Please donate to the Wounded Warrior Project.  Click here

 Holy Michael Phelps!!!!  I had a choice between running on a treadmill and swimming, I chose swimming.  Wow, what a good workout.  Not only was I sucking wind like I just got sucker punched in the gut, by my shoulder and back muscles were worked in a new way, and were tired and sore by the end of the swim.  In the end, I was able to swim 15 laps (up and back 15 times in 15 minutes).  I found it to be much better than running on a treadmill.  Not only did time go by faster, but I found it to be a better cardio, and worked muscles harder in the process.  My only compliant would be the gallon of water that continued to leak out of my right ear for the rest of the day.

Also, Yesterday was Bennet's birthday!  I can't believe my baby is 4 years old.  Bennet has been waiting for his birthday since Nolan had his birthday on 10/15.  Between Oct and Dec, Bennet would often remind Terri and I that we have not wished him happy birthday (even though it was not his b-day).  And when we would say happy birthday out of the blue, he would get the biggest smile on his face and say thank you.  So adorable!  In the end, he scored pretty good in the gift department.  With his birthday so close to Christmas, Terri and I made sure he had enough gifts.  I would say, mission accomplished.

(Ben)
Brrrrrrrrrrr.    Since snowing one week ago, the weather here has been unbelievably cold.  The past few days, the temperature has topped out at about 18 degrees.  It is too cold to be outside, and all the streets have inches of ice on them.  As a result, I have moved all my workouts inside.  The past few workouts I have done circuit training exercises, where I alternate between weights and two minutes of cardio (jumping rope, plyometric boxes, etc.).  I also tried to run on a treadmill yesterday, but only made it 1/2 mile before boredom got the best of me.  I have never been a fan of treadmills, but I will either have to man up and deal with it, or start swimming laps in the pool........ I might opt for lap swimming.
On the family front, we are still dealing with sickness in the Studley house.  I think it all started on 12/17 when Nolan got a fever for a few days.  After that, on 12/19, Bennet vomited and caught what had been spreading around at daycare.  on the 22nd, it was Jake's turn (throwing up and fever).  When ever Jake gets sick, his platelets drop due to his ITP, which happened on Christmas Eve.  The medicine he is on when this happens is not carried by hospitals around this area, so Jake and I made it to Omaha on Christmas Eve to get his medicine, and made it back that night.  Also, on Christmas Eve, Terri was not feeling well.  Which brings us to today when I was woke up by Nolan at 5:30 saying he just threw up.  I don't think we have ever had so much sickness in such as short period of time.  Good thing we are on vacation, this would have been hard to handle with work priorities.  Hopefully this will be the end of it and we can enjoy the rest of the vacation (and rest of the school year) with no major illnesses.

On a happy note, Christmas was a success.  Santa came, presents were left, toys were received, and fun was had.

On a business note, I set a goal of raising $1,000 for Wounded Warrior Project when I decided to participate in the Tough Mudder.  So far, I am about half way there.  Any donation would be appreciated.  To donate, here is the link:  https://register.toughmudder.com/fundraising/donate.aspx?event=13403&fundraiser=r7473298  Thanks for all donations.

Holy snow drift!  Good thing today was a snow day because I had a ton of snow to shovel.  This past Spring, we added a 45' by 12' patio in our backyard for a hot tub, which was our 10 year anniversary present to each other.  So this is my first winter of having the additional concrete to scoop, and let me tell you, it was horrible.  The snow drifts in the backyard that I had to dig through to get to the hot tub were at least 4 foot high.  In the back, I scooped a 4' wide by 45' section.  That is in addition to the front where I had to dig out my driveway, sidewalk, and end of the driveway after the street plow came through.  In the end, I have a sore shoulder and very sore back.  A snow blower might be in the works for next year.
I had plans of bringing all the kids to the Y once we were able to get out, but after all the digging, I thought it was a good enough workout and called it a day.  I also brought the kids sledding, but my energy tank was on zero, so while they were sledding, I stayed in the van with Bennet.  I usually hit the slops with the kids because it is a good cardio, but I did not have it in me today.  

Here is a picture from the deck off the side of my house.

Notice how high the snow drifts are.  I had to dig out all around the tub so I could access the clips for cover.

Here is my driveway.  It is not long, but the snow sure got heavy towards the end.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!! Hastings is in a blizzard warning and it took the kids all of two seconds to get out in the snow and play. The above picture is Jake making a lovely snow angel.
Today is the day that I normally go to Butts and Guts class but considering the weather and the roads we figured a early workout would be better... so Ben and I decided to get a workout in before it got to dark and the roads got worse. We went to the YMCA and did the "Maybe Mudder" Tough Mudder boot camp training workout. The workout consists of 4 circuits,  each10 minutes long. So, when all said and done we fit in a decent 40 minute workout. The circuits consisted of basically 2 min. cardio and 1 min. obstacle training. I have to tell you though that 2 min. seems like a life time when it comes to jumping rope or doing high knees, so toward the end there Ben and I sort of pussed out and did 1 minute instead of the 2 minutes like it said to do. All I know is that we got a work out in on a blizzard of a day (which is probably a good thing considering Ben came home with office party treats).
I will most likely skip yoga in the morning as well due to the fact that our streets will not have been cleaned yet and my van will not make it very far on snow packed, unscooped streets...so I will be doing yoga from home via Jillian Michaels video.

Please donate to the Wounded Warrior Project.  Click here

 (Terri)
It's been a while since the last time I have posted anything. I have been going to my regular classes. Boot Camp on Mondays, Yoga on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Butts and Guts on Wednesdays. Fridays I sometimes take off but I will usually lift weights and or run on the weekends. However, I haven't been running due to my shin splints. I was waiting until I was able to get new shoes before I ran again.
Well, that day finally came!! I went to the Lincoln Running store and I got fitted to a pair of new running shoes. This was my first time ever picking out a pair of shoes not based on looks! The clerk watched me walk as I informed her of my problems. She immediately could see what I was talking about and had me try on a bunch of different shoes and walk around in them. After trying on numerous pairs I wound up buying the first pair that I tried on. I got Brooks Ravenna's. They are a lovely sea foam green (not my first choice of color but again not basing my decision on looks).
I ran in them the next day. Now, remind you that I ran one mile in my old shoes and got major shin splints. So, I told myself that I would take it easy and run a half mile to start off in, because as you runners know that when you get a pair of new shoes to correct a problem they can sometimes hurt other parts of your body due to the body not being used to being in the new position that the shoe is now putting you in...So...I wound up running 3/4 mile because I didn't want to push a full mile just yet but I also didn't want to regress to a half mile. The shoes worked like a charm and no shin splints what so ever!! The next day after my first run in my shoes I ran a mile and a half and no shin splints!! However, my legs could tell I ran further than I normally do. I have also been using my foam roller and I recommend one to anyone that runs period!! I love mine and it has helped me with my shins as well. I am going to set a new running schedule to Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. We'll see how that treats me and hopefully that will be enough days to help boost me into further miles to get where I need to be in time for the Tough Mudder.

In the past week I have run 15 miles (about 116 minutes of running), and have lifted weights on 3 days, and played old man ball on another day, so I am definitely putting in more time working out.  I would have to say, I feel my appetite has grown as my workouts have increased.  I am finding myself snacking on a bowl of cereal most nights.  Also, I am sicking to my goal of cutting back on pop.  The only pops I have had in the past 10 days is when I have eaten out.  I have cut out all other times that I have enjoyed a 44 ounce of liquid gold.  I did think I would lose some weight cutting that out, but I have not.  I think I will need to cut out the other form of liquid love (beer) to drop some lbs.  That will come after the new year. 

Here are some pictures of my new shoes, and my new watch.  My shoes are Nike Zoom Vomero.  My watch is an Ironman watch which lets me take my splits while I am running longer distances.  It also has other functions which I have not figured out yet.

(Ben)
I started this morning having a conversation with Terri about working out so hard to the point of throwing up, and I have never gotten to the point of puking during or following a workout.  I came closer than ever during my workout today.  For my workout, I ran from my house, around the high school to the Y (about 2.5 miles), lifted biceps and triceps, then ran home (about 1.5 miles).  I have done this workout before, but this today I wore a watch and timed myself.  Having a watch, and checking it at each mile interval, made me keep aware of my pace, and I found out I have been dogging it during my runs.  Today, I tried to keep a nice, quick pace, and it about killed me.  There was about a 20 second period where I thought I was going to vomit.  But luckily I did not, and I am still able to claim that I have never blew chunks during or following a workout.  By the way, I ran my 4 miles in 30 minutes 45 seconds.
I am remaining strong in my quest to stop drinking Diet Coke.  I have only had 2 Diet Cokes, both were when I ate out at a restaurant.  I have been able to cut out all pops when I drive between schools and during my time at the office during working hours.  I learned a new tactic today.  I learned Kirstie Alley attributed many of her lbs to grape pop.  Whenever I am having a craving, I will be chanting "Kirstie, Kirstie, Kirstie, Kirstie" in my head (maybe out loud depending on the severity of craving) to fight it off.  Thanks Kelly!
Also, I am toying with the idea of running in the Lincoln half marathon...........   But, after today's run of only 4 miles, my legs are tired and sore and I am having a hard time wrapping my mind around an additional 9.1 miles.

(Ben)
I have made it 4 days without a pop.  I would have to say it was easier than what I would have thought.  By making a written declaration, it has made me keep my word.  I am curious to see if I will lose any weight by not drinking any more Diet Coke.  Even though there are no calories in Diet Coke, I know there is a bunch of other ingredients that are not good for me, and I have hear that quitting any type of pop will make you drop some quick weight.  I will let you know.
I did a leg workout yesterday, and I am definitely feeling the pain today.  My legs are sore and it is hard to walk up and down stairs.  Even getting off the couch is a chore.  The timing of my leg workout was not ideal, because I had a basketball game earlier today, and my legs felt tired for most of the second half.  However, I did had my family Christmas gathering this weekend.  I stayed up late last night playing poker, and had a few too many drinks, which might have also influenced my game tonight, but I feel better about myself writing off my bad game due to my leg workout, so that is what I am going to do.

I would like to take a chance to thank those who have donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.  I am half way to my goal of $1000.  If you would like to donate, click here.

I would also like to thank Blake and Cindy for hosting the 2012 Studley family Christmas, it was a good time and we enjoyed seeing everyone again.

My parents with all the grandkids.

A serious game of poker.  By the way, I shared the purse with my brother in law Carlos.

Dec. 7, 2012 (Terri)

Dec. 2nd was my last run. I ran a whopping mile and that's all it took for my shin splints to make their arrival. I started off with just running half miles figuring I was going to ease into the whole running thing since I haven't ran in years and the fact that shin splints do occur with me. So, I was feeling pretty good on those half mile runs. I wasn't dead at the end like I thought after being out of the game for so long and my shins weren't hurting so I thought I was doing pretty well. After two half mile runs I figured I was able to handle a one miler no problem and test the one mile water for a while but I was slapped hard in the face and my shin splints told me otherwise.
Now, remember my older post, about the whole reason I am doing Tough Mudder in the first place, one of the reasons was, I was ready to change my mind and face some fears and challenges and in doing so I was going to quit with the excuses. Shin splints has always been in my mind a reason that I don't run. I tell people, "I don't run because I get shin splints." "I would run and I would love to run if I didn't get shin splints." Well, Tough Mudder has really got a hold on me. I am going to have to run at this event regardless and it's now time to face the music and put this "shin splints" crap to rest once and for all.
So, for the years that I have been avoiding running and accepting shin splints has all faded away and now my mind set is... this is something that I get and I am going to have to deal with it and treat it and solve the problem so that I can run. Finally!..I will become the runner that I have had suppressed within me. (For those of you that know me you will know that the Archuletta's are known for their ability to be natural runners and can with NO training or running practice whatsoever go and run in a 5k race no problem after have eating a plate of eggs, bacon, toast and coffee and come in with a time at 21 minutes - 7-ish minute mile pace...not too shabby going into a race cold turkey without having been running in literally years!!!) I will find my inner Archuletta and unlock it as I treat and cure my shin splints.
The link below is a video that was sent to me by my brother and is about shin splints and I feel it is an AWESOME video and I highly suggest anyone with shin splints to check out this video and take notes!


Inside the Doctor's Office: Keep Shinsplints Away | Runner's World & Running Times




 Since watching this video I have bought myself a foam roller and have used it and find it helps a TON. I also know now that I get the "Exertional Compartment Syndrome" type of shin splints. Ben has also very accurately diagnosed why it is I get shin splints in the first place. Turns out I have flat feet and I never knew it!! Although, the "wet foot test" would tell me otherwise. ?? When I walk I tend to overpronate my foot a little and when that is accompanied with flat feet it's a recipe for shin splints. I need a shoe with great arch support for starters so, next weekend I am going to go down to Lincoln, Ne and hit the Lincoln Running Store and get myself some new shoes. Then hopefully I can start putting on the miles on my new shoes and leave my shin splints in the dust!!

I did it!!!! I made it one day without a Diet Coke.  However, it was not without serious temptation from an unlikely source.  Terri has not had a pop in about a week, and for some reason she chose the day that I quit to have a massive pop craving.  Over the lunch hour, she harassed me and tempted me to no end to have one.  Then later in the evening, after our shopping at Walmart, she forced me to stop so she could have a cup full of carbinated paradise.  How dare she have a drink in front of a recovering addict????  I'm just kidding.  She has done a good not drinking too much pop herself.  She is a good wife, she was just testing my will.  The weekend will be even a tougher challenge.

Tough Mudder Wounded Warrior Project Fundraiser please donate here

 (Ben)
It is no secret to people who know me that I have a Diet Coke addiction.  When I say I have an addition, I am talking about 44 ounces of pure love each time I try to calm a craving.  On average, I would say I consume about 64 ounces per day.  On this day, the 5th day of December in the year 2012, I am officially making public that I am done drinking my coveted Diet Coke.  Now, for the record, when I say that I am done, I want it to be known that if I am out at a restaurant I will order my self a Diet Coke and probably have multiple refills, but outside of that, I am done.  My problem is when I go to my office, I usually bring with me 44 ounce of love to help me get through the grind.  So from this day forward, I will document here on this blog how many Diet Cokes I have during my training for the up coming Tough Mudder event.

Regarding my training, it is progressing as planned.  I am running about 8 to 10 miles a day.  I lift weights 3 days per week.  This past Sunday, "Old Man Basketball" started.  I play in a 3 on 3 half court league.  I have been playing basketball for the past year (mostly shooting hoops by myself).  I thought I was physically ready for this first game.  However, it is a lot tougher playing an actual game than when I dink around by myself.  My legs and stomach were very sore (and still are).  But it was a good time.  By the way, please help me reach my goal by donating here

Tuesday Dec. 4, 2012 (Terri) 

I have been thinking that I am not only going to have to prepare myself physically but also mentally. So, to prepare for the obstacles and try to make myself realize there are worse things than an Artic Enema, I came up with a list of things that in my eyes are worse than doing the Tough Mudder.

In no particular order:

1.      Having my jaw bone re-built back up due to an abscessed tooth gone awry. (Sorry Angie I wish you all the best with that and I will be thinking of you as I get electrocuted)

2.      Shaving my head. (My hair grows at an unbelievably slow rate)

3.      Being trapped under the covers. (Not funny to swaddle me like a baby in blankets! I can’t breathe!-Oh good ol’ Paxton years!)

4.      Driving on the road that takes you pass Denver on the way to Central City.(It’s literally like a roller coaster)

5.      Going on a roller coaster

6.      Being gang banged (This one is for you Propp’s!)

7.      Eating bugs (I gagged a little as I typed that)

8.      Being attacked by a wild dog. (I had some run-ins as a kid)

9.      Being stuck in a crowded elevator

10.  Having mastitis (ladies you feel me on this one if you’ve ever had it!)

So, what I discover by creating a list of things that I find more unpleasant than Tough Mudder is that my original doubts I had about Tough Mudder are mild and that I have more fears than I thought! Feel free to comment and add your own things that you think would be worse than doing the Tough Mudder as well. 

Also, check out this video if you want some inspiration- don't forget to donate to the cause! 

Tough Mudder Wounded Warrior Project Fundraiser please donate here

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Tough Mudder Wounded Warrior Project Fundraiser please donate here

 Yesterday, we loaded up the family and went to Kearney, Ne for a Christmas Party hosted by the Make a Wish Foundation.  Our oldest son, Jake, has been dealing with ITP for the past 5 years, and was granted a wish this past summer.  As part of his wish, he chose to go to Hawaii (Oahu).  We spent 7 days there and had the time of our lives. 

Since joining the Make a Wish Foundation, we have been invited to many different functions.  Yesterday, they had a wonderful Christmas party.  We were able to make different crafts, a gingerbread house, and best of all Santa made a visit!  Our older two children were not as interested, but Bennet was ecstatic.  Upon seeing Santa, Bennet jumped up and down and squealed in delight.    We then had to follow Santa around for the next ten minutes, as Bennet wanted to tell Santa that he wanted Spider Man sticky hands, costume, and webs.  However, once we had the chance to sit on Santa’s lap, the excitement turned to fear (and/or shyness), and he froze and ended up not sitting on his lap or sharing what he wanted for Christmas. 

 You can tell by the picture the excitement he was feeling while we were waiting in line.  Then when it came time to sit on Santa’s lap, he started to cling to his dad and froze during crunch time. When Terri later asked Bennet if he had fun seeing Santa, Bennet responded "I got shy". 

On another note, my training is continuing.  I shot baskets yesterday, did some full court sprints, and lifted weights (legs and shoulders).  What really blew my mind with yesterday's workout was the amount of sweat I produce.  By the time I stretched at the end of the workout, sweat was dripping off my head like a leaky faucet.  Before driving home in Terri's minivan, I thought I would do her a favor and take off my shirt, so it would not drench the drivers seat. 

(Ben)
Got home from work today and ran 4 miles.  I wore a pedometer to see how many step, and it was 6,047 steps (including my warm up and cool down walk).  It is amazing how early the sun is setting.  I left for my run as quick as I could after getting home, and got back about 5:15, and about 15 minutes later, it was dark.  I am not a fan of this time of year.  I like long days and hot weather.

By the time I reached the end of my block on my run today, my Ipod battery died, so I had to run with no music..... It sucked.  I usually listen to music, and the beat helps me keep a steady pace, and my breathing seems earlier.  Without music, I found myself focusing more on my breathing, and my landing (trying not to give my knees too much of a pounding).  I realized that running is a very complicated task.  First of all, I am not a natural born runner.  It has taken a lot of miles to be able to run a decent distance.  Secondly, I am a mouth breather, and my breathing is not conducive to quality running.  Secondly, I find it very hard to swallow my saliva when running, so I am constantly spitting ever few steps.  Thirdly, I am still trying to figure out my landing so I don't hurt my knees too badly.  Put all of these strikes together, and I am sure I look like Sasquasch running through the woods.  So if any of you drive by when I am running, leave a comment and let me know how I look.

(Ben)
Two workouts today.  The toughest of the two was carrying the Christmas tree from the basement to the upstairs living room (already assembled).  For some reason, Terri convinced herself there was not room in the living room, so she set it up downstairs.  A few days later, each of our three children individually told her they did not like it downstairs because it did not feel like Christmas.  Now everything is right in our household.

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Tough Mudder Wounded Warrior Project Fundraiser please donate here

--> (Ben)
 Well, we did it!!!  Terri and I officially registered for Tough Mudder. Tough Mudder is a “hardcore 10-12 mile obstacle courses designed by British Special Forces to test your all around strength, stamina, mental grit, and camaraderie. With the most innovative courses, half a million inspiring participants, and more than $3 million raised for the Wounded Warrior Project, Tough Mudder is the premier adventure challenge series in the world”.  Tough Mudder  will take place in Avon, Colorado on June 15^th and 16^th. 

The idea to participate in this event was proposed by Terri, and once I heard about some of the obstacles involved in the race, I immediately became interested and agreed to the idea.  Once I looked into Tough Mudder a little deeper, I discovered they were a supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project, and I decided I would document my 6 months of training (and life) in an effort to raise money for a very worth cause.  I have a little brother who is in the Army currently serving his second tour in Afghanistan.  During his first tour, my brother was shot in the left leg just above his knee.  He is healed up, and able to do all required physical demands, but it was a scare none the less, and makes you appreciate all the military individuals do for our country.

With the war in Iraq and Afghanistan continuing on as long as they have, and involving the number of troop that have been deployed over the years, chances are every American has in some way known a solder involved in the wars in the Middle East, and unfortunately, many have returned home changed in one way or another.  Because of this, I decided to start a blog to document my training progress in an effort to raise donations for the Wounded Warrior Project.  This is my first undertaking in participating in an organized event while trying to raise funds for an organization, but I decided to set a fund raising goal of $1000 for the Wounded Warrior Project, to help benefit those solders returning home in need of some assistance.  This blog will document Terri’s and my training progress, and in the process, I am sure a few entertaining stories will be shared.  

 Please click here to donate!  

11/23/12 (Ben)

Ouch!!!  Training is underway.  I have logged whopping 6 miles of running in a three day period, and my knees are sore.  In the past month, I have begun to realize that I may be landing on my heel when I run, which might be causing some of my post run soreness.  I have tried to address this by changing my form, which has resulted in pain.  Once, I set out for a run attempting to land on more of my midfoot.  After running that day, I could barely put weight on my right knee for the remainder of the day.  However, my knee felt fine the next day, go figure?  The next time I hit the road, I tried to land more on the front ball of my foot, keeping my heel off the ground.  Bad idea!  I could barely walk for a week due to the excruciating pain in my calves.  Finding the right form when I run will continue to be a work in progress.  It might also be related to age, which I am slow to acknowledge.

11/27/12 (Ben)

To comment on Terri's post below, here is "her perspective" that I find amusing.  Before Terri was even able to get a workout in after committing to Tough Mudder, she first had to research, and discuss at length, the type of outfit that she needed to buy to participate in the event that is 6 1/2 month away.  Always have to be fashionable.  "His perspective" includes thinking what kind of facial hair I will sport during the event.

11/26/12 (Terri) 

Hopefully since Ben and I are both writing about our training in this blog, you will get to see a “his and her” perspective. So, with that being said here is my point of view on how this entering into the Tough Mudder and training became.

First off I never in a million years thought I would be signed up for such an event. I have a fear of heights, I am claustrophobic, I HATE the cold, I can’t do a pull up or even a “real” push-up (not a modified on the knees kind) to save my life, so why would I agree to such torture? I was a little on the fence at first even though I was the one who approached Ben with the idea of signing up for this event.

I was looking at Beaver Creek’s main web page a few months ago because I had wanted to go skiing up there. I saw that they had other events there as well, so I clicked around and saw the “Tough Mudder” event. I told Ben that he should do it because this was at a time when Ben thought he was a Navy Seal. The thought of me ever joining him never crossed my mind until just a few short weeks ago.

I have been working out religiously for the past 2 years going to classes our local YMCA offers. I just recently changed up my work out routine and began going to a class called “Boot Camp” that a friend of mine teaches. She mentioned to me that she was going to do the Tough Mudder event and said how fun it would be to get a group of us to do it. So, I went home and mentioned it to Ben and again showed him all the obstacles on the Tough Mudder web page and without hesitation Ben was in. I was interested but not fully committed just yet, that is until Ben made one comment…”Terri are you going to play it safe all your life or are you going to live a little?” He was right. I play it safe in all I do and I never go outside my comfort zone. When I thought about it I realized in all my years I have never even went off the high dive at any swimming pool I had ever been to, kid or adult!! So, with Ben’s comment fueling me that was it I was in! I looked that the obstacles again with a different point of view, a challenge, an opportunity to go outside my comfort zone. As I began looking over the Tough Mudder web page more in depth the more and more it seemed like such a great thing to be a part of. There is the “Tough Mudder Pledge” that states:

            “ -I UNDERSTAND THAT TOUGH MUDDER IS NOT A RACE BUT A CHALLENGE.

-       I PUT TEAMWORK AND CAMRADERIE BEFORE MY COURSE TIME

-       I DO NOT WHINE- KIDS WHINE

-       I HELP MY FELLOW MUDDERS COMPLETE THE COURSE

-       I OVERCOME ALL FEARS”

This pledge pretty much summed up how I felt about the event at hand. Once my fire was lit and I was ready to take on the challenge and move outside my comfort zone this pledge spoke to me.  I mean what’s life if you don’t do things that scare you a little right? I was ready to work as a team and I felt comforted by the fact that my team and I would all be in this together. I was ready to stop giving excuses and ready to walk the walk. I was ready to conquer my fears and let the training begin!!

Now with a goal and motivation behind me working out even took on a whole new meaning to me. I would work out harder and push through the pain. I would start running!! I haven’t ran in years literally years!!! I always told myself that I can’t run, I get shin splints, running just isn’t something that I am good at and so on. I had a list of reasons why running and I didn’t mesh together. I even tried to convince myself that I can’t run because I have what the doctors call a “pectus excravatum” a funnel chest where the breast bone is sunk in. I always had a hard time with figuring out how to breathe when I ran and this was excuse 101. Maybe it plays a part, maybe it is a little harder to breathe, maybe it’s not, but I do know that it’s not impossible to run with it and so the training began!!

Sat. Nov. 24, 2012 (Terri)

Today marks the day that I officially began to start training for the Tough Mudder! All my family has left from the holiday and I have had way too much sweet potato pie. I decide to go for a run, a very small run to ease into it. I really do get shin splints even though I use that as an excuse, so I am going to ease into it. I stretch and then I am out the door. I run to my children’s elementary school and once I am there I challenge myself to do the monkey bars. I climb up and think to myself how easy this was as a child I could actually swing like a monkey across these bars no problem, but all I feel is the weight of my body and the gigantic force of gravity working against me. I swing to the third bar and I drop like a heavy sack of bricks!  Attempt after attempt I am not passing that third bar so I decide to go over to the line of bars where the middle bar is the highest and the other two bars on either side are the same size. I grab onto the middle highest bar and attempt a pull-up I get my arms bent at maybe a 150 degree obtuse angle. Then I remember that in one of the Tough Mudder boot camp training circuits it mentioned that you may need to start by just hanging. So, I hang on the middle bar for a few seconds and drop. I attempt this 3-4 times and by the 4^th time I am feeling defeated and decide to run back home.  The run when all said and done was about 1/2 a mile run and by the tail end of the run I finally start to feel like I am getting into the groove of breathing. When I make it back home I don’t feel dead at all which is a surprise to me and my shins don’t hurt. I was pleasantly surprised at how good that first run went.  I told myself that if I can make it out the door that is half the battle and today I accomplished more. I am already putting those doubts and excuses behind me.

Sun. Nov. 25, 2012 (Terri)

MY ARMPITS HURT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hanging on a bar makes your armpits kill- just sayin’

Mon. Nov. 26, 2012 (Terri)

Today is the day that I normally go to “Boot Camp” that my friend Stacy teaches. However, tonight Ben has a meeting that will not allow me to attend. So, plan B…Ben and I will work out together and do the “Maybe Mudder” boot camp circuit training when his meeting is over. Ok, so plan B didn’t work out Ben’s meeting went later than expected so I decided to try the “Maybe Mudder” boot camp at home.  The “Maybe Mudder” boot camp is a 4 circuit workout with each circuit being about 10 minutes each. I had a good run at it getting through the first half of it before my kids decided it was time for me to quit. I had about a 20 minute workout and I felt like I didn’t get anything accomplished. Lesson learned that even with all the best intentions in the world working out at home is just not feasible with my kids.

Tues. Nov. 27, 2012(Terri)

I woke up at 5:30am and trekked it on down to the YMCA to go to yoga class. Today was the first day back to yoga in a week. I didn’t go last Thursday due to the holiday so I expect that tomorrow I maybe a tad sore in spots. After a weekend and especially after a long weekend due to Thanksgiving the first day back to yoga is always the hardest. Everything is stiffer and I have less balance. To get stronger for the Tough Mudder I am planning on working out later tonight maybe do some cardio and weights. Usually, on Tuesdays and Thursdays I would just go to yoga and that would be it for my exercise for the day but, to gear up for Tough Mudder I have to pick it up a notch. 

Ran a half mile again, this time with no stopping for monkey bars! At the end I was a little more tired than I was last time but I didn’t feel dead so that is a good thing. Also, no pain in my shins!! Whoop! Whoop!

Workout number 3 for the day…lifted upper body at the YMCA with Ben. The pull-up machine with the cheat bar is amazing!

Wed. Nov. 28, 2012 (Terri)

My arms are a little sore today. Tonight is “Butts and Guts” night! Gotta love that class, makes your ass feel like it has a charlie horse. This class targets your butt and gut obviously. My friend Stacy Shaw teaches this class as well as the boot camp class and the yoga classes I attend. She is a great teacher and somehow makes you want that charlie horse in your ass.