Thanks again for everybody's very kind words! You all know how to lift a person's spirits. :)
Monday night I met some friends from work for a great dinner to celebrate my good friend Lisa's promotion to Police Sergeant (she's on the right in the picture). Yaaaay Lisa!!! We all had a great time talking about old work stories, old romances (and laughing at those) and all kinds of funny, present day stuff.
On the way there (2+ hours) I literally sat and kind of rolled on a tennis ball and it worked WONDERS on my sore spots, the piriformis and the hamstring tendinopathy. It was like 2 hours of trigger point therapy. It hurt, but I tell ya' I feel a thousand times better. I also sat on it on the way home. I will never underestimate the tennis ball on pressure points again!
Yesterday I was able to do a solid 11 mile run on the treadmill. 5 of those miles were the Newton Hills Simulation workout and I ran that entire portion at an equivalent 7:08 pace. I say equivalent because you have to adjust your speed on the hills but you still put out the even effort as you would on the flats.
After a quick pitstop, I did another 4 miles on the hill program setting of the treadmill, slightly slower than tempo pace and during the flats I ran at marathon goal pace. My butt started to get sore toward the end, but overall no pain and no problems! Thanks to the tennis ball.
Anyway I was cooked, done, toast, by the last mile. I was so dehydrated that I couldn't even talk to my husband and kids afterward and it took a good 2 hours for my body to feel normal again. I slowly ate and drank and eventually it got into my system and I felt better. I have to remember to bring water to the gym next time. Hello!
This morning I met the gals for an easy 4 mile run followed by 6 strides. It felt great. I think I'm at about 80%.
Tomorrow I will run a hard workout with them again and then it's a very busy day with the family. But we will end the day on a GREAT note. Out for a pizza dinner and then I get to watch THE SPIRIT OF THE MARATHON. Woo hoo, I cannot wait! My hubby and kids opted not to watch it. (I think they just don't share the same love of marathons as I do). ;)
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Ryan Hall's Blog Entry on TheFinalSprint.com
THIS couldn't have come at a better time. As you know by my last entry, I've been feeling sorry for myself. After the NY Giants won the playoffs in an incredible game against the Packers, my spirits were lifted a bit (I like rooting for the least favorite). But I digress.
I stumbled upon Ryan Hall's first blog for TheFinalSprint and it was so uplifting. He reminded me of my faith and that through the Lord I will always 'get up.' I will always be lifted through Him. So thanks Ryan Hall!
Anyway my two running partners got in touch with me lastnight and realized that I was having an "injured" moment and just feeling down on myself. They were so nice, they kept reassuring me that I am always welcome to run with them, no matter what pace I go, and that I never finish too far behind them. I guess when I'm out there at 5 a.m. it just feels like I'm way behind! But they're right, I'm usually within 10seconds and always within earshot and sight. I just have to rehab my minor injuries a bit and I'll be back to running with them.
DawnB also had such encouraging words. I loved it when she said, "It's always better to trail behind than not trail at all." So true! Thanks Dawn. :)
Well I enjoyed the day off of running today. Went to church, gave the dog a bath, gave the toddler a bath, watched the football games. I also made the decision to run a 50K a month after Boston. It will either be the Ohlone 50K or the Quicksilver 50K. My friend from highschool, Danny, will be running his 4th Ohlone this year. Knowing someone on the trail is almost enough to inspire me to pick that one. But I hear the Quicksilver 50K is a tiny bit easier...so I dunno. Either way, I'm doing one and I can't wait!!!
I stumbled upon Ryan Hall's first blog for TheFinalSprint and it was so uplifting. He reminded me of my faith and that through the Lord I will always 'get up.' I will always be lifted through Him. So thanks Ryan Hall!
Anyway my two running partners got in touch with me lastnight and realized that I was having an "injured" moment and just feeling down on myself. They were so nice, they kept reassuring me that I am always welcome to run with them, no matter what pace I go, and that I never finish too far behind them. I guess when I'm out there at 5 a.m. it just feels like I'm way behind! But they're right, I'm usually within 10seconds and always within earshot and sight. I just have to rehab my minor injuries a bit and I'll be back to running with them.
DawnB also had such encouraging words. I loved it when she said, "It's always better to trail behind than not trail at all." So true! Thanks Dawn. :)
Well I enjoyed the day off of running today. Went to church, gave the dog a bath, gave the toddler a bath, watched the football games. I also made the decision to run a 50K a month after Boston. It will either be the Ohlone 50K or the Quicksilver 50K. My friend from highschool, Danny, will be running his 4th Ohlone this year. Knowing someone on the trail is almost enough to inspire me to pick that one. But I hear the Quicksilver 50K is a tiny bit easier...so I dunno. Either way, I'm doing one and I can't wait!!!
Saturday, January 19, 2008
A Little Sad
Oh this might be a long entry, but I'm feeling a little sad. I moved to this sweet little town in 2004 and I love it. It's peaceful and pretty safe and a good place to raise a family. My husband grew up here. But I left behind some dear friends (who thankfully still include me in their lives) and the full time job that I truly love.
I don't regret moving here, I don't regret my decision to stay home with the kids and work only part time hours. I'm just a little melancholy. It's been hard to make close friends of my own, like the ones I had where I used to live. I've made a few here, but not the kinds I feel I can really be myself with. I thought that changed a few months ago when I met and began running with a few of the gals from the running club.
Just when I started to feel really comfortable with them, like with my other friends from my old town, things are falling by the wayside. I was training with them and it was great. But now they are training faster and faster for every workout and I just can't keep up. It's okay to finish behind them (I always have), but sometimes doing so just makes me doubt myself as a runner. And when I try to keep up, I get injured. So it's either risk more injury, or train on my own.
I have to just train alone...again. :( I did it for my last 3 marathons, and I can do it for this one. I'm just going to miss the camaraderie I shared with these women.
I'm discouraged because I wonder if I'll ever really feel AT HOME here. I wonder if I'll ever really make lifelong friendships here. My husband is so sweet, and he listened to me as I talked about this. And he said he was sorry and I KNOW he meant it. But it's not his fault and I don't regret the life decisions I've made. I just hope to feel really happy here someday, with my own friends and not ones I've made through my husband. Thanks for reading.
I don't regret moving here, I don't regret my decision to stay home with the kids and work only part time hours. I'm just a little melancholy. It's been hard to make close friends of my own, like the ones I had where I used to live. I've made a few here, but not the kinds I feel I can really be myself with. I thought that changed a few months ago when I met and began running with a few of the gals from the running club.
Just when I started to feel really comfortable with them, like with my other friends from my old town, things are falling by the wayside. I was training with them and it was great. But now they are training faster and faster for every workout and I just can't keep up. It's okay to finish behind them (I always have), but sometimes doing so just makes me doubt myself as a runner. And when I try to keep up, I get injured. So it's either risk more injury, or train on my own.
I have to just train alone...again. :( I did it for my last 3 marathons, and I can do it for this one. I'm just going to miss the camaraderie I shared with these women.
I'm discouraged because I wonder if I'll ever really feel AT HOME here. I wonder if I'll ever really make lifelong friendships here. My husband is so sweet, and he listened to me as I talked about this. And he said he was sorry and I KNOW he meant it. But it's not his fault and I don't regret the life decisions I've made. I just hope to feel really happy here someday, with my own friends and not ones I've made through my husband. Thanks for reading.
Friday, January 18, 2008
BLAH
I ran today, against my better judgement. I pushed the bambino in the stroller and we did 9.25 together. Sandwiched in the middle were supposed to be 2 miles at goal pace (prescribed at 7:26'ish), 2 at tempo (prescribed between 7:00-7:14) and 2 at goal pace. I hit the paces for the first 4 miles, but immediately after the tempo miles I started hacking fiercely and clearing out all kinds of phlegm. Nice. And it hurt to cough, too. So the last 2 miles were 7:43 and 7:39, about 15 seconds slower than where I was supposed to be. I was sucking wind.
I will say that today's run just plain HURT all over. In my chest, in my glutes and hammies, in my back. Just not my strongest run. I am crossing my fingers that this chest congestion is on its way out. I finished my last antibiotic today and I don't want to take anymore meds!
After getting the baby down for his nap, I stood in the 40-degree pool for 10 minutes, then moved around for 10, then back in the cold for 10. I will stretch a lot tonight, and roll on the foam roller. I've been doing my CrossFit warm up exercises faithfully, but not any of the hard workouts yet. I'm just afraid of making this piriformis/hamstring issue worse.
On a GOOD NOTE: I have lost 5 pounds since I started watching my portions and calorie counting (on January 1). The first 3 days were the roughest and I felt starving all the time, but now my body has adjusted and I'm not super hungry all that often. I am still eating the foods I love, and even drinking wine, but just in much smaller amounts than before. I went from taking in about 2600 cals/day to roughly 1900 cals/day. I'm happy with the results. My goal is 120-124 lbs.
Okay, time to go get warm. Thanks for listening to my whining!
I will say that today's run just plain HURT all over. In my chest, in my glutes and hammies, in my back. Just not my strongest run. I am crossing my fingers that this chest congestion is on its way out. I finished my last antibiotic today and I don't want to take anymore meds!
After getting the baby down for his nap, I stood in the 40-degree pool for 10 minutes, then moved around for 10, then back in the cold for 10. I will stretch a lot tonight, and roll on the foam roller. I've been doing my CrossFit warm up exercises faithfully, but not any of the hard workouts yet. I'm just afraid of making this piriformis/hamstring issue worse.
On a GOOD NOTE: I have lost 5 pounds since I started watching my portions and calorie counting (on January 1). The first 3 days were the roughest and I felt starving all the time, but now my body has adjusted and I'm not super hungry all that often. I am still eating the foods I love, and even drinking wine, but just in much smaller amounts than before. I went from taking in about 2600 cals/day to roughly 1900 cals/day. I'm happy with the results. My goal is 120-124 lbs.
Okay, time to go get warm. Thanks for listening to my whining!
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Official Cal 10 Results
I just sneaked a peak at the website and I came in 8th overall female, and first in age group of 35-39. Yippee!
But man, does my butt hurt. Piriformis issues are baaaad right now. I have got to cut that off before it gets worse. More stretching and more rolling on the foam roller.
In the meantime, I am still hacking up a lot of crud and my nose will not stop running. Yuck. I'm just thankful (knock on wood) that my body feels better. I'm hoping it stays that way.
But man, does my butt hurt. Piriformis issues are baaaad right now. I have got to cut that off before it gets worse. More stretching and more rolling on the foam roller.
In the meantime, I am still hacking up a lot of crud and my nose will not stop running. Yuck. I'm just thankful (knock on wood) that my body feels better. I'm hoping it stays that way.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
CAL 10 Race Report
Hey there! I am very happy with the race today. I really wasn't feelin' it when I got there, and I was hurting during our warm up jog. But something clicked and all was good.
Long story short, ran the 10 miles in 1:11:26 (averaging a 7:08/mile pace).
Splits were:
7:04
7:06
7:13 (uphill then a downhill)
7:09
7:10
7:04
7:14 (uphill and downhill again)
7:06
7:08
6:49
In the first mile I nestled in with a great group of ladies who were trucking along a little over a 7:00 pace and stayed with them for the first 6 miles. (My 6 mile time was 42:46). Today was so great because it felt like I was truly racing and not just trying to hit a pace. We even alternated spots to help each other in the light headwind.
Then the leader of our "pack" took off and I stayed on her coat tails until mile 7 when she flew away like a bird. The others were behind me. I ran along side a man probably in his 50's and he was awesome to pace with. He finally said, "Can you catch her?" And I said, "I'll try." And I left him, but could not catch the bird.
Started to hurt a little and felt a QUICK calf seizure, but got rid of it and managed to kick it home at a 6:50 mile for the last one.
I seriously gave it EVERYTHING I had today and I am so happy with the result. I didn't get the sub-70 t-shirt, but I think if I hadn't been sick all week I might have had a chance.
Official age group results weren't up when we had to leave so I don't know who placed where, but my training partner, Kim, won the entire female division with 1:04! Smokin'!
Okay, time to EAT. I'm starving.
Thanks for the well wishes and good thoughts. I feel so much better. I think it shook this cold right outta me.
Long story short, ran the 10 miles in 1:11:26 (averaging a 7:08/mile pace).
Splits were:
7:04
7:06
7:13 (uphill then a downhill)
7:09
7:10
7:04
7:14 (uphill and downhill again)
7:06
7:08
6:49
In the first mile I nestled in with a great group of ladies who were trucking along a little over a 7:00 pace and stayed with them for the first 6 miles. (My 6 mile time was 42:46). Today was so great because it felt like I was truly racing and not just trying to hit a pace. We even alternated spots to help each other in the light headwind.
Then the leader of our "pack" took off and I stayed on her coat tails until mile 7 when she flew away like a bird. The others were behind me. I ran along side a man probably in his 50's and he was awesome to pace with. He finally said, "Can you catch her?" And I said, "I'll try." And I left him, but could not catch the bird.
Started to hurt a little and felt a QUICK calf seizure, but got rid of it and managed to kick it home at a 6:50 mile for the last one.
I seriously gave it EVERYTHING I had today and I am so happy with the result. I didn't get the sub-70 t-shirt, but I think if I hadn't been sick all week I might have had a chance.
Official age group results weren't up when we had to leave so I don't know who placed where, but my training partner, Kim, won the entire female division with 1:04! Smokin'!
Okay, time to EAT. I'm starving.
Thanks for the well wishes and good thoughts. I feel so much better. I think it shook this cold right outta me.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Cowboy Up
You know, my mind plays so many tricks on me. I woke up Friday morning still feeling sick, but my body was no longer tingling or feeling week. My nose was stuffy and I began coughing up a LOT of green gunk, so I knew I was on the mend. After dropping the kids off at school I strapped the bebe into the jogger and off we went for a 7 mile run. Before we left, I was so NERVOUS. I just kept running through all the excuses as to why I shouldn't run, but in the end I just told myself to get moving and it worked. I ran nice and easy and felt great.
Today was another "better" day. Same green stuff clearing out of me, finally, and same nose issues. Either stuffy or runny. Oh well, I went for a run anyway and managed 5.6 at about an 8:20 pace. Didn't feel too bad. At times I felt like I was floating. Heh, could be the cold meds.
Well tomorrow is where I have to Cowboy Up.
COWBOY UP means: tuff-up, get back on yer horse, don't back down, don't give up, and do the best you can with the hand you're dealt. Damn skippy!
As nervous as I am, I just have to get back in the saddle and RACE. I might not be as fast as I'd like, but damn it, I'm going to try. My goal for the 10 mile race tomorrow is to finish without hacking up a lung and hopefully I'll manage that in about 1:15. My original goal before getting sick and missing a week of training was 1:10. We'll see if I even break 1:20.
I'll report again in the next couple of days. Yippe ki yay!
Today was another "better" day. Same green stuff clearing out of me, finally, and same nose issues. Either stuffy or runny. Oh well, I went for a run anyway and managed 5.6 at about an 8:20 pace. Didn't feel too bad. At times I felt like I was floating. Heh, could be the cold meds.
Well tomorrow is where I have to Cowboy Up.
COWBOY UP means: tuff-up, get back on yer horse, don't back down, don't give up, and do the best you can with the hand you're dealt. Damn skippy!
As nervous as I am, I just have to get back in the saddle and RACE. I might not be as fast as I'd like, but damn it, I'm going to try. My goal for the 10 mile race tomorrow is to finish without hacking up a lung and hopefully I'll manage that in about 1:15. My original goal before getting sick and missing a week of training was 1:10. We'll see if I even break 1:20. I'll report again in the next couple of days. Yippe ki yay!
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Marathon Woman- KV Switzer #261
Another person who regularly visits the Runner's World Forums started this thread, and it gave me a huge laugh when I read it. It cheered me up yesterday when I was feeling pretty sick. Thanks Pascal!
And by the way, I'm still feeling pretty sick. I have got to see the positive side of not running through the sickness, rather than hang on to the downside of missing workouts. Thanks Kirk/Gettin Older for reminding me of this. :)
In the meantime, I've finished Kathrine Switzer's book, Marathon Woman. I have another running hero to add to the list. I wish I could thank her in person for everything she's done to make women's running what it is today. I literally cried when I read the last chapter of the book. I can't imagine the pride and triumph she felt when she watched Joan Benoit in 1984. Terrific stuff! I HIGHLY recommend this book to men and women. I hope I can meet her in Boston this year!
And by the way, I'm still feeling pretty sick. I have got to see the positive side of not running through the sickness, rather than hang on to the downside of missing workouts. Thanks Kirk/Gettin Older for reminding me of this. :)
In the meantime, I've finished Kathrine Switzer's book, Marathon Woman. I have another running hero to add to the list. I wish I could thank her in person for everything she's done to make women's running what it is today. I literally cried when I read the last chapter of the book. I can't imagine the pride and triumph she felt when she watched Joan Benoit in 1984. Terrific stuff! I HIGHLY recommend this book to men and women. I hope I can meet her in Boston this year!
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Ugh.
I do not like being sick.
First day of marathon training... down the drain.
I'm fighting off the flu or something. My body feels like crap and I feel light headed. My throat is sore and scratchy.
Waaaaaah, waaaaaaah, waaaaaaaah.
I wannnnnna runnnnnn. :(
Oh well, I have to think of the big picture and stay as healthy as possible rather than push through it and risk getting worse. I'm hoping to be back to my old self in a day or two.
I'm supposed to race this Sunday, my first 10 miler. We'll see how that goes.
First day of marathon training... down the drain.
I'm fighting off the flu or something. My body feels like crap and I feel light headed. My throat is sore and scratchy.
Waaaaaah, waaaaaaah, waaaaaaaah.
I wannnnnna runnnnnn. :(
Oh well, I have to think of the big picture and stay as healthy as possible rather than push through it and risk getting worse. I'm hoping to be back to my old self in a day or two.
I'm supposed to race this Sunday, my first 10 miler. We'll see how that goes.
Monday, January 07, 2008
50th Anniversary Pictures
Here are a few photos from my parents 50th Anniversary celebration. These pics were taken at the renewal of vows ceremony/mass. I still can't believe they've been married 50 years! Ain't love grand? :)
The grandchildren's blessings
Mom and Dad with Father Bill
The family
The grandchildren's blessings
Mom and Dad with Father Bill
The family
Sunday, January 06, 2008
First Week of January
It's been a fun week and I'm a little sad that the kids are going back to school next week. At least we ended on a high note, celebrating my parent's 50th wedding anniversary. They renewed their vows in front of family and friends and threw a nice party afterward.
Quick log on running:
Thursday 1/3: 9.1 miles with marathon goal pace and tempo mixed in. 2 @ 7:30/avg, 2 @ 7:04 avg, 2 @ 7:28 avg.
Friday 1/4: 9 miles on the TM at gym, 8:35/avg pace
Saturday 1/5: rest
Today 1/6 (HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOM AND DAD): 11 @ 7:59/mile avg.
Ran the first 5 at an avg 8:12 pace and the last 6 at avg 7:48 pace. Felt good, but my right piriformis acted up a little.
Going to rest tomorrow and start "official" training on Tuesday.
Quick log on running:
Thursday 1/3: 9.1 miles with marathon goal pace and tempo mixed in. 2 @ 7:30/avg, 2 @ 7:04 avg, 2 @ 7:28 avg.
Friday 1/4: 9 miles on the TM at gym, 8:35/avg pace
Saturday 1/5: rest
Today 1/6 (HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOM AND DAD): 11 @ 7:59/mile avg.
Ran the first 5 at an avg 8:12 pace and the last 6 at avg 7:48 pace. Felt good, but my right piriformis acted up a little.
Going to rest tomorrow and start "official" training on Tuesday.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Happy New Year!
It's 2008. Hmm, not a whole lot has changed since yesterday. :)
I ran 8.6 miles today while the toddler was napping and my hubby and kids hung out at home. I warmed up w/ 15 minutes at an 8:46 pace. Included in that were 4 x 100 meter strides. Then I ran 4 x 1 mile cruise intervals with 2 minutes recovery jog in between. The intervals were 6:53, 6:54, 6:59, 6:53. I really DID feel terrible during the 3rd interval. It was hard to get into my groove and I was surprised I did it in less than 7 minutes. The other three were right within my recommended paces for cruise intervals, so I was pleased. After one month of relaxed running it felt good to speed things up.
Do I have a resolution? I guess a couple of them. Eat healthier choices to slim down for better racing. I'd like to get down to 120 pounds.
I also want to read the Bible for at least 15 minutes a day.
I don't like calling these goals "resolutions." I'll just call them lifestyle choices instead. Eh, whatever works.
Happy New Year and best wishes for a wonderful 2008!
I ran 8.6 miles today while the toddler was napping and my hubby and kids hung out at home. I warmed up w/ 15 minutes at an 8:46 pace. Included in that were 4 x 100 meter strides. Then I ran 4 x 1 mile cruise intervals with 2 minutes recovery jog in between. The intervals were 6:53, 6:54, 6:59, 6:53. I really DID feel terrible during the 3rd interval. It was hard to get into my groove and I was surprised I did it in less than 7 minutes. The other three were right within my recommended paces for cruise intervals, so I was pleased. After one month of relaxed running it felt good to speed things up.
Do I have a resolution? I guess a couple of them. Eat healthier choices to slim down for better racing. I'd like to get down to 120 pounds.
I also want to read the Bible for at least 15 minutes a day.
I don't like calling these goals "resolutions." I'll just call them lifestyle choices instead. Eh, whatever works.
Happy New Year and best wishes for a wonderful 2008!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Last Day of 2007
What a wonderful year it has been. I have my health, my children do too and so does my husband. And we all have one another and we all love each other. The Lord loves me and I feel blessed. I just feel like shouting up to the sky, "Thank you, thank you, thank you!"
I'm about to eat a quick and late lunch, but wanted to log my "long" run from yesterday. 11 miles with Cheryl and Ali, mid afternoon. It was cold and windy. We finished 8.6 miles together at an average pace of 7:53/mile. I ran the balance by myself and the overall avg. for the 11 was 7:55/mile. Felt great! No pains, aches or twinges.
I rolled on the foam roller last night for the first time in months, and boy did that feel uncomfortable. I also did 2 sets of 10 jumping pull ups, and I am so sore! I can't wait to get back into CrossFit regularly. I miss it!
Have a wonderful New Year's Eve and a very, very Happy New Year. Be safe!
I'm about to eat a quick and late lunch, but wanted to log my "long" run from yesterday. 11 miles with Cheryl and Ali, mid afternoon. It was cold and windy. We finished 8.6 miles together at an average pace of 7:53/mile. I ran the balance by myself and the overall avg. for the 11 was 7:55/mile. Felt great! No pains, aches or twinges.
I rolled on the foam roller last night for the first time in months, and boy did that feel uncomfortable. I also did 2 sets of 10 jumping pull ups, and I am so sore! I can't wait to get back into CrossFit regularly. I miss it!
Have a wonderful New Year's Eve and a very, very Happy New Year. Be safe!
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Mellow Week
Hi! I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas. We had a great week. Lots of family time, lots of great grub and lots of easy, fun running with the gals. Let's see, here's a quick recap of the week as far as running goes.
Christmas Eve: 4 miles pushing the baby in the jogger (avg 9:00 pace).
Christmas Day: REST :)
12/26: 6 miles at 5 a.m. w/ the gals (avg 8:11 pace).
12/27: 6 miles again, 5 a.m., same partners (avg 8:16 pace)
12/28: 0 (had to leave for work at 4:30 a.m. and did not get home until 7:50 p.m.).
Today: undecided, might run 6 w/ the baby in the jogger, might just rest.
The gals and I decided to start marathon training the week of Jan. 7 and then take only a 2 week taper before Boston. I'm good with that.
A great marathon debut story about my coworker, Brian:
While at work yesterday I ran into him after a carstop. His primary fitness "expertise" is triathlons. However he does race distances up to the half marathon (his PR set in '06 is 1:15).
This guy is so nice and very humble, despite his talent as an athlete. Even though he wins a lot, I still feel amazed each time I hear of his latest race (usually through other coworkers).
Anyway, he asked how I did at the CIM and when I told him his eyes got really wide and he seemed so excited for me, (it was kind of funny really). He shook my hand and gave me a hardy congrats. Then he said he was so inspired by my marathon success over the last year that he decided to run the CIM too! I did not know he had run it.
I asked him how he did and he kind of looked to the ground almost disappointed and said, "2:59." My jaw dropped. AMAZING!
I know a sub-3 marathon debut has been done before, just not by anyone I knew personally. This just blew me away. I was so proud of him!
Anyway, he ran the first half in 1:20 and said he felt great up until the later teens, then he crashed and crashed hard. He said in retrospect his downfall was that he went out way too fast and just couldn't hold onto it. He is excited for his next marathon effort in the fall of '08. He opted not to run Boston because that's when his triathlon season is underway. Triathlons are his true love.
I felt touched that he said I inspired him to run the marathon distance. Me. Ha! I am nowhere in this man's league as far as running, yet I inspired HIM. I still have to laugh because it seems so ridiculous (but in a good way)!!!
Thanks for reading, just wanted to share.
Christmas Eve: 4 miles pushing the baby in the jogger (avg 9:00 pace).
Christmas Day: REST :)
12/26: 6 miles at 5 a.m. w/ the gals (avg 8:11 pace).
12/27: 6 miles again, 5 a.m., same partners (avg 8:16 pace)
12/28: 0 (had to leave for work at 4:30 a.m. and did not get home until 7:50 p.m.).
Today: undecided, might run 6 w/ the baby in the jogger, might just rest.
The gals and I decided to start marathon training the week of Jan. 7 and then take only a 2 week taper before Boston. I'm good with that.
A great marathon debut story about my coworker, Brian:
While at work yesterday I ran into him after a carstop. His primary fitness "expertise" is triathlons. However he does race distances up to the half marathon (his PR set in '06 is 1:15).
This guy is so nice and very humble, despite his talent as an athlete. Even though he wins a lot, I still feel amazed each time I hear of his latest race (usually through other coworkers).
Anyway, he asked how I did at the CIM and when I told him his eyes got really wide and he seemed so excited for me, (it was kind of funny really). He shook my hand and gave me a hardy congrats. Then he said he was so inspired by my marathon success over the last year that he decided to run the CIM too! I did not know he had run it.
I asked him how he did and he kind of looked to the ground almost disappointed and said, "2:59." My jaw dropped. AMAZING!
I know a sub-3 marathon debut has been done before, just not by anyone I knew personally. This just blew me away. I was so proud of him!
Anyway, he ran the first half in 1:20 and said he felt great up until the later teens, then he crashed and crashed hard. He said in retrospect his downfall was that he went out way too fast and just couldn't hold onto it. He is excited for his next marathon effort in the fall of '08. He opted not to run Boston because that's when his triathlon season is underway. Triathlons are his true love.
I felt touched that he said I inspired him to run the marathon distance. Me. Ha! I am nowhere in this man's league as far as running, yet I inspired HIM. I still have to laugh because it seems so ridiculous (but in a good way)!!!
Thanks for reading, just wanted to share.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Beautiful Sunday
Hey there, went to church this morning and then met my husband for coffee. We also ran a couple of errands. I can't believe Christmas is only 2 days away. I think we're ready!
I was able to break away from all the preparations and meet the gals for a 10 mile run this afternoon. They promised to run "slow." Well, it was slower than yesterday morning so I can't complain but we still averaged a 7:57 mile for the 10 miles. I was hoping for 8:30s. Oh well.
I made a boatload of deviled eggs tonight, wrapped some presents and vacuumed. This is disgusting to admit, but I still haven't showered since my run and it's almost 11:00 p.m. I am going to shower as soon as I log off the computer. Tomorrow the baby and I will run a couple miles, or 4, and then we will have dinner with my hubby and his fire crew. They are cooking up a great, big, Christmas Eve feast. The best part is he gets to be home for Christmas!!!
Have a great Christmas Eve and a very, Merry, Blessed Christmas! God Bless.
I was able to break away from all the preparations and meet the gals for a 10 mile run this afternoon. They promised to run "slow." Well, it was slower than yesterday morning so I can't complain but we still averaged a 7:57 mile for the 10 miles. I was hoping for 8:30s. Oh well.
I made a boatload of deviled eggs tonight, wrapped some presents and vacuumed. This is disgusting to admit, but I still haven't showered since my run and it's almost 11:00 p.m. I am going to shower as soon as I log off the computer. Tomorrow the baby and I will run a couple miles, or 4, and then we will have dinner with my hubby and his fire crew. They are cooking up a great, big, Christmas Eve feast. The best part is he gets to be home for Christmas!!!
Have a great Christmas Eve and a very, Merry, Blessed Christmas! God Bless.
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Running Club
This morning the toddler and I ran 2 miles together before we met up with the running club to do 6 more. I just did the math and we ended up doing the 6 miles at a 7:36 pace. Yes, I felt I had to do my best to keep up with my fellow marathon training partners, Cheryl, Ali and Kim. They finished faster than me, but they pushed me so I can't complain. I love running with them!
I was sore afterward so I stood in the FREAKING COLD pool. I could only stand 10 minutes of it before I jumped out.
Anyway I have been feeling a little under the weather in the last couple of days, really yucky yesterday, and now I feel DIZZY. I know I've taken in plenty of fluids. I wonder if I am falling victim to the ever mysterious "bug" that keeps floating around during this time of year. I need to go eat or something.
It felt good to run faster today. Tomorrow I meet with Ali and Cheryl for a "slow burn" run (basically around 8:30s). I should end up with about 30-34 miles for the week.
I was sore afterward so I stood in the FREAKING COLD pool. I could only stand 10 minutes of it before I jumped out.
Anyway I have been feeling a little under the weather in the last couple of days, really yucky yesterday, and now I feel DIZZY. I know I've taken in plenty of fluids. I wonder if I am falling victim to the ever mysterious "bug" that keeps floating around during this time of year. I need to go eat or something.
It felt good to run faster today. Tomorrow I meet with Ali and Cheryl for a "slow burn" run (basically around 8:30s). I should end up with about 30-34 miles for the week.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Base Building
Still logging the miles, not too easy but not hard at all.
Ran 6 (easy pace) yesterday at 5 a.m. with my training partners, Ali, Cheryl and Kim. We ran at an avg. 8:18 pace. They are still much faster than me so I know they probably held back for me quite a bit yesterday. They are all so nice and encouraging. It's great to run with them.
Today the toddler and I got out for another 6 miles during a break in the rain. Averaged 8:42/mile. It felt tougher pushing him today. My butt is still aching on both sides and sometimes the discomfort runs down my hamstrings. I know this is that aggravating piriformis syndrome. Ugh. I'm torn. I want to start running hard very soon, but I don't want to make these nagging little aches worse. I need to stick to my training paces and recovery runs for a while.
Ran 6 (easy pace) yesterday at 5 a.m. with my training partners, Ali, Cheryl and Kim. We ran at an avg. 8:18 pace. They are still much faster than me so I know they probably held back for me quite a bit yesterday. They are all so nice and encouraging. It's great to run with them.
Today the toddler and I got out for another 6 miles during a break in the rain. Averaged 8:42/mile. It felt tougher pushing him today. My butt is still aching on both sides and sometimes the discomfort runs down my hamstrings. I know this is that aggravating piriformis syndrome. Ugh. I'm torn. I want to start running hard very soon, but I don't want to make these nagging little aches worse. I need to stick to my training paces and recovery runs for a while.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Rainy Day (Lazy Day)
Went into work to take care of some stuff this morning and now that I'm back home, I don't feel like running. Of course the fact that it's raining outside has something to do with my lack of motivation too. I wish I felt more drive to get out there, but since I'm still not technically in "training," I don't mind taking it easy until then. I know I will push myself as much as possible during the training cycle though.
I ran an easy 5.4 miles yesterday at about an 8:23 pace. Felt pretty good, but still have lingering soreness in my piriformis area and behind the knee (outer portion). Not terrible piriformis issues like before, just a hint of it.
Tomorrow I've committed to Ali to run at 5 a.m., rain or shine. Hee hee, I hope I get out there!
It helps to know that elite runners like Nate Pennington took 2 full weeks off after the CIM and that he felt some soreness on his first day running yesterday. I'm not the only one! (Granted I'm no elite, but at least I know there are others feeling my "pain").
Time to pick up the kids from school. Have a great evening!
I ran an easy 5.4 miles yesterday at about an 8:23 pace. Felt pretty good, but still have lingering soreness in my piriformis area and behind the knee (outer portion). Not terrible piriformis issues like before, just a hint of it.
Tomorrow I've committed to Ali to run at 5 a.m., rain or shine. Hee hee, I hope I get out there!
It helps to know that elite runners like Nate Pennington took 2 full weeks off after the CIM and that he felt some soreness on his first day running yesterday. I'm not the only one! (Granted I'm no elite, but at least I know there are others feeling my "pain").
Time to pick up the kids from school. Have a great evening!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
A RAY of Sunshine in Bad Weather
Hey friends! It's been cold here lately. It's time for me to start running in long pants and several layers. (Yes I'm a wimp who thinks temps in the 40s are cold). But I can NEVER use the weather as an excuse. My friend Ray (rgreen45) from the Runner's World forums has so much dedication that when most mere mortals (like me) would push off a run due to inclement weather he says, "Ha, bad weather, you ain't nothin'." Here's a picture of him after his 21 mile run in horrible weather yesterday. He shared it with us on the forum. And to top that, he's still going to run 8 or so today!
Well, the toddler and I managed to run an easy paced 60 minutes yesterday afternoon. His nose is still runny and he's still coughing, but he seems to be getting better. I'm starting to feel weird twinges and aches in places that haven't given me problems in a while, like the piriformis area and down the hamstrings to the outer-back areas of my knees. My hips and groin muscles are also still kind of achey. I'm glad I don't start marathon training until Jan. 1.
I think I'll continue to run very easy miles until then. From 12/3 to 12/9 I logged only 8.45. I ran only 23.2 last week. I'll do about 30 next week, then 35 the week after, then get back to 40 for the first official week of marathon training (New Year's week). I'm hoping all the weird aches, pains and twinges are gone by then.
Have a great Sunday. We've already gone to church and now we're hanging out at home. We'll do some shopping in a bit. :)
Well, the toddler and I managed to run an easy paced 60 minutes yesterday afternoon. His nose is still runny and he's still coughing, but he seems to be getting better. I'm starting to feel weird twinges and aches in places that haven't given me problems in a while, like the piriformis area and down the hamstrings to the outer-back areas of my knees. My hips and groin muscles are also still kind of achey. I'm glad I don't start marathon training until Jan. 1.
I think I'll continue to run very easy miles until then. From 12/3 to 12/9 I logged only 8.45. I ran only 23.2 last week. I'll do about 30 next week, then 35 the week after, then get back to 40 for the first official week of marathon training (New Year's week). I'm hoping all the weird aches, pains and twinges are gone by then.
Have a great Sunday. We've already gone to church and now we're hanging out at home. We'll do some shopping in a bit. :)
Friday, December 14, 2007
Friday FUNNIES!
This is pretty funny. Smokeynights posted it on the Runner's World Forums and I laughed out loud as I read them. Enjoy!
After Mr. and Mrs. Fenton retired, Mrs. Fenton insisted her husband
accompany her on her trips to Wal-Mart. Unfortunately, Mr. Fenton was
like most men--he found shopping boring and preferred to get in and get
out. Equally unfortunately, Mrs. Fenton was like most women--she loved
to browse. One day Mrs. Fenton received the following letter From her
local Wal-Mart:
Dear Mrs. Fenton,
Over the past six months, your husband has been causing quite a
commotion in our store. We cannot tolerate this behavior and may be
forced to ban both of you from the store. Our complaints against Mr. Fenton
are listed below and are documented by our video surveillance cameras.
1. June 15: Took 24 boxes of condoms and randomly put them in people's
carts when they weren't looking.
2 . July 2: Set all the alarm clocks in Housewares to go off at 5-minute intervals.
3. July 7: Made a trail of tomato juice on the floor leading to the women's restroom.
4. July 19: Walked up to an employee and told her in an official voice,
"Code 3 in Housewares. Get on it right away."
5. August 4: Went to the Service Desk and tried to put a bag of M&M's on layaway.
6. September 14: Moved a "CAUTION - WET FLOOR" sign to a carpeted area.
7. September 15: Set up a tent in the camping department and told other
shoppers he'd invite them in if they would bring pillows and blankets
from the bedding department.
8. September 23: When a clerk asked if they could help him he began
crying and screamed, "Why can't you people just leave me alone?"
9. October 4: Looked right into the security camera and used it as a
mirror while he picked his nose.
10. November 10: While handling guns in the hunting department, he asked
the clerk where the antidepressants were.
11. December 3: Darted around the store suspiciously while loudly
humming the "Mission Impossible" theme.
12. December 6: In the auto department, he practiced his "Madonna
look"by using different sizes of funnels.
13. December 18: Hid in a clothing rack and when people browsed
through,yelled "PICK ME! PICK ME!"
14. December 21: When an announcement came over the loud speaker, he
assumed a fetal position and screamed "OH NO! IT'S THOSE VOICES AGAIN!"
And last, but not least...
15. December 23: Went into a fitting room, shut the door, waited awhile,
then yelled very loudly, "Hey! There's no toilet paper in here!"
Regards,
Wal-Mart
After Mr. and Mrs. Fenton retired, Mrs. Fenton insisted her husband
accompany her on her trips to Wal-Mart. Unfortunately, Mr. Fenton was
like most men--he found shopping boring and preferred to get in and get
out. Equally unfortunately, Mrs. Fenton was like most women--she loved
to browse. One day Mrs. Fenton received the following letter From her
local Wal-Mart:
Dear Mrs. Fenton,
Over the past six months, your husband has been causing quite a
commotion in our store. We cannot tolerate this behavior and may be
forced to ban both of you from the store. Our complaints against Mr. Fenton
are listed below and are documented by our video surveillance cameras.
1. June 15: Took 24 boxes of condoms and randomly put them in people's
carts when they weren't looking.
2 . July 2: Set all the alarm clocks in Housewares to go off at 5-minute intervals.
3. July 7: Made a trail of tomato juice on the floor leading to the women's restroom.
4. July 19: Walked up to an employee and told her in an official voice,
"Code 3 in Housewares. Get on it right away."
5. August 4: Went to the Service Desk and tried to put a bag of M&M's on layaway.
6. September 14: Moved a "CAUTION - WET FLOOR" sign to a carpeted area.
7. September 15: Set up a tent in the camping department and told other
shoppers he'd invite them in if they would bring pillows and blankets
from the bedding department.
8. September 23: When a clerk asked if they could help him he began
crying and screamed, "Why can't you people just leave me alone?"
9. October 4: Looked right into the security camera and used it as a
mirror while he picked his nose.
10. November 10: While handling guns in the hunting department, he asked
the clerk where the antidepressants were.
11. December 3: Darted around the store suspiciously while loudly
humming the "Mission Impossible" theme.
12. December 6: In the auto department, he practiced his "Madonna
look"by using different sizes of funnels.
13. December 18: Hid in a clothing rack and when people browsed
through,yelled "PICK ME! PICK ME!"
14. December 21: When an announcement came over the loud speaker, he
assumed a fetal position and screamed "OH NO! IT'S THOSE VOICES AGAIN!"
And last, but not least...
15. December 23: Went into a fitting room, shut the door, waited awhile,
then yelled very loudly, "Hey! There's no toilet paper in here!"
Regards,
Wal-Mart
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