Week 3 Day 3: I can't breathe!

No worries, I still have a pulse. I am however finding my two biggest issues with this 5k training is that I have difficulty keeping a pace within my ability and that I have problems properly breathing. I knew breathing correctly was going to be a problem as it always has been. The more I focus on trying to breath properly, the harder time I have breathing at all.

I started working out at the gym in the fall in hopes that by the time the weather was nice I would be able to be really active outside. I've quickly realized that running on a treadmill is completely different than running outside. It's a lot easier to maintain a comfortable pace when a machine is controlling that for you. I guess I feel like with all of the open road in front of me I really have to take off to cover as much ground as possible.

My goal this coming week will be to get a handle on these two things because week four will not be getting any easier...alternating 3 and 5 minute jogging intervals, yikes!

Couch to 5K

I've never been much of a runner. I always dreaded the day in P.E. where we had to run the mile. I often wonder how I survived the year of soccer I played in high scool. I see people running around town or running forever on the treadmill at the gym and I have always thought it was something I'd like to be able to do some day.

About a month ago a friend asked me if I would have any interest in running the Reggae Run in Cincinnati. Me? Run a 5k? Was she asking the right person?? As intimidating of 3.1 miles of running sounds I started doing research on how to improve running distance. In my research I came across a program that many were singing the praises of: The Couch to 5K Workout.

The 9 week program utilizes intervals to condition your body to be able to run and enjoy it. I've become somewhat obsessed with the program and I am currently on day 2 of week 3. I'm considering creating blog posts to share about my progress in the program. I get excited about the progress I've already made and want to share with people!

BESTeam Feature :: On Behalf Of

A small girl with big ambitions, Kate from St. Louis, uses her art as personal expression. Her life aim is to fight the injustic and ugliness of today's society. With several programs she supports, 90% of the proceeds made from her work goes toward these programs. A purchase of a beautiful piece of art from On Behalf Of goes to provide clean water in developing countries, free modern day slaves, care for orphans, or provide medical help to those with HIV. As Kate states, "This shop was created on behalf of them."

Kate asks you wear or display her art "on behalf of hope, and on behalf of the people who will receive it through the proceeds of this shop." It is so touching and great to see someone using their talent to benefit humanity.

Take a look at some of the beautiful pieces

Orphan Care - Bracelet

Your Side of the World

Red Dress Altered Photo

To not only own a beautiful piece of art, but to help a worthy cause at the same time, stop by On Behalf Of {click here}. Also stop by Kate's blog to read more about the organization's she supports.

BESTeam Feature :: Headpin Wear

As I sat down to learn a bit more about Cathy from Headpin Wear, for this week's feature I couldn't help but think, "that's exactly how I am!" The jewelry of Headpin Wear are meticulously thought out from start to finish when Cathy feels "in the mood" for designing and creating. I too share the motivation of having to create on my own time and it is not a process that can be forced. For Cathy it may take days to finish and sometimes it takes less time under rare circumstances.

The jewelry found in Headpin Wear's shop can be viewed as simplistic, high-quality work. The pieces will "complement your features, fashion and your unique style". Cathy's goal is to put a smile on the wearer's face and filling the heart and sould with peace, love and happiness.

These beautiful creations will be sure to achieve that goal!

Fluorite Faceted Round Gemstones on Blackened Brass

A Brass White Starfish combined with Pearls, Gemstones, Sterling Silver and Brass

FAB Butterfly with Czech Glass Drop Earrings

These and other great items can be found at Headpin Wear {click here}. Stop by Cathy's blog for features, food, fashion and fun! And don't forget to become a fan on Facebook...there is a great deal in store if you do :)

BESTeam Feature :: Turquoise Angels

As I'm just starting my new venture by opening a second Etsy shop, I am pleased to present this weeks featured shop. This shop, much like my newest shop, specalizes in accessories for little girls. From Purcellville, Virginia is the family owned business of Turquoise Angels. The mother-daughter design team works together to bridge the "generation gap" and bring their customers unique patterns and prints perfect for all ages. You will find handmade, stylish apparel and accessories for all ages and even different species.


An array of headbands, hair clips and tutus will be sure to delight the little diva in your life. With a multitude of colors and styles to choose from there should be something to please everyone, but if not custom orders are except for you to have just the color you may be looking for.


Tutus aren't just for the little girls in your life, they can also be for the little dog in your life as well! Yes, Doggie Diva Tutus are tutus for the four-legged family members.


Aside from the great assortment of accessories, Turquoise Angels also specializes in screen printing. If you or someone you know has an event such as a wedding or reunion approaching, Turquoise Angels can screen print shirts for your memorable event.

Sneak Peak of Items

36 Custom Screen Printed Shirts Weddings, Teams, Groups, Reunions, Special Events

Hair Bow Soft Pink and Brown with polka dots

Candy Pink and Green Dog Tutu Fits dogs 8 to 15 pounds

I hope these items have your caught your interest enough to head over to Turquoise Angel's Etsy shop {click here}. Also stop by their blog and become a fan on Facebook.