The Year of Virtual Runs

Not being able to run or do any physical activity, really has me thinking. Even before my surgery, I knew this year would be less races so I can concentrate on other goals and the kids activities. I don't want to completely stop running or racing, so virtual runs seems like my best bet.

The benefits:

• affordability: most virtual runs are a lot less expensive. Saving money will allow me to stay focus on other financial goals I have for the year, and if an emergency comes up and it's less of a burden then dishing out a few hundred bucks on race registration and travel expenses.

• bling: there's almost always bling. After all that's what most runner truly love.

• convenience: that's the best part. With my husband's new work schedule racing on weekends will be next to impossible. I probably could get family to help out here and there if I plan well enough in advance, but even weekend long runs would be come an issue. The convenience of running when it fits best in my schedule makes a whole lot of sense.

• charity: I enjoy running with a purpose, and most of these runs always have a charity which a portion of the proceeds go to. 

I've also never been a real competitive runner. The mental accomplishments have always been my favorite part of the sport. Running more virtual runs will also allow me to not be so caught up in my pace. 

So I should find out more when I have my post op appointment on Monday, but I was original quoted 4-6 week no lifting or physical activity. If all goes well my first virtual run will be the Love 2 Run. That should be feasible, and a great way to kick off the year. 

Do you regularly run virtual runs?

Be Well,

LaToya

Flashback to my First 10k!

So I'm still in awe of the facebook memory that popped up on my timeline yesterday. Flashback to four years ago and I ran my first 10k. It truly seems like ages ago.

It was only my second race ever! Also the first time doing anything over four miles. I remembered when I registered I was on a runner's high from my first 5k. Still very new to this whole running thing, and I was so hype about being a member of BGR! I had no business running anyone's 10k, but one thing I can say about this group is they really know how to "pour the Kool Aid." Basically that means they support you when you don't believe in your self.

It was this race where I caught the race bug, and truly witnessed the motto "no woman left behind." Again I wasn't trained. I recall hitting the wall right at the turn around spot- it was an out n back course. I would've been okay with walking the remaining 5k. These ladies would not let me quit. One sister prayed with me. Gave me tips on interval running and before I knew it, I had crossed the finish line. 

I guess you can say I've been hooked since then. 

Would love to post the pic but having technical issues. In other news I seriously need to look into self hosting because blogger is really blowing me.

Did Not Start

I bummed. Like totally hurting right now. I've had others before, but this one is really hurting me to the core. For the second time this year, I have a did not start. The first was the Rock n Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon I was supposed to run in September, and then this one.

When I first registered for this race, back in Spring my plan was to train for my first marathon. I got to about twelve weeks in a 20 week training program. I was discouraged about my pace. I was discouraged about not being able to juggle the training plan. So I dropped back to half marathon. A distance that is challenging enough, but I was confident I could complete. After all I just ran my sixth half marathon last month.

In the midst of all of this my training partner/ travel buddy got injured. I thought it was a sign, but oh well I would re budget some things because there was no way I was going to miss this race. Soon after that, my husband and I got our wires crossed and he could not take off. Another major setback. It quickly dawned me that my expectations were so unrealistic. Like me a marathoner, with two kids under six, a full-time, and no nearby relatives. Still there was no way I was going to miss this race. My plan B ( or made C/D at this point) was driving the kids to New Jersey to my parents after school work Thursday and then heading to Richmond. Hooray!

Here I am today, three days from the race. My brother had surgery last week. I went home to New Jersey to visit him and help with his rehab. Then my dad just calls that my stepmom has a ruptured appendix, and is awaiting emergency surgery sometime today.

That leaves me big fat did not start. 

Do YOU Boo!

A few weeks ago I stumbled across this image on social media. Whenever I find something that I can relate to, I save it to my phone. Sometimes I site the source and post it to my personal page. Most times I forget all about it, until I need to clear out some phone space. This one was different. It really resonated with me. 

Then I was having a convo at work about upcoming races. This was slightly after I ran BRF. Those who knew I was running, asked about my race and congratulated me. There were a few people who were shocked. Conversations with two people really rubbed me the wrong way, and I just kept coming back to this message.

Of course it was the comparison to the other runner. Who might I add totally rocked the race. She's a Boston Qualifier and runs a sub 8 min/mile. Then it was "oh wait you did the half? I didn't even know you ran." Another chimed in "OMG you're a marathon runner?!?! I can't believe I didn't know. I won't get into the nitty gritty because all of that is besides the point.

My point is yes I am health conscious.  Yes I do go to the gym, and try to watch what I eat (oh I also got "wow you've been eating a lot of salad lately." ) Yes I am a runner. I'm also overweight (okay obese by some standards). I don't look like a "runner or a yogi." I look like ME. I'm also a working wife and mother of two. I have two degrees in Exercise Science and have been a certified personal trainer for seven years. My journey started in October 2012. I'm not where I want to be, but I'm not where I was either. That's doesn't make me any less of anything. You don't have to fit the ideal prototype to live a healthy lifestyle.

Comparison is the thief of joy. I think now with social media, the comparisons are 100 times worse. Just think of the countless times we look at a friend's page (or a complete stranger) and begin comparing. So what. Everything that appears to be perfect is not. You don't know what someone endured or is currently enduring that got them to this point. Focus on you. Set your own goals. Document your journey. Have fun! Enjoy the process. At the end of the day,  All you have to do is DO YOU BOO! 

Baltimore Running Festival Race Recap

It's Medal Monday, and I'm thrilled to share about the bling I earned this weekend. Before I get into the deets, let's back track a bit. So four years ago I completed my first 5K! I'm still in awe that I've kept up running this long.I knew this year I wanted to commemorate it with challenging myself both mentally and physically. I thought that was going to be tackling my first marathon, so I originally registered for this race as a long training run.

Leading up to Saturday, my training for the Baltimore Running Festival was very hit or miss. Since my original plan was to run a marathon I was running fairly consistently. Once I decided my goals were not so realistic I slacked a bit. Okay a ton! Then life happened. I worked twelve straight days, and then I got sick. Needless to say I think prior to the race, I maybe ran once in the last three weeks.

Fast forward to the Expo! I opted to attend the two-day event Thursday after picking up the kids from school. Traffic was a nightmare. I probably lapped the convention center two or three times before opting to park in a nearby garage. I'm so not about the city life! I quickly grabbed my bib and shirts. Since I had the kids with me, of course we had to take a potty break and I used that time to try on my shirts. I had no intentions of shopping at any of the vendors, so we proceed through pretty quickly. The kids had a blast though! There were some vendors with giveaway and the kid left with goodies bag of their own. Their excitement really gave me the boost I needed two days out from race day.

Pre-Race Ritual: The night before I did my usual  mom/wife stuff. Had a light dinner. No carb loading for me. Set my alarm and laid all my clothes out. Sorry no "flat me" as I was still battling this sinus infection. I was scared to take anything, but was in bed by 8:30. I was still worried about how I was getting to/from the race. Race organizers and my run buddies all recommended the Light Rail, but I've never ridden that thing. Trying to decipher the schedule was giving me anxiety, and I kept bugging my husband who works nights. Once he game home around 1:30ish he tried again to tell me where and how to get off. We agreed it was better for me to drive.

Race Day: My drive to M&T Bank Stadium was breeze. No traffic. I was worried the parking lots would be filling up, but luckily I was early enough to grab a sweet parking spot right near the finishers festival. I rested in my truck for about 45 minutes before finding my way to the start. Boy was is cold at zero dark thirty. Thankfully I found a few familiar faces and kept my hands warm with a cup of coffee, then hit the port o' potties. No jitters, just ready to do the damn thing!

5K:

Lots of chatting and pictures snapping at the 5K start line. Since I hadn't run in awhile I didn't really have a plan. I started very slow. The first mile+ was up hill so I did my intervals. By mile 2ish it was an awesome down hill! I found my groove and coasted to the finish line; keeping in mine I had another race left. Afterwards I mingled and chatted.

Half Marathon: 
Once I made my way over to the harbor side, it was great cheering on the full marathoners and relay runners as the half didn't start until 9:45. I had over an hour wait, but kept myself occupied. Also by this time the temps were warming up. One more port' o potty stop, and of course more pics. A few minutes before the start, I met up with my run buddies Chris and Tammy. They kept asking me what my goal was and what intervals I would be doing. I honestly didn't care about neither. In fact I left my Garmin at home (that'a first), and I had no intention of tracking my pace on my phone either. The half marathon had a 5.5 hour course limit my only goal was to finish smiling.

I was in the final wave (13+ mile) the first half mile or so was crowded. I knew to remain chill and slow. Again I didn't have any times goals. Just happy to be out there. Once I had some elbow room and the crowds started disperse, my strategy was easy  "run when you can, walk if you must." I did just that! I ran, I walked, I laughed, I took pictures, I high-fived and fist bumped all the amazing folks on the course. It was a great race experience. Truthfully yes it was hilly, but I was expecting worse.

Don't get me wrong the course was no walk in the park. Speaking of which those Patterson Park hills nearly took a sister out. I stopped at every water stop. About half way, which was near Lake Montbello I was really enjoying myself and good feel myself gradually speeding up. The music was huge boost. Most of the folks I paced with the first 5ish miles were behind me at this point, and I continued to thrive of the crowd support and seeing all the full marathoners. I'm normally more in tune my monitoring my splits, and for the first time I didn't care.

Coming back on Eutaw Street and seeing Orioles Ballpark gave me life!!!!!  One lady cheering yelled "Eutaw baby! I bet folks never been more excited to see Eutaw Street" I knew the home stretch was near and maintained a steady easy pace across the finish line. I did it!. 16 point freaking two miles. Never in a million years, would I ever had imagine I could to that. As the challenge was perfectly titled, I'm a proud Balti-moron!!!!

Post-Race: Getting home was surprisingly a breeze as well. I swung by Wawa and grabbed a sub (judge me all you want). I just completed my fifth half marathon and my longest distance EVER. So with the walking to/from the parking lots and cheering other runners, I logged 18 miles for the day and over 44k steps.

My Review: Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. The Baltimore Running Festival was probably the greatest race I'v ever experienced. Everything was great from the expo to the challenging course to the awesome crowd support. I'm far from fast, and take pride in being in the back of the pack. I never once felt alone out there today. Everyone was so encouraging. Besides my personal accomplishments, what was exceptional was the bad rap this city often gets and seeing folks come together from all different walks of life was simply amazing. Not that I ever doubted it before, but this race truly showed me why Balimore is known as "Charm City."

It's Over but It's Not Over

With about 60 training days left, my Road to Richmond is over. Woosah. This journey has been bittersweet, and I learned so much about myself during the last 10 weeks (give or take). A part of me is ashamed and embarrassed for even attempting to train for a marathon, and the other part of me is proud I even had the courage to start.

I pushed my body to unthinkable efforts. I woke up at ungodly hours (4am) and ran. I met some really cool people. I experimented with new nutrition. I made some impulse decisions. I listened to my heart and body. Training for a race of any distance is no walk in the park. Ask any runner and he/she will tell you if so everybody and their momma would be doing it. I respect the distance, and it ain't for me. Not right now anyway.

Like training, making this decision was also not easy. I went back and forth time and time again. I took three days off of running altogether.  I prayed. I enjoyed time with those that matter most. I researched training plans. I talked to my husband. I followed my heart.

So while I will not be continuing on to train for America's Friendliest Marathon, I will be running the half marathon. Also this fall I have the Rock n Roll Philadelphia Half and the Baltimore Running Festival Moron challenge.

Catch me on the pavement!

Be Well,

LaToya

Road to Richmond Wk 10

With less than 10 days to go, I'm still in the fight. My training has been far from perfect, but neither am I. I've had days when I've wanted to throw in the towel, and I've had says when I felt like hell yeah I'm going to rock this shit. Still I'm standing. One mile, one run, one pound at at time. 

Be Well,

LaToya

Road to Richmond Wk 8

I'm sure as hell glad this week ended on a high one, because it definitely did not start out that way. Sunday was brutal. I was pretty sore from the night before. Okay hella sore from my 8 mile long run, but was registered for a local 5k. Everything in me, really wanted to skip it. It was only 5 bucks. I got lost trying to find the park. My husband was playing in a softball tournament, and he really wanted me to support him. Oh and I just wasn't feeling it. Point blank period. I went anyway. It was definitely the smallest race I've even ran. Heck I think there's been more folks at a BGR! standing long run. With a 8:30 start time, it was hot and humid as hell, oh and it was hilly. Mentally and physically I just was not feeling it the entire 3.1 miles. Nonetheless I finished, but it was my worst race time EVER! 

That definitely f'ed my head. Monday was a rest day. No brainer there I could definitely use a day off. I had every intention of running Tuesday. I did not. Why a bunch of excuses. Wednesday I still really wanted nothing to do with running. I was seriously thinking the hell with this ish, and I'm quitting. I knew I had to do something. 

It wasn't a run, but I walked and did something. My plan was to get miles in Thursday and Friday, but that didn't happen. Again, I was really over it. I looked through my Twitter account, and remembered some advice from Hal Higdon. Something to the effect, that you will have bad runs/days/weeks but stay focused, and don't try to make up missed workouts. So I'm like alright Toy, you got this! My training plan called for 10 miles on Saturday. I met up with my run buddies at some ungodly hour, and we were off. Somehow I left my water and fuel in my car. Big no-no. Despite how horrible of a week I had, there was a tad bit of confidence like yeah I've breasted 10 miles before. Negative. The mental games started somewhere between miles 6-7. Probably bc it was 80% humidity, and I was thirsty as hell. I kept my usual mantra, I can, I believe, I will. It got me to 8.9. Logically I'm surprised I didn't crash sooner, and was impressed how far I had gone without anything. At this point the two 12/13ish mile girls were out of my sight, and as I looked behind I couldn't see the walkers either. I tried to push through. Like 2 miles...30 more minutes. My body gave out on me. My upper body felt horrible. I could tell my posture was comprised, and I immediately tried to tighten my core. Push through I told myself. Negative. I just couldn't run anymore. I felt even a tad bit nauseous. I started to walk. I walked until 9.5 and the "faster girls" we're waiting for me. I wanted to thank them, but I couldn't. They were being so encouraging. I walked some more. Turning off my Garmin and App at mile 10. There was another mile to my car. I left felt like dropping to my knees and crawling. My pace dropped some more. I had never been so excited to see my car. I gulped that Nuun water like it was nothing. Then we took plenty of selfies, and waited for the walkers. 

The struggle is REAL. I'm still in awe that I'm training for my first "m word". Yeah that's exactly what I call it. 

Weekly Total: 18 miles

Total Training Miles: 75.27

Be Well,

LaToya

Road to Richmond Wk 7

This week was a huge test for me. I can see why so many say marathon training changes you. I encountered the good, bad, and the ugly this week.  Here's how my week went.

Sunday: Rest

Monday: Took another day to rest from completing 9+ on Saturday

Tuesday: 2 mile neighborhood run. This should've been 3 but the heat & humidity took me out.

Wednesday: Core/ Cross Training

Thursday: 2 treadmill miles + weight

Caught in a thunderstorm. We took a pic leaving the YMCA

Friday: Rest

Saturday: Group long run

Weekly Total: 11.8
Monthly Total: 57. 27 (that's a monthly PR for me)

Road to Richmond Wk 6

Wahoo! I survived another week of training. For the past six weeks, I've been avoiding the "m word", and haven't really publicly announced what I'm training for. Each run, each week my confidence is growing. Yes there is still some doubt and fear, but in the back of my mind there is a glimpse of hope that I CAN DO THIS!

With that said, I'm training for "America's Friendliest Marathon!"

Here's my recap for the week:

Sunday-Tuesday: Lots of excuses + work deadlines + family time= NOTHING

Finisher's blanket. This definitely motivated me! 

Wednesday: 3 miles

Thursday: 3 miles

Friday: 3.67 miles

Saturday: 9.64 miles

Total for the week: 19.4
Total training miles: 59.78

Bring on the double digit long runs......I got this!

Be Well,

LaToya

P.s. Are you training for a fall marathon? Whether you're a veteran or a first-timer like myself, drop me a line. Which race are you training for.

Road to Richmond Wks 3 & 4

Week 3: 

Still nursing my IT band injury I only got in one run in this week. Thankfully it was pain free, but the 5 miles my training plan called for.

Week 4:

Sunday: REST! I was tempted to do something (BWC 5k) but erred in the side of caution. Trust me I've gone through the "no pain, no gain" path before and that was not one I wanted to try again. 

Monday: Techinally this would've been a rest day, but I had to do something. I opted for an easy walk. Basically I flip-flopped the two days. 

Tuesday: Nada! The struggle is real. I think reality is sinking in that I just need to divorce distance running. Why be stressed? Why risk injuries? I'm working mother of two, and due to my family's schedule it is extremely difficult for me to get in these mid-week long runs. I'm only setting myself up for failure. Realistically, I probably should stick with 5k-10 milers. Tomorrow's another day right? 

Wednesday: Cross Training

Thursday & Friday: Just slap a huge slacker sticker across my forehead.

Saturday: 

5 miles!!! As you can tell by the pic, I was uber excited. Thankfully again it was pain free, I stuck to my intervals, maintained a decent pace, and some very encouraging words from my run buddies. What more could a girl ask for, right? 

 Be Well,

LaToya

Road to Richmond Wk 2

If I had to sum up my week in one work it would be painful. Gosh darn it, and that it was.

The pain started late Saturday night, so I opted to skip my Sunday stroll. By Monday I was pretty darn swore, and I was like ok one more rest day. Before I knew it I was almost in tears. My old faithful IT band had once again flared back up. Funny thing I swore I was being cautious. I only ran small inclines no real hills, my mileage wasn't nothing to difficult (for someone starting back up), and I was sure to stretch after every run/ walk.

Apparently my body didn't get the message. All week I've been resting, foam rolling, and stretching. I even took a few epson salt baths, and need Tylenol to sleep through the night. The pain has subsided some, but still uncomfortable if my hip is flexes for an extended point of time.

I've self diagnosed myself with hip drop. Given my background, I know only rest and strength training will prevent this.

Whelp my totals mile for this week is a big fat 0. Here's to continuing on the journey.

Be Well,

LaToya

Road to Richmond

Well today marked week 1 of 23 on my road to Richmond. I ended the week with 3 runs, a little shy of 8 miles. 

I still haven't publicly told anyone which distance I'm training for, and I honestly plan to keep it that way. The race itself has an 8k, half marathon, and a marathon.

When folks ask me what I'm training for I just say Richmond. I'm not ready yet. Those who truly know me, know I'm very introverted. I've never been one to boast or brag. No shame or shade. Perhaps when I'm ready, I'll reveal my goals but for now I'm keeping things tight lipped. 

When it's all said, and done I'll be like Boom! In the mean time, I'm trying my darnest to stick to the plan. There maybe a few other races I tackle in this journey. They will be used as training runs.

S/O BGR! for the extra push this am!

Be Well,

LaToya

Rise & Run Done

Happy Saturday!!! I haven't blogged or ran in what seems like forever. Hate to make excuses, but this dreadful Maryland weather is partly to blame.

Nonetheless the sun was shining this am, the temp was just right ( low 50s), and I decided to rise & run.

It wasn't my best. It wasn't my worst. The thing was I got it done!!! 

You can say it was the unofficial start to something big this Fall. Nope not sharing (quite yet)! I feel like when I post my goals, I jinx myself. All I can say was I was inspired from some Black Girls RUN! ladies (although I haven't ran with my local chapter in month), and there's some special things in the works. 

Enjoy the rest of your weekend! 

❤️ LaToya Lives Well

I Miss Running!

Never in a million years would I ever have thought I would miss running. Then again I never would have guessed I would begin running to begin.

Nonetheless, the spark was ignited in October 2012 after I ran my first race. Since then I have ran my fair share of races ranging from 5ks to half marathons. My last run (and race) was the Trenton Double Cross 10k, and I miss running.

That runner's high is the truth. I miss the spark. That badass feeling after setting a new PR. The "me time". Exploring new areas, and being in touch with nature. I also miss my running peeps. The infectious camaerderie, is like no other.

Funny part is, when I ran I never considered myself a runner because I didn't look the part. Ya know? Now that I haven't ran, I feel the need to call myself a runner.

I'm definitely looking forward to returning to the pavement (sooner rather than later). Now that I'm adjusted to my new work schedule, and the family's schedule, I'm hoping to get back into a routine. Realistically, I'm not focused on any races at this point. Just getting back out there.

Have you taken a little hiatus from running? How did you motivate yourself to get back in the groove?

Be Well,

LaToya

To Race or Not to Race...

After having a disappointing 2015, I vowed to not run any races this year until I got to my goal weight. But I'm itching to get back on the pavement. Naturally that means registering for a race or two. Probelm is, in the past I spent too much time and effort planning a race calendar, and life happens. Whether it's a family event, financial struggles, or I just no longer am feeling the race. Then I'm out of a crap of money.

So what's a girl to do? To race or not to race, that is the question.

Here's a short list of what I'm thinking:

St. Patty's Day 5k

Sole of the City 10k

St. Michael's Half

Baltimore 10

Rock n Roll Philly Half

Baltimore 5k

Trenton 10k

Across the Bay 10k

Race it Baltimore Half

Winter Running Must Haves

Winter solstice is right around the corner, and while its still up in the air, whether I'll be running (outdoors) this year, here are  a few must haves before you step foot on the pavement.

Compression Gear: it's often a pain to put on, but definitely worth the extra pennies. Compression gear is a definite must for stay warm and protecting your muscles this winter. Oh and you're a frugalnista like myself, Champion's line sold at Target is effective and resonably priced.

Wool socks: for runners taking care of your feet, is like taking care of the tires on your Vechile. Many are aware about mileage on their shoes, but don't ignore your socks. I prefer wool socks in the winter,  it only for keeping my feet warm they can also prevent blisters and frostbite. 

Safe routes: another " no brainer" but common sense is not always so common. Don't hestitae to drive your route before heading out for a run. Also be sure to keep an eye out for shiny, clear ice patches. If it means avoiding a certain area, more walking vs running, or even choosing the "dreadmill", always remember safety first. 

Hats/Gloves: keep in mind cotton is rotten, even when choosing your hats and gloves. Go with a moisture wicking blend. Most stores that sell active gear, will have the appropriate fabrics not just for your base layers, but for your hands and feet as well. 

Lastly everyone has thier own goals and threshold for running outdoors, here's a handy guide for what to wear at various temps. 

Be Well,

LaToya

Winter 2015- Run Buddies 

Trenton 10k Recap

Saturday I completed my 11th race. The Trenton 10k, and if I had to summarize this race in one word it would be epic.

Since I started my running journey three years ago, I've always registered for races that I've had some sort of personal connection with. This was no different. I'm a proud Jersey Girl, born and raised. Also having personally driven many of the roads on the course, it was kind of a no brainer.

The drive up from Baltimore County was definitely hectic. I dashed home from work, straight to pick up my son from school, then home to get my husband and daughter. Of course I was nervous about making it to the expo on time. Thankfully, traffic wasn't to bad. In a little under 3 hours and 2 hungry, cranky kids later I made it.

The expo which was held at the host hotel, featured numerous vendors, race organizers, and packet pickup. Since I was pressed for time, I quickly got my bib and left since my family was waiting in the car. That was definitely the least amount of time (and money) I've ever spent at a race expo.

After getting everyone settled, it was time for my race night rituals. Like many other runners, I have to lay everything out the night before. 

Staying at my mom's was convenient (and cost effecient), but I definitely didn't sleep well. It wasn't the first time I travelled out of town for a race, but the first with my family. I didn't get to bed until well after midnight, and needed to be up at six. 

Race day morning, I woke up got dressed and declined my mom's offer to drop me at the start line ( regretted that post race). Breakfast was half of a wheat sandwich thin with butter and jelly, and water. Luckily the start was about an 8 minute drive, but parking was a nightmare. 

I highly suggest paying for the VIP parking or getting there early (before 630 am) for street parking, otherwise you might be like me and be about a half mile away from Arm & Hammer stadium.

Once paring was secured, and I made my way to the stadium, it felt more like a reunion than a race. I saw family, friends, and run buddies from near and far.

I arrived with plenty of time for selfies and warm-ups before making my way to my staring corral. 

The half marathon and 10k begun together (a few minutes after 8am) exiting the stadium, and hitting the streets. Highlights of the 10k course included running through a tunnel,

across capital city's infamous Trenton Makes the World Takes bridge into Pennsylvania, 

through neighboring towns, and across the Calhoun St bridge back into New Jersey. 

I noticed more than a handful of folks terrified of running over the bridges. Meanwhile, I used the time to take in the scenery and grab a few pics of the streets I've driven on. 

Aside from two small inclines around miles 1 and 5, the course was mainly flat (even a few downhills). The home stretch was definitely my favorite (sorry no pics). 

As runners (from all the distances) made there way back to the stadium, music blasting, spectators cheering, you run the diamond of the Trenton Thunder (minor MLB team for the NY Yankees) baseball field. As you cross home plate, announcers called out each finishers name and location, while a video finished displayed on the Jumbotron. How cool is that?

From there I made my way to the Finisher's Festival for some much needed nourishment. Next was the team tents, for my second finisher's medal. 

The second medal was another one of this race's perks, as Black Girls RUN! registered over 900 ladies. 

More hugs and selfies, then it was that dreadful half mile walk back to my car. 

Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. So there you have it. This Jersey Girl, now living in Maryland conquered two states, two bridges, earned two medals, in one race. 

I tied my record in this distance (not bad for only two runs in the last four weeks ), rekindled my love of running, and reassured myself that this is definitely my favorite distance. 

Epic race folks, definitely will be back.

Be Well,

LaToya

Last Distance Race

Happy Wellness Wednesday! It's been so long since I've said that, and it feels even better to be blogging today. Hopefully life will settle down a bit, and I can pick back up with my weekly prompts.

last run

Welp, today is Week 5 Day 3 of my half marathon training, and in case the title wasn't enough of a giveaway I'm pretty sure this will be my last distance race (at least for awhile). Why you might ask? Training (if that's even what I can call it) has been very much hit or miss. Each week has presented a new set of challenges; as it should. Just not the type of challenges I had in mind.

Getting ready for my fifth half marathon, I felt very confident when I registered about not only a PR, but finally breaking a sub 3. Matter a factly, I purposely chose this race, based on several recommendations of a fast & flat course. Everything was just right (or so I thought). Registration ✅ New shoes & sports bras✅ Hotel book✅ Training plan ✅. Then everything began slowly spiraling out of control. 

Juggling MCM (definitely not the marine corps marathon) motherhood, career moves, and marriage in the admist of training has made me quite the DebbyDowner  the last few weeks. If it's not one thing, it's another. Truthfully, I honesty feel like saying the hell with this race, and just concentrating on the two 10ks I'm registered for. My Type A personality, won't let that happen. So for now it's literally one day/ mile at a time, and as heartbreaking as it is this will probably be my last distance race.

Be Well,

LaToya  

60 Days Away

I can't believe I'm 60 days away from my fifth (and possibly last) half marathon- Rock n Roll Philadelphia. If you've read any of my post recently, you'll know training had been no walk in the park. 

Through the many ups and down, that life has presented I'm still very much determined to not only finish this race, but PR. Now will I get my sub 3 probably not, but I'm doing (almost) everything I can to ensure it.

So what's been in my way? One word LIFE. Yep, I'm sure many can relate. While I'm not the first (darn sure won't be the last) wife and mother of two to train for a distance event admist job/career challenges, and family events, I am and I will. 

The next few weeks things won't get any easier, but I won't give up.