IRON GIRL (World Triathlon Corporation) chooses Milestones Jewelry as Official Jeweler!

About 4 years ago I was standing at the start line with a few friends and my sister-in-Law, Teresa getting ready to run the 10K Iron Girl Race in Clearwater, FL. As I looked up and saw another Jewelry Company's Flags, Banners and Logos everywhere, I turned to Teresa and pointed at the Logo flag and said "One day that will say Milestones Jewelry".
After that we struggled to even be able to set up a booth and sell our Jewelry line at Iron Girl events due to some contract issues with the other company.  We finally convinced Iron Girl to let us set up at expos and races to sell our Jewelry. We quickly gained respect and a great relationship with the people who put on the events. Our first year we did great at the events in  Clearwater, FL and Atlanta, GA. Later we joined several of their other events.  I love participating and selling at the IRON GIRL expos. They are more than a race, they are so empowering and fun for Women.

We have worked very hard to build our business and now have a full line of Exclusive Jewelery as well as Apparel and Accessories. And we are getting ready to roll out our own line of Apparel.
 
Well late last year we were contacted by  Iron Girl asking if we'd be interested in becoming the EXCLUSIVE Jeweler of IRON GIRL. That meant we could be at all their events to sell our products and that we would be the ONLY Jeweler with the rights to design, produce and sell Iron Girl Jewelry. 

I really couldn't believe it. We worked diligently for months to iron out the contract and finally this week we signed the contract and are Now Officially the IRON GIRL EXCLUSIVE JEWELER!!!

We will also be designing and providing the top finisher awards to all the IRON GIRL winners.
You're going to love the new awards!!!   

I have already designed over 10 pieces for our Iron Girl line of Jewelry, they go into production this week and we should be able to premiere them by the end of February.   If I must say so myself  THEY ARE AWESOME!!!
So please visit us at all the Iron Girl events across the country and shop on line once we roll  out our new pieces at www.milestonessportsjewelry.com or www.Irongirlshop.com

It is such an honor for us to have been chosen for this prestigious opportunity.

So next time you are standing at the start line or running through the finish line chute and see the Milestones Jewelry Logo flags and banners, remember it was a hard earned position for us and we are so proud to be able to bring to you, our customers the highest quality most unique and beautiful Jewelry possible. 
Thank you to all our friends, family and especially our customers that have supported us and believed in us over the last four years. We won't let you down.

"The greatest revenge is to accomplish what others say you cannot do."

~ Unknown
Never, Never Quit!!!

In Health,
Melody
   
 

Milestones Jewelry and Apparel - Growing like a weed!

Starting a New Business is an exciting and scaring adventure. When we launched this business we had no idea how fast it would grow and how many people's lives we would touch. The Growth has been so gratifying and still scary. We continue to reinvest everything back into our business. We have learned so very much and continue learning every day. Custom Silver Casting has become a big part of our business. Our goal is to eventually have most of our Silver to be Custom designed by us and produced exclusively for Milestones Jewelry.  We want to offer you items that can not be found anywhere else. We are also buying an Engraving machine that is Awesome, it will do logo's, Vector art and enable us to customize pieces for you at a very reasonable price.
I mentioned in my last post that a big announcement will be made in January 2012 that I think you all will be as excited about as we are.  There are so many things on the Horizon that we will soon be announcing all to be able to offer you, our customers the best products at the best prices.   
On a personal note; I continue to struggle with my marathon training for the ING Miami Marathon on January 29th. Some weeks are great and others...well, not so much. I have a half marathon this weekend and I'm a bit nervous about it because it is a very Challenging course, lots of hills and a real Killer in the last mile. But I love challenges so I'll let you know how I do.   
We continue to add lots of new products to our website so check back often. Our line of Apparel is growing as well as the popularity of our Sporty Bands. (headbands that look great and don't slip off) Check them out if you have not done so.
Well, I hope to see you all at one of many upcoming Expos. Check our calendar and please stop by our booth and say Hello!
Until next time.....
Melody  

Living Life at Race Pace!

WOW, My blog!! I had almost forgotten how to access it. It's been so long since I've made a post. That's good news and bad news. We've been so busy that I've barely had a moment to breathe. My training has suffered more than anything. But I guess we have to make choices, there are only so many hours in a day.
So since I last checked in we've been to New Jersey twice, Philly, Columbia Maryland, D.C., Nashville and Lake Lanier Island (near Atlanta, GA.) All for Triathlon Expos with the exception of Nashville which was the Women's half Marathon. Too many hours in the car. But all the Expos were great and very successful for Milestones Jewelry.

When I started this Blog it was to be about my Journey of starting a new business. I've strayed quite a bit away from that and unfortunately not recorded many things I wish I had. But the bottom line is that we are growing leaps and bounds.  As they say "You've come a long way Baby!" Especially since our first event with one little table and our yellow table cloth, no logos, no signs, no tents, no grid walls, no displays, etc. 
We now have a Fantastic Set up with two tents, Logo'd table clothes, Banners and signs, Awesome Displays, a full line of Apparel, Sporty Bands, Our own Custom Cast Silver and Pewter designed Jewelry, and we continue to grow. Our website has been redesigned and is being Optimized to create  a higher placement on all search engines; resulting in higher Internet sales for us. We have also built a great data base of core customers.  We can now communicate with over 7,000 Runners and Triathletes.

It never ceases to amaze me, the stories I hear, the people I meet at expos and through the website, on the phone and emails. They all inspire me and make me proud to have a business that touches so many people's lives. 
 
We are working with Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to set up a category on our website for a special Line of Jewelry where all purchases will have a percentage donated to LLS. We are working with several other organizations to do the same thing. Many of you know that I ran my first Marathon 6 years ago for LLS with Team in Training, so they will always hold a special place in my heart.    

We are also currently working on several custom Sterling Silver pieces for two different Triathlon clubs and have tons of inquires from Race Directors and Organizations for us to create custom pieces for them.

We are also buying an Engraving machine! YEAH!!! We currently have to send all our engraved pieces to a third party and this will allow us to create some awesome Customized pieces and we hope to be able to bring the engraver to events where we can do custom engraving right on the spot!!

We are also working on a HUGE (Secret) project that I can not currently talk about. But believe me it will take this business to the next level and I think all our customers will LOVE IT!! Stayed tuned for the big announcement!! 

Another big change.....We have purchased a home in St. Petersburg, FL which will allow us to spend Winters in Florida and Summers in  North Carolina. The best of both Worlds.   
So times are a changing!! I just hope I can keep up.

I'm in the second week of my 18 week Marathon Journey to Miami, FL on Jan. 29th. So I'll try my best to balance all that's on my plate!!

Thank you again to my friends and Family who have always believed in me and supported even my craziest ventures. And to all my customers, many whom have become my friends.
It's so wonderful to have your work be your passion!!
And I leave you with this:
"Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive. ~Attributed to Howard Thurman

ROCK N ROLL MAN TRIATHLON

Milestones Jewelry; Large and in charge at the Rock n Roll Triathlon. Both the Half Ironman and Sprint Triathlon events were Awesome. Macon, GA was around 104 degrees, no clouds in the sky. These Athletes really showed what they were made of. From our favorite young ladies to our seasoned Athletes; we were in Awe of them. Not only are they strong physically but they are some of the nicest people we have met.

Pictured here sporting her new Triathlon Tri-Pie necklace is Super Triathlete Madison Honeycutt. She's Polite, Sweet and a Rockin' Athlete. Watch out for her in the future, she's going to set some records in this sport.

So in spite of the heat, Macon was really beautiful. Great location for a race, right on the Beautiful Lake.

We also got to see one of our other favorite customers; Nobuko Fogarty and her son. What a great Mother, Son Team. Nobuko you amaze me every time I see you. You  just keep on striving and achieving so much. I think you look younger every time I see you. You are a great role model for your son.

Here's Nobuko sporting one of our most popular Tri shirts "HATE TO RUN....GOTTA TRI" and her Milestones Charm Bracelet.
Thanks to all our wonderful customers.

We have just about wrapped up the new design of our website, so If you haven't seen it yet you have to check it out. Let us know what you think.
Next comes new Photo shoots and lots of new products in the works.

For me personally? Well my 18 week marathon training starts next week. I'll be training for the "Ridge to Bridge" Marathon in Morganton, NC. I hear it is a very scenic course but is limited to only 300 participants. It sold out in one day, so it must be pretty cool. I will be running with my friend Amanda and hopefully our friend Tom. So I'll keep you posted on the inevitable ups and downs of marathon training while running a business, traveling and keeping up with day to day life in the fast lane.

Remember- "Either you run the day or the day runs you".

Jim Rohn

           

Iron Girl from Florida to Georgia!

 

Belly Rings were a big hit at Iron Girl, Clearwater, FL. They have a loop so you can choose from all our great charms and add it to the Belly Ring. Pictured here is one of our many happy customers.

Both our Iron Girl events in Florida and Georgia were super successes.  The events were run fantastically, Customers were great as usual and we had a great time. We are looking forward to Iron Girl in Columbia Maryland in the Fall. But for now we are off to Macon, Ga. this weekend for the Rock n Roll Triathlon and then we start on the road to many more expos.

My training has been... well.... not much. I have been having a difficult time getting back in the groove. But with my marathon training program only weeks away I'm gearing back up for some serious training, and getting back on track with eating. Gotta shed a few pounds. I'm planning to run the Bridge to Ridge Marathon in Morganton, NC in October. In the meantime I've been busy planning a huge fundraising event for Logan's Run Rescue, where my beloved Aragorn came from. We are having a "PAW-TY in the PARK" which kicks off with a 5K run for the humans, followed by a 1 Mile Mutt Strut with Dogs and their owners. We have cash prizes and tons of great goodies for the goody bags for both dogs and their owners. Plus the day will be filled with great activities for Kids and the whole family, like a bounce house, face painting, Fantastic Raffle items, Music and Dog Contests like The Best Trick contest and the Dog/Owner Lookalike contest.

It's right on Lake Chatuge with a beautiful 5k course that will be run on a paved trail that goes over the Dam, with breath taking views of the Lake and mountains. 

So as you can see I'm staying pretty busy. Oh I almost forgot to mention the great Garden I am growing, Heirloom tomatoes, Red & Yellow bell peppers, hot Chilli Peppers, Eggplant, cucumbers, onions, even horseradish. And of course Herbs of all kinds. I'm looking forward to a great bounty in the fall. 

Well better close it up and get ready for Swimming, Tuesday is Swim night. Looking forward to a good workout. 

Stay Happy and Reach for the Stars!!

Melody  

Marathon & Triathlon Motivation!

It's funny but I'm sure I've written about motivation or lack there of, before :-)  
I ponder this question; If Running, Swimming and Cycling give me such an endorphin high and make me feel so good why do I go through periods of being so UNmotivated?
I've been in Florida since the end of January and unfortunately have had very little time to enjoy the great weather and my friends. The reason is actually a good one. Milestones Jewelry is on a huge growth curve. We have expanded our line to Clothing, Accessories and we even have Belly Rings that you can add a charm to. We have had a custom made "Milestone's Melody" Pendant and smaller charm that is a replica from our logo.  We are currently in production with several other custom designs. It's all very exciting!!
     
Our Expos have been absolutely wonderful starting with ING Miami in January and hopefully wrapping up beautifully this weekend with IRON GIRL in Clearwater.  Then next week we pack it in and go back home to the mountains of North Carolina. As much as I love Florida; I miss my deck overlooking the mountain ranges and my home, long walks through the woods with the dogs and my running buddies.
Which brings me back to my point of motivation. I think part of why I have not been running or doing my Triathlon training is I don't really have a core group of manics to meet up with. I know you shouldn't have to be motivated by others but it helps when you know people are expecting you to show up.
Anyway, I enjoy running with those folks as I've stated in the past. I miss them and can't wait to get my butt kicked on the hills with them late next week. Tar-Hell here I come!  I wonder if the Hills have missed me as much as I've missed them? I wonder if my friends will remember to include me in the email trail that starts around 11am every morning about where and when we are Running, Cycling or Swimming?  

I wonder how fast I'll get back in the shape I was in when I left? Wonder, Wonder! Soon I shall see!

And on that note I'll leave you with this: 

"So When defeat comes, accept it as a signal that your plans are not sound, rebuild those plans, and set sail once more toward your coveted goal"
Napoleon Hill 

It's NOT "JUST" a Half marathon; it's a Milestone Endurance Accomplishment!

For the last several years Milestones Jewelry has done the Marathon and half marathon Expo circuit. We have had the pleasure of meeting and talking to so many wonderful people. People of all walks of life, all sizes, shapes and all running for a different reason. One of the most common comments I hear is I'm JUST running the Half marathon". "JUST"!!....Are you kidding me? 13.1 miles or 21.1 Kilometers is a LONG way! It takes the same training, Endurance, the same sacrifices, the same Passion and commitment and joy of running as the Marathon.  I always tell these people that they should be proud of their accomplishment and not feel like it's only a stepping stone to the marathon.  Running a marathon is great if that's what your goal is. But running a half marathon is a Milestone Endurance Accomplishment!

The half marathon is the fastest growing running distance race in the past several years. Don't ever feel less for running a half as a friend or co-worker that runs a full marathon.

As a matter of fact my two fastest running friends (sub 6 minute milers) ONLY run half marathons. That's their passion. All my running Buddies in North Carolina could easily run a full marathon and several of us do. But the majority of them LIVE for the HALF!  They train so much harder than most of the marathon runners I know. Speed work, Intervals, running in any kind of weather, Snow, rain, wind, nothing stops them. Oh and hills? Just the mention of a route that involves the most difficult hills puts a huge smile on their face.
They are currently Training for the Nashville Half marathon and I hear they are more focused and are training harder than ever. Everyone wants a PR and I'm sure they'll all get it. Me? I'm in Florida still on the marathon circuit trying to get in enough training to do "JUST" a SPRINT Triathlon.....We'll save that one for another post.

So I'll close by saying Take the word "JUST" out of your vocabulary. Proudly proclaim when asked "I AM A Runner and I run HALF Marathons". Remember It's not just a half marathon it's a Milestone Endurance Accomplishment!   If it was easy everyone would be doing it!!

I am in Awe of everyone that has trained for a half marathon and crossed that finish line. No one can ever take that feeling of accomplishment away from you. 
 
"The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."
-John Bingham

My first Triathlon-How to pick a race?

OK, So I've started Swimming and biking, and continuing my running of course.  But my first question to you seasoned Triathletes is how do you put all the training together? I feel like I can only do one sport per day because of time restraints. And then the BIGGEST question, is how far out should I pick a race (I just started training and need to do my first Tri before my next marathon training starts in June).  Oh and which race do I choose?? One with a really short swim or for the location, one with Women only?? I really need to pick a race and sign up. I seem to be so unmotivated if I don't' have a specific race I'm training for. So any help would be greatly appreciated.
Then there's the problem of working so many of the best Triathlons. Hard to work and then do the Tri the next day and leave my poor husband to work the race day expo by himself.  Well, a lot to think about.  
Today is Cycling and a few miles running after that. I'm really trying to put 2 sports together each day.
So I'll keep you posted on how it goes.

Meanwhile, on the Milestones Jewelry front, We are adding so many great products.We now have some unbelievable Pandora style starter bracelets and great European style beads to go on them. Check out our website for the 13.1, 26.2, and running shoe beads PLUS we just got in Mickey Mouse, Goofy and Donald Duck in European style beads, they fit Pandora, troll and all European style bracelets.

Use the code BLOG to receive 10% off all purchases you make prior to March 31st!!!
We will be adding tons more products so visit our website often to see all the new exciting products.  

http://milestonessportsjewelry.com/shop/mickey-mouse-european-bead-906

Have a great day,
Melody 

Our Whirl wind tour of the marathon Expos in Florida

Whew!! After 6 marathon expos over 5 weeks, from Miami to Jacksonville I can say I am completed exhausted, exhilarated, and ready to get back into my work out routine. It's been a great journey, all of our expos were profitable and we met and got reacquainted with so many nice friends and customers of Milestones Jewelry.
We are working on our website, which seems a never ending project to update it with new pictures of all the great new products we have launched. My big challenge right now is photography, We are building a light box, bought an expensive camera that I can not seem to figure our how to use correctly but where's there's a will there's a way. I am so looking forward to the day I can just  whip out my camera and new design, shoot, upload and have it on the website. Patience my friends say, Patience!!  
I am enjoying being in Florida, I did my first bike ride this week, 20 miles and it was so enjoyable. I am doing a long run tomorrow and looking forward to cycling with my husband next week.

We have a bit of a break, (compared to teh last 5 weeks) so we are going to try to get in at least one beach day and spend some time with friend we haven't seen in a very long time.
I do miss my home and North Carolina in many ways but I have to say that going out for Sushi around the corner and calling for delivery pizza is really a treat. In NC there is none of that, However, we eat so much healthier in NC because we are forced to cook. And luckily my husband is a great cook and has a nice heathly dinner ready for me most nights when I return from my run with the Murphy Manics.

So my goal over our remaining 3 weeks is to work on my website upgrade, design some new Triathlon charms..... Stay tuned for Belly Rings you ripped Triathletes and runners. and enjoy some time with friends and my babies Maya and Aragorn.

So as I leave you with hopes of a quick return; I will just say thank you to all of you that inspire me on a daily basis and those of my customers, friends and family that AMAZE me. I love you all, and count myself so very lucky to have the job I have and  the opportunity to create, meet great people and be my own boss. Damn I am a slave driver!!!!!!  
Stay tuned and tell your friends, we are hoping to figure out how to have my husband guest post on this blog about being the spouse of a compulsive runner. I think many spouses and significant others will appreciate his insights and share so many frustrations and  accomplishments! Plus he's such a better writer than me and so   much more interesting.
Treat each day like it's your last one,

Melody
               

HOME SWEET HOME!

Well we finally returned home from our visit in Florida and our expo at the Mobile First Light marathon in Mobile, AL. We had a wonderful time with my family but had to extend our stay due to the terrible weather in North Carolina. We live at the top of a mountain and when it snows the road to our home is not passable without chains on the tires. But we are here and ready to get back to work, home life and training. My Triathlon training is not going very well at all. Between the traveling and little fact that I can not cycle AT ALL here with all the snow and ice, only the swimming and running is really possible at this time. But we'll be in Florida soon enough and I look forward to actually learning HOW to ride my bike. :-) I have lots of friends there that are great at cycling so I'm hoping they will help me out.
Since my Jacksonville marathon my training has been very sporadic. It's so hard after you run a marathon and don't have a set date for your next event, to stay on track with training. So I think I'll sit down today and pick a Triathlon to sign up for in Spring, a sprint Tri of course:-) and then I am thinking of committing (mentally) to run the Mohawk Hudson marathon in upstate New York in October, IF.......I don't get into the New York City marathon on November 6th. So it's New York either way. I'll see how training goes and decide if I'll go for my BQ in this marathon or just hope to shave 6-7 minutes this marathon, and then try to qualify in my next marathon after that. Lots to think about. I'll keep you posted on my decision on the Triathlon I pick!!
Well I hope everyone's new year is off to a great start!!  Set your goals now and go after them. I'll keep you posted on mine.
Have a great day!!
Melody                  

JACKSONVILLE MARATON-WHAT I LEARNED!

Well the Jacksonville marathon is finally over. I struggled through 18 weeks of an intense running program. I had many great weeks and some bad weeks. I was never sure how I'd do considering all my training was in the hills of North Carolina and my marathon was flat all the way. Many times I wanted to give up, throw in the towel. But as predicted by all my friends the hill training paid off big. I shaved 27 minutes off my best marathon time. I came in at 4:17:30, and the best part is I was that I held a consistent pace for all 26.2 miles, and achieved a negative split. (I ran the last half of the marathon faster than the first half, which is pretty difficult to do). 
This marathon and the 18 weeks and even prior to that has given taught me many things:

1. Just like life; You get out of a marathon what you put in.  

2. Your support system is paramount. If you don't have the support of your family, especially your spouse it's almost impossible to excel in the marathon. So I thank my husband from the bottom of my heart for being the best cheerleader ever.

3. The people you train with make all the difference in the world. Train with unmotivated, half serious people, you become like them. Train with people like my "Murphy Maniacs" you become like them. I can not thank my running friends in Murphy enough. I can't express their zest for running, their dedication, their consistency, their drive. I wish I could find the words to describe them.  They have made me SO MUCH more of a better runner and better person. Thank you, Pat, Jennifer, Tania, Tracy, David, Paul, and Daisy. You guys will help me get to Boston.

4. It's true that a marathon is 80% mental and 20% physical. Running Jacksonville was difficult mentally because I am so used to crowd support, this was like a really long run with basically no one around. So being mentally strong was a big factor in my PR.

5. And finally I learned that any thing is possible. If you can dream it, you can achieve it. But of course you have to put the work in to it. Nothing good comes easy. I never thought I'd even get close enough to be thinking about qualifying for Boston.

So in closing; again I thank my husband for always supporting me, putting up with the training and being the best cheerleader during my marathons. I thank Marsha (mom) and Norman (Papa) for teaching me that I can do any thing I put my mind to. I thank my running buddies in Murphy, Christine, my Coach; the Rock Star Joe, who never lets up or gives up on me.  
Special thanks to Amanda & Pat for all their pep talks.When I wanted to drop out and give up on this marathon. You ladies are a Class act! And my brother, Eric and Sister in law Teresa, you guys are always there for me. Also, thanks to my many friends that are always there to motivate me and never let me down.

I am so very thankful for my health and my friends and family. It's a great time for all of us to reflect on the past but more importantly to look to the future.
I realize that just one kind word, one email, one phone call can really change a person. So I challenge you to set your own goals high for the coming year, and motivate that friend, co-worker or family member to achieve their goals as well. You can make a big difference in someones life.
    
“Life is partly what we make it, and partly what it is made by the friends we choose.” Tennessee Williams   

FANTASTIC FLORIDA Marathon Expos

Well, We have one last Florida marathon Expo remaining for 2010, the Marathon of the West Palm Beaches. My husband Stuart and Christine will be working that one while I hold down the fort with my Babies, Aragorn and Maya, and continue my last weeks of training for the Jacksonville marathon on December 19th.

The last 5 weeks have been a whirl wind for all of us at Milestones. We are so appreciative to all our customers and all the great folks we met at the last expos.  We have so many repeat customers and are so Thankful for all of your support. Also we want to Thank all the great race/expo directors who created a wonderful buying and selling experience for these events. The BIGGEST thanks goes to my husband, Stuart whom without I would have never made it through these events. He and Christine trading off shows with me has been a Blessing. The sacrifice will be worth it when I run Jacksonville and hopefully make him proud.   
Also I am so proud of our new Christmas Ornament that we designed and had cast in Pewter for us. It has our Milestones runner in the center, and in a week or so we will have our new Sterling Silver Milestones runner girl charm. If you haven't gotten your ornament yet go to our website and order now before they are all gone. We are getting low on inventory and won't be having any more made until next year. You will not find this ornament anywhere else as we own the design. Well I hope to write many more times before the end of the year. But I do  want to wish you all a Healthy and Happy Holiday Season. 
Melody                

Milestones Jewelry setting "Milestones"

Well as always it's been way too long since I've posted to this blog. We have been Crazy busy with Milestones Jewelry and going through all of our growing pains. We have added a new clothing line to our business and New Jewelry designs as well. I'm so excited about our new Christmas Tree ornament that we had cast for us featuring our Runner girl from our logo. And we should be receiving next week our new Runner girl charm in sterling silver as well as the 13.1 (half marathon) and 26.2 (full marathon) Barell beads that fit Pandora style bracelets.
Reflecting back now over the last 2 and 1/2 years, we have come so far since our first set up in Treasure Island, FL at a 5K with just a little table, yellow table cloth and laminated signs. Now we have a rockin' set up, Beautiful banners, logo table cloths and grid walls!!
We can barely keep up with the website orders. We are sponsors of the new Facebook application called "IjustRan" that you can log your miles in running, swimming and biking. It's too cool!!
So Milestones Jewelry is on the road again to Florida, this weekend the Women's half marathon in St. Petersburg, next Coco Beach for Space Coast marathon, which I am going to run as a long training run for the "real thing", Jacksonville marathon in December. Then we go to West Palm Beach for the last of the Florida Expos this year. Then we'll be off to Jacksonville where I'm hoping for a huge P.R. (Personal best time).  My training has been going well, other than my IT band problems. Last two long runs have been great! I felt strong and still had gas in the tank after my 19 miler and 20 miler last week. So if I can keep injuries at bay and keep up with my weekly mileage I should do well in the marathon.
Well, better run :-) Remember what Abe Lincoln said:
"And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years".


            

MARATHONS AND MOTIVATION

I really don't know where to start. It's been so long since my last entry. I guess I'm just wondering about Motivation, how do you get it? How do you lose it? In my last entry appropriately titled NO DOUBT, I talked about how motivated I was. So I guess this one is about well.....DOUBT! I'm 7 weeks away from my planned Jacksonville marathon. I pulled a hamstring running a half marathon several weeks ago. I set a new PR and was very happy with my performance. The hamstring is feeling much better now, NOW it's my left knee that's bothering me. We think it is ITB, known as IT Band syndrome, which really in your hip but the pain is in the knee. Anyway it started about 2 weeks ago on my long run of 16 miles. I had to walk a lot and was in severe pain. Like most runners, I'm running through it with just a few days here and there off.
But what worries me even more is that I feel like my long run distances are no where near as many or as long as they have been in my last two marathon training programs. I really haven't had one good long run, NOT ONE!! That's really bad, with only 7 weeks to go. I'll try for an 18 miler this Saturday with some friends.
I emailed my Rock Star Coach, and he says give it 2 weeks and see how I feel, but he's really talking about the knee pain, not the DOUBT about where I am in my training and if I'm ready to set a PR in Jacksonville. I will not be happy with anything other than a sub 4:30 marathon. (btw, this is fast for me so don't laugh if you're thinking "you" could do that in your sleep). 
 
So I am struggling as whether or not to drop out of Jacksonville. I have not signed up yet, not made airfare reservations, nor hotel, etc. Jacksonville does not sell out so I have the Luxury of waiting to make a decision. Maybe this is bad, if I'd paid and made all the arrangements like I have in the past maybe I'd be more committed, or feel different. I really don't know. I guess things change drastically when you are shooting for a PR time and not just to finish. I know I can finish, I just don't want to be miserable the last 6 miles or more like I was in Paris. So I have really no answers! It's very difficult when I have so many Milestones Jewelry Expos coming up and we are so busy. But that's a good thing. Well I guess I will just keep putting one foot in front of the other and come to a decision. I'll keep you posted.
"Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go". ~T.S. Eliot


             

Road Trip...Nashville, Lake Lanier, Chickamauga, then Florida!

This is me sprinting to the finish line in a recent 5K race. I actually placed first in my age division (the old lady's division, I call it) :-)
But I set a P.R. and feel that I am getting stronger and a little faster. My training is going well for the Jacksonville Bank Marathon. December 19th will be here before I know it. I'm hoping that running all the hills around here in North Carolina will help me set a nice P.R. in Jacksonville. But it's too early to start putting that much pressure on myself. I will just try to stay consistent, get in all my weekly miles and stay healthy and injury free.

Well Milestones Jewelry goes on the Road again this weekend. We are off to the Nashville Women's half marathon in Tennessee on Thursday for a two day expo, then it's the Lake Lanier Triathlon (near Atlanta, GA.), Buttar Tri in Orlando, then Chickamauga (near Chattanooga, TN) then off to Florida for St. Pete Women's half, . Space Coast marathon, & The marathon of the West Palm Beaches. All should be great shows and we are very excited for all our past and new customers to see our new line of Pewter Jewelry and Gifts as well as our new line of Apparel and lots of new Jewelry designs. Check it all out on our website at www.milestonessportsjewelry.com.
I look forward to seeing you at one of these great event expos coming up. Please stop by our booth to say hello and check out all our great new items.
Until next time..." Take a great leap, one that is wider than what your pants can allow, and you will never be the same."
 Robert Philemon Kanyike --- Uganda

NO DOUBT!

The principle is competing against yourself.  It's about self-improvement, about being better than you were the day before. -Steve Young

So as I went into my 4th week of my 18 week marathon training program, I was full of doubt. Doubt that I'd have the time to train properly, that I'd be able to meet my time goal. The doubt that I'd let myself and my coach down.  The crazy thing is that I know that I can do anything I set my mind to. I am blessed to have the good health to be able to train for another marathon. As Samuel Johnson said  "Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance."

I must thank my Mother and Papa who always told me all things are possible if you believe in yourself. And they spent a great deal of time helping me to believe it! I am so grateful to have such a supportive family, husband, and circle of friends to cheer me on in all I do and encounter in life.

But at the end of the day it is really only ourselves we must depend on. No one else can run my miles for me, eat right for me, or keep me mentally strong. 

So as I was running my 13 miles on Monday, Labor Day I realized just how much I do love to run. I run because I'm sad, because I'm happy, I run from things, and towards them. I run alone and with groups of friends and groups of strangers. People often ask that question of me; Why do you run? I usually quip something stupid like "I don't really know, guess I'm crazy". But of course I wouldn't be training for my 6th marathon if that were the real reason.

My company Milestones Jewelry recently started carrying a line of clothing with inspirational sayings on the shirts and the one that rings the most true for me is the one that says "I RUN...for MYSELF". I run for achievement, to keep myself in check, to realize that some days things are difficult and others are easy. I run to be outdoors, to experience the weather. When I worked in corporate America, some days I'd have no idea what the weather felt like that day because I was in an office all day.    I love the feeling of being so tired that I think I can not take another step, and then I  love more the feeling I get when I dig down deep and go another mile, or 20. I love crossing the finish line, the emotions of completing a task I have been training for for over 4 months. I always cry as I cross the finish line of a marathon or usually when I can see it. All the emotions, the ups and downs, the missed runs, the extra mileage, the sacrifice, the pain, the runners high,  the gratefulness of my good health & the people who have supported me and sacrificed for me. The people who are there in spirit.

So now as I complete this blog, doubt is gone, at least for a  while. I know I have a long 14 weeks ahead of me. I'm sure I'll come back and read this entry many times before I lace up my shoes and stand nervously at the start line of the Jacksonville Bank Marathon on December 19th, 2010.

My goal is to be standing there and have NO DOUBT that I will run my best race ever. That I have put in what I expect to get out. That I am strong, and will again experience a high that I will never be able to put into words. So I will continue to blog about my journey to that start line, and how much it parallels life in general.   

Remember you have only one chance at this life, ENJOY THE JOURNEY!    

Home Sweet Home & Exciting new products on Website!!

Home sweet home! New Jersey & Philly were great but it's so good to be back home. Back with my dogs, Aragorn at top and Maya underneath. And back to my workout schedule in the mountains!!
There are so many exciting things going on with Milestones Jewelry. If you have not checked out our website lately you really should take a minute to peruse the site at www.milestonessportsjewelry.com.  We have new categories like "Gifts for Men" and "Gifts $25 and under". It's not too soon to start your Holiday shopping. And if you are a triathlete or have one on your gift list you have got to check out all our new items in our Triathlon category! We have Christmas ornaments with runners and cyclist on them, Mesh Cinch bags for running, Triathlons or they can be used to carry just about anything, and they are only $14.99!!
And speaking of Triathletes.........Look out! My partner Christine Sparks just completed her 1st Triathlon and is already signed up for a second one! She rocked it out at the Crystal River Triathlon with a great finishing time, she's looking to improve even more at her next one in Venice, FL

Congratulations to Christine and her friend Libby!         
 That's Christine on the Right! She's drawn first blood so I guess the challenge is on for me to get into gear and do my first Triathlon. Since I'm training for the Jacksonville, FL marathon, it's been very hard for me to get my cycling and swimming in so I may have to wait until after my marathon and do my first Triathlon in the spring. Marathon training and running your own business, traveling to expos and home life is a FULL PLATE, to say the least. But I love it and I'm hoping for a great race in Jacksonville. Christine is also training for the same marathon.
Well take care, stay healthy, live life to the fullest and remember don't take a free ride in your own life!
Give it all you've got and then a little bit more. 12 mile long run for me tomorrow.......Can't wait :-)
Melody        

On the road to New Jersey & Philly Triathlon Events

Well last weekend was a Milestone Sales Record event for Milestones Sports Jewelry. The New Jersey State Triathlon in Princeton, put on by CGI Racing was a fantastic event for us and the Awesome Athletes as well. We rolled out our new line of Pewter Jewelry that includes a great Tri Pendant on an adjustable rope necklace for men. but the ladies loved it too.
The Entire line was a huge hit!!! Real Men Wear Jewelry......Tri it!!!!! Check it out at http://www.milestonessportsjewelry.com/
This coming weekend we are off to the Women's SheRox Tri in Philly. We are looking forward to another great event.Then the following weekend we wrap it up with the Jersey Girl Ti on the Jersey shore!!!
We enjoy these events so much. We meet such nice people. All ages, sizes, & shapes. They are amazing people. The first timers are so much fun to talk with. I am especially interested in picking their brains and listening to their stories because I am training for my first Triathlon, Oct. 2nd at Lake Lanier near Atlanta, GA .At the same time I'll be training for my 6th marathon in Jacksonville, FL on December 19th. Some times I think I'm crazy, but it keeps me going and keeps me focused on a specific goal. The Triathlon is a big challenge. I just bought my first road bike and am excited to get home and start my cycling training. My business partner, Christine just completed her first Triathlon this weekend at Crystal River, FL so the Challenge is on. Now she can wear all our cool Triathlon Jewelry and I can't, until I complete my first Tri. I love the Jewelry so much that it's worth it to train and complete a Triathlon. Plus it's a great new challenge for me.
Well stay healthy, and remember if you can dream it, you can achieve it!!!
In health,
Melody          

Great Triathlon events & New Milestones coming in the near future!

So many exciting things going on since my last post. Milestones Jewelry is launching a whole new line of Triathlon Jewelry. The Pendant at the left is just one example. It's pewter on an adjustable cord. It looks great on guys and girls alike. And we are pricing it so everyone can afford it. Only $19.99!!!! It's not on the website yet. But check out our Expo calendar, They will be available there and we are taking pre-orders with free shipping. Just e-mail us. WOW, things have been so exciting lately. this weekend we were at the Waterfront Tri in Chattanooga, TN, what a beautiful venue. well organized race, an Olympic distance Tri, the athletes were Awesome to say the least!! What's next? We are off the New Jersey for the New Jersey State Tri in Princeton, then SheRox  Philly, and then back to NJ for "Jersey Girl" Tri.
In Florida my partner, Christine will be at the World famous "TOP GUN" Triathlon!
After the Paris marathon I said, I'm done with marathons for a while, I was training for my first Triathlon when I realized I still have something to prove at the marathon...so I have committed to run the Jacksonville marathon on December 19th. Christine and other friends will be joining me. After that I'll go back to my Tri training and target a spring Triathlon probably in Florida.
Check out our website if you haven't done so lately, We've added a ton of great Silver and Gold charms, lots of new necklaces and bracelets and coming soon, our new line of Tri Jewelry.
Milestones Jewelry is available in Florida running stores; Fit2Run and Running Zone in Melbourne Florida. if you'd like to see our Jewelry in your favorite running store, tell the manager and owners about us.
We'll have speed work at the track today so I better get some work done. Stay tuned for lots of new and exciting things from Milestones Jewelry.
         

How to get your MOJO BACK!

WOW, I have been reading so many blogs and talking to so many people that just don't know why they can't get motivated. And unfortunately I am one of them. For once my brain is in it, but my body doesn't want to seem to follow. I have big plans, my first Triathlon among them. I joined a new fitness center with a pool, so I am a bit excited about swimming. And I went mountain biking for the time yesterday and loved it. And I have a great group of running buddies, so WHY oh Why am I still feeling unmotivated?
It's just so not me! I am usually the ring leader to motivate everyone else.
I am just slugging my way through work outs. I even bought new trail shoes, what's it going to take?
I guess you just have to lace up the shoes, put on the swim suit, drag out the bike and JUST DO IT!!

I sometimes wonder if it's more fun and motivating if you DON'T have a race planned, but then again maybe it's the reverse. I obviously don't have the answers. But I'm certainly searching for them.
I think I have more reasons to be motivated now than before. Great places to run, great weather, great friends that run together almost everyday and regardless of weather and uncontrolled forces. They are true Warriors. So what's wrong with me?

I will just keeping putting one foot in front of the other and see what happens. any suggestions are welcomed. Seems many people are experiencing the same thing as I am so you motivated folks out there please chime in, we need you.          

The really cool thing is that Milestones Sports Jewelry website is really looking great. Lots of new products and we are currently working on adding lots and lots of charms, Gold and Sterling silver. So check it out at http://www.milestonessportsjewelry.com/ and e-mail me with your suggestions on how to get my MOJO BACK~~~