I started this blog as a way to reflect (or rant) about the training for my first half marathon. Now that I have rocked my first half, I have decided that I will attempt to keep up with the blogging. Again, I'm not sure how often I'll update, but I will give it a whirl!
As you can see, I have changed the blog name to: Live. Laugh. Run. I figured this would be the best name to go with because I plan on using this blog as a way to talk about life and whatnot, along with running. And let's be honest, you can't talk about life and running without a little bit of laughter!
The Rock n' Roll St. Louis Half Marathon was October 23rd. I have done a race every weekend since then. I know, I sound so hardcore, don't I? I'm not sure what I was thinking when I signed up for all these races right after completing my first half. Maybe I did it right after I finished a long run and had runner's brain. Regardless, I did them and had fun, but also learned a few lessons.
Race Reports
SIU Army ROTC 10k
October 29th
1:02:48
This 10k was just six days after the half marathon. Um, yeah. I had never done a 10k before, so I thought after 13.1 mile, 6.2 would be cake. Ha! That week, Tim and I met up with Jaime to run the course because we had heard it was a bit confusing. During this little practice run, I ended hurting myself a bit. Close to mile 4, I started having sharp pains behind my right knee. I slowed down and just got through the run. The next day, that area was a bit tight, but not really painful or bothering me too much, so I just shrugged it off as fatigue.
Race day was pretty much the same. I was fine the first 3-4 miles, then the pain sneaked back in along with a bit of side stitch-- my favorite! On top of that fun, I was very much aware that I was dead last. Seriously, there were no other runners behind me and if I squinted, I could see 2 others way ahead of me. Oddly enough, I always have that coming in last fear-- I mean, how embarrassing! I wasn't too concerned about that for this one because there were only like 30 runners doing the 10k, not like 200. In the end, I caught up to the runners in front of me and came in only a few seconds after them. And of course, I smiled as I crossed the finish line! :)
Funny enough, my dead last finish was actually a 3rd Place finish in my age group! Tim rocked it and got 1st and Jaime killed her goal time and came in 2nd!
Annual 10 Mile Tunnel Hill Trail Run
November 5th
1:46:08 (Official Time)
1:45:12 (Garmin Time)
This was a great race! Tunnel Hill Trail is a converted railroad path that is now a popular bike trail. Tim signed us up for it and said that he just wanted to run it with me. Thank goodness! I was out of town for work for most of the week and actually got home pretty late the night before this race. Again, what was I thinking?!?!
There are a lot of things that I liked about this race. First, the shirts are super cute. Okay, so that really doesn't impact the running, but I like the swag. Seriously, race shirts, medals, free stuff-- it just makes the race experience that more fun! Also, they had a great post race spread. From soup to Oreo cookies, plenty of noms for everyone!
The actual run was pretty good. It was a bit chilly, but the sky was blue and the leaves were full of fall color. The first 5 miles were pretty easy going. Tim and I were running a steady pace just talking about my trip, etc. About halfway into mile 6, the same area behind my knee started hurting. I pushed through for another mile and then stopped to walk. Big mistake! Walking seemed to make me more aware of the pain! Super annoying stuff! I slowed down once again and just focused on finishing. The pain would subside for a bit then come back. Tim was super supportive during the whole thing and got me through it. We finished the race strong and although my leg was killing me, I am happy I did it.
I enjoyed this race because there are more folks like me running than there are real competitors. Sure, the "elites" were in front racing for a PR or placement, but the bulk of the people that were there seemed to be relaxed and enjoying it. I know some folks were surprised that Tim ran it with me because he is a bit competitive at these things. The funny thing about Tim is that he sometimes doesn't even care about time or pace, sometimes he just likes to run-- even at my turtle pace!
Women Together 5k
November 12th
30:27
Okay, I was super dreading this race. On Tuesday, Tim and I ran the course and it was terrible. My hamstring on my right leg was still tender and started hurting after about a mile in. Then, about a quarter mile from finishing, I got a horrible side stitch. Like, the side stitch that could kill all other side stitches. I was told by Tim and a physical therapist that my body was over compensating for my injury and to STOP RUNNING. But, but, but... what do you mean stop running? That is pretty much what I did though. I wrapped the leg and did a few exercises at work and just told myself that I will just have to see how it felt on Saturday.
I was thrilled when I woke up on Saturday pain free! Yippy! However, running was going to be the real test. Once again, Tim decided he would run with me. I told him that I just wanted to get through it and not worry about time. Which was easy to do because I forgot to turn my watch on! I happy to report that my leg never started hurting and although I did get a side stitch at the end, it wasn't terrible and I was able to push through. I was only 19 seconds away from 3rd place! So close! Oh, I have to give a shout out to Leah on her first run after being injured since the half. Glad to see you back out there running!
On a side note, this 5k holds a bit of a special place in my heart. The proceeds go to The Women's Center, a facility that assists women and children in southern Illinois impacted by domestic violence. When I was a child, I spent a few weeks there after my parents had some issues. I don't really remember the details of why we were there, but I do remember being comforted by the people there and that there were a lot of other children there with us. In a perfect world, we wouldn't need a place like this, but sadly, our world is flawed and I'm just happy to be able to help them raise a little bit of money.
So, that gets me up to date on race reports. I am signed up for another 10k this weekend. My leg seems to be fine, so hopefully all will go well. I have gotten back into strength training, so that should help with avoiding injuries. I plan on just getting back to a running routine through the holiday season and then get back to a training schedule after the new year. I am signed up for one half marathon in April, but may sign up for another in February. Tim keeps asking me about a marathon, but I'm not so sure I'm ready yet! I think I need to do a few more half marathons before I commit to 26.2 miles! I can't even wrap my mind about that yet!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Thirteen Point Freakin' One!
Distance: 13 Point Freakin 1!
Time: 2:23:08
Wow. What an amazing experience. Running the Rock n Roll St. Louis Half Marathon was so much fun, it's hard to wrap my brain around everything I want to say about it!
We headed up to St. Louis the day before the race for the Expo and packet pick up. The Expo was a bit overwhelming because it was so crowded and a bit confusing. There were a total of 5 us racing and we all decided to try signing up with a pace team to help us during the race. Leah, Jaime and I signed up with the 2:20, which I thought would be good for me. I wasn't sure I could come in at the time, but I felt I was closer to 2:20, than 2:30, which was my initial goal when I started training. I figured that if I was unable to keep up with Leah and Jaime, at least I would have the pace team to distract me.
That night after we settled into the hotel room, I was so nervous! I pulled out all my clothes, got my shoes ready, chattered on and on to Tim-- which didn't really help him much because he was nervous about his first Full Marathon, too! I'm guessing that we only got maybe 4 hours of sleep that night. Ridiculous!
Tim and I woke up around 4am and stayed in bed talking. We were so restless and nervous! We were pretty wired and just waiting for the alarm to go off. At 5am, "Born to Run" came blaring out of Tim's cell phone. It was time to get up and get going.
After a small breakfast, we met up with everyone at the lobby. I was happy to see that my sister, Laura, was able to join us to see us take off! We headed towards the start line looking for Tracy and Jaime. As we got closer, we could hear the music and see the thousands of people already in the corrals. I had a brief moment of panic-- what the heck was I doing??!?!?
I really didn't want to leave Tim. I knew he was nervous and I just wanted to stay with him as long as I could. Maybe I just needed him, too. Either way, at a certain point it was time to go our separate ways. The corral wait wasn't too bad. We found our pace team easily and they had giant beach balls, music, etc. Heck, we even saw a smurf while waiting! It was a nice distraction before the start. At one point, they played "Beautiful Day" by U2. Again, I thought of Tim because this is one of his go to songs for running. When they released corral 7, I cheered him on and hoped he would have a great run!
So, Tim's corral was released, then Tracy's. Then, corral 13! I was pumped at this point and just wanted to get moving. We moved up to the start line and were released-- my first half marathon had begun!
I stayed with Jaime and Leah for the first couple of miles. It was difficult to stay with them because of all the people and the course had so many turns. We were way ahead of the pace team, so I figured I would just stick with them as long as I could and then get with the pace team at some point. I knew that Jaime and Leah were going to smoke the 2:20 time, so I just found a comfortable pace and enjoyed the atmosphere-- which was fantastic! I have never had so much fun during a race. All the cheerleaders and signs were great distractions and really motivating. It is so amazing that all these people came out to cheer on a bunch of crazy runners so early on a Sunday morning!
Some of my favorite signs:
Chaff Now, Brag Later
Run Like a Kenyon
Worst. Parade. Ever.
I don't know you, but I believe in you!
Toenails are overrated.
Just keeping swimming, swimming, swimming (My favorite- I hope Jaime saw it!)
Some of favorite cheerleaders/bands, etc.:
The Mimes cracked me up!
The guy that was hitting a cooking pot with a spoon (I saw him at 2 different spots on the route!)
The star-shaped arch that I ran through and the girls snapping photos.
The little kids that gave me high fives. (Awesome.)
The pirates at one of the water stations.
The guys giving out beer at mile 11.
The band near the end playing "Don't Stop Believing" right before I had to go up one more hill!
I could go on and on about things I saw during the race. There was so much inspiration all around me that it was almost overwhelming. One lady had a shirt on that said it was her first half marathon after beating cancer. I saw numerous shirts that said they were running for someone. Whenever I felt tired or questioned my sanity, I would look up and see a sign or a shirt that would remind that I just needed to keep on going.
A little bit after mile 7, Leah suddenly appeared at my side. She was having issues with her knee and told Jaime to go on ahead. I was happy to have some company at that point because I was starting to lose the pace team. We continued on together, walking the water stations (which were like Splashin' Safari-- water going everywhere!) and kept one another motivated. At one point, I was afraid we were being passed by the the 2:30 pace team, but was happy to see that it was the other 2:20 team. I felt confident that I would be in between the two times. At mile 12, I decided I had to just push through and get that race over with! The band that was playing right before the last hill was blaring "Don't Stop Believing." Talk about perfect timing! I got up that last hill and saw the finish line. Then, I heard Tim's parents cheering from the sidelines. It was awesome. I had done it. I had ran thirteen point freakin' one miles and still had a smile on my face!
I crossed the finished line and turned to watch Leah come in. That girl had a fire in her eyes. I could tell her knee was hurting her, but she wasn't about to let it beat her! I was cheesing so big when we got our medals. Seriously, I know it's silly, but that medal meant so much to me. I was just so darn proud of myself! Somehow in the madness, we were able to find Tracy-- she broke her previous time and came in at 2:10! At this point, we couldn't find Jaime, but we knew she had to be around somewhere. We eventually found her when we met up with everyone and that girl rocked that half in 2:17! We were all so pumped from our accomplishment!
It was now time to wait for Tim to finish. His mom had been getting text updates and we knew he was getting close. We went over to the gates near the finish line to watch folks come in. I saw some amazing runners that day. Some people came in looking tired, but strong. Others were barely moving. I was so worried for Tim. I was just hoping that he had a good race. When we finally saw him, I got teary-eyed. He had worked so hard for this. Getting up at 4am for training runs in the summer. Running in rain, heat, etc. He ended up finishing his first marathon in 4:04:28. I am so proud of him!
It really was one of the most fantastic days ever. Seriously, I wouldn't have wanted my first half marathon to go any other way. To be so lucky to be able to do it with some awesome ladies that are not only family, but super awesome friends, was just a bonus. Seeing Tim accomplish a goal that less than 1% of the population even attempt was amazing. Best. Parade. Ever.
So, now what? Well, I think Jaime has it all planned out for us! :) I cannot wait to run another half marathon. It was so much fun! Who would have thought I would have reached the point that I actually found running to be so much fun? Sure, training runs aren't always great, but all that hard work really does pay off in the end. And I really like the the big medal!!! :)
Thanks for everyone that read this blog and sent me well wishes, etc. Big time thank you to Tim's family for coming out and cheering us on-- it was great to see you all at the finish line! Tracy's girls made us all awesome signs that I will keep forever! Also, thanks to Laura for being a crazy person and coming to the race after traveling the day before. I feel so blessed to have such wonderful folks supporting me- thank you so much!
Time: 2:23:08
Wow. What an amazing experience. Running the Rock n Roll St. Louis Half Marathon was so much fun, it's hard to wrap my brain around everything I want to say about it!
We headed up to St. Louis the day before the race for the Expo and packet pick up. The Expo was a bit overwhelming because it was so crowded and a bit confusing. There were a total of 5 us racing and we all decided to try signing up with a pace team to help us during the race. Leah, Jaime and I signed up with the 2:20, which I thought would be good for me. I wasn't sure I could come in at the time, but I felt I was closer to 2:20, than 2:30, which was my initial goal when I started training. I figured that if I was unable to keep up with Leah and Jaime, at least I would have the pace team to distract me.
That night after we settled into the hotel room, I was so nervous! I pulled out all my clothes, got my shoes ready, chattered on and on to Tim-- which didn't really help him much because he was nervous about his first Full Marathon, too! I'm guessing that we only got maybe 4 hours of sleep that night. Ridiculous!
Tim and I woke up around 4am and stayed in bed talking. We were so restless and nervous! We were pretty wired and just waiting for the alarm to go off. At 5am, "Born to Run" came blaring out of Tim's cell phone. It was time to get up and get going.
After a small breakfast, we met up with everyone at the lobby. I was happy to see that my sister, Laura, was able to join us to see us take off! We headed towards the start line looking for Tracy and Jaime. As we got closer, we could hear the music and see the thousands of people already in the corrals. I had a brief moment of panic-- what the heck was I doing??!?!?
I really didn't want to leave Tim. I knew he was nervous and I just wanted to stay with him as long as I could. Maybe I just needed him, too. Either way, at a certain point it was time to go our separate ways. The corral wait wasn't too bad. We found our pace team easily and they had giant beach balls, music, etc. Heck, we even saw a smurf while waiting! It was a nice distraction before the start. At one point, they played "Beautiful Day" by U2. Again, I thought of Tim because this is one of his go to songs for running. When they released corral 7, I cheered him on and hoped he would have a great run!
So, Tim's corral was released, then Tracy's. Then, corral 13! I was pumped at this point and just wanted to get moving. We moved up to the start line and were released-- my first half marathon had begun!
I stayed with Jaime and Leah for the first couple of miles. It was difficult to stay with them because of all the people and the course had so many turns. We were way ahead of the pace team, so I figured I would just stick with them as long as I could and then get with the pace team at some point. I knew that Jaime and Leah were going to smoke the 2:20 time, so I just found a comfortable pace and enjoyed the atmosphere-- which was fantastic! I have never had so much fun during a race. All the cheerleaders and signs were great distractions and really motivating. It is so amazing that all these people came out to cheer on a bunch of crazy runners so early on a Sunday morning!
Some of my favorite signs:
Chaff Now, Brag Later
Run Like a Kenyon
Worst. Parade. Ever.
I don't know you, but I believe in you!
Toenails are overrated.
Just keeping swimming, swimming, swimming (My favorite- I hope Jaime saw it!)
Some of favorite cheerleaders/bands, etc.:
The Mimes cracked me up!
The guy that was hitting a cooking pot with a spoon (I saw him at 2 different spots on the route!)
The star-shaped arch that I ran through and the girls snapping photos.
The little kids that gave me high fives. (Awesome.)
The pirates at one of the water stations.
The guys giving out beer at mile 11.
The band near the end playing "Don't Stop Believing" right before I had to go up one more hill!
I could go on and on about things I saw during the race. There was so much inspiration all around me that it was almost overwhelming. One lady had a shirt on that said it was her first half marathon after beating cancer. I saw numerous shirts that said they were running for someone. Whenever I felt tired or questioned my sanity, I would look up and see a sign or a shirt that would remind that I just needed to keep on going.
A little bit after mile 7, Leah suddenly appeared at my side. She was having issues with her knee and told Jaime to go on ahead. I was happy to have some company at that point because I was starting to lose the pace team. We continued on together, walking the water stations (which were like Splashin' Safari-- water going everywhere!) and kept one another motivated. At one point, I was afraid we were being passed by the the 2:30 pace team, but was happy to see that it was the other 2:20 team. I felt confident that I would be in between the two times. At mile 12, I decided I had to just push through and get that race over with! The band that was playing right before the last hill was blaring "Don't Stop Believing." Talk about perfect timing! I got up that last hill and saw the finish line. Then, I heard Tim's parents cheering from the sidelines. It was awesome. I had done it. I had ran thirteen point freakin' one miles and still had a smile on my face!
I crossed the finished line and turned to watch Leah come in. That girl had a fire in her eyes. I could tell her knee was hurting her, but she wasn't about to let it beat her! I was cheesing so big when we got our medals. Seriously, I know it's silly, but that medal meant so much to me. I was just so darn proud of myself! Somehow in the madness, we were able to find Tracy-- she broke her previous time and came in at 2:10! At this point, we couldn't find Jaime, but we knew she had to be around somewhere. We eventually found her when we met up with everyone and that girl rocked that half in 2:17! We were all so pumped from our accomplishment!
It was now time to wait for Tim to finish. His mom had been getting text updates and we knew he was getting close. We went over to the gates near the finish line to watch folks come in. I saw some amazing runners that day. Some people came in looking tired, but strong. Others were barely moving. I was so worried for Tim. I was just hoping that he had a good race. When we finally saw him, I got teary-eyed. He had worked so hard for this. Getting up at 4am for training runs in the summer. Running in rain, heat, etc. He ended up finishing his first marathon in 4:04:28. I am so proud of him!
It really was one of the most fantastic days ever. Seriously, I wouldn't have wanted my first half marathon to go any other way. To be so lucky to be able to do it with some awesome ladies that are not only family, but super awesome friends, was just a bonus. Seeing Tim accomplish a goal that less than 1% of the population even attempt was amazing. Best. Parade. Ever.
So, now what? Well, I think Jaime has it all planned out for us! :) I cannot wait to run another half marathon. It was so much fun! Who would have thought I would have reached the point that I actually found running to be so much fun? Sure, training runs aren't always great, but all that hard work really does pay off in the end. And I really like the the big medal!!! :)
Thanks for everyone that read this blog and sent me well wishes, etc. Big time thank you to Tim's family for coming out and cheering us on-- it was great to see you all at the finish line! Tracy's girls made us all awesome signs that I will keep forever! Also, thanks to Laura for being a crazy person and coming to the race after traveling the day before. I feel so blessed to have such wonderful folks supporting me- thank you so much!
Friday, October 21, 2011
The Final Countdown!
Omg. Omg. Omg. Race day this Sunday!
This week has been a roller coaster of emotions! One moment I am excited, the next a ball of nerves! I'll just be sitting there and then BAM, it hits me- I will be running Thirteen Point Freakin' One miles this weekend!
A plethora (one of my favorite fifty cent words) of fears and concerns have come to mind throughout the week. My biggest concern (at the moment!) has been all the darn people. There are over 20,000 runners! Yikes! I'm afraid with all the excitement I'll run too fast in the beginning and burn out. Everyone that I have talked to that run half and full marathons say to just relax and try not to burn too much energy trying to pass folks- just relax and find my groove. Hopefully, I will remember the advice Sunday morning!
Also, hills are still a concern for me. Every time I am I running up a hill, every fiber of my being is telling me stop. My legs are screaming, "What the frak do you think you are doing? Stop it!" I have this ongoing debate my head:
Runner Beeje: Come on, just a bit longer. You got this!
Hill Hater Beeje: Oh, who are you kidding? You can't do this! Just give up already, that's what you really want to do anyway!
Runner Beeje: No, I can do this. Just run to that light post, there ya go, now to that mailbox...
Hill Hater Beeje: Whatever, girl! You are crazy-- look at how much more you have to go!
Runner Beeje: I can do this! Ugh! I hate freakin' hills!
In the end, I do make it up it, but I swear I tell myself that I won't every darn time. Sometimes it takes me a few minutes to recover from the hill. I'm not sure what kills me the most, the actual physical activity or the arguing with myself!
This week I was determined to get a few runs in. Nothing too hard, just enough to keep my head in the game. I was, however, determined to run up cemetery hill one last time before the race. That hill has been beating me lately, and I just needed to remind myself that I could do it. Tim wasn't feeling well, so I went on a short run solo. It is so hard for me to run alone, especially the first mile, but once I got to that hill, I was dead set on making it up it without those negative thoughts holding me back. I am happy to say that is exactly what I did. Sure, I was breathing hard and I probably had a grimace on my face, but I made it up that darn hill. It eased my jitters a bit about hills on the race course, but I won't be too upset if the course is hill free!
Oddly enough, I no longer have the not finishing fear. I firmly believe that I will finish the half even it means I'm crawling to that finish line! I have trained for this for months now; I know that I can run the miles. It's just a matter of enjoying it at this point. I want to have fun, take in all the inspiration around me. Celebrate the fact that I can do this. Earlier this year I wouldn't have considered myself a runner. I was wrong. I may not run fast or look like your typical running chic, but none of that matters to me anymore. I am a runner. Period.
Soon after the race I will do a recap blog of how awesome the half went! I will try not to drag my feet on it. If any of you want to track me during the race, you can go this website:
http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/st-louis
My bib number is 15777 and Tim's is 9049. I am not sure how it works, it just said they will have tracking available on the website. Most of you will get a text from me at some point though!
Again, I have to thank everyone that has given me well wishes, words of advice and encouragement. Seriously, I appreciate it! My friends are probably annoyed with all of my running talk-- thanks for putting up with me and believing in me during those times I didn't.
Special shout out to the Schemonia Clan-- that card made my day! Thanks!
Also, I was obviously lucky when I married Tim because he is so awesome, but I also became a part of a family that is so supportive and wonderful! I so look forward to hearing cheers from THE BEST cheerleaders ever!
Of course, none of this running business would not have even happened for me if it wasn't for Tim. You rock, babes! I know you are going to kick those 26.2 miles in the butt! I can't wait to hug you after-- I don't care how sweaty you are!
Leah and Jaime-- This is what we have been working for! All of those hot days are going to pay off for us this weekend! We got this! Running with you guys has been so fun (yes, I said fun!) and I hope we can keep it up even after the race. Who knows what we can train for next...
Tracy-- You are one inspirational lady! I just know you are going to do awesome Sunday! I only wish I could cheer you on at the finish! I'll get there as soon as I can though!
Okay. Time to ease the mind a bit. AHHHH! I'm so EXCITED!!!!
This week has been a roller coaster of emotions! One moment I am excited, the next a ball of nerves! I'll just be sitting there and then BAM, it hits me- I will be running Thirteen Point Freakin' One miles this weekend!
A plethora (one of my favorite fifty cent words) of fears and concerns have come to mind throughout the week. My biggest concern (at the moment!) has been all the darn people. There are over 20,000 runners! Yikes! I'm afraid with all the excitement I'll run too fast in the beginning and burn out. Everyone that I have talked to that run half and full marathons say to just relax and try not to burn too much energy trying to pass folks- just relax and find my groove. Hopefully, I will remember the advice Sunday morning!
Also, hills are still a concern for me. Every time I am I running up a hill, every fiber of my being is telling me stop. My legs are screaming, "What the frak do you think you are doing? Stop it!" I have this ongoing debate my head:
Runner Beeje: Come on, just a bit longer. You got this!
Hill Hater Beeje: Oh, who are you kidding? You can't do this! Just give up already, that's what you really want to do anyway!
Runner Beeje: No, I can do this. Just run to that light post, there ya go, now to that mailbox...
Hill Hater Beeje: Whatever, girl! You are crazy-- look at how much more you have to go!
Runner Beeje: I can do this! Ugh! I hate freakin' hills!
In the end, I do make it up it, but I swear I tell myself that I won't every darn time. Sometimes it takes me a few minutes to recover from the hill. I'm not sure what kills me the most, the actual physical activity or the arguing with myself!
This week I was determined to get a few runs in. Nothing too hard, just enough to keep my head in the game. I was, however, determined to run up cemetery hill one last time before the race. That hill has been beating me lately, and I just needed to remind myself that I could do it. Tim wasn't feeling well, so I went on a short run solo. It is so hard for me to run alone, especially the first mile, but once I got to that hill, I was dead set on making it up it without those negative thoughts holding me back. I am happy to say that is exactly what I did. Sure, I was breathing hard and I probably had a grimace on my face, but I made it up that darn hill. It eased my jitters a bit about hills on the race course, but I won't be too upset if the course is hill free!
Oddly enough, I no longer have the not finishing fear. I firmly believe that I will finish the half even it means I'm crawling to that finish line! I have trained for this for months now; I know that I can run the miles. It's just a matter of enjoying it at this point. I want to have fun, take in all the inspiration around me. Celebrate the fact that I can do this. Earlier this year I wouldn't have considered myself a runner. I was wrong. I may not run fast or look like your typical running chic, but none of that matters to me anymore. I am a runner. Period.
Soon after the race I will do a recap blog of how awesome the half went! I will try not to drag my feet on it. If any of you want to track me during the race, you can go this website:
http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/st-louis
My bib number is 15777 and Tim's is 9049. I am not sure how it works, it just said they will have tracking available on the website. Most of you will get a text from me at some point though!
Again, I have to thank everyone that has given me well wishes, words of advice and encouragement. Seriously, I appreciate it! My friends are probably annoyed with all of my running talk-- thanks for putting up with me and believing in me during those times I didn't.
Special shout out to the Schemonia Clan-- that card made my day! Thanks!
Also, I was obviously lucky when I married Tim because he is so awesome, but I also became a part of a family that is so supportive and wonderful! I so look forward to hearing cheers from THE BEST cheerleaders ever!
Of course, none of this running business would not have even happened for me if it wasn't for Tim. You rock, babes! I know you are going to kick those 26.2 miles in the butt! I can't wait to hug you after-- I don't care how sweaty you are!
Leah and Jaime-- This is what we have been working for! All of those hot days are going to pay off for us this weekend! We got this! Running with you guys has been so fun (yes, I said fun!) and I hope we can keep it up even after the race. Who knows what we can train for next...
Tracy-- You are one inspirational lady! I just know you are going to do awesome Sunday! I only wish I could cheer you on at the finish! I'll get there as soon as I can though!
Okay. Time to ease the mind a bit. AHHHH! I'm so EXCITED!!!!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Trying to stay confident...
One Week!
I have started and stopped writing a blog all week. I am in a running funk and I am having difficulty finding the words to explain how I am feeling.
The half marathon is a week away and I don't know what is wrong with me. I honestly feel like I was more prepared a month ago than I am now. It's maddening. The past few weeks have been frustrating. The week before last, Tim was sick and I let that impact my running. Then, last weekend I did a long run and a long bike ride, and tweaked my right calf. During one run with everyone, my calves hurt so bad, I had to freakin' walk-- going up cemetery hill! Ugh! That hill has been my weakness all summer and I have never stopped and walked when running up it. Complete blow to my confidence. To make matters worse, on Saturday, I so struggled during our last long training run. I was cold. I felt I was going too fast. I struggled on that stupid hill again (shout out to Tracy if you read this- thanks for the words of encouragement!). I couldn't keep up with everyone during most of the run. I had a side stitch that would not subside during the last mile. After all was said and done, I was just happy the stupid run was over. A month ago, I ran 10 miles and felt like I could conquer the world after. This go round, I felt miserable. Physically, I was fine (besides the usual aches and pains), but mentally I felt beaten.
Another blow to my confidence came when I was looking to buy something new to wear for the race. I hate running clothes. They are not made for this chunky monkey and they just make me feel like I have all 60lbs that I lost right back on me. Seriously, it's bad enough that my hydration belt totally highlights my spare tire, so I don't need clothes that are going to give me more rolls, not to mention more chaffing issues. I know I don't look like the typical skinny-minny runner, but surely I am missing an insider secret for comfy running clothes for chics that have some chunky bits, right?
With all of that silliness going on, every now and then a fear about actual race day creeps into my head. This week, the big fear I have (since I somehow forgot how to do them!) are HILLS. Seriously, if the route has too many hills, I fear I will let them mentally beat before I even have to physically go up them. I don't want to be mad at myself over any choice I make during the half marathon. I don't want to be disappointed in my time or if I struggle. I just feel defeated- and we haven't even ran the darn race yet! I just want to be proud that I am even doing it! But for whatever reason, I already feel crappy about it. I know that it doesn't make any sense. Really, I KNOW this. I can't really explain why I feel like this- I just do. Hopefully on race day, I won't.
So, yeah, I'm a girl with self-esteem issues this week. Talk about bad timing! I am just going to have to continue to remind myself that I'm just doing this to DO IT and HAVE FUN. That was the plan from the beginning for me and I just need to stick with it. The fact of the matter is, a few years ago, this girl wouldn't have even ran a mile if someone was chasing her, and now I run 10+ miles because I want to! I just have to remember that I am strong and I can do it!
The greatest battle is not physical but psychological. The demons telling us to give up when we push ourselves to the limit can never be silenced for good. They must always be answered by the quiet the steady dignity that simply refuses to give in. COURAGE. WE ALL SUFFER. KEEP GOING.
-- I <3 to run Facebook page
I have started and stopped writing a blog all week. I am in a running funk and I am having difficulty finding the words to explain how I am feeling.
The half marathon is a week away and I don't know what is wrong with me. I honestly feel like I was more prepared a month ago than I am now. It's maddening. The past few weeks have been frustrating. The week before last, Tim was sick and I let that impact my running. Then, last weekend I did a long run and a long bike ride, and tweaked my right calf. During one run with everyone, my calves hurt so bad, I had to freakin' walk-- going up cemetery hill! Ugh! That hill has been my weakness all summer and I have never stopped and walked when running up it. Complete blow to my confidence. To make matters worse, on Saturday, I so struggled during our last long training run. I was cold. I felt I was going too fast. I struggled on that stupid hill again (shout out to Tracy if you read this- thanks for the words of encouragement!). I couldn't keep up with everyone during most of the run. I had a side stitch that would not subside during the last mile. After all was said and done, I was just happy the stupid run was over. A month ago, I ran 10 miles and felt like I could conquer the world after. This go round, I felt miserable. Physically, I was fine (besides the usual aches and pains), but mentally I felt beaten.
Another blow to my confidence came when I was looking to buy something new to wear for the race. I hate running clothes. They are not made for this chunky monkey and they just make me feel like I have all 60lbs that I lost right back on me. Seriously, it's bad enough that my hydration belt totally highlights my spare tire, so I don't need clothes that are going to give me more rolls, not to mention more chaffing issues. I know I don't look like the typical skinny-minny runner, but surely I am missing an insider secret for comfy running clothes for chics that have some chunky bits, right?
With all of that silliness going on, every now and then a fear about actual race day creeps into my head. This week, the big fear I have (since I somehow forgot how to do them!) are HILLS. Seriously, if the route has too many hills, I fear I will let them mentally beat before I even have to physically go up them. I don't want to be mad at myself over any choice I make during the half marathon. I don't want to be disappointed in my time or if I struggle. I just feel defeated- and we haven't even ran the darn race yet! I just want to be proud that I am even doing it! But for whatever reason, I already feel crappy about it. I know that it doesn't make any sense. Really, I KNOW this. I can't really explain why I feel like this- I just do. Hopefully on race day, I won't.
So, yeah, I'm a girl with self-esteem issues this week. Talk about bad timing! I am just going to have to continue to remind myself that I'm just doing this to DO IT and HAVE FUN. That was the plan from the beginning for me and I just need to stick with it. The fact of the matter is, a few years ago, this girl wouldn't have even ran a mile if someone was chasing her, and now I run 10+ miles because I want to! I just have to remember that I am strong and I can do it!
The greatest battle is not physical but psychological. The demons telling us to give up when we push ourselves to the limit can never be silenced for good. They must always be answered by the quiet the steady dignity that simply refuses to give in. COURAGE. WE ALL SUFFER. KEEP GOING.
-- I <3 to run Facebook page
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Anxiety
18 days to go!
Okay, I have flaked out on keeping up with the blog. The past two weeks have been pretty much more of the same: run, run and run some more. When I'm not running, I'm thinking about it. If I'm not thinking about it, I'm talking about it. I am probably annoying the heck out of everyone! I certainly don't mean to be obsessing, but I just can't help it!
In regards to the training, I've been pretty consistent. The weekend before last, I ran 10 miles with Jaime and Leah. It was a rainy morning to start, but we got pretty lucky and it only rained on us during the last couple of miles. This past weekend I had to run with Tim and we did 13 miles again. We tried to mimic race day conditions by starting closer to actual race time and also trying to pace for a 2:30 finish. I was able to shave off 6 minutes from my previous 13 mile time, finishing it at 2:22. I was pretty pleased with that, but those last few miles still hurt so freakin' bad and I totally turned into a monster on Tim. He was trying so hard to encourage me and I just got upset with myself and took it out on him- I'm sorry, Tim! I'm not sure if it's mental or if my legs are just not strong enough to eek out a few more miles. Regardless, I was pretty miserable afterwards and once again doubting myself. Tim pointed out that all miles were under the pace suggested for a 2:30 finish, so there is no reason to doubt that I can do it. And the thing is, I do believe I can. It's just when I'm actually running those last few miles, I let all the negative invade my thoughts. It's pretty stupid considering it hits me after I have already ran 10 freakin' miles. I mean, seriously, what is 3 more? Ugh, it's just so frustrating!
I have started having anxiety dreams and thoughts about the actual race. What if it rains? What if we have one of those hotter than usual October days? What if I hurt myself before the race? What if it's a "lead legs" day for me? The "lead legs" thing is my biggest concern. Some days I just feel heavy and sluggish when running. Every step I make requires so much effort. If that happens on race day, I'm not so sure I can push through for 13.1 miles. I have to stop thinking about it so much because it is driving me crazy!
On a more positive note, Leah and Jaime rocked their long run-- 13.1 in 2:17! I am super proud of them and I hope I can keep up with those speedsters during the race! You know I will try my hardest! :)
Funny sign of encouragement:
Click HERE for some other funny spectator race signs. I think I am going to try to come up with a funny one for Tim!
Okay, I have flaked out on keeping up with the blog. The past two weeks have been pretty much more of the same: run, run and run some more. When I'm not running, I'm thinking about it. If I'm not thinking about it, I'm talking about it. I am probably annoying the heck out of everyone! I certainly don't mean to be obsessing, but I just can't help it!
In regards to the training, I've been pretty consistent. The weekend before last, I ran 10 miles with Jaime and Leah. It was a rainy morning to start, but we got pretty lucky and it only rained on us during the last couple of miles. This past weekend I had to run with Tim and we did 13 miles again. We tried to mimic race day conditions by starting closer to actual race time and also trying to pace for a 2:30 finish. I was able to shave off 6 minutes from my previous 13 mile time, finishing it at 2:22. I was pretty pleased with that, but those last few miles still hurt so freakin' bad and I totally turned into a monster on Tim. He was trying so hard to encourage me and I just got upset with myself and took it out on him- I'm sorry, Tim! I'm not sure if it's mental or if my legs are just not strong enough to eek out a few more miles. Regardless, I was pretty miserable afterwards and once again doubting myself. Tim pointed out that all miles were under the pace suggested for a 2:30 finish, so there is no reason to doubt that I can do it. And the thing is, I do believe I can. It's just when I'm actually running those last few miles, I let all the negative invade my thoughts. It's pretty stupid considering it hits me after I have already ran 10 freakin' miles. I mean, seriously, what is 3 more? Ugh, it's just so frustrating!
I have started having anxiety dreams and thoughts about the actual race. What if it rains? What if we have one of those hotter than usual October days? What if I hurt myself before the race? What if it's a "lead legs" day for me? The "lead legs" thing is my biggest concern. Some days I just feel heavy and sluggish when running. Every step I make requires so much effort. If that happens on race day, I'm not so sure I can push through for 13.1 miles. I have to stop thinking about it so much because it is driving me crazy!
On a more positive note, Leah and Jaime rocked their long run-- 13.1 in 2:17! I am super proud of them and I hope I can keep up with those speedsters during the race! You know I will try my hardest! :)
Funny sign of encouragement:
Click HERE for some other funny spectator race signs. I think I am going to try to come up with a funny one for Tim!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
"I got under 30!!!"
Days until Half: 30
Miles Ran: 11.12
Longest Run: 5 Miles
Last week was one of those weeks that started off poorly, but then ended fabulously!
After the 13 mile run, I had the gnarliest blister on the side of my big toe. It was so bad, I was unsure how I was going to wear shoes to work! I did everything I could for the silly thing, but it was just not willing to work with me. I got up early on Tuesday morning thinking I would at least be able to get a 3 mile run in. Sadly, the minute I put my shoes on, I knew it wasn't going to happen. I was so annoyed. Which only made Tim smile and say, "Did you ever think you would be mad because you WANTED to run, but couldn't?" He makes a valid point. I can't lie, I'm pretty impressed with myself that I actually enjoy running more so than hating it. Don't get me wrong, I still have my moments where I think "Why am I doing this?!?" (I think this a lot when do the 3 miles fast runs!), but for the most part, I do like running. See, just typing that is tripping me out!
I decided that I was going to at least run 3 miles on Wednesday. All of us had signed up for the Apple Festival 5k and I just felt like I had to get some running in before it! By this point, the blister had been drained (gross) and I was no longer feeling a constant pain when walking on it. Leah needed to get a run in, so we met up at her house in the morning. Let me tell ya, Leah was fired up and ready to run! I managed to stay with her for maybe the first mile, but then I was just chasing after her! Three quarters the way in, my toe was throbbing and I was regretting my decision. I finished the 3 miles in 31:05, which was the fastest time I've gotten for that distance, so I was pretty pleased despite the toe hurting a bit. I think the combo of having Tim set a pace for me and "chasing" after Leah helped me push a bit more than I do normally in the mornings. After all, it is 5am!
Tim and I were both pretty lazy for the rest of the week. Tim was suffering from training fatigue and well, my toe was just really messing me up. I started to get a bit nervous about the 5k. I don't really know why I do them. I usually worry about them the night before and honestly, I hate running 3.1 miles as fast as I can! I'm slow! I like those nice even paced runs that I can comfortably breathe during. I continue to do them though because I set a goal of getting my time under 30 minutes by the end of the year. I mean, people twice my age manage to run 5k well under 30 minutes! So can I! Right?
My previous 5k times in 2011:
34:59 SpringOut 5k
34:02 St. Patty's 5k
33:41 Undy 5k
33:20 Nutrition 5k
32:14 Dawg Jog
31:59 Miner's 5k
34:22 Grace Race 5k
As you can see, I shaved a bit off each time. Well, not at the Grace Race one, but that was so hot that I am just glad I finished without passing out! Anyway, I have always set the goal in my head to always try to beat my previous best time. It's easier to just compete with myself than trying to "race" everyone else. The goal for the Apple Fest 5k was to beat 31:59 even if just by a few seconds, although I was really hoping to see 30:XX instead of a 31:XX.
On race day, I told myself to just try to stick with Jaime and Leah for the first mile. I figured if I could do that, it would help my time. I can't lie, those girls ran so fast that first mile! I clocked a 9:04 mile running with them-- and that is with Jaime running into a human roadblock just seconds after the race began! They are rockstars! I was able to stay with them for the first mile and half, after that I tailed them until the hill on 20th Street. At that point, I stepped/stumbled on a rock and landed awkwardly on my darn toe. Ugh. I don't know if it was because it was hurting or if it was just mentally messing with me, but I had to slow down. I willed myself not to walk because I knew if I walked, I wouldn't start running again. I looked up and saw that they weren't too terribly far ahead and decided to just keep them in my sight. As long as I could see their ponytails, I was fine.
As we got closer to the finish line, I could hear Tim's mom cheering Leah and Jaime on. I had jolt of energy. I knew I was running faster than before because I could hear the cheers for them! When I was close enough to see the clock, someone was standing in front of it so all I could see was that I was at 29 something. Twenty-nine what? 29:00? 29:55? What!?! Then as I crossed the finish line, I saw it: 29:47! Squeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee! I was so happy I even managed to shout, "I came in under 30!" I was so darn proud of myself. I looked over at Tim who had water and a banana for me. He was beaming. He said, "You are awesome! I knew you could do it!"
So, yeah, I felt pretty great for the rest of the day. I just feel like for the first time in my life, I am actually seeing hard work pay off. I know that I would not have gotten this far without some awesome folks to train with. Leah and Jaime have helped me stay focused and I do think they are big reason I enjoy running a lot more. And Tim. Well, Tim puts up with me when I have those bad runs and reminds me that it's all worth it.
One goal accomplished and one to go! Bring on those 13.1 miles! I have no fear of quitting now because I've worked too hard to let fear beat me!
Miles Ran: 11.12
Longest Run: 5 Miles
Last week was one of those weeks that started off poorly, but then ended fabulously!
After the 13 mile run, I had the gnarliest blister on the side of my big toe. It was so bad, I was unsure how I was going to wear shoes to work! I did everything I could for the silly thing, but it was just not willing to work with me. I got up early on Tuesday morning thinking I would at least be able to get a 3 mile run in. Sadly, the minute I put my shoes on, I knew it wasn't going to happen. I was so annoyed. Which only made Tim smile and say, "Did you ever think you would be mad because you WANTED to run, but couldn't?" He makes a valid point. I can't lie, I'm pretty impressed with myself that I actually enjoy running more so than hating it. Don't get me wrong, I still have my moments where I think "Why am I doing this?!?" (I think this a lot when do the 3 miles fast runs!), but for the most part, I do like running. See, just typing that is tripping me out!
I decided that I was going to at least run 3 miles on Wednesday. All of us had signed up for the Apple Festival 5k and I just felt like I had to get some running in before it! By this point, the blister had been drained (gross) and I was no longer feeling a constant pain when walking on it. Leah needed to get a run in, so we met up at her house in the morning. Let me tell ya, Leah was fired up and ready to run! I managed to stay with her for maybe the first mile, but then I was just chasing after her! Three quarters the way in, my toe was throbbing and I was regretting my decision. I finished the 3 miles in 31:05, which was the fastest time I've gotten for that distance, so I was pretty pleased despite the toe hurting a bit. I think the combo of having Tim set a pace for me and "chasing" after Leah helped me push a bit more than I do normally in the mornings. After all, it is 5am!
Tim and I were both pretty lazy for the rest of the week. Tim was suffering from training fatigue and well, my toe was just really messing me up. I started to get a bit nervous about the 5k. I don't really know why I do them. I usually worry about them the night before and honestly, I hate running 3.1 miles as fast as I can! I'm slow! I like those nice even paced runs that I can comfortably breathe during. I continue to do them though because I set a goal of getting my time under 30 minutes by the end of the year. I mean, people twice my age manage to run 5k well under 30 minutes! So can I! Right?
My previous 5k times in 2011:
34:59 SpringOut 5k
34:02 St. Patty's 5k
33:41 Undy 5k
33:20 Nutrition 5k
32:14 Dawg Jog
31:59 Miner's 5k
34:22 Grace Race 5k
As you can see, I shaved a bit off each time. Well, not at the Grace Race one, but that was so hot that I am just glad I finished without passing out! Anyway, I have always set the goal in my head to always try to beat my previous best time. It's easier to just compete with myself than trying to "race" everyone else. The goal for the Apple Fest 5k was to beat 31:59 even if just by a few seconds, although I was really hoping to see 30:XX instead of a 31:XX.
On race day, I told myself to just try to stick with Jaime and Leah for the first mile. I figured if I could do that, it would help my time. I can't lie, those girls ran so fast that first mile! I clocked a 9:04 mile running with them-- and that is with Jaime running into a human roadblock just seconds after the race began! They are rockstars! I was able to stay with them for the first mile and half, after that I tailed them until the hill on 20th Street. At that point, I stepped/stumbled on a rock and landed awkwardly on my darn toe. Ugh. I don't know if it was because it was hurting or if it was just mentally messing with me, but I had to slow down. I willed myself not to walk because I knew if I walked, I wouldn't start running again. I looked up and saw that they weren't too terribly far ahead and decided to just keep them in my sight. As long as I could see their ponytails, I was fine.
As we got closer to the finish line, I could hear Tim's mom cheering Leah and Jaime on. I had jolt of energy. I knew I was running faster than before because I could hear the cheers for them! When I was close enough to see the clock, someone was standing in front of it so all I could see was that I was at 29 something. Twenty-nine what? 29:00? 29:55? What!?! Then as I crossed the finish line, I saw it: 29:47! Squeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee! I was so happy I even managed to shout, "I came in under 30!" I was so darn proud of myself. I looked over at Tim who had water and a banana for me. He was beaming. He said, "You are awesome! I knew you could do it!"
So, yeah, I felt pretty great for the rest of the day. I just feel like for the first time in my life, I am actually seeing hard work pay off. I know that I would not have gotten this far without some awesome folks to train with. Leah and Jaime have helped me stay focused and I do think they are big reason I enjoy running a lot more. And Tim. Well, Tim puts up with me when I have those bad runs and reminds me that it's all worth it.
One goal accomplished and one to go! Bring on those 13.1 miles! I have no fear of quitting now because I've worked too hard to let fear beat me!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
I ran 13 miles and survived- barely.
Total Miles: 24
Long Run: 13 Miles!
I ran 13 freakin’ miles on Sunday! I ran for two and half hours straight!
But, I totally have mixed feelings about it.
But, I totally have mixed feelings about it.
First off, running the 13 miles was completely my idea. Tim and I were running early on Wednesday morning and I was just thinking about how good it felt to be up running with the stars shining. I felt peaceful, happy. I was thinking about how awesome I felt after running 11 miles and how according to the training plan, I should be ready for a half. I wanted to see if I could run 13 miles. I wanted to see where I would stand if I had to race it that weekend. I suggested it to Leah and Jaime, they weren’t as crazed about it as I was, but agreed to give it a go. So, the plan was set.
Saturday evening, I started to regret the decision that Miss Positive BJ had earlier in the week. I had a small blister on my toe (not from running, but from a cute pair of shoes I’ll never wear again!) and I was just feeling kind of sluggish. For the first time ever, on Sunday when my alarm went off, I considered bailing. Seriously. Despite my angst, I forced myself out of bed. I wasn’t feeling like eating anything, so I forced down some sport beans and a bottle of water. This was probably Mistake #1.
Heading over to Leah’s I was trying to tell myself that all would be fine. I would try to shake off the negative and just run. It really wasn’t that hard once we got going. It was 9/11, so we talked about where were 10 years ago when we heard about the Towers, how Jaime’s sons are now learning about it, etc. Although the content was heavy, it was a good conversation that helped a few miles pass by. Tim mapped out a route for us that included some hills. We know there will be hills in St. Louis, so it seemed like a good idea to try to incorporate some in our long runs. Ugh. I will forever hate hills. I will tell you this, running up hills must be a Johnson trait. Leah rocked those bad boys! She looked so at ease—just like Tim!
So, Mistake #2 came along about 6 or 7 miles in. I have been trying to do gels when running, but I have had stomach issues with them, so I wait as long as I can to take them. I think this time, I waited too long. I was pretty tired when I took it out and it took me a bit to get it down. It helped for a bit, but at about mile 11, all went to hell. First, I got a side stitch. Arg. Then, my legs started hurting. Boo. Then, the self-doubt crept in. Dang. The self-doubt is my number one running killer. I just wanted to stop at mile 11. What was the point of running if I was going to feel so miserable while doing it?
So, Jaime starts to push it, Leah is a bit behind her and I’m a few steps back considering just stopping altogether. But I didn’t. I just kept my head forward, looking at Jaime’s swinging pony tail and told myself that I would not stop until she said were at 13 miles. I got control of my side stitch, but my legs were on fire. I felt like I hand cinder blocks tied to my feet. When she said she had reached 13, I ran to where she was and then felt like I hit a wall. Walking was hard and I felt a bit dizzy. Even after all those darn runs in the heat, this was by far the worse shape I had physically been in after running. At one point, I stopped to stretch my legs and I felt so dizzy, I had to sit down on the sidewalk. Leah gave me some sport beans and I drank some water. I wasn't down long before I was feeling better, but I was disappointed with myself. I know better. I should have prepared myself for that run and I didn’t. Annoying.
Now, don't get me wrong, I am extremely proud that I ran 13 miles. I am also super proud of Jaime and Leah. We did it! We now know we are able to run 13 miles and live to tell about it. :P But, I have to look at the mistakes I made and rectify them in the future. I know that I felt great after running 11 miles a few weeks ago. Heck, I even felt like I could have kept on running! I know that I'm not always going to feel fantastic after a run, but I do think in this case I didn't exactly set myself up for a great experience.
Again, I am reminded that this experience is a learning process. I do feel a bit more confident about the half now that I know that I can run that many miles. Really, I think my goal for the race is to enjoy it. Sure, I know it's gonna hurt some, but I honestly want to have some fun that day, too!
Quotes & Inspiration:
Again, I am reminded that this experience is a learning process. I do feel a bit more confident about the half now that I know that I can run that many miles. Really, I think my goal for the race is to enjoy it. Sure, I know it's gonna hurt some, but I honestly want to have some fun that day, too!
Quotes & Inspiration:
Thursday, September 8, 2011
So much more...
Week ???
Total Miles: 19 miles*
Long Run: 11 miles
This week was odd. It was a holiday weekend and we went camping at Current River with some friends, so the running schedule was shifted. Technically, I only ran 8 miles last week. But if you add the long run I did on Monday to the mix, it was 19 miles. So... um, yeah.
I usually put a few notes about my run when I sync my watch, but this week I only put one note, and that was on Wednesday's 3 mile run. It says: Stupid, darn ouchie side stitch. That run was awesome until the last half mile. I was running along at a PR pace when out of nowhere I felt a sharp pain high up on my right side. I tried to push through, but it eventually got the best of me. I had to stop running for a minute or so to get the pain to subside. I eventually finished out the last bit of the run, but I won't lie, I felt pretty defeated. It's not that I care how fast I was going or anything. It was just the fact that I stopped. Although I truly feel I had a valid reason to do so, it still frustrated me that I just couldn't push through.
So, Wednesday was the last time I ran before going out of town for the camping trip. I had told Leah and Jaime that Tim and I were going to just run on Monday because the temperature was suppose to drop dramatically by then and we thought that would be better running conditions. I was thrilled when I heard that they decided to wait, too! Again, it's not that I don't enjoy running with Tim, but I just find the time flies by when running with them. Since there are 3 of us, someone can usually be talking, and the talking is a great distraction! Seriously, I know I have said this before, but I love you guys for letting me run with ya!
Monday morning Tim and I headed on over to Leah's house bright and early. Wait, rephrase: dim and early! It's so dark in the mornings now! So dark that Tim has bought a headlamp light to wear when we run during the week! Anyway, the temperature was great- chilly even! Good for running, but we were all a little chilled before we got started. We intended to just run 10 miles, but ended up being so close to 11 at the end, that we just went for it. No lie, it felt pretty awesome to just say, "Eh, we're close to 11 miles, let's just do it!" Seriously, this time last year, heck, less than 6 months ago, I would have laughed at you if you told me I would be willing (and able!) to run 11 miles!
Every week just feels like a new accomplishment. I feel like I just did something impossible. I know to some folks, running 11 miles is nothing, but to me, it means so much. It's me running away from the fat girl I once was. It's shaking off some (not all--yet) of the insecurities I have about my body and self. It's reminding myself that I am strong and that if I can push through one more mile, I can push through anything. Sure, some runs are going to hurt. My legs may ache after the long ones, but I am doing it! Every time I decide run, I am making the decision to do something good for myself... and that isn't something I have always been able to do.
I've had some folks comment on how much they enjoy reading my blog. Thanks! It's awesome to have people supporting me through this journey! I appreciate the well wishes very much!
Quotes & Inspiration
"Your biggest challenge isn't someone else. It's the ache in your lungs and the burning in your legs, and the voice inside you that yells 'CAN'T", but you don't listen. You just push harder. And then you hear the voice whisper 'can'. And you discover that the person you thought you were is no match for the one you really are." Author Unknown
Total Miles: 19 miles*
Long Run: 11 miles
This week was odd. It was a holiday weekend and we went camping at Current River with some friends, so the running schedule was shifted. Technically, I only ran 8 miles last week. But if you add the long run I did on Monday to the mix, it was 19 miles. So... um, yeah.
I usually put a few notes about my run when I sync my watch, but this week I only put one note, and that was on Wednesday's 3 mile run. It says: Stupid, darn ouchie side stitch. That run was awesome until the last half mile. I was running along at a PR pace when out of nowhere I felt a sharp pain high up on my right side. I tried to push through, but it eventually got the best of me. I had to stop running for a minute or so to get the pain to subside. I eventually finished out the last bit of the run, but I won't lie, I felt pretty defeated. It's not that I care how fast I was going or anything. It was just the fact that I stopped. Although I truly feel I had a valid reason to do so, it still frustrated me that I just couldn't push through.
So, Wednesday was the last time I ran before going out of town for the camping trip. I had told Leah and Jaime that Tim and I were going to just run on Monday because the temperature was suppose to drop dramatically by then and we thought that would be better running conditions. I was thrilled when I heard that they decided to wait, too! Again, it's not that I don't enjoy running with Tim, but I just find the time flies by when running with them. Since there are 3 of us, someone can usually be talking, and the talking is a great distraction! Seriously, I know I have said this before, but I love you guys for letting me run with ya!
Monday morning Tim and I headed on over to Leah's house bright and early. Wait, rephrase: dim and early! It's so dark in the mornings now! So dark that Tim has bought a headlamp light to wear when we run during the week! Anyway, the temperature was great- chilly even! Good for running, but we were all a little chilled before we got started. We intended to just run 10 miles, but ended up being so close to 11 at the end, that we just went for it. No lie, it felt pretty awesome to just say, "Eh, we're close to 11 miles, let's just do it!" Seriously, this time last year, heck, less than 6 months ago, I would have laughed at you if you told me I would be willing (and able!) to run 11 miles!
Every week just feels like a new accomplishment. I feel like I just did something impossible. I know to some folks, running 11 miles is nothing, but to me, it means so much. It's me running away from the fat girl I once was. It's shaking off some (not all--yet) of the insecurities I have about my body and self. It's reminding myself that I am strong and that if I can push through one more mile, I can push through anything. Sure, some runs are going to hurt. My legs may ache after the long ones, but I am doing it! Every time I decide run, I am making the decision to do something good for myself... and that isn't something I have always been able to do.
I've had some folks comment on how much they enjoy reading my blog. Thanks! It's awesome to have people supporting me through this journey! I appreciate the well wishes very much!
Quotes & Inspiration
"Your biggest challenge isn't someone else. It's the ache in your lungs and the burning in your legs, and the voice inside you that yells 'CAN'T", but you don't listen. You just push harder. And then you hear the voice whisper 'can'. And you discover that the person you thought you were is no match for the one you really are." Author Unknown
Monday, August 29, 2011
Double Digits!!!
Week 11
Total Miles: 23 Miles
Long Run: 10 Miles!!!
This week was bittersweet. I started off with a horrible case of the "I don't wanna's," which is never a good mindset to have. I had a bit of a childish tantrum on Tuesday morning, so we didn't run. Poor Tim. I know he could not anticipate the monster that came out of me at 5 o'clock in the morning and I am so grateful that he forgives easily. Despite being a brat, I managed to pull myself together and get my miles in, but they were slow and mentally hard for me. I like to say that I love running all the time, but sometimes I think I just love running when I am done with it! I'm not sure if that makes sense or not. I mean, after I run my required miles I feel awesome, but sometimes those few minutes before I start the run, I hate it with a passion! I do notice now that it's really just the first and last mile that I remember during certain runs. The first mile I'm just trying to will myself to get through it, the last mile I am soaring with the anticipation of being done. I love that last mile.
On top of the high-speed come apart I had early in the week, the blister monster decided to rear it's ugly head. I had the gnarliest blister on the side of my left foot. At first, it just looked bad, but the night before the long run, it was also hurting a bit. So, I struggled with that for a bit. Should I run on it? Should I try doing something with? Grr. In the end, I thought it would be best to just run on it and fix it afterwards. That seemed to work fine, because it's not hurting anymore and it no longer looks terrible. My feet are far from pretty though!
The long run this week was 10 miles. Not gonna lie, 10 was the scariest number because it's the first double digit mile run and after getting through 10 miles of a half, all that is left is a 5k. So, 10 miles was a big deal. I felt good the morning of the run. I slept well, the air was a bit cooler and I knew I would be running with Leah and Jaime (seriously, running with those ladies just helps so much!). When I got to Leah's, I was happily surprised to see that Jaime's sister, Tracy, would be joining us as well. She has ran a few half marathons, so having her along just felt like an extra boost of motivation! So we started our run (along with Tim running ahead of us and once again, running circles around us!) and in the end we rocked it! Our pace was faster than the last time we ran the 9 miles together and I think in the end, we were all feeling pretty good. I had a few moments of struggle, but I think at some point, maybe we al had that "just not feeling it" moment. Well, maybe not Tim and Tracy. Tim just glided along and Tracy was always in front looking pretty comfortable. The last mile was torture on my foot, but I managed to get through it with a little encouragement from Tim and watching Jaime's happiness of running 10 miles the last couple of minutes of running.
So, double digit miles accomplished. The week may have started out bitter, but running 10 miles made it pretty darn sweet in the end! I cannot believe that I can run 10 miles! Squee!
Side Note:
I just have to say that it is pretty darn cool to be a part of a family that is so inspiring and motivating. It's great to be able to share this journey with Leah and Jaime. They are rockin' the training with me and it's gonna be awesome to do the race with them! Also, I know Tracy can break her PR during this half, she has the fire in her and I only wish we could be there to cheer her on at the end-- we are hoping to be no more than 30 minutes behind! I give Tim a lot of props, but he is the best, so there are never enough words to describe how motivating he is to me.
Quotes and Inspiration:
The perfect run- The wind at your back, the sun in front of you, and your friends by your side. -Aaron Douglas Trimble
Total Miles: 23 Miles
Long Run: 10 Miles!!!
This week was bittersweet. I started off with a horrible case of the "I don't wanna's," which is never a good mindset to have. I had a bit of a childish tantrum on Tuesday morning, so we didn't run. Poor Tim. I know he could not anticipate the monster that came out of me at 5 o'clock in the morning and I am so grateful that he forgives easily. Despite being a brat, I managed to pull myself together and get my miles in, but they were slow and mentally hard for me. I like to say that I love running all the time, but sometimes I think I just love running when I am done with it! I'm not sure if that makes sense or not. I mean, after I run my required miles I feel awesome, but sometimes those few minutes before I start the run, I hate it with a passion! I do notice now that it's really just the first and last mile that I remember during certain runs. The first mile I'm just trying to will myself to get through it, the last mile I am soaring with the anticipation of being done. I love that last mile.
On top of the high-speed come apart I had early in the week, the blister monster decided to rear it's ugly head. I had the gnarliest blister on the side of my left foot. At first, it just looked bad, but the night before the long run, it was also hurting a bit. So, I struggled with that for a bit. Should I run on it? Should I try doing something with? Grr. In the end, I thought it would be best to just run on it and fix it afterwards. That seemed to work fine, because it's not hurting anymore and it no longer looks terrible. My feet are far from pretty though!
The long run this week was 10 miles. Not gonna lie, 10 was the scariest number because it's the first double digit mile run and after getting through 10 miles of a half, all that is left is a 5k. So, 10 miles was a big deal. I felt good the morning of the run. I slept well, the air was a bit cooler and I knew I would be running with Leah and Jaime (seriously, running with those ladies just helps so much!). When I got to Leah's, I was happily surprised to see that Jaime's sister, Tracy, would be joining us as well. She has ran a few half marathons, so having her along just felt like an extra boost of motivation! So we started our run (along with Tim running ahead of us and once again, running circles around us!) and in the end we rocked it! Our pace was faster than the last time we ran the 9 miles together and I think in the end, we were all feeling pretty good. I had a few moments of struggle, but I think at some point, maybe we al had that "just not feeling it" moment. Well, maybe not Tim and Tracy. Tim just glided along and Tracy was always in front looking pretty comfortable. The last mile was torture on my foot, but I managed to get through it with a little encouragement from Tim and watching Jaime's happiness of running 10 miles the last couple of minutes of running.
So, double digit miles accomplished. The week may have started out bitter, but running 10 miles made it pretty darn sweet in the end! I cannot believe that I can run 10 miles! Squee!
Side Note:
I just have to say that it is pretty darn cool to be a part of a family that is so inspiring and motivating. It's great to be able to share this journey with Leah and Jaime. They are rockin' the training with me and it's gonna be awesome to do the race with them! Also, I know Tracy can break her PR during this half, she has the fire in her and I only wish we could be there to cheer her on at the end-- we are hoping to be no more than 30 minutes behind! I give Tim a lot of props, but he is the best, so there are never enough words to describe how motivating he is to me.
Quotes and Inspiration:
The perfect run- The wind at your back, the sun in front of you, and your friends by your side. -Aaron Douglas Trimble
Monday, August 22, 2011
Keep on keepin' on...
Week 11
Total Miles: 21.29
Long Run: 9 miles
This week sucked. Yes, last week’s blog was about how awesome running was, yada, yada, blah, blah, blah. Well, I must have jinxed myself because this week was just terrible.
Honestly, the first 2 runs of the week weren’t that bad. The nice weather held off through Tuesday, so the 5 miles to the lake and back were actually pleasant. Wednesday was a bit warmer, but I managed to get through it. Thursday though… sigh. Well, it was the worst run I’ve had in months. We were doing the hill by the cemetery when I started to feel a little icky. My stomach was knotted up and it was so humid out, I was having troubles getting my breathing right. I had just gotten to the peak of the hill when I felt like I was going to throw up. And that is what I did. Well, sort of. I yakked up the water I had consumed and then dry-heaved. It was awful.
The question then became, what to do? I hadn’t gotten to mile 2, so should I just turn around and head home? Walk? I was so mad at myself that I just wanted to scream. Tim tried offering suggestions, but I was too frustrated to listen. I decided to keep running, albeit, super slow. When we got to the lake entrance, I knew there was no way I would make it back up that hill if we went down it, so we turned around and headed back. Tim was having a hard time because of his legs, I was frustrated, and it was just a mess! Needless to say, it wasn’t the best way to start a work day.
After the not so hot run on Thursday, the very thought of running 9 miles was just daunting. Making me even less inclined to go was the fact that I wouldn’t be running with Leah & Jaime this week because of schedules, etc. Tim had 13 to run, so when he got up to get started, I argued with myself for a good 10 minutes. Seriously, how is it that one crap run can just take me back to the “I don’t wanna” stage in the process? Will I ever get past that? It feels like for every step forward, I go two steps back! Grrr. Anyway, I managed to get up and run, but it was the longest 9 miles ever. Tim is great to run with for encouragement , etc., but I really missed Leah and Jaime. Unlike super runner Tim, they are doing all this for the first time just like me, so we have similar thoughts, complaints. With Tim, I feel I’m just extra whiny or something. I will say this though, that last sweaty mile would not have gotten done had it not been for him encouraging me.
So, I can’t lie and say that the ol’ confidence isn’t shaken a bit. I’m not looking forward to logging any miles this week. But I will. I just got to keep on keepin' on.
Side Note:
One of the scheduling issues that I had with the ladies this week was that Jaime participated in the True Grit 5k Challenge with her son, Landon and her Mom, Esther. It was a rainy, wet course and little Landon got 2nd place! Awesome!
Quotes and Inspiration:
The miles don’t go away; they patiently wait for us to run them. –Quote on I <3 to run Facebook page.
Tim shared this video with me last week and it made me cry a bit. I can't fathom the hunger and the pressure Olympic athletes feel, but I think this video shows what true determination is all about and how awesome it is to have supporters.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Confidence
Week 10
Total Miles: 22.28 Miles
Long Run: 9.28 miles!!!!!!!!!
This week rocked. The weather was fantastic during the week and I am pretty sure Tim and I are now adjusted to getting up at 5am. We ran to Murphy Lake and back on both Monday and Thursday, and I am happy to say that those hills aren’t getting the best of me! Do I like hills like Tim likes hills? No way. That is just not gonna happen! But, I am not going to let them beat me!
All week long, I had been dreading the 9 mile run. As we keep tacking more miles on, the scarier that number just gets to me. The weather didn’t help either. Friday night the news kept saying there could be showers or thunderstorms in the morning on Saturday, so we decided to postpone until Sunday. This bothered me simply because I felt like I was giving up. You see, as a former fatty that never exercised, I am all too familiar with saying, “I’ll do it Monday” or I’ll start next week” and then Monday/next week would come and go. I could come up with any excuse to get me out of sweating. So, putting off the run felt oddly familiar to me. When I got up on Saturday and saw that the weather was just fine, I was so very annoyed! I beat myself up about it for a few hours and with some encouragement from Tim and some friends, I just shook it off and told myself no matter what I was going to run 9 miles on Sunday!
And I so rocked those 9 miles! We had the best weather for a long run. Clear skies, cool temps-- it was awesome! I didn’t have my Garmin because Tim’s was dead, so I’m not sure what my pace was the first few miles. I’ll take a guess that it was my typical slow-unsure-I-can-really-do-this pace. J Midway through, I was feeling pretty good. I took my green apple gel (which is the best tasting one that I have had so far!) and kept on a runnin’. We hit nine a bit before Leah’s house and instead of stopping; we just kept on running until we got there. I felt fantastic afterwards and I think Jaime and Leah felt great, too! This run made me feel like 13.1 miles is completely doable! I also feel like we are going to rock our 2:30 goal!
So, confident isn’t a feeling I’m all that familiar with. Those that know me well know that I’m pretty unsure of myself most of the time. Heck, next week’s blog could very well be a whinefest about how I can’t do it, etc. But, at this very moment, I am so thrilled with my progress that I feel like I could go out and run 13.1 miles tomorrow ending with a big ol’ smile on my face! I still remember the first time I ran for 2 minutes when we were doing Couch to 5k. I remember thinking there is no way I could ever do anymore than those 2 long minutes. It’s so awesome to be where I am now and to look forward to where I am going to be if I keep working for it.
Side Note:
Tim had a whopping 20 miles to run, but he was able to meet us at Leah’s house. He was quite spry—even playful! We would be running a little behind him and then we would lose him for a bit. A few minutes later, he would pop up behind us! So, he was literally running circles around us! When he hit 17 miles, he turned to us and said, “All I have is a 5k to do. I got this.” Then he took off like he was racing a 5k. I tell ya, he never stops amazing me!
Quote of the week:
It never gets easier. You just get better.
--Unknown (saw it on a poster.)
Total Miles: 22.28 Miles
Long Run: 9.28 miles!!!!!!!!!
This week rocked. The weather was fantastic during the week and I am pretty sure Tim and I are now adjusted to getting up at 5am. We ran to Murphy Lake and back on both Monday and Thursday, and I am happy to say that those hills aren’t getting the best of me! Do I like hills like Tim likes hills? No way. That is just not gonna happen! But, I am not going to let them beat me!
All week long, I had been dreading the 9 mile run. As we keep tacking more miles on, the scarier that number just gets to me. The weather didn’t help either. Friday night the news kept saying there could be showers or thunderstorms in the morning on Saturday, so we decided to postpone until Sunday. This bothered me simply because I felt like I was giving up. You see, as a former fatty that never exercised, I am all too familiar with saying, “I’ll do it Monday” or I’ll start next week” and then Monday/next week would come and go. I could come up with any excuse to get me out of sweating. So, putting off the run felt oddly familiar to me. When I got up on Saturday and saw that the weather was just fine, I was so very annoyed! I beat myself up about it for a few hours and with some encouragement from Tim and some friends, I just shook it off and told myself no matter what I was going to run 9 miles on Sunday!
And I so rocked those 9 miles! We had the best weather for a long run. Clear skies, cool temps-- it was awesome! I didn’t have my Garmin because Tim’s was dead, so I’m not sure what my pace was the first few miles. I’ll take a guess that it was my typical slow-unsure-I-can-really-do-this pace. J Midway through, I was feeling pretty good. I took my green apple gel (which is the best tasting one that I have had so far!) and kept on a runnin’. We hit nine a bit before Leah’s house and instead of stopping; we just kept on running until we got there. I felt fantastic afterwards and I think Jaime and Leah felt great, too! This run made me feel like 13.1 miles is completely doable! I also feel like we are going to rock our 2:30 goal!
So, confident isn’t a feeling I’m all that familiar with. Those that know me well know that I’m pretty unsure of myself most of the time. Heck, next week’s blog could very well be a whinefest about how I can’t do it, etc. But, at this very moment, I am so thrilled with my progress that I feel like I could go out and run 13.1 miles tomorrow ending with a big ol’ smile on my face! I still remember the first time I ran for 2 minutes when we were doing Couch to 5k. I remember thinking there is no way I could ever do anymore than those 2 long minutes. It’s so awesome to be where I am now and to look forward to where I am going to be if I keep working for it.
Side Note:
Tim had a whopping 20 miles to run, but he was able to meet us at Leah’s house. He was quite spry—even playful! We would be running a little behind him and then we would lose him for a bit. A few minutes later, he would pop up behind us! So, he was literally running circles around us! When he hit 17 miles, he turned to us and said, “All I have is a 5k to do. I got this.” Then he took off like he was racing a 5k. I tell ya, he never stops amazing me!
Quote of the week:
It never gets easier. You just get better.
--Unknown (saw it on a poster.)
Monday, August 8, 2011
Hungry Hippo Takes on Hills!
Week 9
Total Miles: 19.65miles
Long Run*: 5 miles
*This weeks training called for running a 10k. We decided to run Lake Murphysboro to give us a hill challenge instead. Good stuff.
This past week was an excellent week! With the exception of Wednesday, the morning runs were not all that bad. The weather was cooler on Tuesday, so we decided we would do "cemetery hill." I hate that hill! It's the hill on Illinois Avenue heading to the lake and it sucks. I managed to do it, but there were some not so nice words coming out of my mouth. Wednesday was miserably hot; I was grateful it was only a 3 mile run-- even Tim got a bit whiny during it! Thursday was another 5 mile run and a bit cooler. We had obnoxious teenagers drive past a couple of times that shouted out "Run faster!" Tim referred to them as "cheerleaders." Um, no. I know some fantastic cheerleaders and those jerks were just being annoying.
Running at the lake wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be. I really appreciate having Leah & Jaime to run with. It helps me get up and get going even when every bone in my body is telling me I don't wanna! Just planning the time we meet makes me feel more committed to it. Plus, it helps having someone running up a steep hill with you that doesn't care that you are mumbling to yourself or breathing so hard that you sound like Darth Vader! We totally rocked that run though and with the exception of my calves being a bit tight, I didn't feel nearly as sore as I did the first time I ran there. Next week is 9 miles. Nine. I don't have any thoughts on that one yet, except, EEEK!
I am a freakin' hungry, hungry hippo! I'm not sure what is going on with me lately, but I have to get a handle on my excessive eating! You would think with all this running, I would lose a little bit of weight, however, that can't happen if I'm eating everything in my sight afterwards! I've been struggling with the whole weight loss thing again. I still have about twenty pounds to lose, but I just can't seem to stick to tracking my food intake, yada, yada. I know dropping a bit of weight would only help with the running, so I don't know what my deal is. This week I promised myself I would write down everything I eat and try not to make silly decisions (like right now, I am desperately trying to not eat a candy bar!) that I know lead to eating poorly or too much. I just need to find some balance, which is really hard for a foodie!
So, Tim had to run 18 miles on Saturday. He even met up with us the lake to do some of the miles with us. That boy is inspiring! I am so proud of him! I can't wait to cheer him on as he crosses the finish line at 26.2 miles!
Quote of the week:
"You're gonna have to face that you're a runner."
Timothy Johnson, Future Marathoner & the Best Husband in the World
Total Miles: 19.65miles
Long Run*: 5 miles
*This weeks training called for running a 10k. We decided to run Lake Murphysboro to give us a hill challenge instead. Good stuff.
This past week was an excellent week! With the exception of Wednesday, the morning runs were not all that bad. The weather was cooler on Tuesday, so we decided we would do "cemetery hill." I hate that hill! It's the hill on Illinois Avenue heading to the lake and it sucks. I managed to do it, but there were some not so nice words coming out of my mouth. Wednesday was miserably hot; I was grateful it was only a 3 mile run-- even Tim got a bit whiny during it! Thursday was another 5 mile run and a bit cooler. We had obnoxious teenagers drive past a couple of times that shouted out "Run faster!" Tim referred to them as "cheerleaders." Um, no. I know some fantastic cheerleaders and those jerks were just being annoying.
Running at the lake wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be. I really appreciate having Leah & Jaime to run with. It helps me get up and get going even when every bone in my body is telling me I don't wanna! Just planning the time we meet makes me feel more committed to it. Plus, it helps having someone running up a steep hill with you that doesn't care that you are mumbling to yourself or breathing so hard that you sound like Darth Vader! We totally rocked that run though and with the exception of my calves being a bit tight, I didn't feel nearly as sore as I did the first time I ran there. Next week is 9 miles. Nine. I don't have any thoughts on that one yet, except, EEEK!
I am a freakin' hungry, hungry hippo! I'm not sure what is going on with me lately, but I have to get a handle on my excessive eating! You would think with all this running, I would lose a little bit of weight, however, that can't happen if I'm eating everything in my sight afterwards! I've been struggling with the whole weight loss thing again. I still have about twenty pounds to lose, but I just can't seem to stick to tracking my food intake, yada, yada. I know dropping a bit of weight would only help with the running, so I don't know what my deal is. This week I promised myself I would write down everything I eat and try not to make silly decisions (like right now, I am desperately trying to not eat a candy bar!) that I know lead to eating poorly or too much. I just need to find some balance, which is really hard for a foodie!
So, Tim had to run 18 miles on Saturday. He even met up with us the lake to do some of the miles with us. That boy is inspiring! I am so proud of him! I can't wait to cheer him on as he crosses the finish line at 26.2 miles!
Quote of the week:
"You're gonna have to face that you're a runner."
Timothy Johnson, Future Marathoner & the Best Husband in the World
Monday, August 1, 2011
Just keep running, running, running...
Week 8
Total Miles: 20.20 miles
Long Run: 8 miles
In the month of July, I ran 80.17 miles. The fat girl from a few years ago that hated running is floored by this number. Seriously, I did that? I ran that much in one month? Heck yeah, I did!
This past week was a bit of a roller coaster for me. For the most part, I was fine and dandy with getting up at 5 am to run my miles. Morning running is getting easier for me and I think I even enjoy it a bit. It's nice to get up and run when the world is still quiet and there isn't too much to going on. Tim has been running with me and as most everyone knows, he's not much of a talker. Morning running makes him even less inclined to speak, so most of the time, it's just me saying something from time to time-- typically I am complaining about how long the miles are feeling or how hot it is, etc. He is quite the sport to tolerate my crankiness so early in the day. On the short run day, I picked it up a bit and attempted some interval type training. It was nice to finish somewhat close to my PR 5k time because I do feel that if I ran a 5k now, I would be seriously slow. I am fairly consistent with my morning runs; first mile is pretty slow (I'm still waking up after all!) and then I continue to have negative splits for the following miles.
So, for whatever reason, the night before our long run, I was nervous. Nervous isn't really the right word. It's hard to explain. I was just doubting myself. It's silly because I had already ran 8 miles earlier in the summer, but for some reason, I had a mental block about it. I didn't really sleep well and I was just dreading it. We started running, and I kept looking at my watch to try to stay around a 11:40 pace because I was so sure that I would freakin' pass out if I tried to run any faster. Jaime noticed I was quiet, and I suppose for the first few miles I was because I was just so full of self doubt. I was a few feet behind Leah and Jaime and I was looking at them thinking about how they really looked like runners and I was the chubby girl just trying to keep up. I know this kind of thinking is silly, but I'm just being honest. I am unsure of myself sometimes. At one point, I looked over at Tim and he just smiled at me. The crazy boy had already ran 8 miles before meeting up with us, and he was smiling? After that, I just decided to stop thinking about it and just run. Heck, if he could run 16 miles with a grin, I could do 8, right?
I tell myself I'm not very competitive. However, I think this weekend I realized that I am competing against myself when I let all the doubt take over. I am the queen of psyching myself out. I would like to say that I won't have a day like this again anytime soon, but that is unlikely. Heck, we plan on running the lake next week and I so have a mental block when it comes to hills! I just need to find a way to gag the voice in my head that tells me that I can't do it. That I am still too fat to run or that I should just stop. I can do this. I AM doing this. Maybe I need to be like Stuart Smallay (from SNL) and do a mantra in the mirror: I am a runner, I am fast enough, and doggone it, it's okay if people pass me! hehe
Quote of the Week:
"Have you seen Finding Nemo? I tell myself to be like Dory and to just keep running, running, running..."
Jaime Huppert, future Half Marathoner
Total Miles: 20.20 miles
Long Run: 8 miles
In the month of July, I ran 80.17 miles. The fat girl from a few years ago that hated running is floored by this number. Seriously, I did that? I ran that much in one month? Heck yeah, I did!
This past week was a bit of a roller coaster for me. For the most part, I was fine and dandy with getting up at 5 am to run my miles. Morning running is getting easier for me and I think I even enjoy it a bit. It's nice to get up and run when the world is still quiet and there isn't too much to going on. Tim has been running with me and as most everyone knows, he's not much of a talker. Morning running makes him even less inclined to speak, so most of the time, it's just me saying something from time to time-- typically I am complaining about how long the miles are feeling or how hot it is, etc. He is quite the sport to tolerate my crankiness so early in the day. On the short run day, I picked it up a bit and attempted some interval type training. It was nice to finish somewhat close to my PR 5k time because I do feel that if I ran a 5k now, I would be seriously slow. I am fairly consistent with my morning runs; first mile is pretty slow (I'm still waking up after all!) and then I continue to have negative splits for the following miles.
So, for whatever reason, the night before our long run, I was nervous. Nervous isn't really the right word. It's hard to explain. I was just doubting myself. It's silly because I had already ran 8 miles earlier in the summer, but for some reason, I had a mental block about it. I didn't really sleep well and I was just dreading it. We started running, and I kept looking at my watch to try to stay around a 11:40 pace because I was so sure that I would freakin' pass out if I tried to run any faster. Jaime noticed I was quiet, and I suppose for the first few miles I was because I was just so full of self doubt. I was a few feet behind Leah and Jaime and I was looking at them thinking about how they really looked like runners and I was the chubby girl just trying to keep up. I know this kind of thinking is silly, but I'm just being honest. I am unsure of myself sometimes. At one point, I looked over at Tim and he just smiled at me. The crazy boy had already ran 8 miles before meeting up with us, and he was smiling? After that, I just decided to stop thinking about it and just run. Heck, if he could run 16 miles with a grin, I could do 8, right?
I tell myself I'm not very competitive. However, I think this weekend I realized that I am competing against myself when I let all the doubt take over. I am the queen of psyching myself out. I would like to say that I won't have a day like this again anytime soon, but that is unlikely. Heck, we plan on running the lake next week and I so have a mental block when it comes to hills! I just need to find a way to gag the voice in my head that tells me that I can't do it. That I am still too fat to run or that I should just stop. I can do this. I AM doing this. Maybe I need to be like Stuart Smallay (from SNL) and do a mantra in the mirror: I am a runner, I am fast enough, and doggone it, it's okay if people pass me! hehe
Quote of the Week:
"Have you seen Finding Nemo? I tell myself to be like Dory and to just keep running, running, running..."
Jaime Huppert, future Half Marathoner
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Hobbit Feet
Week 7
Total Miles: 19.0
Long Run: 7 miles
This week I was pretty on target with all the training workouts despite the insane heat and humidity. I hate to wish summer away, but I cannot wait until the cooler temps that fall will bring! I just think it will make running so much easier!
So, this whole running thing has really made a huge impact on my feet. My feet aren't pretty to begin with. I was sadly blessed with what I would refer to as Hobbit feet. It's never really bothered me though, I mean, they are feet. How much time does one really spend looking at them? However, running has taken them to Ugly Troll Feet status. From calluses on my toes and heals to the blisters that have just popped up, they are now hideous. I shouldn't even complain about them. Tim has lost toenails because of running! That has not happened to me yet! Thank goodness!
The long run was actually harder for me this week. Honestly, if it wasn't for my running buddies (Leah, Jaime & Tim- you guys are awesome!) I am not so sure I would have done it. I just could not wait for it to be over with! The last 2 miles felt like I was running in sand. Mentally, I was thinking, "How in the flip am I going to be able to run more than this?!" It was terrible. I know it's hot outside, and that is making an impact, but it's just frustrating. When I have a crappy run, I just question myself and let the fears seep in: being last, being slow, looking like a wet rat (this is more of a reality than a fear), not finishing... Tim tries to tell me to trust the training and not worry about all of those things. I never said I wanted to run 13.1 miles as fast as I could! I just want to finish it!
And after I accomplish that, I am getting a darn pedicure!
Total Miles: 19.0
Long Run: 7 miles
This week I was pretty on target with all the training workouts despite the insane heat and humidity. I hate to wish summer away, but I cannot wait until the cooler temps that fall will bring! I just think it will make running so much easier!
So, this whole running thing has really made a huge impact on my feet. My feet aren't pretty to begin with. I was sadly blessed with what I would refer to as Hobbit feet. It's never really bothered me though, I mean, they are feet. How much time does one really spend looking at them? However, running has taken them to Ugly Troll Feet status. From calluses on my toes and heals to the blisters that have just popped up, they are now hideous. I shouldn't even complain about them. Tim has lost toenails because of running! That has not happened to me yet! Thank goodness!
The long run was actually harder for me this week. Honestly, if it wasn't for my running buddies (Leah, Jaime & Tim- you guys are awesome!) I am not so sure I would have done it. I just could not wait for it to be over with! The last 2 miles felt like I was running in sand. Mentally, I was thinking, "How in the flip am I going to be able to run more than this?!" It was terrible. I know it's hot outside, and that is making an impact, but it's just frustrating. When I have a crappy run, I just question myself and let the fears seep in: being last, being slow, looking like a wet rat (this is more of a reality than a fear), not finishing... Tim tries to tell me to trust the training and not worry about all of those things. I never said I wanted to run 13.1 miles as fast as I could! I just want to finish it!
And after I accomplish that, I am getting a darn pedicure!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Sweaty Betty
Week 7 (Modified)
Total Miles: 14.76
Long Run: 7.75
My goodness it was crazy hot this past week! Heat indexes were above 110 for almost 3 days in a row! Crazy. This meant I would be running at the Rec. Ugh. I'm not sure if there is anyway to make running less fun, well, maybe a treadmill. Running around the rec makes me insanely aware of every single second. I look at my watch constantly and I even get annoyed with the music that pops up on my mp3 player. It makes me terribly cranky. Poor Tim. He deserves an award for putting up with me!
I realize I have a lot of complaints when it comes to running. Heat, chafing, etc. Running seems to make me a whiner. So, this weeks annoyance is sweating. Man, I am a hot mess when I run! Just call me Sweaty Betty. As I was running at the Rec, I saw the sweat just flinging off of me! Disgusting! The sweat gets in my eyes, even in my ears! Even after I am done running, I am still a dripping mess, sometimes even hours later, I still have a layer of shine to me. I am not sure how I will look after 13.1 miles, but I am pretty sure it will not be pretty!
Regardless of the heat and sweat, Tim & I still met up with Leah and Jaime for our long run on Saturday. We weren't sure how far to go because we all had off weeks. In the end, we went a little over 7.5 miles, which means I'm getting closer to being back up to the 8 mile mark I had previously ran over a month ago. I'm actually feeling a lot better about increasing the miles now that I've been running with them. Just setting up a time to meet with them, makes it easier to do the run. They are awesome!
So, next week is a new week. My goal is to be more positive, less grumpy and more appreciative for the friends and family that inspire and encourage me. Without them, I wouldn't have even started this journey.
"Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm." Ralph Waldo Emerson
Total Miles: 14.76
Long Run: 7.75
My goodness it was crazy hot this past week! Heat indexes were above 110 for almost 3 days in a row! Crazy. This meant I would be running at the Rec. Ugh. I'm not sure if there is anyway to make running less fun, well, maybe a treadmill. Running around the rec makes me insanely aware of every single second. I look at my watch constantly and I even get annoyed with the music that pops up on my mp3 player. It makes me terribly cranky. Poor Tim. He deserves an award for putting up with me!
I realize I have a lot of complaints when it comes to running. Heat, chafing, etc. Running seems to make me a whiner. So, this weeks annoyance is sweating. Man, I am a hot mess when I run! Just call me Sweaty Betty. As I was running at the Rec, I saw the sweat just flinging off of me! Disgusting! The sweat gets in my eyes, even in my ears! Even after I am done running, I am still a dripping mess, sometimes even hours later, I still have a layer of shine to me. I am not sure how I will look after 13.1 miles, but I am pretty sure it will not be pretty!
Regardless of the heat and sweat, Tim & I still met up with Leah and Jaime for our long run on Saturday. We weren't sure how far to go because we all had off weeks. In the end, we went a little over 7.5 miles, which means I'm getting closer to being back up to the 8 mile mark I had previously ran over a month ago. I'm actually feeling a lot better about increasing the miles now that I've been running with them. Just setting up a time to meet with them, makes it easier to do the run. They are awesome!
So, next week is a new week. My goal is to be more positive, less grumpy and more appreciative for the friends and family that inspire and encourage me. Without them, I wouldn't have even started this journey.
"Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm." Ralph Waldo Emerson
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Friction Sucks
Week 6 (Modified)
(So, last week, I was wrong and actually did Week 5 of the training plan. This week, I did a modified version of the Week 6. Oops.)
Total Miles: 20 miles
Longest Distance: 6.67 miles
This week was a much better running week for me. I was more focused on my workouts and less of a whiner about them. Because of the holiday on Monday, I did get an extra run in because I didn't have my usual Zumba Tone workout that day.
So, the biggest issue I seem to be having with running is finding appropriate running clothes. And by appropriate, I mean I need shorts that won't freakin' ride up or cause horribly painful chafing on my darn thighs! I have never been comfortable wearing shorts when exercising, but with all the running and the heat, I have no other option. Capris just aren't cutting it. However, my luck with shorts has "rubbed me the wrong way" (I'm hilarious, I know). Friction sucks. In order to reign in my "thunder thighs," I am now forced to wear compression shorts under my running shorts. This is just annoying to me. I know I shouldn't care what I look like when I am running, but I do. It's like I'm still the fat girl trying to wear clothes that I shouldn't be wearing. I try to remind myself that 3 years ago, running wasn't even something I could do--heck, I didn't even WANT to do it--so I shouldn't be stressing about how I look. I am running. Period. Although, running comfortably would be nice!
I ran with Jaime for my long run this week. (We missed you, Leah!) We ran a little over 6.5 miles at a pretty slow & steady pace. I felt pretty good about the run because I wasn't completely drained after. I felt like I still had some go left in me. I am trying to focus on distance, but I can't lie and say I am not concerned with speed or time. I have this irrational fear of being the last person to cross the finish line. I know it's silly to think like that. I am hoping with time (and increase distances) my confidence will improve.
Heck, at this point if I can just run the 13.1 miles without my thighs rubbing off, I will be happy! :P
"A lot of people think they look slow, or fat, or sweaty. Don't let any of that stop you. Among runners, you are golden." Kara Goucher, Olympic Runner
(So, last week, I was wrong and actually did Week 5 of the training plan. This week, I did a modified version of the Week 6. Oops.)
Total Miles: 20 miles
Longest Distance: 6.67 miles
This week was a much better running week for me. I was more focused on my workouts and less of a whiner about them. Because of the holiday on Monday, I did get an extra run in because I didn't have my usual Zumba Tone workout that day.
So, the biggest issue I seem to be having with running is finding appropriate running clothes. And by appropriate, I mean I need shorts that won't freakin' ride up or cause horribly painful chafing on my darn thighs! I have never been comfortable wearing shorts when exercising, but with all the running and the heat, I have no other option. Capris just aren't cutting it. However, my luck with shorts has "rubbed me the wrong way" (I'm hilarious, I know). Friction sucks. In order to reign in my "thunder thighs," I am now forced to wear compression shorts under my running shorts. This is just annoying to me. I know I shouldn't care what I look like when I am running, but I do. It's like I'm still the fat girl trying to wear clothes that I shouldn't be wearing. I try to remind myself that 3 years ago, running wasn't even something I could do--heck, I didn't even WANT to do it--so I shouldn't be stressing about how I look. I am running. Period. Although, running comfortably would be nice!
I ran with Jaime for my long run this week. (We missed you, Leah!) We ran a little over 6.5 miles at a pretty slow & steady pace. I felt pretty good about the run because I wasn't completely drained after. I felt like I still had some go left in me. I am trying to focus on distance, but I can't lie and say I am not concerned with speed or time. I have this irrational fear of being the last person to cross the finish line. I know it's silly to think like that. I am hoping with time (and increase distances) my confidence will improve.
Heck, at this point if I can just run the 13.1 miles without my thighs rubbing off, I will be happy! :P
"A lot of people think they look slow, or fat, or sweaty. Don't let any of that stop you. Among runners, you are golden." Kara Goucher, Olympic Runner
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Moving forward...
Week 6 of Training
(I started Hal Higdon's Half Marathon Training awhile back. Before I went on vacation, I finished up Week 8. I am now going back to Week 6 just to get my mental confidence back.)
Total Miles: 16.91 miles
Longest Distance: 6 miles
Apparently going on vacation has made more of an impact on my motivation than I first thought. This past week has been HARD, both physically and mentally. Honestly, I think the mental aspect of running is what really messes me up. All it takes is one negative thought:
"This is stupid, why are you doing this?"
Yep, that is what got to me on Tuesday when I was running. I thought I could handle pushing myself in the heat, but soon found that I was gravely mistaken. For the first time in my short running life, I got sick. By sick, I mean I yakked. Yep, I will not be snacking on baby carrots for awhile. After spewing orange chunks (sorry for the visual), I decided that I was done. Some people may have felt better after throwing up, but all it did to me was piss me off and made me question the whole point of it.
Of course, I felt guilty when I got back home. Then Tim shows up after running a trillion miles and still smiling. I talked to him about how crappy running has been lately and he assured me that even he, Roadrunner Rock Star, has bad days. I just need to make a point to not let them get too me and just move forward.
On a happy note, my long run this week was great! Tim & I met his sister, Leah, and cousin, Jaime, to run on Saturday morning. They have signed up for the Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon and have also recently gotten into running. Running with them made me realize how awesome it is to run with folks that are having the same struggles, but continue to move forward. Jaime rolled her ankle the night before and still got up before 6am to run 6 miles. Leah has been battling blisters on her feet because of running, and there she was, bright-eyed and ready to knock out the miles. As we ran, we talked about how exciting the race is going to be, the problems we are having, the miles we still have to go...
Thirteen point one miles. Nuts. When I really think about it, I honestly can't wait. It's going to be awesome.
(I started Hal Higdon's Half Marathon Training awhile back. Before I went on vacation, I finished up Week 8. I am now going back to Week 6 just to get my mental confidence back.)
Total Miles: 16.91 miles
Longest Distance: 6 miles
Apparently going on vacation has made more of an impact on my motivation than I first thought. This past week has been HARD, both physically and mentally. Honestly, I think the mental aspect of running is what really messes me up. All it takes is one negative thought:
"This is stupid, why are you doing this?"
Yep, that is what got to me on Tuesday when I was running. I thought I could handle pushing myself in the heat, but soon found that I was gravely mistaken. For the first time in my short running life, I got sick. By sick, I mean I yakked. Yep, I will not be snacking on baby carrots for awhile. After spewing orange chunks (sorry for the visual), I decided that I was done. Some people may have felt better after throwing up, but all it did to me was piss me off and made me question the whole point of it.
Of course, I felt guilty when I got back home. Then Tim shows up after running a trillion miles and still smiling. I talked to him about how crappy running has been lately and he assured me that even he, Roadrunner Rock Star, has bad days. I just need to make a point to not let them get too me and just move forward.
On a happy note, my long run this week was great! Tim & I met his sister, Leah, and cousin, Jaime, to run on Saturday morning. They have signed up for the Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon and have also recently gotten into running. Running with them made me realize how awesome it is to run with folks that are having the same struggles, but continue to move forward. Jaime rolled her ankle the night before and still got up before 6am to run 6 miles. Leah has been battling blisters on her feet because of running, and there she was, bright-eyed and ready to knock out the miles. As we ran, we talked about how exciting the race is going to be, the problems we are having, the miles we still have to go...
Thirteen point one miles. Nuts. When I really think about it, I honestly can't wait. It's going to be awesome.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Because I Can
So, even though the longest distance I had ever run in my life was 3.5 miles, I decided back in January that I wanted to run a half marathon. I'm not sure what I was thinking at the time. I never really enjoyed running. I participate in 5k races and I find those fun, but I'm not competitive and I run pretty darn slow compared to most folks in my age group. I don't really like how red my face gets when I run, and I won't even tell you how gross sweating is. So, why decide to do a half? Why put myself through long training runs?
Because I can.
You see, about 4 years ago I was 60 plus pounds heavier than I am now. Walking 3 miles killed me. The thought of running was laughable. In 2008, the hubs and I decided to do the Couch to 5k training as a way to exercise together. Tim took to it like it was his destiny. I, on the other hand, did it just because if I didn't, I would have to find some other torturous exercise to replace it with. It took me over 6 months to actually complete the program. I would run for a few weeks, then get annoyed and stop for several weeks. I would watch Tim just run circles around the rec track. How could he love doing something so boring? Eventually, I picked a 5k to sign up for and forced myself to stick to the program. In March of 2009, I ran my first 5k in 35:24. I felt like a rock star!
I'd like to be able to say that after that, I loved running, but I did not. I still did 5k races and would run at least a few times a week, but I was never as serious as Tim was. I was jealous of him. I wanted to feel as awesome as he did after accomplishing a goal that took him months to train for. So, when I saw that there was going to be a Rock 'n' Roll Marathon in St. Louis, I decided I would go for the half. We signed up really early so I would have plenty of time to start/stop my training and would already have made the monetary commitment. No backing out now!
And here I am. Training for my first half marathon and I'm actually enjoying it. I'm not the fastest runner, in fact, I am pretty slow. But that doesn't bother me much. I figure as long my two legs are moving, I'm all good. See, that is the great thing about running: anyone can do it. It doesn't matter how big or small, fast or slow- it's just one foot in front of the other.
I can do this. I WILL do this.
Because I can.
You see, about 4 years ago I was 60 plus pounds heavier than I am now. Walking 3 miles killed me. The thought of running was laughable. In 2008, the hubs and I decided to do the Couch to 5k training as a way to exercise together. Tim took to it like it was his destiny. I, on the other hand, did it just because if I didn't, I would have to find some other torturous exercise to replace it with. It took me over 6 months to actually complete the program. I would run for a few weeks, then get annoyed and stop for several weeks. I would watch Tim just run circles around the rec track. How could he love doing something so boring? Eventually, I picked a 5k to sign up for and forced myself to stick to the program. In March of 2009, I ran my first 5k in 35:24. I felt like a rock star!
I'd like to be able to say that after that, I loved running, but I did not. I still did 5k races and would run at least a few times a week, but I was never as serious as Tim was. I was jealous of him. I wanted to feel as awesome as he did after accomplishing a goal that took him months to train for. So, when I saw that there was going to be a Rock 'n' Roll Marathon in St. Louis, I decided I would go for the half. We signed up really early so I would have plenty of time to start/stop my training and would already have made the monetary commitment. No backing out now!
And here I am. Training for my first half marathon and I'm actually enjoying it. I'm not the fastest runner, in fact, I am pretty slow. But that doesn't bother me much. I figure as long my two legs are moving, I'm all good. See, that is the great thing about running: anyone can do it. It doesn't matter how big or small, fast or slow- it's just one foot in front of the other.
I can do this. I WILL do this.
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