Less than 8 weeks until my first Marathon.
And I only really just started believing I can finish about 11 days ago.
Between training for the Marathon, being a mom to my 2 girls, work, the non-profit and planning Ladybug Run I am not left with a lot of time for blogging... but since this is a memory I'd like to preserve and I am always on the computer and NEVER journal anymore - this is the best I am going to do.
I have the Eugene Half marathon this weekend. I am excited to be running in the town I grew up in. My first 'race' there. Though I am not going into this weekend with any real expectations except;
1. HAVE FUN.
2. Don't get injured.
Hmm... that looks about right. That's it. If I PR, that would be icing on the cake - and I'd even be thrilled with a 5 second PR. But my end game is the marathon in a few weeks - so this is truly just a training run at a faster pace than I am planning on running the marathon.
Even my Marathon goals are pretty realistic.
1. Finish it. Just cross the finish line.
2. Anything under 5 hours would be lovely.
The sun is shining... I tried to run today, but my knee decided it was going to be a cross training day, and I also got into my acupuncturist for a 'tune-up.'
Can't wait to post pictures from the race- I will definitely be running with my camera and enjoying this race!
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Getting Back on the Wagon
Wow.. Forgive my LONG absence from the world of blogging. I think because I left this off my list of goals for 2013, I let it slide. But, I am getting back on the wagon. Let's get caught up with some random updates...
I began 2013 with a horrible cold that took me out of running for a whole week. When I came back, I began my marathon training plan. I decided I would make a plan by combining things I liked from the Train like a Mother, Hal Higdon, and a couple of others - starting from the mileage I was already doing. The problem with this, is even with only increasing my mileage 10% each week, I wasn't backing off every fourth week. Sooo, after my 15 mile run on Feb 16th (yes, what the heck was I thinking since my marathon is not until JUNE.) I experienced some knee pain that started in the middle of the night. I googled it the next morning and was pretty sure my pes anserine was inflamed I iced probably 5-6x right away. Took a week off, got acupuncture a few times, Chiro, and a Massage and cross trained and slowly began running again last week. I was able to run 8.5 on Saturday.. but by Monday I was still a little sore. I am having to foam roll and do dynamic stretches before each run and am doing my exercises each evening. I am nervous about Shamrock 15K next weekend. I am nervous about the Marathon already.. it suddenly seems close. I hate injuries. Or pre-injuries..
New plan is that I am going to follow Hal Higdon Novice 2 plan. I think I was being too aggressive. I just want to finish my first marathon without getting injured BEFORE actual race day. Plus I have LOTS of races after June that I want to be able to run.
Registration is open for www.ladybugrun.com.. We are busy getting everything planned to make this next years race even better than last year.. Some pretty awesome prizes are rolling in...
2013 Goals!!
I began 2013 with a horrible cold that took me out of running for a whole week. When I came back, I began my marathon training plan. I decided I would make a plan by combining things I liked from the Train like a Mother, Hal Higdon, and a couple of others - starting from the mileage I was already doing. The problem with this, is even with only increasing my mileage 10% each week, I wasn't backing off every fourth week. Sooo, after my 15 mile run on Feb 16th (yes, what the heck was I thinking since my marathon is not until JUNE.) I experienced some knee pain that started in the middle of the night. I googled it the next morning and was pretty sure my pes anserine was inflamed I iced probably 5-6x right away. Took a week off, got acupuncture a few times, Chiro, and a Massage and cross trained and slowly began running again last week. I was able to run 8.5 on Saturday.. but by Monday I was still a little sore. I am having to foam roll and do dynamic stretches before each run and am doing my exercises each evening. I am nervous about Shamrock 15K next weekend. I am nervous about the Marathon already.. it suddenly seems close. I hate injuries. Or pre-injuries..
New plan is that I am going to follow Hal Higdon Novice 2 plan. I think I was being too aggressive. I just want to finish my first marathon without getting injured BEFORE actual race day. Plus I have LOTS of races after June that I want to be able to run.
Registration is open for www.ladybugrun.com.. We are busy getting everything planned to make this next years race even better than last year.. Some pretty awesome prizes are rolling in...
2013 Goals!!
- Complete a Marathon (VancouverUSA) in under 5 hours.
- Complete the Shamrock 15K (last year I was DNF due to knee pain)
- Run Hood to Coast
- Beat 2012 times for 5K, 10K and Half
- Complete Napa to Sonoma Half
- Nike Women's Half in SF in October
- Foam Roll 5-6 days a week
- 400+ registrants for Ladybug Run
- Do Strength work at least 2x a week
On that note..better close so I can get my Kettlebell workout done...
Sunday, December 16, 2012
HM #6 Holiday Half Race Report
My thoughts were all over the place this morning, of my sixth half marathon. I didn't have any expectations for this race, other than I wanted to have fun and finish. If I PR'd that would be gravy, or icing, or whatever metaphor is less cheesy. I didn't even look up my times from the last half marathon to make sure I paced this right, I just sort of decided I would try to keep the first half around 10 min/miles and the second half a little faster.
Since Melissa and I wanted to drive and park instead of taking the shuttle, we left early and got to the race by 7:15. First pit stop with no lines, and then to the staging area which was inside a parking garage shielded from the drizzle and maybe 5 degrees warmer than the outside. We easily found some of our other friends and tried to keep warm. The race started pretty much on time and I was happy to start running because it was quite chilly. The first 2 miles I ran alone until I came up MaryAlicia and a friend.. Ran with them for a while and then found Steve and Michelle from a running Facebook group I belong to, and the kind souls who gave us a ride to Runaway Pumpkin. Got to spend some time with them before picking up the pace.. Then I was solo again for a few miles before I ran into another running group friend, Courtney from Run Mama, Run. We ran together for several miles. Around mile 3 I saw two women running with a sign on their back that read, "running for the 20 children who will never know the joys of running..." or something close to that. The tears filled my eyes and I choked back a sob. I think all of us have been crying or filled with sadness since we learned of the tragedy in Connecticut. As a mother to a kindergartner myself, I keep hugging her and looking at her with the knowledge that there are 40 parents with broken hearts that will never get to do that again. That is unfathomable. Since our family was introduced into this world of birth defects, I have watched too many parents have to say good bye to their precious babies too soon. I hear of usually at least one, sometimes up to six babies lost each week to CDH and that is devastating. I have way too many friends with children that either are currently battling cancer or are survivors. It is scary enough being a parent with the reality that you could lose your child to disease, illness, or an accident. But on a normal day that you sent your child to Elementary School? Maybe fought over their pokeyness getting out the door as I do with mine most mornings. They said good bye, that they loved them... and that was it. That was the last time they saw their child before someone brutally murdered them. Children. Innocents. I don't think anyone right now can wrap their heads around how someone could hurt these innocent children and adults. I know this sets the stage for discussion about gun control, or mental illness care - which both are valid.. but right now I can't get past the sick feeling in my stomach. This tragedy has not been far from my thoughts since it happened and I am thankful for those two runners who ran today in honor of those children, and to the many other runners who are have or are planning 26 mile runs.
**I wasn't sure about keeping that part in... I am sitting here wondering if it is appropriate - but I think it is where most of us are right now.. We are trying to go about our lives - but this horrible tragedy is ever present in our thoughts. Whether you are a parent or not, I think most humans have been profoundly gut wrenched by this unspeakable act.**
So then I tried to breathe again because it was hard breathing between the cold, and the rock of grief for children and adults I have never met, but I found my groove again. I was able to chat with Courtney for a while and we kept the pace between 9:50 and 10:00 min miles. I have a whole new appreciation for the out and back. I love seeing the fast runners came back towards us. I love seeing my speedy friends run past. I love being able to cheer for my friends. Around mile 8 Courtney and I parted. I started slowing down around mile 9.. I looked at my watch and was annoyed to see that what felt like the same pace was 15 seconds slower - so I had to begin the internal conversation. By mile 10, that evil voice in me started telling me it was ok to walk, I wasn't planning a PR today - why did I need to push? But then competitive Liz said, Your knee isn't hurting today- you should be running faster - GO! It took everything in me to keep it between 9:50-10:00 and then once I hit mile 12 I was running on fumes. There was a lot of positive self talk that transpired to get me to that finish line. I finished at 2:10:59. A one min PR and I was able to run the entire race without any knee or hamstring pain. This was a hard run for the last 3-4 miles and I'm not sure if it is was the weather, or fueling issues, or xyz.. (there is always something)... but what I am learning is that it is the finishing these hard ones that gives me the 'fuel' for the next time. I am able to recall pushing through something more difficult as motivation to keep going.
So all in all a great event! There was warm (but burnt) soup awaiting us as we entered the garage. Eggnog, Beer, and several vendors sampling their products. A cover band playing top 40 hits. I even got 2 prizes - a Nuun water bottle for being in a costume, and a pair of socks for answering a trivia question about Foot Traffic correctly. The Oregon Lottery had a fun booth set up for photos... Other than the weather, which they had no control over, I have no complaints about this event. I had so much fun!
So now I take a two week Chiropractor prescribed break. The acupuncture treatments are really improving my high hamstring tendinopathy (I finally figured out the name for my injury!) but I need to make sure my body is even stronger and healed before embarking on training for that 26.2. I'm going to take the next 2 weeks easy and just enjoy precious moments with my beautiful children and my wonderful husband and just be grateful for each moment, each day we have together.
Merry Christmas!
Since Melissa and I wanted to drive and park instead of taking the shuttle, we left early and got to the race by 7:15. First pit stop with no lines, and then to the staging area which was inside a parking garage shielded from the drizzle and maybe 5 degrees warmer than the outside. We easily found some of our other friends and tried to keep warm. The race started pretty much on time and I was happy to start running because it was quite chilly. The first 2 miles I ran alone until I came up MaryAlicia and a friend.. Ran with them for a while and then found Steve and Michelle from a running Facebook group I belong to, and the kind souls who gave us a ride to Runaway Pumpkin. Got to spend some time with them before picking up the pace.. Then I was solo again for a few miles before I ran into another running group friend, Courtney from Run Mama, Run. We ran together for several miles. Around mile 3 I saw two women running with a sign on their back that read, "running for the 20 children who will never know the joys of running..." or something close to that. The tears filled my eyes and I choked back a sob. I think all of us have been crying or filled with sadness since we learned of the tragedy in Connecticut. As a mother to a kindergartner myself, I keep hugging her and looking at her with the knowledge that there are 40 parents with broken hearts that will never get to do that again. That is unfathomable. Since our family was introduced into this world of birth defects, I have watched too many parents have to say good bye to their precious babies too soon. I hear of usually at least one, sometimes up to six babies lost each week to CDH and that is devastating. I have way too many friends with children that either are currently battling cancer or are survivors. It is scary enough being a parent with the reality that you could lose your child to disease, illness, or an accident. But on a normal day that you sent your child to Elementary School? Maybe fought over their pokeyness getting out the door as I do with mine most mornings. They said good bye, that they loved them... and that was it. That was the last time they saw their child before someone brutally murdered them. Children. Innocents. I don't think anyone right now can wrap their heads around how someone could hurt these innocent children and adults. I know this sets the stage for discussion about gun control, or mental illness care - which both are valid.. but right now I can't get past the sick feeling in my stomach. This tragedy has not been far from my thoughts since it happened and I am thankful for those two runners who ran today in honor of those children, and to the many other runners who are have or are planning 26 mile runs.
**I wasn't sure about keeping that part in... I am sitting here wondering if it is appropriate - but I think it is where most of us are right now.. We are trying to go about our lives - but this horrible tragedy is ever present in our thoughts. Whether you are a parent or not, I think most humans have been profoundly gut wrenched by this unspeakable act.**
So then I tried to breathe again because it was hard breathing between the cold, and the rock of grief for children and adults I have never met, but I found my groove again. I was able to chat with Courtney for a while and we kept the pace between 9:50 and 10:00 min miles. I have a whole new appreciation for the out and back. I love seeing the fast runners came back towards us. I love seeing my speedy friends run past. I love being able to cheer for my friends. Around mile 8 Courtney and I parted. I started slowing down around mile 9.. I looked at my watch and was annoyed to see that what felt like the same pace was 15 seconds slower - so I had to begin the internal conversation. By mile 10, that evil voice in me started telling me it was ok to walk, I wasn't planning a PR today - why did I need to push? But then competitive Liz said, Your knee isn't hurting today- you should be running faster - GO! It took everything in me to keep it between 9:50-10:00 and then once I hit mile 12 I was running on fumes. There was a lot of positive self talk that transpired to get me to that finish line. I finished at 2:10:59. A one min PR and I was able to run the entire race without any knee or hamstring pain. This was a hard run for the last 3-4 miles and I'm not sure if it is was the weather, or fueling issues, or xyz.. (there is always something)... but what I am learning is that it is the finishing these hard ones that gives me the 'fuel' for the next time. I am able to recall pushing through something more difficult as motivation to keep going.
So all in all a great event! There was warm (but burnt) soup awaiting us as we entered the garage. Eggnog, Beer, and several vendors sampling their products. A cover band playing top 40 hits. I even got 2 prizes - a Nuun water bottle for being in a costume, and a pair of socks for answering a trivia question about Foot Traffic correctly. The Oregon Lottery had a fun booth set up for photos... Other than the weather, which they had no control over, I have no complaints about this event. I had so much fun!
So now I take a two week Chiropractor prescribed break. The acupuncture treatments are really improving my high hamstring tendinopathy (I finally figured out the name for my injury!) but I need to make sure my body is even stronger and healed before embarking on training for that 26.2. I'm going to take the next 2 weeks easy and just enjoy precious moments with my beautiful children and my wonderful husband and just be grateful for each moment, each day we have together.
Merry Christmas!
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| With the deranged Easter Bunny... |
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Goals!!
I have penned a bunch of blog posts in the last few weeks. Unfortunately, they have all been in my head. So here's a quick one to get me back in the swing of things... I hit a milestone last week. I crossed the threshold of one thousand twelve miles logged for 2012. That was one of my running goals for the year. Wahooo!!
So here's my 2012 Goals
1. I will run faster!! Beat 10K and Half PRs - CHECK
2. I will run a relay - Epic Relay..CHECK
3. I will run 4-5 days a week. CHECK - except for 2 breaks to heal.
4. I will run injury free- I will roll, strength train and stretch... um... working on it.. I admit it I got lazy on the last 3 which means I was not injury free this year.. but I continue to run - so that's good... I just started acupuncture and so far I am pretty optimistic that that will do to the trick to finally heal my long aching hamstring!
5. I will organize a race and raise money for CDH - Ladybug Run - CHECK!!
6. I will do a destination race.. Well Runaway Pumpkin was about an hour and a half away.. CHECK!
7. I will run a sub 1 hr 10K - CHECK 57:01
8. I will run a sub 28 min 5K - CHECK 27:33
9. I will run 1012 miles- CHECK!
10. Blog at least once a week.. Nope.
Feeling pretty proud of myself... and excited about next year. Because I have something to admit publicly. I have started saying it outloud.. so I think it's time to come clean. To put this goal out there into the universe.
In 2013 I will run my first Marathon. In June- the VancouverUSA Marathon.
There. I said it. I will post a longer 2013 goal list.. and another lengthy post on how I finally came around to this decision. But after saying Oh, I'll never.. or..'not yet' countless times. I just decided.. why not? Why not now? I am not making any huge crazy goals for that race. I'd like to finish under 5:00 hours. I just want to train for the marathon and see if I can do it. I think I can. My longest run this year was a 15 miler. That's over half way there.
I LOVE goals. I'm kinda wacky that way. I need things to drive towards. I love planning and being on a plan.
I'm giddy that I've finally blogged this! And girlfriends - you know who you are.. I am going to be counting on several of you to be running parts of that race with me!
So here's my 2012 Goals
1. I will run faster!! Beat 10K and Half PRs - CHECK
2. I will run a relay - Epic Relay..CHECK
3. I will run 4-5 days a week. CHECK - except for 2 breaks to heal.
4. I will run injury free- I will roll, strength train and stretch... um... working on it.. I admit it I got lazy on the last 3 which means I was not injury free this year.. but I continue to run - so that's good... I just started acupuncture and so far I am pretty optimistic that that will do to the trick to finally heal my long aching hamstring!
5. I will organize a race and raise money for CDH - Ladybug Run - CHECK!!
6. I will do a destination race.. Well Runaway Pumpkin was about an hour and a half away.. CHECK!
7. I will run a sub 1 hr 10K - CHECK 57:01
8. I will run a sub 28 min 5K - CHECK 27:33
9. I will run 1012 miles- CHECK!
10. Blog at least once a week.. Nope.
Feeling pretty proud of myself... and excited about next year. Because I have something to admit publicly. I have started saying it outloud.. so I think it's time to come clean. To put this goal out there into the universe.
In 2013 I will run my first Marathon. In June- the VancouverUSA Marathon.
There. I said it. I will post a longer 2013 goal list.. and another lengthy post on how I finally came around to this decision. But after saying Oh, I'll never.. or..'not yet' countless times. I just decided.. why not? Why not now? I am not making any huge crazy goals for that race. I'd like to finish under 5:00 hours. I just want to train for the marathon and see if I can do it. I think I can. My longest run this year was a 15 miler. That's over half way there.
I LOVE goals. I'm kinda wacky that way. I need things to drive towards. I love planning and being on a plan.
I'm giddy that I've finally blogged this! And girlfriends - you know who you are.. I am going to be counting on several of you to be running parts of that race with me!
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Race Report: Cause and Event 5K/10K - AG winner? What?
I met Amy Little, the Race Director for this event, earlier this year because a mutual friend thought we should meet.. I mean, what are the odds that she would know 2 women looking to start races on the same year? We met for a glass of wine and shared our stories and inspirations for our insanity. Then a few months later she and I were on the Epic Relay team together and as many of you know, you get to whole new level of knowing people on a relay race! She had this fantastic idea to hold a race where ALL causes could be supported. "Your Cause, Our Event." Cause and Event was born. There is a lot more that I could write about Amy, but overall I must say that she is such an amazing woman. A sense of humor that doesn't quit (even when she is being rolled into the operating room), and a heart that is HUGE. She is a very special individual and I am so glad to have gotten to know her.. and her love of bananas.
This 5K Run/Walk and 10K Run was out in the Bethany area, where I have never had the pleasure of running before. Who knew there were so many hills in Beaverton? I had originally signed up for the 10K, but after taking the last 2 weeks off from running after Runaway Pumpkin, I thought dropping to the 5K was a wiser choice.
We formed Team Ladybug and we were running to raise money for the Ladybug CDH Foundation. I'm not sure what the final number for the team was- but we had a great turnout! Thanks to everyone that joined our team and/or donated or volunteered!! Amy had a HUGE turnout for a first year race (over 300 registrants!!!) and I know this is going to be a huge success going forward (a race series across the US).
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| Before the race..trying to keep warm. |
I did a short workout yesterday with 4x 100m strides and felt strong, so I was hopeful I would be able to run without serious pain today.
I started the race near the front, and started WAY fast. I looked down at my watch and saw I was averaging 7:20 and knew I needed to back way off. I settled into 8:44 pace. Then I realized that my shoelace is about to be untied. Shoot. I stop to hastily retie it (with my gloves on) and get back to running. Mile 2 added some nice rolling hills, which did slow my pace a little. Oh ya, and I had to stop to tie both my shoes again. Note to self: make sure you double knot shoes before next race. 9:09 for the second mile. At least 20 seconds lost for shoe tying. The last mile I see my husband pushing the double stroller ahead of me up a big hill. Yesterday, he made the mistake of saying all he cared about today was beating me. Fighting words. He usually always does finish before me. Even pushing the double BOB stroller with 100+ pounds of kids. Not today. I passed him on the hill and made the final push. 9:15 for Mile 3- I think starting to fast and the hills were catching up with me.. I dug deep for the final .13 and finished 28:44. It was not a PR (my PR is on a pretty flat course at 27:33), but I was happy to have finished before my hubby. (Nothing like friendly competition, right?)
Milliseconds, the timing company, had these cool kiosks set up where you could check your time pretty much immediately. For the 5K; I finished 20th Overall, 9th for ALL women, and 1st in my age group! I was in shock. I think I went back and checked it 5 times - even brought witnesses one of the times because I thought I must be misreading something.
Disclaimer: I was 1st in my age group because the 2 other women in my AG won overall awards, thereby taking them out of my AG and bringing me up from 3rd to 1st - wahoo!!!
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| So stinkin excited about this ribbon! |
I'll take it. It is the first time I have ever placed in an age group and it felt goooood. Gotta love small races.
We really brought home the loot at this race; I won a $15 gift card to Aries Apparel, Finley won a gift card for a dozen Bliss Cupcakes, and Rowan won a $5 Sonic card. Both girls did great in the 1/2 mile kids race.. Rowan ran the whole time, and at one point she wanted to walk, but I was able to get her to keep running just by telling her we were almost done. So proud of her!! Finley brought up the rear with daddy doing her 2 year old toddler waddle/run.. but she rocked it! Holding her bear the whole time. My 2 year old CDH Survivor ran a 1/2 mile - that's pretty incredible.
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| Finley running with her bear.... |
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| Jon placed first in his AG for the 5K (even though I still beat him! Hee-hee) |
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| Marianne placed 2nd in the 10K for her AG!! |
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| Cause and Event 2012!! |
Amy put so many nice touches in to the race; childcare available, the shirts (all volunteers, runners, sponsors names on the back of the shirt - if you registered in time), the bags, impressive Expo, professional timing, great spread of food, Starbucks coffee, and so much more. Amy - you did an awesome job and should feel so proud!!
What a great morning! I love when I can do these races and still spend time with my family. 5Ks are nice too since they don't wipe me out for the rest of the day. Can't wait to do this event again next year - maybe I'll even try and tackle the hillacious 10K.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Race Report: Runaway Pumpkin
So the day had finally come... The race that has been my goal race since beginning my training plan with Coach J in July was here. The Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon in Lebanon, Oregon.
A motley group of runners met in the drizzling rain in front of Peet's in Bridgeport Village at 6:20 a.m. to catch a ride with the awesome Steve Robinson who offered to drive a group of runners down. What began as a light sprinkle, quickly became a heavy downpour as the morning progressed. We made good time and were at the event a little after 8:00 with plenty of time to pick up our packets, do the bathroom line (in my case- multiple times, bag drop off, and then find shelter to try and stay dry before the race began. I was able to find a spot under a tree to do my warm up/stretches and then lined up at 8:50. The race began right on time - led by a couple of 'runaway pumpkins' who got a jump on the clock.
The beginning of the race took you along gravel and a path the was right next to the river with quite a bit of beginning of the race congestion. I would have liked to have been able to stick closer to my starting goal time, which was to start the race at about 10 min/miles but was able to make up the time and ended up around 10:30 split. As we moved into the neighborhood, things cleared out and we were able to get into our groove. So many great volunteers and townspeople were out cheering on the racers. I had wanted to keep the first half between 9:44 and 10:00 and then slowly speed up the second half. But around 6.5 miles my knee started aching. I tried walking for a bit, but that didn't make it go away. I decided that I would just try and push through the pain. We had water stations at about every 2 miles so I was glad I had decided to leave water at home since I am still trying to find a solution that hydrates me- but doesn't splash all over me like all the belts I have tried or annoy the heck out of me like anything handheld.
Maryalicia (Run Oregon bloggess) had offered to pace me, so I was so thankful to have her with me that second half when I needed to keep my mind off of the pain. She is also the happiest runner I have ever met, and it was infectious running next to someone who was so appreciative (I think she thanked everyone out volunteering) of the support staff and the scenery. It was such a beautiful run (apparently a new route this year- which added a little more hill) but nothing this westside Portlander couldn't handle. This is the first race I have tried to just run through pain.. not soreness- but actual physical pain.. and for 6 miles. I will have to say that I learned I am mentally tougher than I thought I was after this race. After working towards this race for 16 weeks, there was no way I was going to throw in the towel. I knew I wasn't going to be able to sub 9:30's for the second half like I was hoping for - but I knew if I could stay as close to 10s as possible, I could still PR.
That last mile was excruciating I hoped it wasn't anything that some ice and time off wouldn't heal- I was 90% sure I wasn't doing permanent damage (I am pretty sure I know that difference now?) but I knew I was pushing it. But I felt like I had worked too hard not to. We picked up the pace in that final stretch because I just wanted to be done and somehow was able to do a 9:37.. the final .10 was on gravel. I think I actually yelled - are you kidding me? Gravel? I am supposed to dig deep and sprint on GRAVEL? But thankfully I had Maryalicia running in front of me, yelling at me to dig deep and finish strong. I was tired enough and just wanted to start walking that her "motivation" lit that fire in me to get across the finish line. She was my hero.
I have never wanted to walk so badly in a race before. But I didn't. Plus, it didn't help. Actually the few times I started to walk, that actually felt worse and I knew I just needed to keep running. I think Maryalicia probably thinks I am insane, because I was muttering Phil 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" over and over again. I reminded myself that Finley didn't give up. Thinking about her really helped me. Nothing like thinking about your baby fighting through their first 30 days of life to make you think 1 hour of discomfort is nothing.
2:13.XX was the time on the clock as I crossed the finish line. I knew since I started back with the 10 min/milers I had a few seconds grace... I knew I had achieved some sort of PR.. but I was already more amazed that I had just powered through 6 miles through considerable pain at a faster pace than my other HMs.
I can't wait to see the finish line photos.. I was so ecstatic to be done. I also could barely walk. I accepted my finishers medal and hobbled over to a waiting masseuse who did a 10 min massage on my ailing knee. It didn't really help. I got a cute pumpkin "awesome costume' award (above) and personal mini-fan and carried those over to the medical tent to get some ice. Oh blessed ice.
Melissa, my other friend that did this race also came in with a HUGE PR. I think most of our car PRd that morning.
Great food spread afterwards - but I grabbed some chocolate milk and some cookies and didn't really partake. We needed to get back to Portland and I wanted to get on my compression hose and get cozy with my bag o' ice.
This was a very well organized race, with excellent support. I would highly recommend this race to anyone thinking about it in the future.
I am happy that I surpassed 2 out of 3 of the goals I had set. Of course I am disappointing I didn't beat 2:08 too, but I know I had/have that in me. I felt like I could have run faster if my knee hadn't been hurting so bad- so I know I have sub 2:08 in me... who knows.. maybe by next year I'll see a sub 2 hour!
Now I am taking it easy for the next 2 weeks- going to let things heal.. Then focus on some strength (while maintaining my base) for the rest of the year before I jump into a focused training plan in January. I think I'll just focus on trying to run strong and healthy and just see what happens for the Holiday Half - without setting any hard pressed goals.
Final thoughts...
**This was my fifth half marathon... in 12 months. I ran my first half marathon just last October in 2:37.
**I PR'd by almost 6 minutes. Wahoo!
**Thank you to Coach J for a great training plan!
**Thank you to so many friends who sent texts, Facebook messages, and called.. I felt so much love and support. Not to mention my wonderful friend Stacy who brought me ice cream Saturday night! (Note to self: Do not run any races over 10K when hubby is out of town again... We survived - but there was a lot of TV for the rest of Saturday.)
Next up is the Cause and Event 5K/10K - this is falling within my 2 week running break/recovery period, so I have opted for the 5K and plan on just running it for fun, not trying to break any PRs. This is going to be a FABULOUS first year event - we have a team formed- Team Ladybug.. you should join us! Or start your own team, or sign up solo.. or volunteer! My friend Amy is the Race Director and I am so excited for her... this is such a great idea and I know it is going to be a huge success. You don't want to miss out on being a part of the first year.. how many people can say.."hey, I've been doing this event since it started.." Be that person!
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| The Robinson Pumpkin-mobile - Photo credit Steve Robinson |
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| I also had a felt pumpkin cut out on my back, that apparently looked like it was chewing as I ran... |
A motley group of runners met in the drizzling rain in front of Peet's in Bridgeport Village at 6:20 a.m. to catch a ride with the awesome Steve Robinson who offered to drive a group of runners down. What began as a light sprinkle, quickly became a heavy downpour as the morning progressed. We made good time and were at the event a little after 8:00 with plenty of time to pick up our packets, do the bathroom line (in my case- multiple times, bag drop off, and then find shelter to try and stay dry before the race began. I was able to find a spot under a tree to do my warm up/stretches and then lined up at 8:50. The race began right on time - led by a couple of 'runaway pumpkins' who got a jump on the clock.
The beginning of the race took you along gravel and a path the was right next to the river with quite a bit of beginning of the race congestion. I would have liked to have been able to stick closer to my starting goal time, which was to start the race at about 10 min/miles but was able to make up the time and ended up around 10:30 split. As we moved into the neighborhood, things cleared out and we were able to get into our groove. So many great volunteers and townspeople were out cheering on the racers. I had wanted to keep the first half between 9:44 and 10:00 and then slowly speed up the second half. But around 6.5 miles my knee started aching. I tried walking for a bit, but that didn't make it go away. I decided that I would just try and push through the pain. We had water stations at about every 2 miles so I was glad I had decided to leave water at home since I am still trying to find a solution that hydrates me- but doesn't splash all over me like all the belts I have tried or annoy the heck out of me like anything handheld.
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| Me and Melissa - before the race |
That last mile was excruciating I hoped it wasn't anything that some ice and time off wouldn't heal- I was 90% sure I wasn't doing permanent damage (I am pretty sure I know that difference now?) but I knew I was pushing it. But I felt like I had worked too hard not to. We picked up the pace in that final stretch because I just wanted to be done and somehow was able to do a 9:37.. the final .10 was on gravel. I think I actually yelled - are you kidding me? Gravel? I am supposed to dig deep and sprint on GRAVEL? But thankfully I had Maryalicia running in front of me, yelling at me to dig deep and finish strong. I was tired enough and just wanted to start walking that her "motivation" lit that fire in me to get across the finish line. She was my hero.
I have never wanted to walk so badly in a race before. But I didn't. Plus, it didn't help. Actually the few times I started to walk, that actually felt worse and I knew I just needed to keep running. I think Maryalicia probably thinks I am insane, because I was muttering Phil 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" over and over again. I reminded myself that Finley didn't give up. Thinking about her really helped me. Nothing like thinking about your baby fighting through their first 30 days of life to make you think 1 hour of discomfort is nothing.
2:13.XX was the time on the clock as I crossed the finish line. I knew since I started back with the 10 min/milers I had a few seconds grace... I knew I had achieved some sort of PR.. but I was already more amazed that I had just powered through 6 miles through considerable pain at a faster pace than my other HMs.
I can't wait to see the finish line photos.. I was so ecstatic to be done. I also could barely walk. I accepted my finishers medal and hobbled over to a waiting masseuse who did a 10 min massage on my ailing knee. It didn't really help. I got a cute pumpkin "awesome costume' award (above) and personal mini-fan and carried those over to the medical tent to get some ice. Oh blessed ice.
Melissa, my other friend that did this race also came in with a HUGE PR. I think most of our car PRd that morning.
Great food spread afterwards - but I grabbed some chocolate milk and some cookies and didn't really partake. We needed to get back to Portland and I wanted to get on my compression hose and get cozy with my bag o' ice.
This was a very well organized race, with excellent support. I would highly recommend this race to anyone thinking about it in the future.
I am happy that I surpassed 2 out of 3 of the goals I had set. Of course I am disappointing I didn't beat 2:08 too, but I know I had/have that in me. I felt like I could have run faster if my knee hadn't been hurting so bad- so I know I have sub 2:08 in me... who knows.. maybe by next year I'll see a sub 2 hour!
Now I am taking it easy for the next 2 weeks- going to let things heal.. Then focus on some strength (while maintaining my base) for the rest of the year before I jump into a focused training plan in January. I think I'll just focus on trying to run strong and healthy and just see what happens for the Holiday Half - without setting any hard pressed goals.
Final thoughts...
**This was my fifth half marathon... in 12 months. I ran my first half marathon just last October in 2:37.
**I PR'd by almost 6 minutes. Wahoo!
**Thank you to Coach J for a great training plan!
**Thank you to so many friends who sent texts, Facebook messages, and called.. I felt so much love and support. Not to mention my wonderful friend Stacy who brought me ice cream Saturday night! (Note to self: Do not run any races over 10K when hubby is out of town again... We survived - but there was a lot of TV for the rest of Saturday.)
Next up is the Cause and Event 5K/10K - this is falling within my 2 week running break/recovery period, so I have opted for the 5K and plan on just running it for fun, not trying to break any PRs. This is going to be a FABULOUS first year event - we have a team formed- Team Ladybug.. you should join us! Or start your own team, or sign up solo.. or volunteer! My friend Amy is the Race Director and I am so excited for her... this is such a great idea and I know it is going to be a huge success. You don't want to miss out on being a part of the first year.. how many people can say.."hey, I've been doing this event since it started.." Be that person!
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Taper Gremlins
I suddenly feel this urge to do things I haven't been doing in this training cycle.
I am filled with doubt about my goal and my ability to accomplish it.
I am wondering if I really did put in enough miles.
I have butterflies just thinking about the race on Saturday.
This is just silly, right? I decided to write my goal on my hand today and will stare at this number for the rest of the week. I will BELIEVE that I can do this. I will BELIEVE in my training. I've got my 3 goals and I need to just settle my mind and trust.
Today will be my last real work out - doing the same track work out as last week. Thursday is a rest day, Friday I will do a shake things loose: 1 mile walk, 1 mile easy and 4 100s at 5k pace to get those legs ready to run.
We were in Newport and Lincoln City last week and I had the opportunity to run 6 beautiful miles across the Newport bridge and along the waterfront.
I don't love heights. There were moments as I ran over this bridge that I set my sights on the horizon because I had that nervous feeling in my stomach. Oh, and there are these weird metal squares that look like trap doors that open. I jumped over those like a six year old avoids cracks in the sidewalk. The view at the crest made it all worth it. I loved being able to stop and take a few photos and enjoy the view. Something you just can't do when driving over the bridge. I loved the feeling after crossing the bridge of exhilaration of doing something that didn't feel 'comfortable' but seeing that the senseless worry - was in fact senseless. Our pastor said a great line this week, "90% of the things you worry about never happen." We waste so much time being anxious and worrying when we need to set our minds on the positive. Which, ironically, is exactly what I need to do for this weekend. Stop worrying that "I can't" and set my mind on achieving my goals.
My gratitude list for today;
* My family. My girls had a blast last night dancing to that PSY song, "Gangnam Style" and I got the funniest video. It makes my heart SING listening to their little laughs and seeing them be funny and silly together. Sometimes I still have to pinch myself that I have two healthy girls - sisters. I am the luckiest mama in the world. Plus, I have an amazing husband who loves us so much. He really is a great dad.
*My friends.I am blessed to have some very special people in my life that love me for me. In all my craziness, they love me.
*My faith... Being able to pray and let go of any and all worries that come across my mind.
*A mostly healthy body (my hamstring has been bothering me some, but that just seems to ever present) that can run.
* Someone who can watch my girls that I love on Saturday morning so that I can go run a race.
Starting to plan for the races I want to do next year.. Eugene Half, Sonoma to Napa Half, Vancouver, Hood to Coast, Nike Women's Half...what's races are you hoping to do next year?
And why am I planning the next race already?
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