HELLO, MY DARLINGSSSSS!
First off, Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful and beautiful mommies out there!
Now… I returned from Europe a week ago. I am so sorry for disappearing off the radar for so long, I really didn’t mean to. However, I really underestimated the emotional impact my trip to Ukraine had. I will talk about this some other time, but I really needed to take a break and I feel that I am ready to be back. *WOOP WOOP!!!*
I know you all would like to hear about my trip to Europe; however, today I’d like to tell about the AWESOME weekend I had!
My hubby and I went to a cottage with our friends. And let me tell you, they are an amazing bunch of people, I love them with all my heart… to the moon and back… twice! Haha! *You see? I AM generous!*
Recently, one of the couples got a super adorable pup, a mix of boxer and pitbull. They called her Stella, and she is the cutest thing EVER! I mean, look at her!!!
Needless to say, Bella and Stella are best friends now! *Why wouldn’t they be? LOL!*
*Aren’t they SUPER CUTE?!?!*
When we woke up on Saturday, we were pleasantly surprised by the sun and warm weather because the forecast predicted showers. The guys considered playing soccer in the backyard, but then we all unanimously decided to go for a hike to Montagne Noire (Black Mountain). I wasn’t aware, but on October 19, 1943, a B-24 bomber crashed near the summit of the mountain. It’s a very sad story because all 24 military men, who were heading home, died in the crash. Not only that, but the plane was found almost 3 years later (read more here). According to Global News, it is the worst accident in the history of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
The nature was simply breathtaking!
It was about a 12-13 km hike (back and forth, obviously). So as you can imagine, the dogs had a blast! Unfortunately, we didn’t see the remaining wreckage of the plane, even though the crash sight was only about 300 meters away: there was too much snow and it would be too dangerous to bring our pups there.
*I took this picture on the way back; but it was about knee deep at the place we got to.*
I feel like this weekend with my family (my hubby & Bella) and friends up north finally brought my mind back to a positive place.
The Spartan Race is only a week away, and I feel like I am not in the best shape for it. Last month was somewhat of an emotional roller coaster and I haven’t done any running at all. That being said, I have remained active and I am super excited for this 13+ km race, and can’t wait for the day to come!
Has this ever happened to you? What do you suggest I do in order to get my body ready *somewhat ready* with only 7 days left? *Let’s be real, I am not expecting miracles here! lol! I simply want to enjoy the experience.*
xoxo
Olena
candies & crunches 
With only 7 days left, you won’t actually be able to gain any strength or fitness so my vote is to not stress over it, just continue to do easier workouts so you’re not too tired or sore for race day and trust in all the fitness you built up previously, you probably didn’t lose as much as you think! Also, that hike is GORGEOUS and Bella looks crazy cute with that giant stick 🙂
I totally agree with you. Your stamina is good, so do some workouts. But only light ones. You will do great during the race. I’m sure about that. 🙂
Thank you for your support, darling! xoxo
Okay first, I love that Bella and Stella rhyme!! So freakin’ cute and my, OH MY, Stella is sooooo cute!!! Bella is SO adorable, too!!! Cute dogs!!! Beautiful pictures and I’m glad you had a great weekend!!
YAY! You’re back! It’s been forever! Can’t wait to hear all about your trip. As far as the Spartan race goes, a week won’t make a huge difference so just enjoy your time and stay lightly active. Don’t stress too much! Welcome back!
Jenna, you are the sweetest! I hope you know it! ❤
7 days left, I would at least get in 3 runs (Mon,Wed,Fri). Seeing as the race is so close you want to get in some volume, but not too much that you’re shot on race day. Try one day early in the week being around race distance (alternating walking and running), one day being intervals (20 seconds work to 1min active rest), and one day being hill work (if you don’t have a hill a heavy incline treadmill will do). Something like that would be your best bet at simulating the Spartan Race environment, but also helping you get in quality work without burning you out.
Best of luck!
Chris Pendleton CSCS
Thank you so much for helpful tips and stopping by my blog, Chris!
xoxo
Olena
I agree. At this point just make it a fun run and enjoy yourself. Don’t worry about speed or pace and just have a good time. You will be great!
yay, glad to have you back! Thanks for the adorable doggy pics as always 🙂 In terms of the race there probably isn’t much left to do except to make sure you are getting good sleep and staying well hydrated. I’m sure your fitness base will carry you through and you’ll have an awesome time!
Looks like you had a fabulous time! As far as the race goes, just have fun and don’t worry!
You’re so sweet, Meranda! Thank you! ❤
That area looks absolutely beautiful for hiking, looks like you guys had a great trip!
Good luck with your Spartan race, I’m sure you’ll have a great time!
❤
Glad that you had such a great weekend. It looks super pretty up there! You have a great fitness base so just take an easy week and enjoy your race!
Wow those photos are AMAZING!! What a beautiful hike! Stella and Bella are too stinking cute! Sounds like your “kids” are BFFs now 😉 With only 7 days left, I say take it easy. Maybe go for some light jogs here and there, but don’t push it. You don’t want to injure yourself right before the race!
It was indeed a beautiful place to be at! We are already planning a second date for our ‘babies’ haha 🙂
Pingback: Hiking, Stupid Laws & Spartan Rhode Island Bucket Workout | candies & crunches
Pingback: Spur Of The Moment Decisions: Small Changes, Big Rewards | candies & crunches