SWEAT

1) to perspire, especially freely or profusely
2) to exude moisture, as green plants piled in a heap or cheese
3) to gather moisture from the surrounding air by condensation.
4) (of moisture or liquid) to ooze or be exuded
5) (informal) to work hard

You may have noticed a new badge on my blog, to the right of the posts... and wondered what that was about. Well...

I am proud and excited to announce some fun news:
I am now a Sweat Pink Ambassador!

The Sweat Pink Ambassador community is:
"a place for enthusiastic, positive, inspirational people to connect and support each other in reaching their goals around health, fitness, life... and more. It's a place where we come together and celebrate what we have and reach for even more. It's a place where new friendships spark and running buddies find each other; where you'll always find a cheerleader or a word of advice."

The Sweat Pink mission:
"We believe that kicking ass is best done in pretty shoes. We've learned that real women sweat, and sweat hard. We know that assertiveness, strength, and ambition are the ultimate feminine qualities. We concede that sometimes it takes hours to get ready, but we’re also no strangers to just rolling out of bed and going. We’re convinced that we run faster in pink shoelaces. We believe in pushing ourselves, and we believe in giving ourselves a break, too. We’re all about the rush of endorphins and the thrill of the challenge. We’re all for looking great and feeling even better. We’re committed to finding our best fit, and making it stick."

This is the first blog community I have joined and I have already been inspired by these women. It is so helpful to be included in forums about running or training for a half marathons and fun to get opportunities to review health-related products. You will see me participating in these as much as I can, as well as using the #sweatpink tag on instagram.

Also, I have 10 sets of pink shoelaces that I am going to give away to girls who inspire me to keep progressing toward my fitness goals! Could that be you?

Again, I am really proud to be part of this community. I look forward to bringing you along with ride with me as I continue to SWEAT.

HIGH FIVE

1) to move or gesture in celebration or greeting in which two people slap each other's open palm with their arms raised
2) greet with a high five

Happy National Running Day! 

In honor of this day, it seems appropriate that I finally get around to talking about the 10k I ran recently: the Snohomish Women's Run. This was the first 10k in a series of three that we have planned before our half -- you know, to keep our training honest. This run was also the first 10k race I have completed and I must say, I really enjoyed it! Not as long as a 15k but not as short as a 5k...juuuuuuust right! It was during this run, I was reminded why I run...

I will be honest, sometimes I run for the goodies (cute bibs, quality shirts, medals, etc.) and I was initially drawn to this run because it had an awesome finishers' medal. But I am glad that I signed up for this run for so many other reasons. This was inaugural Snohomish Women’s Run and other than not having enough shuttles to transport people to/from parking/event locations, everything else seemed to go off without a hitch. A beautiful, flat course out in the country -- exactly what I was looking for!

This was my first all-women event and I really liked the atmosphere. There were super fit racers, moms, pregnant ladies (who ran faster than me), teenagers, grandmothers -- you name it! Seriously, it was quite the spectrum. But we were all there because wanted to push ourselves and we all joined together in this community of runners to do so. 

My all-time favorite moment was in my 4th mile of the race. The course was an out and back loop. As we were on our back route, we crossed paths with those in the beginning of their race. Someone stood out to me: a woman running alone, who was looking exhausted. As I watched her jog, I couldn't help but be proud of the hard work she was putting in. She didn't make excuses like "I could never run a 10k" or "I am tired" or "I don't have a workout buddy". It didn't matter how fast she was going because she was beating everyone who was on the couch at home. She put one foot in front of the other and didn't stop. She didn't over-think it, she just keep going. As we were getting close to passing each other I felt compelled to let her know I was rooting for her -- so I ran across the the course towards her, gave her a high five, and she gave me a huge smile.

I run because I believe in a life of fitness. 
I run because it strengthens not only my mind but my body. 
I run to encourage others -- because I turned "I could never do that" into "I will conquer that". 

Additionally, the Snohomish Women's Run's charity partner is Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County which is a cause that definitely is worth supporting. I had many sorority sisters that volunteer for the Domestic Violence Services in Hillsdale County, so it made me feel as though it was my chance to help the cause. 

All-in-all I had a great experience (I ran in 59:19). We had a blast exploring Mukilteo at our packet pick-up the day before and enjoyed an amazing brunch after our race at Arnie's (go there...seriously). This run makes me look forward to my next two 10k's and then my half! Until then I will keep running and keep giving HIGH FIVES!

ILLUMINATE

1) to supply or brighten with light; light up
2) to make lucid or clear; throw light on (a subject)
3) to decorate with lights, as in celebration
4) to enlighten, as with knowledge.
5) to make resplendent or illustrious

If The Color Run and The Electric Run got married and had a baby -- it would be the Cosmic Run. Here you have the colored powder component from the Color Run and the glow-in-the-dark nature of an nocturnal race from the Electric Run. Just when I thought I had seen it all..

What is crazier than this run, is the fact that other than The Slime Run -- I can't remember the last race I ran that was a 5k. Can you believe that?! 5k races and my relationship with running have both come a long way. 

The course went throughout the Puyallup Fairgrounds, which was similar to the Electric Run -- but I have to say, the Electric Run was much more fun. The Cosmic Run didn't have much to look at in between color/glow stations. I thought there would be more in the way of glow-in-the-dark decorations, etc. Also, they spaced the waves too close together so there was a MAJOR backup, resulting in the "Cosmic Walk"...or "Cosmic Standstill".

Despite the logistics issues, Roz and I still had a lot of fun. It was hilarious to look at ourselves under the blacklights at the after-run dance party! AND just like at the Electric Run, the Fisher Scone station was open -- so Roz got to have her FIRST fair scone. Of course, she loved it. 

This will be my last short distance run for awhile (in fact, I think I have had my fare share of "fun runs"), but I am glad I had another chance to experience a nocturnal run and ILLUMINATE. 

STRIDE

1) to walk with long steps, as with vigor, haste, impatience, or arrogance
2) to walk with long steps along, on, through, over, etc.
3) to straddle

I don't know about you but I have had an extra pep in my stride ever since February -- not because I joined the quarter century club, but because THE SEAHAWKS WON THE SUPERBOWL.

(Feel free to relive it here. I know I can't stop smiling about it.)

When I heard about the Seahawks 12k, an event that combined my love for the Seahawks with my new-found hobby of running (always training for that half!) -- I was quick to sign up! And I was lucky enough to have Roz sign up with me. She happens to be a 49ers fan -- but is a good sport and loves races. 

Race day was GORGEOUS! It was the first spring day that reached over 70 degrees and there wasn't a cloud in the sky! We seriously could not have had better weather. Not only was the weather perfect, but the course was hard to beat. We started at the Renton Landing with a confetti send-off, then ran out to the Virginia Mason Athletic Center along Lake Washington Boulevard, and back (side note: if you are ever at the Renton Landing you MUST go to World of Beers). Trust me, VMAC is the most beautiful training facility in the NFL. 

Although my pace was a slow 10:48, resulting in a net time of 1:22:34 -- I was still in the best of moods. My day involved my running bestie, Seahawks, sunshine, a new experience, and a new race length -- so in the words of Matthew Wilder,  "ain't nothin' gonna to break my STRIDE."

CLIMB

1) to ascend, go up, or get to the top of, especially by the use of the hands and feet or by continuous or strenuous effort
2) to rise slowly by or as if by continued effort
3) to ascend or rise
4) to slope upward
5)to ascend by twining or by means of tendrils

Now that I have officially wrapped everything up with the BIG CLIMB (every last thank you is in the mail!) -- it is time to FINALLY give a recap of the event. 

Last month marked the third year I participated in the BIG CLIMB, as we celebrated my Uncle Tiger's "3rd Birthday". Team Uncle Tiger was bigger and better than ever this year -- and my heart was seriously exploding with love. 

This year brought some new faces (Jo shared the position of captain with me and with her help we had a team of TEN!) and faster times! After last year, I was a bit nervous about beating my time. The first year I hustled up in 16 minutes, then last year I devoted time to actually training -- which resulted in a time of 14:30 (just 30 seconds slower than Sebastian!). Cutting almost two minutes from my time was a big jump -- but this year I have been training consistently (shout out to my co-workers that walking 14 flights with me every day to help me prep!) and working out harder/smarter, which resulted in a PR at 13:26! Phew! What a relief...until next year...

This year was my absolute favorite year of participating in this event. I loved getting to share my Uncle's story with new people on the team who are not only inspired by LLS' mission -- but are climbing to celebrate someone in their own life who has been affected by blood cancer. My mom came to support this year and it meant so much to me to have her there. It was truly special to share the event with my mom, have her experience the awesome energy in the building and have her meet all of Team Uncle Tiger, which is a gift to her sister's husband.

After the climb, we put together a little surprise package to send off to Uncle Tiger. When he received it, he emailed me this note: 

"Hey guys:

The 'surprise' arrived yesterday.  Thank you so much.  I will frame the poster and hang it in my office.  I'm hoping to wear the [Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's 'Survivor'] shirt to my oncologists office in March of 2015 so he can see what a great job you have all done to support his efforts. Thanks again for all you do. 'One day at a time.'
Uncle Tiger"

Receiving this email further cemented the reason I do the BIG CLIMB. Climbing up 1,311 stairs is no easy feat -- but as my chest aches, my heart throbs in my ears, and my quads cramp up, I think of the journey my Uncle went on, to death's doorstep and back to a strong, healthy life. There is absolutely nothing harder than that. And until every story is one of success, I will continue to CLIMB.

PS. If you are interested in participating in the BIG CLIMB next year, whether on the climbing or racing side -- Team Uncle Tiger would LOVE to have you. Leave a comment with a your contact email and I will touch base with you. The event sells out quickly, so I want to make sure you are up-to-date with happenings. 

ENDURE

1) to hold out against; sustain without impairment or yielding
2) to bear without resistance or with patience
3) to admit of; allow
4) to continue to exist; last
5) to support adverse force or influence of any kind; suffer without yielding; suffer patiently
6) to have or gain continued or lasting acknowledgment or recognition, as of worth, merit or greatness

If you are an avid VERBS reader (Hi Mom!), you may recall my love/hate/growing relationship with running. If so, you will be just as surprised as I am at this post. 

Last year I shared my 8k experience. It was the first time I ran a race longer than a 5k and the first time I really had to run alone. Despite the fact I wasn't trilled about it as it was happening, I finished that run with a key take-away: "finding you are capable of more than you thought is a super cool feeling." Ever since that run, I've noticed a little voice in the back of my mind that keeps telling me to go further.

An 8k opening up the idea of running distance plus with a friend who loves to run equals me registering for a 15k. I figured I would have plenty of time to train (don't I always say that?) and it would be good for me to listen to that voice, try something new and test my endurance. 

As usual, the race snuck up on us and we were one week out. ONE WEEK and I had yet to see if I could even run 9 miles. So figuring we would have enough time to overcome any soreness in the coming week, we set out to endure 9 miles. 

This will sound crazy -- but this test run will remain as one of my all-time favorite runs, ever. Roz and I set out for Greenlake just before dusk approached (yes, I promise I ran with mace in my hand!). The welcoming Greenlake atmosphere was calming -- as I was a little nervous about what my impending run was going to feel like. Once we got down to the lake, we took off. The first three miles were a breeze (that distance I had trained for...). As we approached the spot where we began my legs felt stronger than ever and I was really excited-- I had never kept going past this point! The second time around (6 miles) felt solid. Running wasn't as easy, but my pacing felt good and sustainable -- I was being patient. I chose to signal for a quick 30 second walk. Big mistake. As we changed pace I could feel how heavy my legs had become over the first six miles. I knew I needed to finish the last 3 mile lap but I really did not want to pick back up. 

The last lap was hard and completely dark -- which was a beautiful sight! I had never run in the dark or seen Greenlake like this in the dark. I had to feel this run, not distract myself with sights. Mile 7 took all my mental strength to start running again, mile 8 brought a very slow pace, and mile 9 brought the pain. By the end of the run I was probably "running" slower than most people walk -- but I was still going. 

When we finished running, I was elated -- running (practically) the whole time. As we walked (read: hobbled) to the car, I couldn't believe we had done it! It wasn't the most beautiful form or the fastest time -- but I knew I could complete 9 miles! Then it was time to warm up, and celebrate with some Pho!

Race day came and I ran my firsk 15k (Hot Chocolate 15k to be exact): 5k split 32:06 / 10k split 1:06:09 / net time 1:37:29 (pace 10:28). It may have been slow and steady (on a terrible course and not ideal weather) but I did it! I was so thankful to have Roz running by my side (read: in front of me) and Sebastian waiting for me at the finish line -- those two rock my world. It definitely helped to reward ourselves with hot chocolate, fondue and then a breakfast feast! 

Just like the 8k opened up the idea of distance, the 15k opened up the idea of a half. If I can run 9 miles I can run 13.1, right (ok...that's a stretch)? So I would like to announce that Roz and I have signed up for the See Jane Run half marathon ("I run for chocolate and champagne)" in July! Before that I will also run the Seahawks 12k, Cosmic Run 5k and the Emerald City 10k. The quest for medals has begun!

If you have ever thought about testing yourself, do it! Sign up for an 8k, 10k, 15k, or half and see what you can ENDURE!

Ps. If you are wondering, the bib holder was a Christmas present from my sister and you can find them HERE!

FROLIC

1) merry play; merriment; gaiety; fun
2) a merry making or party
3) playful behavior or action
4) to gambol merrily; to play in a frisky, light-spirited manner; romp
5) to have fun; engage in merrymaking

A couple of weeks back, Roz and I frolicked in The Ugly Sweater Run 5k. We had a blast getting into the holiday spirit with this event. We were decked out in our ugly sweaters, fun socks and leggings, and best of all -- antlers! 

The course took us through Magnuson Park on a clear, crisp day -- the kind of day that keeps me thinking I should really stick to this running thing. We promised each other that we would break out of our Greenlake habit and come back to Magnuson! And the best part of this run was that Roz really pushed me -- we finished in just over 24 minutes! I never have 8 minute miles!

If I count my 8k (Beat the Bridge) then I have reached my new year's resolution of running five 5ks (but don't worry if I don't count it, I still have the Turkey Trot)! I am thankful that I found all of these fun runs to get me into running. In the future I may start to tackle some distance -- but for now  I will enjoy the FROLIC!

STICK

1) to remain attached by adhesion

2) to hold, cleave, or cling

3) to remain persistently or permanently
4) to remain firm, as in resolution, opinion, statement, or attachment; hold faithfully, as to a promise or bargain

Four years ago I tried bikram for the first time. It was suggested to me by my physical therapist as I was wrapping up treatment. At the time my ankle had freshly healed from a flip flop accident, which resulted in a fractured bone and two torn tendons. I was itching to exercise -- me, not the runner me, wanted to run. I wanted to get my heart rate up, to challenge my body, to work out again in some full capacity. So, "give hot yoga a try" he said. 

My physical therapist told me that hot yoga would do more for my weak muscles and healing tendons than anything else. I would get a cardio workout, while strengthening and toning my muscles. You know when you get the feeling something is too good to be true? Well I got that feeling -- but I was wrong. 

It was true. Hot yoga absolutely blew my mind. The workout was incredible and left me feeling exhausted, refreshed, and wanting to stick to it. AND for first time students at Hot Yoga Inc., you could try 10 classes for $10? An amazing workout at an incredible price?! Wow. 

Unfortunately, once I wrapped up my 10 classes -- I found out that hot yoga was way too expensive for a poor college student to afford. So we broke up, but not a day went by when I didn't think about getting back to it.

Luckily this January, Groupon came to my rescue (as it always does!): twenty classes for $20 at the same studio (different location) where I first tried bikram. I believe in serendipity -- and this was most definitely a serendipitous moment! I was SO happy to get back into the flow, so much so that before my classes ran out I signed up for monthly unlimited, and I haven't looked back. 

Practicing hot yoga has changed me, without a doubt. I can see (and I have had others tell me they see it too) a physical difference in my body. I  see toning that I have not seen from any other workout. I can feel a difference in my mental strength. I feel that my mind is willing to push as much as my body is. I feel like I want to stick to whatever challenge I am facing, to persist and to succeed. I have found the combination of both mental and physical strength to simply be still, and to find inner peace. In moments of chaos, I know how to settle my soul. And most importantly, I find that I am constantly humbled in my practice. 

My practice was also changed when I purchased "The Mat" from Lululemon. This mat is the most expensive one they sell -- but it is worth every penny. "The Mat" is sticky (and heavy!), so you do not have to use a towel and it wicks away sweat while you are practicing (you can see a crime scene outline of my body from shavasana, and it will disappear by the time I am in eagle). With this mat I can actually feel like a warrior, when I am in my warrior series. Cleaning is simple, with baking soda and water or lemon and water. So simple, yet such a game changer. 

I really can't say enough positive things about hot yoga. I am so thankful I have a studio I love, where I want to constantly challenge myself in each class to STICK.

CURE

1) a means of healing or restoring to health; remedy
2) a method or course of remedial treatment, as for disease
3) successful remedial treatment; restoration to health
4) a means of correcting or relieving anything that is troublesome or detrimental: to seek a cure for inflation

This past Sunday I ran 1,311 stairs in 14 minutes and 30 seconds. Insane? Yes! But worth every hard-to-breathe, legs-ready-to-give-out moment as I participated in an event that is VERY near and dear to my heart. 

For those of you who are unfamiliar, the BIG CLIMB (Seattle) is one of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's biggest fundraising events every year. The event itself is a stair climb up the Columbia Tower - the tallest skyscraper in downtown Seattle. There are 69 flights of stairs, 1,311 steps, and 788 feet of vertical elevation. This year registration sold out within a matter of weeks, as approximately 6,000 participants gathered in the fight against blood cancers.

Last year my sister and I created "Team Uncle Tiger" in honor of my uncle who was celebrating his first year in remission from leukemia. (Side note: "Uncle Tiger" received his nickname via three-year-old Shannon, as he was wearing a Lacoste polo which obviously meant he was MY Uncle Tiger...needless to say it stuck!) The first time we participated we chose to do the "climbing" side, where the goal is simply to make it to the top. We thought that would be a good place to start. Despite the physical challenge of climbing 69 flights of stairs, you are supported by all those around you as you work your way to the top -- together. When I reached the top (in about 16 minutes and 30 seconds, of course I still timed myself), I was overcome with a rush of happy endorphins which prompted me to announce "let's do the racing side next year!"... Although I knew it would be more challenging on the timed side, I reminded myself that it would pale in comparison to what blood cancer patients, like my Uncle Tiger, go through.

(Additional side note: I will be completely honest -- I believe that no amount of training truly makes the BIG CLIMB any easier. It is simply extremely physically demanding. To prepare, my teammates and I (and supportive friends) would go out to the Howe Street stairs, the longest consecutive set of stairs in the Seattle area. I challenge you to get out and try it! You will get an amazing workout and enjoy a stunning view from the top.)

But this year in addition to the physical rigor, the racing side takes some major mental stamina. Last year on the climbing side, we were sent up in twos which allowed for some comradery as you motivate each other. But the racing side staggers entry one at a time...with most people listening to their headphones -- the combination of those two factors leaves the only motivation in your mind. 

At around floor 34, I was ready to throw in the towel. I started too fast and I was really struggling with my breathing (if you run enough stairs, you will become fast friends with "the hack"). But then I remembered that I had a poster made for my uncle and I had yet to see it. With each set of stairs I checked the upcoming wall to see my Uncle Tiger smiling at me...over and over...the more floors I passed without seeing his poster, the more excited I became because"they must have put him at the top!" Once you have ten floors left they have a poster of countdowns for you. With five floors to go you can hear the music from the observatory. At three floors to go I started to run! Finishing at 14 minutes and 30 seconds (proudly just thirty seconds slower than Sebastian). 

You are probably wondering about that poster that motivated me to keep pushing? Well, I never saw it. Turns out it was around floor 49 (thankfully my teammates saw it and snapped a quick picture with it), and I had missed it altogether. In the end, the point really wasn't about seeing the poster. I was being motivated by my love for my Uncle Tiger. If he could beat leukemia -- I could run 1,311 stairs. 

I get all weepy just thinking about how thankful I am that my Uncle is in remission and how proud I am of my team (raising almost $2,000). In fact, I probably cried three times the day of the event. But regardless of how thankful I am or how blessed we are that my uncle was able to find a perfect bone marrow match -- no progress can be made in the success stories of others without funds for research. 

Without funds, there is no research. Without research, there is no cure.

I will continue to participate in the BIG CLIMB (and other LLS events) and I will continue to help raise funds with for this VERY worthy cause. I want to hear more stories of success, like my Uncle Tiger's.

CLIMB. CONQUER. CURE.