Melissa's Road Race 2014

This has become one of my favourite traditions.

A weekend in the mountains with a little {albeit slightly painful} run, delightful right?

Yep, it doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

 Except maybe this.

We had the privilege of sharing a condo with this beautiful girl and her parents.

{Summer Recap 4 1/2: Welcome Olivia!}

 Our group was a little smaller this year.

Life events and such.

{Jenna was 2 1/2 months postpartum so definitely deserved a pass.}

 We ran into my friend Elena at the end of the race and I introduced her to my Dad.

She asked if he is the reason I run and, you know, I hadn't really thought much about it.

But of course he is.

I had immediate flashbacks in that moment to being 10 and jogging with Dad.

I hated it of course {I think that was right around the beginning of my sloth phase} and remember him being much more fit than I.

I am thankful now that he set that example for me since it obviously stuck.

I hope that each time the kids cheer us on it's sticking with them too.

 We finished off the day with a lot of relaxing, hydrating, eating and just a little booze.

{We've learned our lesson and do not overindulge after the race anymore.}

The next morning we were treated to a gang of elk just outside our Canmore condo.

{I know, I thought it was a herd too but nope, the correct term for a group of elk is a gang.  There we go learning again right?}

Then after a lazy morning with our own gang {see what I did there?} we headed out to the streets of Canmore.

 Managed to stop in one bookstore.

 Then it hit Jeff, we're not quite sure what but he was in no state to be out and about.

I'm glad we didn't push it because he was in bad shape by the time we got home.

In lieu of our little walk about town I took a bit of a scenic route home and let the family sleep while I stopped for pictures now and again.

 I just love this time of year and in the mountains it's something else.

I'm already looking forward to next year.

Color Me Rad YEG 2014

It kills me to write colour without the u but that's the name of the event so I'm sucking it up.

You know how I said I had 10 pictures on my iPhone, well here are 4 of them.

Track and Shield hit the pavement for the Color Me Rad 5K for the first time and it was a blast.

Literally.

Throughout this race you get blasted with coloured powder at stations that look like this.

No chance of missing them, that's for sure.

 The kids were timid at first and stayed in the chariot {which I'm still rinsing colour out of}.

Once we saw the pink station though Fiona was ready to get blasted and little brother followed suit of course.

{Don't worry I gave her my sunglasses to wear during the blasting.}

 We will definitely do this run again. 

I use the term "run" loosely as it was more like a saunter.

They're hosted in cities all over North America so I would highly recommend finding one close to home.

Oh, and wear cotton.

The colour washes out of it much easier than sport fabric.

I am now the proud owner of a lovely light purple sports bra.

Track and Shield is Back for Another Season

My involvement with the shop is somewhat limited.

I do our bookkeeping from my home office and rarely go to the shop with the kids.

It's still a novelty for them to go in but I know that would quickly change if they had to hang out there more often.

It's not exactly a children's paradise with one toy and a single baby book.

Cedric much prefers to terrorize the filing cabinets, debit machine and phone.

In fact, he remains the only one who can change the language and turn the answering machine off.

Needless to say, I don't have a lot of contact with our employees even when I do manage to pop in.

It is so important to me, therefore, to have opportunities to feel like a part of the team.

Track and Shield was just that for me.

Last year we may have overdone it.

We registered the team for 6 races and also did Melissa's Road Race in Banff in the fall.

I loved each and every one but by the end of the summer our team was pretty sparse.

The owners may do as many this year with more of a focus on just a few for the staff who are willing to play along.

We have chosen our first two races for 2014.

We will skip April and start with The Mother's Day Walk/Run in May.

This is a really chill and fun event.

Last year we topped it off with a picnic to make it my best Mother's Day yet.

{No pressure for this Mother's Day of course.}

If you'd like to join our team drop me a line and I'll give you the sign up info.

We have also registered for Color Me Rad.

We were slated to do the Calgary race last year before the flooding forced them to cancel.

I have heard nothing but great things about this run so am excited to participate this year.

I mean, how insane does this look?

Luckily Chloe was on the ball and alerted us all that the race was open since it's already sold out.

There is still a waiting list if you missed it and are interested.

I have started outdoor running of course but haven't taken it too seriously yet.

I love getting into race season since I'm much more motivated to get on the trails.

Even the snow today {sorry about that} can't dampen my spirits.

Melissa's 2013

Another fabulous run in the mountains this year.

We added a few to our group, including Jeff! 

{Were you all aware that hell froze over?}

Well, frozen we were since the temperature had dropped significantly compared to last year.

I had a Mama guilt moment as I watched children in snowsuits walk by my two dressed as shown below.

They're hearty though and, thanks to Gram and our friend Steve, took a trip to McDonald's to warm up during the run.

After cheering us on a little first and snapping this shot, that is.

{Thanks for the photos Mom.}

 There really isn't a better road race than Melissa's.

You start the run down the main street of the gorgeous mountain town of Banff.

 And what would a mountain run be without a mountain right?

We certainly got one, from about kilometers 2 to 4.5 actually.

The consolation being that after this you get a whole lot of downhill.

I was so glad to run with my Dad this year and hope to make it a tradition.

Has the pain of the mountain worn off enough to commit Dad?

 I was ecstatic with my time as I beat my personal goal by a whole minute.

As proud as I was of myself, it paled in comparison to my pride in this guy.

The husband ran 10 kilometres and lived to tell about it.

What seemed like an impossibility just a couple months ago was accomplished.

His stubbornness determination floored me but I really shouldn't be surprised.

Jeff can do anything he sets his mind to.

He has completely transformed himself physically in the last 7 months.

In doing so he has also vastly improved the life of our family.

His energy, capabilities and confidence have skyrocketed.

I think the main difference is that, though we've always known how great he is, he's actually starting to believe it.

Climb of Hope 2013

I never thought I would hear Jeff utter the words "fun" and "run" in the same sentence.

Well folks it happened.

I know, socks knocked thoroughly off.

This event was so well run that we have already signed up for next year.

Sure, there has been an abnormal amount of cursing in our stairwell the last couple of days.

Jeff may or may not be soaking in scalding hot water to ease the calf pain.

And a pointed foot is no small feat {ha!} today. 

All thanks to the name of this game: Stairs.

Hence the "climb" of course.

The true test were these dreaded Hotel Mac Stairs near the end of this 5.5K.

Luckily it was as beautiful a run as it was tough.

Set in the amazing Edmonton River Valley.

We didn't get a team pic but I did capture the rest of the team crossing the finish line.

I promise Chloe was running right up to the end despite her nonchalant composure.

Obviously we were all there for the run and the cause.

But I'm pretty sure no one was complaining about the Starbucks coffee and Hudson's burgers.

Team Track and Shield is 2 members strong for September 2014 and recruiting.

Track and Shield in September

Track and Shield took a little break for August.

Because...well...August was busy.

We're back though and ready to rock.

Literally.

Our next race is the Climb of Hope in support of the Cross Cancer Institute.

Looking through past pics it seems as though some runners go all out with the rock theme.

I've never been that girl who wins ALL the costume contests.
To be honest, costume parties stress. me. out.

I'm envious of those who always think of the-most-witty-get-up-you-ever-did-see.

Like this Mom.

I'll see what I can do for this event but am making no promises.

You want to know what else stresses me out?
The promise of many stairs on this run {hence the "climb of hope"}.
Regardless, it's a great cause so we're happy to be involved.
I so appreciate everyone who has donated to our many causes this summer.
{I'd just like to brag again about the fact that I have the best friends and family.}
If you have the means and would like to donate this month it would be much appreciated {yet again}.
Cheryl's Climb of Hope Page
 You're all also more than welcome to submit yourself to punishment with us join our team.

Track and Shield in July

This one snuck up on me.

I didn't even get a chance to tell you about our July leisurely stroll race.

We also didn't get a chance to organize our team so it was just owners representing at this one.

No Jeff in the photo since he sat this one out.

Chloe suggested we participate in Pets in the Park in support of the Edmonton Humane Society. 

We were all on board but decided to stick to the 2.5K walk this time.

 On account of the length {or lack thereof} of our dogs' legs, you see.

You also won't spot Fiona, who was enjoying a sleepover at Gram and Grandpa's. 

Probably better that way since you really need to have a love on for all sizes of dogs to enjoy this event.

It may have been slightly overwhelming for our cautious toddler.

Cedric, however, loved all the dogs as well as the lone bird {pictured below}.

It was a hot day and it seemed like the dogs would have traded all 4 legs for some shade.

Luckily the walk route was lined with water stations complete with dog bowls full of the stuff.

Auntie Brie and Uncle Tim were also there with Cedric's best friend Halle {the boxer}.

This was a great event for a great cause and you can count on us being back.

Father's Day {Finally}

I wanted to post about our Father's Day on Monday.

Then I started a new job and all my plans seemed to just fade away.

I'm catching up though and we will quickly adapt to our new routine like we always do.

I already told you that we were starting our Sunday with the Father's Day Run/Walk in support of Prostate Cancer Canada.

It was a great event with endless food, drinks and entertainment.

Not only were we equipped with t-shirts, but also got capes.

Seriously you guys, capes!

The kids were {of course} the cutest but Jay and Ethan also rocked this superhero garb.

We had 6 Dads on team Track and Shield.

Happy Father's Day again to Jeff, Jay, Bruce {aka Dad}, Brian {aka The Old Man}, Brian and Gabe.

Thanks Julie and Jacques for joining us with your Father.

 I almost managed to keep up with Dad this time.

Here we are waiting to get going in our Father/Daughter matching shoes {not intentional}.

The route was beautiful, being mostly along the river.

We just popped up to the Whitemud once and Dad remarked how fitting it was that we should run by the infamous silver "balls" given the cause. 

  Before and after love for my Dad who is one of my greatest inspirations.

Love you Dad.

 And who wouldn't love greeting this at the finish line?

 To complete our celebration we had a family BBQ {indoor on account of the rain}.

Then we made Daddy's favourite cookies while he did something really rare.

Had an uninterrupted nap.

Jeff, you have always been a great husband but nothing has made me love you more than seeing the amazing Father you've become.

One of my favourite parts of the day is watching Fiona and Cedric's faces light up as you walk in the door.

We love you.

Track and Shield in June

I almost forgot to mention this one.

We have decided to do the Father's Day Run and Walk on, you guessed it, Father's Day.

This is an important one to us since proceeds go towards Prostate Cancer Canada.
 If you don't already know, Prostate Cancer hits close to home over here.

As far as I know it's not too late to register and we would love to add more to our team.

If you can't make it down then please consider donating to the cause by clicking the link below.

Father’s Day Walk/Run

Thank you.

Best Mother's Day Yet

Were my exact words yesterday.

I couldn't have imagined a better way to spend it.

We started out with the Mother's Day Run and Walk at Foote Field.

Not only were we joined by team Track and Shield {no picture opportunity this time, sorry}, we were also surrounded by friends and family.

Jeff walked with our Moms, the kids, Auntie Brie and Uncle Tim and my Dad dragged me along ran with me.

Cecile brought her Mom and sister and Jay and Chloe's kids made it a real family gathering.

We didn't make the little legs race so Fiona and I did our own.

In lieu of the traditional brunch we brought along a picnic and put our blankets under a tree outside the field.

There was a little space for running and kicking the soccer ball around.

And even a small hill perfect for toddler rolling.

 Remember when rolling down a hill made you this happy?

Maybe it still would, I mean how often do we even try this anymore?

All I know is that this day gave me this much joy.

Becoming a Mom has been amazing and beautiful, indescribably so.

But the real fun has only just begun.

I love finding these little traditions that will carry on for years to come.

Providing the other Moms are on board that is, we couldn't celebrate without you.

Finally, thank you Heather for being the best Mother-in-law a girl could ask for.

Mom, you wrote yesterday that I am an amazing mother.

Thank you, that means the world.

I just hope you realize that's all on you.

Love you.

Our May Race

 I know you've been waiting on the edge of your seats right?

You've been asking yourself, "when WILL their next race be?".

Well the wait is over, no more sleepless nights.

We are registered for the Mother's Day Run and Walk on May 12th.

This one is going to be a true family affair.

Not only are the kids tagging along but we've roped our own {and our employees'} mothers, fathers and sisters into the event.

I'm especially pumped for the Little Legs Race near the end of the morning.

This is a dash for the 2-6 year olds that I'm hoping Fiona will participate in.

{She's hit and miss on her comfort level, toddlers right?}

If you were thinking of doing this race anyways, or you're so inspired by this post you can't bear to miss it but haven't signed up yet, we would love to add more members to team "Track and Shield".

Forget the traditional flowers and cards for Mother's Day, get Mom a fun-filled morning of fitness. 

Just drop me a line for our team password and we'll see you and your Mom there.

"Track and Shield" Inaugural Race

A slightly more positive event from the weekend for you today.

On Sunday morning we ran our first race of the season.

The Edmonton Police Foundation Half Marathon 5K.

{Though I do love how our medals say half marathon. 

It was tempting but I just couldn't lie to you guys.}

It was a great day for running {this was prior to our late April snowstorm} and the race kicked off at Fort Edmonton Park, a great venue.

It was so nice to get out as a team.

I was even able to spring this photo-op on everyone before they could put up a fight.

This event gave me a chance to chat a bit more with Cecile {painter} and Gabe {bodyman}.

Since I do most of my work for the shop from home I don't get this opportunity often.

Gabe talked a little about his kids and their involvement in track and field.

I was never big into the sport but have fond memories of these events in my younger days.

As I was recalling this conversation today it hit me like a ton of bricks.

"Track and Shield" is THE name for this venture.

Sorry "Team Shield", you're out.

The Beginning of Our Giving

“From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.” 

~ Arthur Ashe

Running season is fast approaching.

For some it never left.

 I'm not that tough anymore.

When in University I woke up at 5am 7 days a week year round to run.

Those days are long gone.

I really tried to get to the indoor track a couple times a week.

 And I got owned at strollercize whenever possible.

But nothing beats running outside, especially since we're lucky enough to live down the street from Mill Creek.

You may remember that last year I ran the Melissa's 10K as my postpartum-get-back-in-shape goal.

Other than that I ran only for fitness.

This year will be a little different.

 Jason, Chloe {our partners}, Jeff and I have committed to running as many charity races this summer as possible.

{We are also hoping to rope a few employees in.}

It's important to all of us to give back to our community.

We are not yet in the financial position to give dollars so we're giving what we can, time.

Now don't forget, this is a precious commodity around this joint.

We're not busting at the seams with spare time either.

Today I signed us up for our season opener.

We'll be running the Edmonton Police Foundation race.

It's a half marathon but we'll be crushing the 5K.

Go Team Shield Autobody!

{I did say season opener after all.}

I'm partial to the idea of the races since we also get the health benefit.

I would love to hear of any other ways we can be of service though.

Anyone know of charitable events that a could use some extra bodies?

Dear Strollercize: I Hate You, I Love You

Don't worry I'm not going to submit you to my poetry again.

{If you fancy a refresher, you can find my work here.}

I went to my first strollercize class at the Kinsmen Sports Centre when I was 7 months pregnant with Fiona.

I didn't go in with any expectations but this class blew me away.

This is not a class designed to ease your post-partum body back into exercise.

This is not where you go to meet other Moms and have a chat.

This is a jump-in-head-first-couldn't-catch-your-breath-to-chat-if-you-wanted-to class.

It's a mix of cardio and strength training.

Think circuit training or boot camp.

I definitely credit it with my quick rebound after Fiona.

Once I got pregnant with Cedric I stopped going and it fell off my radar.

Well, I finally went back and am again blown away.

I ran a 10K in September, I'm not in terrible shape.

This class kicks my butt.

I'm talking hurting for 3 days after.

{I am also pushing 80 lbs instead of 40 lbs like last time.}

The up-side is that I got over a fitness plateau that I've been at for months now.

And after going only once a week for 3 weeks.

We haven't been feeling the best so I missed last week's class.

But now I'm all fired up to get back to it today.

The other bonus is that there are bouncy castles for the kids after.

{Always nice to have a carrot for good behaviour right?}

I'm also really proud of the Husband who's been hitting the gym every day this week.

We need that guy to be around for a long time so the healthier the better.

Weekend in the Mountains: Race Style

I did it!

The race I've been dreading has come and gone.

10k in 58:39, this is a huge success for me.

It's amazing how one hour can consume an entire weekend.

We ate and rested for the race on Friday.

We spent the morning preparing, the afternoon celebrating and the evening recovering on Saturday.

Finally, on Sunday, we took a little time to enjoy Canmore.

All in all it was a great weekend with great company.

Thanks to Matt and Julie for being a second set of parents to our kids.

You made it feel a little more like a vacation.