...especially fullness of heart and much love, mom

Jillian said...

Thanks Jess:)

I may be ahead only because of wise women in my life such as you mother dearest:). Thank you for your unconditional support and encouragement in the exploration of my heart.

linda said...

wonderful to hear what you've been up to...your thoughts, and all you hope to achieve in the coming months, jills. i love how focused you can get and the clarity you have with your goals. blessings with it all...remember it's a journey so enjoy. love you...

brownie said...

I still can't believe you bailed on the Marathon for the Ascent! You can make up for it by finding someone to pace at Leadville though.