uhhh DOES ANYONE EVEN READ THIS BLOG--HELLO? HELLO?
Anyhow--Russ and Erin are on taper week...and scared shitless right now.
Erin somehow has managed to keep her feet intact. Erin has severe bunions that training for a marathon only worsens. Each run results in bloody feet. And the pain is pretty extreme...So she is one tough cookie for being able to run. No offense to Erin, but if you want to see some jacked up feet--check hers out. I am not grossed out by it, just impressed that she can run as well as she does--they must HURT.
I think I will run the half. I am not overly excited about the 3 AM wake up after getting into Orlando at 7:30 the night before, but whatevs. Who needs sleep?
I hope to catch Erin and Russ at a couple of points in their race, but for the sanity of everyone in the state of Florida, Greta's sleep is going to determine most of what happens on this trip...
Friday, December 31, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
To Run or Not to Run?
Long story short. Overall leg is good. There have been times that it hurts. I take a couple days off--it is good again. Longest run before today was 4 miles. The cardio aspect of that run killed me. But it was also very cold out that day. Today I ran 7 miles on the treadmill at 6.0 (10 min miles). Leg felt great--no pain. Once again, the cardio wasn't so great. I had been thinking that running the 1/2 at a 10:30 pace would be feasible. Now I am not so sure. What I do know is that I am ecstatic that my leg is healing so well.
And I am back to thinking about trying a tri in the spring. The swimming might kill me. Or the biking. But it should be fun.
And I am back to thinking about trying a tri in the spring. The swimming might kill me. Or the biking. But it should be fun.
Friday, December 3, 2010
I'M BACK
Two miles. GLORIOUS. It was amazing. Leg felt fantastic. Thought I felt a little twinge at one point but I think it was my knee. Ran with Christine, so we talked which was a good distraction so I didn't obsess over my leg.
It will be a lot of trial and error at this point. Doing runs and pulling back if I feel any soreness. And building mileage slllooowwwllly.
But the Disney Half is still a possibility...
It was such a fantastic feeling to be running again. It really was like finding something that had been lost. I missed running so much.
It will be a lot of trial and error at this point. Doing runs and pulling back if I feel any soreness. And building mileage slllooowwwllly.
But the Disney Half is still a possibility...
It was such a fantastic feeling to be running again. It really was like finding something that had been lost. I missed running so much.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Friday, November 26, 2010
Worship
I want to run. I want to run. I want to run.
Maybe because I am so hopeful that I will be able to run on Thursday, that this burning desire to run is present most days.
I really contemplated joining Erin for a mile of her long run tomorrow (tomorrow is 20 for her!). But Erin and Christine told me that I was an idiot to do that. So I guess I will wait for the official "ok".
I spent yesterday morning doing the 2 hours of hot, sweaty yoga. It was great. I appreciate how I can push myself. How every class is a mental challenge. The irony (? or perhaps it isn't irony, since irony is often misidentified) is that so much of yoga is also granting patience and acceptance with what you can do at that moment. It presents a peculiar juxtaposition of sorts. And I probably didn't use that word correctly. But that is ok. Because Yoga says so.
But anyhow, time on my mat is spent pushing, pushing and pushing. And not caving, even when my f'ng thigh is on FIRE from being in Warrior for like 6 minutes. Or 30 seconds. Or when my arms seriously are shaking because we are holding down dog for far too long. But it's also about telling myself that doing a bridge between wheels is more than ok since too many wheels causes tightness in my upper back. It's about viewing the use of a strap or block as not failing but as recognizing the importance of extra support. And the fact that it indeed can bring better opportunity. I guess it is all about finding the balance. Which by the way, balance in Warrior 3 can be quite hard to find.
Yoga is not about reaching an ultimate place. But then again, neither is running.
Yoga is reminding me that I have a fair amount of mental toughness. But it is also helping me on my journey of forgoing the notion of perfection. It is crazy for a place that is so non-judgemental, for a practice that is so individualized and so obviously a continuum of constant growth, that I still twist it into a self competition. For some that may seem obvious and "ok" to do. But I look forward to finding some forgiveness on my mat. And acceptance. And even when I am back to running, I will continue to practice yoga. Because it really does fit into my own personal religion of sorts. It means far more to me than an opportunity to expel gallons of sweat and tone and stretch muscles. I think many answers lie within the practice of yoga.
I look forward to the day that I can be on my mat. And not be affected by those around me. I remind myself that most likely this is not a milestone that once I hit, I am there for good. But I do believe that I can reach a place where the vast majority of the time, I am indeed unaffected by the world beyond my mat. And if you think that is a metaphor, you better f'ng believe it. I am hoping that this can be done without the need to purchase a 25 foot by 40 foot mat...with brick walls surrounding it...
Maybe because I am so hopeful that I will be able to run on Thursday, that this burning desire to run is present most days.
I really contemplated joining Erin for a mile of her long run tomorrow (tomorrow is 20 for her!). But Erin and Christine told me that I was an idiot to do that. So I guess I will wait for the official "ok".
I spent yesterday morning doing the 2 hours of hot, sweaty yoga. It was great. I appreciate how I can push myself. How every class is a mental challenge. The irony (? or perhaps it isn't irony, since irony is often misidentified) is that so much of yoga is also granting patience and acceptance with what you can do at that moment. It presents a peculiar juxtaposition of sorts. And I probably didn't use that word correctly. But that is ok. Because Yoga says so.
But anyhow, time on my mat is spent pushing, pushing and pushing. And not caving, even when my f'ng thigh is on FIRE from being in Warrior for like 6 minutes. Or 30 seconds. Or when my arms seriously are shaking because we are holding down dog for far too long. But it's also about telling myself that doing a bridge between wheels is more than ok since too many wheels causes tightness in my upper back. It's about viewing the use of a strap or block as not failing but as recognizing the importance of extra support. And the fact that it indeed can bring better opportunity. I guess it is all about finding the balance. Which by the way, balance in Warrior 3 can be quite hard to find.
Yoga is not about reaching an ultimate place. But then again, neither is running.
Yoga is reminding me that I have a fair amount of mental toughness. But it is also helping me on my journey of forgoing the notion of perfection. It is crazy for a place that is so non-judgemental, for a practice that is so individualized and so obviously a continuum of constant growth, that I still twist it into a self competition. For some that may seem obvious and "ok" to do. But I look forward to finding some forgiveness on my mat. And acceptance. And even when I am back to running, I will continue to practice yoga. Because it really does fit into my own personal religion of sorts. It means far more to me than an opportunity to expel gallons of sweat and tone and stretch muscles. I think many answers lie within the practice of yoga.
I look forward to the day that I can be on my mat. And not be affected by those around me. I remind myself that most likely this is not a milestone that once I hit, I am there for good. But I do believe that I can reach a place where the vast majority of the time, I am indeed unaffected by the world beyond my mat. And if you think that is a metaphor, you better f'ng believe it. I am hoping that this can be done without the need to purchase a 25 foot by 40 foot mat...with brick walls surrounding it...
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Happy T-Day
My initial plan was to run the Portland T-day 4 miler. But my shin had other plans. Instead I will be doing a 2 hour hot and sweaty yoga class Thanksgiving morning. Ommmmmmmmm.
I get hit with waves of sheer excitement at the thought of being able to run again soon. Keep your fingers crossed for me.
Erin and Russ continue to train, train, train. At a conference, a parent who runs was in total disbelief that Russ and I have both trained for races simultaneously. And I guess I just feel a little proud that we take our physical health so seriously that we some how make it work. It was a heck of a lot easier to work out pre-Greta. But then again, post-Greta, there is a whole new level of motivation that comes in to play. It also makes me so grateful for the help that parents give me so that I can maintain my physical health (because though I love yoga, it kind of sucks to be stuck to certain times. And yoga is 30 min. from my house. And class is 1 1/2 hours. Which means a lot of time commitment.). Either way, I am not trying to be smug. Sometimes I just forget to acknowledge accomplishments.
Good luck to everyone running tomorrow!
I get hit with waves of sheer excitement at the thought of being able to run again soon. Keep your fingers crossed for me.
Erin and Russ continue to train, train, train. At a conference, a parent who runs was in total disbelief that Russ and I have both trained for races simultaneously. And I guess I just feel a little proud that we take our physical health so seriously that we some how make it work. It was a heck of a lot easier to work out pre-Greta. But then again, post-Greta, there is a whole new level of motivation that comes in to play. It also makes me so grateful for the help that parents give me so that I can maintain my physical health (because though I love yoga, it kind of sucks to be stuck to certain times. And yoga is 30 min. from my house. And class is 1 1/2 hours. Which means a lot of time commitment.). Either way, I am not trying to be smug. Sometimes I just forget to acknowledge accomplishments.
Good luck to everyone running tomorrow!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Countdown!
Less than 2 weeks until my follow up appointment. The change in how my leg feels is amazing. I guess time does heal all wounds. My shin will still ache at times in the morning or at night but overall it has been a drastic improvement. I think I will pack my running clothes to bring to my appointment December 2--because you better believe that if I am told I can test it out with a mile run, I will be heading straight to the boulevard!
Continuing to love yoga. Though yoga does not do much for one's butt. The lack of running is beginning to show. Though I do find my appetite has diminished with the non-running. Of course that doesn't stop me from indulging still. I just don't feel the same hollow hunger feeling anymore!
Erin just completed her 18 mile long run. So proud of my Bud! I think I am most proud because Erin was...let's just say a little reliant on me in terms of running. ERIN--don't get mad, you know it is true. So the fact that she has found her confidence in running and continually pushes herself is amazing. xoxo
Continuing to love yoga. Though yoga does not do much for one's butt. The lack of running is beginning to show. Though I do find my appetite has diminished with the non-running. Of course that doesn't stop me from indulging still. I just don't feel the same hollow hunger feeling anymore!
Erin just completed her 18 mile long run. So proud of my Bud! I think I am most proud because Erin was...let's just say a little reliant on me in terms of running. ERIN--don't get mad, you know it is true. So the fact that she has found her confidence in running and continually pushes herself is amazing. xoxo
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Hopeful!
Yesterday Erin ran her 16 miler training run. I would have given anything to be running next to her; we love doing our long runs together. And yesterday was PERFECT running weather--not very typical November weather.
I actually pulled into the boulevard parking lot after my early morning yoga class, hoping that Erin was there doing her (almost) 5 loops around...I didn't see her car so I called her. She was still at home. But just being that close to the boulevard, where I complete the majority of my runs, made me crave running. Because even though I am accepting the current state of non-running, I still CRAVE running.
This morning, for the first time in weeks and weeks, I woke up with no pain in my shin. I frequently "test" out my leg by "jogging" in place for literally 2 seconds. Usually the first time my left foot hits the ground, I feel the pain in my shin. BUT today, I have tested it out three times--and NO PAIN. My appointment isn't until early December but for the first time I have hope that perhaps I will be permitted to test it out on a mile or two run. It will be glorious.
At this point I would rather opt out of the Disney half, and slowly ease back into running. If I do run the 1/2, it will most likely mean weeks and weeks of no running post-run to let me body rest and repair. We'll see.
Russ is heading out for his 16 tomorrow. I will say that despite the fact that I would really do anything to be able to do a long run, I do not miss carving hours out of my weekend and lining up child care for Greta for a long run!
Oh and I dug this up from a previous blog:
Thinking that maybe a tempo run 4 days after a 10K race might not be the best idea? I had two days of Easy Runs and today's tempo was rough. So rough that I decided it wasn't a good idea to push through it. I am taking on a pretty high mileage training program. And I am on the fence about whether or not it will be too much for me. I also have some apprehensions about the lack of interval training (same program format I used for the 10K).
Yes, Amy. It was too much.
I actually pulled into the boulevard parking lot after my early morning yoga class, hoping that Erin was there doing her (almost) 5 loops around...I didn't see her car so I called her. She was still at home. But just being that close to the boulevard, where I complete the majority of my runs, made me crave running. Because even though I am accepting the current state of non-running, I still CRAVE running.
This morning, for the first time in weeks and weeks, I woke up with no pain in my shin. I frequently "test" out my leg by "jogging" in place for literally 2 seconds. Usually the first time my left foot hits the ground, I feel the pain in my shin. BUT today, I have tested it out three times--and NO PAIN. My appointment isn't until early December but for the first time I have hope that perhaps I will be permitted to test it out on a mile or two run. It will be glorious.
At this point I would rather opt out of the Disney half, and slowly ease back into running. If I do run the 1/2, it will most likely mean weeks and weeks of no running post-run to let me body rest and repair. We'll see.
Russ is heading out for his 16 tomorrow. I will say that despite the fact that I would really do anything to be able to do a long run, I do not miss carving hours out of my weekend and lining up child care for Greta for a long run!
Oh and I dug this up from a previous blog:
Thinking that maybe a tempo run 4 days after a 10K race might not be the best idea? I had two days of Easy Runs and today's tempo was rough. So rough that I decided it wasn't a good idea to push through it. I am taking on a pretty high mileage training program. And I am on the fence about whether or not it will be too much for me. I also have some apprehensions about the lack of interval training (same program format I used for the 10K).
Yes, Amy. It was too much.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Where I Stand
Uh, Erin. Think you should be taking over this blog?
So, the half? Yeah, thinking it isn't looking realistic. My cardio is plummeting. I can't bring myself to swim or bike. And Disney won't let me switch out of the full at this point. So I would need to fork over another $90 or whatever it was, to register. But I would have 2 t-shirts then.
G has been training hard for her 100 meter dash. She takes laps around the house a few days a week. She also is pretty solid with her yoga skills which I think will help her out in the race.
As I become further away from running. And as the weather turns colder and more wintry...it is becoming easier to deal with the fact that I cannot run. I have gone on running hiatuses before and have come back from them. In the meantime, I am in love with my hot, sweaty yoga. I don't refer to it as Bikram because I think that Bikram is a particular type of practice, that this isn't. This is Power Vinyasa Yoga. And it is done in an exceptionally hot room. And I adore it. The metaphors that surface through the practice of yoga are grounding and centering. It aligns perfectly with my spiritual quest. I am head over heels in love. Which makes losing running a bit easier as well....
I hope all you runners out there are having good runs. I don't get jealous or sad when I hear my friends/family talking about running. I still consider myself a runner, so I do still enjoy running talk! And soon enough, I will be pounding the pavement again, with tales of my own runs.
So, the half? Yeah, thinking it isn't looking realistic. My cardio is plummeting. I can't bring myself to swim or bike. And Disney won't let me switch out of the full at this point. So I would need to fork over another $90 or whatever it was, to register. But I would have 2 t-shirts then.
G has been training hard for her 100 meter dash. She takes laps around the house a few days a week. She also is pretty solid with her yoga skills which I think will help her out in the race.
As I become further away from running. And as the weather turns colder and more wintry...it is becoming easier to deal with the fact that I cannot run. I have gone on running hiatuses before and have come back from them. In the meantime, I am in love with my hot, sweaty yoga. I don't refer to it as Bikram because I think that Bikram is a particular type of practice, that this isn't. This is Power Vinyasa Yoga. And it is done in an exceptionally hot room. And I adore it. The metaphors that surface through the practice of yoga are grounding and centering. It aligns perfectly with my spiritual quest. I am head over heels in love. Which makes losing running a bit easier as well....
I hope all you runners out there are having good runs. I don't get jealous or sad when I hear my friends/family talking about running. I still consider myself a runner, so I do still enjoy running talk! And soon enough, I will be pounding the pavement again, with tales of my own runs.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
Shasta Daisy
Well. Amy most certainly isn't taking Disney. MAYBE the half. And it won't be pretty.
Finally saw Cute Doctor again. He popped the MRI images up on the screen. And proceeded to point out the stress fracture. The very bad stress fracture. I think he was almost excited by the severity of it. He did mention had I run through the pain for one or two more runs, it would most likely have resulted in a full break. Which would then require surgery and placing a rod in my leg. Um, ow?
For the next 5 weeks...I can swim, bike and yoga it up. No more elliptical even. The marathon is OBVIOUSLY out. The half is feasible. But it may be that I don't run until the actual race day.
But come on, how bad ass am I to have run 13.1 with a nasty stress fracture and still meet my under 2 goal? Do you think I can negotiate with the ME Half people and either: A. get them to put a footnote for me indicating this fact or B. knock a couple of minutes off my overall time? Am I obnoxious? Yes. Do I care? No.
Erin will continue training for the full. Which I am very excited about. I told her that I would be her official snickers provider during the race.
Finally saw Cute Doctor again. He popped the MRI images up on the screen. And proceeded to point out the stress fracture. The very bad stress fracture. I think he was almost excited by the severity of it. He did mention had I run through the pain for one or two more runs, it would most likely have resulted in a full break. Which would then require surgery and placing a rod in my leg. Um, ow?
For the next 5 weeks...I can swim, bike and yoga it up. No more elliptical even. The marathon is OBVIOUSLY out. The half is feasible. But it may be that I don't run until the actual race day.
But come on, how bad ass am I to have run 13.1 with a nasty stress fracture and still meet my under 2 goal? Do you think I can negotiate with the ME Half people and either: A. get them to put a footnote for me indicating this fact or B. knock a couple of minutes off my overall time? Am I obnoxious? Yes. Do I care? No.
Erin will continue training for the full. Which I am very excited about. I told her that I would be her official snickers provider during the race.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Update
Saw the cute sports medicine doctor today. X rays showed no stress fracture--hooray! BUT he is feeling pretty certain it is indeed a stress fracture. So I will be getting an MRI next week. Now, there is a chance that there will be no bone issue which means, I am green lighted to go for it because I will not do any bone damage. If the MRI shows a fracture, we will make a plan. It sounds like I will most likely be fine to do the half in January. Not so sure if the marathon will be feasible or not. We'll see.
Until then I need to try to get my butt doing something to try to salvage some level of fitness. It is very hard for me to exercise when I am not following a training schedule. I can elliptical, ride a bike, do anything that doesn't hurt my leg...
Erin continues to train...and is planning a 12 miler on her treadmill this weekend. WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?
Until then I need to try to get my butt doing something to try to salvage some level of fitness. It is very hard for me to exercise when I am not following a training schedule. I can elliptical, ride a bike, do anything that doesn't hurt my leg...
Erin continues to train...and is planning a 12 miler on her treadmill this weekend. WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?
Saturday, October 16, 2010
POSITIVITY....
Wow. I just realized I didn't even blog about the half.
Anyhow, dusting off the cobwebs to wish Tommy and Jessamyn the best of luck tomorrow. They are going to SLAUGHTER their marathon. I know it! And then hopefully take some MUCH deserved time off.
Anyhow, dusting off the cobwebs to wish Tommy and Jessamyn the best of luck tomorrow. They are going to SLAUGHTER their marathon. I know it! And then hopefully take some MUCH deserved time off.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Realizing...
That there is very fine line between determination and stupidity. Hoping I land on the right side of the line?
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Mother F'r
I think pretty much everyone who reads this blog knows of my calf injury as of late. Well today I saw Dr. Hatzenbuehler--Sports Medicine guy, who also happens to be the Medical Director for the ME Marathon.
Anyhow---any pain I feel in the actual calf muscle is not concerning--very common among runners and "fixable" with stretching.
The pain I feel along my shin in one particular spot is concerning. Because it could be a stress fracture. BUT it could also be a shin splint. Let's hope for the latter. Stress fractures take 4 weeks to show up in an x-ray, so it was too soon for that. I have an appointment in 2 weeks.
I plan to run Sunday. Not so sure what it will be like.
Oh and I did ask about my Runner's Knee since that flared up last weekend. I asked if it was ok to run through that pain should it happen during the race (keep in mind I have never been able to run THROUGH that intense pain). Dr.H said, "Sure it's ok. But there is no way you would be able to do it." Which reassured me that I am not a big sissy and that Runner's Knee IS indeed debilitating.
Ran 4 today. Knee was good. Shin was not.
Disney here I come?
Anyhow---any pain I feel in the actual calf muscle is not concerning--very common among runners and "fixable" with stretching.
The pain I feel along my shin in one particular spot is concerning. Because it could be a stress fracture. BUT it could also be a shin splint. Let's hope for the latter. Stress fractures take 4 weeks to show up in an x-ray, so it was too soon for that. I have an appointment in 2 weeks.
I plan to run Sunday. Not so sure what it will be like.
Oh and I did ask about my Runner's Knee since that flared up last weekend. I asked if it was ok to run through that pain should it happen during the race (keep in mind I have never been able to run THROUGH that intense pain). Dr.H said, "Sure it's ok. But there is no way you would be able to do it." Which reassured me that I am not a big sissy and that Runner's Knee IS indeed debilitating.
Ran 4 today. Knee was good. Shin was not.
Disney here I come?
Friday, September 10, 2010
Neglected
Nothing too exciting to report. My legs felt like shit earlier in the week--my breathing killed me during my tempo. But I had an amazing "easy run" today--ran it too fast but it was one of those runs where my legs felt light and I just went...A pleasant surprise since I felt crappy heading into the run.
I am contemplating compression socks. Seriously. For after the marathon. As you may recall Erin and I will be able to get into a park FREE the Monday after the marathon. BUT--we will have just run a marathon the day before so.....I did see in Runner's World (last month?) that they rated several socks and they do indeed help with recovery. So maybe?
Calf is still tight--I really think a lot of it is from road running--particularly the shoulder slope since it is my left calf.
Solo long run this weekend but then Erin and I will be running together the next three weekends (the third weekend is the race!).
I am contemplating compression socks. Seriously. For after the marathon. As you may recall Erin and I will be able to get into a park FREE the Monday after the marathon. BUT--we will have just run a marathon the day before so.....I did see in Runner's World (last month?) that they rated several socks and they do indeed help with recovery. So maybe?
Calf is still tight--I really think a lot of it is from road running--particularly the shoulder slope since it is my left calf.
Solo long run this weekend but then Erin and I will be running together the next three weekends (the third weekend is the race!).
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Recovery Week
Ahhh--Recovery Week is glorious.
Except when your recovery coincides with the hottest and most humid week of weather EVER.
I ran last evening. Against my parents wishes (they hung out with G while I ran). They told me about 154 times how horrible the air quality was. They asked me 78 times if I was SURE that I wanted to run. And my dad did ask me my route....just in case he needed to come find me (passed out on the side of the road?). I told them I would be fine and would cut my run short if needed.
Like hell I was going to cut my run short.
And out the door I went. First three miles were fine. Last three--a tad rough. I would feel like I was FLYING and glance at the Garmin and notice I was not FLYING.
At points there was the sensation of running through water almost (in terms of an odd resistance feeling).
It actually was an oddly enjoyable run because it was interesting to see how my body reacted to the humidity.
I did sweat for the rest of the night despite a nice cold post-run shower.
Today I decided to postpone my run until tomorrow.
Long Run is a nice 5 mile easy run this week...and next week? I will be bringing IT. I hope.
Oh and Monday I had a 6 mile easy run. And inadvertently discovered the best motivation to run fast. Picturing your baby at daycare just waiting for you. My pace was 90 seconds faster per mile than target. Which really isn't a good thing since it was supposed to be an Easy Run. AND Recovery Week. I suck.
Except when your recovery coincides with the hottest and most humid week of weather EVER.
I ran last evening. Against my parents wishes (they hung out with G while I ran). They told me about 154 times how horrible the air quality was. They asked me 78 times if I was SURE that I wanted to run. And my dad did ask me my route....just in case he needed to come find me (passed out on the side of the road?). I told them I would be fine and would cut my run short if needed.
Like hell I was going to cut my run short.
And out the door I went. First three miles were fine. Last three--a tad rough. I would feel like I was FLYING and glance at the Garmin and notice I was not FLYING.
At points there was the sensation of running through water almost (in terms of an odd resistance feeling).
It actually was an oddly enjoyable run because it was interesting to see how my body reacted to the humidity.
I did sweat for the rest of the night despite a nice cold post-run shower.
Today I decided to postpone my run until tomorrow.
Long Run is a nice 5 mile easy run this week...and next week? I will be bringing IT. I hope.
Oh and Monday I had a 6 mile easy run. And inadvertently discovered the best motivation to run fast. Picturing your baby at daycare just waiting for you. My pace was 90 seconds faster per mile than target. Which really isn't a good thing since it was supposed to be an Easy Run. AND Recovery Week. I suck.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
And so it goes
Erin wanted me to detail our long run from last weekend that we did in NY while visiting my grandma. But I don't think there is way to make the story interesting without being completely politically incorrect, so I will refrain.
Suffice to say that upon returning from our run, we were discussing with my grandma the park that we ran through...mentioning the...crowds that were there. She did say that on weekends people from the city pile up into cars and drive out to this park. The park charges by the carload. And Erin and I can attest to the fact that this does indeed happen. Because when we were trying to leave we had to sit for a good 5 minutes while about 15 people piled out of a van parked next to us. Including a teenage girl whose purse scratched up against the car (which may have added to the scratches I mention in my other blog). A man from the van checked the door and waved his hand that no damage was done. I clearly took his word for it.
Training continues...I do like running 5 days a week. I don't particularly enjoy speed work outs. And I really do like long runs, Most of the time.
And I think I need to invest in some Glide (that's what it is called, right Missy?). My arm was ripped up this past weekend from my ipod holder.
Suffice to say that upon returning from our run, we were discussing with my grandma the park that we ran through...mentioning the...crowds that were there. She did say that on weekends people from the city pile up into cars and drive out to this park. The park charges by the carload. And Erin and I can attest to the fact that this does indeed happen. Because when we were trying to leave we had to sit for a good 5 minutes while about 15 people piled out of a van parked next to us. Including a teenage girl whose purse scratched up against the car (which may have added to the scratches I mention in my other blog). A man from the van checked the door and waved his hand that no damage was done. I clearly took his word for it.
Training continues...I do like running 5 days a week. I don't particularly enjoy speed work outs. And I really do like long runs, Most of the time.
And I think I need to invest in some Glide (that's what it is called, right Missy?). My arm was ripped up this past weekend from my ipod holder.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Blah, blah, blah
Not too much to say...I had a great 9 mile run yesterday. Beautiful weather and a new route helped out a lot.
In a couple of weeks I get to shift into work mode again. Last fall this was more of a challenge because I felt the need to leave work as soon as possible and immediately fetch my baby from daycare. By spring I realized that I could work out BEFORE getting my baby--and she didn't care the least. That made things much easier.
Very proud that my sister Renee is signing up for a 5K this fall! YAY! We are working on my mom now...
In a couple of weeks I get to shift into work mode again. Last fall this was more of a challenge because I felt the need to leave work as soon as possible and immediately fetch my baby from daycare. By spring I realized that I could work out BEFORE getting my baby--and she didn't care the least. That made things much easier.
Very proud that my sister Renee is signing up for a 5K this fall! YAY! We are working on my mom now...
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Too soon
Thinking that maybe a tempo run 4 days after a 10K race might not be the best idea? I had two days of Easy Runs and today's tempo was rough. So rough that I decided it wasn't a good idea to push through it. I am taking on a pretty high mileage training program. And I am on the fence about whether or not it will be too much for me. I also have some apprehensions about the lack of interval training (same program format I used for the 10K).
Erin and I used the Runner's World FIRST program last year. It worked well--but I wanted something with more mileage this year. I do highly recommend the FIRST program, particularly because it is literally 3 days a week of running. That is it. Granted you should do some cross training on non-running days, but by the end of training, I simply ran three times a week and called it good enough.
Erin and I ran the half last year with our pace being 20 seconds or so faster than what we had trained for. So hey, it works.
Erin--it is your turn to blog. The masses are waiting.
Erin and I used the Runner's World FIRST program last year. It worked well--but I wanted something with more mileage this year. I do highly recommend the FIRST program, particularly because it is literally 3 days a week of running. That is it. Granted you should do some cross training on non-running days, but by the end of training, I simply ran three times a week and called it good enough.
Erin and I ran the half last year with our pace being 20 seconds or so faster than what we had trained for. So hey, it works.
Erin--it is your turn to blog. The masses are waiting.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Day one of half marathon training...
Realized the issue with the Garmin--the distance spent side stepping other runners. I finished with 6.27 miles done. So I am petitioning the officials at the B2B to change my time to 8:29s.
Today I had an "easy run" that reminded me just how lovely the weather was on Saturday. It was hot today.
While running today, I thought about the secret motivation that having a kid provides.
First--when I feel like I am dying. And want to quit a run. I just think about the fact that I endured labor for 24 hours. And for the last 7 hours or so I wanted to quit. But didn't. (oh yeah, maybe it was because you can't quit--but I still wanted to). So I usually can use that little line of thinking to keep me going.
Second-I can't quite explain it but sometimes when I start fading I just think about G. And somehow it pushes me to keep at it.
So I suppose the sleep deprivation, busy schedule, permanent extra baby weight and food stained running clothes are balanced out by the motivation that a kid gives you. Thanks G.
Oh and I do need to thank my parents for all of the support they have given me with my running. Particularly my mom who has logged several hours of G watching so I can get my runs in...Thanks guys! Love you!
Today I had an "easy run" that reminded me just how lovely the weather was on Saturday. It was hot today.
While running today, I thought about the secret motivation that having a kid provides.
First--when I feel like I am dying. And want to quit a run. I just think about the fact that I endured labor for 24 hours. And for the last 7 hours or so I wanted to quit. But didn't. (oh yeah, maybe it was because you can't quit--but I still wanted to). So I usually can use that little line of thinking to keep me going.
Second-I can't quite explain it but sometimes when I start fading I just think about G. And somehow it pushes me to keep at it.
So I suppose the sleep deprivation, busy schedule, permanent extra baby weight and food stained running clothes are balanced out by the motivation that a kid gives you. Thanks G.
Oh and I do need to thank my parents for all of the support they have given me with my running. Particularly my mom who has logged several hours of G watching so I can get my runs in...Thanks guys! Love you!
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Done
I was pleased with how the race went yesterday...The weather was perfect. My legs felt pretty good throughout the run--my breathing was not great. Which makes me wonder if I was really prepared to run at the pace that I did...which makes me wonder about the stinking training program after all.
My initial goal was to get a PR (ran 55:50 2007; 58?? something in 2009); so in order to get a PR my pace had to be under 9:00. I was pretty sure I could do this...but not certain.
My training program had me running an 8:38--which I was hoping I could do--but was a little doubtful
My secret plan was to run 8:30 (doesn't everyone have a secret plan?).
I knew with a mile to go, I was set to get a PR. When I crossed, I knew I must have been near pace based on my overall time. Though Garmin lied to me, telling me I ran 8:29s (but gave me an overall time that was a little over my actual time??? I don't understand what that is all about..). Anyhow, I ran 8:33s for a time of 53:07. I am very satisfied with that. Plus, I do have a kid (that's for you, Tommy).
Day off today--1/2 marathon training starts Monday. I am targeted at 1:54 or something but Erin is ADAMANT that we run together, so I am comprimising and I will settle for 1:59:59...aka goal to break 2:00 (we ran in 2:02 last year, so I think it is feasable).
My initial goal was to get a PR (ran 55:50 2007; 58?? something in 2009); so in order to get a PR my pace had to be under 9:00. I was pretty sure I could do this...but not certain.
My training program had me running an 8:38--which I was hoping I could do--but was a little doubtful
My secret plan was to run 8:30 (doesn't everyone have a secret plan?).
I knew with a mile to go, I was set to get a PR. When I crossed, I knew I must have been near pace based on my overall time. Though Garmin lied to me, telling me I ran 8:29s (but gave me an overall time that was a little over my actual time??? I don't understand what that is all about..). Anyhow, I ran 8:33s for a time of 53:07. I am very satisfied with that. Plus, I do have a kid (that's for you, Tommy).
Day off today--1/2 marathon training starts Monday. I am targeted at 1:54 or something but Erin is ADAMANT that we run together, so I am comprimising and I will settle for 1:59:59...aka goal to break 2:00 (we ran in 2:02 last year, so I think it is feasable).
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Kevin M.
I am simply making an observation. That is all. This morning a certain someone named Kevin Mannix did utter the words "unseasonably cool" for the weekend.
Just repeating what I heard. That is all.
Just repeating what I heard. That is all.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Check!
Greta and I booked our plane tickets for the marathon! This will be G's first flight. So a direct flight from Portland was a must!
Time to do another 3 mile easy run...5 mile tempo tomorrow and then two days of rest.
Weather for Saturday is looking pretty darn nice.
Time to do another 3 mile easy run...5 mile tempo tomorrow and then two days of rest.
Weather for Saturday is looking pretty darn nice.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Yes!
There is nothing more glorious than realizing your scheduled run for the day is a 3 mile easy run. Seriously. Does it get better than that?
Thursday, July 29, 2010
A bad run of runs
Speed workout yesterday. 10:30 am on a track. In blazing sunshine. And humidity. Equals not good. NOT GOOD.
I felt crappy for each of my 4 800s. And during each recovery run, I was literally about to pee my pants. So when I finally crossed the line after my last damn 800. I just peed. I didn't even care. I just peed. Russ was standing off to the side and stared at me in horror and amusement. I growled at him, waved my hand and snatched my water from him. He later said, "Well at least you were discreet about it." He was joking. I was just walking wide legged with pee shooting out of me. Oh, and there were other people on the track. Whatever. It was clear pee so at least I was very hydrated. And it has nothing to do with having a baby. I always have had pee issues when I run hard in hot and humid weather.
Today for my easy run, I did 4 miles. With the jogger. Not fun. Not easy. Thank the lord I have a day of rest tomorrow before my 10 miler on Saturday.
I felt crappy for each of my 4 800s. And during each recovery run, I was literally about to pee my pants. So when I finally crossed the line after my last damn 800. I just peed. I didn't even care. I just peed. Russ was standing off to the side and stared at me in horror and amusement. I growled at him, waved my hand and snatched my water from him. He later said, "Well at least you were discreet about it." He was joking. I was just walking wide legged with pee shooting out of me. Oh, and there were other people on the track. Whatever. It was clear pee so at least I was very hydrated. And it has nothing to do with having a baby. I always have had pee issues when I run hard in hot and humid weather.
Today for my easy run, I did 4 miles. With the jogger. Not fun. Not easy. Thank the lord I have a day of rest tomorrow before my 10 miler on Saturday.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Input please
Dear Weather Gods:
Today's weather would work too.
xoxo
Water Stops:
Russ informed me yesterday that he was not going to utilize any of the water stops during the B2B. I gasped in horror. I had never imagined such things. But then I started thinking about it. Normally I do not have any water when running. And as Russ pointed out, it is basically impossible to drink from a cup when running. So maybe I should plan on maybe stopping only once if needed? For a dump on my head? When you have super thick and long hair piled up on top of your head, it can get pretttttty darn steamy on your head. And I have read mixed opinions on whether or not a water dump truly cools you down...But thoughts on Water Stops for a 10k?
Gu
I usually fuel mid-run when doing a long run. I have in the past fueled before a mid to long run. And just am not sure if I should fuel for the race or not. I suppose a gu before I run won't hurt anything. Thoughts on the necessity of fueling?
Play list
Just started thinking about it seriously today. So far, in the order of how they will play:
Oh My God-Usher
Suddenly I See- KT Turnstall
How to Save a Life-The Fray
STOP ROLLING YOUR EYES AT MY SELECTIONS. I will keep you posted as I add to this because I am pretty sure 3 songs won't get me through the race...
Pelvis Tilt
Post-nursing I realized that I had developed the bad habit of leaning forward ever so slightly--most likely due to the fact that running while nursing I was carrying a gallon of extra liquid in my chest--TMI? Probably. Anyhow, at some point, to alleviate pain from my knee, I started tilting my pelvis forward a bit and really focused on keeping my upper body upright. It made a big difference in terms of taking the pressure off of my knee. It is still not an ingrained style, but when I start to feel like I am dragging or leaning, I do this and it helps.
Do I really have to mow the lawn?
Today's weather would work too.
xoxo
Water Stops:
Russ informed me yesterday that he was not going to utilize any of the water stops during the B2B. I gasped in horror. I had never imagined such things. But then I started thinking about it. Normally I do not have any water when running. And as Russ pointed out, it is basically impossible to drink from a cup when running. So maybe I should plan on maybe stopping only once if needed? For a dump on my head? When you have super thick and long hair piled up on top of your head, it can get pretttttty darn steamy on your head. And I have read mixed opinions on whether or not a water dump truly cools you down...But thoughts on Water Stops for a 10k?
Gu
I usually fuel mid-run when doing a long run. I have in the past fueled before a mid to long run. And just am not sure if I should fuel for the race or not. I suppose a gu before I run won't hurt anything. Thoughts on the necessity of fueling?
Play list
Just started thinking about it seriously today. So far, in the order of how they will play:
Oh My God-Usher
Suddenly I See- KT Turnstall
How to Save a Life-The Fray
STOP ROLLING YOUR EYES AT MY SELECTIONS. I will keep you posted as I add to this because I am pretty sure 3 songs won't get me through the race...
Pelvis Tilt
Post-nursing I realized that I had developed the bad habit of leaning forward ever so slightly--most likely due to the fact that running while nursing I was carrying a gallon of extra liquid in my chest--TMI? Probably. Anyhow, at some point, to alleviate pain from my knee, I started tilting my pelvis forward a bit and really focused on keeping my upper body upright. It made a big difference in terms of taking the pressure off of my knee. It is still not an ingrained style, but when I start to feel like I am dragging or leaning, I do this and it helps.
Do I really have to mow the lawn?
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Stretch
I discovered the most amazing thing the other day. Called: stretching.
I was never a stretcher. At all. I brushed it off. Considered it completely unnecessary.
I have had running friends tell me to please, please, please make sure that I stretch post-run--as they have nursed their own injuries that stretching may have prevented.
But I still scoffed at such far fetched ideas as stretching.
I never did before. So why start now?
After Erin and I finished the half in Oct., we collected our medal (TOP PRIORITY), wrapped ourselves in a foil cape, and walked to the car.
We ran a 13.1 mile race and never stretched. I wasn't walking very well the next day--not that stretching necessarily would have made a huge difference in day-after legs, but I am wondering if the lack of stretching contributed to my knee problems that occurred post-half.
Anyhow, the past few runs my knee had been hurting a bit. Nothing serious, but just enough of a pain to remind me that there was once a more serious pain there. And that more serious pain could come out to play again.
Russ and I had finished a tempo run and I mentioned my knee pain to him. He told me that I really needed to stretch.
So I did.
AND OH MY GOD--I COULD NOT BELIEVE HOW AMAZING IT WAS....
So if you don't stretch. Stretch.
I was never a stretcher. At all. I brushed it off. Considered it completely unnecessary.
I have had running friends tell me to please, please, please make sure that I stretch post-run--as they have nursed their own injuries that stretching may have prevented.
But I still scoffed at such far fetched ideas as stretching.
I never did before. So why start now?
After Erin and I finished the half in Oct., we collected our medal (TOP PRIORITY), wrapped ourselves in a foil cape, and walked to the car.
We ran a 13.1 mile race and never stretched. I wasn't walking very well the next day--not that stretching necessarily would have made a huge difference in day-after legs, but I am wondering if the lack of stretching contributed to my knee problems that occurred post-half.
Anyhow, the past few runs my knee had been hurting a bit. Nothing serious, but just enough of a pain to remind me that there was once a more serious pain there. And that more serious pain could come out to play again.
Russ and I had finished a tempo run and I mentioned my knee pain to him. He told me that I really needed to stretch.
So I did.
AND OH MY GOD--I COULD NOT BELIEVE HOW AMAZING IT WAS....
So if you don't stretch. Stretch.
Long Run. Done.
9 miles at 6 a.m. + completely overcast skies + comfortable temp and humidity + allowing self to actually run at target pace = PERFECTION
Dear Weather Gods:
Please recreate the weather this morning on the morning of the B2B.
Thank you.
Dear Weather Gods:
Please recreate the weather this morning on the morning of the B2B.
Thank you.
Friday, July 23, 2010
A very disjointed post
I am training for the B2B, which is in 2 short weeks...then I will move on to the 1/2 training for the ME Half Marathon...followed by THE TRAINING.
I will say that I am moderately concerned about training for a marathon in the winter--though December tends to be not the snowiest month...so let's hope that holds true.
Today I am enjoying a glorious day of rest--one thing I struggle with is incorporating cross training on rest/cross training days. Though today I am ok with just rest since tomorrow is Long Run day--9 miles. During our half training last year, I really enjoyed Long Runs--though summer Long Runs are not quite as enjoyable.
I had a 6 mile tempo on Wed (1 mile warm up and cool down with 4 miles at tempo pace)--it felt ok--I ran it too fast and had a hard time imagining running FASTER than that pace for an additional 2 miles.
You never know how you are going to "feel" on race day--and I know that people must be able to conjure up some mental toughness override button, so that no matter how they feel--they perform as though they feel great. I let my mind take over--not a good thing.
I need to work on my B2B playlist--last year my ipod was FROZEN at the start of the race--not exactly my plan. I desperately tried to get it to work. To no avail. So the only thing I heard during the entire race was my gasping for air. And an occasional groan.
For the 1/2, Erin and I had agreed that we wouldn't use our music until 10 miles in (we learned to enjoy running sans music during training). Music can really boost you--except if your f'ng headphones don't work because they got wet. It was a tad disheartening to crave music--no, to NEED music, only to hear garbled and tinny notes...
BUT
I know how to unfreeze my ipod now.
I have new waterproof headphones.
Time to select the Perfect Playlist...
I will say that I am moderately concerned about training for a marathon in the winter--though December tends to be not the snowiest month...so let's hope that holds true.
Today I am enjoying a glorious day of rest--one thing I struggle with is incorporating cross training on rest/cross training days. Though today I am ok with just rest since tomorrow is Long Run day--9 miles. During our half training last year, I really enjoyed Long Runs--though summer Long Runs are not quite as enjoyable.
I had a 6 mile tempo on Wed (1 mile warm up and cool down with 4 miles at tempo pace)--it felt ok--I ran it too fast and had a hard time imagining running FASTER than that pace for an additional 2 miles.
You never know how you are going to "feel" on race day--and I know that people must be able to conjure up some mental toughness override button, so that no matter how they feel--they perform as though they feel great. I let my mind take over--not a good thing.
I need to work on my B2B playlist--last year my ipod was FROZEN at the start of the race--not exactly my plan. I desperately tried to get it to work. To no avail. So the only thing I heard during the entire race was my gasping for air. And an occasional groan.
For the 1/2, Erin and I had agreed that we wouldn't use our music until 10 miles in (we learned to enjoy running sans music during training). Music can really boost you--except if your f'ng headphones don't work because they got wet. It was a tad disheartening to crave music--no, to NEED music, only to hear garbled and tinny notes...
BUT
I know how to unfreeze my ipod now.
I have new waterproof headphones.
Time to select the Perfect Playlist...
Monday, July 19, 2010
What's the plan?
I think that most running plans are pretty much the same. I am going to see how I like the way this plan I am currently following gets me prepped for the B2B this year. And then we will go from there.
In terms of race preparation goes, we have:
1. Registered. And paid the exorbitant fee--marathons aren't cheap!
2. Reserved our hotel for our stay.
3. Decided our fuel during the race will be Snickers.
In terms of race preparation goes, we have:
1. Registered. And paid the exorbitant fee--marathons aren't cheap!
2. Reserved our hotel for our stay.
3. Decided our fuel during the race will be Snickers.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
So...
Erin and I are planning on running in Disney. Like through the parks. Like RUNNING THE DISNEY MARATHON. And no, I did not leave out the word HALF.
I personally had no particular desire to do a marathon. We had heard about the Disney Half and Marathon. And the real selling point was that the Finisher's Medal is Mickey Mouse. Now, we aren't total Disney people or anything but come on. A Mickey medal? Pretty sweet.
So we were set to do the Half.
Until we learned that the Finisher's Medal for the Half? DONALD DUCK.
Clearly we had no choice but to do the marathon...for the medal.
So I will sporadically update on here...I won't be talking about this on my regular blog which is still open...I am very cautious when it comes to blogging and work...and I will have to take a couple of personal days to make this work. And I don't particularly feel like broadcasting that...so it is a secret...Shhhhh
I personally had no particular desire to do a marathon. We had heard about the Disney Half and Marathon. And the real selling point was that the Finisher's Medal is Mickey Mouse. Now, we aren't total Disney people or anything but come on. A Mickey medal? Pretty sweet.
So we were set to do the Half.
Until we learned that the Finisher's Medal for the Half? DONALD DUCK.
Clearly we had no choice but to do the marathon...for the medal.
So I will sporadically update on here...I won't be talking about this on my regular blog which is still open...I am very cautious when it comes to blogging and work...and I will have to take a couple of personal days to make this work. And I don't particularly feel like broadcasting that...so it is a secret...Shhhhh
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