Marathon Flamingos

New Year, Fresh Start

2006-01-04T12:45:00.000-05:00

2005 is past and 2006 has taken over! What will change in the New Year? Many people ponder that question and try to renew themselves in various ways through New Years' Resolutions. We see people making an earnest effort to improve upon some aspect of their being: weight loss, better physical fitness, more attention paid to spouse, etc. Unfortunately, before many days, a lot lose sight of their goals and slip back into old habits. Changing takes discipline, devotion, time, and cheerleaders! While deciding on what changes to make in the new year, surround yourself with others who will positively influence and support you.

My support person (Hubby Flamingo) and I have gotten back out on the streets and trails. Though we sometimes do it grudgingly, we both feel 100% better after returning from a walk or finishing a video workout. And as far as my weight loss goals, Weight Watchers is really helping with that. It's great to go to a meeting and hear the stories of others who are trying to make healthy changes in their lives. It helps me to stay focused and motivated (besides that, I'd really like to fit into my favorite jeans again!)

I hope that you all are able to find the encouragement you need to make the changes you want. It really makes all the difference.

Best wishes in the New Year,

SF

Oh that slippery slope!

2005-12-27T10:05:00.000-05:00

We (Hubby Flamingo and myself) have slid down the "no time to get out" slope! HF had the flu, then family visitors and Christmas came; the time, energy, and dedication slipped away. I got some really nice training tools for Christmas, so hopefully those combined with my desire to lose weight will get us back out on the right path to fitness and healthy living. It is a continuous process, that's for sure.

Best wishes to all for the New Year!

SF

A rough week

2005-12-13T15:07:00.000-05:00

Well, this is looking like a rough week and we're barely three days into it. I just can't seem to get motivated. There's just too much crap going on - with the holidays, with work, in my personal life... I'm feeling very overwhelmed, and it's making me eat bad foods and avoid running. This is NOT the most healthy way to cope, but it's how I'm coping right now.

The only thing that saves me on weeks like this is the fact that my job keeps me on my feet A LOT. I'm an intensive care nurse, and I don't spend a lot of time sitting. I work 12 hour night shifts, and when I take a pedometer to work it isn't uncommon for me to log 12000 steps. I just can't sit still when I'm on the job, and this keeps me from turning into a total couch potato on these bad weeks.

I guess I just have to tough through it. I'm going to consider it a successful workout week from here through the first of the year if I get three workouts in each week. That's doable, I think, even during the worst slump. And I'll hold out hope for a better routine after the first of the year. In the meantime, hope all of you are having fun with your holiday preparations! Stay pink!

NF

We need a do-over!

2005-12-07T09:01:00.000-05:00

Last week was a TERRIBLE training week for Hubby Flamingo and me! We are requesting a "do-over" training week, so that we can get back on track. Today, we are half way through our training week and have been doing much better than last week. I guess as you all know, things come up that make getting out to run/walk or do other exercise a low priority. We dealt with minor sick bugs and major cold, wet weather! We tried to do a cardio workout in our house, but that did not go over well with my mother who lives in an in-law suite downstairs. She thought we were being attacked by a herd of elephants! Needless to say, that workout was cut short. I am traveling this week (in the verrrrry cold mid-West! brrrr!), so I have exercise rooms to keep me going. HF is doing pretty well at home, too.

Moral of the story, even if some weeks are bad training week...don't give up. Get out the next week and get it going again!

Later,

SF

Dance Revolution

2005-12-06T15:22:00.000-05:00

Or, How I Got Hooked on a Video Game...

Do any of you out there have teenagers? What about teenage boys? Well, I have three of them (two still living at home) and they love video games. I think we have every video game known to man.

A couple of years ago, the boys got a game for Christmas called Dance Dance Revolution (yes, there are two dances in the title) and started playing it now and again. One night they were playing it in the living room and asked if I wanted to try it. I did, and was immediately hooked.

The game has a dance pad (and you have to buy it separately) that acts as a controller. Japanese pop music plays on the television and arrows scroll up the screen. You have to strike the corresponding arrows at exactly the right time with your feet to the beat of the music. Sound easy? Trust me, it isn't - particularly on the more difficult settings.

The neat part is that there is a workout mode, and you can program in the number of calories you want to burn. I just programmed 500 calories for my workout today, and it took about 4o minutes to reach it. But, I don't just step - I jump on the pad as fast as I can. See, the thing is, you get so into playing the game that you forget you are exercising. I have been known to play so much that I develop blisters on my feet! It's that addictive.

There are reports of folks all over the country losing a tremendous amount of weight using this program. For me, though, it's a cross training workout that is pretty darn close to sprinting. This is because, as I said earlier, I jump as fast as I can! It improves my foot-eye coordination and my foot-strike speed, as well as increasing my anaerobic capcity. This makes those fast runs just a little easier. Here is a website that talks about Dance Dance Revolution as a weight loss tool: http://www.getupmove.com/

So, if you have kids who turn into little couch potatoes in the winter, or if you just want a change in your work-out routine, give DDR a try. It's one of the healthiest addictions I know of!

Stay Pink!

NF

Frozen mix...

2005-12-05T10:03:00.000-05:00

The weather report for East Tennessee today says, "frozen mix." This means, I guess, a mix of rain and snow. Well, I was just out in it a few minutes ago in my new, warm running pants, and I didn't feel the cold at all. Okay, my ears were cold, but that's my own fault - I didn't wear a hat or an earband.

Today was just 45 minutes of running wherever I felt like it, at whatever pace I felt like running. Overall, it was a pretty good run. I took two very brief walk breaks, and kept a solid pace going in between the breaks.

I have a new strategy for work. Since I have to do those awful 12-hour night shifts (okay, they're not THAT bad!) and that lets me have three or four days off every week, I'm going to concentrate on running long on my days off. On the days I have to work, I'll just try to get out there and run a couple of miles. I'll also schedule off days as work days, so one or two days a week I can just come straight home and crawl into bed. :)

I'll keep you posted on the new plan, and how well it works. In the meantime, hope everybody is having a great holiday season so far! Stay pink!

NF

Training so far...

2005-11-29T12:11:00.000-05:00

So, in order to not look like a total doo-doo bird I have to let you all know that I do understand that there are mountains in Kentucky! I just flew over the flat part last week.

Training is going well so far. Hubby Flamingo and I have logged in some miles and are getting more and more invested in making progress. We have both been losing a bit of weight and enjoying being more active together.

Hope everyone out there is doing well and had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Not too long before that next big holiday is upon us!

Keep on, keeping on,

SF

Kentucky

2005-11-21T09:47:00.000-05:00

I flew over Kentucky (I don't know which part), but it looked pretty flat! I thought that was a good sign.

It is cold outside and here in NC, RAINY!!!! I can deal with cold by itself, but when it's mixed with wet stuff I'm just no good! I can't stand it. And I know, we need the rain, the rain is good, yeah, yeah, yeah... I just don't like to be cold and then get wet on top of it!

This is a week of over indulgence and ballgame watching...Flamingos be strong and resist that third helping of pie or at least if you take it go an extra mile!

Best wishes for a happy Thanksgiving!

Sassy

Baby, it's COLD outside!

2005-11-18T09:01:00.000-05:00

Okay, pinks, this is one chick who is NOT acclimated to the cold. I don't have the right feathers, I am sure. I'll have to do something to correct that little problem.

I finished work this morning and came home and it was freezing here in East Tennessee. I am not kidding - it was 22 degrees out there. But, being the valiant flamingo that I am, I managed to run slightly over three miles before giving it up and coming in to the heat. Now, my goal was four miles, but did I mention it was freezing out there????

I am going to hit the hay now and when I wake up, I'll be searching for some warm feathers - and maybe a heated running suit! Stay warm and stay

The Virtual Personal Trainer...

2005-11-16T03:28:00.000-05:00

I'd like to introduce all of you to my personal trainer. Her name is Maya, and she lives on a video game CD called "Yourself Fitness" produced by ResponDesign. You can check out the website here: http://www.yourselffitness.com/

Maya has the ability to draw from 500 different exercises to give me an individualized workout any time I want one. She uses my fitness level, assessed at the beginning of my workouts with her, and reassessed every ten workouts, along with my goals, to set up a workout program that fits my needs. I tell her what exercise equipment I want to use (she can accomodate hand weights, an aerobic step, a stability ball and a heart rate monitor) and how long I want to work out (15 minutes to one hour) and she does the rest.

The program includes a meditation garden - 15 to 20 minute random yoga workouts that are a great way to finish up your exercise session. It also includes a diet plan with menus and recipes for different caloric intake levels. It could really be a full weight-loss program, if one needed such a thing.

I use Maya as an adjunct to my running program. I'll do a video workout on cross training day, or after a short run to beef up my calorie burn. Sometimes, if I just can't face going outside, Maya is an acceptable substitute. Anyway, it beats sitting on the couch with a bowl of ice cream, and even if I do wind up later on eating ice cream, at least I've bumped my metabolism up before doing so.

I only have a couple of issues with the program. One, you can't tell Maya you've already worked out by running earlier in the week, so she sometimes makes snarky comments about working out more often. Two, I think her breaks are too long. I solve this "problem" by doing another set of exercises during breaks, thus burning more calories and getting a better workout. Three, the fitness challenge settings max out at a pretty low level, and if you're at all fit you'll hit the maximums by the first couple of assessments, and then you're on your own as far as tracking your progress goes. Still, those are minor details and they don't detract from the ability of this program to give you a kick-butt workout in the privacy of your own home.

Yourself Fitness is available for the Playstation 2, Xbox or your computer. You can even find it on E-bay. http://www.ebay.com/ Just search for Yourself Fitness. If you're uncomfortable going to the gym, or just want to avoid those monthly membership fees, I think Yourself Fitness is a viable option. Whatever you do, though - stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

A Tough One

2005-11-15T10:43:00.000-05:00

Today was a tough workout day for me. I started off feeling all gung-ho, remembering yesterday's run and anticipating more of the same. I was fine for about the first 1/4 mile and then the dreaded fatigue struck. I felt like I was running through molasses. The ground was grabbing at my feet and clinging for dear life, and every step took so much effort! I didn't think I could make it.

I tried a short walk break, which sometimes works by giving you a brief rest before you have to get moving again. No good. I was tired and I just didn't feel like running. This was one of those days where I just had to push myself. I kept reminding myself of how it feels to finish a marathon. That incredible sensation when you cross the finish line that there's NOTHING you can't accomplish is amazing - and I want to feel it again.

So, I finished the run and now I feel pretty good. Of course, I always feel pretty good after the run - it's getting through the run that's sometimes a challenge. Barbie Flamingo always says that it's those tough days that define you as a runner. Anyone can do an easy day. And, I think she has the corner of the mrket on tough, so....

Anyway, I hope all of you are able to successfully conquer your next challenge, whatever it might be! Have a pink day!

Nurse Flamingo

Week 3 Training

2005-11-14T12:31:00.000-05:00

Sorry that I'm not being too creative with my title lines!

This past week went really well with training and Weight Watchers! My hubbie flamingo, baby flamingo and I did 4 miles on Saturday. It was great! We're doing a run/walk routine right now and like I said both felt really satisfied at the end of the run. We have also done well on our "during the week training" averaging 3 nights during the week, then both days of the weekend. We will work to get that fourth night in, but our schedule the past couple of weeks just has not allowed it.

Some of the days that we go out, we have a hard time getting out of the house because we are enjoying doing nothing or we are trying to get ready for the next day, but invariably we feel much better after the exercise than we did before. So, if you're feeling held back by worries, too much to do, or couch-glue...try taking those first few steps, you will feel better that you did.

Have a great week!

SF

The Daily Grind

2005-11-14T08:49:00.000-05:00

Well, pinks, I am back after a bit of an absence. I changed jobs and moved and have been pulling some overtime to try to get on top of things. I've been trying to stay active, but not doing as well as I ought to be (and certainly not as well as Sassy is doing - you go, girl!).

I set out for a run this morning thinking it was going to be horrible - it is gray and cloudy and misting rain here right now. The ambient temperature is very comfortable - maybe 70 degrees? - but I just didn't feel like running. I pushed myself, though, as we must if we are going to be successful marathoners, and the run turned out to be fantastic. I felt good, I ran easily and I stopped after about three miles feeling like I could have done more - always a good feeling!

Sassy mentioned water intoxication in an earlier post, and she is right - it is definitely something for runners to worry about. Here are some links to articles on the subject.

http://www.hhp.ufl.edu/keepingfit/ARTICLE/toomuchwater.htm
http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0NHF/is_8_18/ai_86649699 http://www.amaasportsmed.org/news_room/hyponatremia_reuters.htm

We definitely need to get educated on the subject! Kudos to Sassy Flamingo for bringing it to our attention!

Nurse Flamingo

Week 2 Training

2005-11-09T12:48:00.000-05:00

Here we are on hump day of Week 2. Training for me has been going well so far. Last night I had to go to a certain chain retailer that carries everything from tires to toothpaste, so did not get out to run/walk. I'm sure that I probably covered at least 2 miles while shopping, though!

I'm also nearing the end of my first week in Weight Watchers. It's been going alright thus far. The truth will be told tomorrow at my second official weigh-in. I'm doing the core plan as it allows me more flexibility in the amount I eat, though what I eat is more tightly controlled.

Hope all Flamingos are doing well!

Sassy

Hyponatremia

2005-11-04T14:45:00.000-05:00

Last night I saw a show on HBO (the sports one with Bryant Gumble) that was talking about Hyponatremia, more commonly known as water intoxication. Very serious stuff that we need to educate ourselves about because it is becoming more common among novice marathoners. It tends to affect shorter female novice marathoners to be more exact. If you haven't heard of it, please do some reading and research. I found several articles online by typing "water intoxication" into the google search engine.

Happy, safe weekend running to all!

Sassy

We're on a Roll

2005-11-03T11:04:00.000-05:00

My hubbie and I have been out hitting the pavement in the evenings and it has been really nice. The dog is enjoying the exercise, too.

Besides starting the Jeff Galloway Beginner Marathon Training program this week, I am also starting Weight Watchers (today!). I know that it's not a great idea to start two new activities in such a short time, but I think it will be okay since the JG program starts off slowly and builds. Besides that, I'm down on my weeks before my son is a year old and I've got to get the weight off. I don't think that I am allowed to use the baby weight excuse after 12 months! And then there is the issue of turning 30 a month after my son's one year birthday...I want to be Thirty and Fit! Fitting into my velvet pants for my party certainly won't hurt either!

Today's a day that you can be on your way!

Sassy

On your mark, get set, GO!

2005-10-31T08:57:00.000-05:00

Today is the day, we flamingos are off and on our way!!

Isn't it exciting? We are at the start of our 26 week training schedule. My husband and I got a head start yesterday. We walked briskly about 3 miles. We have decided to scoot the days on the Jeff Galloway training schedule, so that what is planned for Monday we do Sunday, etc. It works better for our schedules to have Friday off and long runs on Saturdays.

I'd love to know how everyone else does on this first week! Best wishes and Happy Halloween!

Sassy

Getting on track..literally

2005-10-26T12:44:00.000-04:00

When I say literally, I mean that I am going to start going to the nearby university's track after work to run. My BF and I want to start walking the stadium steps and running together on the track. He loves my new running shoes so much, he just bought the same pair in men's! It's the New Balance 766, I think it's just what I need. But I also want some new socks.

Note- the best blister-beating socks I have found are "2 layer" socks. You can find them in athletic apparel stores...there are many different brands. When I ran the Chicago marathon in 2003, I was wearing Saucony Grid Hurricane shoes with two layer socks...and didn't get a single blister! My feet were completely fine (no toe nail issues, either- make sure those shoes are long enough)! I think I may have covered them with some body glide, pre race- another trick of mine. Body Glide looks like a stick deoderant. It's like a salve, you apply it wherever you might get friction. Definitely under the jog bra. It helps immensely- you should find it where running stuff is sold.

So I need to get on track again. I had a lull in my Nutrisystem food shipments, and went off program a little. I think I am still holding steady, but the exercise has slowed down as well. Now that I have my food together, I am ready to really kick butt. My BF is very encouraging, too.

I find it difficult to find time to exercise, too. I did some pilates in the morning this week and it was wonderful. I really think the morning may become my workout time. I have too much going on after work- it is so easy to make excuses then.

Stay pink flamingos!

Phoenix

Get out those hats...

2005-10-25T15:45:00.000-04:00

I don't know about elsewhere, but this week it has turned chilly in North Carolina! Usually flamingos prefer to bask in warmer seasons and climates, but we have chosen to break tradition and play in "burrrrr" weather! I wonder if training in fur hats and muffs is politically correct or if we should just find some good synthetic materials to keep us warm?! ;)

For anyone running with little ones, check out the Snug Bug Bag (www.snugbugbag.com)! I have the order form completed and plan on getting one for my little guy. We already got him some mittens and a ear-covering winter hat!

Pink days ahead,

Sassy

The Time is Nearing

2005-10-21T16:09:00.000-04:00

Well, crew, it's almost time for us to get serious about training for this marathon. Yesterday I did a week count-down and Oct 31 is the day we get this pink party on the road (or treadmill or trail, whatever the case may be!). I am very excited and hope that you all are, too.

I know Phoenix is anxiously awaiting the arrival of her new running shoes and I am seriously contemplating the need for new, sassy running duds! I'm ordering a Snug Bug Bag (or something similar) for my baby runner to keep him warm. Sometimes something new is just the motivation that needed to get out and go...

Have a pinky, pink weekend!

Sassy

Very Early or Rather Late?

2005-10-19T10:59:00.000-04:00

As I ponder my involvement in training for the marathon, I have to make a decision about when exactly to get out there. I now have a rather lengthy commute to and from work, so I will either have to get up even earlier or forgo some of my evening in the house time. I haven't figured out which will work best.

Getting up in the morning is already a challenge, so if I was feeling unmotivated I could see myself hitting the snooze a few dozen times while my head stays on my pillow. The coming cooler then colder weather will play a hand in this plot to keep me in bed, too. Maybe early waking/running is not the best plan for me.

My son goes to bed at about 7pm (which he is trying to push to 730pm) and I try to make a point of rocking him to sleep every night. It's important to me that I do that. So, I could potentially go out directly after that, unless of course it's Tuesday night! Okay, that's what I will do. It's funny how things just pile into our days and distract us from taking care of ourselves!

Thinking pink,

Sassy

Success! Or Something Like It....

2005-10-14T15:27:00.000-04:00

I just got off the telephone with Barbie Flamingo and she says she feels pretty good! A little sore, but overall pretty good. In true Barbie fashion, she's up moving around and has already started physical therapy.

So, it looks like we've got our little birdie back, pinks! Rejoice! :)

As for me, I'm eating well, and I've lost five pounds. But, I'm still hit or miss on the exercise. We go out of town next week (one of my not-so-little chicks is graduating from Army Basic Training) and I think I'm just going to try to maintain the status quo until we get back.

In the meantime, Stay Pink!

Nurse Flamingo

An Injured Flamingo

2005-10-13T13:36:00.000-04:00

Well, Barbie is getting repaired today. She told her surgeon that she wanted to take care of the problem now because, and I quote, "I have a marathon to run!" Wonder how often he hears that from anybody but Lance Armstrong? Well, leave it to a flamingo, right?

She was in good spirits last night, but she looked like she was really uncomfortable. She switched positions often, and couldn't stay in one spot for very long.

I haven't heard yet how she's doing, but we'll post as soon as we know something. I expect a call from her husband as soon as they know something. Keep your feathers crossed, pinks!

Nurse Flamingo

A different race

2005-10-11T12:29:00.000-04:00

Hey Flamingos,

Well, the Stones concert was awesome! But this bird had too much beer, at least for on who is trying to lose weight! And Sunday I wasn't that great either...but I was back on track Monday.

I ran both Sunday and Monday and really need a day off today. The legs are TIRED. Still doing my regular 30 min on the treadmill: run 5, walk 5. I know that's not the Galloway plan, but it's hard to put the speed up and down as often as his plan would require. I am itching to get out on some real trails and try his run/walk plan when the weather gets better.

I have made the decision that I don't really want to run the Derby Marathon. It's a little too soon for this out of shape body...I don't want to push it. A Fall marathon is the way to go for me. And I would rather run in Portland or NYC anyway...so I am going to continue to train (with Sassy sometimes, we are developing a plan to meet on the weekend) but will not be registering for the Derby Marathon.

I hope it is ok to remain a flamingo and post here with all of you!

Phoenix

Long time, no blog

2005-10-11T11:07:00.000-04:00

This is Sassy Flamingo checking in. It's been a while since I have written a post, so I thought I'd pop in and say hello!

It's interesting that Nurse Flamingo has posted information on dieting because I am currently keeping my feathers crossed that I will get in the new Weight Watchers program at work! I sign up on Thursday and hope that there is not an overwhelming response that prevents this bird from getting in.

I also find it interesting that two other flamingos are following eating plans and so far seem to be having positive results. We can each report on the different ones, the ups and downs, etc.

Best wishes to everyone!

Sassy

The Flamingo Diet

2005-10-10T14:20:00.000-04:00

So, what should a flamingo eat while training? Well, fittingly enough (because Flamingos love the tropics), the South Beach Diet is not a bad choice. You can find information about the Beach here: http://www.southbeachdiet.com

Weight watchers also has a pretty good program. You can find more information about their ideas here: http://www.weightwatchers.com

Then, too, there's my favorite - the Body for Life program. You can find information about this program here: http://www.bodyforlife.com

But, if you'd rather spend your dollars on more flamingo-suitable things, you can come up with a reasonable diet strategy all by yourself. The simplest way to do this is to cut out all processed foods and then let hunger be your guide.

Because it's hard to stay disciplined 24/7, I allow myself a cheat day once a week. This helps tremendously with cravings because I know that if I'm dying for chocolate I can have it on Sundays. I don't go overboard on the cheat day, but I do try to have some of whatever I've been craving through the week. It makes a huge difference. Now if I could only get off my rear with some regularity, I'd have it made!

Stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

Shopping Flamingo

2005-10-08T18:48:00.000-04:00

Today, my exercise consisted of shopping with my niece. She is five years old and is a very girly-girl. We hit the Disney Store, Sears, and Toys-R-Us. All the important shops. :) We came home with a sparkly doll that lights up, and a cell phone that lets you talk to all the Disney princesses. After all, who doesn't need Ariel on speed dial?

Still struggling with consistency on the training front. I have lost a few pounds, which is nice, but I've lost it through watching what I eat. I'm not exercising nearly enough. So, tomorrow is a new week, and I intend to get off my duff and get moving! I'll keep you guys posted!

In the meantime, stay pink, and get Cinderella on the line for me! I have a glass slipper emergency!

Nurse Flamingo

Slowly but surely

2005-10-08T11:17:00.000-04:00

Just checking in to say that I attempted running again last night...I did the treadmill again. Has anyone told you to run on the treadmill at 1% incline to better mimic running outside? Has to do with wind resistance and different footing or something...anyway, I kicked my ass again. It did feel a little bit better. I ran a little faster, too. The fact that I was sitting at my computer at work all day also made a difference- I wanted to MOVE!

I am seeing the Rolling Stones today. It will be a challenge not to eat poorly and drink lots of beer. I am going to eat healthy food before I go and drink lots of water in between beers!

Good luck to all of you!

Phoenix Flamingo

I'd like to introduce myself

2005-10-06T19:13:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone,

My name is Phoenix Flamingo, not for the city but for the mythical bird which never dies, but rises from the ashes! I feel like that has been a metaphor for my life recently so I find the name appropriate. Sassy Flamingo is a coworker- we both just started working at a new company together. We got to know eachother and she learned I wanted to start running again, so...here I am!

My statistics are as follows: overweight, ex smoker, out of shape. I have started to get my act together by 1. quitting smoking, 2. starting a diet (nutrisystem), and 3. starting to exercise again.

I ran the Chicago Marathon in 2003 and finished in over 6 hours. But HEY, I finished! I did not train the way I should have, and I have wanted to try another marathon ever since then...and now seems the prefect time.

I started running my freshman year of high school in cross country, and eventually became a captain my senior year. I have been running off and on ever since. I put on a lot of weight recently, and I am looking forward to losing it. My goal is to lose 60 lbs, and I have lost 7 so far.

I am thankful to be a member of the Marathon Flamingos!

My current fitness level and regimen are the following:

I do 20 minutes of pilates 3 times a week.
I walk/jog on the treadmill or in parks for 30-40 minutes 2x a week.
I do 30 minutes on the ellipitcal once a week.

That's an average. Yesterday I did 30 min on the treadmill at 1% incline, alternated walking and jogging. I walked at 3.8 mph and jogged at 4.8 mph every 5 minutes. I thought I was going to die. I was sweating like crazy and my face was bright red. So yeah, I am outta shape!!!

I do have long experience with running, and also running a marathon, so hopefully I can be a good resource for everyone.

Tonight is not an exercise night...very tired from work. Was very hungry all day, I think it was from my tough workout yesterday. I just came home and ate a healthy dinner.

Take care everyone!

Phoenix Flamingo

A New Flamingo!

2005-10-06T15:59:00.000-04:00

Well, thanks to Sassy Flamingo and her fantastic recruitment efforts, we are welcoming a new flamingo to the group! This is wonderful, because we are growing and because you can never have too much pink, right?

I will let her introduce herself at her own pace, but suffice it to say that we are all delighted to have her and look forward to reading her marathon adventures!

Stay Pink!

Nurse Flamingo

Back home...

2005-10-05T16:12:00.000-04:00

Well, this flamingo is back home and the cabin in the woods is just a faint memory.... I hate coming back after a mini-vacation! I hate getting back to reality! It was nice to get away.

The cabin was overpriced and many of the things in it did not work properly. The area was pretty enough, but I think all of us were a bit disappointed in the accomodations. Needless to say, I am not recommending it to any friends!

I stayed pretty well on-track with my eating. Just a few lapses - most notably, warm apple cobbler a'la mode from The Apple Barn in Pigeon Forge! Even there, though, I shared with one of the kidlets and so had only a few bites of the good stuff!

Exercising, on the other hand, is proving harder to stay on track with. I'm still struggling with motivation. I guess it's an ongoing battle. I hope your personal battles are going well. In the meantime, stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

Camping Flamingos

2005-09-30T07:36:00.000-04:00

Sassy Flamingo, your e-mail addy is bouncing back my e-mails. Can you send me your newest contact info?

Well, this flamingo is going away for the weekend, so you won't get any more updates from me until after Monday. We are going to a cabin in the mountains for a couple of days. I am looking forward to some playtime! :)

Here's how I plan to stay on track during my break: I'll eat healthy 75% of the time; allowing for probably two cheat meals while I'm there. I'm taking a supply of oatmeal, tuna and cottage cheese and there should be local produce available.

For exercise, there's running and hiking, and my next weightlifting day will be next Tuesday. So, not ideal, but I shouldn't lose much ground either. The hot tub at our cabin is going to feel great on these sore muscles, because yes, I am still battling the soreness. I always do. :(

Barbie Flamingo will be out there with us (for those of you who don't know it, Barbie and I are married to brothers, so we wind up hanging out together sometimes. Plus, she's kinda fun, now and again, so....) and the challenge will be to limit her activity so she doesn't reinjure herself. That girl doesn't know the meaning of the phrase, "take it easy..."

I'll let you know next week how it went, and we might even post some photos, assuming I remember the camera. Take care and stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

Walking Flamingos

2005-09-29T16:33:00.000-04:00

You know, I talk to a lot of people about being a flamingo. Most women are delighted by the idea and think it sounds like great fun. However, many of them wish there was a group like ours for walkers.

Well, why couldn't there be? Why can't we have the Walking Flamingos (or something along those lines) as a subgroup? It would serve a lot of purposes. We'd be able to be more inclusive - always a good thing, I think. There are a lot of people who don't feel able to run, and incentive to keep walking would be great for them. In fact, a flamingo who lacked confidence or experience could start in the walking group and work her way up to the runner's group. I think we'd be much less intimidating to women if they knew there was a walking option.

I think the option of becoming a "Walking Flamingo" for a period of time might be good for those times when our motivation is in the toilet, as well. Perhaps if we had the option to step it down a notch it would be easier to pick it back up again. I know right now when my motivation is down, I tend to retire to the couch with a big bowl of ice cream. This does NOT do anything for my health and fitness, and it makes it much harder to get going again. I think a walking option is much better than a week off eating junk food.

Finally, what about injuries? We're dealing with that right now with our very own Barbie Flamingo. It may be a couple of months before she's running again, but she is managing to walk without too much difficulty. Walking is something that is useful for rehabilitation from a wide variety of injuries.

So, what do you think, pinks? "Walking Flamingos" as a subgroup, with any flamingo having the option to "go walkabout" for any reason, no harm, no foul? No excuses needed? Give me feedback, folks!

Nurse Flamingo

Body for Life

2005-09-27T13:06:00.000-04:00

Okay, this flamingo is going back to a program that has worked very well for me in the past. I'm talking about Bill Phillip's Body for Life. You can find information about it here: http://www.bodyforlife.com/

It really is a fairly simple program that fits pretty easily into the busiest schedules - I just do longer workouts on the days I'm NOT working. I really did see some amazing results with the program, as one or two of my fellow flamingos can attest. The one problem I had was a tendency to get too thin - some problem that is, huh? I actually had to increase my caloric intake to keep up with my metabolism.

Here is one woman's success story: http://www.taskoski.com/raylene/home.shtm

The program can fit into marathon training - you just do a longer cardio segment than the book requires. I also modified the weight-lifting to two full-body days a week and got comparable results. This leaves more days open for running, and you can train perfectly adequately for a marathon on 3-4 days of running each week.

Wish me luck, fellow flamingos... not that I'll need it, though, because this program really works. I'll keep you updated on my progress!

Stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

Shakin' My Tailfeathers....

2005-09-21T17:31:00.000-04:00

Well, I managed to get up and run this afternoon. Not very long - just a couple of miles, but I did run hard. I used the treadmill at a 6% incline and it wore my butt out. I hope this is a positive development in my quest for motivation, but we'll see.

I was too wiped out to run this morning, and I'd really prefer to run in the mornings. This is an ongoing process, and I'm not going to get squared away overnight. I just have to stick with it.

So, I'm off to work and I hope all of you have a wonderful night! Stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

Still a Sleepy Flamingo...

2005-09-19T07:52:00.000-04:00

I am just having a terrible time getting out of this rut that I'm in. I think it's a combination of things. One, I'm readjusting to night shift. Two, I've been eating crap. Three, my running partner is temporarily sidelined - I'll let Barbie give you all the details when she's able to. Suffice it to say that she won't be running for a few weeks.

So, anybody have any great motivational suggestions? I could sure use some. I know the Running Blog folks have a lot of collective experience - I'm hoping they're willing to share some of that here? How about it, folks? List your favorite way to get motivated in the comments, if you get a minute. This flamingo will be very grateful for any help getting her feathers in gear!

Nurse Flamingo

Sleepy Flamingo

2005-09-17T08:12:00.000-04:00

That's it, I'm officially changing my name. Here I am, home from work, and can I drag my sleepy butt out the door for a run? No. What is wrong with me lately?

I don't know if I'm just getting older, or readjusting to night shift, or I'm too stressed, or if it's some combination of all of the above, but I am having a really tough time getting motivated this week.

The kicker is, I see people running and I feel an immediate pang of envy - I want to be out there! I've got to get myself back on track. I think I'll set my alarm today for four p.m. and try for a short run when I wake up. I'll let you know how it goes. Send happy pink energetic vibes in my direction, will you?

Nurse Flamingo

Tummy Troubles

2005-09-16T08:03:00.000-04:00

Well, I have completely blown my mileage this week. I have covered a grand total of 6 miles, after a stellar week last week. I am so disappointed.

The week started out well, then I had a cross-training day, then I went to the fair and ate garbage, then my stomach reacted in its usual fashion to the abuse and I was lucky to make it to work last night. What happened to the girl who could eat from street vendors in Brazil with nary a problem?

Maybe she went into hiding after one too many street vendor meals. Anyway, you'd think I'd learn my lesson and stop eating that crap, but it turns out I am simply AWFUL at learning my lesson. Ah, well - there's always next week, right? Meanwhile, I am cradling my bottle of Pepto-Bismol as I toddle off to bed. Well, at least it's pink!

Nurse Flamingo

A Flamingo Gets Her (Treadmill) Wings

2005-09-14T19:31:00.000-04:00

While watching my favorite inspirational show, The Biggest Loser (NBC Tuesday nights at 8pm), on its season premiere night... I figured out how to run on the treadmill without losing my balance and getting thrown off the machine! It was quite a wonderful moment (rather several b/c I ran for more than one minute!) in my flamingo running life. I have no trepidation surrounding doing training on the treadmill. It was, in fact, rather nice. I was able to incorporate a nice fifty minute work-out while also watching tv. That's the kind of multi-tasking that I like. During my fifty minutes I did some cross-training on the stair stepper, which was kicking my tail feathers! Thankfully, the guy on the treadmill finished his workout and I was able to move over.

Best wishes to all,

Sassy

Cross Training

2005-09-14T07:54:00.000-04:00

Today is a cross-training day for this flamingo. Yesterday was a tough, tough day - the kids and I had to really push to finish the three miles, and we had to do lots of pep talks and walk breaks. We all finished, but I want all of us to have a day away from running before we go back.

I don't want to take a day off, but I do want to shake things up a bit. So, for today, I am going to the gym and I'll use each of three cardio items for about tem minutes each, and finish off with a twenty-minute weight routine.

Other options for cross taining are biking, hiking, swimming, playing tennis - anything that gets your muscles moving and your heart rate up. Does shopping count as cross-training if I am rushing after bargains? :)

Cross training is great because it gives your running muscles a bit of a break while giving other muscles that may get underutilized during running a chance to get some work. This helps improve your overall fitness and helps to keep you from getting injured.

So, consider adding cross-training to your schedule if you aren't already doing it. You'll get a little break from running while improving your overall fitness and reducing your chances of getting hurt. A win-win situation, right?

Stay Pink!

Nurse Flamingo

Birds have small brains

2005-09-13T18:58:00.000-04:00

And mine is fried! In the South, they may enjoy that with sweet tea and a biscuit, I had better be careful or KFC might turn into KFF!

As I had mentioned before I, Sassy Flamingo, have started a new chapter in my life. That makes about four this year, so far! I am training for my new job that started yesterday. There is soooooo much information that my flamingo brain is on overload! That is why I am here on the blogspot, to refresh and say a quick hello to all flamingos and flamingo watchers.

Barbie, hope that your nerve is getting reconnected and that you will be up and around soon.

Nurse, you're an inspiration! You are really doing a fantastic job with your pre-training.

Ellie, hope you're getting Kentucky ready for us!

Pretty in Pink,

Sassy

Fartleks. Excuse Me?

2005-09-13T06:28:00.000-04:00

Speedwork is one of my least favorite forms of training, as anyone who has regularly run with me will tell you. I HATE, HATE, HATE speedwork. Which is why I love fartleks. Yes, it IS a real word - "Fartlek" is Swedish for "speed play" and consists of bursts of speed in the middle of a training run.

It's easy to incorporate fartleks into your training runs - just pick a spot in front of you and speed up until you reach it. Now, if you want to get technical, there are sites that suggest a certain speed for a certain length of time with a recovery pace of exactly so fast... you can find that sort of program here: http://www.worldar.com/endurance/fartlek.htm.

I prefer, however, just to add several bursts of speed to a moderate-length run. I aim for four or five speed sessions, and just try to make sure that I am good and winded at the end of each.

Of course, if you are a brand new runner, I'd recommend that you wait on the fartleks until you get a good, solid running base of 15-20 miles a week and until you're comfortable with those runs. Advanced training techniques won't really help you until you've mastered the basics and gotten some mileage under your belt.

Once you are comfortable with three to five miles at a stretch, pick up the pace a time or two and see how it feels. Pretty soon you'll be fartleking like a pro!

Stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

Three Miles Today

2005-09-12T11:15:00.000-04:00

Well, I just got back from a three-miler. The two boys joined me for the run and had no problems. During the last mile, we stopped every few minutes for push-ups and sit-ps. We read somewhere that Matthew McConaughey does that on his runs and for my crew, if it's good enough for Matthew McConaughey, it's good enough for us. (No, I haven't told them about the bongo drums...)

This is the start of a new week for me because I took the weekend off, mainly because I overtrained a bit last week. I'm still a little sore, but the run today was beautiful - hit the greenway again and ran through trees that are just starting to turn gold. I can't wait for fall!

So, the week is off to a good start. I just hope Barbie gets good news from her doctor today and is over her injury quickly - I miss my running partner!

Nurse Flamingo

Clicking for Pinks...

2005-09-11T09:36:00.000-04:00

Okay, I already posted today, but I have to post again and encourage everyone to bookmark this site and click every day. Most of us know at least one person whose life has been affected by breast cancer - many of us know multiple people.

Clicking links on a website usually results in a couple of pennies for the site designer; often the site designer will donate that money to charity. A simple click on this page helps earn money to fund mammograms for women who couldn't otherwise afford one. It costs nothing and takes so little time. http://www.thebreastcancersite.com

By the way, any money generated by clicks on our ads goes to helping pay race entry fees and attendance costs for flamingos who might need a little help. It's just our way of encouraging a healthy lifestyle and active participation in our little group. Of course, at this rate we can give each needy flamingo approximately 0.25 cents, but hey, you gotta try, right?

Stay pink, and don't forget to click!

Nurse Flamingo

Runner's World

2005-09-11T03:58:00.001-04:00

I picked up the new issue of Runner's World yesterday. It really is among my favorite magazines. They base their contentions, for the most part, on real research, and then break that down so you know how to incorporate it into your running program, should you choose to do so.

For instance, their article on the new USDA dietary guidelines contains a breakdown on how it applies to runners, including a meal plan for an average sized runner of each gender. Pretty good stuff.

The other thing I really like about this magazine is that they make a lot of their content available on the website. This means that I don't necessarily have to keep my copy of the magazine. I can go to the website, here: www.runnersworld.com and find the article, bookmark it or save it and refer to it later as needed.

This is one magazine that is definitely worth the price of a subscription, and you could spend days surfing their online content. I have to give it five pink feathers!

An update on our grounded flamingo: spent the day yesterday sitting with her because she CAN'T EVEN WALK! The lesson I'm taking from that one: don't try to run through severe pain until you go talk to your doctor. Here's a good article on running injuries: http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/6/6_1/injured-runner.shtml

Luckily, Barbie has a good doc who has her on all sorts of helpful remedies, and she'll probably follow up with him again in the morning. So, we'll see. Keep your feathers crossed for her and stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

An Injured Flamingo

2005-09-10T05:24:00.000-04:00

Barbie Flamingo and I ran three miles yesterday. We were both kind of sore - me from the prior day's "What's Around the Riverbend?" excursion, and Barbie from a painful case of sciatica. Still, we ran relatively well, or so we thought. Barbie's pain even eased off a bit, which made us feel like what we were doing was a good thing.

By the end of the run, Barbie had a sore calf and I was limping, but still, we were okay. Again, so we thought. Barbie goes to her doctor and yikes! She may have a torn sciatic nerve, but she won't know until she rests it a bit to see if it heals up quickly or not. Doc says ABSOLUTELY no running 'til the pain is gone.

So, the little flamingo has had her wings temporarily clipped. She's going to have to be a water bird for awhile. Swimming is the recommended exercise until she gets healed. Luckily, most flamingos like the water!

Luckily, also, you can keep a high degree of cardiorespiratory fitness by swimming, and you get a full-body workout to boot. And we still have three months before we officially start the marathon training schedule, so if Barbie is a good little bird I think we'll be okay.

However, my running companion is now sidelined, which makes me sad. It also makes me furious with myself that I let that girl run in that condition. What kind of nurse flamingo am I?? Drat, drat and drat again.

Anyway, unless my kidlet flamingos (they're teenagers) decide they want to do a short run today, I think I'm taking the day off. I've logged just over 12 miles this week - pretty good for a bird just getting back into it.
So, have a pink sort of day, everyone, and I'll see you on the track!

Nurse Flamingo

A Day of Change for a Flamingo

2005-09-08T09:04:00.000-04:00

Today is my last day on my current job! I have been with this institution for three years and in my current department/position for half of that time. I cannot contain my excitement at moving on and making a new start with a different company. Co-workers are telling me that they are going to miss me and are sad that I'm leaving, but I'm just ready to go!!

This change of job will affect my running because I will travel a lot in my new position. This means that I will require not only coffee in my room but also a work-out facility with a treadmill. I've never been very good at treadmill running (always afraid I will fall off, notice I'm not dubbed Graceful Flamingo). I guess I will improve with time. Hopefully there are safe places to run outside where I travel, then I will have reports about new scenery to share with all! Oh the possibilities!

As this flamingo goes on the road, I will share my adventures in running!

Wearing pink (again!),

Sassy

Running Weather

2005-09-08T07:27:00.000-04:00

I don't know what the thermometer says in your neck of the woods, but here in Knoxville our mornings are perfect right now for running. I went out yesterday into a bright, crisp morning. The temperature hovered around 60 degrees, the sun was just peeking over the horizon and the humidity was so low I couldn't even feel it. It was amazing. I felt like I could run for hours. Is there anything better than an early morning walk or run on a late summer morning?

Okay, don't answer that! I forget I'm talking to flamingo chicks here - no telling WHAT sort of answer I'll get! :) Anyway, it was a wonderful morning and I came back, showered and slept like a baby 'til it was time to get up for work. Well, except for that telemarketer calling, but that's another post.

Good night, pinks! Don't work too hard today!

Nurse Flamingo

Getting Started (an addition to earlier post)

2005-09-07T08:42:00.000-04:00

I am starting back to run after a long hiatus. So, in essence I am a new runner, again! To get myself back in gear I am following the Cool Running "From Couch Potato..." method. There is a link to the Cool Running website on our blog if anyone is interested. It is basically the same thing that Nurse Flamingo is saying and seemed to work very well for me last night. I will keep you all posted as to how it goes. If anyone out there wants to get out and move, come shake your tail feathers with us!

Wearing pink,

Sassy Flamingo

How to Get Started (If you're NOT a runner)

2005-09-07T07:30:00.000-04:00

Well, Good Morning and I just want to say Hello to any of my Knoxville Nurse friends who stop by! Welcome to our corner of the web!

This post is going to address how to start running if you aren't already a runner. The flamingos will be using the Galloway method, found here: http://www.jeffgalloway.com/ where you run for approximately eight minutes followed by a walk break of approximately two minutes.

"I can't run for eight minutes!" Well, maybe you can't run for eight minutes right now, but I'll bet you can run for one minute. So, start like that. Run (a nice, slow jog) for a minute, then walk for a minute. Alternate for twenty minutes. Try to work up to thirty minutes by the end of the week.

Next week, try running for two minutes. Again, start with twenty minutes and work your way up to thirty. By week five or six, you should be able to run for almost five minutes at a time. At that point, increase your walk break to two minutes as you move up to six minutes of running.

From that point, you are a hop, skip and a jump away from our goal of eight minutes of running. You'll easily be able to start serious training by the end of November, if you go ahead and get started now. The key is to work up gradually. If you start now, I'll guarantee that in a few weeks you'll be able to run more than you ever imagined.

I'll look for you on the running track!

Stay pink!
Nurse Flamingo

We're Going to be Parents!

2005-09-07T07:27:00.000-04:00

Letter to the Louisville Zoo:

Hi, I am a member of a Marathon group called "The Flamingos" we are training for the Kentucky Derby marathon. We would like to Adopt the Flamingo's if they are available or make a donation and they will be our "charity". for the 2006 race. Our participants come from all over the country

Let me know

Sincerely
Ellie

Reply:

Thank you for considering the Louisville Zoo as your "charity" for the upcoming Derby marathon. That race is a particular favorite of mine since I live directly on the route. Every year I come out to watch and show support for the incredible effort everyone puts forth.

The Chilean Flamingo's are certainly available for adoption either individually or as a flock. The beginning level is $35 which gives the "adoptive parents" a certificate, an informational card with a picture of their new "family member" and their name on our website for a year, higher levels of support include small, medium or large plush animals (species specific when available) and a variety of other premiums. The form is available on our website: http://www.louisvillezoo.org/. We can complete the adoption by phone or mail, whichever is more convenient for you.

We appreciate whatever amount of support you might choose. If you have any questions or special needs, please call me at 502-238-5389. Thanks again for your interest.

"When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.".............John Muir

Christine Christine Van Ormer, Development Louisville Zoological Garden 1100 Trevilian Way Louisville, Kentucky 40233 502-238-5389 fax: 502-459-2196 christine.vanormer@loukymetro.org “To Better the Bond Between People and the Planet” www.louisvillezoo.org

Day Dreaming

2005-09-06T13:38:00.000-04:00

I have just come back from lunch where I was able to escape from my no-window, computer glare world for a brief amount of time. As I sit at my desk my mind is wondering to tonight when I will be able to strap on my running shoes, load the jog stroller, and be outside in motion!

I see myself working around the track while my son gazes from his stroller at the new sights around him. His little fist will be clinched but his eyes and mind will be wide open.

I will hold onto this feeling of freedom and exhilaration as I trod through the rest of my day. Maybe I can find a good song on the radio to keep the mood light and happy like my planned evening!

Until then,

Katherine aka Sassy Flamingo

A Real Runner?

2005-09-06T07:35:00.000-04:00

"I felt like a fraud, so I learned to fly an airplane. At fifty thousand feet, I thought, 'A fraud is flying an airplane.' So, I crossed the Atlantic in a rowboat. I thought, 'A fraud has crossed the Atlantic.' So, I took a space shot to the moon. On the way home I thought, 'A fraud has circled the moon!' Then, I took a full page ad in the newspaper and I confessed to the world that I was fraud. I read the ad and I thought, 'A fraud is pretending to be an honest person.' "
Jules Feiffer (in a political cartoon)

The point of that quote? You are what you do. Mr. Feiffer's cartoon character wasn't a fraud at all - he was a pilot, an adventurer, an astronaut and a pretty honest guy. (Mr. Feiffer himself is a pretty honest guy - if you don't believe me, look up his quote on liking women, here: http://www.planetoid.org/about/quotes.shtml)

What does that have to do with running? It's simple - if you run, you are a runner. Okay, maybe you aren't in the same class as Jeff Galloway or Micheal Johnson, but you're still a runner. If you run a marathon, you are a marathoner. You do the time, you get the title - it's that simple. You don't have to be a world-class competitor to be a runner - all you have to do is run.

So, this week, I challenge all of us to earn our titles. Get out there and pound some pavement! Run, flamingos, run!

Stay pink!
Nurse Flamingo

Shoes II

2005-09-05T16:49:00.000-04:00

We have a store in Louisville that custom makes running shoes, cost is pretty similar to off the rack. The sales people watch you walk, run and make foot prints and customize your shoe to your walking and running style. As you are looking -- look for a store similar to that in your area I'll get the info on our store and pass it along in case it is a chain. Not as sore as I thought I would be, I am going to run this afternoon sincerely Ellie Mae Flamingo

New Shoes?

2005-09-05T03:03:00.000-04:00

I have to go shopping for a new pair of running shoes one of these days. I've been putting it off because it can be such a pain. My sister flamingos won't let me buy frivolous, cute shoes. Oh, no - they have to be SERIOUS running shoes. I have to confess that three or four miles into the run I'm thanking heaven I didn't choose the cute shoes!

So, how do you go about buying running shoes, anyway? Well, Runner's World has a great shoe-finder available at http://www.runnersworld.com/. If you've never bought running shoes before, the site is worth a visit. You can analyze your needs and select several models that might suit you. Next, having done a little research, you can head over to your local running store and try on the shoes.

Let me just warn you that the guy at the local Foot Locker who tells you to buy Nike because a lot of people do is NOT your best resource. Nike may make a shoe that suits you, and they may not. The only way to know is to try them on. A good running store will be staffed by real runners who know a little something about biomechanics. If you're not lucky enough to have one nearby, you'll have to do a bit more research on your own and then keep trying out shoes.

Don't be shy about running around in the store with the shoes on your feet. Do this until you find a pair that feels right. Sometimes, I jog around shoe stores for an hour or more, trying different shoes. Another caveat is to check the return policy. I've had shoes that felt fine in the store but caused severe pain over the course of several miles on the trail. You don't want to be stuck with a shoe you can't use.

Expect to pay $80.00 - $150.00 for this season's runners. Running isn't an expensive hobby but you can't do it without your feet, so those shoes are an investment. Sometimes you can save a bit by buying last year's models; I generally ask the store staff when something will be on sale or if they have any close-outs. Hey, they work at a shoe store - they know from budgets!

Here are a few more good resources:
http://www.coolrunning.com
http://www.roadrunnersports.com/
http://www.runnersweb.com/running/rw_shoes.html

Happy shopping and stay pink!

Nurse flamingo

Letter from a Flamingo

2005-09-04T20:17:00.000-04:00

Lordy Lordy I'm nearly 40, ---- I've agreed to run simply for fun ----- With new shorts & gear-- not matching was my only fear. Picked a perfect spot to start my trot, mapped and planned and started like a shot. Out I ran with the spring of a buck, after two miles I thought what the Fu%& I can run no more/ I'm sweating like a WH#@ I just want to go home and be left alone. Today I completed 2 miles, part walking and part jogging and part walking, did I mention I walked. I ate garbage today, comfort food for a bad horse and barn day. Not a good excuse I know, however I did start my running and I did drink a bottle of water. Sincerely Ellie Mae Flamingo Louisville, Kentucky

Letter from a Flamingo

2005-09-03T21:20:00.000-04:00

Good evening from Louisville Kentucky and Ellie Mae Flamingo. I am new to the group, new to training for a run and looking forward to "the" experience. It was my suggestion to try the Kentucky Derby Marathon. I hope that everyone will consider, "The Run for the Roses" Louisville has lots to offer you and your family. Horses will be on the track practicing, churchhill downs will be holding races, Ceasar's Gambling boat is just across the river, the Louisville Slugger Museum, you can have your own bat made with your name on it, Louisville Science Center, Louisville Zoo, over 500 different Bourbons are made here and many distilleries are open for tours (Maker's Mark, Wild Turkey, Jim Beam, Buffalo Trace, etc.) The Derby Museum, Speed museum (modern art) are also available. I started my training tonight with a 1 hour vigorous trail ride on horse back with 3 children and my Jack Russell named "Jack". I ate well today, nothing bad. Tomorrow starts the running, on my daughter's track at her school and another vigorous trail ride. More to come ...............Ellie Mae Flamingo

Excuses to Avoid Running

2005-09-03T07:41:00.000-04:00

I'm sore. I'm tired. It's raining. It's sleeting. I ran my butt off at work already, and how can you run without a butt? (Hah - I wish THAT one were true!) The dog ate my shoes. The list is endless and I find that if I let myself start down that slippery slope, I'll continue right on along until I'm running maybe once a week.

Fact is, you can't run any kind of road race on that kind of training if you're over the age of, say, eighteen. And I am considerably older than eighteen, so you see my dilemma. I have to train at least four days a week in order to be able to do any kind of racing. It stinks, but there you have it.

So, how do I stick with it? Not very well, to be honest. I'm a person who, unfortunately, needs external motivation to keep going. In short, I need a work-out buddy. That's where all you flamingos come in.

That's where this blog comes in. It's hard to come in here and post that I haven't trained today, so I try very hard not to let that happen. A scheduled day off is fine, but a lazy, whiny, excuse-making day is no good. This blog is my own workout log. I hope some of my fellow flamingos will start using it as their work-out logs, as well. We can all motivate one another.

Anyway, this morning I am very tired, so I am going to try to get up and run this afternoon. I haven't had a lot of luck doing that lately, but I'm going to try again. My goal is two miles - just enough to say I ran. I'll post in the morning and let you know if I made it. In the meantime, have a great Saturday and stay pink!

The Tired Nurse Flamingo

Gasp. Cough, cough! Gasp!

2005-09-01T09:46:00.000-04:00

Oh. My. That was hard. I hurt and I am way, way out of shape. I did finish my three miles this morning, but I have to confess that I walked the last half-mile. I was gasping like a beached whale, too. Wow.

I ran on the treadmill today, and I set the initial incline at 5%. That was mistake number one, but I felt okay after the first mile and I was really getting a kick out of seeing "700 calories per hour" on the burn display. So, for mile two, I dropped the incline to 3.5% and kicked up the speed a notch (to 5.5 miles per hour). The second mile was tough and I seriously considered quitting at the end of it.

Then I remembered that I had set a goal and I was determined to meet it, so I dropped the incline to 1% and kicked the speed up to 6 miles an hour. Mistake number three. If I'd left well enough alone, I probably could have run the entire three miles, but the extra speed had my side aching and my heart rate through the stratosphere by the time I'd done half a mile of it. So, after two and half miles, I stopped the treadmill, went outside to the jogging trail and walked half a mile to make up my goal.

Still, it was a good run. My lungs are still burning a bit and my legs are definitely aching, and I'll probably be too sore to walk before my shift is over tonight, but it was a good run. Before I started hanging out with those Marine types who shall remain nameless, I never would have considered this a good run. I've been corrupted, though, and now I define a good run by how ill I feel afterward! All in all I feel pretty good about today.

For those folks who will be joining us in formal marathon training, the goal for right now is 3-5 miles a day, in some combination of walking and running. Try for at least four runs a week. We'll build on that for the next couple of months and in November we'll start a scheduled program. Barbie has the details and she'll be posting them here soon. I'll also leave it to her to describe Jeff Galloway's technique, which we are planning to use during the actual race.

I've reset the blog to accept comments from anyone, so feel free to share your thoughts, goals and training logs with all of us. My goal for tomorrow is three miles, again, and I'll try to find time to let you know how that goes. 'Til next time,

Stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

Training Run

2005-09-01T03:41:00.000-04:00

My training run this morning is three miles. I'm not going to worry about time, I'm just going to go out and cover three miles, no matter how long it takes me. Now that I've written it down, I'm committed and I have to do it.

As with anything, the hardest part of training for a marathon is creating a consistent training habit. For me, that's especially difficult because I put in long (12-hour) night shifts at work. When I get home, the last thing I want to do is go run. But I have done so successfully in the past, and I need to do so again. I just have to make it a habit.

Barbie and I work opposite hours, so on most days it's impossible for us to meet for training. The other flamingos all reside in other states, so that makes for a rough commute! No, the bulk of each flamingo's training is individually done, and we just meet periodically for group runs.

In the early flamingo days, many of us lived within ten miles of each other, and it was possible to get together three and four times a week to run. This made it very easy to stay committed, because those crazy flamingos would come bang on your door if you didn't show up for the morning run. This would tick off your spouse, wake your kids and upset the neighbors, so you tended to stay on the straight and narrow.

We need to come up with the virtual equivalent of banging on one another's doors. If anybody has any suggestions, I'm game, because I can use all the help I can get!

Stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

How Barbie Got Her Name....

2005-08-31T06:15:00.000-04:00

Well, since Barbie Flamingo isn't more forthcoming, I'll tell you the story of how she got her name.

Once upon a time, Barbie Flamingo was a little blonde chick with a heart-shaped face and dimples. She was cute but smart, too. She had a killer sense of style - she could put together a chic, good-looking outfit out of burlap sacks and baling twine and still have time to serve high tea in the British style, with cute little finger sandwiches and fine china. She was the Martha Stewart of flamingo-dom, without the superior attitude and unfortunate jail time! It was truly disgusting and often required large doses of Dramamine to digest. :)

One day, the cute little flamingo chick came driving up in a little red sports car, her perfectly coifed hair flying in the breeze, looking like, well, Barbie! That was all she wrote. You know the old joke about Barbie having everything, even a cute red car? Well, if the shoe fits, the flamingo needs to wear it (assuming it is an appropriately stylish dressy shoe OR a good running shoe) and so Barbie Flamingo was born.

Fast forward a few years and Barbie still has the cute blonde looks and killer sense of style, but the red sports car has gone on to that great roadway in the sky. However, the name, once given, can't be revoked and she remains Barbie Flamingo.

Unlike the doll, though, our Barbie doesn't have to buy her friends. Our Barbie is creative and fun-loving and loyal almost to a fault. Our Barbie has made friends all over the country and here's hoping that some of her many friends will decide to join us in our journey towards the marathon.

There are flamingos all over the United States. Let this website serve as the clarion call, oh flamingos... time to flock together once again. The pink champagne is chilling - who's bringing the strawberries?

Stay pink!

Nurse Flamingo

Newbie Aches and Pains All Over Again....

2005-08-30T11:13:00.000-04:00

Every time I get into shape I promise myself that I won't get out of shape again, and every time life interferes with my training for one reason or another (mainly because I let it) and then I'm back at square one. And it HURTS to get back into shape!

Oh, I tell myself it's a good ache (and it is) but nonetheless, it's an ache and you'd think it would be enough of a deterrent to keep me on the straight and narrow. Well, it isn't, but I am groaning and complaining this morning!

However, it feels so good to get back into shape! It is absolutely worth a few days of soreness. It feels so good to be active and strong and to know that I can run ten miles without a second thought because ten miles is just a long training run. That's the feeling I want back. Fitting into my skinny clothes is a fringe benefit that I won't turn my nose up at, but the real prize is that self-confidence that comes with being really fit. If you've never experienced it before, I challenge you to try it. There's nothing like it!

There are dozens of activities out there for you to try. If running isn't your thing, how about hiking? Bicycling? Dancing? Swimming? Kayaking? The list is limited only by your imagination.

As for me, I'm going to take my aching self up to the shower, because I've earned it. And that, my friends, is a great way to start the day!

Stay pink!

Terri
aka Nurse Flamingo :)

Greetings from Barbie Flamingo

2005-08-29T19:14:00.000-04:00

OK, I didn't name myself, but I'll take the compliment. They are so few and far between these days. I am ready to be motivated by a flock of flamingos. Two years ago I started to train for the Marine Corps Marathon. I had a great group of runners to train with and it was fun. I even got a coveted spot in the MCM. Then about two month into training I got plantar faciaitis which put me out of commission. Well I got my spot in the MCM suspended for a year but I couldn't go for one thing and another. Mainly because I didn't ever train. Well, a fellow Flamingo and I got motivated this summer and we've started to train in general. True to form she cooked up this plan to run another marathon. I say another marathon because we trained and ran one in 1996 (we were just children then!)

So here we are on the road again. I hope others can join us!

Marathon Girrrls

2005-08-29T05:43:00.000-04:00

Some time ago, we belonged to a running group called the Pink Flamingos. We were fun, we were fit, we were flamboyant (in full make-up and feather boas) and we could run the legs off of you.

Our favorite sports drink was champagne, preferably with strawberries. You might think that champagne would be a hindrance to a runner, but, dear friend, you'd be wrong about that. Just ask the Hash House Harriers if you don't believe me (although their beverage of choice is beer, which would never do for a flamingo). No, a small amount of champagne is great runner's fuel - add strawberries and watch out, Gatorade! But I digress....

Anyway, a few years have passed since then. We've had children (and had children grow up and leave the nest) and aged, ahem, seasoned a bit. I still can't put on false eyelashes and still have no sense of style, while my sister flamingos and I have moved on to bigger and better things. Unfortunately, for me anyway, that also includes bigger and better clothes.

So, in the interest of fun, fitness and friendship, we are reanimating the flamingos for a marathon in the spring. This blog will detail our highs and lows, our training runs, our emotions and our aches and pains. If we get really brave, we may even post pictures!

I invite you to join us in fun by reading this blog, which will be updated by at least one flamingo on a weekly basis. I further invite you to join us in fitness by finding your own challenge, wherever you are. Our challenge is a marathon - your challenge might be a cycling race, or a 5K footrace, or the Ironman Triathlon. Finally, I invite you to join us in friendship by posting your challenge and updates on your training in our comments section. Release your inner flamingo!

Stay Pink!

Terri