Author: Jenna

Jenna Volden has a degree in business and has spent the last 10 plus years working for others. She believes it is time to start her own photography and writing business. She enjoys running, coffee and helping others achieve their goals. Gluten-free foods are a lifestyle, not a choice, for her due to celiac disease. She is currently based in Phoenix, Arizona.

When Vacation Attacks

Posted on by Jenna

Early on a Wednesday, we packed up the car and drove the 10 hours to Yosemite National Park. We were going to spend three full days exploring the park. Thursday morning, we got up early, had a filling breakfast, and headed into the park. We were going to hike to the top of Yosemite Falls. We took our time going up and made it the 3.5 miles around lunch time. We had a picnic lunch by the river and watched people climbing on rocks a tad to close to the raging waters. After lunch and a few photos, we decided to head down. We proceeded slowly and with caution because going done was harder than up! We were nearing the end, less than half a mile from the parking lot.

The switchbacks were extra slippery due to the fresh dirt/manure mixture the Rangers were putting down that morning. We picked our way slowly and carefully down. As we turned a corner of a switchback, I suddenly slipped. I heard a pop, and then I went down. Shock set in. What had happened?? I looked down, and my ankle was about three times its usual size. At first, we thought maybe it was a bad sprain. We sat with it elevated for about 10-15 minutes. I tried to get up, but as soon as I tried to limp forward, my ankle collapsed.

At this point, I knew we had to call the Rangers.

We waited for rescue to come. Two came to assess the situation. The EMT was pretty sure it was broken based on my reactions to certain spots he touched. They asked if I could make it down on crutches. I may have laughed at that point. Could you imagine going down switchbacks on crutches? That meant I got carried out on the big wheel. It was a different way to see a trail. I could only see the sky and tops of trees. I heard over the radio there was a car accident with an altercation.

Once in the car, we headed to the Yosemite Hospital. Well, they had a hectic day and were unable to see me. We drove the 30ish minutes out of the park and another 30 minutes to Oakhurst only to have the Urgent Care not answer (despite it being 15 minutes before close). We finally found an ER about 30 minutes away.

At the ER, the doctor didn’t necessarily think it was broken at first. The X-Ray tech took her first X-Ray from the top. She looked at the image and then had me turn my right leg to the left, takes the X-Ray, looks at the picture, and then I hear,

“Ohhhh.” That was all I needed to know it was broken.

We, well I, spent Friday on the couch bingeing Deadwood and reading Alex Cross. We drove around a bit on Saturday to places I could see from the car or nearby. Sunday we headed home. I cannot recommend being a passenger in a vehicle with a splint on your broken leg for 9 hours. It wasn’t the most comfortable ride.

What I’ve Learned: Accidents happen, all you can do is accept it.

  • No matter how prepared you are, accidents still occur.
  • Sitting around is hard when you are used to being active.
  • I won’t let this deter me from future adventures.

I do have a few photos from Yosemite that I’ll be editing and adding to the shop. We tried to make the best of our shortened vacation! (We were supposed to go to Kings and Sequoia Canyon on Sunday for a few days).

What is your best worst vacation story?

Yosemite Packing

Posted on by Jenna

I’m trying to do more videos (something that scares me) and have decided one blog a month will be a vlog! I thought I’d show what I’m packing for our trip to Yosemite! So if you’ve ever wondered what I take with me, watch the video and find out!

I hope you enjoyed this little experiment! Hopefully, I will get better at these.

What do you make sure to pack when traveling?

The Struggles of Training

Posted on by Jenna

As long as I can remember, I’ve struggled with anxiety and probably a tad OCD. Not enough to affect my daily life, as I still went to school and now work every day, but just enough that my brain never seems to shut off. It’s hard to explain to people that I can’t just stop thinking about something.

My mind will spin on a problem (or thought) for hours.

My 2018 ended roughly, and now I’ve got depression on top of my general anxiety and OCD. Sleeping is hard, which makes it worse. I often wake up after 7-8 hours of sleep, feeling like I got two. I’ve been tested, and there’s nothing wrong with me. Apparently. Lately, I’ve been waking up at least an hour before my alarm and doze in and out of sleep.

The lack of good sleep could drive anyone even crazier than they already feel.

Every day I get up, and I think I will work out today. Some days I feel strong and healthy; I can do my run plus plyo or strength training. Other days I struggle to get out the door. Some days my body (strikethrough body) brain tells me everything hurts, I should give up, I should cry, and I can’t breathe. I know it’s the depression talking, so I keep going and telling myself it’s all in my head.

Whenever I need a boost, I wear my wonder woman sunglasses.

Every week I vow to do better, but something happens and throw me off. But I get back up and dust myself off to try again. It really is all about momentum. Too many days off, and I struggle to start again.

Hopefully, someday I find the magical combo of what works or days will get longer. But that’s another blog.

How do you get through when the struggle bus pulls up to your house?

What makes me click the shutter?

Posted on by Jenna

The world is full of some fantastic sites, from natural to the human-made. So how do I pick what to take a picture of when I’m out and about?

Well, it depends (I know… everyone’s favorite answer!).

I can find beauty or intrigue in almost anything. While digital allows me to shoot as much as I want, I try to be slightly more discerning in my experimenting. It sucks to have over 500 photos to weed through and edit after a weeks vacation. I take the apparent picture but then I try to take only a few artsy ones to satisfy my curiosity of would this work? Plus, I learned on film and have picked it up again, so I’m trying to slow myself down and find the right shot.

Whatever that means.

Let’s pretend I’m out in nature, maybe exploring a new to me hiking trail. Of course, I know of “the shot” everyone, and their mom takes on this trail. I will probably take at least one photo of the shot (because that’s what you do) and then I’ll start to look around. Can I get a different perspective, higher or lower maybe? What if I turn to the right or left? What’s behind me?

When I arrive at a scene, I usually take a moment to scan the area. What pops for me? Then I will get out my camera to see if the scene still works when I look through the viewfinder. Do I need to move because that tree branch now looks funny? Do I need a different angle to make a better composition? A step to the left (but not too far as I don’t want to fall off the edge!).

Sometimes, a lot of times, it doesn’t work.

Looking through the lens makes things look different. Maybe when I look through the lens, there are less distinguishing characteristics in the foreground, and everything runs together. If so, I don’t take the photo but keep looking around.

If I’m not 100% sure if the scene works, I take a test shot with my cell phone. If I like it, I shoot with my “real” camera. If not, I look again with my eye to see if I missed something. I try to work quickly and efficiently with my phone because I’m usually making someone wait.

Eventually, I’ll find something I like better to snap.

I’m usually drawn to scenes with lots of greens and blues. Blue skies, trees, the ocean tend to grab my eye first. I also love colorful rock formations like Sedona’s red rocks or the texture of hoodoos in Bryce Canyon.

If I’m in the city, skylines are an easy answer. Who doesn’t like a skyline image? You can see several different and unique architecture in one picture. There’s usually different shapes, either of the building themselves or one some detail in the building like the windows. I also love the shadows the sun and other buildings can cast. And of course, the reflections in all-glass buildings make me happy.

I’m always looking for a scene that will work well on film or in black and white. I may overshoot on my digital camera (creating more work for myself) but I will always ask will this work compositionally and light wise on film? Will it translate well to black and white?

I will always be a sucker for film and black and white images.

There’s something about those two that keep pulling me back in. They also make me slow down, be in the moment, and analyze what’s in front of me. I like that moment of really seeing the landscape in front of me to decide if this is the best I can do before I press the shutter button.

So, in short, what makes me press that little button?

  1. An interesting formation, either rocks or buildings.
  2. Something I can visualize in black and white easily.
  3. Something different or unexpected about a tourist spot.
  4. Something I want to remember for myself. (This is a big one!)

What makes you decide to take a photo?

Runs on Confidence

Posted on by Jenna

Growing up I was pretty lucky to have parents that instilled confidence in me from an early age. They encouraged me to follow my passions whether it was sports, art, or reading. I mostly ignored trends and school clicks. My parents always allowed me to be me.

My childhood was reasonably active. I’ve always liked being outside and exploring. I played sports and took dance classes. I started weight training in high school, even after I had already met my gym credit requirements. I took up running after I stopped dance classes. I ran off and on until 2012 when I became more focused on racing. I’ve belonged to multiple gyms over the years to run and lift (yes, at some point I liked the treadmill better than outdoors!).

But even with all that, I’ve still felt fat and ugly at times.

Usually, I’m pretty happy with myself. I know what my body is capable of and allows me to do the things I love like running far and lifting heavy-ish objects. But sometimes I fall into the trap. Sometimes I believe the media that says to be happy, healthy, and loved I need to be tall, thin, blonde, etc. etc., etc.

Back in high school, I used to think I was fat. I would compare myself to other dancers, at my studio and professionals. I wasn’t thin enough to be a professional ballerina, and I wasn’t tall enough to be a Rockette or cruise ship dancer. Looking back at photos and I realize I was never fat but rather average and healthy. It wasn’t my fault that the dance industry has ridiculous standards for being a professional (but that’s a whole other blog). Even now I know I’m not fat. I’m still pretty average and healthy. Can I do better? Of course, we can always do better. We will never be perfect (and that’s ok!).

Why am I telling you all this?

Because I’ve always had this pull to help women feel fit, healthy, and confident whatever way those words mean to them. We don’t all have the same ideals for those words, vision for ourselves, or even goals. I’m not 100% sure how to achieve this yet, but I thought I’d start by sharing my thoughts and story. I’ve always been interested in fitness and like reading/learning about it. Someday I want to be a running coach and/or personal trainer to help women reach their goals and feel confident in their skin.

For now, I’m going to focus on writing blog posts to address what I’ve learned and hope it can inspire others to find their confidence and start rocking who they are. I will also share resources that I’ve gotten something from or enjoyed. Maybe I’ll eventually share other women’s stories as well.

I’ve started my list of topics, but I’d love to hear your ideas! What do you want to read about here?

Disclosure:
I’m not a doctor, trainer, nutritionist, or any other kind of professional. I’ve always had a passion and interest in health, fitness, diet, and wellness. I love to learn and want to share the knowledge I’ve gained to help others. As always, do your own research and consult with your doctor.

Changing Mindsets

Posted on by Jenna

Do you ever feel like your way of thinking could be holding you back? I don’t mean optimism/pessimism; I mean your ideas and beliefs about who you are or what you do. I do. I feel as if I’ve been thinking about myself as someone who works out because it’s what we do. Not because I’m an athlete. Not because I have goals I want to hit. But because I’m a woman and we need to work out.

Well, I’m sick of this mindset. I want to change.

I want to stop thinking about things as a workout, a way to “lose weight” or “get in shape.” I mean what does the generic “get in shape” even mean? I want to focus on training for races. My end goal is not just fitness. My end goal is to finish a marathon.

And maybe get faster while I’m at it.

I need to start thinking of myself as an athlete. It’s difficult because I haven’t thought that for a long time. I grew up playing sports and dancing, but I haven’t thought of myself as athletic for about 20 years.

I do need to lose some weight, but it’s not the main focus. It’ll be the by-product of becoming a more well-rounded athlete. I need to think about food is fuel. It helps me lift heavier and run farther. Food is not my emotional support system.

Hopefully eating better and training will help with my energy level, but I need to start pushing through my low energy days. Even if I’m tired, I should do something because something is better than nothing.

I need to utilize my running coach and stick to our plan.

Weights and plyo are on the schedule because they aid in my training. They help me get faster. They help to round out my training. I’ve gotten back on track with running, stretching, and yoga. Now to get busy with everything else that’s important.

I plan to keep expanding my knowledge of running and training. I’m reading books on anatomy of running and different ideas to getting better such as ChiRunning. I’m combining what I learn to help improve myself.

What mindset do you need to change? How can you start seeing yourself differently?

March Re-Run

Posted on by Jenna

March was better than February, but I didn’t hit any of my goals. I wanted to run at least 105 miles for the month and PR in at least one of my two races. I didn’t do any of those. But you know what? I went out, and I ran. I may have skipped some days, but I gave myself the grace to do so. I know I’m struggling.

But, I keep going.

Moving forward is all we can do when we stumble. Yes, it’s easier to give up and keep taking those days off, but that just makes it harder to start again. It’s a vicious cycle.

For two of three long training runs, I failed both of them. I went out for a 14 miler and only was able to do 5. It was a run/walk combo and my slowest time ever. I didn’t give up at mile 1. I wanted to, but I told myself I had to do at least 3. I smoked those 3 and did 5 instead! My last one? I got out and at about half a mile in started crying. Yup. So I turned around and went home. I went out the next day and did some miles but definitely not a long run.

I did get 11 of 15 miles during one long run, so I call it a WIN!

I had two races this month, Kiss Me I’m Irish 8k and Wonder Woman 10k. I attempted a PR at both and came within 24 seconds at Kiss Me I’m Irish 8k. I was pushing it but not too much because I wasn’t sure how I felt. I think I could have left a little more out there and had the PR.

At Wonder Woman I spent far too much time and energy dodging large groups of walking women and children. At about mile 3 I was getting warm. This is about where we split off from the 5k. It felt nice to have some space, so I started trying to push a little. I grabbed what I thought was Nuun but turned out to be plain water. I had really needed the Nuun as it was getting hot and I could tell I was losing a lot of salt (my face felt gritty). I knew I could grab it after the turn around so kept going. That was a mistake because I didn’t realize how far out the turn around was. I finally realized around mile 4.5 that I wasn’t going to PR and let myself have a few walk breaks. I did get my Nuun on the way back, even asking to verify it was Nuun. Once I hit the spot where we rejoined the 5k people I had more walkers to contend with as well as crowds gathering of those that were spectating. I had to weave some more.

I may not have PR’d either race, but I had fun trying.

It’s disappointing yes but pushing myself and testing where I’m at in training is fun for me. I don’t always force myself when I have an “easy run” day, so I’m not always aware of my progress or capabilities. I downplay my runs. “I’m slow” “I’m a proud mid-packer” Yes, I am all of that, but I’m also out there most days working my butt off to get better.

How was your March? Did you reach your goals?

Are you on a quest?

Posted on by Jenna

I recently started and finished, The Happiness of Pursuit* by Chris Guillebeau. Somewhere along the line, it was recommended, either by someone on social media or some article.

I thought the topic of the book seemed interesting and hadn’t thought of myself pursuing a quest.

It turns out I already am pursuing three quests!

One of the stories in the book is the attempt to go to every MLB stadium. Well… I am already doing that! As well as every NHL arena and every National Park (and as many National Monuments and State Parks as humanly possible). I never sat down and decided to do this as a quest. I didn’t set a timeline or end, but they naturally evolved as I went about my goals.

Although I think some of the quests in the book are nuts, it was still a great read and fun to see what makes others happy. I don’t have the desire to travel to every country or walk across one. Or ride my bike around the world I realized we all have our own pursuits.

It’s interesting to read what others picked and why. Also, the lessons learned by these individuals can be applied universally.

The book was a good reminder that you aren’t a failure if you don’t complete a quest. Your goals and path can change. As long as you reevaluate WHY you are changing your goals, it’s not a failure. Plans and people change. Your quest doesn’t define you. You should learn and grow and as you do your priorities may change.

The book is a reminder that it is the journey, not the destination that brings us the most joy.

What book(s) have you read recently that you connected to? What did you take from it?

*I’m an Amazon Associate and if you purchase through this link I will receive a few cents.

2019 Race Schedule

Posted on by Jenna

I know we are already into the third month of the year, but I’ve pretty much decided on my race schedule for spring. (And a few for winter as well). I will try to remember to update with times and info after each race. I’ll also link to any race reports I typed up.

I am doing the Cactus Flower Trail Series again this year and hope to improve my times even more from last year. My plan is to go out on my Mondays off and get my miles on the same, or similar, trails.

I will probably add a Thanksgiving day Turkey Trot (fun family tradition), and maybe another fun run in December. I love Christmas themed races!

January
5th Resolution Run 5K – small race (maybe 60-70 people), came in 3rd in my age group
6th Resolution Run 5K – hilly course but I was prepared, thought I did really well (for me/the course), and LOVE the medal
19th Rock n Roll 5k – shake out run, took it pretty easy
20th Rock n Roll Half Marathon – Ugh, awful run, you can read the blog about it. I don’t want to think about it anymore. LOL

February
No races scheduled

March
16th Kiss Me I’m Irish 8K – Goal: finish in 52 minutes
24th Wonder Woman 10K – Goal: finish under 60 minutes (That will be a STRETCH)

April
20th Saguaro 7K

May
4th Grandad Half Marathon – Goal: PR with 2:20 or better
11th Desert Marigold 6K
25th Estrella Cactus 5K

June

July
HA! Who would race this time of year in Phoenix?

August

September

October
12th Estrella Cactus 5K

November
16th Desert Marigold 6K

December
7th Saguaro 7K

routine

February 2019 Re-Run

Posted on by Jenna

February was not my month. It was to be another 100+ mile month, and I ended up with 40.7.

The month started with a trip to Dallas and Nashville. I usually have no problem running while on vacation, but this trip was relatively short with lots of air travel. I didn’t even bother taking running clothes with me because I knew I’d be exhausted. I was.

We got back from our trip, and I jumped right back into my plan. And it was going well for a few days. Then we had some out of town visitors and the plan kind of went out the window. I did what I could but weekdays were more difficult with work and leaving time for our visitors.

Then in the middle of the visit, I get a sinus infection. Yay.

For most people, they can run through sinus infections or head colds. My body seems to use all it’s energy to fight it. I had no strength to run. I even stayed home from work for two days, which is extremely rare for me. I usually will go to work (as long as I’m not contagious), but I needed so much more sleep and rest.

Once our visitors left, I took the last few days of February as rest days with the intention of starting March fresh and ready to go. I’ve still got a few sinus issues and a lingering cough, but I’m feeling much better. I’m running at about 99% and ready to tackle March!

How was your February? Did you conquer your goals?