Half Marathon pt. 1

As many of you know, I have been training for a half marathon that is actually next weekend. First off, let me just say, I was NOT a runner. I was the girl that always made excuses in gym and the treadmill was is my worst enemy (I'll leave that for another post). I always did sports that didn't require a lot of running. You get the picture

So, never in a million years did I think 6 months ago that I would be able to run for 2 hours straight. Well, today I did...and let me tell you, it was NOT easy.

Over the last couple of months, I've learned more about running than I ever anticipated. Here are a few things:

1. The first 20 minutes of all my runs are pure torture.

2. This is how I feel before every run, but afterwards I feel great!!

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3. I prefer to run without music when I run outside. The hustle and bustle around me keeps me moving.

4. I still don't know how to keep a steady pace. My dad does, so that's why I've been training with him. He keeps me running at a steady pace.

5. A glass of chocolate milk is actually good for you after you run long distances (who would of thought?)

6. I prefer to run outside, rather than inside on a treadmill (another post for later)

7. A great expensive pair of running shoes, running socks and a good sturdy sport bra are ESSENTIAL for a successful run.

8. I like this marathon (and 1/2) training app, the best. Although I don't stick to it, it helps me stay on track and keeps my end goal in sight. 

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 9. I have this quote and picture hanging in my room to get me through this half marathon. 

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Once I finish this half marathon, I hope to continue running. If I survive this run this next weekend, I'll discuss what made me get through it and what helped me or what didn't. I find running to be very therapeutic and calming (after the first 20 mins) and the best type of exercise there is. After 6 months of hard training and dedication, I can now say... I am a runner!!

The Ultimate Runner's Guide (Very interesting stats)

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What I'm loving AND how pintersting

I'm going to do a double whammy today! 

What I'm loving today:

1. I love that I have a SKYPE interview Friday morning with someone in a Missouri school district and I'm kinda nervous and excited!

2. I'm going to a White Sox game tomorrow night! :)

3. I love that I have only about a week and a half until my half marathon. I've been stressing out about if I've been training enough---so I just kind of want this half marathon to be done with. 

4. I still love that I'm working everyday and making a little money

5. I love that Gulianna and Bill are expecting their 1st baby this summer via gestational carrier! 

On to....Pinteresting Wednesday.

I hosted a thirty-one party this past Friday night and had a blast putting it together. I like to make any excuse to throw a party...like appetizers, drinks and a good time!

First- the drink. The Sarasota. We tweaked it a little bit, but it was a delicious!!

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Then, appetizers. Taco Dip. This one is meatless and you couldn't even tell. One of my friends is a vegetarian and she was so excited when I told her it had no meat. (Disclaimer---mine looked a lot better than this one)

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Another appetizer. The ever so famous, not an ounce left, pizza dip! There are not enough words to describe how scrumptious this is!

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Last, dessert! My sweet, sweet friend made these and Oh-Em-Geee...I could of had them all! They were so moist and delicious-I highly recommend them!

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Oh and of course those delicious ranch oyster crackers that I've pinned on here before!!

We also had cheese and crackers, shrimp cocktails and veggies and fruit. I didn't need interest to figure those out. 

Here is a picture of my set-up.

Maybe in my next life I'll be a party planner! :)

My trip to DC

I'll try to make this post short and sweet...

My grandpa passed away last October. He was a POW and survivor of the Bataan Death March in WWII. He requested that he be buried at Arlington National Cemetery. After he passed we had contacted Arlington and we had to prove that he was indeed a POW for 2 1/2 years, a survivor of the Bataan Death March and we needed to give them his army number (or whatever the army used back then to identify you). We eventually found all the required paper work and were then put on a 'waiting list'. We had a choice of month (season) but as to request a specific weekend, or day was near to impossible.

Fast forward to April 13th. The day my grandpa was put to rest at Arlington, with the whole 9 yards--- guards, american flag, etc. It was truly such an honor to be a part of and my grandpa's life came full circle.

My whole family spent the whole weekend in DC and had a great time.

(Each star represents 100 soldiers who died in WWII)

The White House!

Very Pinteresting Wednesday

My very first link up to Pinteresting Wednesday!

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I want to make this for The Boy. I still have all (or most) of our movie, concert, etc. tickets! :)

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I made this for christmas presents for my grandma and aunts this year! :) They loved them!

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Perfect thing to get for my mom for a special occasion!

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Made both of these. Bluemoon cupcakes > Corona cupcakes...in my opinion!

I find this fascinating....

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I laugh every time I see this.

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MY FAVORITE E-CARDS SO FAR...

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My love for Pinterest has not gone away!!

Finally!!

I've been issued my teaching certificates!! I can't wait. I'm hoping and wishing I get the honor to have my own classroom this fall.

I've also been running like crazy! Yesterday I ran 6 miles with my Dad. That's the most I've run without stopping. Go me!

Along with running comes staying hydrated (check!) and eating healthier and watching my portions (check!)

This week has been very good to me... Can't wait for Easter weekend!

Nick and Nacks

Since I ended student teaching I have been doing a lot of different things. I have been still applying to any district within like a 60 mile radius of my house. I'm not holding my breath until August. I did however land a part time job in the school I student taught in a first grade classroom doing small interventions. I'm excited to get back into the classroom and this job keeps my face known and keeps my foot in the door. These days a job opportunity is all about people you know and networking.

In other news, I saw the Hunger Games last weekend and was very, VERY pleased with the way it was made. I also just finished the 3rd and final book of the series and I can't wait for the next 2 movies to come out. What other books have you read that you could recommend for me??

Half-Marathon Update:
I ran 5 miles yesterday with my Dad and I felt great. I really think I could have done the same route twice.  However, I woke up this morning and my knee hurt. I hope with some ice and ibuprofen it goes away so I can run again tomorrow.

The Boy and I last weekend out and about

Does anyone have any advice on looking for jobs in other states? I mean anywhere! Do you love where you live, love your city, etc. I want to hear all about it!!