So, I had surgery last Monday (5/12) and recovery has gone a little slower than I had anticipated. Most of the pain is now gone, but my stomach has not been happy. I've been limited bland foods because anything else makes my stomach go haywire! Ugh!
I think (I hope) I am turning the corner with that. I took my son out for dinner last night at Texas Roadhouse. It was a fundraiser for a cousin that has Prader-Willi syndrome and Friday is Brady's birthday so I thought "why not?" Looked at the menu and knew I couldn't eat most so I went with the veg plate. Here was my order: salad (no cheese or egg) with honey mustard on the side, fresh veggies, sweet potato (cinnamon butter on side) and Apple sauce. Barely used the dressing or butter and I really do mean that. It was good. Best thing? My belly didn't get upset!
Today, I feel pretty good. I might head out for a short run/walk to see how it goes. First exercise since I ran the Pittsburgh relay on 5/4. That's when I got sick. I'm ready to get back to it. I'm ready to reach for my goals. I'm ready to prepare for the MCM and Dopey challenge. Let's do this!
My favorite running pic!
The Buffalo Creek Half
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Friday, May 16, 2014
Alive and still running...barely!
I've been met with some challenges in the past year or so. I was training for the 2013 Pittsburgh marathon and was doing so well. Hit 20 miles several times but then all was shattered. I injured my IT band and kept running. And it kept getting worse and worse until walking was painful. By the time I saw my PT, as hard as we worked, there was no way I could run the marathon. Devastated! I cried so many tears over that. Training for so hard and not running, watching your friends run it without you...it was hard!
But I worked at getting my IT better and finally was able to run again. I did several 5ks over the summer and even broke 30min on one of them. I'm back! Well, I thought so, but I seemed to lose some motivation. Maybe it was because I didn't have a race I was training for at the time. I don't know.
I was asked to run in the relay of the Pittsburgh marathon on a May 4 of this year. I would be running the 4th leg...6.1 miles total. I didn't train as well as I could have as a month before the race I got sick and ended up with what they thought was the flu and then bronchitis. But I went and vowed to do my best. Race day, my run started great, but then, my stomach was not happy! Now I have never had stomach issues on a race nor have I ever had to use a porta potty during a half, let alone 6 miles. But I had to stop several times. Ugh! The pain was crazy. But I finished. I believe my pace was 11:11 m/m, even with the stops. Happy with that!
Not happy to go to the ER the next day because of pain in my right upper abdomen. To make a long story short, after days of tests, my gall bladder was not functioning the way it should. Surgery was this past Monday to remove it. So now I am recovering from that.
I have MCM and the Dopey challenge to train for. I really could use a break now. I, mentally, am ready to go out there and train. If only my body will give me the green light!
But I worked at getting my IT better and finally was able to run again. I did several 5ks over the summer and even broke 30min on one of them. I'm back! Well, I thought so, but I seemed to lose some motivation. Maybe it was because I didn't have a race I was training for at the time. I don't know.
I was asked to run in the relay of the Pittsburgh marathon on a May 4 of this year. I would be running the 4th leg...6.1 miles total. I didn't train as well as I could have as a month before the race I got sick and ended up with what they thought was the flu and then bronchitis. But I went and vowed to do my best. Race day, my run started great, but then, my stomach was not happy! Now I have never had stomach issues on a race nor have I ever had to use a porta potty during a half, let alone 6 miles. But I had to stop several times. Ugh! The pain was crazy. But I finished. I believe my pace was 11:11 m/m, even with the stops. Happy with that!
Not happy to go to the ER the next day because of pain in my right upper abdomen. To make a long story short, after days of tests, my gall bladder was not functioning the way it should. Surgery was this past Monday to remove it. So now I am recovering from that.
I have MCM and the Dopey challenge to train for. I really could use a break now. I, mentally, am ready to go out there and train. If only my body will give me the green light!
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
The 20 mile run!
Last Thursday, I was scheduled to head out with my friends for a 20 mile run. When we woke up, it was a balmy 8 degrees, so we decided to meet a little later than we usually do just to give it a chance to warm up outside. We decided to meet at 10:30. It did warm up some by the time we met, at 21 degrees and a bit of a breeze.
So, where we do our long runs now is at a park that has a 5 mile loop. That means 4 times around for the 20. UGH! Our first 2 times around were really good. I felt great! Our mission was to go slow on this training run and just make it as our longest run prior was 17 miles. We were following our plan nicely. Each time around, we stopped at the car and filled up our water bottles and grabbed a snack if we needed one. After the second lap, Linda was hurting with her foot and sciatica. Both Marilyn and I told her not too push it. So she left at about mile 12. Marilyn has run 4 other marathons and is pretty fast. Much, much faster than me. But she stayed with me, which was so nice! :)
At mile 15 or so, I stopped to use the restroom and told her I needed to slow down a bit. I knew she had time constraints and told her I was ok, she could go. I'm not a quitter. I would make it no matter what. She left about mile 15.5. What does that mean? I was on my own. Yep...the last 4.5 on my own.
So, I dug deep. Turned my music up, grabbed some animal crackers and headed off. At about mile 17.5, I really hit a wall. I was sore, tired, hungry, but I knew I couldn't quit. I told myself, "You got this! Only 2.5 left! Don't stop!" Gave myself permission to do whatever I needed to make it. I think I stayed pretty strong. When that watch hit 20 miles, I was beside myself. I couldn't believe it! I got into my car and cried. I did it! I made 20 miles. It took me a long time, I know. 3 hours and 55 minutes, but I don't care. It wasn't about the time. It was about the distance. It was about accomplishing something I NEVER thought I could. EVER. It was about finding the strength hidden inside of me. It was about reaching for your goals, making your kids proud, being a superstar in their eyes for a few minutes! I DID IT!
That run convinced me to change my half marathon registration to the full and so I did. No turning back now. On 5/5/13, I WILL be completing a marathon!
So, where we do our long runs now is at a park that has a 5 mile loop. That means 4 times around for the 20. UGH! Our first 2 times around were really good. I felt great! Our mission was to go slow on this training run and just make it as our longest run prior was 17 miles. We were following our plan nicely. Each time around, we stopped at the car and filled up our water bottles and grabbed a snack if we needed one. After the second lap, Linda was hurting with her foot and sciatica. Both Marilyn and I told her not too push it. So she left at about mile 12. Marilyn has run 4 other marathons and is pretty fast. Much, much faster than me. But she stayed with me, which was so nice! :)
At mile 15 or so, I stopped to use the restroom and told her I needed to slow down a bit. I knew she had time constraints and told her I was ok, she could go. I'm not a quitter. I would make it no matter what. She left about mile 15.5. What does that mean? I was on my own. Yep...the last 4.5 on my own.
So, I dug deep. Turned my music up, grabbed some animal crackers and headed off. At about mile 17.5, I really hit a wall. I was sore, tired, hungry, but I knew I couldn't quit. I told myself, "You got this! Only 2.5 left! Don't stop!" Gave myself permission to do whatever I needed to make it. I think I stayed pretty strong. When that watch hit 20 miles, I was beside myself. I couldn't believe it! I got into my car and cried. I did it! I made 20 miles. It took me a long time, I know. 3 hours and 55 minutes, but I don't care. It wasn't about the time. It was about the distance. It was about accomplishing something I NEVER thought I could. EVER. It was about finding the strength hidden inside of me. It was about reaching for your goals, making your kids proud, being a superstar in their eyes for a few minutes! I DID IT!
That run convinced me to change my half marathon registration to the full and so I did. No turning back now. On 5/5/13, I WILL be completing a marathon!
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
New year, new goals!
Happy New Year! YAY...we made it to 2013!
With that, I reflect on my running in 2012 (briefly). I set a goal to run 700 miles...I ran 720! By the way, when I set that, I had no idea nor even a positive thought that I would get there! Run at least one half marathon...I ran 4! Run a sub 30 5K...29:42! FABULOUS! I couldn't have asked for more. Really, I couldn't!
Now 2013 is here and I try to think of ways to top the year I just had. I put a lot of thought into this and here is what I came up with. 1. Run 1000 miles. That is 280 miles more than this year. Holy cow! But I think I could do it with the right mix of determination and support. 2. Run a marathon. Although I have run two 17 mile training runs, they were anything but easy. Although I question if there is any way I can make it, in the back of my head I hear "it's now or never". So now it is! 3. Run a sub 29 5K. This, believe it or not, is the scariest of the 3 for me. My 29:42 pushed me to my breaking point. I am not fast (remember the title of the blog...notsofastmomma?). But if you don't continue to push yourself, you'll get nowhere. I want to get somewhere. That somewhere is sub 29.
I'm very excited and apprehensive about these goals. It's all good. I'll keep you posted! By the way, I ran a mile today (I know JUST a mile?) but nonetheless, I am down to 999 to go! Yippee!
With that, I reflect on my running in 2012 (briefly). I set a goal to run 700 miles...I ran 720! By the way, when I set that, I had no idea nor even a positive thought that I would get there! Run at least one half marathon...I ran 4! Run a sub 30 5K...29:42! FABULOUS! I couldn't have asked for more. Really, I couldn't!
Now 2013 is here and I try to think of ways to top the year I just had. I put a lot of thought into this and here is what I came up with. 1. Run 1000 miles. That is 280 miles more than this year. Holy cow! But I think I could do it with the right mix of determination and support. 2. Run a marathon. Although I have run two 17 mile training runs, they were anything but easy. Although I question if there is any way I can make it, in the back of my head I hear "it's now or never". So now it is! 3. Run a sub 29 5K. This, believe it or not, is the scariest of the 3 for me. My 29:42 pushed me to my breaking point. I am not fast (remember the title of the blog...notsofastmomma?). But if you don't continue to push yourself, you'll get nowhere. I want to get somewhere. That somewhere is sub 29.
I'm very excited and apprehensive about these goals. It's all good. I'll keep you posted! By the way, I ran a mile today (I know JUST a mile?) but nonetheless, I am down to 999 to go! Yippee!
Friday, December 28, 2012
2012 and my running goals
In January 2012, I set 3 running goals for myself. To see if I could actually achieve them and to keep me motivated to run. And guess what? I did them ALL! Who could believe it? NOT ME! I think you set goals to encourage, inspire and motivate yourself to keep going, keep getting better and attaining things you never really thought possible. That is exactly what I did!
Here were my goals:
1. To run at least 1 half marathon. I ran in 4! My first I completed in 2:20:48. I was really happy with that time, as I was hoping for 2:30. The second I completed in 2:28:15. That was a tough one for me as I believe I was struggling with some dehydration issues and starting WAY TOO FAST! The third was 2:23:19. I was hoping for under 2:20, but I loved running in this one! My last was 2:14:38!!! Not only did I break my 2:20 goal, but I did it by over 5 minutes! I was beside myself and was in a zone at this race!
2. To run a sub 30 5K. This I knew would be a tough one as I am not that fast (hence the title of my blog!). As I progressed throughout the year, I could see that I was getting faster. I could break 20 minutes for 2 miles, but not sure I could keep the pace for 3.1. My son, Brady, my husband, Kip and I decided to run in the turkey trot. Brady and I have run races together before. He wanted that sub 30 too! So I layed out my plan with him and off we went. At one point, he went ahead of me. Which was fine. I kept him in view and caught up the last mile. I passed him about 1/2 mile out and told him "let's go! We're almost there!" As we were rounding the corner, I could hear him say "Please let it be under 30, please let it be under 30!" It was then we saw the clock. It was under 30! We finished at 29:42! That was an exciting race! We both pushed ourselves. Unfortunately, Brady maybe a little too much as he felt quite nauseous after that. Poor kid!
3. To run 700 miles. Not exactly sure where I came up with that number, but I knew it was a lot. At least for me. I DID IT!! Phew! I completed it about 2 weeks ago. Time to spare and everything. So excited and thoroughly proud of myself.
So what does 2013 hold for me as far as running? Not sure yet...a marathon maybe, sub 29 5K. I'll have to think on those and get back to you before January 1st. I do know that I want to keep running, I want to encourage my kids to exercise and I want to blog more. What are your goals?
Here were my goals:
1. To run at least 1 half marathon. I ran in 4! My first I completed in 2:20:48. I was really happy with that time, as I was hoping for 2:30. The second I completed in 2:28:15. That was a tough one for me as I believe I was struggling with some dehydration issues and starting WAY TOO FAST! The third was 2:23:19. I was hoping for under 2:20, but I loved running in this one! My last was 2:14:38!!! Not only did I break my 2:20 goal, but I did it by over 5 minutes! I was beside myself and was in a zone at this race!
2. To run a sub 30 5K. This I knew would be a tough one as I am not that fast (hence the title of my blog!). As I progressed throughout the year, I could see that I was getting faster. I could break 20 minutes for 2 miles, but not sure I could keep the pace for 3.1. My son, Brady, my husband, Kip and I decided to run in the turkey trot. Brady and I have run races together before. He wanted that sub 30 too! So I layed out my plan with him and off we went. At one point, he went ahead of me. Which was fine. I kept him in view and caught up the last mile. I passed him about 1/2 mile out and told him "let's go! We're almost there!" As we were rounding the corner, I could hear him say "Please let it be under 30, please let it be under 30!" It was then we saw the clock. It was under 30! We finished at 29:42! That was an exciting race! We both pushed ourselves. Unfortunately, Brady maybe a little too much as he felt quite nauseous after that. Poor kid!
3. To run 700 miles. Not exactly sure where I came up with that number, but I knew it was a lot. At least for me. I DID IT!! Phew! I completed it about 2 weeks ago. Time to spare and everything. So excited and thoroughly proud of myself.
So what does 2013 hold for me as far as running? Not sure yet...a marathon maybe, sub 29 5K. I'll have to think on those and get back to you before January 1st. I do know that I want to keep running, I want to encourage my kids to exercise and I want to blog more. What are your goals?
Saturday, August 4, 2012
My new kicks!
I've always run in the same shoe...Brooks Ghosts. I LOVE THEM! They really know how to treat my feet and feel great. In the year and a half I have been running (and been through several pairs of Brooks), I only got one blister the whole time. So, I really can't complain about them, EXCEPT...I am a neutral runner and Brooks shoes for neutral runners (at least the ones that I have seen) aren't very, well, colorful. And I am a colorful type of person!
So, I went out looking for new kicks. Not because of the colorful aspect, but because my Brooks had over 300 miles on them and my knees were starting to ache after my runs. Not hurt, but ache. A couple people suggested looking into new shoes. I went down to my local running store (Up-N-Running which I LOVE!) and talked to Ed about my knees and he agreed that I should invest in new shoes. Something about the fibers breaking down...blah, blah, blah. All I know is that I heard that I should get new shoes, so that's enough to not feel guilty about telling my husband that I spent over $100 on shoes. He's kind of frugal!
Walked over to the shoes and said that I need something kind of flashy and colorful. Corey set me up nicely. First, I tried some Asics. Bright orange and yellow. Nice! Problem is they kept sliding on the back of my foot when I ran. But I knew a size down would be too tight. Next up, Mizunos. I tried 2 pairs...a purple pair was first. Loved them! They felt great running, very comfortable and fit me well. They next pair was bright orange with one of those air pocket type heels. You know the one I mean. Anyway, I didn't like how it felt when I ran. Although comfortable, the heel bugged me. I knew the purple ones were just what I needed...flashy, colorful, fun and COMFORTABLE!
My new Mizuno Wave Runners and I will be hitting the road in about 30 minutes to begin our relationship. I can't wait! I still have a love for Brooks, I do. Maybe I'll have room for both in my life!
So, I went out looking for new kicks. Not because of the colorful aspect, but because my Brooks had over 300 miles on them and my knees were starting to ache after my runs. Not hurt, but ache. A couple people suggested looking into new shoes. I went down to my local running store (Up-N-Running which I LOVE!) and talked to Ed about my knees and he agreed that I should invest in new shoes. Something about the fibers breaking down...blah, blah, blah. All I know is that I heard that I should get new shoes, so that's enough to not feel guilty about telling my husband that I spent over $100 on shoes. He's kind of frugal!
Walked over to the shoes and said that I need something kind of flashy and colorful. Corey set me up nicely. First, I tried some Asics. Bright orange and yellow. Nice! Problem is they kept sliding on the back of my foot when I ran. But I knew a size down would be too tight. Next up, Mizunos. I tried 2 pairs...a purple pair was first. Loved them! They felt great running, very comfortable and fit me well. They next pair was bright orange with one of those air pocket type heels. You know the one I mean. Anyway, I didn't like how it felt when I ran. Although comfortable, the heel bugged me. I knew the purple ones were just what I needed...flashy, colorful, fun and COMFORTABLE!
My new Mizuno Wave Runners and I will be hitting the road in about 30 minutes to begin our relationship. I can't wait! I still have a love for Brooks, I do. Maybe I'll have room for both in my life!
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Getting back into the distance groove
So, after the Pittsburgh half in May which pretty much defeated me, I didn't know how I would feel about running distance again. It took everything I had to finish that race because of how bad I felt and really contemplated not ever running a half again. Several weeks went by of being out of the groove and not really having a good time on the clock or on fun! But something click recently...maybe it was the Butler Road Race. I don't know. But I realize that I can do it! I can! I am not going to let one race defeat me!
I met a friend on Saturday for a trail run. Linda is a friend of my other running buddies...the ones who inspired me to run, Joanne and Beth. I had never met her (but heard lots about her) until we met on the day I ran my first half. She was running the 8 mile run that day, so we ran the first 8 together. That was in March. I loved running with her. Our paces were pretty comparable and we had some nice conversation. Linda and I had planned on running the Pittsburgh half together, but she was injured and couldn't run. But she's back!
We ran on Saturday. Our plan was to do 5 or 6 miles on the trail. We started out slow, but funny at about 1/2 way to 6 miles, we got into a groove. Our pace picked up and it seemed like we were at ease. I learned a lot about Linda on Saturday and realized even more that we are perfect running partners. It did rain on us almost the entire time, but we didn't care. It actually felt good. And when we reached 6, we decided to keep going and we did 7! It was great! I think we both could've kept going and I look forward to the next time we run.
That 7 miles on Saturday reassured me that I can certainly run another 1/2! I have already signed up for one in October and there will be another one that I am signing up for today that is in September. As far as running Pittsburgh again, well, I have to think about that. If I do, it will be a mental race for me more than a physical one. But I have almost a year to think about it. Until then, bring on the half training! I'm ready!
I met a friend on Saturday for a trail run. Linda is a friend of my other running buddies...the ones who inspired me to run, Joanne and Beth. I had never met her (but heard lots about her) until we met on the day I ran my first half. She was running the 8 mile run that day, so we ran the first 8 together. That was in March. I loved running with her. Our paces were pretty comparable and we had some nice conversation. Linda and I had planned on running the Pittsburgh half together, but she was injured and couldn't run. But she's back!
We ran on Saturday. Our plan was to do 5 or 6 miles on the trail. We started out slow, but funny at about 1/2 way to 6 miles, we got into a groove. Our pace picked up and it seemed like we were at ease. I learned a lot about Linda on Saturday and realized even more that we are perfect running partners. It did rain on us almost the entire time, but we didn't care. It actually felt good. And when we reached 6, we decided to keep going and we did 7! It was great! I think we both could've kept going and I look forward to the next time we run.
That 7 miles on Saturday reassured me that I can certainly run another 1/2! I have already signed up for one in October and there will be another one that I am signing up for today that is in September. As far as running Pittsburgh again, well, I have to think about that. If I do, it will be a mental race for me more than a physical one. But I have almost a year to think about it. Until then, bring on the half training! I'm ready!
Thursday, July 5, 2012
5 mile road race post-race thoughts...
About 2 weeks ago, Brady and I ran in the Butler Road Race. It's a 5 mile race that is held at the end of June. There is also a 2K race, which we have run several times. But this year, I knew I could run the 5 miles and as soon as I mentioned it, Brady said he wanted to run the 5 miles too.
As I talked about in a previous blog, Brady is really athletic. So he didn't need all that much training. He plays sports in nearly every season keeping him in great shape. We did go out running several times together. We made it to just over 4.2 miles on the last long run before the race. Our typical pace was just over a 10:30 mile.
I asked him what his thoughts were on the race. Did he know what his goal was? He said he really just wanted to finish the race and maybe come in under 1 hour. I told him that was fair and I could get him there. We just had to be sure to pace ourselves so we didn't burn out in the end. I bought him some new running shoes and a SPIbelt. He really needed the SPIbelt. His arms are sooooo skinny that an armband for his ipod doesn't stay up. Before we knew it, it was the day of the race.
At the starting line, Kip, Gianna and Nick cheered us on. They were all running the 2K. And we began...running the downhill. That's the best part of the race! At mile 1, we were running about a 9:30/mile. I figured that, as we ran about 1/3 downhill. Mile 2, we had a good 10 min/mile pace going. Mile 3, we were just under 31 min. Somehow, we lost time between mile 3 and 4...not sure how. But at mile 4, we were about 41:30. I figured that with the hill to the finish, we probably would be between 52-53 minutes. That was great! We did better than that! We came in at 51:15!! What a fabulous race for us!
I couldn't be more proud of him! He hung in there, we talked, we kept pace and we enjoyed ourselves! Not to mention, we blew away his goal of finishing under an hour! Woo-hoo!
Last year, I ran a 10K in November. I loved it! I think I'll let Brady join me in that race. After this 5 mile race, there is NO doubting that he can do it!
As I talked about in a previous blog, Brady is really athletic. So he didn't need all that much training. He plays sports in nearly every season keeping him in great shape. We did go out running several times together. We made it to just over 4.2 miles on the last long run before the race. Our typical pace was just over a 10:30 mile.
I asked him what his thoughts were on the race. Did he know what his goal was? He said he really just wanted to finish the race and maybe come in under 1 hour. I told him that was fair and I could get him there. We just had to be sure to pace ourselves so we didn't burn out in the end. I bought him some new running shoes and a SPIbelt. He really needed the SPIbelt. His arms are sooooo skinny that an armband for his ipod doesn't stay up. Before we knew it, it was the day of the race.
At the starting line, Kip, Gianna and Nick cheered us on. They were all running the 2K. And we began...running the downhill. That's the best part of the race! At mile 1, we were running about a 9:30/mile. I figured that, as we ran about 1/3 downhill. Mile 2, we had a good 10 min/mile pace going. Mile 3, we were just under 31 min. Somehow, we lost time between mile 3 and 4...not sure how. But at mile 4, we were about 41:30. I figured that with the hill to the finish, we probably would be between 52-53 minutes. That was great! We did better than that! We came in at 51:15!! What a fabulous race for us!
I couldn't be more proud of him! He hung in there, we talked, we kept pace and we enjoyed ourselves! Not to mention, we blew away his goal of finishing under an hour! Woo-hoo!
Last year, I ran a 10K in November. I loved it! I think I'll let Brady join me in that race. After this 5 mile race, there is NO doubting that he can do it!
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Me and my boy
So, Brady (my 10 year old) has always been athletic. Very athletic. He ran my first 5K with me (my husband did as well)...beat me by 21 seconds. Then we ran another one together on Thanksgiving day, a turkey trot 5K. Again, he beat me. But only by 4 seconds! He has recently asked if he can run the upcoming 5 mile road race with me. I said yes because I know he has it in him.
We went down to the trail a little over a week ago and ran 4.26 miles. I was so proud of him! He did really well and we came in just over a 10:30 pace. Usually, the trail is a little slower so I figured that was a great time! The better thing was that he didn't want to cut out early. He really, really wanted to make it!
Yesterday, we went and ran on the trail again. We were hoping to get in just over 4.5. It was close to 4 pm and warm, about 80 degrees. We took some gatorade prime before the run and off we went. The beginning went pretty well, a little slow, but we needed to get into a rhythm. Then about mile 1.5, he felt great. Said he was in the zone. I was so glad for him...although I wasn't in the zone. It was tough with the heat and I was exhausted from little sleep and a garage sale all day that I had. But I would never let my kids see me quit! About mile 2.5 he was struggling. He was really hot and he said his knee was bothering him. Did some extra walking, tried to run again, but it was just not in the cards for him. We ran 2.97 miles. We walked the rest of it to home 2.04.
He kept apologizing to me, but really I didn't care that we were walking. I was just glad to have a companion, good conversation and my son by my side. Our time on our run wasn't great, but wasn't horrendous considering he wasn't feeling all that great. We ran it in 11 min/mile. All in all, we got 5 miles in running and walking and even with that, we would've finished in 1:05. I know he'll be ready to go in 2 weeks! I'm going to give us a goal of 55:00 (just because the last .3 is all up hill). I'm not going to tell him the goal, but that's what it is in my head.
We have 2 weeks to finish out the training...just me and my boy! Love him!
We went down to the trail a little over a week ago and ran 4.26 miles. I was so proud of him! He did really well and we came in just over a 10:30 pace. Usually, the trail is a little slower so I figured that was a great time! The better thing was that he didn't want to cut out early. He really, really wanted to make it!
Yesterday, we went and ran on the trail again. We were hoping to get in just over 4.5. It was close to 4 pm and warm, about 80 degrees. We took some gatorade prime before the run and off we went. The beginning went pretty well, a little slow, but we needed to get into a rhythm. Then about mile 1.5, he felt great. Said he was in the zone. I was so glad for him...although I wasn't in the zone. It was tough with the heat and I was exhausted from little sleep and a garage sale all day that I had. But I would never let my kids see me quit! About mile 2.5 he was struggling. He was really hot and he said his knee was bothering him. Did some extra walking, tried to run again, but it was just not in the cards for him. We ran 2.97 miles. We walked the rest of it to home 2.04.
He kept apologizing to me, but really I didn't care that we were walking. I was just glad to have a companion, good conversation and my son by my side. Our time on our run wasn't great, but wasn't horrendous considering he wasn't feeling all that great. We ran it in 11 min/mile. All in all, we got 5 miles in running and walking and even with that, we would've finished in 1:05. I know he'll be ready to go in 2 weeks! I'm going to give us a goal of 55:00 (just because the last .3 is all up hill). I'm not going to tell him the goal, but that's what it is in my head.
We have 2 weeks to finish out the training...just me and my boy! Love him!
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Right on target
So, my goals for 2012 were to run a half marathon and to run 700 miles. It's June now (although still the beginning) and I thought it would be a good time to check in on them.
Run a half marathon. DONE! Actually, I have run 2 and I probably have 2 more to run before the year is over. Who would ever imagine me running a half marathon? Holy cow, I couldn't even run a mile in January 2011! But I did it. My first half was on March 31st and I was soooo nervous! But I was with really good friends who settled me down and pulled me through it. Actually, I ran the last 5 miles on my own. Thank you to Beth and Linda for running with me the first 8 miles...I was truly blessed! Time: 2:20:48! I did it! I finished! My second was on May 6th. Not so good for me as I felt sick at about mile 4.5 and it lasted the entire rest of the race. Thank you to Joanne for running with me and for offering to stay with me. But I told her to go ahead, I didn't want to ruin her race. I walked large chunks of that race because of how bad I felt. But even with that, I finished 2:28:15! Holy cow...I thought I would've been about 3 hours for how I felt. That race took everything I had in me. I told my husband that next to Nick's labor, it was the hardest thing I have ever done. 2 more halfs are on the list: One in September, one in October...4 1/2 weeks apart. I can certainly check "run a half marathon" off of my list!
Run 700 miles. That's quite a lot of miles. As of today, I am at 315 miles. I have 35 more to run this month to truly be half way there. I can certainly do it! Although I am not running the longer distances like I was when I was training, with the half in September, I'll be starting the training again in July. So, the miles will build up once again. I'm running about 15-20 miles a week for the most part, so it certainly will get me there.
Next year, I might make a goal to run a marathon, or run a sub-30 5K (yes, I am not fast hence the name of my blog...notsofastmomma!). But for 2012, I am right on target!
Run a half marathon. DONE! Actually, I have run 2 and I probably have 2 more to run before the year is over. Who would ever imagine me running a half marathon? Holy cow, I couldn't even run a mile in January 2011! But I did it. My first half was on March 31st and I was soooo nervous! But I was with really good friends who settled me down and pulled me through it. Actually, I ran the last 5 miles on my own. Thank you to Beth and Linda for running with me the first 8 miles...I was truly blessed! Time: 2:20:48! I did it! I finished! My second was on May 6th. Not so good for me as I felt sick at about mile 4.5 and it lasted the entire rest of the race. Thank you to Joanne for running with me and for offering to stay with me. But I told her to go ahead, I didn't want to ruin her race. I walked large chunks of that race because of how bad I felt. But even with that, I finished 2:28:15! Holy cow...I thought I would've been about 3 hours for how I felt. That race took everything I had in me. I told my husband that next to Nick's labor, it was the hardest thing I have ever done. 2 more halfs are on the list: One in September, one in October...4 1/2 weeks apart. I can certainly check "run a half marathon" off of my list!
Run 700 miles. That's quite a lot of miles. As of today, I am at 315 miles. I have 35 more to run this month to truly be half way there. I can certainly do it! Although I am not running the longer distances like I was when I was training, with the half in September, I'll be starting the training again in July. So, the miles will build up once again. I'm running about 15-20 miles a week for the most part, so it certainly will get me there.
Next year, I might make a goal to run a marathon, or run a sub-30 5K (yes, I am not fast hence the name of my blog...notsofastmomma!). But for 2012, I am right on target!
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Running is not supposed to give you more stress...
On Saturday, there is a 5K run that most of my running buddies will be attending. I have been throwing around the idea of going, but I kept coming back to no. At first, I thought it was because of the little chicken in me. I know I'm not fast, and sometimes I think, do I really want to go and show people how slow I really am? I'll NEVER medal in a 5K. NEVER. EVER. But then the competitive little girl that lives inside of me said, "well, you do want to have a sub-30 min 5K", so I thought about going. Even though, I am not sure I can break 30 min just yet, I have been working on it. I've been really pushing myself with speed workouts at the gym. Yesterday, I had a 2 mile run in 19:55. And I am faster on the road versus the treadmill for whatever reason.
But...on Saturday, both of my boys have baseball games. One at 11 and one at 1:30. Could I go to the race and get back in time? Sure, but it would be pushing it and I'd feel very stressed about it. So why do that to myself? Running is not supposed to give you more stress. Right? Right. Running is supposed to relieve your stress. So, I have decided not to run in the 5K. At least not the one on Saturday morning.
Yes, I'll see the pictures of everyone running and finishing, and I'll get a little jealous. But...I will not be stressed in the morning and I will be able to make it to both games without feeling like I have major time constraints on me. That, I think, will be more worth it. There are plenty of other 5Ks to run throughout the summer. This isn't the only one.
Until then, I will continue to do some speedwork. 2x a week if I can. I will get faster. I will have a sub 30 5K. Not sure when, but I will. But I'm not going to stress about it. Because running is not supposed to give you more stress!
But...on Saturday, both of my boys have baseball games. One at 11 and one at 1:30. Could I go to the race and get back in time? Sure, but it would be pushing it and I'd feel very stressed about it. So why do that to myself? Running is not supposed to give you more stress. Right? Right. Running is supposed to relieve your stress. So, I have decided not to run in the 5K. At least not the one on Saturday morning.
Yes, I'll see the pictures of everyone running and finishing, and I'll get a little jealous. But...I will not be stressed in the morning and I will be able to make it to both games without feeling like I have major time constraints on me. That, I think, will be more worth it. There are plenty of other 5Ks to run throughout the summer. This isn't the only one.
Until then, I will continue to do some speedwork. 2x a week if I can. I will get faster. I will have a sub 30 5K. Not sure when, but I will. But I'm not going to stress about it. Because running is not supposed to give you more stress!
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
The athlete in me
I would typically not consider myself an athlete. I never have. Growing up, I was a chubby girl. I didn't do much as far as athletic activities. I played softball around 7th grade or so, but not seriously. Then I played volleyball in high school. I went to a volleyball camp and really learned to love the game, the problem was, I wasn't great at it. I was intimidated by it. But I played through high school.
In college, I played flag football and loved it. I quarterbacked some of the time. Still I would not consider myself an athlete. I had often wanted to run. Some friends of mine invited me to go on a run with them around campus. One time around was about enough. I hated it! It was so hard and man was I out of breath and out of shape.
I did play some recreational softball on a team where I worked. I loved it. Again, I wasn't great at it, but I loved it! And the last 2 years, I have played on our church softball team. The more I play, the more confident I get.
And, of course, I run. As you know, I began running in January 2011 with the intention of completing a 5K. I have since run a 2K, 4 5Ks, a 10K and 2 half marathons. Who would think? I can't believe it myself. I'm not great at it. It's hard for me. I watch people who can run 7,8,9 minute miles and think holy cow...I'll never do that! But I run and I give it my all.
My husband, Kip, said something to me when I came home from the Pittsburgh half marathon. It was a tough, challenging run for me with the heat. But I was determined to finish. When I walked in the door, he hugged me and said "don't ever say you're not an athlete again". He told me that what I did today was truly athletic and that I was an athlete. Me...an athlete! Can you believe it? Those words from him touched me and I will never forget them or the way he said it. I do have an athlete in me. I just have to work a little harder to see it. But it's there. I'm an athlete!
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
The Pittsburgh half
Well, I had hoped to come in around 2:15 at the Pittsburgh half since that first half marathon I ran 5 weeks ago, was 2:20. That was not to be! Let me tell you all about it.
We arrived in plenty of time and made our way to the corral. My friend, Joanne, didn't want me to run alone, so we were planning on running together. I was a little worried about this because Joanne is much faster than me, but we trained together and she insisted. I was happy to have a friend by my side. I should mention that it was in the low 60s when we started and the sun was bright with no cloud cover around.
And the race begins! The first mile, we went out too fast. Or at least I did! A 9:45 mile. That's too fast for me. We slowed down a bit. Our next miles were 10:53, 10:39 and 10:18 respectively. Then it all went downhill. I started feeling really, really nauseous about mile 4 1/2 or so. We stopped to walk for about 2 minutes to see if that would help and then we started running again. About mile 5, I told Joanne to just go on without me. Her race shouldn't be hindered because I was sick. From then on, I would have no idea about pace as Joanne had the garmin. I don't own one. I tried to slow down and walk when needed. About the 10K mark, I thought I would have to pack it in. An additional 7 miles seemed so daunting to me when I felt so bad. But I just kept going. I met up with a man who was running the relay. I talked with him about the heat and asked if he wanted to switch places, he could do the half, I could do the relay. He just laughed and said I had a great pace. At mile 7, I really had the first positive thought pop in my head. I was over half way there! At every fluid station, I poured water down my neck and back to try to cool me off. And I filled up my water bottle 3 times. At my walk breaks, I always managed to talk to someone else walking. Runners are always so nice. I really thought I was past mile 10 when I hit the 15K mark, so that disappointed me a little. Plus, now I had the chills. Got onto the Birmingham bridge and talked to a nice young lady who was running her first half. I cheered her on! OK...mile 11, only 2 more miles to go! I would make it...no matter what! I wanted that medal! Right before mile 12, I walked along side an older gentleman. We talked about the heat and I told him about my race so far and how I felt. He immediately told me that I needed to drink gatorade and not water. He said I needed the electrolytes. (I hadn't grabbed gatorade at the fluid stations because I didn't train with it and didn't know how it would affect my stomach) Luckily, a fluid station was coming up and he walked over with me to grab gatorade. I drank it and then grabbed water to pour down my back. Turned and there he was with another cup of gatorade. He walked and ran with me a bit and then I told him I was going to go. He had injured knees so wasn't able to run all that much. He told me to be careful and stop if I felt nauseous again. I thanked him several times. He was so nice to me! Luckily the last mile is downhill...thank goodness! Started running and could see the finish line. I would make it. I kept telling myself if I could get across the finish line, I could go to the medical tent. Crossed the line, got the medal, blanket, food and went and sat down...I did it! What a challenge! I ate and felt a little better, called Joanne and met up with her. She did great 2:12...I feel badly I held her up at the beginning. Me, I did better than I thought. With all of the walking (and I had to walk quite a bit so I wouldn't collapse), my time was 2:28:15. Holy cow! I thought I would be close to 3 hours.
I was proud of myself for pushing through and having the will and determination to finish. It was by far one of the hardest things I ever had to do. But I did it! I called my husband and broke down a bit. He and the kids were so proud of me! During the race, I was thinking that I never wanted to do it again. But I do. I'm not going to stop. I'm just going to take this race as a learning experience. I didn't adjust for the sun and warmth and I needed to. Almost all, if not all, of our long runs, were in cold temperatures. The warmest was 50 degrees and I think that run was 8 miles. I learned my lesson and can move on.
Thanks to everyone who supported me. Thanks to Joanne for sticking with me until I told her to go. What an adventure! I look forward to many more!
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Finally...back to blogging!
So, finally our computer is repaired and I can blog once more. So sorry it has been so long. It seems like my last post was forever ago.
Tomorrow is the Pittsburgh half marathon. It's the race that I have been yearning to run! The race my friends have talked about, all around the city, the race with people cheering you on everywhere...oh, I can't wait! So excited, but every once in a while, I get this "oh my gosh" nervous feeling. It comes out of nowhere.
Last Saturday was our last long run. It was one of my worst! Ughhh...I think it was more mental than physical. I got up thinking I did not want to run. I think my body is just fatigued. I hope it doesn't feel that way tomorrow. I really was struggling on that last long run. Our time was bad, I felt bad...you get the idea.
Tomorrow, however, everything I trained for is coming together. Joanne, her sister and I are headed to the expo here in a couple of hours. We will pick up our packets, maybe buy a couple of things and just have a good time! Tomorrow, the race starts at 7:30. What does that mean? It means we will be getting up very, very early to make it down there with time to spare so we are not freaking out! Joanne or possibly her sister will be driving, so luckily I do not need to worry about driving tomorrow. I just need to worry about waking up on time. Funny, but I don't think that will be a problem. I'm thinking I'll be up half the night with nerves anyway.
Everything is ready to go. My outfit is picked, including socks. My ipod is charged. I have my gu chomps and water bottle together. I think I am ready to go! I will give you all of the details of the race tomorrow. Until then...pray for me! :)
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Almost there
Okay...so its been some time since I have posted. Nothing I can do about that. We are having A LOT of problems with our computer. Sending it to get fixed, but until it is, my posts might be far and few in between. ! Joanne and I ran 12.1 miles on Saturday. In the rain...not a drizzle or a shower, but rain. The entire 12 miles. Ugh! But I'm definitely prepared if it should rain on race day. We didn't do too bad that day, considering the sheer number of hills that were in our route plus the weather. I think we finished in 2:16. I'll take it! At least we got it done.
We have one more long run of 8 miles on Saturday and then it should be it. Taper week is next week and then...the race!! So excited, but I know I'll be incredibly nervous! I can't believe there is only 10 days to go! Woo-hoo!
Now let's talk nutrition. I have totally been lacking in the good nutrition category. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I need to do better for my body. The exercise is definitely there, but the eating is not. I am going to focus on what my body really needs before this race. I'll let you know how that goes. Until then...
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Family Runs
I realize I haven't written in a long time. I'll try to be better about that. Life sometimes gets in the way of blogging. OK...it doesn't, but I spend too much time doing things that don't matter and I really need to focus on what needs done. But that's a whole other blog. Today I want to talk about family runs.
Last Wednesday, I recruited my 9 year old son, Brady to go out on a 4 mile trail run with me. He was so excited to go. He is very athletic and loves to test himself, so this was good for him. He has run a couple of 5Ks with me, but that is the furthest he had ever gone. We headed out the door and made our way down to the trail...it's about 4/10s of a mile from my house. He didn't really like running on the street because I kept having to call out car! car! and made sure he moved over to the grass. He did enjoy the trail though. He did really well. I could tell he was getting a bit tired, so I said that we can stop at the end of the trail, it would be 3.6 miles and then just walk back up to the house, but he didn't want to do that. He said "no, I want to finish." There is a hill to go back up the the house from the trail. It's a decent hill. I coached him up it and he ran the whole thing. When we got to the house, he was beat! We ran 4 miles in 41:59. I was so pleased with that time for us! I had told him prior to running that I'd play catch with him when we got back. After the run, he said he didn't want to play catch (surprising for him!) because he was done. Several hours later, my daughter said "Is Brady sleeping?" Sure enough, I went upstairs to check on him, and he was sound asleep...for 2 1/2 hours! That run certainly wore him out! But I was so proud of him!
Then on Saturday, I was supposed to run 5-6 miles. I asked Brady if he wanted to come with me and he said he would as long as it was later in the day. So I waited and waited...finally I said at close to 4pm...you're not coming with me, are you? He said "No...sorry Momma." I wasn't mad, just disappointed. I was looking forward to a trail run, but don't go there alone, so I guess it was hitting the streets! When I went to leave, I saw Kip and he asked where I was running. I kind of whined about the streets and he told me to wait, he'd change and come with me. Yippee! We headed off to the trail. We started off good, but about 2 miles in, Kip's hip flexor was hurting...changed our plan and slowed down, but it didn't help. He told me to go ahead and he'd keep me in sight. So I did. We got in 4.45 miles. He felt bad that he slowed me down, but I didn't care. I was glad he offered to come with me so I could run the trail.
I love that my family comes with me. Sometimes, I just don't want to run alone. It's nice to have company. I often run around the culdesac when Nicholas is home because I can't leave him alone. It gets boring. So to change from the trail to the hilly streets to the treadmill to the flat culdesac, that's a good thing! I love family runs!
Last Wednesday, I recruited my 9 year old son, Brady to go out on a 4 mile trail run with me. He was so excited to go. He is very athletic and loves to test himself, so this was good for him. He has run a couple of 5Ks with me, but that is the furthest he had ever gone. We headed out the door and made our way down to the trail...it's about 4/10s of a mile from my house. He didn't really like running on the street because I kept having to call out car! car! and made sure he moved over to the grass. He did enjoy the trail though. He did really well. I could tell he was getting a bit tired, so I said that we can stop at the end of the trail, it would be 3.6 miles and then just walk back up to the house, but he didn't want to do that. He said "no, I want to finish." There is a hill to go back up the the house from the trail. It's a decent hill. I coached him up it and he ran the whole thing. When we got to the house, he was beat! We ran 4 miles in 41:59. I was so pleased with that time for us! I had told him prior to running that I'd play catch with him when we got back. After the run, he said he didn't want to play catch (surprising for him!) because he was done. Several hours later, my daughter said "Is Brady sleeping?" Sure enough, I went upstairs to check on him, and he was sound asleep...for 2 1/2 hours! That run certainly wore him out! But I was so proud of him!
Then on Saturday, I was supposed to run 5-6 miles. I asked Brady if he wanted to come with me and he said he would as long as it was later in the day. So I waited and waited...finally I said at close to 4pm...you're not coming with me, are you? He said "No...sorry Momma." I wasn't mad, just disappointed. I was looking forward to a trail run, but don't go there alone, so I guess it was hitting the streets! When I went to leave, I saw Kip and he asked where I was running. I kind of whined about the streets and he told me to wait, he'd change and come with me. Yippee! We headed off to the trail. We started off good, but about 2 miles in, Kip's hip flexor was hurting...changed our plan and slowed down, but it didn't help. He told me to go ahead and he'd keep me in sight. So I did. We got in 4.45 miles. He felt bad that he slowed me down, but I didn't care. I was glad he offered to come with me so I could run the trail.
I love that my family comes with me. Sometimes, I just don't want to run alone. It's nice to have company. I often run around the culdesac when Nicholas is home because I can't leave him alone. It gets boring. So to change from the trail to the hilly streets to the treadmill to the flat culdesac, that's a good thing! I love family runs!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
My first half marathon!
I did it! I completed a half marathon and I truly can't believe it! I'm here to tell you all about it.
Woke up at 5:30 and I was so nervous my knees were shaking. Oh my! Took a look at the weather and it said 41. I thought ok, I'll wear capris, a running tank and a jacket. Headed out the door at 6:20 to pick up my friend Beth. Got to her house and waited a few minutes then went and knocked on the door. Her hubby answered and said he didn't think she was ready yet. She set her alarm to pm instead of am and just woke up! She screamed down to me "I don't want to stress you, but I just woke up. I have everything layed out and will be ready in a bit." I told her it was no big deal. I was just glad to have someone to go down with.
So on our way we went. Made it there early and found parking, hopped on the shuttle and there we were in the excitement of it all! Found our other friends, made our bag drop and realized it was VERY cold! Holy cow was I cold! Luckily, my experienced running buddy Beth brought garbage bags to put over us to keep warm until the beginning of the race. Got where we needed to be and waited for the countdown.
Once we started, my nerves disappeared. Our first mile was VERY slow due to the sheer congestion at the start. Made it through the first 3.1 no problems. Our split on that was 33:54. Then came the first of two 5 mile loops around the lake. Man, it seemed so long to get around it! At about mile 7 1/2 or so, Beth stopped to use a portapotty so told me to go ahead and "run like the wind"! So I kept going...my split at 8.1 was 1:27:44. Mile 8 and 9 seemed ok, but at mile 10 I realized I had a blister under my right big toe and it hurt every time my foot hit the ground. Then I could tell on my left foot that a toe nail was digging into another toe. I guess it balanced me out since now I had pain in both feet!
Mile 11 was a killer. It was really tough. I was getting tired. My legs were sore and it just seemed like I had forever to go yet. Mile 12 was a little bit better. I started to remind myself that I was close to the finish and my legs weren't going to give out on me. I could see that the finish line was close and found my friend and training buddy, Joanne, waiting for me and screaming me on! I was so happy to see her and gave her a high five as I passed her. Crossed the finish line in 2:20:48! I cried before I reached the medals. I was so overwhelmed that I did it! Got my medal, hugged and cried to Joanne and then we went to cheer Beth on. She wasn't too far behind me and I was able to get a great picture of her.
What an accomplishment! I would not have been able to do this without Joanne and Beth. I was inspired and encouraged by them for the last year. They are great running partners, women and friends! I can't believe I did it! I finished a half marathon! WOO-HOO!
Woke up at 5:30 and I was so nervous my knees were shaking. Oh my! Took a look at the weather and it said 41. I thought ok, I'll wear capris, a running tank and a jacket. Headed out the door at 6:20 to pick up my friend Beth. Got to her house and waited a few minutes then went and knocked on the door. Her hubby answered and said he didn't think she was ready yet. She set her alarm to pm instead of am and just woke up! She screamed down to me "I don't want to stress you, but I just woke up. I have everything layed out and will be ready in a bit." I told her it was no big deal. I was just glad to have someone to go down with.
So on our way we went. Made it there early and found parking, hopped on the shuttle and there we were in the excitement of it all! Found our other friends, made our bag drop and realized it was VERY cold! Holy cow was I cold! Luckily, my experienced running buddy Beth brought garbage bags to put over us to keep warm until the beginning of the race. Got where we needed to be and waited for the countdown.
Once we started, my nerves disappeared. Our first mile was VERY slow due to the sheer congestion at the start. Made it through the first 3.1 no problems. Our split on that was 33:54. Then came the first of two 5 mile loops around the lake. Man, it seemed so long to get around it! At about mile 7 1/2 or so, Beth stopped to use a portapotty so told me to go ahead and "run like the wind"! So I kept going...my split at 8.1 was 1:27:44. Mile 8 and 9 seemed ok, but at mile 10 I realized I had a blister under my right big toe and it hurt every time my foot hit the ground. Then I could tell on my left foot that a toe nail was digging into another toe. I guess it balanced me out since now I had pain in both feet!
Mile 11 was a killer. It was really tough. I was getting tired. My legs were sore and it just seemed like I had forever to go yet. Mile 12 was a little bit better. I started to remind myself that I was close to the finish and my legs weren't going to give out on me. I could see that the finish line was close and found my friend and training buddy, Joanne, waiting for me and screaming me on! I was so happy to see her and gave her a high five as I passed her. Crossed the finish line in 2:20:48! I cried before I reached the medals. I was so overwhelmed that I did it! Got my medal, hugged and cried to Joanne and then we went to cheer Beth on. She wasn't too far behind me and I was able to get a great picture of her.
What an accomplishment! I would not have been able to do this without Joanne and Beth. I was inspired and encouraged by them for the last year. They are great running partners, women and friends! I can't believe I did it! I finished a half marathon! WOO-HOO!
Friday, March 30, 2012
Tomorrow's the day!
I can't believe it's here! Tomorrow at this time, I will be getting lined up to run my half marathon. All the months of training, exhaustion, and hard work come down to this. I am so excited, but SO nervous!
I was on dailymile this morning and asked if anyone had any last minute advice for me. Someone said something which will stick with me. He said "let the race come to you". I never thought of it that way, but what a good way of looking at it. We often get so wrapped up in the "race" that really if we just do what we had been doing all along, the race will just be there. We would be running the race instead of the race running us. What a concept! I am going to try to think about that tomorrow.
I think that I have said it before. I know that I have trained well. I have never changed my training or missed training. I stuck it out no matter what the weather or how I felt. I really, really want to do well tomorrow. But first and foremost, I want to finish. I am going to start out running with my friend Beth. She has done this several times before and I think if I stick with her, I won't give into the adrenaline and go out too fast. I know that is the key! With 13 miles to go, I cannot go out too fast. If I can keep a consistent pace the first half, I am hoping to increase my speed a little in the second half and hopefully have a good bit for the last mile. That's my plan. But I know that plans often get changed. Whatever it is, it is. I just want to finish.
I know I will be emotional. I've cried several times just thinking about it. I told my friends that the other day and they agreed. They've all been there. They've had that overwhelming feeling of finishing something you've worked so hard for. I'll be there. In just over 24 hours. Oh my!
I was on dailymile this morning and asked if anyone had any last minute advice for me. Someone said something which will stick with me. He said "let the race come to you". I never thought of it that way, but what a good way of looking at it. We often get so wrapped up in the "race" that really if we just do what we had been doing all along, the race will just be there. We would be running the race instead of the race running us. What a concept! I am going to try to think about that tomorrow.
I think that I have said it before. I know that I have trained well. I have never changed my training or missed training. I stuck it out no matter what the weather or how I felt. I really, really want to do well tomorrow. But first and foremost, I want to finish. I am going to start out running with my friend Beth. She has done this several times before and I think if I stick with her, I won't give into the adrenaline and go out too fast. I know that is the key! With 13 miles to go, I cannot go out too fast. If I can keep a consistent pace the first half, I am hoping to increase my speed a little in the second half and hopefully have a good bit for the last mile. That's my plan. But I know that plans often get changed. Whatever it is, it is. I just want to finish.
I know I will be emotional. I've cried several times just thinking about it. I told my friends that the other day and they agreed. They've all been there. They've had that overwhelming feeling of finishing something you've worked so hard for. I'll be there. In just over 24 hours. Oh my!
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
It's coming!
The half marathon that is! I can't believe it's on Saturday. Oh my! I am so excited right now. Much more excited than nervous, but I know come Friday night/Saturday morning, I will be much more nervous than excited.
On Saturday, we ran a short (haha) 8.25 miles. In the rain. Sometimes the pouring rain. And guess what? I liked it! I really did enjoy myself on that run. I started with a light jacket on over a running tank, but ended up taking it off about mile 2 1/2. I did buy a hat at the running store before we left on our run and I was so glad I did! It kept the rain out of my face. My friend, Beth, forgot her hat and she was complaining that her eyes were burning from the sweat mixed with the rain dripping in her eyes. I'm sure that hat will come in handy for me many times.
I have decided to run each of my miles for someone during the half marathon. I asked some of my family/friends to choose a mile. I read this in a book (although they were doing the full marathon) and thought it was a great idea. I figured if anything, it would keep my mind focused on who I am running for that mile, even for just a little bit. Of course, the last .1 I am running for me!
So, it's taper week. Not much running going on this week. It actually feels kind of strange. I only ran 2 miles yesterday and did an hour of yoga last night. I'll run again tomorrow and then that will be it until Saturday. I am going to ride the bike today and possibly for a bit on Thursday. Hopefully, my legs will be fresh, rested and ready to go on Saturday! I really can't believe it's almost here!
On Saturday, we ran a short (haha) 8.25 miles. In the rain. Sometimes the pouring rain. And guess what? I liked it! I really did enjoy myself on that run. I started with a light jacket on over a running tank, but ended up taking it off about mile 2 1/2. I did buy a hat at the running store before we left on our run and I was so glad I did! It kept the rain out of my face. My friend, Beth, forgot her hat and she was complaining that her eyes were burning from the sweat mixed with the rain dripping in her eyes. I'm sure that hat will come in handy for me many times.
I have decided to run each of my miles for someone during the half marathon. I asked some of my family/friends to choose a mile. I read this in a book (although they were doing the full marathon) and thought it was a great idea. I figured if anything, it would keep my mind focused on who I am running for that mile, even for just a little bit. Of course, the last .1 I am running for me!
So, it's taper week. Not much running going on this week. It actually feels kind of strange. I only ran 2 miles yesterday and did an hour of yoga last night. I'll run again tomorrow and then that will be it until Saturday. I am going to ride the bike today and possibly for a bit on Thursday. Hopefully, my legs will be fresh, rested and ready to go on Saturday! I really can't believe it's almost here!
Thursday, March 22, 2012
9 days and counting
Oh my! I can't believe my first 1/2 marathon is in 9 days! 9 DAYS! That is just crazy!
I know that day I am going to be super nervous. There is no way to get around it. Luckily, though, I have offered to pick my friends up so we can go together. First, I will be driving, so I will have to focus on the road rather than the race. Second, my friends have run a 1/2 before and they are so stinkin' funny, they will make me laugh the whole way down.
I know that I can make it. Last week, when we ran the 12 miles, I could've added another 1.1 no problem. I know I could have! Not that I wasn't tired, not that I wasn't hurting, but I could've done it. I'm going to try to remember that when I am on the way to the race.
I am not going to be running for any certain goal time. I have heard that is not a smart thing to do in any first race. Do I have a time in my head of where I think I will be? YES. Will I be upset if I don't hit that time? NO. I will be estatic just to finish. I know I will cry. I'll cry out of happiness, out of exhaustion and out of realizing I accomplished something in my life I never thought I would. I can't believe I am running in a half marathon. I just can't believe it.
I have trained so hard. I never waivered in my training. I stuck to it when it was snowing, windy, cold...it didn't matter. When I had to run, I ran. I have added biking for cross-training and have added miles and miles as well as muscle by riding. I can't wait! I can't wait to complete the race. 9 days can't come soon enough!
I know that day I am going to be super nervous. There is no way to get around it. Luckily, though, I have offered to pick my friends up so we can go together. First, I will be driving, so I will have to focus on the road rather than the race. Second, my friends have run a 1/2 before and they are so stinkin' funny, they will make me laugh the whole way down.
I know that I can make it. Last week, when we ran the 12 miles, I could've added another 1.1 no problem. I know I could have! Not that I wasn't tired, not that I wasn't hurting, but I could've done it. I'm going to try to remember that when I am on the way to the race.
I am not going to be running for any certain goal time. I have heard that is not a smart thing to do in any first race. Do I have a time in my head of where I think I will be? YES. Will I be upset if I don't hit that time? NO. I will be estatic just to finish. I know I will cry. I'll cry out of happiness, out of exhaustion and out of realizing I accomplished something in my life I never thought I would. I can't believe I am running in a half marathon. I just can't believe it.
I have trained so hard. I never waivered in my training. I stuck to it when it was snowing, windy, cold...it didn't matter. When I had to run, I ran. I have added biking for cross-training and have added miles and miles as well as muscle by riding. I can't wait! I can't wait to complete the race. 9 days can't come soon enough!
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