Gotta Start Somewhere

"Onto the next challenge," is what I usually say shortly after completing another physical test. At first it started back in 2010 when I ran my first two half marathons. "On to a full!" I insisted (which turned out to be a mistake - my knees are just starting to forgive me) after completing the Disney Half marathon in January 2011. Once my full marathon was checked off my bucket list I moved onto body building where I competed in three shows in early 2012. This year called for my first triathlon (another Bucket List check-off) - the Nation's Triathlon which was an experience in itself.

So what's next? I would really like to complete the Spartan Trifecta (the Sprint, Super and Beast all in one year) in 2014, but first I have decided to run 50k (~31mi). Why? Because I feel like it's time to really start pushing myself. All my other races and events, I knew I would finish the challenge. Yes, that sounds a bit cocky and over confident, but it's true. Never in my training or during an event did I think that the forthcoming challenge would force me to stop. The closest I came was when I ran my first and only marathon. That was over two and a half years ago. I'm smarter, stronger and less ignorant than I was then, so I'm well aware there is a possibility I won't be able to finish the 50k, but I'm going to do everything in my power to cross that finish line.

So, my training leading up to the race will still include weight training four to five days per week as well as running three to four times per week. On Tuesday I wanted to set a benchmark 5k time. I must say, since running in the Tough Mudder a few weeks ago, I felt good. I ended up completing the run in under 29 minutes with and average pace of nine minutes per mile. Over the next four weeks I'll be using my elevation mask for my weight training and cardio and see how much my time improves because of the mask.

Song of the Week

In light of seeing Silverstein on Thursday...

This week's Song of the Week:

Silverstein - Replace You

Mid-Week Musings

So it seems as autumn has finally arrived here in Jersey. Mid 50s all week and high 30s at night... now we're talking!It's hard to believe November is just over a week away...

A few things in the pipeline:

• Minus the Bear in NYC Friday night
• Family photo shoot in NYC Saturday
• First Halloween party Saturday night

Next week I must start my run-training for the Feb Frozen Apple 50k in Maplewood.  It seems that I keep taking my desire for a challenge to a higher level each time, but I'm not too sure how much higher I can go. I'm well aware of my physical limitations and 31 miles might be it. 

That's it for now... I leave you with this. What State Fits Your Mood -  I belong in New Mexico. I'll be looking for a place on Negra Arroyo Ln.

Now Playing - letlive. - Banshee

Another First

This month is proving to be very unique for me. Last week I mentioned that I had my first maternity photo shoot - and my second one only a few days later. I'm holding off on posting the pictures from my second shoot because the couple wants to surprise everyone around the holidays with cards so I will keep them hidden until then.

My latest first-encounter - selling on eBay. I just sold 13 games for more than I would have ever guessed or received from Game Stop. I think the next item for sale is the PS3, and basically anything else I haven't touched in six months.

Back to editing pictures and waiting for the plumber to come... I remember the days when thinking of a plumber meant playing Super Mario.

Song of the Week

It's funny how this blog keeps gettign away from me. It was a lot easier when I spent all my time in front of a computer at work. Anyway, I digress...

This week's Song of the Week:

Bayside - Already Gone

Saw these guys last month in Chicago at Riot Fest and they were awesome! One of my favorite sets that we saw that weekend.

Song of the Week

This week's Song of the Week is meant to be played at loud volumes.

Beloved - Insult to Injury
 

If you're constantly on the hunt for new music, check out SonicAwareness.net.

A First for Me

As a professional photographer I have had the opportunity to shoot weddings, events, portraits, products, etc. This weekend I had the chance to work my first maternity shoot with a couple who's wedding I captured end two years ago. Here are a few teasers from yesterday.

Weekend Recap: Muddy Edition

This past weekend I completed my first Tough Mudder with two active clients and one former client of mine. The four of us set out early Saturday morning to concour the event that last year jacked up my ankle, cost me a pair of Vibram Five Fingers, and had me carted of the course. At 8:20 am we set out for the 11-mile run riddled with over 15 obstacles - and we concoured! Two hours forty minutes later we crossed the finish line covered head-to-toe in mud, shocked (electrically), and in dire need of a hot shower. Unfortunately, the sweatband you receive as a finisher medal was lost, so I guess I will just have to do it again next year!

With the conclusion of the Tristate Tough Mudder, this year I have completed four races which is the most I've done in one calendar year. It all started with a Spartan Race in June, Warrior Dash in August, Nation's Triathlon in September, and most recently the Tough Mudder in October. What's on the agenda for next year, you ask? A 50k in February and then onto the Spartan trifecta - the sprint, dash and beast all in one year. Yes, I am crazy.

Now Playing Silverstein - In a Place of Solace 

Guess Who's Back....Back Again

Wow it's been a while since my last post and things have been crazy, but are finally settling down! I did miss writing and now seems like a great time to bring back the blog.

Since I last wrote, I did compete in my first triathlon (the Nation's Triathlon in Washington DC) back in September, went to Riot Fest in Chicago and most recently got two new tattoos. Every weekend in September was spent living out of a suitcase and it's good to be done with that!

This upcoming weekend I'll be looking to complete my first Tough Mudder in Englishtown. Last year's attempt didn't go so well as I was carted off the course at mile four with a major high ankle sprain. It wasn't until June/July this year that the range of motion in that ankle really started to improve. Hopefully Saturday isn't a repeat of last year and I'll be able to write a new entry with some completion pictures!

For now, I leave you with my new ink!