Some random thoughts

Thanks for your suggestions regarding running. I've been jogging a little more each day this week and then walking when I need to. I have discovered that I definitely like running downhill better than uphill! I also like how my muscles feel a little sore during the day- it's weird but it makes me feel alive.

I just read a fantastic book called "Whatever You Do, Don't Run". It's by a guy named Peter Allison who spent most of the last twelve years as a safari guide in Botswana. It's always been a dream of mine to go to Africa- now I am going to start saving my pennies because I'm so excited. Troy agreed to come with me, but he's not nearly as enthusiastic as I am. I know he wants to see the animals, but camping and unfamiliar foods are not his thing.

We took the kids camping overnight earlier this week and it turns out that they love it! Maddie was hesitant before we left, but all night she kept remarking about how much more fun camping was than she thought it'd be. We just went up American Fork Canyon- away from civilization but not too far away from civilization. We also saw "Journey to the Center of the Earth 3D"- of the three movies we've seen lately (including Wall-E and the Dark Knight) it was by far my favorite.

Oh, and guess what? The Office, Season 4 is out on DVD September 2! This is my favorite TV show, maybe of all time. Troy got me the first 3 seasons for Christmas and we've watched them so much we have most of the dialogue memorized.

One final random thing- I'm posting a picture of my penpal Tim and his new wife. They live in Australia and Tim and I have been penpals since I was in 8th grade (closing in on twenty years). They got married in April and he sent me a photo so here you go:

I'd love to hear your suggestions

OK, I have been inspired by the blogs of several friends who have either recently started running or picked it up again. I've never been a runner, but so many people like that I decided to give it a shot. I found a training schedule (The Couch-to-5K Running Plan) which looks pretty good. I'm not actually starting from the couch- Troy and I have been walking about 30 minutes every morning this summer. But I'm still way in the beginner stages.
The plan suggests that for the first week I should do three workouts. Each workout starts with a 5 minute brisk walk to warm up. Then I alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes. Sounds pretty good, but I really have no idea. What do all you experienced runners think? I'm anxious to get started Monday so let me know right away! :)