tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79102982069094205772024-03-15T01:36:47.375-07:00my green fat pantsAlexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-67464407282588004912014-09-01T15:50:00.001-07:002014-09-01T15:50:58.163-07:00Back at it.Wow- so time flies when .... well, you know.<br />
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It is time to get back at it and get serious about being healthy and fit. After being out of running for the past year, I have also been out of most all exercise, eating to manage pain and... well, everything. It is like I just threw my arms in the air and said 'why bother' when I couldn't run. That is SO not ok, but it is what I did. I am probably normal here, but not healthy.<br />
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The last while I have been in pain. A LOT of pain. My joints all hurt and just not feeling well. I decided that I had had enough and I am again working to eliminate all grains from my diet. This is going to require some planning on my part with regard to lunches and snacks. Mostly because if I don't, then I will either grab easy (read not healthy) or just not eat (also not healthy). Neither of those will get me to my goal. <br />
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Yesterday I pre-cooked items for lunches for this week. I also cut up a bunch of veggies and now just need to make up some hummus to go with them for snacks. <br />
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Today, I purchased some chicken (thighs on sale for 99 cents per lb) and baked it off. It is in the refrigerator now cooling so I can pull it off the bones and freeze to grab and go later. For now, the food is looking like I am on the right track for daytime meals.<br />
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Moving, is going to come later. Not today. Today has been about getting things done and powering through. Today I HURT. I mean really, really hurt. I don't know why so badly today, but I do. Not just my joints, but everything. I feel all swollen and stiff and achy. Nothing doesn't hurt except my eyelids. The good news? It reinforces that I am making the right changes and not a minute too soon.<br />
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Wishing you health, happiness and a great nights sleep :)<br />
Alex Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-50155630740899766872013-04-15T15:12:00.003-07:002013-04-15T15:21:37.636-07:00My heart is breaking.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As I read the news feeds and see the pictures my heart is breaking. My beloved running community has been attacked and will never be the same. I have met the most amazing people in the last couple of years as I have come to know this group of people and consider them my safe place. I will keep them all in my thoughts and prayers. I am honored to be a part of the group that ran toward the danger in Boston to help others. Thank you for continuing to be amazing in the middle of this tragedy.Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-18293761899312527562013-02-13T15:13:00.000-08:002013-04-15T15:14:08.293-07:00Spartan Season<div style="text-align: center;">
It is here. The Spartan Race Season and my quest for the 2013 tri-fecta! </div>
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Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-32200221568763610032012-08-06T18:37:00.000-07:002012-08-06T18:37:51.650-07:00Proud Mom Moment<h6>
<span class="ecxmessagebody"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal;">After I participated in the AZ Super, I was watching
some you tube video from the race. My 18-year-old son
was watching over my shoulder and we started talking about the races and course. This evolved to discussing doing one together. He got excited about it and I signed
us up for the PNW Sprint right away!</span></span></h6>
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<span class="ecxmessagebody"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></h6>
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<span class="ecxmessagebody"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal;">I have to share how PROUD this kid made me. It is
not that he finished the race although he did amazing. It is HOW he did it. As
300 of us took off for the course from the 'gate', there was a gentleman next
to us I had met briefly that morning. He was meant to do the Hurricane Heat, but twisted
his ankle walking from the parking lot. He had taped up and was going to DO the
race. When we hit the first steep hill, he had to walk and it got painful. My son,
at 18, told his buddy (who he had talked smack with for weeks AND during the 7
hour car ride from Boise, ID to Washington) to go ahead, and he walked with
this man. They talked and I know this man shared some great life insight, etc.
with my boy. My son checked on him, encouraged him and NEVER got impatient or
in a hurry. Not even as the next heat caught up to us. He never, EVER, left him behind. When the man
decided, he had to bow out, my son stayed with him until the medic quad got
there, loaded him, and took him down. (this was about 1/2 way through) he then
kicked it in high gear and finished only 5 minutes behind the buddy that he
sent ahead at the beginning. As soon as he finished the race, he went to find
Dave (the man he walked with), to check on him and make certain he was ok. Daniel
was in such a hurry that he missed getting his finishers shirt. </span></span></h6>
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<span class="ecxmessagebody"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal;">Daniel mentioned to me several times that Dave had
been headed back up to finish when he saw him afterward. He also told me what a great person Dave
is. Not even once, has he said anything
about wondering what his finish time would have or could have been. There has been absolutely no mention of
disappointment or the race being different from planned. </span></span></h6>
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<span class="ecxmessagebody"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal;">This Spartan Mom has never ever been prouder of her
Spartan Son than she was during the PNW Sprint in Washougal, WA.</span></span></h6>
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<span class="ecxmessagebody"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal;"> </span></span>Also - this is what Dave (the wounded Spartan) posted on the PNW Street Team where I had been bragging Daniel up<br /><br /><a class="ecxactorName" href="https://www.facebook.com/d.e.trujillo101" target="_blank">Trujillo David E</a> <span class="ecxcommentBody">OK
so let me set the record straight here there would have been NO WAY i
could have done this without your son. I made it a little more than half
way with his help then i told him i needed a medic and he should go he
didn't leave till i got a medic to help me out. I got to the tent the
medics were awesome cut off my shoelaces my sock and my nasty Ace
bandage, little ice, little Motrin, and a lot of wrapping and one taped
on shoe later a lift back up to where i ended up. Your son was just
finishing his heat up and i saw him on my way back up the hill he told
me i was nuts:) i must admit though i didn't climb that hill again but
did do burpees. Thanks for the medic who drove me back up there so i
could complete the race. wish i had my tracking tag that they cut off my
foot in the medic tent. BUT I DID FINISH they even have a pic of me
limping over the fire it was on the wall at the after party. PS after
the Doc visit today and X-Rays i have a cracked Talus bone small ankle
fracture wish i could scan the xray but my pic will have to do as proof
hahahahaha ill post it shortly hard getting around at the moment :)
AROOO my Spartan Brother who helped me through you wont be forgotten and
your story will be told my friend. Next year we run it together start
to finish</span></h6>
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<span class="ecxmessagebody"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal;"> A few more pics of my amazing son from the race.</span></span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Only Spartan Women give birth to Spartan Men.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Aroo, Aroo, AROO!</b></span></div>Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-90012794560297671712012-06-21T17:52:00.000-07:002012-06-21T17:53:37.495-07:00Spartan Race PNW SprintI have delayed writing about this last weekend's Spartan Race because I am not quite certain what to share. This race, for me, was much harder than AZ. I am certain that all the hills had something to do with it. Running the Hurricane Heat at 5:30 am prior to my race time I KNOW had something to do with it. This bad boy <i><b>definately</b></i> had something to do with it :<br />
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That is a barb wire crawl, uphill, 100 yards. It was so steap that the placed ropes on the top 1/4 of it because otherwise no one could have gotten up. Oh, and guess what? I did that thing TWICE. Yep- 2 times. Why you ask? Because I am crazy.... CRAZY AWESOME!!! <br />
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Seriously though, it is because I participated in the Hurricane Heat. This was the most fun ever. If you get the opportunity, I would strongly suggest doing it. I had a blast and met some fabulous people. Here is our team afterward.<br />
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Now, to the race itself. We were in the 10:30 heat. I have to say that as each heat was going off and the announcer, Billy, was asking who it was their first time for a Spartan Race, I couldn't believe how many fell in that group. It was so exciting to see all these new Spartans!!!<br />
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This course, although shorter than Arizona, was certainly just as hard or harder because of the terrain. Just like Arizona, I failed the rope climb, spear throw and traverse wall all in a row - so 90 burpees. I am certain they put those 3 together intentionally, just for people like me, lol! <br />
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This video on you tube is a pretty good one of the course. Many of these obstacles I did multiple times because of being part of the Hurricane Heat.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/2sTClByryCc" width="560"></iframe>
I am also very, VERY proud of my Spartan Son. He ran with me in the 10:30 and has an amazing story. That is for another day though.
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<i><b>Only Spartan Women give birth to Spartan Men
</b></i></div>Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-45463286905465371602012-06-13T11:56:00.001-07:002012-06-13T12:16:19.619-07:00Update on Paleo/Primal eatingIt has been a couple of weeks since I changed my dietary habits and I want to share an update, observations, etc.<br />
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This has been a lot easier than I thought it would be. I am guessing it is because I am doing it as a long term dietary change approach rather than the more negative 'diet' idea. Also, I am not trying to find substitutes for things. Some things are just 'out' and no longer foods I eat. I am not using sugar substitutes and trying to bake bread or cakes with acceptable substances. I just plain don't eat them anymore. Period. I seem to do better with an all or nothing approach, so this nothing works for me.<br />
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I am NOT hungry. I have not limited my food amount intake. I don't think - oops, too much fruit or I should have a small piece. I am doing portion control in general and working not to eat when I am not hungry. But trust me, if I am hungry, I eat. <br />
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I am feeling really good. I had no idea how much pain I was dealing with on a daily and consistent basis until it was gone. I knew about the aches and when things flared up. I didn't know that it really hurt all the time. That was 'normal' for me. Now it is gone, WOW!!! A side benefit I never expected, the stiffness and occasional ache in my knee that I have had since my surgery is gone. I thought that was just part of it. I realized this morning I haven't had it for over a week and the activities I would expect it to accompany have happened! <br />
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I didn't make this change specifically to lose weight, although my research suggested that might be a benefit. I can tell you that I saw a number on the scale last night I haven't seen since before my knee surgery either.<br />
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On a side note about weight loss, since that is how this BLOG got started. I started running in Jan of 2011. I can tell you that I trained for 2 half marathons and a full marathon with out any weight loss. People say- but yeah, I bet it is more muscle and you really did lose. Um, NOPE! Know how I know? My body fat % stayed the same. So yes, I am stronger. My heart is stronger, my lungs are stronger, my muscles are stronger, but no, I did not lose any weight. I lost a tiny bit training for the Super Spartan and then the half marathon this spring, but it was a tiny bit. Having this be a benefit from the dietary change is exciting, but not the reason for the change.<br />
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Another observation, this is not all in my head. How do I know? I went out last weekend for dinner. We went to Mexican food, which I love. Mexican food is not Paleo friendly. Once I decided that it wasn't going to happen, I let lose and enjoyed my meal. From the corn chips with salsa to the rice and beans. I darn near licked the plate and it tasted amazing (it always does at this particular restaurant). I also could hardly move my fingers the next morning and my hands ached for 3 days. Only yesterday evening did it finally subside completely. Do I feel like I undid all that good? Yes. Am I glad to know that the changes really are what is making the difference? Yes. Will I probably do it again at some point? Yep- you can bet on it. I will know the trades off though and it will be part of the decision making process.<br />
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I would love to share information and answer any questions you all might have. Please let me know what you want to know and I will post responses.Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-85202623985264301232012-05-29T18:08:00.003-07:002012-05-29T18:08:19.386-07:00Going PrimalNow, before you freak out or get too excited, I mean with food. Some of you may have heard of the Paleo diet and some of you may not. I have been researching it for some time and decided it is time for me, personally, to give it a go. There are several reasons, but for me, the primary one is the anti-inflammatory properties. I have been having some problems with developing arthritis in my hands. An ache is one thing, not being able to properly grip the pull up bar or weight bars is quite another. Time to take some action!!!<br />
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I decided to start with <a href="http://www.marksdailyapple.com/">Mark Sisson's</a> book - <a href="http://primalblueprint.com/brands/The-Primal-Blueprint-21%252dDay-Total-Body-Transformation.html">21 Day Total Body Transformation</a>. It is giving me the information, reasons, etc. that I need to understand the 'why' of it all. It is pretty fascinating reading. It then also gives me a 'plan' to get started. I was hoping for pretty specific meal plans, but it doesn't have that. The intent being that I can have what I want and customize it. I was hoping for lazy and follow directions, lol! <br />
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The good news is I also got the <a href="http://primalblueprint.com/brands/Primal-Blueprint-Quick-%26-Easy-Meals.html">Quick & Easy Meals</a> cookbook. I am trying a few things from it bit by bit and will let you know how it goes. There are also a lot of resources online, blogs, recipes, etc. that I am finding. <br />
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Now, to see how I feel in a few weeks. Hopefully I am going to be swinging across those monkey bars at the <a href="http://spartanrace.extole.com/a/clk/3yH96T">Spartan Races</a> like nobody's business!!! <br />
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<br />Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-53744039934942902922012-02-17T18:19:00.000-08:002012-02-17T18:19:47.574-08:00More pictures<div style="text-align: center;">Just a few more to share with you all, because I am so euphoric about it all still!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OOMApBSQdpw/Tz8JP5BnMYI/AAAAAAAAds0/dgjf8EJpFNc/s1600/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_648743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OOMApBSQdpw/Tz8JP5BnMYI/AAAAAAAAds0/dgjf8EJpFNc/s320/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_648743.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The starting line, and no, I am not one of those shirtless people you see :)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLjaXXt9kX4/Tz8Jm0dtyQI/AAAAAAAAdtc/LsIR6rWUD_E/s1600/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_661402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLjaXXt9kX4/Tz8Jm0dtyQI/AAAAAAAAdtc/LsIR6rWUD_E/s320/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_661402.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">AFTER rolling in the mud under the barb wire.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Yq6NHlLAvI/Tz8Jc5N-aDI/AAAAAAAAds8/UnGLGo5EYIE/s1600/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_653403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Yq6NHlLAvI/Tz8Jc5N-aDI/AAAAAAAAds8/UnGLGo5EYIE/s320/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_653403.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Leaping fire! - was really, really hoping for a better picture of this obstacle, but it is what it is and I know there is fire with that smoke!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OHDjvfyigoY/Tz8JfavLvQI/AAAAAAAAdtE/bSv_6QJ48cs/s1600/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_659291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OHDjvfyigoY/Tz8JfavLvQI/AAAAAAAAdtE/bSv_6QJ48cs/s320/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_659291.jpg" width="213" /></a></div> Battling through the gladiators to get to the finish line, with my brothers BEHIND me, WOOT WOOT!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HpiqTMF20I4/Tz8JhoLDm0I/AAAAAAAAdtM/zXYMOQQBrk8/s1600/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_659296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HpiqTMF20I4/Tz8JhoLDm0I/AAAAAAAAdtM/zXYMOQQBrk8/s320/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_659296.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kkSVJPYjN3c/Tz8Jj4o2J8I/AAAAAAAAdtU/P2ZEA13Kkcc/s1600/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_659297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kkSVJPYjN3c/Tz8Jj4o2J8I/AAAAAAAAdtU/P2ZEA13Kkcc/s320/nuvision_action_image_storefront_1_659297.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here come the boys! WE DID IT! WE ARE SPARTANS!! YES!~</div>Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-67426807802372073972012-02-15T20:01:00.000-08:002012-02-15T20:01:53.689-08:00I AM A SPARTAN!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q8vkDu2vS8I/TzvG-n6KxnI/AAAAAAAAdsc/wl9FvD6xZ0w/s1600/4w1eybto.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q8vkDu2vS8I/TzvG-n6KxnI/AAAAAAAAdsc/wl9FvD6xZ0w/s1600/4w1eybto.png" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The race was AMAZING! Easily one of the BEST days of my life. I did not complete every obstacle, but I tried ALL of them. There were 5 I had to do burpees for instead, total 150 burpees, but I completed the course. It ROCKED!!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ltQvZw6JKo/TzvF-89RfwI/AAAAAAAAdsI/hxEl0TdBUvU/s1600/DSCF5379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ltQvZw6JKo/TzvF-89RfwI/AAAAAAAAdsI/hxEl0TdBUvU/s320/DSCF5379.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Getting ready. "George" is hanging out. George is the rock in the picture and there is a very, VERY long story that accompanies him. If you are not delirious from going 10 miles and thinking a bike is a snake, you probably won't see the humor in it. :) However, George went the entire race with me and has lived to tell about it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hkAWxZzX_Oo/TzvGDVALEBI/AAAAAAAAdsQ/vO-7WOybce4/s1600/DSCF5380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hkAWxZzX_Oo/TzvGDVALEBI/AAAAAAAAdsQ/vO-7WOybce4/s320/DSCF5380.JPG" width="241" /></a></div><br />
After the race. We really were even muddier than this at one point, but this is the shot when we got back to my brothers' place. Complete FUN and total exhaustion.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wyqf09WpaF0/TzvFzAGnjQI/AAAAAAAAdsA/_Of7nIu1rvQ/s1600/427018_2603448691151_1402872151_31932482_624043562_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wyqf09WpaF0/TzvFzAGnjQI/AAAAAAAAdsA/_Of7nIu1rvQ/s320/427018_2603448691151_1402872151_31932482_624043562_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The next day at lunch with another friend as well. The restaurant is probably thrilled we showed up in our shirts and not the medals too, lol!!Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-52326336955096983732012-02-07T11:22:00.000-08:002012-02-07T11:22:19.730-08:00Race BrainRace Brain- that is what I am officially calling it. Many mothers out there will identify it with Pregnancy Brain, just differently motivated. I am doing nothing be thinking about Saturday and the <a href="http://www.spartanrace.com/">Super Spartan</a>. I want to talk about it, think about it, work out for it, pack for it (yes, I said PACK already). Nothing else is getting through. In fact, several things I should be remembering are getting forgotten. Like what day it is, lol!<br />
<br />
<br />
So, anyone else do this? Is it just me? Please tell me it isn't just me!Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-4555886632444139452012-02-03T05:26:00.000-08:002012-02-03T15:24:10.596-08:00In ONE WEEK!!A week from tomorrow I will be participating in the the Super Spartan. It is almost here! This day was forever away, but now it is so close and I am more and more excited every single day! I can not WAIT!!!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1081672637"><br />
</a></div><div style="color: #660000; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/SpartanRaceTube" style="color: #660000;">SPARTAN RACE</a></b></span></div><br />
If anyone else would like to participate in these races, you can use the code IDSPARTA002 for any race, as often as you would like for $15 off registration.<br />
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ALSO - I know there is a need for additional volunteers for the Arizona Super next week. Volunteering comes with the opportunity to race for free. If you are interested, let me know and I will give you the person to contact.<br />
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Getting giddy excited here!Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-51265018415369028812012-01-13T06:53:00.000-08:002012-01-13T06:53:53.131-08:00Are you SPARTAN strong?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XETDOu8OeiA/TxBEt3931sI/AAAAAAAAdhA/1xuxO42HIFY/s1600/fire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XETDOu8OeiA/TxBEt3931sI/AAAAAAAAdhA/1xuxO42HIFY/s320/fire.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
just over FOUR WEEKS until my Spartan Super in AZ with my brothers. Honestly, I can not WAIT! I am terrified and super excited all at the same time. Knowing that we are doing it together and sticking together through the course is of great comfort and also what is going to give us some fun, laughs and fabulous stories!!<br />
<br />
Are YOU Spartan Strong? They have races all over the country, you can find the schedule on their website here:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.spartanrace.com/">SPARTAN RACE </a></span></div><br />
use code IDSPARTA002 for $15 off your registration for any of the events and find out!<br />
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Now, off to the gym with me!<br />
AlexAlexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-60505124884893770392012-01-10T09:06:00.000-08:002012-01-10T09:06:33.058-08:00Running from ZOMBIES?!?!?This app looks absolutely FUN and hysterical! I do not have a smart phone, but you can bet that when I do, this is going on it! What a great way to change things up. Just BRILLIANT!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.zombiesrungame.com/"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qalrnYKr4Ts/Twxvy4h-GEI/AAAAAAAAdg0/n7jyeKaFM2M/s1600/zombie.png" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Get going Runner 5!!</em></strong></span>Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-67093686442369036142011-12-31T08:42:00.000-08:002012-01-02T16:15:31.391-08:00Reflections on the year and 2012I was thinking the other day about all the things I want to do for 2012. It is that time of year you know. I was thinking about the <a href="http://www.spartanrace.com/">Spartan Super</a> in 7 weeks and wondering if I am really ready or just how crazy I am and so glad to have my brothers doing it too. Thinking about being excited to do the <a href="http://robiecreek.com/">Race to Robie </a>again this year. Thinking about my daily grind and how to make it less of a grind. Part of me became very overwhelemed. I had to step back and instead reflect on 2011.<br />
<br />
One year ago:<br />
I had not started running and learned that after the first 1 1/2 miles, I LOVE it.<br />
I had not gotten to know my friend Betty so well and I am soooooooooooo blessed to have her in my life.<br />
I had not considered running the <a href="http://robiecreek.com/">Race to Robie</a>, EVER.<br />
I had not done a 5k.<br />
I had not done a half marathon.<br />
I had not finished a FULL MARATHON!!<br />
I had not considered signing up for a <a href="http://www.spartanrace.com/">Spartan Race</a>.<br />
I had not realized how much power is 'IN ME'.<br />
I had not fully appreciated the amazing friendships I am surrounded by (how many people do you know that will come run part of 22 miles with you and support you on the rest of them during their weekend retreat?-thank you Kimberlee!)<br />
I had not realized and appreciated how silently supportive my fabulous husband is even when he just doesn't 'get it'. <br />
<b><i><br />
</i></b><br />
<b><i>I am truly blessed!</i></b><br />
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Now, it is time to build on this. Really build. I have made so much progress, but I am not done! I will constantly BE a <i>Work In Progress</i>. That is what it is all about. So, for 2012...<br />
<br />
I will continue to set goals for competitions. I have learned these are what keep me motivated to get out there and MOVE.<br />
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I will continue to improve my eating habits. I have learned (but need reminded sometimes) some things about myself. Sugar is my addiction. I love sweets. I am very much one of the one bite is too much and the entire pan is never enough variety. IF I do not have the one bite I am fine. Once I do, the will power is out the window. I completely agree with everything a person reads that one bite will satisfy and the first bite is the best, etc., etc., etc. If you can do this, DO! It is correct. However, I need to just not have it. That is when my will power works. I can say no to the entire spread, until I start, then the will power no longer exists.<br />
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There truly is NOTHING that tastes good enough to do situps, pushups, 5 mile run and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysa53r_FvgM">burpees</a> for. NOTHING! Not even creme brulee, and for those of you that know me, you <i>know</i> what I just said. I can NOT complain about the way I look and eat the way I have. That is hypocritical. If nothing changes, nothing changes. The ONLY person responsible for this is ME! I either want it enough or I don't. End of story.<br />
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My time is valuable. I need to spend it doing things that make me happy. Now, with regard to my daily grind. I only have a certain level of control there. BUT I can control how much I invest. I will give it my BEST on a consistent basis. Yes, I will have bad days, but since I am there I need to truly 'show up'. Will it be perfect, nope. Will I survive, yep. Can I give more, most certainly. I am being paid to be there, I need to give what they are paying for. Show up, put up and shut up - or get out.<br />
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Life is too short to be surrounded by misery. People who drain me, may no longer get my energy. I can love people and care about them, but I can NOT change them. I can't help anyone who doesn't TRULY want it. That is not mean, that is taking care of me. The only person I CAN change.<br />
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For the last several years, a group of gals I am blessed to know have participated in an exercise to select a word for the upcoming year. This year, I spent a lot of time thinking and am actually reusing one from several years ago. My word for 2012 is STRENGTH. I have learned there is more strength in me that I realized and I need to call on it. I also need to develop more of my physical strength, intellectual strength and strength to be the best I can be. I want to continue to strengthen the wonderful relationships around me. I am truly blessed and should nurture that! I want to be an example and source of strength for those around me that wish to have it. <br />
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So, what did you DO and LEARN in 2011? How will you 'TAKE IT FORWARD"? <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yeStV_6B5pU/Tv87LMnf98I/AAAAAAAAcu0/GhXRnUAS4I0/s1600/281797_226735424036000_113859451990265_633710_8346985_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yeStV_6B5pU/Tv87LMnf98I/AAAAAAAAcu0/GhXRnUAS4I0/s320/281797_226735424036000_113859451990265_633710_8346985_n.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><br />
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Wishing you all the very best in the upcoming year of 2012, and THANK YOU for being part of my journey this far.<br />
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lots of hugs and <i>strength</i>!<br />
Get Inky!<br />
AlexAlexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-18488536594515751832011-12-29T14:01:00.000-08:002011-12-29T14:01:06.566-08:00Make your dreams you GOALS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IHrA4pa4s-U/TvzjGLJ9qHI/AAAAAAAAcuQ/X1zrCEpgOFk/s1600/397877_870870326790_6902425_39905241_1518142999_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IHrA4pa4s-U/TvzjGLJ9qHI/AAAAAAAAcuQ/X1zrCEpgOFk/s400/397877_870870326790_6902425_39905241_1518142999_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-71785137335321809622011-11-02T12:16:00.000-07:002012-06-13T12:17:09.883-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
Here it is. THE medal. Yep, THE one from THE marathon.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Wa758Na6bfjpkkJzU-43A9dlLY4IH5gfDj-r8Aw-Q12laxkAghgVDUf1McIx97hVu1ZGbTbfbYg3y9C41EYQq83uS5KfSQeyY4h58LVyN6Sy60tdFLP1WLoNcfe-p7PbG67nS2L1TbI/s1600/medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Wa758Na6bfjpkkJzU-43A9dlLY4IH5gfDj-r8Aw-Q12laxkAghgVDUf1McIx97hVu1ZGbTbfbYg3y9C41EYQq83uS5KfSQeyY4h58LVyN6Sy60tdFLP1WLoNcfe-p7PbG67nS2L1TbI/s320/medal.jpg" width="257" /></a></div>Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-3097222395736844312011-11-01T06:44:00.000-07:002011-11-01T06:44:25.510-07:00I did it, yep - I did!I finished the marathon. Yep, after all that hard work, months of miles and my family putting up with me either gone running or completely useless when I returned on Saturdays, I have completed my marathon. I am proud. Very proud. I am also never doing it again. EVER! Well, as of right now. I have to tell you, it wasn't the marathon itself, it was all the time it takes to train. Hours and hours, many of those in a row! I just don't want to spend my life that way. I don't like leaving my family hanging that much either. Perhaps later in my life, I will do this again. But, for now, half marathons it is :)Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-28521335103958018202011-09-12T12:43:00.000-07:002011-09-12T12:43:16.706-07:00Some days ARE harder than othersThere are days that you don't want to work out. Or there is something you want to eat you shouldn't. But then there are the days when it isn't that, it just really is a hard day! You do the workout, but no matter how hard you work, the results aren't quite up to normal. You just can't get the muscles and the brain and the lungs all working together.<br />
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What do YOU do on those days? I have learned to listen to my body. Sometimes these days are my body telling me to take a day off. Time for an extra rest day. Keeping in mind this doesn't turn into a rest week, month, etc. That is ok and a good thing to do when appropriate.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, it just is a day that is harder than others and the very best thing I can do is do it anyway. I feel great at the end because I did it even when I didn't want to. When 10 pounds FELT like 40. When my brain wanted to know why I was even bothering. Those are the days I really NEED to do it for me. Not for the physical, but for the mental exercise. Those are the days that once done, fuel me the next time it is a hard day, and I know there is another one around the corner someplace.Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-19490022024926261502011-09-04T10:06:00.000-07:002011-09-04T10:06:05.900-07:00The Gates of H*** are at mile ten.Yep- that is where they are and they are not a fun entry. <span class="commentBody" data-jsid="text">This is what I have learned in the last several weeks of long and longer Saturday runs training for this marathon. Apparently, for me, it is all well and good up to mile ten and then it is not fun anymore. Seems to be my 'mental' spot consistently. By mile 12, all was well in the world. Mile 14, I saw a kid on a bike that I knew if I could catch him I could take him out and steal the bike. Mile 19, felt pretty stinkin' good and glad to be done with it :)</span><br />
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<span class="commentBody" data-jsid="text">So- beware that mile 10 and ignore anything I say, beg, plead or ask you to do (take me home NOW!) between mile 10 and 11! </span>Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-72983647597544225692011-09-02T10:05:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:05:23.057-07:00Ouch!New workout yesterday and today I am a bit sore. Not a lot, just some. It is kind of nice. Nope, I don't LIKE pain, it is just that this feeling lets me know that I am making changes and improving. That I worked hard enough to hurt :)Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-71196788421884136342011-08-29T15:43:00.000-07:002011-08-29T15:43:34.341-07:00Food journalsok- I realize that if I really want to lose weight and achieve my goals I need to keep a food journal. Can I just tell you how much I don't like doing this and how really, REALLY bad I am at it? I can do it consistently for about half a day, period. Then suddenly it is 4 days later and I am trying to remember what I ate and I can't so....<br />
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I keep trying and I am trying once again, but there is no 'easy' way for me to do this. Not a notebook, not computer tracking, nothing. I just need to have better discipline. Period.<br />
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Anyone else?Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-20114607306742808192011-08-27T19:48:00.000-07:002011-08-27T19:48:12.905-07:0012 milesI am NOT going to say 12 miles today was easy, but it was a whole lot less difficult than the 18 last Saturday. I am counting down Saturday runs to the marathon at this point. Only 2 more really long ones left before THE REAL DEAL! WOW! It is starting to get close! <br />
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I was talking with someone today and they mentioned being afraid they would be 'last' if the were to do a full marathon. Ummm, SO? I don't care one bit if I am last, I am FINISHING! Even if it means I CRAWL across that finish line. For me, this isn't any sort of speed issue whatsoever. This is about endurance and completing 26.2 miles.Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-23442914658001837522011-08-20T16:30:00.000-07:002011-08-20T16:30:10.205-07:00I went 18 miles todayYes, I really went 18 miles. I rocked the first 11 of them. Then did pretty well for the next 3, then my legs just wouldn't move any faster than they were moving. I felt GREAT. Not winded, not tired, the bottom of my feet were sore and I had an new rubbed sore spot that will get body glide next time, but I just couldn't my legs to not plod along. I took more walk time and am pretty sure I walked faster than I ran. I don't know what it was, other than perhaps just the length of time I was out there. Something about 4 hours being plenty long enough :). For the first time though, I had the mantra going in my head. Guess I need to find a better one, but this one DID get me through a couple of miles Wondering if I EVER want to do full again. Probably not, but I WILL finish this one and WILL keep running, because I do enjoy it.Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-1287645888827114052011-08-11T10:06:00.001-07:002011-08-11T10:06:23.099-07:00The inspiration I needed today<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fbEkCHMlCRM/TkQMBzqyWqI/AAAAAAAAcC4/Jif3NyivVWk/s1600/267867_212021275507415_113859451990265_584880_6239771_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fbEkCHMlCRM/TkQMBzqyWqI/AAAAAAAAcC4/Jif3NyivVWk/s400/267867_212021275507415_113859451990265_584880_6239771_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910298206909420577.post-41881490707034557722011-08-05T08:04:00.000-07:002011-08-05T08:04:31.993-07:00Why am I doing this again?So, I saw this quote and it pretty much summed up a bunch of stuff...<br />
<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">"One thing about racing is that it hurts. You better accept that from the beginning or you're not going anywhere." -Bob Kennedy, US 5000m record holder and first non-African under 13 minutes</span></span></i></h6><br />
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Lately as I hobble out of bed and start the day stretching my Achilles, or when I lean and a muscle tells me it is sore, I have been wondering WHAT AM I THINKING!?!?!?. Not with any thought to stop, mind you, but more of a who is this person and where did she come from that thinks this is not only a good idea, but fun?<br />
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I have come to realize that is not sanity kicking in but self doubt. The part of my brain that has been trained to tell me that I can't and I shouldn't try. Well guess what, I am kicking <i>THAT me</i> to the <b>curb</b>! I can, and I WILL! I am going to feel like a rock star and do the hard stuff. The things I have never done, but always dreamed of. This is just the first step, my life has so many more things I want to do and accomplish. Look out world, I am HERE!!!!Alexandra Lundgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04999114433810548107noreply@blogger.com1