Fast Running Mommy

Great job, Sarah! Welcome back! You're a "far running mommy" already, and before long, you'll be a "fast running mommy" too! Are you planning on doing any races in the spring? It would be neat to break 50min. in 10K, don't you think? Or 24min. in 5K. If you keep running 3-4 miles a day, you'll be in great shape come spring.

We'll see what happens come spring.

I haven't been racing for the last year because I got pregnant with Jacob when Joseph was only nine months old and I hadn't really recovered from him totally(in my running that is)

Thanks for the inspiring comments..they keep me going.

Sarah

Mommy soon you will break seven.

Hey Sarah. I've been looking for you on the blog. I was looking at your accomplishments & I am astounded! When you said you ran pregnant, I was thinking a slow mile a day--not running 10K races in 53 minutes! That's amazing! Hope your trip home was okay.

Hey Sarah. I've been looking for you on the blog. I was looking at your accomplishments & I am astounded! When you said you ran pregnant, I was thinking a slow mile a day--not running 10K races in 53 minutes! That's amazing! Hope your trip home was okay.

I think that there were some extenuating circumstances last race, right? I would expect that you will not be running right after a trauma this next time, and that you will do very well. Maybe you could take some of the pressure off yourself by changing your goal for the race from one based on time, to one based on fun. Make this one the funnest race you've ever had--get those water fights going, wear a funky hat, or whatever works for you. Having just had 5 little ones does take a toll, but it doesn't mean that you can't still run. It means you should be kinder to yourself and adjust your expectations. Remember, it takes 2 years after having a baby for your body to get back to normal, including replenishing minerals and internal organs getting back to their previous state. (This is according to my nutrition class at BYU.) I think you are amazing for being able to run 10 miles period. Good luck!

Hey, I just read your comments... and I have 2 things to say, First, awesome that Sasha is learning piano and you are helping him. It'll just be one more great thing you guys have in common. Secondly, there is no such thing as being pregnant too early on to have it affect running. I get winded just walking around the pharmacy to get the pregnancy test. Ha ha. You are a running goddess, just admit it.

Oh yeah, and the 6 hours piano was because I'm playing for a school choir concert and I have like a week to learn 12 pieces. The threat of public humiliation is a great motivator, eh? Plus, two of those hours were a run through with the director (the other 4 were half an hour at a time throughout the day).

Oh yeah--Good job on the toy room. You deserve a medal!

Good job, or the way they say it here in UK, well done! You have run every day this week so far - very consistent. And 8:20-8:30 pace is pretty speedy. When is the 10 mile race?

Fun! I love dates that are calorie expending, rather than fattening. We used to go out to eat a lot. We've added a lot more rollerblading trips, or walks, or even boating. Tell Sasha Happy Birthday!

Ug, sorry about the sleep. Motherhood is very humbling for me. No matter how well I am doing, I am only one sickness away from being brought to my knees. Everything is easier when you are well-rested . . . and everything is so much harder when you're not. Take it easy. My sister who just had a baby goes to bed at 8:00 pm and she is the happiest mother of a newborn I've ever seen. She can even talk without forgetting words. Now if I could only follow her example . . .

Good job Sarah!

10 months old! Holy Cow. I hate it if I feel like people are judging me as a parent. It would be so much easier if kids never cried in public, from that standpoint. Now if we can just convince our babies to comply . . .

BTW since you guys stayed with us we've had family scripture reading and family runs every day. (Other than running on Sun.) As a family, you guys set a great example.

Running after stomach flu! What dedication... James ran a race once 3 or 4 days after having a bad flu. That was the time I had to go pick him up from the perimedics. Apparently he kept going until he could no longer even walk in a straight line. Oops.

Hope you feel better soon, Sarah! Stomach bugs are no fun, especially when the whole family gets them :(. Your running is going great though!

Be thou encouraged! Running under these conditions counts at least double the mileage, IMHO.

I question the Pachev sanity more after reading the painful workouts Sasha puts himself through than I do about your wanting more kids--especially because I've met your kids and they are so awesome. :) Good to see you back. 7:52 would put me in the hospital.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Up every hour! Hope he stays well. My kids' fevers tend to go up at night, I don't know why. You're such a good Mommy.

This is in response to your feedback. My tomato plants are huge! They have lots of little tomatoes all over them, well, at least they WOULD if little Adam would stop picking them all. At least they look pretty? Oh well. I'm so glad you all came down with Sasha. The next time I get super sick I'm going to have to have you come down and cook for both our families and watch all the kids while I lounge around and take long naps. Doesn't that sound great? JK

Actually I was driving around this beautiful neighborhood scoping out houses for sale, and I found (drool drool) a largish 4 bedroom ranch on a couple of acres right next to a huge park with a running trail, and it had a little guest house on the grounds with a mini kitchen and bathroom and everything and my first thought was "Wow! If we lived here it would be perfect for having the Pachevs over next time." : )

Good luck Sarah! Have a great race. Wow about all that yard work. Sheesh! A lot of work...but sounds beeeeeeeeyooo-tiful. And what a great garden!

Wooo-Hoooo! Congrats on a fine race. I never doubted you for a minute.

Nice! Amazing that you are feeling so great after running such a challenging course on Sat. Bravo!

Hey we must be on at the same time! I just saw your comment and I have to say that I wouldn't put it past you to run Boston someday. Anyone who can juggle all the things you are doing now can probably accomplish anything! But please don't do it pregnant. You'll make all us wussy women (who are incapacitated during pregnancy--like me!) look bad.

I've noticed that I feel more tired the day after running well, too. That's why I usually do 3 miles one day, 2 the next.

Blog your organ practice if it'll help you do it. I'll care! I need to get off my duff and start putting in more serious practice time. I just ordered some awesome new music--can't wait to get started on it.

You know what I really need to blog is when I get to bed. I really need help reigning in the old bedtime. I got into a bad pattern of staying up late when James was gone and I'm still not back to normal. They say it takes 3 weeks to develop a good habit. But somehow it only takes 3 days to acquire a bad one!

Cute T Shirt design. I keep waiting for someone to make a "Short Pride" T shirt. I know I'd buy one! On the back--picture 3 short stick figures carrying a tall stick figure with the moving slogan "Short People Unite!"

Yikes! I hope Adrianne is okay. You know, someday when you guys are totally rich and famous, you need to get a winter home down here, so we can train together.

I hear you. You have to run it like a relay, except that instead of the baton you end up passing off kids. Summer is tricky. Maybe 2 shorter runs or treadmill is what I'm thinking for me.

I bet when Sasha really makes you mad that you run even faster. It's all part of his master plan. He he he.

How brave of you to embark on such a big sewing project! I have to admit that I haven't touched the sewing machine since you left, except to put it back into it's home-deep in the dark recesses of my closet, where it can cause me the least amount of guilt.

Yay for Sarah. You are the WOMAN!

Sarah--I'll see you at the Provo 10 miler (I think James is going to do it) Cool! Good job today again.

Hi Sarah- fun to read your comment on my blog (about the heat) I'm feeling whimpy! I'm hoping I just need to re-adjust to St. George. I lived down here for a few yrs. then moved up north, then recently moved back down here again. But getting up early and beating the heat is better for me anyway so I can get a head start on the day (you know face the kids in an upbeat way- hee hee)

He he. I actually can't bring myself to do it. I'll have to choose other consequences. I am STILL really struggling with getting to bed on time too. I think I just really crave down time--and that just doesn't happen during the day light hours for a mommy. I'm going to bed NOW. It is 10:30. I will be up and on the road/treadmill tomorrow by 6:15.

P.S. You're starting to make 4 miles sound really easy . . .

Sounds like a great idea, but I don't have a t.v. in the room with my treadmill right now. I really don't run on it that much right now. This winter I't will definatley be a must though, as I hope to have increaed my distance some.

Cool! You should take a picture of one of your paintings and post it on the blog. You ran earlier today, so I had to follow YOUR example.

I think you shouldn't force the distance. If you feel good going 4, but no longer, let it be until one day you feel really good and want to go farther (and it doesn't have to be Saturday!). You're doing great, and you have to consider everything else you're doing daily which amounts to extra mileage, I'm sure, as opposed to someone like me, who goes to work, sits on her butt most of the day, goes home and runs. Housework and being a mom is a very demanding job!

Hey! Mileage under the influence of recent migraines counts double! So that's 7.5 for the day. *Whew* I'm sure Sasha will agree with me . . .

We're coming to Utah! James and I (plus 3 random children) are trying to figure out someplace to stay in Provo on the Friday night right before the 10 miler. Any ideas would be appreciated...

So......did you get the comment I just sent you when I asked if we could see you....yay...you have to stay with us!!

Hallelujah! This is going to be great. AND what a CUTE PICTURE!!!

The picture is absolutely great!! I can even tell who is who :).

How Cool! I assume it is more fun to run with a partner. I haven't really done much of that yet. I'm still hoping you guys will buy a winter racing headquarters up here. : )

See ya in 1 week!

Hey Sarah! No, we won't be able to make it for dinner. My little nephew is getting baptized Friday night at 6:30 and we are all going out to eat before that. We are planning on making it over after the baptism, so we probably won't be able to get over there until at least 8:00. Sorry so late! James' Cell is 480 648 6623. I'm super excited to see you guys!

hey mommy lets have French toast for breakfast tomorrow.

Maybe another day my little brown eyed wonder...we have puffins and other yummy breakfast treats to eat up....

Hi Sarah,

It took me awhile to join because I knew I would become immediately addicted to this site. You and Sasha have done a great job with this and it is a fun and useful training tool as well as way to socialize. As far as Sandra also joining goes, I mentioned it to her and we'll see. She has been very busy. She took over a year off of running since she was pregnant and is just getting back into it. Also, she has been busy at church with some outreach programs. I'll let you know that you asked about her joining though.

Good job Sarah! That is smokin in my book!

By the way...cute picture! I didn't know you guys had cute little redheads!

I agree with Mik'L! 10 miles at that pace is most impressive. It was great to see you guys. If only there were 8 days in a week we could've stayed another day. Thanks for the hospitality.

Congratulations, Sarah! This is a very respectable time over 10 miles. Your steady diet of 4-a-day paid off, and you should be proud!

Thanks for the congrats everyone...that makes me feel super.

We have adorable red headed girls....Sasha's genes coming through...two brown headed darlings from mom and one blondy that may go strawberry again when he is older..his hair started red as a baby and bleached away. We are super blessed with an adorable bunch...thanks!!

hey awesome 10 miles and keep up the great training

Sarah you are awesome. you have been a real big help to me. I am glad that you too struggle some times. that helps me know you are human just like me.

I can't wait to take Ambrose to the fire station on Monday. that will be fun. C U Later Stephanie

beautiful family pic!

I know my comment will surprise you, but hey I found you online and I thought I would contact you. It is your old roommate, Amy. Bytheway, I am totally inspired by your running and having 5 kids! I would love to hear more about your life. So much has happened. I would love to get an email from you. You can email me at fritzimouse@msn.com

About piano methods. Bastien is a relatively quick paced method for young kids. The music is corny, but it does a great job of teaching kids intervals, which is so awesome for good reading skills. I sometimes put 9-11 year-olds right into Bastien, if they are the kind to practice songs even if they don't like the particular piece.

My favorite for kids 6-9 is Faber & Faber Piano Adventures. Songs are VERY CUTE, plus they often have duets for the teacher to play that sound really cool. Fun to play with your kids AND it teaches them to keep a steady beat. It is pedagodically very sound--based on really good research about how kids learn. I don't like the theory and technic for Faber, though. What I usually do is use a theory and technic book from Bastien, and the lesson and performance book from Faber. In general, I think getting a piano teacher for your kids is advisable. Even I am going to take Sam to a different teacher sometime in the next year, when I feel he is ready dig in. But I'm sure you would do a good job too. I know it can be expensive when you have lots of kids!

If Sasha was my student, I would put him in the Accelerated Piano Adventures (lesson book) for the older beginner.

Very cool music. He might go right into book 2, depends on his counting. He'd need a theory book. I like Snell Theory for my adults. Make sure he starts in the preparatory level--it moves really fast!

I've never used Pace, but if that is what you are familiar with, it might be the best choice.

thanks for the advice...their piano teacher is a sweet girl but going through some rough times right now and I'm not sure if she's gonna be there for them in the next few months

well all of that could be worse.

I am glad you got to start your day :-) Happy

don't worry be happy. things will get better.

Hey Sarah! I can understand the van door and the swamp cooler, but HOLY MOLY call out the troops!!! It is a level 1 emergency when the garbage disposal stops working. Ours broke last year and within a 12 hour period we had dished stacked precariously at least a full foot higher than the lip of the sink. AAAAHHH! I don't know why they can't invent a garbage disposal that can handle choking on a dishrag without breaking... (It was probably weakened by many run-ins with baby spoons). Hope you slept better last night. And, of course, fabulous job on your run as usual.

thanks gals...I am sure our garbage disposal was ready to die when we bought the house..I knew there would be problems but I didn't anticipate eveything going at once...okay there are lots of things that still work ....I'll focus on that...

Lybi...I saw your comment on MikL's blog about how cool it is that she's bumping up her mileage so fast...I felt a little envious myself. Sasha tells me to run steady everyday and not bump mine up to fast so I'll listen to him. Also you have to remember you are a mom with three little guys who may not let you recover after a 6 or 8 mile run...I think you are building a good solid base and in a couple of months you'll be able to go longer

The Garmin is cool, plus the bulk of it on your arm must have some kind of aerobic benefit, right? Hey--good luck on your race this weekend. I can't wait to read your race report!

Hey nice blog, it's a good reminder that I needed. Sometimes I get so caught up in my to do list, and what's for dinner I forget to make memories with my kids! That's what it's really all about! Thanks! Happy running!

Neat idea with the kids - Im sure they had alot of fun.

I dont think Ive mentioned this to Sasha. This was awhile ago, I think around 1994, I climbed Mount Elbrus in Russia (first American team ascent of the north face), then I lived with a Russian family for 4 weeks in St. Petersburg

Wow what an adventure Michael. All my years in Russia(I lived there with my family as a teenager and now speak Russian fluently)..I never have been to St. Petersburg....I've made Sasha promise to take me there...someday...I'd almost forgotten about that dream....

Fun! See, this is another reason for us to try to be neighbors at some point. I need to hang out with a memory making expert. You plan all the fun stuff, and I teach all the kids to play piano. Sound like a deal?

By the way, I'm so sorry about your friend who passed away!

Hey! I know that feeling. You should definitely call me sometime. We can yak it up. That's how I get through the mountains in my house--you know, the laundry mountains or the dish mountains. I call up someone and enjoy their company, then before I know it the work is all done. Hope you feel better... you probably deserve a girl's night out sometime soon. If I lived in the same county as you, I'd make sure you took one!

My sister-in-law Kristina just joined the blog. She's a sweetie. She just had a baby 8 weeks ago. I've never run so soon after having a baby, so I have no idea what kind of stuff to tell her. When did you start running again after having a baby?

I love that feeling when you finally start to feel like you are in shape.

I like the picture of the Pachev family choir!

Hey Sarah! Thanks for your comment! I really do enjoy track meets, because they make me feel 15 again. Besides, it's fun to run fast :). I just love the track atmosphere, and I don't find it boring watching. I even enjoy watching my daughter's swim meets, and they involve hours of waiting (or watching other kids) for her 1 min. or 30 sec. race!

Hooray! You are doing so well! What is your next race?

I reaily like the pic it is cool.

I am glad that you are getting into shape. I am starting to feel better too. it is funny that when you feel better you don't want as many sweets. must have something to do with brain chemicals. do you know what heber's blog is. he has been so supportive as well as you all . Thanks C U tomorow morning.

Happy Birthday, Sarah! You should ask her to stay in Utah as a birthday present. You never know until you ask. Ha ha.

Cute. At least you got it all squared away. Mustn't waste any possible runs you can do with Adrianne.

Oh Sarah, what a lot you have on your plate! I will pray for your family. Oh, mastitis is the worst thing in the world. I hate it! Plus sick kids! :( I know what you mean about your baby growing up. Adam has started flinging himself out of his crib, so we had to put him in a toddler bed. So we finally put that crib away, and I just about cried. This is the first time in 6 years that I haven't had a baby in the house--all rough and tumble little boys now.

Thanks for your comment on my blog- I have fun writing them (sometimes more than others, like on July 11). I can't take credit for the name- I read it somewhere. And fortunately my daughter gets her looks from her mom, not me.

I like the picture of your family- very cute. And all smiling!

Glad you are finding ways to still get running in with 5 kids and I think Im busy with 1 kid

you are busy...definitely!! Everyone fills their time with something...I just find my days a little bit more packed with more kids and a little bit more stressful with a 2 year old. It will be fun to see if you beat my kids at the next race...I love the little competition you and Jenny have going on..it's fun.

Shopping with 6 kids...I can only imagine! You earned yourself another sandwich righ there, IMHO.

Does Sasha eat cookies? I can't imagine that. I bet you have a healthy recipe for cookies. I'm gonna check it out.

Mastitis = Youch!! I had that a few times, and it feels like you got hit by a train! Good for you to blog about running in pregnancy. There are so many myths out there. I ran until about a month before my daughter was born. I only stopped running because she was breach, and I was having trouble getting enough nutrients (her head was pressing on my stomach). I didn't want a thin baby. I ran 10 miles the last run I did. It is all about listening to your body, the baby, and staying hydrated.

Summer Harper is a fast running girl, Alexander has competed with her in some USATF races

Liked your blog, good positive comments on benefits to run

Youre lucky to have Sasha come and take the kids for a stroll after running 20 miles - I collapse after 10 miles yet alone 20

I've never run 10 miles pregnant but I think that you are in shape to run 10 miles then it is okay. I usually keep my four or five miles a day until the last couple of months I gradually cut down to 2 a day. The one thing that does change right away is my times get slower by 1 minute per mile right away...usually a sure sign for me that I'm pregnant.

I've actually "run" all the way up until I deliver (even in labor once and once a couple of days before to get myself to go into labor...which of course didn't work). I slow down to like a 14 minute mile and am pretty much putting along those last couple of weeks but I'm moving.

Are you doing the Provo River Half on Saturday? I still wish you were doing Hobblecreek with us! It's going to be a party :) That is pretty amazing that Sasha would take the kids right after a 20 miler! Although I did get Clyde to help me paint a couple walls on Saturday after his 20! Good luck with the 1/2 if you are doing it!

There you are, Sarah! I am Lybi's friend here in Mesa, and a fellow mother of five. I have heard much about you, and I wanted to tell you that I mentioned you in my "Personal" section on my brand new page here in this blog. If you check out my blogs, too, be sure to go back to July, because that's when I started and it's amusing (at least to me:).

I totally forget stuff when I leave the house for just the same reason.8) How old is your baby? Mine is almost 14mo, now. She is still nursing alot, though, and sleeping in her crib in our room, so she still feels like a baby to me. She loves to play w/ her siblings and explore, so she does not need as much attention as she used to.

Way to go, Sarah! 2:08 is a very respectable time, but minus all your bathroom breaks, it's closer to 2:00! Also, you ran it without doing any long runs, on only 4 miles a day - really good. Sasha is so supportive, you're lucky. I can't get my husband to even come to any of my races, let alone run with me, it's all so boring to him.

Good job Sarah! That is a good time, especially with all those issues you had! I hope I don't run in to half that many problems during my half and I'll still be happy with that time!

Sarah, first time I have read your blog. What a great story about the race, burrs, fat guys, eating leaves, you have a great sense of humor about running. Congrads on the time. Your actual running pace with all the stops was great.

Nice work on the 1/2!

Good job Sarah! You are the multi-talented wife.

Congratulations. Way to persevere and and end up with a great race!

Congrats Sarah on doing the 1/2 marathon, just doing it and finishing it is great. Maybe Ill do one someday. Yes you got to watch out for those burrs especially this time of the year, everything is producing seeds. I get off the trail alot with my trail work and get covered with them

Thanks everyone for the Congrats. I had a fun time...I'll remember the advice about the burrs Michael...believe me...I was soooo embarrassed.

But now that I read back over my entry it really was a pretty funny race...thanks again.

Oh dear! I can't believe you had to suffer through all that in one race! As if the pain of running a half marathon wasn't enough.... Good job Sarah, made me laugh and yet still inspired me.

Wow. What a crazy race! I'm so proud of you for hanging in there and running so well despite all the potential discouragements. Inspiring IS the word!

I've found that life became a lot easier when I accepted the fact of brown lawns and weeds.

Isn't that what a lawn is in Utah?

Aha!!! So you runners confess that you can't keep up with yard work and running..I knew it...I guess it doesn't help that we live in Utah...thanks for the laugh guys!!

You do know the old saying " If mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy" I can't believe how much truth there is to that! Luckily running is usually to blame for my better moods as it is a bit of a pick me up, so if the family has to endure a grumpy one now and then I'm sure the trade of is still in thier favor! :)

I'm sorry you're having one of those days. Is it better, yet?

I think you have TOTALLY earned a break. It isn't requisite that a WOman should run more than she has strength!

Is the honey sandwich for tiredness or a mood pick-up, or what?

School started here in Mesa, today. Do you have one or two children starting school soon? Or do you homeschool? I can't remember... My 4yo thought that her day would be endless fun (since bro & sis got to go to school) and was sad when we came home from Lybi's house & the store. :P She only had two little sisters to play with, then. hehe

You know I would love to have a running partener! If only in "Blog".... But I have to say there must of just been something in the air yesterday! I had one of the worst runs also (If you can count 2 miles on the treadmill a run) Luckily theres always tomorrow and things usually look up after a "rainy" day!

Since Ive started running on a regular basis my lawn has gone to chaos and despair. Time to teach those kids how to wash dishes too

Hi Sarah,

(this is the formerly pregnant heather--I 'm not sure how to respond to comments on my blog). Thanks for the welcome. I ran until I was 7 months pregnant and probably could have gone another month but I injured myself during a 5K race. So it's been 3 months since I've run and I can tell! I ran a couple of 5Ks while I was pregnant and loved the reaction of people seeing me and my bump in the race. :)

I am glad to see that biking and treadmills count as milage because once the snow starts piling up I am staying inside and using the eliptical trainer my husband bought for me. I've had the thing for months and have really used it yet but trust me in a few months it will see a lot more use.

Thanks Sarah I apprecaite the encouragement, I have had a hard summer so I need all I can get.

Why have you had a bad summer? I hope things will look up for you...you are a very talented runner. I am very impressed.

my eleven year old daughter had some medical issues at the begining of the summer (which is not the first time we have had this. She was born with arthrogryposis-a joint disorder-and has spent alot of time in and out of the hospital, but has been doing really good scence her back surgery 2 years ago) she just had another sugery a week ago. I also have had some personal termoil of my own with a very good friend, but I hope that can work itself out. And I hve had a calf and siatic issue for the past 6 weeks that has put a stop to my running. But I know these times pass and only make us stronger. I also play the flute and piano, I am better at the flute. I sew and paint as well. You have a cute little family. I am impressed you can keep up the running.

Sarah thanks for your welcome to the blog. You also have a very lovely family. I almost always see your husband on Saturdays running the Provo River Parkway and he is an inspiration to us all. However, it wasn't until his winning the DMN Marathon that I knew who he was. I have to tell you that your story about the bushes and the fat guys cracked me up. I laughed and said to my wife that I was probably one of those fat guys that you were drafting.

sarah- if I post a comment on my blog after you post a comment do you get the notification as well?

I think so..let's try it and see what happens.

that is how I replied to you last comment did you get it

Josse - if you reply to a comment, every poster in that thread gets notified if he has notifications enabled, which is the default.

Sarah, I finally made to your wonderful website. I feel like I could spend way too much time here. My username is crumpyb1. I miss you. I love your blogs. It's fun to hear about your days.

Adrianne

How exciting to hear from you Yay!!! It will almost be like you never left. Be sure to put a nice picture up on the blog so I can see your sparkly face!!

I think you are going to love this blog! It's addicting that's for sure but also good..nice stress relief...How are things in Iowa? How's my baby? Does he like the new sites and sounds? Talk to ya soon...let us know if you need any help setting up your site.

A bush that grew along the highways? That's a good one :) He He!

By the way, where is the search tool on the blog? Can't seem to find it, Sasha also mentioned some kinda way to find a distance on a 5k I ran once can't seem to find that either? Maybe I'm just blind!

Michelle - the search box is on the right side of this page. The Course Tool appears when you log in, there is a link to it on the left side.

Also - Sarah got it wrong. I did not think that a skunk was a plant. I just did not recognize the smell, and thought that it came from some exotic tropical plant (I first smelled skunk in the LA area). Then I was surprised to find the same tropical plant smell in Utah, and thought that was rather odd.

I got a chuckle out of the slightly over bearing husband and surviving a his personal training. You might have the best accomplishment on the blog!

I dare you to go farther than 4 while you have someone to watch the kids! ;)

Sarah, we must make the best of every opportunity to taunt Sasha about this! No actually, we should sympathize. The first time I smelled my husband after a run, I thought it was some horrible freak-of-nature plant too.

Don't tell 'im I said so...

Sarah, I am having a hard time typing in the bio parts. It won't let my click on it. But, I was able to do everything else.

Will is doing great. I know he misses you big time. He enjoys taking the public bus to Campus--no car-seat and tons of people to stare at.

Adrianne

Hi Sarah! Thanks for your support on my 20 miler yesterday. It turned out great, and thankfully I did have people to talk to and distract me. In fact, we probably talked way too much (av. 11 min miles!)

Okay..I'm am so embarrassed...I have to publicly apoligize to my sweet husband. Michael has set the record straight and you guys aren't going to believe it but there is a bush that grows in the west that has a bad smell if you mess with it called...you'll never guess...that's right....a Skunk Bush. If you don't believe me ask Michael who is now the official skunk expert of the website.

Good job! You are speedy!

Good for you! I wish I had someone to run with that would make me push myself a little bit. I think I have it in me but I can talk myself a lot while I'm running and it's only me talking back!!! (He, He)

"talk myself out of a lot"

Sarah, I miss you!! I want to run with you. You sound chipper! Will you send me your email address? I want to send you two web albums I put together over the weekend. Talk to you soon. (My email address is crumpyb1@yahoo.com.)

Too bad we don't live closer to eachother- your distance and pace is a good match with mine on your last couple runs. Thanks for inspiring me- keep it up!

Thanks Christi you are sweet to say so.

I think your quite a speedster! Good for you!!!!

I wish that I had that kinda spring in my step!

A nod is hardly as good as a kiss! I'm such a snot, I think I would get a little squirt gun for moments like that (hee, hee). Great run, though! Lybi's told me a little about you, and I already like you even though I've never met you!!!!!

Great week Sarah! You are a good example to me, I need to up my mileage to 5 a day, been thinking about it for awhile now. That will be my goal for next week!

Some visitors just wear out their welcome! How dare your aunt drop in twice in one month. Wouldn't know it by your running. Great job!

Hey guess what? The house right next to ours just went up for sale...

Holly is looking at it tomorrow. My neighbor across the street told me they will be selling their house too sometime around November. So you could BOTH live right next to me! Ahhhh...a girl can dream, can't she?

I went right over that bridge twice that day. Someone knocked down the tape. There are about 3 missing boards on the bridge. By the way the 10 min mile was what I could do for 1 mile it will be a long time before I am jogging down the trail at that speed for any length of time.

Holy Smoke! I need to start making your recipes if they make you this fast! Great job today!

The snails are different here. Very little shells and more of their slimey bodies are outside of their shells.

yuck

You are AMAZING! 9 minute miles for 5 miles! That's awesome.

I went back and read all of your blogs from this year. It made me smile. I love how you talk about other parts of your life besides running. And I feel really good about how far we've come since February. I know I only ran three today, but I hope to do a long run and a tempo run every week. Only with you could I run the same route again and again. You know me and my need for variety. I am back to making up weird running routes. I miss your company. I feel so slow. There are tons of mini-hills--like the ones under the bridges on our old four mile route.

Seriously, we've come a long way since February. We are wracking up the miles!

I found a 10 mile race. It's at the end of September. I wanted to do a half, but all the ones I have found are on Sunday. I am glad you feel good. Talk to you later.

Love,

Adrianne

Lars just told me I spelled rackin' wrong. Oops.

You are doing so good on your miles! You are a speedster too...who says what a true runner is? I'm hoping it's not defined by time or I'm in trouble!

No...it's not defined by time or speed or anything. A true runner...I think we should all submit poems or essays to be judged by the committee and the best one is posted on the blog under News/Special Announcements...I do think of myself as a true runner. I train everyday, I eat so I can run well, I don't feel good unless I have got my run in for the day, I've run through three pregnancies and I want to run..On the other hand I respect those who have the dedication like our husbands and others on the blog to never stop reaching their limits(I guess we are doing the same thing)....I'd like to know what everyone else thinks about it...

I was just reading your blog yesterday about 5 miles in 45- great job! Maybe I should break down & get a Garmin, sounds like it pushes you to go faster. Nice work!!!!

It can when you put it on the function that beeps every quarter...even me who doesn't like timing myself has fun watching for the next quarter and seeing how fast I went.

10,000 points for today's run!! I am glad the garden is going well. And I definitely have missionary runs. I'll call tomorrow and tell you about them.

Great job, Sarah. These are the runs that show character. I was VERY impressed with your time yesterday BTW.

What do you mean missionary runs, Adrianne? I was just made a ward missionary & I need all the ideas I can get.

Oh I hear ya! I ran a hilly route today and was tired all day. I should have been smart like you and taken a nap! What great kids you have to let you sleep!

Hey I thought Will's name was Willy-Billy-baby-boy! not Willy-baby-boy. You are the only one who can throw "Billy" in there and it not bother me. I hope your run today went well. I will email you the blanket instructions now.

Hey! At least you ran which is more than I can say. Great job getting out there w/ energy to spare. The fast pace will come more & more frequent as you put in your daily 5 milers.

Thank you so much..you've been a constant support to me and I really appreciate it.

Sara,

It's my ten yr. old that would like her own blog. She doesn't do much running and so it would take me going with her, which is great. Just finding the extra time and energy is hard. But I know developing the habits of good health at an early age is very important so I should really put forth the effort! Maybe if she had her own blog it would make ME more accountable to her. By the way what would be a good amount of distance to start out with her? I really don't know what is best for her to keep her motivated and having fun, while estabilshing a routine?

By the way, I'd take 9 minute miles anytime I could get them and be thrilled! You are entitled to a little R&R! (If that's what you call running 5 miles a day and then keeping up with being the mom to five chilren is...keep up the great work!) :)

Thanks for the advice, due to time we only did a half tonight, but we'll try for one tomorrow, she is pretty excitted about the blog so hopefully that keeps her motivated.

I'd be thrilled to run a 9 minute mile for one mile. Ted sets my goals for me(I wonder how on earth that happened) that will probably be my next goal. I sometimes wonder if our husbands really love us so they want us to be as health as possible or if they are trying to kill us. Ha Ha

Hello Sarah -

Thank you so much for your welcome message! I look forward to meeting you soon.

Don't think about the pace -- as hard as it is -- just think about how you feel and how long you are supposed to run that day, and run the pace that allows you to do that. It will pay off, you will feel stronger every day.

I know I was always comparing how slow I am compared to Dean (who is 48 and has been running competitively for 35 years). Now I just get over it and run my own runs. It really helps that he is very supportive of me (despite how slow I am comparitively ;-) ) ... we are all at our own levels!

I hope you have a wonderful Labor Day weekend! Good luck to Benjamin on his race!

Bonnie

Great job and accomplishment of getting 5 miles in each day. Gee 5 miles aday with 5 kids. I guess if you and Sasha have a 6th you will have to up that to 6 miles a day. Keep up the good running

very funny Michael...what about when we have 10...how about I let Sasha do the running and I'll play with the kids all day...

Sarah - that is a huge accomplishment. You definitely have my respect. We have 3 kids and I know how hard it is - My wife goes to school full time in the evenings. It is very challenging to get any running done if I don't go in the mornings. Life is full of challenges and it is very difficult to maintain balance. kudos to you for being able to do so.

Thank you Ryan. I think part of the accomplishment always goes to the spouse though..Sasha is of course very supportive of my running. I know he'll be there for me if I can't push myself through that day.Yes...life is full of challenges...thank goodness we have eachother to share it with....our families and friends. This blog has helped Sasha and I alot. We can't imagine life without it now.

Sarah, it was nice for you to share the personal side of running. Often, we talk of splits, PRs, but not the everyday challenges associated with running and family. Congrads on your returning back to the daily running high.

B of BS Rools out.

It is good to hear that I am not the only one that has a hard time from time to time and can pull them self out of it with shear determination and will power. Great job!

Yes..I think sometimes we have to pull ourselves out with determination and will power but honestly the only thing that really helped me when I was at my ultimate low was to simply realize my relationship with God. I know that can be cliche but it can also be very powerful if you key into that simple and pure power. Thanks Brent Josse and everyone for the uplifting comments...I love this blog and the positive place that it is. I think we are all better people because of it.

Yes I agree, without God I don't think I would have made it this summer.

Have you considered having Sasha push you in a stroller? That way you both get more miles in

Oh man, I'm still laughing from Michael's last comment. Sarah- sounds like you were reaping the benefits of Sasha's winner's high yesterday. Some well deserved family fun time for all of you! Congrats to him- but you know what they say- "behind every great man is an even GREATER woman!"

Oh boy, Michael gets the laugh of the day. Take turns pushing each other. I don't know when the last time Michael pushed even a 2 year old in a baby jogger, a darn lot of work.

Well I think it was Michael that said I should run 6 miles when we have six kids...maybe after six or more kids Sasha will have to push me in the stroller just to get me out of the house!!

Sweet... I am so amazed that Sasha can do anything after running like that.

BTW Sarah, I am so impressed by how well you are handling the 5 miles a day diet.

What race did you run??? That must have been some hike, cookies...hike, cookies....hike. Guess you had to be there to understand!!!

We ran Onion Days. Sasha and I took the kids on the Alpine loop after the run. It was a very short hike and unfortunately I often get blood sugar crashes from cookies so I kind of stay away from them anyway...but I was seriously thinking about starting a line of health food and calling it Mountain Air...maybe I'd just sell the air and save time cooking....

Sarah - I am in awe - I just don't see where you get all of your energy!! Good job on the baby jogger, I got beat in a race by a woman pushing a baby jogger, she was in incredible shape so I am sure it is a good workout!!

Bonnie

Thanks Bonnie. I've actually been in awe of you along....you seem to be very dedicated to the sport and I admire that. I love running with my babies sometimes..they love the fresh air and the ride. Mostly Sasha is protective of my runs and offers to watch the current baby so I am kind of spoiled.

Well, you know that I am super impressed! Was it the double jogger or the single? This is probably a blog record for females running with a jogging stroller. Great job! The Pachevs all seem to be setting records right now. Excellent!

Well guys..not that I don't LOVE the praise and all but my super beloved Adrianne(crumpybl) has us all beat and I think LuLu too.

Sarah, thanks for the compliment. I've been buried in life lately and haven't been too active here. I think of the stroller as adding a strength component to the workout. I certainly used to really feel it in my hamstrings. Now it is not such a big deal anymore. I did do speed work last week in the hills with the stroller I didn't wear a watch. It is getting easier and I think I am getting faster with the stroller. I hope you find it a great time to run with your babies! Congrats on all your five milers!

It is easy for me to be dedicated, I don't have nearly as many pulls on my time. Even though I have a fairly stressful job, Dean and I have very little else to worry about (except the animals and compared to 5 children they are easy!).

I am happy that both you, and Sasha, have such supportive spouses (and children)!!

So have you seen all the stuff on Sasha's blog about getting together at St. George? It won't be the same without you! You must must must come! YAY! I don't mean to pressure you. No wait, I do. : )

Man, I miss you, Sarah! I wish you were here in Iowa to help me figure out what's wrong with me. I really want to talk to you. I am going to call tomorrow

I miss you too Adrianne!!

Lybi: You are too sweet....of course we would love to come to St. George...are you guys bringing the kids...we are debating what we are doing....I'm excited for you to actually meet some people...is Brent going to be there...I know you really wanted to meet him in Provo. Sorry that was a disappointment. I hope St. George makes up for it.

My sweet mother is watching our kids, so we will be footloose and carefree. This whole thing is a mega-date for us (with a little running on the side, I guess). At least that is it from my perspective. To him it is probably a mega-run with a little wife on the side. He he.

This shows great strength that you can do this stroller running. When I lived in Tucson, AZ, it was flat and I sued to run with a stroller, but when I moved to Utah I realized there are hills in every run, which are magnified with a jogging stroller. I haven't jogged with a jogging stoller in Utah because it poops me out!

Thanks again for taking time to talk to me. I appreciate it.

Thanks for calling today! I hope you have a great weekend. How's the organ going? I have only practiced four times since we moved here. I think I will pick a piece to play for our Christmas Eve talent show. We are going to my parents in Ohio for Christmas. The talent show is one of my mother's favorite parts of Christmas. For Lars's talent, he will spin a basketball on his finger. He can spin the ball on all his fingers, even his thumb. Well, I better pick out the piece I'll play and get practicing. You have to prepare in advance for these things. Have a great night, Sarah.

Way to go on the mileage this week! You are racking up the 5 milers! Is Sasha's mom still staying with you? Good job!

Yup...she's still here bless her heart...making oatmeal for the kids every morning while I'm running.

Were you suprised when you got the package? I had a lot of fun going through the cloth. I sent you all of my left-overs. I thought you could use them more than me. So, is it okay if I make your next baby something else besides a texture blanket?

I'll explain crumpyb1 another day. Congratulations on a wonderful 5 mile per day week! By the way, today I am feeling even better.

Way to go Sarah - good dedication for getting those miles in consistently, a tough thing to do being a full time Mommy Im sure

Nice work!.. and the speed will continue to come (you sound fast to me already!) I know what you mean about needing to be cheerful for the kids- its a fine line- grumpy if I don't run- grumpy if I overdo it and tire myself out!

Sarah, great point, once running is back to a habit and part of your daily life, your back. congrads. By the way, 1 mile is a long way, let alone 5 miles a day. We often read of the mega miles on the blog, not least us forget our own daily mile by mile challenges.

Someday you will look back on this blog entry and long for the sweet sounds of that two year old and the sweet honesty of the things they say... maybe even as soon as tommorrow!!!! Good run today!!!

Is there ever a good time for typing??

Cute about your son! What a little genius, already mastering a little guilt trip like that! My 2 year-old would definitely be impressed. He does similar things.

Anything below 10 pace is good. Period. So good job!

Ok, I will, for the rest of the day, giggle about "it's not typing time" -- out of the mouth of babes!!

Have a great day, it is good to have the satisfaction of a great run finished!

Bonnie

I asked Sasha to kindly bring my first aid kit back to me this weekend, and he asked me to comment on your blog so you remind him. Thanks for your help.

In ted's defense(if such a thing is possible) when he went by you and saw you weren't doing well he thought you said something about blisters not blood sugar. So I suppose deafness or total unawareness is his excuse.

It's totally fine...I thought is was funny that he told Sasha that I was mad and Sasha didn't think there was anything strange about that so they both didn't want to mess with me.

Lars has needed the computer to do homework this week, so I didn't know you were having a tough week. I am sorry to hear about your blood sugar crashes. And I don't like dentist stuff either. I hope everything works out with Jenny molar.

Maybe you should leave the watch at home for a while and just run on feel again. I worry about you. You've got a lot on your plate. And I want to be your friend for a very, very long time.

I love your ever optomistic attitude towards everything, I'm hoping to take that "woman" power and translate it into a better run tomorrow!! Thanks for the perspective.

(My other thought is that I've never done any kindof running on 20 something or less legs, I'm just curious how they would recover, I'm guessing faster inspite of the increaed "woman" power)

Wow, great run today!

Hope Jenny's mouth gets better fast. The tooth fairy is sometimes more generous with teeth that come out this way, I'v heard.

Sarah- No problem on staying at my parents house for the marathon. In fact, you will have the house to yourselves (and probably a few other bloggers) because both my parents will be out of town (and there are no kids left at home). My mom is actually moving to China for 2 months and my dad will be at a golf tournament until Sunday night. I think Steve and Ted might be crashing there as well, but there is lots of room so no worries. My mom said it was fine as long as everyone cleans up after themselves and changes the sheets! We are having the blog party there, so if your hands are kid-free, you can help us get the pasta ready! Oh- and Clyde said you may want to stay until Monday, which is fine.

Sarah, Happy Friday! Sunday was my first day to feel good all day. I hope your day went well. I am trying to sew like crazy to finish piecing a denim blanket for my sister-in-law. I am also trying to relax and breathe deeply. Last night I went to bed with an anxious feeling and woke-up with it too. I don't know what it is. I just had a nap and feel better. Maybe I am just tired. Miss you.--Adrianne

I just commented on yesterday's log. Sorry to hear about the headaches and grouchiness. That's no fun.

I am excited that you were able to run with Elizabeth. Did you take Jacob or Joseph or both?

I am thinking about running a 5k in October. What do you think should be my goal?

If there's one thing I know- hormones get worse with age! Good luck getting yours squared away. You seem very healthy and in tune w/ your body so you'll probably figure it out. Enjoy your weekend and get some rest!!!! I'll chat w/ ya next week when I get back from Lake Powell!

All I will say is that I can relate!

Ha!! nice safe comment Lybi...you make me laugh...did I mention we are coming to St. George for sure. I'm so excited to see you

Sorry to hear about the BS crash. This may be inappropriate as I don't know how old your kids are, but are you still breast feeding? That takes a lot of calories and energy. Make sure you are eating enough and your body isn't in "starvation mode." Also, if you are running in the morning before breakfast, your body is hungry from burning calories all night. I almost always have to eat a couple hundred calories before I run. I hope you get some resolution.

It was wonderful to hear from you today! I forgot to ask how Jenny's teeth are doing? Were you able to find a washing machine?

It's weird. I use to think I would throw up if I ate before I ran. The one year I ran track (Seventh grade), I ate a skittle right before my race. I put it in my mouth before the voice in my head said, "Wait! You'll throw-up!" I was quite nervous that I was going to be sick during and after my mile race. I think it was that night or even the next day when I realized I hadn't thrown-up. However, I still avoided eating before I ran. The summer before my freshman year of college, I would roll out of bed, run two miles as fast as I could--without warming-up and stretch a little after and then eat breakfast. It wasn't until the first year I was married that if I ate a small amount, I wouldn't throw up. These days I eat two breakfasts. A small one at 6:30/6:45 and then another more normal size about 9/9:30. I don't know how my story of breakfasts will help you, but that's what I do.

Do I need to go to a Health Food store to pick up the kind of oats you eat for breakfast in the morning? I'd like to try them.

I hope you have had a wonderful day.

Yay! Come to my house! You guys really should come down here sometime and womp all over some of these races down here. I think people must be slower in AZ than Utah, based on the times I always see. Plus, if you come down, you can help me get kick started with improving my diet. We'll go to health food stores, and sew a little bit, and sing and play piano-and watch Pride and Prejudice far too many times.

I think that I remember hearing you say that you ran out of your prescription for thyroid medication. Is that related? Have you been to the Dr.? Other things that are good for blood sugar: cinnamon, chromium (usually chromium picolinate), eating every 2 1/2 hours at least, eating a little bit of protein with each meal...Road trips to Arizona.

I wish I new the anwser to your blood sugar problems, but I think Lybi is right you should probably see your doctor. What I have found is that what works for one person usually doesn't work for another, I was haveing crashes like yours but mine was due to over stressed adrienales ( no suprise). If you have thyriod problems that could be your culpret or maybe it's just stress, life and haveing 5 kids. I find the older we get the more problems arise, but they are all fixalbe its just a matter of getting to the root of the problem. Hope you figure it out.

josse

If you are watching Pride and Prejudice (any version...I own 3 different versions myself) then count me in! ;)

Hi, Sarah! Have you tried keeping track of what you eat for a few days (I know it's a huge pain:P)? It will help if you go to the Dr (I recommend a Naturopath), because they'll probably ask you WHAT you've been eating. lol Have you been to vegsource.com? They have support groups of all different kinds (including one for nursing -- are you still? I am). Are you taking a B12 supplement? I read a lot of the die-hard, whole food people on there talking about conceding that that was the only supplement they really felt they needed as vegetarians.

Thanks for the advice everyone...I think the best thing we could probably all do is get together for a huge Pride and Predjudice feast. Too bad we won't have time the weekend of St. George but Conference is even better than Pride and Predjudice anyway...You guys are great.

Hey- good job doing 5 even though Sasha's mom is gone!

I feel silly. I can't remember your 5k prediction for me. Will you please tell me what it was again? Please?

I talked all about Chirstmas on my blog today. I am very excited for Christmas this year.

Lars went to buy a backpack and took Will with him. The zipper broke on his backpack and the books kept falling out.

Sarah, have you ever thought of reading Twilight? I hope you had a good day.

I looked at the discussion forum and it's a little intimidating to me. I'll continue to check it out, but I think I'll stick to my blog.

Thanks for the 5k prediction. I am going to do a trail mile run on Saturday. I haven't tried one since the Wednesday in February when we both ran 7:33. Do you remember the confusion we had over 10 meters?

I miss you tons. 'Hope you are having a great day.

Adrianne:

Why is it intimidating?

Hi Sarah,

It was great to see you this morning! You know, the whole reason I am running a marathon this year is because in the spring I wanted to have a baby but my husband wasn't ready. So I decided I would bear a marathon and have an October 6th due date! I feel inadequate to have more kids, which is a trial of its own in a Mormon community: what kind of woman are you if you can only handle three kids? My best friend, who is not a runner at all, has had miscarriage after miscarriage. I think we all get our unique trials and don't need to knock our own or be overly fearful of ones to come. Just enjoy the little ones you have! How old is your youngest anyway? Give him a kiss on the cheek for me! I am baby hungry too!

Sarah,

I have been catching up with your blog after not being able to read blogs much lately. I hope your thoughts were just passing thoughts. Of course, I understand baby hunger (took me 8 years and extreme science to have Bubbles) and miscarriage. Love on your kids, and remember that God gives us exactly what we can handle. Take good care of yourself.

I am not happy about our Sundays in my own home at the moment. Jeremy says he thinks Gospel instruction only needs to happen during Family Home Evening and that bothers me so much that I feel paralyzed! 'Like there's such a thing as thinking about the Lord TOO much! I wouldn't want to go to too much trouble for Someone who made the world and everything in it for me and then died for me! I worry this reluctance to discuss the Gospel much will make our children even more that way, so that soon they'll get "overloaded" if they hear too much spiritual information at once. It's not what I thought my family with Jeremy would be like at all. He loves to learn and teach about the Gospel! He has five little sponges who instead run around like misbehaving toddlers after church on the Sabbath day, growing dull and more acclimatized to the flat colors and words of the world every day. Ok, now I'm getting upset. laf I already know what my answer is: I need to stop thinking about what I hoped Jeremy would do and do it myself. I need to take a book about a Bible story from the closet, or a Friend magazine, sit down w/ a child or two (maybe more will circle 'round) and show them my own excitement and teach. I need to share my own enthusiasm and love for the Lord and His teachings. They will catch it if I am consistent, and so will Jeremy. I think many of us go through periods when we think we don't have time or don't really NEED to read the Scriptures, but as a parent, I feel I can't afford to make excuses for myself about this. My family suffers from my shrunken soul. After the lesson yesterday in church from General Conference about procrastination (an awesome article, by the way, by Henry B. Eyring called "This Day"), my excuses are not good enough and I'm recommitted to reading every morning.

I don't know if that helps, but those are my thoughts about improving Sunday in my own home.

We just try to spend the time together as a family---we go on walks, play games at home (church related, of course), and so on. The hardest one would be the teenager, but the 4 little ones just love that for one day, after all of the callings are done, we are together (my husband is in school, so he is never home at night). We cook dinner together, read together, just be together.

On Sundays, I always liked it when my dad interviewed me. He'd ask me questions like what was my favorite food, what I wanted to be when I grew up, what I liked best about our family, etc. My brothers, sisters, and I were interviewed one at a time. I don't know if that would be possible. But, you could have a jar of questions and have your kids take turns answering.

You could write down their answers, too.

Memorizing scriptures is fun. And you can make it into a game or Make-up your own sign language to remember the words. (That's what my family did.)

You could also to put together a scripture story play. And invite a neighbor or one of the single sisters over for your audience.

Just a few thoughts. 'Hope they help.

Sarah- I appreciated your Sabbath question. I like "Crumpy's" idea of interviewing kids, they love to talk about themselves. At bedtime on Sunday's for our spiritual thought I have my kids tell about what they learned in Primary. It always reminds me of lessons I'd forgotten and the kids like to talk. We usually take a Sunday walk. I also try to get my kids to write letters to grandparents, great grandparents & relatives that are far away. Good luck!

My kids often breathe a lot faster when they get a fever. I usually do end up taking them to the Dr. and they always say he's fine, but then one time I took Samuel in with the same symptoms, and he ended up being hospitalized for pneumonia! So it can be scary. Man, I'm sorry! Hope he gets better soon.

BTW, have I told you HOW HAPPY I am that you are coming to St. George!?! This is going to be great. If you want, tell your kids that are learning piano to practice their best song, bring the music and I'll give them each a little mini-lesson. I love to have my students play for other piano teachers. They practice like crazy.

How cool that you have a new running partner! She is lucky to be able to run with you--you have some great funny stories! Two measly runs with you and she's done for! You're not allowed to be devastated when you loose a running partner unless you've run with her at least 3 times. Just kidding. Hope her knee is OK!

I hope Amanda's knee is okay.

Tomorrow I teach my first lesson in Primary in three years. I am excited. The lesson is on the Pentacost and how the apostles recieved the gift of the holy ghost.

Hey Sarah, when are you guys getting into St. George? I want to go to the expo around 1 pm. Will you be able to go then? Hope everyone over at the Pachev Running Palace recovers quickly from this nasty recent bug!

You are one early riser.

Guess what? My neighbor, Jade, and I are going to start a New Testament study group. We are going to read Matthew 1-6 and discuss it next Tuesday. It should be interesting. I imagine I will learn a lot through reading and from her faith.

sarah- i'm all for the early rising- it makes or breaks my day. i have to get a head start on the kids. just remember to get in bed early (unlike me....) can't wait to meet you this weekend!

So is Mary number six? and William number seven? What will they look like? Red, blonde, or brown hair? Blue, green, brown, or Sarah green eyes? Spaced front teeth or no space?

Sarah - I think you owe 0.3 miles more for running, as you have 5 kids not 4.7

Glad you are feeling great on life - good attitude to have

Sarah, are you coming to St. George to watch Sasha? If I see you with Sasha after the race, me and Sylvia will come and say hi.

Brent - everybody is coming. Sarah just said to me - Lybi has 23 comments in her blog, I never get that many. Let's give her at least 23 comments on this one. 2 so far.

Sarah- what are your plans for Friday? When are you planning to be here? We need to figure out how we are gonna hook up so we can get you into my parents house. Unless you are just planning to be there for the pasta party? If you are going to be there earlier, we need a plan! :)

I am glad the whole family will be at the race. It will be one to remember! See you soon!

By the way...Lybi only gets a million comments because she is crazy! jk Lybi...but she has befriended everyone on the blog! And she is related to half the people on the blog!

Can't wait to meet the Pachev family in St. George. I'll be bringing my 10 year old daughter to the dinner party so I'm glad that your kids will be there. Hopefully they can play together or something! Other than that I haven't heard of many children involved.

I know why Lybi gets so many comments....she is the official blog cheerleader and everybody loves her. I can't wait to meet all of you...thanks for the comments.

Brent-I can't wait to finally meet you and of course your better half!!

Mik'L I think we are going to leave Provo around 12 so we are going to get into St. George about 4 and probably go to the expo first. I'm sure you'll probably already be at your parents house by the time we make it there...hopefully I'll be some help when we get there. Our cell phone numbers are 372-0470 and 472-7541 (his and hers) thanks again for letting us stay there. It is very kind of your family.

Michelle-my kids will LOVE to play with your kiddo. My 7 year old girl especially loves 10 year old girls. For some reason all of her best friends are 10.

Sasha-Thanks for trying to get me 23 comments. Maybe if I posted on more people's blogs I'd get more comments or if I recruited a million people to the blog...it was sweet..thanks.

Glad to hear you are coming to St. George and the Pasta party. Running spouses are so cool. 23 comments, it is like talking on a cell phone, some people can talk all day, others, two words and off the phone.

Sara I'm glad that your daughter will enjoy playing with Callzee. Some of her best friends are younger too! Our neighbor across the street has a 12 yr old daughter that she plays with and a 6 yr old daughter. If one can't play she plays with the other. If both can't play and they have a son that is four days younger than her that she plays with. So pretty much with one family they fill all her requirements. It's tough when they go out of town though!

Good job, Sarah! It is so awesome that you are getting up early. That has been my goal for such a long time, but I was never able to do it until I became a runner. The catch is that you have to go to bed earlier too. (Darn!) My kids like the new schedule a lot better, too. Good job to little Joseph! Every milestone a success. I'm looking forward to seeing you TOMORROW!!!!

Sarah- It was so great to meet you & your family Friday night. You guys have a wonderful, strong family. Benjamin (I think he's the one close to my 9 yr. old's age?) was so cute running around with my Toby that night. Have a relaxing conference Sunday- chat soon...

It was good to see you! I'm glad you came and hopefully we will see you again soon!

Sarah, me and Sylvia really enjoyed meeting you. Hopefully, see you again next year, maybe you will be running the marathon?

Sarah, Great to finally meet you! I enjoyed talking to you and meeting your family. McCall had fun playing with your kids too! The party was a lot of fun, hope to see you again sometime.

I got pretty tired from just watching the marathon...although I WAS jumping up and down for half the time. I get the award for "Most Likely to Fall Out of the Bleachers While Watching a Marathon".

Today feels like the day right after Christmas--kind of a natural let-down after all the excitement.

I thought we'd get "Most likely to break the bleachers" award

Glad you had a good time. Give your husband many big hugs - he sounds like he ran his heart out and inspires all

Thanks Michael...Sasha is inspiring and I did give him many hugs (and kisses) after the marathon and tried to buoy him up.

You are one consistent wonderwoman! Way to get in the 5 miles again today! I'm with Lybi- kinda have the day after Christmas feeling. Can't wait for the next race get-together!

But I didn't run a marathon this weekend either....Although I'm sure we would have had a blast together....maybe next year if it's between babies(hard to know with us..we want a million).

I think after my one and only marathon(partly because we happened to go to Nauvoo that next week) I didn't run at all but I don't remember missing it either.

A quick story I wanted to share. Thanks again for talking to me today.

Today was my first Bible Study with Jade; it was wonderful. We read Matthew 1-6 before hand and then today we Shared our thoughts and feelings. It was awesome. For example, we talked about Peter walking on the water and how Christ was there in front of him and still Peter doubted. I briefly talked about Laman and Lemuel and how they were visited by angels and they still rebelled from God. And then I mentioned President Eyring's talk and how he looked for God's hand in each day of his life. And by looking for God's hand, President Eyring's faith and gratitude in God grew. So then I wondered out loud to Jade, if I was like Peter. Heavenly Father is all around me, to give me the faith to "walk on water," but I am distracted by the wind. "Oh ye of little faith!" I need to talk more time to see God's blessings and show Him gratitude.

Another big moment for me was in Matthew 1. Joseph is about to divorce Mary and in the verse is the word, "thought." Joseph was thinking and pondering his situation when he had his dream about Mary giving birth to a baby and they should call his name Jesus. Joseph was doing what President Hinckley has told us to do--think and ponder. Jade pointed out in chapter 2 all the references to prophecies about Christ and what a responsibility Joseph had to take care of his family. She went on to talk about how Joseph was led by dreams and how the dreams helped fulfill more prophecies (like how Jesus would be a Nazarine). And it hit me again! There is no way Joseph could have all this personal revelation without studying, thinking, and praying. Joseph is a great example to me of how to receive personal revelation.

Our next bible study group will be next Thursday at 3pm. We are going to read Matthew 7-12. I talked to Jade and she said it was fine if I invited, Mary Lynn. She is the wife of another MBA student and Lars's friend, Shawn or Sean. We had them over for dinner on Sunday. My guess is Mary Lynn is non-denominational like Jade. We'll see. Like Jade and I, Mary Lynn is new to Iowa City.

Wow, Sarah! You were brave yesterday. Very brave. I can imagine how nervous you were just from the other stories you told me. And I can see your kids having a blast. You guys take awesome field trips. I hope today is very relaxing and uneventful for you.

Yes..I was nervous but we survived..I think maybe we aren't a hiking family...we all decided we'd rather run a tough race close to mother earth any day.

I just read stacy's blog. She was commenting on how wonderful it is to run with someone and I thought of you. I miss you! Have a wonderful Sunday.

If that's how you get pregnant, I'm keeping my runs short! But good luck to you!

I am with Kim. But I really admire you wrestling 5! Good luck.

It's in reference to a joke here on the blog that since I have five kids I run five miles..every day (as you'll soon notice....I'm not very creative or brave in that...just do my five and hope to make it through the day.:)

Cody told me what the joke was about, I still think you are brave to care for 5. You must be a super mom!

Are you really increasing your mileage to six miles? good luck! Some day I will make that!

Another awesome field trip! Did Jakey-Baby like it? I am sorry I missed your call. I'll call you tomorrow.

Yes...Jakey, Joseph, Julia, Benjamin and Jenny all loved it. Joseph and I talked about the planets and the stars on the ceiling of the planetarium before he went down for his nap today. I love taking him places especially because he gets so excited. Did I tell you about taking him on the bus and how so super excited he was(Jakey baby stayed home)

Another fun thing we've been doing is I have the kids count off to make sure everyone is there. (benjamin says one, Jenny two and so forth). The absolute cutest is Jakey of course when he says, "Tschio" (or something to that effect...meaning "FIVE"! And of course he is sooo proud of himself for saying it it's just to die for. talk to ya later

Sarah, you are a really great mom!! You are always doing the greatest things with your kids!!! Not to mention kickin' it in the running dept.!!!

I agree with Michelle and I love your family picture BTW.

Yeah for you, Sarah!! That is do awesome.

I meant so awesome, really.

Excellent Sarah! That is smokin'! Hope the rest of your day went well. I know exactly what you mean about the whole quandry of trying to parent on low E.

Great job! Trying to balance life is hard. But cut yourself some slack and run tempo run once in a while. It really sound like you enjoy them.

Awesome Job Sarah! I was going to tell you to forget the laundry (in celebration of your excellent run today), but then I realized that with your sized family (and all those males) you probably would get over-run with dirty laundry pretty quickly if you did ;-).

Bonnie

I bought new laundry soap in honor of my fast run today..a little bit more expensive but it makes me happy to use it!! :)

Let's hear it for little things like fancy laundry soap and fast tempo runs! I am so proud of you. I know it took a lot of courage to try a tempo run again. Congratulations! You were super fast! And you can tell Benjamin that I said so. Not a lot of people can break 16 minutes when running two miles.

Sarah, it was soooo good to talk to you today. How did the salsa go? I am so glad my tomatoes can help you out.

Excellent! Tempo runs can be very daunting (I haven't done one in MONTHS). You should be very proud of your time.

Making salsa sounds fun. I can make a mean guacamole!

Nice work Sarah! Yes, I agree- fine line between runs giving you energy or draining you of energy. I'm always looking for that balance. You've motivated me with your speedwork today. I'm off to the track to do speedwork in the am (first time in months)- we'll see how it goes!

Good for you! However, Hubby might put a stop to these tempo runs if it makes you buy more expensive things;-)!

I am so glad that you had such a good day and still felt up to all the challenges of motherhood ect. You are much stronger than you give yourself credit for!!! You probably do more in a day than I do in most weeks. I think you run your own private marathon nearly daily! Thanks for the lovely example you are and keep up the good work :)

You are my hero! I'm still struggling with energy to do it all every day. You are awesome!

I need to qualify this...I don't always have the energy to do it all every day...but when I do I am so grateful...thanks for the positive comments..you guys are good friends.

You made it! You are back in the best shape of your LIFE! And you did it after having five kids. Wow.

I hope tomorrow goes well, too.

So now it's time for Mary and William to come. They can be twins! (Was Mary one of your names? I can't remember. I was scrolling back through your blogs to find were you mentioned baby names. Maybe we taked about it on my blog.)

Forgive me for being dense, but are you pregnant with twins? Congratulations! And, your dedication to your family and running is very inspiring!

Being dense is totally allowed on my blog space anyway...I think it's adorable that you thought I could run and be pregnant with twins....I'm just thinking about getting pregnant and since it didn't happen right away now I'm obessing over it a bit too much.

Silly me! I have never been pregnant, so I don't know what I'm talking about. I did see that you have continued to run during pregnancies, but pregnant with twins would probably be a whole different story! Now, looking back at the comments, it all makes sense.

Anyway, I am so impressed at your energy level! I don't have that much energy, and it's just me and my husband!

What a great mom you are- taking your kids to the "coolest" park! Smart too- maybe they wore themselves out while you got to sit a bit? Does Becky have kids? Does she homeschool too?

Good job on the miles! What play did you go see and where?

BTW, check out Paul's blog today and see yourself in the background of the pic!

We must be frozen feet sisters.

Today I was thinking about what good times we had driving to, waiting for, and driving from races this year. Bad luck head bands, Good luck head bands, meeting Jeannie at the restrooms, singing with Joseph in the van, me thinking your van clock was an hour slow, telling you to park five miles away from the starting line, and I hope we have more. Even if it has to be a 10k in heaven! I look forward to participating in races with you. Hope you have a great Sunday. Love, Adrianne

How did your family council go? Our FHE lesson was about the story of Noah. We acted out six different animals. Will loved it. He thought his dad was chasing him, but Lars was just a wonderful animal impersonator. I especially liked his snake. After Lars and I acted out our six animals, Will "took the floor." He turned in circles, growled, and mooed.

I wish I had been there...that is so adorable!! We didn't have a full blown family council but we introduced the idea and talked about how it should be a positive problem solving session. The kids were so excited. I'm excited because I think that it will help me and all of us stop complaining and start talking to each other in positive ways...yay for the gospel and inspired brethren. I'm so thankful.

Sarah, could not figure out how to enter her goals etc. in helping Sylvie set up her blog. Any ideas? Maybe something wrong at my end. We have two computers, could not enter from either. I expect Sylvie will post after her run tomorrow. I like, if you don't have a solution, not a problem. It is interesting how one run can be a tough foot in the mud run and the next one a breeze. If anyone ever discovers the secret? that would be something.

Fun!

About getting so lost in your run (with your partner) you forget where you are and how far you have gone: That happened to me last night and today. I forgot to blog it, because I really didn't know exactly where I was in my run last night (dark and stormy) and loved it. This morning, I was just ssssooo in the zone. I think that is one of the things that makes running fun! I got knocked out of my zone by a big gust of wind.

So I assume you ran the 5 miles in 26:40 (so you could meet Sasha's 5:20 dream)

Wait a minute...I thought Sasha's dream was 5:50 pace...not 5:20...HELP!!! 5:50 was fast enough. If he's lucky maybe someday I'll consent to trying to run at 6:50 pace. I did run a 6:52 mile. once but that's it. ...once

I just think it's cute that that is what he dreams about! I haven't quite had a running dream yet, unless you count the ones where you can't run away from the bad guy or you just run in slow motion.

A little off the subject, but I couldn't help noticing that you homeschool your kids. Good for you. We did that with our daughter for 1st and 2nd grade, as she was bored at public school for the first couple months of 1st grade. It worked out great, both for her and our pre-school aged son. We have her back in public school now for 3rd grade (her choice), but we are still supportive of home schooling.

BTW- Geography was (and still is) her favorite subject. It's crazy how many kids in high school don't know their geography basics. It sounds like your kids are getting a great (and fun) education.

Thanks craig...I appreciate the support. Sasha is the homeschooling fanatic and I'm trying it on for size...for a long time looks like...the kids won't let me put them in public school now and it's working out well for our family.

For a good reason, too, Sarah! Who'd want to go back to public school with fun lessons like that!!! I love hearing about great home schooling moments. I hope to be able to homeschool our children too (except for my oldest who has special needs - she does well with the structure of public school. Home school is happily less structured - timewise.)

Oops, I forgot this to mention running! lol

Great job on your run today. I love it that you "lost track of the miles." I hope to get to that point where I can just keep running and forget that I'm inflicting pain (hee,hee).

It was great to meet you, too. And your kids - they're so fun.

Well- you know I'm only doing 6 'cause your hubby told me to! Ha! Really, I'm glad he did. I'm just trying to run an hour a day (which usually turns out to be about 6) then I don't get too overwhelmed thinking of all the miles I have to get in. I hear you about being tired. I think the best remedy is SLEEP! Catch a nap or get in bed earlier if you can. Oranges are good right now as far as fruit goes. Have a great day!

I agree with you about the fruit. Citrus is picked in North America in the winter, so it is the best for winter consumption. Fall is also a great time for apples. Late season tomatoes (yes, they are a fruit) are still available as most growers plant a second crop after the heat of the summer. Although not a fruit, sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and are being harvested as I write this. Of course, you can get grapes, bananas and mangos other fruits right now because they come from South America. However, the pesticides they use are a big issue for me.

BTW, Sarah, do you make your own baby food? I make about 75% of what Bubbles eats. I thought if you do, we could exchange some ideas.

Sarah, thanks, I will have Sylvia ask Sasha for help. I am with you are the winter time running, hard to get some pep in the step at times.

Good job, Sarah! Last night I had a dream that should give you some small measure of revenge for Sasha's 5:50 dream about you. I dreamed he was a concert pianist! He he he. Be sure to tease him about it--in your sweet way, of course. :)

That's cool about the apples! Do you make applesauce? I looove dried apples, too.

5 is a lot! oh my gracious it's a lot! and all so cute too!

Sarah, the mental side of tempo runs is always a challenge. It seems you have the drive to make it happen. Good running.

Another wonderful week of 5 mile runs AND a tempo run! You did it again.

I didn't realize what a relaxing organ month you've had. I know your kids will be cute and smart in the program tomorrow. Give them some adoring smiles for me!

Thanks ol girl...I was just thinking before I read your comment...I miss Adrianne...and there you were. I'm a little bit nervous about what Julia will do. Reports are in and it is rumored that she spent most of the practice hiding under a bench....don't know what happened...I'll have to make sure she's okay. give my baby a kiss...

Good job getting in that extra .10- anything over 5 is a VERY good day for me! You are an amazing MOM! Jenny's honesty & healthy self esteeem sound perfectly normal for a young girl. Our Sunday was rough yesterday- kids were at eachother's throats after the sacarament primary program then having to sit in primary for another 2 yrs. They were bickering a lot after church. I found a nice Sunday evening walk really helped- they needed fresh air!

Every little bit count I always record the .01. Halloween plans sound fun!

Yummy!

I am sure your carmel apples will be delicious! How was the Primary Program? Did Julia hide under the bench again?

Please share the carmel apple recipe. Yum!

Congratulations on the tempo. Based on my 3 months on this blog, in a while (unless you become, er, with child) you will be writing about flying through a two mile tempo like it is nothing. Then it will go to three...

Oh yeah and life has been crazy since we started the homemade baby food discussion. I buy all kinds of veggies and steam them when I make dinner, let them cool and put them in ice cube trays. Then I transfer them to zippered bags.

Of course now that she's older we feed her off our plates. However, I eat a LOT of salad. It is going to be a long time before she eats that! She just now has two teeth coming in.

You sound like a wonderful mom and person. I think I will get use to the tempo runs in a couple of weeks and yes...maybe I will try for three...hadn't thought about it but sounds like a good next step...thanks for the idea.

I love the idea of steaming veggies while you are cooking dinner...maybe I'll try that with the next bambino. I used to make a lot of sweet potatoes that way for my third baby Julia. She wasn't a big food baby..kind of liked nursing until she was one and then finally branched out into a more solid diet. Joseph, my fourth was opposite. He demanded to eat EVERYTHING that we were eating from the time he was five months old and old enough to understand the connections between fork, plate and mouth. He was HILARIOUS. That's when out of desperation I figured out that mashing up the baby friendly meals we were having like lentil soup, chicken and rice...etc worked well for him. My fifth was more normal in that he didn't want real meals until about 9 months and was happy to eat baby food for awhile ....until he tasted mama's cooking.

For the caramel apples I tried crystallized fructose in place of normal sugar in a caramel sauce recipe I found online but I also found a recipe using honey and think that I'll try that one instead next time because the fructose didn't stick to the apples...it was delicious however and my kids loved them.

have a good day.