Ah, the Holidays.....visions of sugar plums dancing their way right to my waist.....
Last week was rough...okay, the last TWO weeks were rough!
With record snow falls in Seattle, getting around town, let alone getting out to exercise, was hard! And then there's the sugar.....what else am I going to do while finishing up my Christmas projects but gorge on cookies and chocolate! I was OUT OF CONTROL!!!!
I did manage to get on the treadmill twice last week--in between trying to get to work and getting home for Christmas. And I did do a fair amount of walking, so all was not lost, but it is time to get back on the band wagon.
...I'm back to tracking my food and exercise this week. It feels good to feel a little more in control.
My workouts have been fun over the last few days. I'm not following any particular training structure....more of a.....let's get to the gym and just see what happens kind of a thing.
Monday I ran 4 miles on my lunch break--I did some speed play--went fast when I felt like going fast; went slow when I wanted to go slow. I'm also building some strength training back into my routine--did some arm work yesterday (very sore today), and did a couple miles on the treadmill, and a little bit on this pretty cool stairclimer thing-a-majiggy. It was kind of a combo between a stairclimer and a treadmill....sort of....I definitely felt it in my thighs. Took the dog for a walk in the evening.
Today....probably a slow jog on the treadmill....we'll see what happens.
Running club has been on hold for the last couple of weeks (weather/ holidays). It will be great to resume next weekend. We've had some great runs. The last one we did was a trail run at Camp Long....very fun!!! Looking forward to more group runs!
Off to Orcas Island tomorrow for 3 days--hoping to get some running in there (or hiking at Mt. Constitution at the very least!). Happy New Year to all--All best for 2009!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Running with a new purpose
You know how these things go....I let the blog fall off the radar for awhile, but such is the ebb and flow of things in life. I think this particular ebb was part of a more relaxed focus on my "training", and it sort of become a natural bi-product of that new approach.
I ran the Seattle 1/2 marathon Thanksgiving weekend. It was a fantastic experience. The course was tough--lots of hills. But it was so beautiful. It was the first large event I've done. More than 12,000 runners. It was quite a feeling looking ahead and behind--thousands of feet pounding the pavement--the largest rhythm band I've ever been a part of. Clip-clop; clip-clip-clop clop clop clop clip.
Of course, I overdressed. The weather was great. Unusually warm, and the mist from the fog provided good relief from the warmth of my many layers. I did lose my hat along the way.
I had to climb a barrier to get to the starting line.
The streets of Downtown belonged to us.
Two guys running with a stereo blaring Reggae.
Seeing thousands of people ahead and behind as we ran up the ramp past Safeco field.
Running through the I-90 tunnel.
Spectator-lined streets.
Lake WA Blvd is beautiful.
A killer hill at mile 7.5 (Madison Ave).
Running through the Arboretum--winding, winding up then back downtown.
Hey, look, there's my office and my favorite coffee spot.
Tired. One mile to go. Downhill hurts my hip.
Hey look, there's Cory's office.
Finishing in the stadium.
Mom, Ben, and Cory waiting at the finish line.
Food, glorious food!!
I'm embracing this new relaxed training. It's time to for a new mental training--to get back to the root of why I have come to love running: Finding the simple things that inspire during each outing. Like taking in all the beautiful holiday lights; enjoying the crisp clean winter air; not holding oneself to certain paces or distances; but to go out with the idea of discovery.
I have plans for resuming the other more structured, goal-oriented training in the coming year. (2009 goals: Light at the End of the Tunnell marathon; Return to Pacific Crest and run the 1/2 marathon; NYC marathon w/ Mariah).
But for now, I want to enjoy the peace of the season.
I ran the Seattle 1/2 marathon Thanksgiving weekend. It was a fantastic experience. The course was tough--lots of hills. But it was so beautiful. It was the first large event I've done. More than 12,000 runners. It was quite a feeling looking ahead and behind--thousands of feet pounding the pavement--the largest rhythm band I've ever been a part of. Clip-clop; clip-clip-clop clop clop clop clip.
Of course, I overdressed. The weather was great. Unusually warm, and the mist from the fog provided good relief from the warmth of my many layers. I did lose my hat along the way.
I had to climb a barrier to get to the starting line.
The streets of Downtown belonged to us.
Two guys running with a stereo blaring Reggae.
Seeing thousands of people ahead and behind as we ran up the ramp past Safeco field.
Running through the I-90 tunnel.
Spectator-lined streets.
Lake WA Blvd is beautiful.
A killer hill at mile 7.5 (Madison Ave).
Running through the Arboretum--winding, winding up then back downtown.
Hey, look, there's my office and my favorite coffee spot.
Tired. One mile to go. Downhill hurts my hip.
Hey look, there's Cory's office.
Finishing in the stadium.
Mom, Ben, and Cory waiting at the finish line.
Food, glorious food!!
I'm embracing this new relaxed training. It's time to for a new mental training--to get back to the root of why I have come to love running: Finding the simple things that inspire during each outing. Like taking in all the beautiful holiday lights; enjoying the crisp clean winter air; not holding oneself to certain paces or distances; but to go out with the idea of discovery.
I have plans for resuming the other more structured, goal-oriented training in the coming year. (2009 goals: Light at the End of the Tunnell marathon; Return to Pacific Crest and run the 1/2 marathon; NYC marathon w/ Mariah).
But for now, I want to enjoy the peace of the season.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Push it Real Good......
Here's what mile 11 looked like during B-ham 1/2 when I started to lose steam:
http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=06PX001E060046&po=46
It's really not as painful as it looks....I swear! I always scowl when I run. And--there's the reason you don't purchase race photos! ;-)
http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=06PX001E060046&po=46
It's really not as painful as it looks....I swear! I always scowl when I run. And--there's the reason you don't purchase race photos! ;-)
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Mad Dash to Bellingham
Bellingham 1/2 Marathon. Sunday, September 28.
Comedy of Errors getting to the starting line:
left my sister's place in Mt. Vernon later than planned.
5 minutes from her place, we got pulled over for a burnt-out headlight.
The Trooper was nice, and let us go pretty quickly after discovering Cory (who was driving) did not come back as quote "an axe murderer out of Kansas". (phew!)
Mapquest directions had us exit I-5 much earlier than necessary. So as we're winding our way through the backroads, we are realizing the race will start in 15 minutes.
We find our way to the starting point, I jump out of the car and race to pick up our packets while Cory and Carol find parking. We plan to meet in front of a large sign.
I can't find packet pick up, and no one seems to be able to tell me where it is. Phew...I find it after running in a few circles. I successfully grab our bib #'s, and timing chips (later to find out Carol's timing chip was not in her packet). But I'm still in my warm-up gear, am carrying my coat, and I have to use the bathroom in the WORST way.
I dash back to the meeting place. No sign of Carol or Cory. I run back to dump my gear at bag check. Think about going to the bathroom, but the line is literally 40 people long. I consider using the men's--even went inside, but all stalls were full. I run back to our meeting spot, and Cory is there, but no Carol. I give him Carol's pack to hand off, and then dash back to the restroom.
The announcer calls 2 min. to start.
The line isn't budging.
One minute to start.
Everyone scatters.
I slip into the stall, take care of business, and step into the starting line with 30 seconds to spare.
Still no sign of Carol.
Start gun goes off....and I glimpse Carol ahead close to the starting line. Glad to see she made it.
So rushed to get to the start, no time to even think about what I'm about to do.
The course was BEAUTIFUL. We wound through downtown, through suburban Bellingham, then through a lovely wooded park. Then we meandered down a long tree-lined boulevard and ended up in an industrial area for a brief period. Then back through downtown--to begin the 2nd half. 2nd half was hilly, but I was well prepared. We wound along Railroad Avenue rolling up and down, up and down, along until running through Old Fairhaven. Then down along the Interurban trail winding back to the finish line.
The weather was wonderful. Not a cloud in the sky. It was brisk--my arms tingled from the cold air, but great for running. It was fun being part of a larger race. I think there were close to 2000 runners. Hearing the clipping of feet along mostly silent streets, getting cheers from the crowd as we passed through populated areas.
I hit 'the wall' around mile 12, and slowed quite a bit, but ran through finishing in 2:13:49. (10:12 mile average). I felt great about my time, and time really seemed to suspend during the run.
We stayed and watched other finishers, and the first few marathon finishers, then moved on to Boundary Bay for victory beer and crowd watching.
Carol finished about 10 min. ahead of me. Next race goal--to keep pace with her! We're on the search for our next 1/2.
Comedy of Errors getting to the starting line:
left my sister's place in Mt. Vernon later than planned.
5 minutes from her place, we got pulled over for a burnt-out headlight.
The Trooper was nice, and let us go pretty quickly after discovering Cory (who was driving) did not come back as quote "an axe murderer out of Kansas". (phew!)
Mapquest directions had us exit I-5 much earlier than necessary. So as we're winding our way through the backroads, we are realizing the race will start in 15 minutes.
We find our way to the starting point, I jump out of the car and race to pick up our packets while Cory and Carol find parking. We plan to meet in front of a large sign.
I can't find packet pick up, and no one seems to be able to tell me where it is. Phew...I find it after running in a few circles. I successfully grab our bib #'s, and timing chips (later to find out Carol's timing chip was not in her packet). But I'm still in my warm-up gear, am carrying my coat, and I have to use the bathroom in the WORST way.
I dash back to the meeting place. No sign of Carol or Cory. I run back to dump my gear at bag check. Think about going to the bathroom, but the line is literally 40 people long. I consider using the men's--even went inside, but all stalls were full. I run back to our meeting spot, and Cory is there, but no Carol. I give him Carol's pack to hand off, and then dash back to the restroom.
The announcer calls 2 min. to start.
The line isn't budging.
One minute to start.
Everyone scatters.
I slip into the stall, take care of business, and step into the starting line with 30 seconds to spare.
Still no sign of Carol.
Start gun goes off....and I glimpse Carol ahead close to the starting line. Glad to see she made it.
So rushed to get to the start, no time to even think about what I'm about to do.
The course was BEAUTIFUL. We wound through downtown, through suburban Bellingham, then through a lovely wooded park. Then we meandered down a long tree-lined boulevard and ended up in an industrial area for a brief period. Then back through downtown--to begin the 2nd half. 2nd half was hilly, but I was well prepared. We wound along Railroad Avenue rolling up and down, up and down, along until running through Old Fairhaven. Then down along the Interurban trail winding back to the finish line.
The weather was wonderful. Not a cloud in the sky. It was brisk--my arms tingled from the cold air, but great for running. It was fun being part of a larger race. I think there were close to 2000 runners. Hearing the clipping of feet along mostly silent streets, getting cheers from the crowd as we passed through populated areas.
I hit 'the wall' around mile 12, and slowed quite a bit, but ran through finishing in 2:13:49. (10:12 mile average). I felt great about my time, and time really seemed to suspend during the run.
We stayed and watched other finishers, and the first few marathon finishers, then moved on to Boundary Bay for victory beer and crowd watching.
Carol finished about 10 min. ahead of me. Next race goal--to keep pace with her! We're on the search for our next 1/2.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
1 week to Bellingham
It's been far too long since I posted!
Just got back from a long weekend on the Oregon Coast. Did a little running on the beach. It was fantastic. We had the most beautiful weather!
Bellingham 1/2 Marathon is just over a week away. I can't believe how quickly it has snuck up--but I feel good about it. My training has been steady. The workouts have been good quality, and my mileage has been high enough I should cruise through it okay.
Okay...maybe not "cruise" through it, but if I stick to my race day plan, I think I can achieve my time goal. I'd like to finish in 2 hours--that'd be averaging between a 9 and 9:30 per mile pace.
I'm going in with the plan to treat the run as such: 10 mile run, then 5k race (total of 13.2 miles). I will start with a nice easy pace for the first mile or so, then swing into a steady rhythm, and then kick it up for the last 3.2 miles. The trick is to be smart about my pacing. I have a tendency to start too fast sometimes.
I'm hoping to start a running group amongst friends...looks like there's plenty of interest. Looking forward to seeing how it all goes. No expectations--just want to get in some social running!
Just got back from a long weekend on the Oregon Coast. Did a little running on the beach. It was fantastic. We had the most beautiful weather!
Bellingham 1/2 Marathon is just over a week away. I can't believe how quickly it has snuck up--but I feel good about it. My training has been steady. The workouts have been good quality, and my mileage has been high enough I should cruise through it okay.
Okay...maybe not "cruise" through it, but if I stick to my race day plan, I think I can achieve my time goal. I'd like to finish in 2 hours--that'd be averaging between a 9 and 9:30 per mile pace.
I'm going in with the plan to treat the run as such: 10 mile run, then 5k race (total of 13.2 miles). I will start with a nice easy pace for the first mile or so, then swing into a steady rhythm, and then kick it up for the last 3.2 miles. The trick is to be smart about my pacing. I have a tendency to start too fast sometimes.
I'm hoping to start a running group amongst friends...looks like there's plenty of interest. Looking forward to seeing how it all goes. No expectations--just want to get in some social running!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
The need for speed
Loving this new workout schedule. Has me doing speedwork Tues/Thurs--easy day Wed/Sat, and a long run on Sundays. Love the speed sessions--has me focusing on smaller distances at certain paces--just a new way to focus during the workouts.
Example-yesterday:
1/2 mi warm up; easy pace
1 mile; Cruise Interval (10k pace)
1/2 mi recovery; easy pace
1 mile; Cruise Interval (10k pace)
1/2 mi recovery; easy pace
6 x 200 m; Speed Interval (5k pace)
200 m recovery between each speed interval
10 minute walk cool-down
Tonight Cory and I are running Greenlake--an easy 3 miler--probably run/walk.
Also adding a marathon to my calendar for next Summer: http://www.littlemarathon.com/littlemarathon/tunnel/
It starts somewhere in Snoqualmie Pass and ends in North Bend--you run through a 2 mile tunnel--with a pinpoint of light at the end guiding your way.
I think I've roped Joe into it with me! Woot! Woot!
Example-yesterday:
1/2 mi warm up; easy pace
1 mile; Cruise Interval (10k pace)
1/2 mi recovery; easy pace
1 mile; Cruise Interval (10k pace)
1/2 mi recovery; easy pace
6 x 200 m; Speed Interval (5k pace)
200 m recovery between each speed interval
10 minute walk cool-down
Tonight Cory and I are running Greenlake--an easy 3 miler--probably run/walk.
Also adding a marathon to my calendar for next Summer: http://www.littlemarathon.com/littlemarathon/tunnel/
It starts somewhere in Snoqualmie Pass and ends in North Bend--you run through a 2 mile tunnel--with a pinpoint of light at the end guiding your way.
I think I've roped Joe into it with me! Woot! Woot!
Monday, August 25, 2008
October in August
A topic of great discussion around Seattle--the weather! Argh! I'm already pulling out my sweaters!
I planned on my long run for yesterday evening, thinking we'd have a hot day, and the evening would bring ideal temperatures for a run. Not the case. It was a beautiful sunny morning, but the clouds quickly rolled in.
I kept thinking it might break late in the day, but no such luck. I almost decided to 'brave' the rain, but thinking about how cold it can get---and 10 miles of it--no thanks! Also didn't feel like 2 hours at the gym--so what to do? I didn't want to skip the run, especially with the race only a month away.
I lugged our treadmill out into the living room, opened all the windows, and doors, got the fan going too. (It gets stuffy being on the top floor). Turned on the boob tube, and off I went. Yes, folks. 2 hours on the treadmill. I managed NOT to die of boredom! I'm sure I drove our downstairs neighbor crazy with the noise of the treadmill and TV for 2 hours. But, no complaints, so I guess that's a good sign!
The run went pretty well--trying to be really diligent about not pushing myself too hard. Especially with the speed workouts I'm doing. I slowed it way down and took lots of walk breaks. Wish I had more to share about exciting things I saw along my 'route', but I'm not sure you all want a play by play of what was going on in my mind for those 2 hours. It might scare you away!
...the sun will supposedly be out to play closer to the weekend.
Still dark and grey out, but the air does feel nice. Today is a rest day, but might be a good afternoon for a walk at Alki.
I planned on my long run for yesterday evening, thinking we'd have a hot day, and the evening would bring ideal temperatures for a run. Not the case. It was a beautiful sunny morning, but the clouds quickly rolled in.
I kept thinking it might break late in the day, but no such luck. I almost decided to 'brave' the rain, but thinking about how cold it can get---and 10 miles of it--no thanks! Also didn't feel like 2 hours at the gym--so what to do? I didn't want to skip the run, especially with the race only a month away.
I lugged our treadmill out into the living room, opened all the windows, and doors, got the fan going too. (It gets stuffy being on the top floor). Turned on the boob tube, and off I went. Yes, folks. 2 hours on the treadmill. I managed NOT to die of boredom! I'm sure I drove our downstairs neighbor crazy with the noise of the treadmill and TV for 2 hours. But, no complaints, so I guess that's a good sign!
The run went pretty well--trying to be really diligent about not pushing myself too hard. Especially with the speed workouts I'm doing. I slowed it way down and took lots of walk breaks. Wish I had more to share about exciting things I saw along my 'route', but I'm not sure you all want a play by play of what was going on in my mind for those 2 hours. It might scare you away!
...the sun will supposedly be out to play closer to the weekend.
Still dark and grey out, but the air does feel nice. Today is a rest day, but might be a good afternoon for a walk at Alki.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Last minute race--5k PR!
Up in Mt. Vernon visiting my seester and fam! Found a 5k going on this morning here in town--all proceeds go towards a local charity fighting hunger.
Christa decided to join in, too. So she and I, Mom, and Jaxon all loaded up in the car this morning and made our way to the start line!
Great morning for a race! Warm weather, but not too hot. Christa decided she was going to keep up with me as long as she could (never thought I'd be able to say that!). She ran a GREAT race. We were together for the first 1/2 mile until her shoe came untied and she had to stop to fix it.
Happy to report a PR of 26:34! (8:33 mile pace). Christa finished her first ever 5k in 28:33! Awesome! She placed first in her age division. I placed 3rd in mine. It was a small race, but still fun to "medal" in a race. (Okay, it was a ribbon and a t-shirt, but still fun!)
Blueberry pancake breakfast to follow, then we hit up the Farmer's Market. My nephew is hilarious!
10 mile long run tomorrow. I'm tired this afternoon. This week had a couple of speed sessions and great yoga classes. Probably will wait until evening for the long run.
Christa decided to join in, too. So she and I, Mom, and Jaxon all loaded up in the car this morning and made our way to the start line!
Great morning for a race! Warm weather, but not too hot. Christa decided she was going to keep up with me as long as she could (never thought I'd be able to say that!). She ran a GREAT race. We were together for the first 1/2 mile until her shoe came untied and she had to stop to fix it.
Happy to report a PR of 26:34! (8:33 mile pace). Christa finished her first ever 5k in 28:33! Awesome! She placed first in her age division. I placed 3rd in mine. It was a small race, but still fun to "medal" in a race. (Okay, it was a ribbon and a t-shirt, but still fun!)
Blueberry pancake breakfast to follow, then we hit up the Farmer's Market. My nephew is hilarious!
10 mile long run tomorrow. I'm tired this afternoon. This week had a couple of speed sessions and great yoga classes. Probably will wait until evening for the long run.
Monday, August 18, 2008
A Charitable Cause
Very tired during my 6 mile run yesterday, but I pushed on through. New training schedule has me rest Fridays, then run Sat & Sun, and rest Monday. It will allow my body to get more used to "running tired" doing my long runs (Sun) the day after a speed session (Sat).
My friend Mariah (for those of you who don't know her) and I have committed to doing the NYC marathon in November of next year. I've been really wanting to do a big race, and the thought of New York has crossed my mind several times. That's why when Mariah approached me about doing it together I was soooo excited!
This will be Mariah's first marathon! It's great having a long-distance training partner, and I'm looking forward to working together!
Here's the catch--it is very hard to get a spot in the race unless you have been rejected 3 years in a row, or you are an elite runner (4-5 min. miles). Since we can't keep up with the Kenyans, we'll go the 3rd route: raising money to support a charity is practically a guaranteed entrance! Otherwise, to get in you have to enter a lottery. And we certainly don't want to leave it to chance. Details will unfold as we begin planning--will keep ya posted.
Rest today--yoga tonight. 5 miles tomorrow, 4 miles Wed, 4 miles Thurs, rest Friday, 5k Sat., 12 miles Sunday. Visiting my sister this coming weekend--noticed there's a charity 5k in Mt. Vernon. The money goes towards hunger relief. Looking forward to seeing how I do!
My friend Mariah (for those of you who don't know her) and I have committed to doing the NYC marathon in November of next year. I've been really wanting to do a big race, and the thought of New York has crossed my mind several times. That's why when Mariah approached me about doing it together I was soooo excited!
This will be Mariah's first marathon! It's great having a long-distance training partner, and I'm looking forward to working together!
Here's the catch--it is very hard to get a spot in the race unless you have been rejected 3 years in a row, or you are an elite runner (4-5 min. miles). Since we can't keep up with the Kenyans, we'll go the 3rd route: raising money to support a charity is practically a guaranteed entrance! Otherwise, to get in you have to enter a lottery. And we certainly don't want to leave it to chance. Details will unfold as we begin planning--will keep ya posted.
Rest today--yoga tonight. 5 miles tomorrow, 4 miles Wed, 4 miles Thurs, rest Friday, 5k Sat., 12 miles Sunday. Visiting my sister this coming weekend--noticed there's a charity 5k in Mt. Vernon. The money goes towards hunger relief. Looking forward to seeing how I do!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
2009 New York City Marathon
Committed to doing the 2009 NYC ING Marathon. I'm VERY excited. More details to come soon!!!
You can't rush recovery....
I didn't anticipate how loooooong recovery might take. I wasn't prepared, but glad to say that now, more than 6 weeks later, I'm back to 100%. My IT band is good--still a bit of stiffness, but Yoga and more attention to stretching is a giant help. Also, less intense training.
Mostly what seemed to take the most time to bounce back, was my mental energy. A couple of weeks of a bit of the blues--nothing severe, but made focusing at work hard. But, I kept busy with things and took time to focus on friends and family in a way I hadn't in awhile!
Now focusing on balancing my schedule between work, friends, family, and a training plan I can be happy with. I'm getting there!
I have my next race on my schedule: Bellingham 1/2 marathon--September 28th. I'm running it with my friend Carol. I'm hoping I can keep up with her!
I biffed it pretty hard during my long run last weekend. It was one of those runs where I was crusing along in a euphoric state--at one with the world. The weather was perfect, the sun was just setting, the breeze was warm. Then all of the sudden I'm lying on the ground. Not sure what I tripped on--an air pocket I suppose.
A nice couple asked if I was okay, and gave me a bandaid--it covered the small gash on my hand, but my leg looks like I took a spill on my bike, and my hip is a little bruised, but it's nothing too terrible. I was able to get up and run the rest of the way home. I even found my focus again pretty quickly.
My goal for Bellingham is to shoot for finishing under 2 hours. I'm having fun with the new training schedule--it includes some speed work. This week has been a recovery week. 6 miles planned for this evening when the weather cools down. For now, I'll sit here and enjoy my coffee on this lazy Sunday morning.
Mostly what seemed to take the most time to bounce back, was my mental energy. A couple of weeks of a bit of the blues--nothing severe, but made focusing at work hard. But, I kept busy with things and took time to focus on friends and family in a way I hadn't in awhile!
Now focusing on balancing my schedule between work, friends, family, and a training plan I can be happy with. I'm getting there!
I have my next race on my schedule: Bellingham 1/2 marathon--September 28th. I'm running it with my friend Carol. I'm hoping I can keep up with her!
I biffed it pretty hard during my long run last weekend. It was one of those runs where I was crusing along in a euphoric state--at one with the world. The weather was perfect, the sun was just setting, the breeze was warm. Then all of the sudden I'm lying on the ground. Not sure what I tripped on--an air pocket I suppose.
A nice couple asked if I was okay, and gave me a bandaid--it covered the small gash on my hand, but my leg looks like I took a spill on my bike, and my hip is a little bruised, but it's nothing too terrible. I was able to get up and run the rest of the way home. I even found my focus again pretty quickly.
My goal for Bellingham is to shoot for finishing under 2 hours. I'm having fun with the new training schedule--it includes some speed work. This week has been a recovery week. 6 miles planned for this evening when the weather cools down. For now, I'll sit here and enjoy my coffee on this lazy Sunday morning.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
The Afterlife
I meant to post sooner, but I found I needed some time to separate myself from the marathon and let it all sink in---to reflect on the past 9 months, and to let my body begin to recover.
Recovery has been interesting. It's been a combination of ups and downs. I miss my long runs. But my body still isn't capable of running more than 30 or 40 minutes at a time w/out fatigue. I've cut back to running 3 days a week. I'm just now (2 1/2 weeks after the marathon), beginning to feel my energy coming back in my legs. Nice, slow, steady running for this girl. If I push at all, I pay for it the next day. No aches or pains--just fatigue. So, I'm trying very, very hard to be patient and just enjoy leisurely activity.
It's hard NOT to run faster or harder--my mind wants to take over. It gets frustrated, and even though I KNOW that I need to focus on recovery, the amateur competitor in me struggles with my logical side. So, I've had to spend some time just repeating to myself that it's okay. No rushing. Take time. Relax. Your not in any hurry. You just completed something that took 9 months to reach and it took a big physical toll--it's time to just enjoy yourself.
I will post more soon. It's lunchtime and I'm hungry. I've decided to keep the blog going--more to come.
I started a Yoga class last week. Bikram or "Hot" Yogs. Class is taught in a heated room (about 105 degrees). I always leave feeling so calm and relaxed, but also that I've worked really hard. It's a tougher workout than I expected.
Recovery has been interesting. It's been a combination of ups and downs. I miss my long runs. But my body still isn't capable of running more than 30 or 40 minutes at a time w/out fatigue. I've cut back to running 3 days a week. I'm just now (2 1/2 weeks after the marathon), beginning to feel my energy coming back in my legs. Nice, slow, steady running for this girl. If I push at all, I pay for it the next day. No aches or pains--just fatigue. So, I'm trying very, very hard to be patient and just enjoy leisurely activity.
It's hard NOT to run faster or harder--my mind wants to take over. It gets frustrated, and even though I KNOW that I need to focus on recovery, the amateur competitor in me struggles with my logical side. So, I've had to spend some time just repeating to myself that it's okay. No rushing. Take time. Relax. Your not in any hurry. You just completed something that took 9 months to reach and it took a big physical toll--it's time to just enjoy yourself.
I will post more soon. It's lunchtime and I'm hungry. I've decided to keep the blog going--more to come.
I started a Yoga class last week. Bikram or "Hot" Yogs. Class is taught in a heated room (about 105 degrees). I always leave feeling so calm and relaxed, but also that I've worked really hard. It's a tougher workout than I expected.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
26.2 miles of road, less traveled
Sunriver, Oregon
Saturday June 28th
5am alarm clock
Another alarm at 5:15.
out of bed by 5:30
dressed for the race by 5:45
Power bar, Water, a half cup of coffee @ 6am
Pacing our rental house until leaving for the race @ 6:45
Bib # -- check
Timing chip -- check
Sports beans -- check
I talk to a man about to begin his 871st marathon.
He ran his 870th last weekend.
At 7:15 it's already 65 degrees.
Athletes walk to starting line
Quick debriefing
7:30 am start gun goes and we're off
Mom and uncle Ivan at the start snapping pictures and cheering me on.
Passed mile 1 just before 10 min.
Temperature is already quite warm
Pacing feels pretty good--"slow and steady" I say to myself
Reached mile 2 @ about 20 min.
Cory is waiting there with cheers and Gatorade
Ken-from-Indiana and I play leapfrog for several miles.
Miles 3 -5 are done in another 30 minutes.
Josie is @ mile 4 with Gatorade
She holds a sign saying "You can do it Miriam"
I'm on my target pace, but....
By mile 5 I'm usually feeling warmed up. Limber, and settled into my pace.
I am guessing it's 70 degrees by now.
My body feels sluggish and heavy, but I press on--slowing pace slightly.
Mile 6--Scott and Cory greet me with more electrolytes and encouragement
By now, Ken-from-Indiana and I have passed each other several times
Mile 8--Ben is there with more to drink and a pat on the back.
I've settled into a good pace now and finally feel like I'm in a bit of a groove.
I slowly pull ahead of several runners I've been tailing.
Mile 10--the path changes from partly shady to direct sun.
Shade no longer exists.
The scenery is beautiful.
golden grass, snow-capped peaks, a lazy river.
It's hot.
It's getting hotter.
Mile 10 - 13.
I keep a steady pace.
Mom, Christa, Jaxon and Ivan make several appearances.
Aid stations provide water which I immediately dump over my head.
Thank God I bought a visor just before the race.
Spectators are few and far between, but they are enthusiastic.
A 7 yr. old girl tells me I'm strong and I can do it!
I pass a line of people headed out on a horseback ride.
Many Half-Marathoners begin passing me--
(they started 1/2 hour later than the marathoners)
They are on the home stretch.
I'm almost half way.
I pass a runner who tells me the 2nd lap sucks. (Gee, thanks!)
My hip is feeling stiff and soar.
I begin to get that "popping" sensation.
I can hear the annoncer as I round the corner back to the beginning of the course.
He is announcing 1/2 marathon finishers.
They go to the right,
Marathoners continue to the left.
13.1 miles down.
Scott, Josie, and Cory are at the halfway point!
It's nice to see familiar faces.
I finish the first half in 2 hrs. and 20 min.
My hip is really getting soar and my knee is starting to hurt.
I try to push the pain out of my mind.
Mile 14, the pain becomes unbearable while running.
With each step it worsens.
I can make it a few minutes before I'm forced to a shuffle
I slow my pace down and insert more frequent walk breaks.
My hip is soar while walking, but it's bearable.
Mile 15-16 I manage to keep running off and on but it hurts.
The temperature has reached 85 degrees by 10 am.
I am pissed. I'm frustrated. I'm in pain.
I'm in denial.
I shed a few tears.
I take stalk of the situation and decide what I'm capable of.
I AM GOING TO FINISH THIS THING!
I decide I will continue to walk and insert very minimal running breaks.
My primary goal has been to finish
My secondary goal was a 4:30 -40 time. That is no longer possible.
I spend miles 17-20 accepting my new pace.
A mental challenge.
The heat and elevation add another level of difficulty.
Mile 21--Mom, Christa, Ivan, Jaxon, and Ben are welcoming faces.
I burst into tears.
I explain the situation.
Christa offers to walk with me.
A woman and her husband are there, too, cheering me on.
Later I find out that Ben had told them my success story.
The woman insisted on staying to see me pass by!
Only 5 miles to go.
Christa decides to meet up with me a little further down the road.
The temperature has now reached the low 90's.
I waddle my way through the beautiful, tree-lined path--
Nearing the part where the path breaks into the open valley.
"Holy @#$%, It's hot out here", I proclaim to myself.
I pass two marathoners.
One woman tells me she is going to throw up.
I ask her if she needs help.
She says no, she'll be fine.
Ken-from-Indiana passes me at about mile 23.
Christa comes from around the corner at about the same time.
She has on my Mom's tennis shoes and walks with me.
We talk about the marathon.
We talk about Jaxon.
She tells me that Dad called to wish me luck, and she's called him with updates on my progress.
The company is good.
We reach mile 24, then mile 25.
Cory and Scott are walking towards us just after mile 25.
The 4 of us walk, and take a couple of very short jog intervals together.
They stay with me until the last 1/2 mile, then run ahead to the finish line to wait for me.
I pass a wedding rehearsal at the Sunriver Lodge.
Spectators grow in numbers as I get closer to the Village finish line.
I can hear the annoncer calling names at the finish line.
I hear him say the temperature is 96 degrees.
I'm close. Very close.
As I head down the last bit of the course before the it curves into the finish line,
I feel a whirlwind of emotions.
Excitement.
Exhaustion.
Accomplishment.
I'm about to finish.
I'm going to be a marathoner.
I see the crowd of people.
I hear the cheers.
I jog the last bit of the course.
I round the corner and there is my family--
lined up with cameras. Cheering, Hollering!
The crowd goes crazy!
The announcer calls my name.
I cross the finish line in 5:28.
I burst into tears.
A volunteer collects my timing chip.
Another volunteer gives me a towel soaked in ice water, and a bottle of water.
At the end of the line I bough my head to accept my finisher's medal.
It feels good to be done.
I go into the athlete's pavillion to get some food and collect my t-shirt.
I meet with my family.
Lots of pictures! Lots of hugs!
We stay to watch other finishers cross the line.
First finishers of the Half-Iron are just starting to cross the finish line.
I wonder what time they started.
My mom treats me to a 20 min. sports massage.
My hip and knee are very soar, and the massage feels great.
I have a slight headache.
Standing in the heat is uncomfortable.
I get some more water, eat a mojo bar, and we begin a slow walk back to the car.
Time to head back to our rental house.
We have a big family celebratory greek-style lunch.
As always, Ben is an amazing chef!
I'm very tired, but not ready to sleep yet.
The night air is still very warm.
It's 9:40 pm.
I'm kind of floating on a cloud right now.
I think this will all slowly sink in over the next several days.
...post-marathon thoughts to follow in coming days......
Saturday June 28th
5am alarm clock
Another alarm at 5:15.
out of bed by 5:30
dressed for the race by 5:45
Power bar, Water, a half cup of coffee @ 6am
Pacing our rental house until leaving for the race @ 6:45
Bib # -- check
Timing chip -- check
Sports beans -- check
I talk to a man about to begin his 871st marathon.
He ran his 870th last weekend.
At 7:15 it's already 65 degrees.
Athletes walk to starting line
Quick debriefing
7:30 am start gun goes and we're off
Mom and uncle Ivan at the start snapping pictures and cheering me on.
Passed mile 1 just before 10 min.
Temperature is already quite warm
Pacing feels pretty good--"slow and steady" I say to myself
Reached mile 2 @ about 20 min.
Cory is waiting there with cheers and Gatorade
Ken-from-Indiana and I play leapfrog for several miles.
Miles 3 -5 are done in another 30 minutes.
Josie is @ mile 4 with Gatorade
She holds a sign saying "You can do it Miriam"
I'm on my target pace, but....
By mile 5 I'm usually feeling warmed up. Limber, and settled into my pace.
I am guessing it's 70 degrees by now.
My body feels sluggish and heavy, but I press on--slowing pace slightly.
Mile 6--Scott and Cory greet me with more electrolytes and encouragement
By now, Ken-from-Indiana and I have passed each other several times
Mile 8--Ben is there with more to drink and a pat on the back.
I've settled into a good pace now and finally feel like I'm in a bit of a groove.
I slowly pull ahead of several runners I've been tailing.
Mile 10--the path changes from partly shady to direct sun.
Shade no longer exists.
The scenery is beautiful.
golden grass, snow-capped peaks, a lazy river.
It's hot.
It's getting hotter.
Mile 10 - 13.
I keep a steady pace.
Mom, Christa, Jaxon and Ivan make several appearances.
Aid stations provide water which I immediately dump over my head.
Thank God I bought a visor just before the race.
Spectators are few and far between, but they are enthusiastic.
A 7 yr. old girl tells me I'm strong and I can do it!
I pass a line of people headed out on a horseback ride.
Many Half-Marathoners begin passing me--
(they started 1/2 hour later than the marathoners)
They are on the home stretch.
I'm almost half way.
I pass a runner who tells me the 2nd lap sucks. (Gee, thanks!)
My hip is feeling stiff and soar.
I begin to get that "popping" sensation.
I can hear the annoncer as I round the corner back to the beginning of the course.
He is announcing 1/2 marathon finishers.
They go to the right,
Marathoners continue to the left.
13.1 miles down.
Scott, Josie, and Cory are at the halfway point!
It's nice to see familiar faces.
I finish the first half in 2 hrs. and 20 min.
My hip is really getting soar and my knee is starting to hurt.
I try to push the pain out of my mind.
Mile 14, the pain becomes unbearable while running.
With each step it worsens.
I can make it a few minutes before I'm forced to a shuffle
I slow my pace down and insert more frequent walk breaks.
My hip is soar while walking, but it's bearable.
Mile 15-16 I manage to keep running off and on but it hurts.
The temperature has reached 85 degrees by 10 am.
I am pissed. I'm frustrated. I'm in pain.
I'm in denial.
I shed a few tears.
I take stalk of the situation and decide what I'm capable of.
I AM GOING TO FINISH THIS THING!
I decide I will continue to walk and insert very minimal running breaks.
My primary goal has been to finish
My secondary goal was a 4:30 -40 time. That is no longer possible.
I spend miles 17-20 accepting my new pace.
A mental challenge.
The heat and elevation add another level of difficulty.
Mile 21--Mom, Christa, Ivan, Jaxon, and Ben are welcoming faces.
I burst into tears.
I explain the situation.
Christa offers to walk with me.
A woman and her husband are there, too, cheering me on.
Later I find out that Ben had told them my success story.
The woman insisted on staying to see me pass by!
Only 5 miles to go.
Christa decides to meet up with me a little further down the road.
The temperature has now reached the low 90's.
I waddle my way through the beautiful, tree-lined path--
Nearing the part where the path breaks into the open valley.
"Holy @#$%, It's hot out here", I proclaim to myself.
I pass two marathoners.
One woman tells me she is going to throw up.
I ask her if she needs help.
She says no, she'll be fine.
Ken-from-Indiana passes me at about mile 23.
Christa comes from around the corner at about the same time.
She has on my Mom's tennis shoes and walks with me.
We talk about the marathon.
We talk about Jaxon.
She tells me that Dad called to wish me luck, and she's called him with updates on my progress.
The company is good.
We reach mile 24, then mile 25.
Cory and Scott are walking towards us just after mile 25.
The 4 of us walk, and take a couple of very short jog intervals together.
They stay with me until the last 1/2 mile, then run ahead to the finish line to wait for me.
I pass a wedding rehearsal at the Sunriver Lodge.
Spectators grow in numbers as I get closer to the Village finish line.
I can hear the annoncer calling names at the finish line.
I hear him say the temperature is 96 degrees.
I'm close. Very close.
As I head down the last bit of the course before the it curves into the finish line,
I feel a whirlwind of emotions.
Excitement.
Exhaustion.
Accomplishment.
I'm about to finish.
I'm going to be a marathoner.
I see the crowd of people.
I hear the cheers.
I jog the last bit of the course.
I round the corner and there is my family--
lined up with cameras. Cheering, Hollering!
The crowd goes crazy!
The announcer calls my name.
I cross the finish line in 5:28.
I burst into tears.
A volunteer collects my timing chip.
Another volunteer gives me a towel soaked in ice water, and a bottle of water.
At the end of the line I bough my head to accept my finisher's medal.
It feels good to be done.
I go into the athlete's pavillion to get some food and collect my t-shirt.
I meet with my family.
Lots of pictures! Lots of hugs!
We stay to watch other finishers cross the line.
First finishers of the Half-Iron are just starting to cross the finish line.
I wonder what time they started.
My mom treats me to a 20 min. sports massage.
My hip and knee are very soar, and the massage feels great.
I have a slight headache.
Standing in the heat is uncomfortable.
I get some more water, eat a mojo bar, and we begin a slow walk back to the car.
Time to head back to our rental house.
We have a big family celebratory greek-style lunch.
As always, Ben is an amazing chef!
I'm very tired, but not ready to sleep yet.
The night air is still very warm.
It's 9:40 pm.
I'm kind of floating on a cloud right now.
I think this will all slowly sink in over the next several days.
...post-marathon thoughts to follow in coming days......
Thursday, June 26, 2008
On the Road to Pacific Crest.....
Here I sit in the cozy upstairs bedroom of Barb and Frank Stanley's wonderful house in Ellensburg. Stacy (Hi Stac!), their daughter, is a good friend of mine from college. They were so great to put me up for the night! Cory and I left Seattle after work yesterday so he could drop me off here. My Mom and Stepdad, Ben, will pick me up here in a couple of hours.
Cory had to turn around and drive right back to Seattle last night to work today. He and Christa and my nephew will make the trip down to Oregon tomorrow morning. (Thanks Cor for bringing me over--I know it was an extra long day!)
It is a beautiful, sunny morning here. The ever-present Ellensburg gale is rustling only slightly this morning, gently swaying the trees outside the window. Mojito, the Stanleys' big grey and white kitty, has jumped up into my lap and is fighting for my affection. Ella, one of two dogs, is also nuzzling in for some love. Konia (dog #2), is still a little unsure of me, and is content to just keep to her own affairs.
Barb took me on a tour of Ellensburg last night to see how much things have changed in the short time since I've been gone.
Lots of new businesses I see--ever-changing.
An unbelievable number of housing developments.
A brand new Student Union and Rec Center on Campus.
Many businesses now closed downtown.
They closed down my favorite D&M Coffee spot (Though only for leasing reasons, the company is still alive and thriving!)
I CAN'T WAIT to get my cup of D&M this morning after my parents arrive. Nothing compares!
After spending some time catching up with Barb last night, I snuggled in with a book, and shortly fell asleep. This morning I woke up at about 6am, and spent the morning lying in bed with my book and just thinking about Saturdays race.
I feel really good. I feel well prepared and that I planned my time well. Today and tomorrow are crucial for resting. I'm glad we arrive in Sunriver today so I can check out the course and relax in the house and enjoy the beautiful weather and time with my family.
Last Saturday was my final 8 miler. I had a full day planned, so I got up and hit Alki early--8am. Felt physically and mentally strong. Spent part of the day at the Fremont Solstice, then went to a baby shower in the afternoon.
Sunday and Monday were both rest days. I did an easy 3.5 mile run Tuesday. Rested yesterday, and will do an easy 1-2 mile at some point today--probably consisting mostly of walking. No running tomorrow.
26.2 miles on Saturday.
I've been spending some time mentally rehearsing the race. Thinking about ways of getting myself through some rough spots--should they arise. Again, I feel really well prepared. The one thing I'm concerned a bit about is the weather. Forecast says 90 as the high that day. BUT, the race starts at 7:30, so I should be finishing around the time it will really start getting hot. And, I'll just have to slow down if the weather is hot....and that is okay! The important thing is to be smart, pace myself, and just finish!
Today slight carb loading begins, and will kick up tomorrow--along with increased fluid intake. 6-8oz. every hour--alternating between gatorade and water. Small meals about every 1.5 hours consisting mostly of carbs--avoiding high fat/ high protein/ high sodium foods. Essentially I'll be eating a lot of cereal and powerbars--foods that are easy to digest and will load up my glycogen stores!
I'll be thinking of all of you throughout the next couple of days. I most certainly could not have met this challenge without the incredible support I've received from everyone! Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart! I can't think of a single person that has not been supportive--all of you have allowed me to succeed!
Happy Trails!
Cory had to turn around and drive right back to Seattle last night to work today. He and Christa and my nephew will make the trip down to Oregon tomorrow morning. (Thanks Cor for bringing me over--I know it was an extra long day!)
It is a beautiful, sunny morning here. The ever-present Ellensburg gale is rustling only slightly this morning, gently swaying the trees outside the window. Mojito, the Stanleys' big grey and white kitty, has jumped up into my lap and is fighting for my affection. Ella, one of two dogs, is also nuzzling in for some love. Konia (dog #2), is still a little unsure of me, and is content to just keep to her own affairs.
Barb took me on a tour of Ellensburg last night to see how much things have changed in the short time since I've been gone.
Lots of new businesses I see--ever-changing.
An unbelievable number of housing developments.
A brand new Student Union and Rec Center on Campus.
Many businesses now closed downtown.
They closed down my favorite D&M Coffee spot (Though only for leasing reasons, the company is still alive and thriving!)
I CAN'T WAIT to get my cup of D&M this morning after my parents arrive. Nothing compares!
After spending some time catching up with Barb last night, I snuggled in with a book, and shortly fell asleep. This morning I woke up at about 6am, and spent the morning lying in bed with my book and just thinking about Saturdays race.
I feel really good. I feel well prepared and that I planned my time well. Today and tomorrow are crucial for resting. I'm glad we arrive in Sunriver today so I can check out the course and relax in the house and enjoy the beautiful weather and time with my family.
Last Saturday was my final 8 miler. I had a full day planned, so I got up and hit Alki early--8am. Felt physically and mentally strong. Spent part of the day at the Fremont Solstice, then went to a baby shower in the afternoon.
Sunday and Monday were both rest days. I did an easy 3.5 mile run Tuesday. Rested yesterday, and will do an easy 1-2 mile at some point today--probably consisting mostly of walking. No running tomorrow.
26.2 miles on Saturday.
I've been spending some time mentally rehearsing the race. Thinking about ways of getting myself through some rough spots--should they arise. Again, I feel really well prepared. The one thing I'm concerned a bit about is the weather. Forecast says 90 as the high that day. BUT, the race starts at 7:30, so I should be finishing around the time it will really start getting hot. And, I'll just have to slow down if the weather is hot....and that is okay! The important thing is to be smart, pace myself, and just finish!
Today slight carb loading begins, and will kick up tomorrow--along with increased fluid intake. 6-8oz. every hour--alternating between gatorade and water. Small meals about every 1.5 hours consisting mostly of carbs--avoiding high fat/ high protein/ high sodium foods. Essentially I'll be eating a lot of cereal and powerbars--foods that are easy to digest and will load up my glycogen stores!
I'll be thinking of all of you throughout the next couple of days. I most certainly could not have met this challenge without the incredible support I've received from everyone! Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart! I can't think of a single person that has not been supportive--all of you have allowed me to succeed!
Happy Trails!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Taper Madness
A WEEK AND A HALF UNTIL RACE DAY!!!!!!!!
Holy smokes--I can barely believe it. In my last post I said that it had been about 6 months of training, but after looking at a calendar, it's really been about 9 months in the works.
Last week was slightly tough. I felt really tired all week long, but I got all the miles in. Saturday was a 12 miler. It was hot. I couldn't find my sports watch to help me with my pacing. I think the heat, coupled with a bit of a faster pace than I should've been running, made me lose steam for the last couple of miles. I finished, but not strong.
I thought I might not enjoy the taper period since it meant that I'd have to cut back mileage and food intake, but it has been a really nice change. My daily runs have been shorter, and I'm finding how much my speed has improved with these shorter workouts. I'm also reminded of how good it feels to run short and "fast", and how my body is loving these quick cardio bursts! I thought it might be hard to cut back on the food, too. But, again, it's been a nice change to shift focus a bit. It has been a bit hard to adjust to eating less--but only psychologically, and I welcome the challenge!
Monday was an easy 5 miles. Off Tuesday. Wednesday was a 4 mile tempo run, and today was a 3-mile w/hills. I worked out at the Gym the last two mornings. I think I will eventually get back to those early morning workouts. I miss them. It's tougher for me to find the energy at the end of the day to get it in. Tomorrow is a rest day, then 8 miles Saturday morning!
Next week will be just a couple of days of short runs. Then Wednesday night I leave for Ellensburg where I will stay with my friend Stacy's parents--Barb and Frank Stanley! (Thanks Guys!) My Mom and Ben will pick me up there and we'll head to SunRiver, OR Thursday morning. We have a house rented for 4 days. Cory, m
Holy smokes--I can barely believe it. In my last post I said that it had been about 6 months of training, but after looking at a calendar, it's really been about 9 months in the works.
Last week was slightly tough. I felt really tired all week long, but I got all the miles in. Saturday was a 12 miler. It was hot. I couldn't find my sports watch to help me with my pacing. I think the heat, coupled with a bit of a faster pace than I should've been running, made me lose steam for the last couple of miles. I finished, but not strong.
I thought I might not enjoy the taper period since it meant that I'd have to cut back mileage and food intake, but it has been a really nice change. My daily runs have been shorter, and I'm finding how much my speed has improved with these shorter workouts. I'm also reminded of how good it feels to run short and "fast", and how my body is loving these quick cardio bursts! I thought it might be hard to cut back on the food, too. But, again, it's been a nice change to shift focus a bit. It has been a bit hard to adjust to eating less--but only psychologically, and I welcome the challenge!
Monday was an easy 5 miles. Off Tuesday. Wednesday was a 4 mile tempo run, and today was a 3-mile w/hills. I worked out at the Gym the last two mornings. I think I will eventually get back to those early morning workouts. I miss them. It's tougher for me to find the energy at the end of the day to get it in. Tomorrow is a rest day, then 8 miles Saturday morning!
Next week will be just a couple of days of short runs. Then Wednesday night I leave for Ellensburg where I will stay with my friend Stacy's parents--Barb and Frank Stanley! (Thanks Guys!) My Mom and Ben will pick me up there and we'll head to SunRiver, OR Thursday morning. We have a house rented for 4 days. Cory, m
Monday, June 9, 2008
The Final Countdown
Cory found some old pictures while cleaning out our spare-music-office-guest room today. Some of them were pictures of him as a teenager--including a classmate of his that I was MADLY in love with as a pimply-faced, permed 12 year old girl. Sean Pegram was his name. Oy Vey...the memories. Too funny.
He also found a stack of pictures from his 10 year high school reunion we attended 3 Summers ago. It was astonishing to see the "old" me. The pictures were taken about 5 months before we joined Weight Watchers. I had begun to do a few things on my own to get my health under control--so had dropped maybe 10-20 pounds at that point. But not enough to make a huge difference. That would come in the next 2 years.
Looking at the pictures, I think it has finally sunk in my own brain that I am not the"old" me. She's a distant cousin--you can see the resemblance, but it's not me. She's definitely not the person I always felt I was. I feel like my mind is finally catching up with my body. It's a VERY strange thing to lose 125 pounds. (yes, folks.....125. It's not an exaggeration.) More than the physical changes, there has been (and continues to be) many mental changes to conquer and adjust to. In a way, I feel like I've had to completely re-learn who I am. I KNOW how very cliche' that sounds--but honestly, the best way I can describe an overall feeling is that I've had to rediscover who I am.
When I began to really get serious about exercise, the thought of running never even crossed my mind. It was a struggle to walk a 3.5 mph pace for more than 30 minutes. As I shed some pounds and was able to do more and running came into the picture--I never thought that I would ever run more than a few minutes--or ever have the desire to go any further. As I began training for my first 5k, I remember struggling to hold a 12 min. mile and wondering how in the heck anyone could run faster or further??? But many things kept me motivated and striving to go a little longer and a little harder.
Thinking back to beginning the marathon training, it seems impossible it was more than 6 months ago that I decided to take this on. I can't believe the progress I've made--how far I'm able to run and the pace I'm able to keep. It has been (and continues to be) a VERY interesting ride to say the least. Always learning something new. Always readjusting my thinking. Setting and Facing new goals/challenges, no matter now big or small--in every run.
I'm thrilled to be on the beginning of my taper. I'm anticipating missing the intensity that I've been training at, but I know I have to begin reserving my energy to be well rested and prepared for the "race". I know I'm going to have to start cutting back a bit on my food intake while I'm running less. It's good practice though--a continuation of better habits.
So for tapering they say the first week of your taper, you should reduce your total weekly mileage to 75% of your last big week. I ran about 41 miles the previous week, so I did a total of 31 this past week. I had closer to 4 weeks of taper than the usual 3 built in to my program. So This week I will reduce by another 15 - 20%. Mostly, I will be eliminating my Thursday run. I will end up doing about 25 miles this week.
I had an excellent 14 mile run yesterday. I tried a little something different with my pacing early on in the run, and I think it really helped for me to have a little extra kick of energy towards the end. There were a couple of runners ahead of me for a good portion of my run yesterday that I tried to keep pace with. It was good motivation. They were just enough faster than me that I had to really stay on my toes. I finished in 2 hrs;16 min; 04 seconds. That's a 9:43 per mile pace. If I can run that pace for 14 miles, I should be able to maintain the 10:35 pace I want to hold for the full marathon. A reminder though that my overall goal is to just finish the darn thing. My secondary goal is to finish in 4:30-4:40.
So this week will probably be 5 miles easy Tuesday, 5 miles/tempo run Wednesday, Thursday off, 3 miles easy Friday, 12 mile long-run Saturday. (I am doing the long run Saturday rather than Sunday this week because of Father's Day travels).
Okay, I've blabbed enough. Stay tuned.
He also found a stack of pictures from his 10 year high school reunion we attended 3 Summers ago. It was astonishing to see the "old" me. The pictures were taken about 5 months before we joined Weight Watchers. I had begun to do a few things on my own to get my health under control--so had dropped maybe 10-20 pounds at that point. But not enough to make a huge difference. That would come in the next 2 years.
Looking at the pictures, I think it has finally sunk in my own brain that I am not the"old" me. She's a distant cousin--you can see the resemblance, but it's not me. She's definitely not the person I always felt I was. I feel like my mind is finally catching up with my body. It's a VERY strange thing to lose 125 pounds. (yes, folks.....125. It's not an exaggeration.) More than the physical changes, there has been (and continues to be) many mental changes to conquer and adjust to. In a way, I feel like I've had to completely re-learn who I am. I KNOW how very cliche' that sounds--but honestly, the best way I can describe an overall feeling is that I've had to rediscover who I am.
When I began to really get serious about exercise, the thought of running never even crossed my mind. It was a struggle to walk a 3.5 mph pace for more than 30 minutes. As I shed some pounds and was able to do more and running came into the picture--I never thought that I would ever run more than a few minutes--or ever have the desire to go any further. As I began training for my first 5k, I remember struggling to hold a 12 min. mile and wondering how in the heck anyone could run faster or further??? But many things kept me motivated and striving to go a little longer and a little harder.
Thinking back to beginning the marathon training, it seems impossible it was more than 6 months ago that I decided to take this on. I can't believe the progress I've made--how far I'm able to run and the pace I'm able to keep. It has been (and continues to be) a VERY interesting ride to say the least. Always learning something new. Always readjusting my thinking. Setting and Facing new goals/challenges, no matter now big or small--in every run.
I'm thrilled to be on the beginning of my taper. I'm anticipating missing the intensity that I've been training at, but I know I have to begin reserving my energy to be well rested and prepared for the "race". I know I'm going to have to start cutting back a bit on my food intake while I'm running less. It's good practice though--a continuation of better habits.
So for tapering they say the first week of your taper, you should reduce your total weekly mileage to 75% of your last big week. I ran about 41 miles the previous week, so I did a total of 31 this past week. I had closer to 4 weeks of taper than the usual 3 built in to my program. So This week I will reduce by another 15 - 20%. Mostly, I will be eliminating my Thursday run. I will end up doing about 25 miles this week.
I had an excellent 14 mile run yesterday. I tried a little something different with my pacing early on in the run, and I think it really helped for me to have a little extra kick of energy towards the end. There were a couple of runners ahead of me for a good portion of my run yesterday that I tried to keep pace with. It was good motivation. They were just enough faster than me that I had to really stay on my toes. I finished in 2 hrs;16 min; 04 seconds. That's a 9:43 per mile pace. If I can run that pace for 14 miles, I should be able to maintain the 10:35 pace I want to hold for the full marathon. A reminder though that my overall goal is to just finish the darn thing. My secondary goal is to finish in 4:30-4:40.
So this week will probably be 5 miles easy Tuesday, 5 miles/tempo run Wednesday, Thursday off, 3 miles easy Friday, 12 mile long-run Saturday. (I am doing the long run Saturday rather than Sunday this week because of Father's Day travels).
Okay, I've blabbed enough. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
TWENTY point FIVE-SEVEN (to be exact)
Date: Sunday June 1, 2008
20.57 miles completed.
It's just over a 10 mile loop from our apartment, down to the East side of Alki, West through Alki, around the West side of Beach drive and then up Fauntleroy Way back home. I did 2 loops.
I purposely took it extra slow (just to ease up on my hip a bit and concentrate on pacing, and to save energy for the actual 26.2)
It was a good day!
I needed a little motivation to get me moving before I started. I've been training for so "long" now (6-ish months), that I think I'm starting to get a little bored. Mostly, this drizzly, grey weather is REALLY eating at me. I just really notice how my mood changes when the some comes 'round!
So, I asked Cory to help "pump me up" for the run. He gave me a great pep talk! And I decided to make it a little fun. I took a sharpie, and on the back of my singlet wrote:
"I'm running 20 miles right now
First Marathon June 29th, SunRiver, OR
Motivation"
It felt a little narcisistic, but it's the ONLY time I've ever done anything like that. I was hoping I'd get some encouragement from passers-by, but either they didn't even notice, or they just ignored me. Cory snapped a picture. I'll post it soon. Anywho--at least it got me moving! Also, cory promised me encouraging euphamisms at each water stop. And he delivered. Examples of his captivating knowledge:
"If your world turns upside down, squat, squat, squat your way to the top"
"When the wicker chair breaks, reach for the bean bag of hope"
"A wise man once said, DUH....but a wiser man said, NO DUH"
It helped give me something to focus on--and was entertaining to say the least.
I have been paying really close attention to how/when I'm fueling my body and my fluid intake over the last week. And, I'll continue this through the marathon. I want to be sure I'm doing everything I can to be well-prepared. Now is the time to focus.
Sunday's 20-miler went well. NO stomach problems, and I think I found the best foods to prep the day before. Also, I decided to try those "orange slices" gummy candies to use to fuel during the race rather than any gels or power bars. Eureka! The consistancy was perfect, and NO stomach issues. Hopefully I've found the right combo! As long as I eat a powerbar or something a few hours before I run, I don't need to start fueling during the run until about 80 minutes in. I usually eat a small piece of candy/powerbar about every mile starting around mile 8. I'm thinking I might need to start fueling a little earlier than that since I seem to really hit the wall towards the end--though that may be impossible to avoid with the length of the run.
Things I encountered along the way:
Huge mass of Sunday divers at Alki--much more than usual
STRONG winds West bound on Alki Drive
A very loud, arguing couple near the Alki Beach House
Some sort of mariachi band performing and videotaping scantily-clad ladies near New York Alki.
Lots of bicycle carriages stuffed with people (they rent them near the beach house)
The entrails of a dead bird--yuck! I almost stepped on it!
Still road/sewer construction going on East of the beach house--still smells!
There are lots of houses for sale along Fauntleroy Way.
Running up the long hill of Lincoln park way has become much easier.
Running a mile downhill starting my second loop was just as hard as going up Lincoln Park Way.
West seattle bridge to Beach Drive seemed to pass really quickly!
Group of teenage boys w/guitars and tambourines singing modest mouse songs.
Cute place on Beach Dr.--retail space, still empty. Bad location for a business.
My energy dropping at mile 17--worrying about running 26.2
Fighting those negative mental thoughts, and winning!
Idiot drivers
Finishing!
I start tapering this week. At this point, mostly my long run just decreases. My daily runs stay about the same. I did 6 miles Tuesday, cross-trained on the eliptical last night (1 hour), and will do 7 easy miles this evening, then 4 easy miles tomorrow. Rest Saturday. 14 miles Sunday.
I haven't had enough sleep this week, but I am just really trying to pay attention to my body. If I need an extra rest day, I'll take one. So far so good, though.
20.57 miles completed.
It's just over a 10 mile loop from our apartment, down to the East side of Alki, West through Alki, around the West side of Beach drive and then up Fauntleroy Way back home. I did 2 loops.
I purposely took it extra slow (just to ease up on my hip a bit and concentrate on pacing, and to save energy for the actual 26.2)
It was a good day!
I needed a little motivation to get me moving before I started. I've been training for so "long" now (6-ish months), that I think I'm starting to get a little bored. Mostly, this drizzly, grey weather is REALLY eating at me. I just really notice how my mood changes when the some comes 'round!
So, I asked Cory to help "pump me up" for the run. He gave me a great pep talk! And I decided to make it a little fun. I took a sharpie, and on the back of my singlet wrote:
"I'm running 20 miles right now
First Marathon June 29th, SunRiver, OR
Motivation"
It felt a little narcisistic, but it's the ONLY time I've ever done anything like that. I was hoping I'd get some encouragement from passers-by, but either they didn't even notice, or they just ignored me. Cory snapped a picture. I'll post it soon. Anywho--at least it got me moving! Also, cory promised me encouraging euphamisms at each water stop. And he delivered. Examples of his captivating knowledge:
"If your world turns upside down, squat, squat, squat your way to the top"
"When the wicker chair breaks, reach for the bean bag of hope"
"A wise man once said, DUH....but a wiser man said, NO DUH"
It helped give me something to focus on--and was entertaining to say the least.
I have been paying really close attention to how/when I'm fueling my body and my fluid intake over the last week. And, I'll continue this through the marathon. I want to be sure I'm doing everything I can to be well-prepared. Now is the time to focus.
Sunday's 20-miler went well. NO stomach problems, and I think I found the best foods to prep the day before. Also, I decided to try those "orange slices" gummy candies to use to fuel during the race rather than any gels or power bars. Eureka! The consistancy was perfect, and NO stomach issues. Hopefully I've found the right combo! As long as I eat a powerbar or something a few hours before I run, I don't need to start fueling during the run until about 80 minutes in. I usually eat a small piece of candy/powerbar about every mile starting around mile 8. I'm thinking I might need to start fueling a little earlier than that since I seem to really hit the wall towards the end--though that may be impossible to avoid with the length of the run.
Things I encountered along the way:
Huge mass of Sunday divers at Alki--much more than usual
STRONG winds West bound on Alki Drive
A very loud, arguing couple near the Alki Beach House
Some sort of mariachi band performing and videotaping scantily-clad ladies near New York Alki.
Lots of bicycle carriages stuffed with people (they rent them near the beach house)
The entrails of a dead bird--yuck! I almost stepped on it!
Still road/sewer construction going on East of the beach house--still smells!
There are lots of houses for sale along Fauntleroy Way.
Running up the long hill of Lincoln park way has become much easier.
Running a mile downhill starting my second loop was just as hard as going up Lincoln Park Way.
West seattle bridge to Beach Drive seemed to pass really quickly!
Group of teenage boys w/guitars and tambourines singing modest mouse songs.
Cute place on Beach Dr.--retail space, still empty. Bad location for a business.
My energy dropping at mile 17--worrying about running 26.2
Fighting those negative mental thoughts, and winning!
Idiot drivers
Finishing!
I start tapering this week. At this point, mostly my long run just decreases. My daily runs stay about the same. I did 6 miles Tuesday, cross-trained on the eliptical last night (1 hour), and will do 7 easy miles this evening, then 4 easy miles tomorrow. Rest Saturday. 14 miles Sunday.
I haven't had enough sleep this week, but I am just really trying to pay attention to my body. If I need an extra rest day, I'll take one. So far so good, though.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Ouch....that was a rough one!
Oy Vey! Last Sunday's run was TERRIBLE! (I started to write this blog entry on 5/30--this is referring to my long run on May 24th)
I was soooooo incredibly grumpy when I started out, and usually, once I get moving, those feelings quickly dissapear.
Not so much the case this time.
I muddled through about 9 miles of running, and ended up walking another 4.5. My hip was giving me some trouble again, I had terrible stomach issues, and I just didn't seem to have the energy that I needed to get through. I've definitely been slacking on my hip stretching/ strengthening exercises.
So--I chalked it up to a bad week: not enough attention to my hip, not enough attention to hydration, not enough sleep, and a little PMS thrown in the mix. I plodded through it though, and at least got some decent mileage in--though probably not quality mileage.
I have begun paying more attention to my hip--doing the exercises the physical therapist gave me and also I'm trying to pay more attention to the speed I'm running. I got a little gung-ho last week on my daily runs and started too fast a couple of times. It was time to step back and take a look at some minor adjustments that needed to be made.
I reread some info from Jeff Galloway and Hal Higdon, to make sure I'm on track. And I've been touching base with some friends who have been long time runners! Thanks Carol! Thanks Aaron! Sometimes I know I tend to get a little overly zealous and need to just take a step back and focus.
4 weeks to the marathon! I can hardly believe it! My final 20 miler is coming up this weekend. I'm a little nervous after last week's disaster, but I am also confident that I've been training properly and preparing. We'll see how it goes. I'll keep you posted.
I was soooooo incredibly grumpy when I started out, and usually, once I get moving, those feelings quickly dissapear.
Not so much the case this time.
I muddled through about 9 miles of running, and ended up walking another 4.5. My hip was giving me some trouble again, I had terrible stomach issues, and I just didn't seem to have the energy that I needed to get through. I've definitely been slacking on my hip stretching/ strengthening exercises.
So--I chalked it up to a bad week: not enough attention to my hip, not enough attention to hydration, not enough sleep, and a little PMS thrown in the mix. I plodded through it though, and at least got some decent mileage in--though probably not quality mileage.
I have begun paying more attention to my hip--doing the exercises the physical therapist gave me and also I'm trying to pay more attention to the speed I'm running. I got a little gung-ho last week on my daily runs and started too fast a couple of times. It was time to step back and take a look at some minor adjustments that needed to be made.
I reread some info from Jeff Galloway and Hal Higdon, to make sure I'm on track. And I've been touching base with some friends who have been long time runners! Thanks Carol! Thanks Aaron! Sometimes I know I tend to get a little overly zealous and need to just take a step back and focus.
4 weeks to the marathon! I can hardly believe it! My final 20 miler is coming up this weekend. I'm a little nervous after last week's disaster, but I am also confident that I've been training properly and preparing. We'll see how it goes. I'll keep you posted.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Recovery Week
Firstly, I am ECSTATIC to tell you that Cory's grandma is doing quite well. We're all taking it day by day. She's an amazing gal, that's for sure!
Thank goodness for those recovery weeks!
It was a nice, easy week of workouts. I threw in a couple of long walks--I forgot how much I love a long stroll--especially when the weather is sunny and warm! There's something very calming about it.
Had an excellent 8 mile run Sunday evening--that was the hardest workout of the week. The sun had disappeared behind the clouds, but the temperature was perfect! I started with my long sleeves on, and quickly had to shed them! Alki is so beautiful!!!!! Though as the weather turns to Summer, I like being down there with the crowds less and less. It sometimes reminds me of the atmosphere down Wenatchee Ave during Fri/Sat night of the Apple Blossom Festival! Argh! There's lots of "hey baby, stop running and come to our BBQ. Yeah...ya know ya wanna".
Riiiiiiiiiight.
Today marks the start of another intense training week. 6 miles tonight, 7 tomorrow, and 5 on Friday. Rest Saturday. 15 on Sunday. The following week's long run will be my 2nd 20-miler. Then after that, the taper weeks begin leading up to the marathon!
I can't believe the marathon is 6 weeks away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm getting really excited--it still seems a bit unreal!
I posted a link to an article on the Runner's World website about the best foods for runners! It's a good read. (Though I think these foods could apply to non-runners just as well!) There's also tons of other great posts right now.
Enjoy! More to come soon!
Thank goodness for those recovery weeks!
It was a nice, easy week of workouts. I threw in a couple of long walks--I forgot how much I love a long stroll--especially when the weather is sunny and warm! There's something very calming about it.
Had an excellent 8 mile run Sunday evening--that was the hardest workout of the week. The sun had disappeared behind the clouds, but the temperature was perfect! I started with my long sleeves on, and quickly had to shed them! Alki is so beautiful!!!!! Though as the weather turns to Summer, I like being down there with the crowds less and less. It sometimes reminds me of the atmosphere down Wenatchee Ave during Fri/Sat night of the Apple Blossom Festival! Argh! There's lots of "hey baby, stop running and come to our BBQ. Yeah...ya know ya wanna".
Riiiiiiiiiight.
Today marks the start of another intense training week. 6 miles tonight, 7 tomorrow, and 5 on Friday. Rest Saturday. 15 on Sunday. The following week's long run will be my 2nd 20-miler. Then after that, the taper weeks begin leading up to the marathon!
I can't believe the marathon is 6 weeks away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm getting really excited--it still seems a bit unreal!
I posted a link to an article on the Runner's World website about the best foods for runners! It's a good read. (Though I think these foods could apply to non-runners just as well!) There's also tons of other great posts right now.
Enjoy! More to come soon!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Wenatchee Loop Trail 20 MILES!!!!
I ran TWENTY miles on Sunday.
My legs, lungs, and heart carried me through!
Mostly--my MIND carried me through.
20 miles of paved trail winding along the Columbia River along the West side of Wenatchee.
I ran from the South end Foot Bridge, North to the Odebashen Bridge (5 miles) and back, twice. The weather was good.
Windy in spots.
Though I had to fight the wind resistance some, the temperature was perfect.
Mentally I stayed very focused--I guess occupied is the better descriptor.
I was able to keep thoughts focused on things other than how far I had to go!
I find that if I can do that I am better prepared for the length of time I'll be out there!
There were a couple of lonely stretches--particularly once I would reach Confluence Park. Running from Confluence to the Odebashen Bridge was very desserted both times I passed through. With the sound of the wind rustling in the trees, and the desserted path ahead, it was kind of eerie and desolate feeling. I was happy when I made the loop back to Confluence where Cory and his Mom (Josie) were waiting for my water stop!
My legs (quads) started to hurt around mile 18--though I don't want them to hurt--my threshold is building. They used to bother me much earlier. And it's less intense now, too.
The last half mile was the most difficult. I think I hit what people describe as "the wall", where my glycogen stores were mostly depleted.
I just had to keep telling myself "One foot in front of the other. One foot in front of the other".
I ran the entire way this time.
I finished in 3:33:02 (10:39/mile avg)
I had a wonderful post-workout meal at my Mom and Step-dad's place. It was the perfect recovery meal. All kinds of roasted peppers, tortillas, bean and corn salad, cucumber/radish salsa, fresh fruit. It was an excellent Mother's Day meal. Josie and my Grandpa Bowman joined Cory, my Mom, Ben, and I. Did I mention the Rhubarb cobbler? Did I mention Ben is an amazing cook? Did I mention how much I eat every time I go home? :-)
I was pretty pooped the rest of the day. I fought off taking a nap, but slept like a baby Sunday night.
This week is a recovery/ taper week.
The last couple of days have been difficult. Cory and I found ourselves in Wenatchee again Tuesday and Wednesday (yesterday) due to his Grandma Beuna's failing health. I will post more later. Please keep the Calhoun family in your thoughts as they are going through a difficult time.
My legs, lungs, and heart carried me through!
Mostly--my MIND carried me through.
20 miles of paved trail winding along the Columbia River along the West side of Wenatchee.
I ran from the South end Foot Bridge, North to the Odebashen Bridge (5 miles) and back, twice. The weather was good.
Windy in spots.
Though I had to fight the wind resistance some, the temperature was perfect.
Mentally I stayed very focused--I guess occupied is the better descriptor.
I was able to keep thoughts focused on things other than how far I had to go!
I find that if I can do that I am better prepared for the length of time I'll be out there!
There were a couple of lonely stretches--particularly once I would reach Confluence Park. Running from Confluence to the Odebashen Bridge was very desserted both times I passed through. With the sound of the wind rustling in the trees, and the desserted path ahead, it was kind of eerie and desolate feeling. I was happy when I made the loop back to Confluence where Cory and his Mom (Josie) were waiting for my water stop!
My legs (quads) started to hurt around mile 18--though I don't want them to hurt--my threshold is building. They used to bother me much earlier. And it's less intense now, too.
The last half mile was the most difficult. I think I hit what people describe as "the wall", where my glycogen stores were mostly depleted.
I just had to keep telling myself "One foot in front of the other. One foot in front of the other".
I ran the entire way this time.
I finished in 3:33:02 (10:39/mile avg)
I had a wonderful post-workout meal at my Mom and Step-dad's place. It was the perfect recovery meal. All kinds of roasted peppers, tortillas, bean and corn salad, cucumber/radish salsa, fresh fruit. It was an excellent Mother's Day meal. Josie and my Grandpa Bowman joined Cory, my Mom, Ben, and I. Did I mention the Rhubarb cobbler? Did I mention Ben is an amazing cook? Did I mention how much I eat every time I go home? :-)
I was pretty pooped the rest of the day. I fought off taking a nap, but slept like a baby Sunday night.
This week is a recovery/ taper week.
The last couple of days have been difficult. Cory and I found ourselves in Wenatchee again Tuesday and Wednesday (yesterday) due to his Grandma Beuna's failing health. I will post more later. Please keep the Calhoun family in your thoughts as they are going through a difficult time.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Euphoria
Sunday May 4th, 2008: 18 mile run
Duration: 3 hours, 11 min, 21 sec. (10:37 per mile)
Beautiful Sunshine; 65 degrees; nice breeze
The usual crowd of Sunday divers at Seacrest Park
The Water Taxi is back in service
3-block row of fragrant pink-blossomed trees along Harbor Ave.
Puppies everywhere
Loads of people strolling along Elliot Bay
Beach Volleyball!
Beach front BBQ's
The tantalizing aromas wafting from beach-front restaurants
People-watching residents of Alki Beach Way
Encounters with friendly runners
The smell of Puget Sound
Disgusting Power Bar Energy Gel--will not be trying that again!
Seeing Cory--about every 2 miles
Father teaching his daughter to ride w/out training wheels
Pungent, nose-wrinkling sewage
Reaching the half way point
Running the second half faster than the first
Passing a mile's length of backed up traffic along Harbor Ave.
Finishing with aching quads, but with energy to spare
Strong legs
Strong lungs
Strong heart
All working together...pumping...turning.....breathing
One foot in front of the other
One mile at a time
Refueling over an amazing dinner with an old friend
3 glasses of wine
jam-session with Michael
Sweet, sweet sleep!
Duration: 3 hours, 11 min, 21 sec. (10:37 per mile)
Beautiful Sunshine; 65 degrees; nice breeze
The usual crowd of Sunday divers at Seacrest Park
The Water Taxi is back in service
3-block row of fragrant pink-blossomed trees along Harbor Ave.
Puppies everywhere
Loads of people strolling along Elliot Bay
Beach Volleyball!
Beach front BBQ's
The tantalizing aromas wafting from beach-front restaurants
People-watching residents of Alki Beach Way
Encounters with friendly runners
The smell of Puget Sound
Disgusting Power Bar Energy Gel--will not be trying that again!
Seeing Cory--about every 2 miles
Father teaching his daughter to ride w/out training wheels
Pungent, nose-wrinkling sewage
Reaching the half way point
Running the second half faster than the first
Passing a mile's length of backed up traffic along Harbor Ave.
Finishing with aching quads, but with energy to spare
Strong legs
Strong lungs
Strong heart
All working together...pumping...turning.....breathing
One foot in front of the other
One mile at a time
Refueling over an amazing dinner with an old friend
3 glasses of wine
jam-session with Michael
Sweet, sweet sleep!
Friday, May 2, 2008
1 Hour Lunches/ Weekday Runs
Started my new job this week! I love having an hour for lunch! So far so good--just in that transitional stage right now and soaking in tons of information!
Didn't run on Tuesday--I got my workout in helping a friend clean out her apartment during a move! Wednesday was my first day of work--my new schedule is 8 am to 5 pm--and since I'm taking the bus now, it'd mean having to get up at 4:30 am to make it to work on time and keep up with the morning workouts, so I'm probably going to change back to evenings--we'll see. I might do both.
Wednesday I made it to the gym around 8 pm--did an hour on the treadmill--easy pace, then 20 min. tempo run, then 20 min easy pace.
Thursday (yesterday) was 70 minutes. I did a little over 7 miles. I ran from my place, South on Fauntleroy Way SW down to Beach Drive--curving around to head back North along the waterm then East on Alki. It was BEAUTIFUL yesterday--perfect running weather!
Tonight will be an easy 4-5 mile run--not sure if I'll hit the streets or the gym. Cory and I have a big weekend coming up so we're staying in tonight!
Saturday is a rest day--though if the weather is nice I'll probably get a good walk in.
Sunday is 18 miles. This run is bound to be better than that 1st 18 miler I did! (knock on wood).
Keep your fingers crossed for good weather!
Didn't run on Tuesday--I got my workout in helping a friend clean out her apartment during a move! Wednesday was my first day of work--my new schedule is 8 am to 5 pm--and since I'm taking the bus now, it'd mean having to get up at 4:30 am to make it to work on time and keep up with the morning workouts, so I'm probably going to change back to evenings--we'll see. I might do both.
Wednesday I made it to the gym around 8 pm--did an hour on the treadmill--easy pace, then 20 min. tempo run, then 20 min easy pace.
Thursday (yesterday) was 70 minutes. I did a little over 7 miles. I ran from my place, South on Fauntleroy Way SW down to Beach Drive--curving around to head back North along the waterm then East on Alki. It was BEAUTIFUL yesterday--perfect running weather!
Tonight will be an easy 4-5 mile run--not sure if I'll hit the streets or the gym. Cory and I have a big weekend coming up so we're staying in tonight!
Saturday is a rest day--though if the weather is nice I'll probably get a good walk in.
Sunday is 18 miles. This run is bound to be better than that 1st 18 miler I did! (knock on wood).
Keep your fingers crossed for good weather!
Monday, April 28, 2008
5k PR and 17 miles of Farmland!
First of all--I got the job offer that I wanted! I am moving into the corporate world for awhile--I accepted a job offer with Tommy Bahama. I am the new HR Assistant in their corporate office in downtown Seattle. It's going to be a big change, but one I'm looking forward to. I start on Wednesday!
I ran the Miles For Memories 5k race in Bellingham over the weekend. I set a PR (personal record) of 27:02--that's a pace of 8:42 per mile. This is about a 10 minute improvement over the first race I ran a year ago! I'm very happy with my improvement. I finished 9th out of the women, and 31st overall--there were 150 runners total. It was a perfect morning for running--sun was out and the air was crisp. It's also a nice course to run.
My stepbrother Kable, and his son, Spencer, also participated. Spencer is 6 yrs. old. He ran the entire first half--walked most of the 2nd, and ran the last quarter mile or so across the finish line. Then he was off to play soccer in the afternoon! I see a track career in his future! He was sure to tell his dad that if he could get a better night's sleep and if the race might be later in the afternoon next time, he was sure he could beat everyone!
Spent part of the afternoon visiting with my stepbrother's family, then had lunch with a friend in Fairhaven at the Colophon Cafe'. YUM! Then I headed down to Mt. Vernon to my sister's place for the rest of the weekend. Had a great visit, toured the tulips, hung out with my nephew.
Yesterday I did my long run in Mt. Vernon. I did 17 miles--winding through town, then west into the farmland, then east again--making my way back to my sister's house. It was a great run--I had fun touring the area. The weather was good, too--overcast, but warm and an occasional breeze felt good after several miles! I felt strong, and kept a good, steady pace. I finished in just under 3 hours--keeping a pace of 10:31. Next Sunday is 18 miles, and then my first 20 miler the following week.
We had lunch at the Skagit River Brewery with my Dad and Stepmom, Glory. I was starving--pretty good food, and good company!
Taking the immodium before my runs now has been a lifesaver! It works wonders.
We booked a house to stay in at Sunriver for the marathon weekend. It will be nice to have a private place with our own kitchen and hot tub, and access to the resort's ammenities! I'm looking forward to it!
Today is a rest day--I've been feeling pretty groggy all morning, but my legs feel great! Tomorrow will be a cross training and weight lifting day.
Off for a cup of coffee and some scrabble!
I ran the Miles For Memories 5k race in Bellingham over the weekend. I set a PR (personal record) of 27:02--that's a pace of 8:42 per mile. This is about a 10 minute improvement over the first race I ran a year ago! I'm very happy with my improvement. I finished 9th out of the women, and 31st overall--there were 150 runners total. It was a perfect morning for running--sun was out and the air was crisp. It's also a nice course to run.
My stepbrother Kable, and his son, Spencer, also participated. Spencer is 6 yrs. old. He ran the entire first half--walked most of the 2nd, and ran the last quarter mile or so across the finish line. Then he was off to play soccer in the afternoon! I see a track career in his future! He was sure to tell his dad that if he could get a better night's sleep and if the race might be later in the afternoon next time, he was sure he could beat everyone!
Spent part of the afternoon visiting with my stepbrother's family, then had lunch with a friend in Fairhaven at the Colophon Cafe'. YUM! Then I headed down to Mt. Vernon to my sister's place for the rest of the weekend. Had a great visit, toured the tulips, hung out with my nephew.
Yesterday I did my long run in Mt. Vernon. I did 17 miles--winding through town, then west into the farmland, then east again--making my way back to my sister's house. It was a great run--I had fun touring the area. The weather was good, too--overcast, but warm and an occasional breeze felt good after several miles! I felt strong, and kept a good, steady pace. I finished in just under 3 hours--keeping a pace of 10:31. Next Sunday is 18 miles, and then my first 20 miler the following week.
We had lunch at the Skagit River Brewery with my Dad and Stepmom, Glory. I was starving--pretty good food, and good company!
Taking the immodium before my runs now has been a lifesaver! It works wonders.
We booked a house to stay in at Sunriver for the marathon weekend. It will be nice to have a private place with our own kitchen and hot tub, and access to the resort's ammenities! I'm looking forward to it!
Today is a rest day--I've been feeling pretty groggy all morning, but my legs feel great! Tomorrow will be a cross training and weight lifting day.
Off for a cup of coffee and some scrabble!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Red Rover, Red Rover, Send a Job Offer Right Over...
I've been interviewing for jobs like CRAZY the last couple of months. I feel a bit like I've been through the ringer, but each time I get a rejection letter, I feel like I'm just one step closer to the right fit for me.
I'm kind of tired of the rejection letters, but in a way it's turned out that some of the jobs I've been passed over for, have turned out to be less of a dissapointment than I thought--with the exception of one--but now I'm waiting to hear final decisions from two different companies--and I have a feeling that they both are pretty interested. It will be interesting to see how it plays out. One is definitely more up my alley--but the other would be much more of a challenge. Both have their strenghts. Both have their weaknesses.
At the same time, I've kind of enjoyed being unemployed--but it also sometimes leaves me feeling like "what the heck do I do with myself today?" Don't get me wrong--there's plenty to do and I've kept myself busy, but I do miss the human interaction!
I spent the afternoon with my best friend, Andrea, and her two boys. They have FINALLY made the move to the Seattle area. A big transition for them, but one that I think they will be happy they've made. I'm so happy to have them close by, too. Her boys are so adorable, and have grown so fast. It had been almost a full year since I last saw them all. TOO LONG! I'm going to see them again tomorrow--and I made promises of a trip to the park!
I've found myself much more relaxed these days--after our trip to Oahu, and breaking away from Essential. I'm sleeping better, too! It's been a nice break. I do look forward to work again and starting something new, though.
Monday was a rest day as far as running goes. I did a little bit of walking, but nothing much. Yesterday I did 6 miles--hitting the streets around our apartment. It's exactly .6 mile from our apartment, South down Fauntleroy down to Juneau Street--so I ran back and forth between the two. The weather was great yesterday afternoon! Perfect. Not cold. Not hot.
I timed myself doing a 5k and made it just under 27 minutes. That is under a 9 min. mile average! I did 5k pace, then ran 3 miles at a slower pace. I'm running a 5k race this coming Saturday--the "Miles for Memories" 5k up in Bellingham. It's the very first race I ever participated in last year, so it's kind of a special event for me. Last year I ran it in about 36 minutes--about 12 min./mile. I'm excited to see what my official time will be. I'm hoping to make this an annual event for myself--a reminder of the work I've done, and a goal to keep in mind each year and to keep me focused on my health!
Kable (my stepbro) is going to participate, too. He did it last year. So did Cory, but he will be off in Toronto this weekend. Kable beat both of us last year--without ANY training whatsoever. Not this year though--I'm going to blow him out of the water! :-) Though....to be fair....he has shin splints and recently had surgery, so it may not be a fair competition.
This evening will be a cross training workout at the gym--probably the eliptical and/or the stair stepper, and a bit of weight training. Tomorrow I'll do an 8 mile run at easy pace. Friday will be a rest day, then the 5k Saturday, and 16 miles on Sunday in Mt. Vernon with the help of my wonderful seeeester!
Tomorrow is Cory's bro's b-day (Joel), so we'll be heading up to see him in Everett for dinner, and then head to his place to watch LOST!
Off to pick up the Mr. from work! Keep your fingers crossed on these job apps!
Peace Out Homes
I'm kind of tired of the rejection letters, but in a way it's turned out that some of the jobs I've been passed over for, have turned out to be less of a dissapointment than I thought--with the exception of one--but now I'm waiting to hear final decisions from two different companies--and I have a feeling that they both are pretty interested. It will be interesting to see how it plays out. One is definitely more up my alley--but the other would be much more of a challenge. Both have their strenghts. Both have their weaknesses.
At the same time, I've kind of enjoyed being unemployed--but it also sometimes leaves me feeling like "what the heck do I do with myself today?" Don't get me wrong--there's plenty to do and I've kept myself busy, but I do miss the human interaction!
I spent the afternoon with my best friend, Andrea, and her two boys. They have FINALLY made the move to the Seattle area. A big transition for them, but one that I think they will be happy they've made. I'm so happy to have them close by, too. Her boys are so adorable, and have grown so fast. It had been almost a full year since I last saw them all. TOO LONG! I'm going to see them again tomorrow--and I made promises of a trip to the park!
I've found myself much more relaxed these days--after our trip to Oahu, and breaking away from Essential. I'm sleeping better, too! It's been a nice break. I do look forward to work again and starting something new, though.
Monday was a rest day as far as running goes. I did a little bit of walking, but nothing much. Yesterday I did 6 miles--hitting the streets around our apartment. It's exactly .6 mile from our apartment, South down Fauntleroy down to Juneau Street--so I ran back and forth between the two. The weather was great yesterday afternoon! Perfect. Not cold. Not hot.
I timed myself doing a 5k and made it just under 27 minutes. That is under a 9 min. mile average! I did 5k pace, then ran 3 miles at a slower pace. I'm running a 5k race this coming Saturday--the "Miles for Memories" 5k up in Bellingham. It's the very first race I ever participated in last year, so it's kind of a special event for me. Last year I ran it in about 36 minutes--about 12 min./mile. I'm excited to see what my official time will be. I'm hoping to make this an annual event for myself--a reminder of the work I've done, and a goal to keep in mind each year and to keep me focused on my health!
Kable (my stepbro) is going to participate, too. He did it last year. So did Cory, but he will be off in Toronto this weekend. Kable beat both of us last year--without ANY training whatsoever. Not this year though--I'm going to blow him out of the water! :-) Though....to be fair....he has shin splints and recently had surgery, so it may not be a fair competition.
This evening will be a cross training workout at the gym--probably the eliptical and/or the stair stepper, and a bit of weight training. Tomorrow I'll do an 8 mile run at easy pace. Friday will be a rest day, then the 5k Saturday, and 16 miles on Sunday in Mt. Vernon with the help of my wonderful seeeester!
Tomorrow is Cory's bro's b-day (Joel), so we'll be heading up to see him in Everett for dinner, and then head to his place to watch LOST!
Off to pick up the Mr. from work! Keep your fingers crossed on these job apps!
Peace Out Homes
Monday, April 21, 2008
Hawaii vs. Seattle
Again, nearly a month has passed since I've posted. A lot has changed in the last several weeks--leaving me with a bit more open time (though I have plenty of things to get done), but hopefully I can pay a little more attention to updating this site!
I left my job at the bakery--my last day with Essential was April 4th. It's kind of strange--it's a good thing, but I do miss it some, too! I gave my notice in January, so when the time finally came to clear out my desk, it seemed a little surreal. I'm definitely on the hunt for employment. I've had quite a few interviews, but no offers yet. Though I have a 2nd interview with a marine transport company this week--and a first interview with Tommy Bahama, too. Both positions are in Human Resources. It's an exciting time for me--new beginnings!
Cory and I spent the last week in Hawaii--Oahu specifically. It was FANTASTIC! It was a much needed vacation--hard to come back to WINTER weather.......in April. It's almost MAY for God's sake! We had so much fun exploring the island, eating good food, drinking fancy drinks, and digging our feet in the warm sand. Thoughts of moving to a warmer climate someday were solidified during this trip. Someday.
I adjusted my running schedule so that our time in Hawaii was a recovery week. Running in Hawaii was incredible. I did one morning on the treadmill in our hotel because I got started late enough that it was a little too hot for me outside. But I took advantage of those 70 degree early mornings for sure! I can't tell you how wonderful it felt. I pretty much kept to the same route: From our hotel (Aqua Palms and Spa), up Ala Moana Blvd, Right on Kalakaua Avenue for about 2 miles down through the fancy resorts, past Waikiki beaches, all the way down to the end of Kapiolani Park (near the base of Diamond Head), then turned around and went back to the hotel. The route is about 5 miles total. I did two 5 milers and a 10 miler using this route. The temperature was perfect for early morning running--not too warm, a nice breeze coming from the North--lots of water stops along the way, so no need to carry anything. It was ideal. It was probably close to what running in Sunriver, OR might feel like in June--though a bit more humid.
Then there's Seattle. 30/40 degree weather. Rain. Wind. Snow..........SNOW....in late April??? I hate to complain, because I just had a fantastic vacation in the tropics. But I'm sorry--I am so tired of being cold. It's uncomfortable--and makes the training much more difficult (more planning ahead--layering, what to carry, do I bring my hat? My gloves?) Take yesterday for example--it was snowing in West Seattle around noon. Then the sun came out and the skies were clear. I started my run a little after 3 pm with bright, clear skies. It was cold and crisp outside, but okay to wear short pants and a long sleeve shirt. An hour into my run the wind picked up and the clouds started rolling in. Soon my hands started to turn red from the cold, and then they started to go a little numb--they felt like pins and needles. I did get the full 14 miles in though--I was miserable the last 20 minutes when the rain started to fall.
Whine, whine, whine, whine, whine!
Whaaaaaaaaaa!
Okay. I think I got it out of my system. Thanks for putting up with me!
So--I've officially registered for the Pacific Crest Marathon! No turning back now!
I've had to make a few tweaks to my schedule, but for the most part I'm right on track. I have a 16 miler next weekend, 18 the next, and then my first 20 miler the following. I'll be up in Mt. Vernon next Sunday for the 16 miler. My family is going to help me out--that will be very cool! Cory will be in Toronto for the film festival next weekend--very cool! Wish I could be there to support him, but I'm so glad he is able to go!
My hip seems to be doing great! The stretches and strength training seem to really be helping--pretty much not an issue anymore--but let's hope it stays that way! Besides the tormenting weather yesterday, I felt GREAT during my run. I had an 18 miler about 3 weeks ago that was TERRIBLE. I had major stomach issues during the entire run --I finished it, but it was a struggle. I think I've found a good solution for those issues. Recommended in several books, and in the latest issue of RUNNER'S WORLD: Pop a couple of immodium AD's pre-run.....it certainly worked yesterday, so I think I'll keep up with that regimen. (Again, sorry to be so blatant about it, but it's certainly a major issue I've had to deal with during my training).
This post feels a little disjointed, and I feel like I'm forgetting something--however I've already written a novel, so it's time to sign off for now. I will try to be better about posting regularly again--especially since we're down to the last 2 months before the race! Time should allow it now!
Health and Happiness to all!
I left my job at the bakery--my last day with Essential was April 4th. It's kind of strange--it's a good thing, but I do miss it some, too! I gave my notice in January, so when the time finally came to clear out my desk, it seemed a little surreal. I'm definitely on the hunt for employment. I've had quite a few interviews, but no offers yet. Though I have a 2nd interview with a marine transport company this week--and a first interview with Tommy Bahama, too. Both positions are in Human Resources. It's an exciting time for me--new beginnings!
Cory and I spent the last week in Hawaii--Oahu specifically. It was FANTASTIC! It was a much needed vacation--hard to come back to WINTER weather.......in April. It's almost MAY for God's sake! We had so much fun exploring the island, eating good food, drinking fancy drinks, and digging our feet in the warm sand. Thoughts of moving to a warmer climate someday were solidified during this trip. Someday.
I adjusted my running schedule so that our time in Hawaii was a recovery week. Running in Hawaii was incredible. I did one morning on the treadmill in our hotel because I got started late enough that it was a little too hot for me outside. But I took advantage of those 70 degree early mornings for sure! I can't tell you how wonderful it felt. I pretty much kept to the same route: From our hotel (Aqua Palms and Spa), up Ala Moana Blvd, Right on Kalakaua Avenue for about 2 miles down through the fancy resorts, past Waikiki beaches, all the way down to the end of Kapiolani Park (near the base of Diamond Head), then turned around and went back to the hotel. The route is about 5 miles total. I did two 5 milers and a 10 miler using this route. The temperature was perfect for early morning running--not too warm, a nice breeze coming from the North--lots of water stops along the way, so no need to carry anything. It was ideal. It was probably close to what running in Sunriver, OR might feel like in June--though a bit more humid.
Then there's Seattle. 30/40 degree weather. Rain. Wind. Snow..........SNOW....in late April??? I hate to complain, because I just had a fantastic vacation in the tropics. But I'm sorry--I am so tired of being cold. It's uncomfortable--and makes the training much more difficult (more planning ahead--layering, what to carry, do I bring my hat? My gloves?) Take yesterday for example--it was snowing in West Seattle around noon. Then the sun came out and the skies were clear. I started my run a little after 3 pm with bright, clear skies. It was cold and crisp outside, but okay to wear short pants and a long sleeve shirt. An hour into my run the wind picked up and the clouds started rolling in. Soon my hands started to turn red from the cold, and then they started to go a little numb--they felt like pins and needles. I did get the full 14 miles in though--I was miserable the last 20 minutes when the rain started to fall.
Whine, whine, whine, whine, whine!
Whaaaaaaaaaa!
Okay. I think I got it out of my system. Thanks for putting up with me!
So--I've officially registered for the Pacific Crest Marathon! No turning back now!
I've had to make a few tweaks to my schedule, but for the most part I'm right on track. I have a 16 miler next weekend, 18 the next, and then my first 20 miler the following. I'll be up in Mt. Vernon next Sunday for the 16 miler. My family is going to help me out--that will be very cool! Cory will be in Toronto for the film festival next weekend--very cool! Wish I could be there to support him, but I'm so glad he is able to go!
My hip seems to be doing great! The stretches and strength training seem to really be helping--pretty much not an issue anymore--but let's hope it stays that way! Besides the tormenting weather yesterday, I felt GREAT during my run. I had an 18 miler about 3 weeks ago that was TERRIBLE. I had major stomach issues during the entire run --I finished it, but it was a struggle. I think I've found a good solution for those issues. Recommended in several books, and in the latest issue of RUNNER'S WORLD: Pop a couple of immodium AD's pre-run.....it certainly worked yesterday, so I think I'll keep up with that regimen. (Again, sorry to be so blatant about it, but it's certainly a major issue I've had to deal with during my training).
This post feels a little disjointed, and I feel like I'm forgetting something--however I've already written a novel, so it's time to sign off for now. I will try to be better about posting regularly again--especially since we're down to the last 2 months before the race! Time should allow it now!
Health and Happiness to all!
Friday, March 28, 2008
They Say It's Your Birthday.....duh na na na na
I turned 30 today! Wahoo!
It's been a fantastic day. Easy workout this morning--4 miles, a little weight lifting. Came home to 2 birthday cards nicely set by the front door (from Cory). Had my free cup of Joe and pastry for my b-day at the bakery. Got a lovely bouquet of flowers at work from Cory. And have received many nice b-day wishes from family and friends throughout the day.
Tonight we're celebrating at the Spitfire--a bar in Belltown where my friend Drew DJ's. We'll have drinks and dancing. Cory has prepared a little b-day video that apparently is going to broadcast on the big screens at the bar tonight. I'm dying of anticipation! Before the Spitfire, my sister and bro-in-law are coming up to have dinner with us! I feel so lucky today!
It's been MORE than a month since I've posted anything. I wish it hadn't been so long, but life has been a little crazy....even chaotic at times. Only because I'm entering into a transition period (leaving my job at the bakery to focus on musical pursuits...finally), and it has taken so much time and energy to prepare for my departure. STRESSFUL. But, I'm now starting to breathe a little easier. Next Friday is my last day.
The running continues to go well--I had a bit of a set back in my schedule as my body decided to take a little hiatus from wellness. I got terribly sick for a week, and then it lingered as a cold for 2 more weeks. I haven't been sick like that in a very long time. Very frustrating! I had to rearrange my running schedule--taking almost a full week off. My long run suffered the following week, and though I was frustrated, I had to remind myself that I was still recooperating from illness!
The weekend I was scheduled to do 14 miles for the first time, I was only able to complete 10. We were in Wenatchee that weekend, and I ran the loop trail along the river. It was a BEAUTIFUL day. The temp topped at 66 that day. By mile 10 I was pooped. I did get a little frustrated at being unable to do 14, but Cory and my family helped to calm me down and put things back into perspective.
Sucess! Last weekend I WAS able to do the 14 miles. I chose a path that started at Alki, went around the west side of the sound around to Fauntleroy, turning around at our apartment--then back to Alki. It was drizzling the entire way, but it felt fantastic. I was cold the last couple miles, but my adrenaline kicked in and it didn't matter. Cory and I celebrated with lunch at the Matador in West Seattle.
This coming weekend I will be doing 16 miles. 18 the next weekend, then we're in Hawaii the following week. I'll probably still do 8-10 miles on my long run day while in Hawaii. I am soooo looking forward to running in Hawaii!
Did I mention we're going to HAWAII!!!! This is a MUCH needed vacation. I can't wait to sink my toes in the sand, wade in the 70 degree Pacific, hike around diamond head, sip my cocktails on the beech! I need to unwind! We're going to have a blast!
The day to day runs are going well--I haven't been getting a very good amount of sleep, so I've been feeling a little more tired than before, but I'm really trying to pay attention to my body more than ever now, and am slowing down when I need to!
The first 5k (and first race ever) I did in Bellingham about a year ago, is coming up again in a few weeks. I'm planning on running it and need to e-mail Kable (my stepbrother) to see if he wants to do it--he ran it with Cory and I last year! We had a blast. I want to make it an annual event and "commemoration", if you will, of my health and first race! It's the "Miles for Memories" race put on by the Alzheimer's Association of Washington, so it benefits a great cause!
Okay...time to wrap things up at work so I can get out and enjoy the rest of the day! I should be able to keep up with the postings more regularly now, and promise more training info soon!
Aloha!
It's been a fantastic day. Easy workout this morning--4 miles, a little weight lifting. Came home to 2 birthday cards nicely set by the front door (from Cory). Had my free cup of Joe and pastry for my b-day at the bakery. Got a lovely bouquet of flowers at work from Cory. And have received many nice b-day wishes from family and friends throughout the day.
Tonight we're celebrating at the Spitfire--a bar in Belltown where my friend Drew DJ's. We'll have drinks and dancing. Cory has prepared a little b-day video that apparently is going to broadcast on the big screens at the bar tonight. I'm dying of anticipation! Before the Spitfire, my sister and bro-in-law are coming up to have dinner with us! I feel so lucky today!
It's been MORE than a month since I've posted anything. I wish it hadn't been so long, but life has been a little crazy....even chaotic at times. Only because I'm entering into a transition period (leaving my job at the bakery to focus on musical pursuits...finally), and it has taken so much time and energy to prepare for my departure. STRESSFUL. But, I'm now starting to breathe a little easier. Next Friday is my last day.
The running continues to go well--I had a bit of a set back in my schedule as my body decided to take a little hiatus from wellness. I got terribly sick for a week, and then it lingered as a cold for 2 more weeks. I haven't been sick like that in a very long time. Very frustrating! I had to rearrange my running schedule--taking almost a full week off. My long run suffered the following week, and though I was frustrated, I had to remind myself that I was still recooperating from illness!
The weekend I was scheduled to do 14 miles for the first time, I was only able to complete 10. We were in Wenatchee that weekend, and I ran the loop trail along the river. It was a BEAUTIFUL day. The temp topped at 66 that day. By mile 10 I was pooped. I did get a little frustrated at being unable to do 14, but Cory and my family helped to calm me down and put things back into perspective.
Sucess! Last weekend I WAS able to do the 14 miles. I chose a path that started at Alki, went around the west side of the sound around to Fauntleroy, turning around at our apartment--then back to Alki. It was drizzling the entire way, but it felt fantastic. I was cold the last couple miles, but my adrenaline kicked in and it didn't matter. Cory and I celebrated with lunch at the Matador in West Seattle.
This coming weekend I will be doing 16 miles. 18 the next weekend, then we're in Hawaii the following week. I'll probably still do 8-10 miles on my long run day while in Hawaii. I am soooo looking forward to running in Hawaii!
Did I mention we're going to HAWAII!!!! This is a MUCH needed vacation. I can't wait to sink my toes in the sand, wade in the 70 degree Pacific, hike around diamond head, sip my cocktails on the beech! I need to unwind! We're going to have a blast!
The day to day runs are going well--I haven't been getting a very good amount of sleep, so I've been feeling a little more tired than before, but I'm really trying to pay attention to my body more than ever now, and am slowing down when I need to!
The first 5k (and first race ever) I did in Bellingham about a year ago, is coming up again in a few weeks. I'm planning on running it and need to e-mail Kable (my stepbrother) to see if he wants to do it--he ran it with Cory and I last year! We had a blast. I want to make it an annual event and "commemoration", if you will, of my health and first race! It's the "Miles for Memories" race put on by the Alzheimer's Association of Washington, so it benefits a great cause!
Okay...time to wrap things up at work so I can get out and enjoy the rest of the day! I should be able to keep up with the postings more regularly now, and promise more training info soon!
Aloha!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Ease On Down, Ease On Down the Road
Finally. Finally, I'm posting.
I can't believe I already complete the 18 week mileage build-up schedule. That seems crazy to me. And now, the 18 week countdown begins to the Marathon! Just 4 1/2 months to race day. That may seem like a lot of time, but it doesn't feel like it to me!
I made a few more adjustments to my training schedule--made it easier to read, and adjusted the mileage a bit. I will post some definitions soon so that when you see the term "Tempo" or "Strides", you'll know what that means. A lot of you probably already do! I'll try to get it done today.
I still need to make some adjustments to my schedule the week Cory and I will be in Hawaii. That Sunday is supposed to be my first 20 mile run. While I definitely plan on doing some running in Honolulu, I will NOT being doing a 20 mile run on vacation. No hobbling around Oahu for me! It should be easy to make the adjustment--I just need to really sit down and focus on the schedule.
As for the minor hip injury I mentioned in my last post--here's the deal. I have been noticing some pain on the inside of my left hip towards the end of my long runs. It's not excruciating, but more than the pain, it feels like it needs to pop, or is slightly out of joint. I had to stop running on my last 10 mile run around 9.5 miles because of it. I walked the rest of the way. But since this was happening at mile 10, I was concerned about making it to 20 miles and so decided I should go get checked out at the UW Sports Medicine Clinic. So I did just that.
After examining me, and taking x-rays, the doc didn't see anything he was heavily concerned about. He said he's pretty sure I probably have a little tendonitis in my joint, which would account for the "popping" feeling and the pain/stiffness. He did say there's a slim chance of it being the beginning of a stress fracture, but that I'd need an MRI to indicate that. The regular X-ray doesn't pick it up. However, he was certain that with a little physical therapy, I'd notice an improvement. So, the treatment is this:
1) When the problems starts to occur, I need to stop running. I can walk or do any movement that does not aggravate it. I can run as long as I can go without the problem popping up.
2) 4-6 weeks of physical therapy. This will include some stretches and movements that will help loosen the muscles around the joint. It'll also include some core strength training. This will help me run with good form for a longer period of time. The core muscles will fatigue less quickly and that will mean less stress on my lower body by giving it stronger upper body support.
My first session is next Tuesday, the 26th.
If I don't notice an improvement with the Physical Therapy sessions after 6-ish weeks, then I'll go back for an MRI.
Though I had to stop running a bit early on my last long run, it was one of the best runs I've had yet. I felt very strong and confident. I will admit that the last few Sundays, I've started out with kind of a bad attitude--not wanting to run. But I've always tried to approach it with the attitude of "just start and feel it out and see how far you can go". Almost every run, once I get started, that's all it takes is for my body to warm up, and then I'm good to go.
5 miles yesterday morning. 8 miles this morning on horrible sleep last night. I was tired and groggy when I got to the gym. But I made it through just fine. It felt "effortless". Two mantras I have picked up and recite to myself during runs when I'm starting to feel tired, or those negative thoughts pop into my head that tell me to stop:
"Float like a butterfly. Float like a butterfly. Float like a butterfly".
"Ease on down, Ease on down the road. Ease on down, Ease on down the road".
Might seem silly, but it works for me! Recognize the phrases? (Of course you do).
Another 10 mile long run this Sunday. Next Sunday it jumps to 12!
Once again I have to say THANKS to everyone who has been incredibly supportive--and continues to be! And double thanks to Cory for being my water boy and cheering section on my long runs!
'Till we meet again!
I can't believe I already complete the 18 week mileage build-up schedule. That seems crazy to me. And now, the 18 week countdown begins to the Marathon! Just 4 1/2 months to race day. That may seem like a lot of time, but it doesn't feel like it to me!
I made a few more adjustments to my training schedule--made it easier to read, and adjusted the mileage a bit. I will post some definitions soon so that when you see the term "Tempo" or "Strides", you'll know what that means. A lot of you probably already do! I'll try to get it done today.
I still need to make some adjustments to my schedule the week Cory and I will be in Hawaii. That Sunday is supposed to be my first 20 mile run. While I definitely plan on doing some running in Honolulu, I will NOT being doing a 20 mile run on vacation. No hobbling around Oahu for me! It should be easy to make the adjustment--I just need to really sit down and focus on the schedule.
As for the minor hip injury I mentioned in my last post--here's the deal. I have been noticing some pain on the inside of my left hip towards the end of my long runs. It's not excruciating, but more than the pain, it feels like it needs to pop, or is slightly out of joint. I had to stop running on my last 10 mile run around 9.5 miles because of it. I walked the rest of the way. But since this was happening at mile 10, I was concerned about making it to 20 miles and so decided I should go get checked out at the UW Sports Medicine Clinic. So I did just that.
After examining me, and taking x-rays, the doc didn't see anything he was heavily concerned about. He said he's pretty sure I probably have a little tendonitis in my joint, which would account for the "popping" feeling and the pain/stiffness. He did say there's a slim chance of it being the beginning of a stress fracture, but that I'd need an MRI to indicate that. The regular X-ray doesn't pick it up. However, he was certain that with a little physical therapy, I'd notice an improvement. So, the treatment is this:
1) When the problems starts to occur, I need to stop running. I can walk or do any movement that does not aggravate it. I can run as long as I can go without the problem popping up.
2) 4-6 weeks of physical therapy. This will include some stretches and movements that will help loosen the muscles around the joint. It'll also include some core strength training. This will help me run with good form for a longer period of time. The core muscles will fatigue less quickly and that will mean less stress on my lower body by giving it stronger upper body support.
My first session is next Tuesday, the 26th.
If I don't notice an improvement with the Physical Therapy sessions after 6-ish weeks, then I'll go back for an MRI.
Though I had to stop running a bit early on my last long run, it was one of the best runs I've had yet. I felt very strong and confident. I will admit that the last few Sundays, I've started out with kind of a bad attitude--not wanting to run. But I've always tried to approach it with the attitude of "just start and feel it out and see how far you can go". Almost every run, once I get started, that's all it takes is for my body to warm up, and then I'm good to go.
5 miles yesterday morning. 8 miles this morning on horrible sleep last night. I was tired and groggy when I got to the gym. But I made it through just fine. It felt "effortless". Two mantras I have picked up and recite to myself during runs when I'm starting to feel tired, or those negative thoughts pop into my head that tell me to stop:
"Float like a butterfly. Float like a butterfly. Float like a butterfly".
"Ease on down, Ease on down the road. Ease on down, Ease on down the road".
Might seem silly, but it works for me! Recognize the phrases? (Of course you do).
Another 10 mile long run this Sunday. Next Sunday it jumps to 12!
Once again I have to say THANKS to everyone who has been incredibly supportive--and continues to be! And double thanks to Cory for being my water boy and cheering section on my long runs!
'Till we meet again!
Friday, February 15, 2008
New Training Schedule Posted
It's been awhile since I've posted, and I have a lot to catch up on. More to come soon, I promise. For now, I posted my new training schedule. I'm going to tweak it in a couple of places--particularly the part of the weeks in April that Cory and I will be in Hawaii!
Yep, Hawaii. Honolulu to be exact. 6 days and 6 nights. I....can't.....wait!!!! Especially for the 70/80 degree weather.
I'll post more in the next couple of days...here's some quickbites:
1) 2 successful 10 mile runs!
2) Have had some left hip pain on my long runs. Went to a Sports Med Doc today. Good news--don't have to stop running. Bad(ish) news--I need a bit of physical therapy to treat the injury, and may have to cut back a bit on my mileage. But mostly all is fine. More on that tomorrow.
3) Did I mention I'm going to Hawaii!
Yep, Hawaii. Honolulu to be exact. 6 days and 6 nights. I....can't.....wait!!!! Especially for the 70/80 degree weather.
I'll post more in the next couple of days...here's some quickbites:
1) 2 successful 10 mile runs!
2) Have had some left hip pain on my long runs. Went to a Sports Med Doc today. Good news--don't have to stop running. Bad(ish) news--I need a bit of physical therapy to treat the injury, and may have to cut back a bit on my mileage. But mostly all is fine. More on that tomorrow.
3) Did I mention I'm going to Hawaii!
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Inclement Weather
I was supposed be in Wenatchee this weekend, but because the passes have been closed on and off, we made the decision to stay on this side of the mountains. Bummed about it. But, I guess at least it's giving me time to focus on some things that I need to get done.
The sun is trying to peek through the clouds on this cold February Saturday. I'm feeling a little blah--finding that body image issues are kind of ruling my brain today. It will pass.
Looking forward to a 10 mile run tomorrow morning. It's my first. Workouts over the previous week went well. It was a hard week. Not hard in the sense that it was difficult to do--I just worked really hard and yesterday was feeling the effects. I was exhausted last night.
Tuesday and Wednesday's run were great. (4mi/5mi respectively). Took them at a comfortably hard pace. Thursday (7mi) was intense. I think I probably should've slowed down a bit and taken it easier than I did. By mile 7 I was getting pretty tired and my hip started bothering me some. Ocassionally it feels like it's slightly out of joint. It's not painful, just feels strange. I think I'll ask my doctor to check it out just to be sure all is okay. Yesterday was 6 miles--I did it in the morning on our new treadmill at home (due to time constraints). Didn't seem to interrupt Cory's last hour of sleep too much, and no complaints from the neighbors. I'm impressed with the treadmill's quality for the price we paid!
Cory and I went out for a late dinner last night at Siam Pura down on Alki. They have really good Thai food, and we were happy to find them open again after closing for a few months over the holidays. We went home and I was fast asleep by 11pm on a Friday night.
Tonight we're off to a birthday dinner in Greenwood, then up at 8am for 10 miles at Alki. My goal tomorrow is just to take it slow and easy! Cory is going to help me out tomorrow morning with my water stops! He's a trooper. Then we'll head home, shower up, and head up to see my sister, her husband, and baby Jaxon. I can't wait to see them!
It's supposed to be sunny and in the 40's tomorrow. That would be enthusiastically welcomed!
The sun is trying to peek through the clouds on this cold February Saturday. I'm feeling a little blah--finding that body image issues are kind of ruling my brain today. It will pass.
Looking forward to a 10 mile run tomorrow morning. It's my first. Workouts over the previous week went well. It was a hard week. Not hard in the sense that it was difficult to do--I just worked really hard and yesterday was feeling the effects. I was exhausted last night.
Tuesday and Wednesday's run were great. (4mi/5mi respectively). Took them at a comfortably hard pace. Thursday (7mi) was intense. I think I probably should've slowed down a bit and taken it easier than I did. By mile 7 I was getting pretty tired and my hip started bothering me some. Ocassionally it feels like it's slightly out of joint. It's not painful, just feels strange. I think I'll ask my doctor to check it out just to be sure all is okay. Yesterday was 6 miles--I did it in the morning on our new treadmill at home (due to time constraints). Didn't seem to interrupt Cory's last hour of sleep too much, and no complaints from the neighbors. I'm impressed with the treadmill's quality for the price we paid!
Cory and I went out for a late dinner last night at Siam Pura down on Alki. They have really good Thai food, and we were happy to find them open again after closing for a few months over the holidays. We went home and I was fast asleep by 11pm on a Friday night.
Tonight we're off to a birthday dinner in Greenwood, then up at 8am for 10 miles at Alki. My goal tomorrow is just to take it slow and easy! Cory is going to help me out tomorrow morning with my water stops! He's a trooper. Then we'll head home, shower up, and head up to see my sister, her husband, and baby Jaxon. I can't wait to see them!
It's supposed to be sunny and in the 40's tomorrow. That would be enthusiastically welcomed!
Monday, January 28, 2008
Lost in Seward Park!
Last week was an easy week--or 'taper week', as I've been calling them. A reduction in miles to give my legs a chance to rest up a bit. 4 mile runs, and cross training on non-running days (an additional rest day during these weeks, too). On Thursday, I decided to walk Greenlake--something I haven't done in a long time. I forgot how much I enjoyed that--just people watching and taking in the sights. Even though running outdoors is great, I still take in a lot more when just walking. It was a cold day, but perfect for a brisk walk. There were tons of people out, and I caught the beginning of a beautiful sunset.
I went and saw "Spirit of the Marathon" on Wednesday night. I met up with a couple of co-workers, and met some people from the running group I signed up to join. (I also hit the Sale going on at Express--I couldn't resist, and I haven't spent any money on clothes in quite awhile)! The documentary was showing at Pacific Place--a high end shopping mall right smack in the middle of downtown. About the only thing I can afford in this building is the movie theater!
The documentary was fantastic. It follows the story of two elite runners (Dena Kastor, and I can't remember the male they followed), and about 6 or 7 other people who run for various reasons. I highly reccomend this film for anyone--runner or not. It's fascinating, has some great comic moments, and very inspiring. All of the people followed in the story were training for the Chicago Marathon. It was amazing to watch the progression of all these runners at so many different levels. I am still in awe of these elite runners that hold between a 4 and 5 min/ mile pace for more than 2 hours. As they point out in the film, a standard treadmill's top speed doesn't even reach this pace. Incredible.
Sunday I met up with this group for a run. We ran about 8-ish miles. Most of the runners that showed were male, and quite a bit faster than me. My co-worker, Carol, was very kind to keep me company (she's definitely much faster than I am). There was one female that was about the same pace (as far as I could tell--not sure if she was just taking it easy or not) but she decided to take the shorter route.
We met at Coleman Park and ran along Lake WA down to Seward Park--did a loop through Seward, and then back along Lake WA. I had no idea this park system existed. It is BEAUTIFUL! I will be back for sure. Though Carol and I ended up taking a different path (we missed the path to follow the road around Seward Park), we ended up on some trails that ascend up through the middle of the Park and around. We ended up hitting quite a few hills and doing some unexpected trail running. We finally met up with the road at some point, and then started the trek back. Despite being "lost", I'm glad we found these trails. It'll be a great place to go back to!
I'll be back to join the group. It was really fun. I'm hoping that as the weather gets warmer, more people around the same pace as mine will show up. The other woman that was there that I think was about the same pace is thinking of doing the same marathon as I am in June. It'd be cool to connect with other runners doing this race!
Oh, and on a whim, Cory and I ended up with a brand-spankin'-new treadmill yesterday. Joel, Cory's brother, found this fantastic deal at Fred Meyer up in Everett. It was on sale 60% off of an already marked down ticket. $140 total. You can't beat that. I don't think I'll be able to use it early mornings because of noise, but I'm still so happy to have it, and know it will get good use. Thanks to Joel for spying such a great deal, and ESPECIALLY for helping us get it all set up! He pretty much did most of the work!
This week the mileage begins again....4 mi Tues/ 5 mi Wed/ 7 mi Thur/ 6 mi Fri/ Rest Sat/ 10 mi Sunday/ Rest Mon. I'll be in Wenatchee on Sunday--still trying to figure out how I'm going to work that 10-miler in between all that's going on. I'm going to aim for a very early morning run--we'll see what happens. I'm hoping that by some miracle, the weather will change to 40 degrees and sunny so I can hit the streets. Though, I'm not going to hold my breath.
Off to get some Japanese food!
I went and saw "Spirit of the Marathon" on Wednesday night. I met up with a couple of co-workers, and met some people from the running group I signed up to join. (I also hit the Sale going on at Express--I couldn't resist, and I haven't spent any money on clothes in quite awhile)! The documentary was showing at Pacific Place--a high end shopping mall right smack in the middle of downtown. About the only thing I can afford in this building is the movie theater!
The documentary was fantastic. It follows the story of two elite runners (Dena Kastor, and I can't remember the male they followed), and about 6 or 7 other people who run for various reasons. I highly reccomend this film for anyone--runner or not. It's fascinating, has some great comic moments, and very inspiring. All of the people followed in the story were training for the Chicago Marathon. It was amazing to watch the progression of all these runners at so many different levels. I am still in awe of these elite runners that hold between a 4 and 5 min/ mile pace for more than 2 hours. As they point out in the film, a standard treadmill's top speed doesn't even reach this pace. Incredible.
Sunday I met up with this group for a run. We ran about 8-ish miles. Most of the runners that showed were male, and quite a bit faster than me. My co-worker, Carol, was very kind to keep me company (she's definitely much faster than I am). There was one female that was about the same pace (as far as I could tell--not sure if she was just taking it easy or not) but she decided to take the shorter route.
We met at Coleman Park and ran along Lake WA down to Seward Park--did a loop through Seward, and then back along Lake WA. I had no idea this park system existed. It is BEAUTIFUL! I will be back for sure. Though Carol and I ended up taking a different path (we missed the path to follow the road around Seward Park), we ended up on some trails that ascend up through the middle of the Park and around. We ended up hitting quite a few hills and doing some unexpected trail running. We finally met up with the road at some point, and then started the trek back. Despite being "lost", I'm glad we found these trails. It'll be a great place to go back to!
I'll be back to join the group. It was really fun. I'm hoping that as the weather gets warmer, more people around the same pace as mine will show up. The other woman that was there that I think was about the same pace is thinking of doing the same marathon as I am in June. It'd be cool to connect with other runners doing this race!
Oh, and on a whim, Cory and I ended up with a brand-spankin'-new treadmill yesterday. Joel, Cory's brother, found this fantastic deal at Fred Meyer up in Everett. It was on sale 60% off of an already marked down ticket. $140 total. You can't beat that. I don't think I'll be able to use it early mornings because of noise, but I'm still so happy to have it, and know it will get good use. Thanks to Joel for spying such a great deal, and ESPECIALLY for helping us get it all set up! He pretty much did most of the work!
This week the mileage begins again....4 mi Tues/ 5 mi Wed/ 7 mi Thur/ 6 mi Fri/ Rest Sat/ 10 mi Sunday/ Rest Mon. I'll be in Wenatchee on Sunday--still trying to figure out how I'm going to work that 10-miler in between all that's going on. I'm going to aim for a very early morning run--we'll see what happens. I'm hoping that by some miracle, the weather will change to 40 degrees and sunny so I can hit the streets. Though, I'm not going to hold my breath.
Off to get some Japanese food!
Monday, January 21, 2008
Necessary Roughness....
Whew--yesterday's 9 miler proved to be a somewhat difficult run. Though I actually made a lot of stupid mistakes leading up to the run:
1) Didn't eat enough early in the day
2) Definitely didn't hydrate well the day before or yesterday morning
3) Didn't take water with me on the run
4) Started the run too fast
The sad thing is...I KNOW BETTER!!
I was feeling rushed and just sort of said "Oh well...it's only once--can't do too much harm." Well, lesson learned. I am fine--and nothing happened to me--I just really noticed how quickly I lost momentum. The first half of the run was pretty good--but I really should've started off more slowly and I will never do a long run again without adequate fluids! It was also really windy when I ran East on the trail--it was a bit of a struggle against the wind, but nice on the return path with the wind behind me.
I ditched out on the group run yesterday morning for 2 reasons--1) I woke up late and still felt really groggy and tired and wasn't ready to run yet. 2) It was a brand new course for me, and I realized I had no idea what the availability of bathroom stops would be--this is critical for me. So, I put off the run until about 2pm and took to the path at Alki.
Good things about the run: I finished it--tired, but not exhausted. I did keep an average pace of about 10-min mile. It was BEAUTIFUL out yesterday--very sunny. It was a good reminder that I need to do more running outdoors to work on pacing without the treadmill! I'm also trying to view the difficulty of the run as a good thing--it's just a reminder that preparedness is really important, and that all runners have bad days, and struggling through them is just as much a part of the process as having those days where you feel invincible!
I still can't wait for warmer weather--though sunny, it was COLD.
This week is a taper week. 4 mile runs throughout the week. Thursday night I'm going to see the film "Spirit of the Marathon" with a bunch of other running geeks! Should be fun.
In other news, the Jazz workshop I went to on Saturday was great fun. I'm looking forward to the rest of the workshop. It's 8 weeks long (runs through the beginning of March). I met some really nice people and am feeling less nervous about it all now. I think it will be a great learning experience.
1) Didn't eat enough early in the day
2) Definitely didn't hydrate well the day before or yesterday morning
3) Didn't take water with me on the run
4) Started the run too fast
The sad thing is...I KNOW BETTER!!
I was feeling rushed and just sort of said "Oh well...it's only once--can't do too much harm." Well, lesson learned. I am fine--and nothing happened to me--I just really noticed how quickly I lost momentum. The first half of the run was pretty good--but I really should've started off more slowly and I will never do a long run again without adequate fluids! It was also really windy when I ran East on the trail--it was a bit of a struggle against the wind, but nice on the return path with the wind behind me.
I ditched out on the group run yesterday morning for 2 reasons--1) I woke up late and still felt really groggy and tired and wasn't ready to run yet. 2) It was a brand new course for me, and I realized I had no idea what the availability of bathroom stops would be--this is critical for me. So, I put off the run until about 2pm and took to the path at Alki.
Good things about the run: I finished it--tired, but not exhausted. I did keep an average pace of about 10-min mile. It was BEAUTIFUL out yesterday--very sunny. It was a good reminder that I need to do more running outdoors to work on pacing without the treadmill! I'm also trying to view the difficulty of the run as a good thing--it's just a reminder that preparedness is really important, and that all runners have bad days, and struggling through them is just as much a part of the process as having those days where you feel invincible!
I still can't wait for warmer weather--though sunny, it was COLD.
This week is a taper week. 4 mile runs throughout the week. Thursday night I'm going to see the film "Spirit of the Marathon" with a bunch of other running geeks! Should be fun.
In other news, the Jazz workshop I went to on Saturday was great fun. I'm looking forward to the rest of the workshop. It's 8 weeks long (runs through the beginning of March). I met some really nice people and am feeling less nervous about it all now. I think it will be a great learning experience.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Big Foot is back!
He's back. "Big Foot", as he has been lovingly deemed. The guy at the gym. He's been there the last few mornings--two of which he planted himself on the treadmill right next to me.
STOMP
STOMP
STOMP
STOMP
At least I know he hasn't keeled over....yet!
ANYway.....this week has been good. I managed to get a mild hill workout in, and did some speed work today. Did 5 miles Tues, 5 mi Wed, 7 mi Thur, and 6 miles this morning. I felt a little tired Wednesday but Thursday and this morning I felt fantastic....really strong and felt like I could take the speed up a couple notches.
I never thought I'd be able to keep up with an early morning workout routine, but it turns out I really look forward to it. It's such a nice start to my day.
I signed up for a running group through MeetUp.com. A coworker of mine is a member and I've been looking for a group to run with once or twice a week. My first run with them will be my long run on Sunday (9 miles). They just happen to have scheduled a 9.5 mi run that day, so it works out well--I'll probably just walk the last 1/2 mile.
Next week is a taper week. 4 mi daily runs. Then the following week my long run will be my first 10-miler. I've been looking forward to the "milestone".
This weekend is the weekend to try "new" things. First the running group, but I'm also going to go to this jazz jam session. Most of you know I'm a classically trained singer--though I've sung a bit of jazz and know the style, but this is a first for me. A different coworker of mine is learning the bass and attends this jam session regularly. It's a chance for people wanting to learn more about jazz to get together and play. It should be fun.
In other brief news---I got a call from my sister early this week. It turns out my family is having their own "Get In Shape" Contest. I think there's 9 or 10 people participating. They're each throwing $100 into the pot. My Step-Grandfather (Arnie) will be the stat-keeper. I think it's about a 3 or 4 month long deal. The person who loses the beggest % of their body weight will walk away with $1000. I'm so proud of everyone. I think it's the coolest idea, and such an awesome thing for a family to do together. I even have quite a few people on board to do a 10k with me in October. It's in Astoria, OR. Part of the course is crossing the Astoria-Warrenton bridge (4 mi). It should be a beautiful course!
Rest day tomorrow. 9 miles Sunday. Rest day Monday.
STOMP
STOMP
STOMP
STOMP
At least I know he hasn't keeled over....yet!
ANYway.....this week has been good. I managed to get a mild hill workout in, and did some speed work today. Did 5 miles Tues, 5 mi Wed, 7 mi Thur, and 6 miles this morning. I felt a little tired Wednesday but Thursday and this morning I felt fantastic....really strong and felt like I could take the speed up a couple notches.
I never thought I'd be able to keep up with an early morning workout routine, but it turns out I really look forward to it. It's such a nice start to my day.
I signed up for a running group through MeetUp.com. A coworker of mine is a member and I've been looking for a group to run with once or twice a week. My first run with them will be my long run on Sunday (9 miles). They just happen to have scheduled a 9.5 mi run that day, so it works out well--I'll probably just walk the last 1/2 mile.
Next week is a taper week. 4 mi daily runs. Then the following week my long run will be my first 10-miler. I've been looking forward to the "milestone".
This weekend is the weekend to try "new" things. First the running group, but I'm also going to go to this jazz jam session. Most of you know I'm a classically trained singer--though I've sung a bit of jazz and know the style, but this is a first for me. A different coworker of mine is learning the bass and attends this jam session regularly. It's a chance for people wanting to learn more about jazz to get together and play. It should be fun.
In other brief news---I got a call from my sister early this week. It turns out my family is having their own "Get In Shape" Contest. I think there's 9 or 10 people participating. They're each throwing $100 into the pot. My Step-Grandfather (Arnie) will be the stat-keeper. I think it's about a 3 or 4 month long deal. The person who loses the beggest % of their body weight will walk away with $1000. I'm so proud of everyone. I think it's the coolest idea, and such an awesome thing for a family to do together. I even have quite a few people on board to do a 10k with me in October. It's in Astoria, OR. Part of the course is crossing the Astoria-Warrenton bridge (4 mi). It should be a beautiful course!
Rest day tomorrow. 9 miles Sunday. Rest day Monday.
Monday, January 14, 2008
For the Love of Snagglepuss...Slow Down!
Oops--ticked off a fellow runner at the gym last week. This guy who runs about the same time as I do in the morning likes to run really, really fast. The problem is--he's too fast for his own legs--he can't keep up the pace and is constantly propping himself up against the handrails and stomping against the metal protective barrier at the top of the treadmill--panting, sweating, and looking as if he's about to face-plant against whirling rubber. I kept quiet for about 3 weeks, thinking one of the trainers would eventually say something. I couldn't take it anymore. "Ya might wanna take it down a notch, buddy", just sort of slipped out. Oops.
I haven't seen him at the gym since, but that doesn't mean anything really. He didn't really respond--just gave me a look that pretty much said "Shut up and mind your own business". Fair enough, fair enough.
Running updates: Made it successfully through two 8 mile runs. I had to readjust my schedule a bit through the holidays. I still completed all the mileage, just had to move days around here and there. I finished my first 9 mile long-run yesterday evening. I was planning on doing my first outdoor run in quite awhile, but didn't get the time until late in the day, so the gym it was.
Cory and I took a much needed "mini vacation" to Port Townsend Saturday night. We stayed in a cute little hotel with a fantastic view of th Strait of Juan De Fuca. We wound up with some fantastic pictures--I'll try to post a few here. It was a beautiful, sunny winter day. We tried to head home early enough to get a run in during daylight hours, but as we approached the Hood Canal Bridge (really the only option for getting home with the changes in ferry service recently), it had been closed down for "Police Activity". Turns out there was a 'suspicious backpack' left on the bridge so they closed it off to traffic and called in the bomb squad. No, I'm not kidding. We turned around and went back to Port Townsend for lunch. We never found out what was in the backpack, but I was imagining something silly like a sack full of origami flowers or little plastic figurines.
The last few weeks have been very tiring--lots going on, and things are finally slowing down a bit, so hopefully I'll get a chance to post a little more often. I'm havig a hard time remembering the things I wanted to mention--all in all, the runnig is going well. My legs were aching most of the morning after yesterday's run, but no major pain to report or anything I'm concerned about. I'm getting to the point where the length of my daily runs are about where they will remain throughout the rest of my training. What will continue to increase is the length of my long run. That's a good feeling. It encourages me mentally--I know I can continue with this schedule.
...and speaking of encouraging me mentally--Cory has been so supportive, curious, and helps keep me moving towards my goal. I must give a shout-out for that. My schedule can be a little crazy sometimes. Thanks to everyone who keeps me going!
I have been getting up a tad earlier than I was just to get in the couple extra miles some mornngs, but I am sleeping much better (especially the last week) than I have in a really long time. I am tired by 9pm--in bed no later than 10.
Speaking of...it's 'late'. Almost 9:30 and time to start heading towards home. Cory and I are at Cafe' Ladro catching up on e-mails and reading. We just got back from a book signing/ talk by Anu Garg--the creator of Wordsmith.org. Cory can fill you in on the details--but it was a long awaited meeting for him. Not to mention a really fantastic presentation!
Sleep calls.
I haven't seen him at the gym since, but that doesn't mean anything really. He didn't really respond--just gave me a look that pretty much said "Shut up and mind your own business". Fair enough, fair enough.
Running updates: Made it successfully through two 8 mile runs. I had to readjust my schedule a bit through the holidays. I still completed all the mileage, just had to move days around here and there. I finished my first 9 mile long-run yesterday evening. I was planning on doing my first outdoor run in quite awhile, but didn't get the time until late in the day, so the gym it was.
Cory and I took a much needed "mini vacation" to Port Townsend Saturday night. We stayed in a cute little hotel with a fantastic view of th Strait of Juan De Fuca. We wound up with some fantastic pictures--I'll try to post a few here. It was a beautiful, sunny winter day. We tried to head home early enough to get a run in during daylight hours, but as we approached the Hood Canal Bridge (really the only option for getting home with the changes in ferry service recently), it had been closed down for "Police Activity". Turns out there was a 'suspicious backpack' left on the bridge so they closed it off to traffic and called in the bomb squad. No, I'm not kidding. We turned around and went back to Port Townsend for lunch. We never found out what was in the backpack, but I was imagining something silly like a sack full of origami flowers or little plastic figurines.
The last few weeks have been very tiring--lots going on, and things are finally slowing down a bit, so hopefully I'll get a chance to post a little more often. I'm havig a hard time remembering the things I wanted to mention--all in all, the runnig is going well. My legs were aching most of the morning after yesterday's run, but no major pain to report or anything I'm concerned about. I'm getting to the point where the length of my daily runs are about where they will remain throughout the rest of my training. What will continue to increase is the length of my long run. That's a good feeling. It encourages me mentally--I know I can continue with this schedule.
...and speaking of encouraging me mentally--Cory has been so supportive, curious, and helps keep me moving towards my goal. I must give a shout-out for that. My schedule can be a little crazy sometimes. Thanks to everyone who keeps me going!
I have been getting up a tad earlier than I was just to get in the couple extra miles some mornngs, but I am sleeping much better (especially the last week) than I have in a really long time. I am tired by 9pm--in bed no later than 10.
Speaking of...it's 'late'. Almost 9:30 and time to start heading towards home. Cory and I are at Cafe' Ladro catching up on e-mails and reading. We just got back from a book signing/ talk by Anu Garg--the creator of Wordsmith.org. Cory can fill you in on the details--but it was a long awaited meeting for him. Not to mention a really fantastic presentation!
Sleep calls.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Nutshell
Lots to catch up on, but I'm in a rush....life has been kind of insanely busy from the holidays 'till now--it's finally beginning to slow down a bit! More soon, I promise. In a nutshell--two 8 milers under my belt--getting so my daily runs are varying between 5 and 7 miles--first 9 miler this Sunday. Things are going well--no injuries to complain of. Some slight knee pain after long runs, but disappears quickly.
Signed up to join a running group once or twice a week--really looking forward to that, and hopefully will do a 10k in the next few weeks.
More to follow shortly....
Signed up to join a running group once or twice a week--really looking forward to that, and hopefully will do a 10k in the next few weeks.
More to follow shortly....
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)