2012 Goals

My biggest goal, well- OK- a goal for 2012 is to update my blogs more! I seriously skipped at least 50% of Savannah's training and everything else in between and after :( Who has time to do this??
Ok- short but sweet entries, I can do this!
On tap for 2012: Fargo Marathon in May, Savannah RnR in November and hopefully at least one half in there somewhere. Twin Cities in October may be on tap as well, If Hubby's friend mans up and registers! So exciting- lots of training happening, and it all starts.very.soon!!!

Let's Rock n Roll!!!

Savannah Style!
I know I skipped the whole training updating part... but you know you want the race report the most anyway! So without further ado~
Hands down the best race experience I have ever had. I loved, loved, loved every minute of it. I wish I could tell you why, but after much soul searching...I just dont know! Was this marathon so much better because I had experience on my side this time? Was it all location, location, location? Was it family waiting at the finish line? Maybe all of those, and maybe, none of it!
Whatever it was, it has me all psyched up to do another!
Miles 1-16, honestly- I dont even remember anything but the cheerleaders! All those wonderful souls from the "rougher" areas of Savannah coming on out to cheer us on. Something about hearing, "Mornin' dahlins!" from a big black lady all bundled up at 8 in the morning just for us...sigh.. I miss the south! Mile 8 was back downtown on Liberty- much bigger crowds and lots of hootin' and hollerin'! Apparently my sister saw me here and chased me for 2 blocks, but crowd had me going!! She said I was weaving in and out and just kept speeding up and up, lol! She collapsed on the corner wondering How in the He** Someone Does this for 26 miles?!?!
Mile 11/12 was a mimosa party :) Too bad they werent passing them out! Shortly after, the herd is seperated... the rest from the best :)
At mile 17 I knew I needed to text my locale to my family. But dang! I just didnt want to stop! I am still in awe of just how AWESOME I felt! This mile marker is also where one of my uncles waited for a looonnnggg time for me to pass by! First time I have ever had someone meet me mid-course, took lots of effort not to cry :)
Finally at mile 18 I sent out one quick text, 18 doing good!
Mile 20- girls in front were celebrating and dancing! Heck yeah- 20 miles down, WE GOT THIS!
Then mile 21...the parkway of doom, dah dah daaaahhhh! Back on the Truman Parkway which was incline-y (I hesitate to call them hills) and a 20mph wind tunnel :( This vast passage with no crowds/support lasted for a full 3 miles! I remember passing mile 24 and thinking, Gosh- there is only 2 miles left in this damn race- when are we gonna get off this thing and get back downtown?!!!?
But alas, we did get off shortly after 24, straight into downtown-ish and back to some crowds and OUT of that life-sucking wind. By now I know that my kick-ass PR is gone but my goal PR is still attainable. I. Must. Rally. and bring this thing home. I send out one last text at mile 25: 25, give me 10 minutes!
I fully remember rounding the corner on Drayton. I am scanning the crowds because I know my mom, aunt, niece and sisters are waiting for me. I see Aunt Janet!!! I see my Mom!! It is on now!! Pace gets picked up and I am bringing this biotch HOME at a 7 m/m !!!!!! I cross the finish in 4:30:09 and am ready for the world!!!!
My goal is met, my mind and body are happy. I have done what I set out to do. I am not tired, I am not sore, heck- my hamstrings are hardly tight. I shouldve run faster! LOL That is OK, next time I will. NEXT time, I will finish in 4:15! Watch me, Savannah, just watch me!

I'm Sexy and I Know It

Love, love love that song (this week anyway!) it totally made me bust out some moves right around mile 10, yeah- that crazy chick dancing while running this morning- just ignore her! Whew- it was hot this AM! Got out a little earlier than usual- but not early enough. Miles 15-17 were pretty rough :( I really just wanted to stop; BuT I acknowledged that my legs, lungs, and the rest were felling pretty good. It was a mental game. I think just knowing I was SuppOsed to be tired, and hot, and thirsty made me a little more negative than I felt!
So, at the pace I kept today, I stand to beat my A goal of 4:30. bUT hang on!!! We all know the last half of the race is much harder than the first! So, considering how I felt, I think shooting for 4:30 is still a (reachable) but logical goal!
I didnt wear my compression/knee support pants today- hello!! Mega hot out!- so this 17 miles was done with only KT tape on the knees :) Knowing that I made it that far with minimal help on the ITBand is a pretty big confidence booster. Oh- and that KT tape started to sweat off around 6, lol! I could see the edges flapping on my shadow runner girl as I kept trudging down the road.
I wish I could find the times of my last 17ish mile runs, just to compare... I am not walking except for nutrition breaks, would be interesting to see how I am stacking up. I suppose in the interest of the NEXT marathon training- I will post times... Today 17.1 was 3:01. Just looking at the numbers- it still makes 4:30 look lofty. Fargo was 4:42, and experience has to count for something, right?!?

back on track!

I made it!! I made all 14 (ahem... 15) miles today! Gotta say, the first 4 were iffy, I couldnt think of anything BUT my knee. Is my form right, am I relaxed, did I just feel something... On and on and on it goes. But finally I was able to let go and just run. It was awesome! I didnt stop till mile 7. There I walked @ 3 minutes for a GU break. Then I set off again. I stopped next at 11 miles to check out my friends garage sale (I needed new fabrics for the headbands!) I figured I deserved a little break from battling a head wind my whole way back :(
Anyway- I left her house after about 10-15 minutes and head home. I started feeling bad for breaking, so I decided to tack on an extra mile. I think I walked a minute at 13.5 or 14?? I was tired... but then something just kicked after that and I brought it home nice and strong :) 15 miles with no ITB pain!! I am ecstatic.
Now, for the record- and maybe you have noticed something like this too? I am wondering if the flare up has anything to do with AF? Gonna keep my radar tuned into that! Until then, on to 17 Saturday!!

bit of a backtrack

Wow- actually had to read my last entry just to see where I was. Been a while...
BUT I have good news. After my 14 got cut short (thank you ITB) I sulked home with 8 and tried to stay positive. I rolled and stretched and rolled- AND kept up with my strength training. The following Saturday was a 5K... I planned to run it consertively and do another 7 afterwards. Well, I walked/ran 1.5 to the race site, then ran the 5k in... wait for it... 24:25! Yeah, so much for conservative! Although I am pretty stinkin' sure this course measured short- I will talke that time and relish it :) OH, and I am sure I dont need to mention- there was not 7 more miles after that!
Although the ITB felt fine during the run, fast forward a bit and my WHOLE right leg is just aching :( I mean hip to calf, just achy and no rolling or stretching is helping. In fact the stretching seems to aggravate! It just so happens AF is in town as well... Regardless- strength training continues, as do shorter runs that feel fine, but aching afterwards...
Well- in time for Saturday's 14 re-do, I dont have high hopes. Actually I am crossing my fingers for 10 miles! I fill the water belt, apply the KT tape and set off...

ITBS we meet again

Ugh, ugh, ugh... Ok- I dont think this bout is as bad as the last one / but annoying none the less! Last weeks 14 miler was cut to 8:( I felt the pain at mile 4, massaged/walk breaked to 6 (where I got home and wrapped the knee) and headed back out for a mere 2 more before I knew I had to give it up.
So- insert 3 foam rolling sessions a day and stretching. I have managed to keep up with my strength training, but I feel the knee:( I skipped Monday's run and opted to walk, fine. Wednesday felt ready but nervous- did 3 on the tm (with intervals) and felt fine. Then I did 4 more later that evening and felt some tenderness... Dammit.
Today, Saturday, I ran the bass Dash 5K. Knee was fine, race was fast, all was well. Until I get home. Knee is achy, I have rolled 3 times already and stretched... Needless to say I am sitting out my extra 7 today... Maybe tomorrow- but most likely Monday.
Arggg- this is annoying! Why can't I just run free??? Damn damn damn!!

12 miles...on a whim

My ITB really acted up Wednesday. I mean, .25 mile in and I knew I was doomed. Kinda came out of nowhere but the pAin was all too familiar. These stabs signaled the death of my Savannah marathon :( You know, I was pretty apathetic towards this race until I was told I couldnt do it!
So, in all too familiar fashion, I continued with the cross training and stretched and rolled and rolled. Come Friday I am just too eager to test out my knees. Unfortunately, I had all the kids and no way to swing a 12 mile run. But then, the sun went behind some clouds and a nice breeze picked up. And I start thinking... Hubs will be home soon and I might, just might- be able to swing this! Still tons to do with garage sale prep, but waiting till Sunday to see if I am going to register for this marathon just seemed impossible!
As soon as I mention the posibilty of running to my husband he all but pushes me out the door so I can be back home before dark. I geared up with water bottles and bloks not knowing if I would even make it a mile... But- I did! I made it many miles :) I ran 6 out to the lake, walked for a minute to swallow blokes, then ran the 6 back home. Only two times did I feel my knees, 1) at the onset of running again after the break. For a moment I thought the trip back was gonna be pretty hairy... But then the discomfort disappeared! And 2) around mile 9 or 10, I can't say they hurt, but they werent feeling incredibly strong:( But, again, this passed and I finished the run strong.
So, with a goofy grin on my face, I went straight upstairs to the computer, downloaded my results to dailymile and then swiftly registered for the Savannah RockNRoll marathon. I figure, if I can decide last minute, unprepared, to run 12 miles- then I am good to train for a marathon, again!!
Long story short- I am running another marathon baby!!! This time I will train with slower runs and little to no walk breaks. Not gonna say legs aren't tired after long runs, but runs are going really smoothly! I am so excited about how the training is going so far. Hopefully, knock on wood, things continue to go as well!

Pixie Dust AwEsOmE giveaway!!

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Click here my friends and you will NOT be disappointed! My amazing friend, Heather Gannoe, has joined the fantastic force that is TNT in fundraising for Lukemia and Lymphona society. In an effort to raise max funds she has packaged up an incredible array of goodies :) GO to the site (Run faster Mommy.com), DONATE to a great cause, and ENTER to win the raffle!!
Stip reading and do it now!!

Week Behind but Miles Ahead

Technically I am a week behind in my Savannah Marathon training schedule but I feel like I am so far ahead of where I was for my Fargo marathon. It seems so stupid, but I can not believe how EASY my run was when I slowed it down and just went... I ran 10 miles with no, NO, walk breaks... Not even the slightest need for one!! I just can not get over how easy this run felt. If it werent for common sense (and some tender knees) I swear I could have just kept on going for 10 more!
Speaking of knees, I am in need of more rolling. I did some last night but I can feel the right one today. Funny, it was the left yesterday!
I am working out my schedule so that I can complete all the training runs as well as Bodyrock most days. I will keep the day before the long run absolutely free of anything! I am learning more the need for rest.... Now, if I can stay injury free and not need all the time consuming PT exercise like last time- I will be good to go!
So, this week, I feel confident in saying, "It is ON like Donkey Kong!" After Ll, you have credit cards to USE them right?!?

Half of a Whole

(This is my hubs at the St Pats Parade downtown Savannah... my last trip there years ago!)

Conflicting emotions!! I am not so good with these, usually I know what I want and realize that life is too short to bother with what I dont want! In this case, I want the end product- but really dont want to do what is required to get it...
I am talking about a Fall maratnon. It is possible (although not prudent) for me to head down to Savannah for the inaugural RockNRoll marathon. I can see the race expo, the route of my old stomping grounds, the incredible finish with a ton of family around... I like what I see. But, I just cant hold onto that "like" enough to train for it. I am so wishy washy with this event! Perhaps its the guilt manifesting into negativity, it is a lot of $$ at a bad time of year... Perhaps its the heat, long runs or speedworkouts are uber tough in high temps... Perhaps I just dont really want to do it, just want the glory without the work... Or perhaps I am just tired- in which case I need to suck it up!
Either way my mind is unsure and running is seeming like a job. I really hate both of those factors!
I know your input isnt necessary for my decision, but would love to hear it anyway. Have you ever had something you want but no desire to attain it? Funny how that is even possible! Often times I want chocolate but just DONT want to go to the store for it no matter how bad the craving... So maybe these conundrums arent rare for me, lol.

Vacation

The Mason family just wrapped up their first official family vacation! We all packed into the 'burb and drove 1000 miles to the Black Hills, SD. We had a great time, made some memories and just enjoyed ourselves. Of course, spent way too much money and ate some things we shouldnt have.... And although we packed bikes on a towed trailer, not once did we pull them out. The hills were so steep that I knew the kids would just get frustrated and hate it :( I, however, couldnt wake to tackle the hills on foot!
I gave myself 2 days before I set out for a hilly run. Hmmmm, hills may be the wrong word... Perhaps small mountains? My first attempt was only 2 miles and most of it was walking, er trudging up hill. Then it was so steep and loose that I couldnt run the downside! Argh, I think these hills tackled me!
A couple days later I anxiously tried again... I scouted out a road that looked a bit less mountainess and took off. The elevation difference made the first mile hard and the hills were still there- but then my body just fell in and went with it. Slower up and quicker down but enjoyable none the less. I decided to try the monster hill again from attempt #1 and see if it felt better; nope- still sucked!! LOL - upon checking the Garmin on my return, turns out it was a 2000 ft climb (at 6000ft elevation) and close to a 1000ft drop on the other side! No wonder I was sucking wind!!
Despite the dificulty and the wear and tear on my ITBand, I felt so awesome after each run! You know, tired and spent, but not quite wanting to stop... Funny, collectively my runs were only 5 miles but the difficulty of those 5 had me thinking of marathon training. Its hard, and at times it sucks- but isnt it so awesome when you are done??
Well, speaking of done, our vacation is. As is the lack of routine, diet skips and all the other goofs that led to a big flab bowl on my middle :( Glad to be back in my house, sleeping in my bed, sweating my batooty off to bodyrock in my garage and tomorrow- running around my flat town! Ahhhh, home sweet home!

Dont Let It End!!!

This is the sentiment that my last 3 or so runs have ended with. I get to the stopping point, wether it be miles, time or what have you- I am just not ready to stop running. I take that as a good sign!
Saturday's 5K, I just wanted to keep going... Even running as late as 9pm Tuesday- I had to pick up my son from a party and just didnt want to quit. And today, at the track- monotonous as it was- When I saw the Garmin click to 3 miles and I remembered my promise to the kids of a 30 minute workout- bummed was all I could be. I just want to keep running, not fast-not hard, just moving!
So, I have visions of a dbl header today... will this current feeling last until 8 or so tonight when I finally have a chance to do it again?? We shall see- I am ready! Of course, I still have to bodyrock it today :)

Bronco 5K

I really love local 5K's! It is so cool to see all the runners/walkers out- just really nice to be surrounded by by people who like to be active and like to run vs ones who just think youre crazy. I love cheering on the runners coming in as well as the walkers who you unfortunately dont see out walking nearly enough. I had a blast! I ran with a friend, who finally let her competitive spirit come out and totally whooped me :)I made a PR, but didnt place this time- it was a FAST crowd this go around! The winners in my age group were all 20-22 minute finishers; I wasnt even close with my 24:59 (reported as 25:13-grrrrr) My one and only complaint about this race is the fact that the finish line is not clear... Once you hit the chute, coordinators are telling you to slow or stop, but the times reported dont match the times on the jumbotron; which leads me to think they are telling you to slow/stop too soon. I know 14 seconds isnt much- but thinking I broke 25 minutes was HUGE for me! I couldnt help but be catapulted from cloud 9 when I saw the results on paper :(
Ahhh well, another one down. All fun- loved having all my running friends in one spot doing what we love to do!! Cant wait to do it again!

Wow! I Needed That!

You know how sometimes you get something that you never knew you wanted; now you cant imagine life without it? Well I got one of those gifts today. It came in the form of an interval workout.
My husband recently got a new coworker (whose wife hasnt moved up here yet). When the wife came up for a visit, hubs invited them over for dinner. Great- another couple with no kids, who will inevitably never return b/c we DO have kids- and lots of them. They were nice, had a good visit.
Fast forward months later- the wife is in town again for the summer. Her husband is begging me to call and get her out of the house for a run/workout, whatever... Well, when I finally see her i say,"let me get your number and I can text you for a run." To which she responds, "how about I text you then you will have my number?" From this response I gather that she really isnt interested in running (at least with me.) Well, a few texts exchanges later (and no workouts mind you) we finally make a date to run some intervals. Turns out she wants to run the local 5k this weekend and cant make it past a mile... So, we meet at the track where my kids can play while we run. Honestly, I was really happy to run with her and just glad she finally called...
Well, turns out this workout was my gift... We did two easy chatty laps, then set our Garmins for the laps. 1:42 laps with walks in between. Not an all out sprint, but sustainable and repeatable. We did 4 sprints, drawing on each other to finish; me knowing she was behind me and her not wanting to quit. Two cooldown laps later, I was so glad we did this! Now, I dont mind running alone, prefer it actually, but to have someone with you for these repeat toughys was priceless.
Now, who knows if she will ever call back after this 5k Saturday- only time will tell... But for now, spent, confident and happy- I am glad for the gift, and appreciative:)

Busy Mommy Media RLAM giveaway

Running came into my life (seriously) after my 4th child was born. He was unexpected to say the least and the depression that came with him was equally surprising!
Running stayed in my life when I saw the sense of empowerment it gave me, and a feeling of control. With 4 busy children 5 and under, there wasnt much else I could control! I fell in love with the pure sense of accomplishment; setting a goal and reaching it all on my own… I may not be able to make my kids eat their peas but I can make a good stress reducing sweat in no time:)
4 years later, my kids are no strangers to playdates at the track. They have learned not to complain that we dont drive for any destination under 2 miles. It isnt weird for mom to be doing pull ups on the monkey bars (what, doesnt your mom do that??) Vacations almost always include some kind of race and yes, Mom plays chase to win! They know that it takes hard work and practice and determination to reach a goal. They have all been by my side as I have met and surpassed each one I set! Most importantly- they know exercise is a factor of everyday life; not weight loss or showing off or any other reason… Just because that is how we roll!

Pickin it up, Puttin it on- Stickin with it

BodyrockTV.com is my strength work for now. I love how the workouts are intense but not too long. I liken them to p90x without all the rest breaks... I feel worn after them but they can easily be fit into my day! So, three of those with 3-4 days of running and I am good to go. I also downloaded a daily yoga app and a daily abs app for my ipad. They are so handy. Absolutely no excuses to not do abs now, 3 minutes and you are sore and lovin it :)
As for the speedwork I was so excited to start... Well, it can only get better right? Actually my numbers were pretty good, but it was hard. Not that I wasnt expecting the difficulty, just I am really not in the mood (currently) to be pushed. I think after all the training, part of me wants to just chill and go woth the flow, even if that means a 27 minute 5k! To top it off I keep thinking about last years 2nd place win. There is pressure to pull one off again- and now my noncompetitive friend has decided she is competitive now and wants a medal too. Well, I cant let her beat me!! LOL
So, Smartcoach has been called upon once again. Strength training/stretching/foam rolling will not be way-layed; I am going to put up some times that I can be proud of. Its all about doing better than before, right? I got this!!

A Week of No Running

OK, I vowed to take a full week off from running... Monday will be 7 days; today is Friday. Hmmmmm, can I make it? Hahaha, I no longer want to! Tomorrow the sun will be out and the temps will finally be decent. I have to go! I am thinking 5 easy miles, 5 miles of empty thoughts and peace in my head. I can hardly wait!
Now, I have done great workouts this week. I am loving BodyrockTV! But they are not the same, I am sure you know what I mean... Matter of fact- tomorrows workout looks really tough and I am really excited for it! but running- outside- fresh air and alone- I NEED it!! Just thinking about it makes me happy, and when mama's happy...

Sun- half in Minneapolis
Mon- rest
Tues- yoga fusion
Wed- bodyrock Survivor workout, walk
Thu- bodyrock burpee/reptile challenge, walk
Fri- yoga and abs, bike
Until next week !!

Race for a GREAT cause!!!

Mommy's A Runner: It is GO TIME!!!! Race to Cure Diabetes 5K here we come...
mommysarunner.blogspot.com
http://mommysarunner.blogspot.com/2011/06/it-is-go-time-race-to-cure-diabetes-5k.html

What a great reason to lace up and get out there!! My awesome friend, aka Ultara, is putting on this virtual 5k to help raise money for Juvenile Diabetes Research. A great cause, and with your help we can get 3.1 miles closer to a cure!

Another One Down!

I am now home from my awesome adult weekend away in Minneapolis... My first trip away without kids and/or husband since I even had kids!!!! I loved every minute of it and must give props to my hubs for making it an awesome guilt-free experience! OK- kudos given, I can move on...
I had a blast with my friend Kim. We certainly got to know each other better! Just as great, I got a chance to meet RunninMama Bethany Saros! She is awesome! Waking, eating, shopping and just hanging out on my own schedule was a dream, lol!
Team Ortho put on a great event. I was really happy to see that the expo, start and finish line were ALL there right at the hotel. I love not having to drive/get lost/parking madness that can ensue with so many of these events ina large city. Great job on their part.
I was nervous about this course... I ran one very similar last summer that was seriously hilly! That being said- I was still hoping to make a PR and possibly even a sub 2 hour...
Start time was early but great. Excitement bubbling! The first 5 or so miles were great. Over and under bridges... I loved being able to see the 1000's ahead of me as well as the 1000's behind me. The last 7 or so were the same route as last year... It all came flooding back, lol! Not gonna lie- there were times I was questioning my reasoning for running this race. There were 2 good downhill portions where Kim and I took advantage and hit a 7mm pace. Unfortunately they were counterbalanced with more than 2 uphills where we were barely eeking out a 10 mm pace. Gotta say though- the mentality of this half, now having run a full, was totally different. Like when I hit mile 8, my first thought was, "oh man! Already? I'm almost done!" All in all, we lost the 2 hour pacer, but we were holding pretty good.
Then comes mile 11. I started coming apart here. By mile 11.5 I sent Kim on. It was obvious she had more in her than I did. Mile 12 came and so did the acknowledgement that I needed to get it going. Unfortunately, this is where a monster hill came too:( I tell ya, knowing you NEED to go and telling yourself, "get there! get there! get there!" and trudging up this 15% incline are two VERY conflicting factors! It seemed like everyone around me was throwing in the towel and walking this stretch! By now my Garmin says 13.1 and my head is saying done. Whose idea of a cruel joke is to put a finish line at the top of a hill? Ooooooohh mile 13..... Dammit where is that freaking .1?????
Finally I crest the HILL and see the finish line! Oh yeah baby! I may have missed my 1:59:59, I may have missed my PR even, but i was bringing this baby home. I charged, crowd was hooting and hollering and the Garmin pacer started with a 5!! Hoo, hoo, hooo,hoo- sprinting it in at a 5mm and smiling for the camera :) I even managed to close in on Kim by a mere 4 seconds...
As I crossed the finish, I accepted my medal, struggled to take in some air and willed myself not to puke! I was done! And now cant wait to do it again!
2:09:05 Not my best, but i feel it was my best that day...

Doin it again...

So soon too! I am preparing to run another marathon in a few days... Well, a half marathon that is! My friends family decided that they didnt want to drive the 5 hours to Minneapolis to watch her race. So, enter - ME! I am sooooo excited! This is my first adult outing without family since my 1st child was born!! And what an awesome way to spend it- running with 5000 of my closest friends :)
Together we are looking forward to expo-strolling, unencumbered dinners and kid/husband free shopping. Plus no guilt about taking our time and soaking it all in b/c there is no one waiting for us at the finish line!
I am nervous about the possibility of hills, the ITBS can still be bothersome... I also need to address the issue of pace. Are we expected to stay together, cross together? Or is it our usual "keep on keepin on" attitude that keeps us in the same vicinity but noe necessarily together?
I see it this way- if my knee acts up, i dont ecpect K to wait back. If the hills are too much for my tired legs, i dont expect K to stay back. But if her under training comes through- am i expected to stay with her? If our pace begins to kick her butt, well- you get the idea! Not sure of the etiquette here- hence the need to discuss it. See, she isnt competitive, but i tend to get caught up in the atmosphere and the numbers... A sub 2 hour would be awesome!!
Oh well, this race is for fun, friendship, and health! Let the day bring what it brings :)

Summer summer summertime!

Welcome back to summer workouts! You know, when the weather is just so great you cant help but be inspired to run/bike/walk/lift/swim, etc... Time to get up, pull on some shorts and head out the door- except there is one small problem (or in my case, 4) the kids are home from school. They are home ALL day, every day. Time to exercise the brain too!!! C'mon creativity, i need you more than ever!
So, today, i reaLLy needed to exercise. My goal was to get some strength training done BeFoRe i started with the housework. I kicked the kids outside and took my weights out to the deck. Now they can run, jump and scream and wont be under my feet, or in my ears! (yes, i am known to wear my ipod around the house!) Of course, i could have easily done this in the yard as well, no deck required.
3 of 12 weighted squats, alternating bicep curls and shoulder raises
3 pf 7 (or 14) walking lunges
4 of 10 pushups (MAN style, lol)
Many more sets of bi curls anf tri extensions
This is about 20 minutes and thats about all youll get in one sitting :) Time for some cardio...
I put the kids on their bikes and head to a vacant parking lot @ a half mile away. Once there i notice its about the size of a track, give or take... This could be a win-win situation! I manage to get 5 laps in before a skinned elbow ruins the fun :( Ahhhh well, i already feel MUCH better and i know this outing has earned me some kid-crash time later this afternoon :) Whats that?? A second workout later? Yes please!

26.2

Happy Dance, *do the dance, do the trance, do the hump/ oh do it baby!*

Not sure why that song is in my head, but who cares! I just ran a marathon :) I have joined the 1% of the population of the WORLD that can say that! I have been wearing marathon t shirts and accepting congratulations for 3 days now, and I still feel like I need to broadcast it more, lol! Perhaps fashion the race bling into a belt buckle, or a sweay band! (Now there is a money maker!)

Ahh, how to keep this short... Well- I can't- so if you have the patience to train you have the patience to read- stay with me!

Predicted weather was 85% humidity, 70% thunderstorms and all rain... Great- we are off to a great start; and my knees are hurting (bleep bleep bleepity bleep!!!) Hubs and I woke up at 5 to get ready and leave for the race. We were about an hour away, my mom was with us so we left her and the sleeping kids at the hotel. D got me as close to the start line as possible and dropped me off. The whole ride there the words, "what made you think you could do this??" kept running through my head. I didnt feel all that nervous, just doubltful. (However my last minute potty trip complete with wobbly tummy and shaking legs maybe meant I was a bit nervous!)

Onto the start line, rain was holding off. I met up with my pacer and checked out the runners I would be staying with for a while. Good looking bunch, ready to go! Had to laugh when for about 2 seconds we could spot sun and I swear a collective gasp of 3000 people could be heard for miles :) BTW- sun never did come out, but neither did the rain, so all good!

I decided early on that I was going to run the 1st 10 with no headphones, just take it all in. I quickly found out around mile 5 that I was just thinking WAY too much. So I decided to push play and go; Ahhh- nice tunes make for a nice stride. Hangin in around 9:15, perfect. A little ahead of my group, will afford me some walking time later.

This strategy worked until mile 15-17 when I started drifting behind my 4:15 group... I knew I had to let them go and just focus on myself. So- I did. Not gonna lie- miles 17-20 were pretty rough. I was feeling fine but having no clue where I am on the course was getting too me as was the wind... 25mph gusts are no joke! Legs were tiring and walking breaks were coming more frequently. I made sure to keep drinking and stayed on track with my nutrition...

Mile 20- a 10k left, Till I Collapse is on and I am feeling pretty good and able to run mile marker to mile marker with only a short walk at each; but my pace is mega slow- I didnt think it was possible to run that slow! And oh- Elvis is not dead- he is at mile 21 singing his heart out :)

The signs totally distracted me through mile 25... Did you know Giraffes can lick their eyes? And that fish cough? and that the couple with the "you are not almost there" sign found a way to beat traffic and keep reappearing along the course! By now, the super friendly people of Fargo are handing out beers (which some have already drank too many of ) and popsickles. So nice! Batman is really a traffic cop, and local kids give the best high fives! I am staying on task and doing well! 4:30 (goal 1) is looking not too bad!

Mile 25- I would like to say knowing I am at the end gave me a boost. But sadly, it did not... I had to stop twice and empty dagger-like rocks out of my shoes and I was tired! But the crowd picked up and I had to forge on, I was doing this!! I was really doing this!! Shortly I could SEE the Fargo Dome. (Unfortunately a gazillion turns made it farther away than I wouldve liked!) The race ends IN the Dome, (oddly enough the couple are HERE now, but have mercifully scratched out the not in their sign) it is kinda cruel to reach the dome and find you have about a .25 mile of snaking around to get the the back entrance to run in. But oh well, I hear someone calling my name! My friends from home- who trained with me for their 1/2 are waiting for me- oh God- dont cry!!! I pick up the pace and amazingly enough have the energy to "sprint" into the finish (if you call 8:20 a sprint, lol!) Lo and behold~in the seats just above the finish sign~ is my family!! Screaming and flashing their signs and just smiling away! I look up to the sky, and now the world is mine, I've known it all my life- I made it, I made it!

The LAST (long) run!

Well, at this point 8 miles doesnt seem long- but technically it is! I have assembled a good-size group today so the company will be nice. We are in jackets (darnit- Its May already!) and the wind is ugly... but I am training for Fargo, so I suppose I better get used to it!
Right off the bat I let the team know I will not be stopping on this run. I am Garmin free and will be running by feel, for better or for worse :) We all know the route- lets have some fun! So- mile 1 down and I hear the beep beep beep of a walk break from the Garmin, so I say goodbye and head down the road.
Best Run EVER!! I swear I could have gone on forever. Only once in a strong headwind did I walk for a (literally) 20 seconds or so. The rest was a steady pace that felt easy and awesome! My confidence for marathon day is soaring! I got this.... I GOT THIS!! Best I figure- I held a 9:30 pace or better... Really- I hate running without my Garmin now, I am such a number nerd! But perhaps the lack of checking times and going naked was what made the run so easy?? Hmmm, still like my numbers. Perhaps I will have to find a way to wear and hide the G so I wont fixate on it but still have the results at the end...
O.M.G. I will be a marathoner next week. A MARATHONER!! My grin is as big as the word :)

It's been a while

It's been a while

Wow! This whole training for a marathon/mom thing doesnt leave much blogging time, lol!

I have made it to TAPER time!! Woo Freakin' Hoo! I feel accomplished, relieved and just ready to go! Who wouldve thought I'd be craving the day I could pop in P90X for an hour and be done?!? I swear this training has been a full time job; BUT I am glad it is all working out this way. If it came too easy I dont think I would appreciate it all as much. (At least that is my *glass half full* take on it :)
So this week is a 12 mile run. I honestly can not believe I am saying, "Yay, I ONLY have to run 12 this week!" How absurd is that!
It went pretty well. I was running with a friend who wanted to do the 10:1 method; I am sure I have mentioned how I dislike that... It got really tough for her around mile 8-9. I convinced her to walk longer then just keep moving on the next interval... At mile 11 we split to finish up on our own. I took off at a much nicer pace and finished strong. Stayed just under a 10 m/m, so it all evens up in the end... Next- onto the easiest 8 miles of my life!

Last Long Run

I completed my last long run of training! I feel so relieved, grateful and proud to be where I am!! My original plan was to run 24 miles; that was updated to anything over 20. The weekend was calling for CRAPPY weather, but Friday was promising to be beautiful! I actually paid daycare for the 2 little boys so I could enjoy some warm sunshine :)
And man, was it beautiful! Mid 60's, totally sunny and just a great day. A bit windy, but not enough to complain about. I even wore a tank top!! (I was too nervous to run without my compression pants, or else I totally couldve rocked some shorts!)
I had no fear or trepidation about this run :) Even the sheer # of miles didnt daunt me. I just kept thinking of the runs in sections: Shorewood Drive first, downtown, lake- then back again... Seemed easy enough.
I ran the first 5 with no stops. Mentally- it wasnt even bothering me. At mile 6 I had my first bloks. Then I ran about 2 miles or so before taking regular walk breaks. I ate every 4 miles afterwards. No section of the run was less than a mile unless there was a hill- which I would walk; that was in the plan!
This time around- I didnt have the fear of pain when I began to run again. I did have to remind myself that running was actually easier than walking after about mile 13 or so :) My wonderful husband left a bottle of water on the flagpole at his office for me... so nice- my waterbelt was empty! And then I had to refill it again on the last 2 mile stretch! Despite the water intake, I was developing a bad headache:( And the salt on me! Holy moly- I looked chalky!
In the end though, the best part was that I didnt need to resort to the, "walk a song, run a song," trick. I felt strong enough to just keep going. I just KNOW that running with 1000's of others will help me stay even stronger!
I made it 21.25 miles. I would have been happy to keep going but alas, the bus with my other 2 kids was coming... I had to do the mom thing, you know!
SO- I feel ready. I feel confident! I am still trying to get times out of my head; just focus on a good effort and a fun day... I am so excited!!
Even after the past 16 weeks, I am still laughing that next weeks run of "just 12" is going to be easy! That just seems crazy!
But, arent all marathoners a bit crazy?!?!

EAsy Week AtTitude

So, I took a week off last week. With no long runs planned, I thought it would be a good time to just lay low on all exercise fronts. I did no weight training, only one yoga and 2 shorter (5 mile) runs.
Those runs- oh boy! I set off thinking they would be easy. And ended up disappointed each time because they were not. I was upset with myself b/c I walked. And really, really- at this point in the training- I should not have to walk any portion of a 5 mile run. And oh yeah, ate crappy too. I think the combo of diet and little exercise awoke the lazy dragon inside me. Everything took Herculean effort. Then I winded up sick. Some may say illness was coming on- I say I brought it on...
Now this week- having rested- I am back full force. I have my weekly schedule all planned out! Today I learned something, rather had something I blogged about earlier reassured for me:
Attitude.
So much of how we succeed in our endeavors is the attitude we approach it with! There is a balance. I dont think you can be "life is a bed of roses, my glass is always half full," ALL the time. You will get hurt or face disappointment. After all, roses have thorns!
I think the trick is to acknowledge what is hard, acknowledge what could go wrong- work through it mentally and prepare yourself to persevere anyway... Today I set out for an easy 3 mile run WITH the determination that I was not stopping! I run 3.5 with a group each week and damn near PR every time- there is NO need to stop and walk. period. So, with that mindset and last nights chapter of ChiRunning in my head- I set off. I knew after a mile I would contemplate a walk. I knew shortly after that I would be checking my pace on the Garmin. I knew a little after that, I would be mentally debating if I needed to walk, "are you tired-yeah, do you need to walk- that would be nice, NO keep going. but its been 2 miles now, you know you should walk some! Make it the next road then see how you feel, NO- I dont care how I feel- I will not stop, but..." Welcome to the insane argument in my head for every run I take! Can you imagine this for 22 miles? It aint pretty.
I was prepared for the littany and berage of negative comments today. And to each one the answer would be, simply, NO. I leaned into the run (from the ankles) and let my core lead the way. My arms and legs were simply along for the ride. I passed my turn point for my 3 mile, and kept going. Every time I wanted to walk- I checked my shoulders- pull them down. I checked my pelvis- even and not tilting. I checked my lungs and legs- easy peasy- All Systems Go- just keep running!
And I did, for 6 miles. I kept running. I know this late in the training for a marathon completing a 10K is not newsworthy- but it was a huge mental leap for me. My ATTITUDE has been changed! I now know I can do this marathon without walking every freaking mile (at least for the first 20, lol) And I know how to dig deep and make this happen!
I know how a bad attitude can bring me down AND I know how getting too cocky can cause me to fail. No run is "easy" if its not in you! Dont set out thinking it will be a no-brainer, that run will end up being the one to shatter your confidence!
Many people have equated life with running a marathon: its the process, not the end product; its not a sprint; enjoy the moments in between the strong start and heroic finish. And sometimes- take a mile for what it is- not what the one before it was, not the what the ones after it may hold- but for what it is alone. This moment in time- this minute- its yours. Dont let your attitude ruin it for you!

The Light... 22 miles

You dont have to be dieing to know of the light at the end of the tunnel, you just have to be a distance runner! Lately (because of the ITBS) every run is started not knowing if it will be completed. I have learned to adjust my mindset accordingly and just go as far as I can... However, there is a point in every run when you know if your goal is going to be met. Today my light shined between mile 17 and 18. I knew this run was mine, and that it was as good as done. Tunnel Vision= less than a mile ahead lay my trusty, tried and true 5K route, then a mile home... Ahhh, the feeling of impending success- it is wonderful. And for several minutes- you feel light as air and invincable. Alas, that feeling wanes when exhaustion sets in. For a few moments you can recall that joy and spread it around, but then its gone again. By mile 20 I am just putting one foot in front of the other... I believe my mantra was, "just keep moving, just keep moving, time to run again, keep running..." There was an odd combo of feelings going on at the tail end of this run. First there was the fear of pain. By mile 20 I am run/walking to songs. You know, run this song-walk the next one- run again, etc... Oddly, at the beginning of every run interval I just knew I was going to hurt. I was genuinely scared to take that first step! But after 2-3 steps I realized that not only did I not hurt, running took less effort than the fast pace walk! Second, was the extreme contrasts between physical and mental states. While running,yes- my body was tired, but I had to admit to myself that I was comfortable. My pace was easy and I was not struggling. This was counteracted by my mind that was even more exhausted than my legs. Constantly telling me, "Oh, you can stop soon and walk, cant wait to walk..." even though my legs and lungs were holding their own! It just solidifys in my head that attitude is over half the battle! I can NOT let my head get the better of me! Maybe when running this distance alone, you cant help but get a little too much into your own head. I keep telling myself that company of thousands (although not necessarily speaking to me) will help me keep my chin up. And lines of people cheering us on will keep my legs moving. ANd the wonderful time called tapering will leave my legs feeling a bit more rejuvenated than the endless ladder or mile climbing that is known as training... However, for the next 4 weeks- my head is all I have. And I know I need to work on it just as much as any other physical aspect of this voyage! Deets: Able to maintain a slower steadier pace with NO pain, not even a twinge :) However, walk breaks did occur- and of course got more routine as the run went along. I would REALLY like to work on that. Again- the head- hard to overcome- then the more I stress on keeping running the harder the effort feels... its like once the idea is in my head, you know?? Nutrition at 5.5 (3 blox), 11 (Gu chomps), 16 (Gu dbl cafffiene) and 20) Gu chomps). Tummy really revolted almost immediately after the run ended (couldve been AF symptoms - it was day 1 of her visit) So, the question that ends all runs: Could I have gone farther (drumroll, please....) YES! It wouldve been slow, and I wouldve been really disappointed with the time, but I feel I could have finished the 26 today if I had to :) Hip Hip Hooray!!‎22 miles, I am almost too tired to type! Sing it with me ya'll: SHORT run, LONG run, TaaaaPeeeRR! Has a ring to it doesnt it?!?

Summer Vaca's a Comin'

So, for good or bad, summer break is coming! So happy for the weather. So happy to be schedule free. So happy to be outside and playing and generally wearing the kids out... But, oh yeah, there are the kids. 4 of them, home all day, every day- for 3 whole months! Hmmmm, was it just last spring when I was telling my hubs of ALLLL the miles I was going to be able to run when summer came? How I was going to easily meet my goal of 1000 miles for the year? Big plans, big plans I say-- Put one or 2 in the BOB, the others on bikes- I could run miles each and everyday!! Then the reality... The kids arent too thrilled to take their bikes EVERYWHERE we go. J doesnt want to always sit in the stroller because he wants to ride his bike too! And "its too hot, too windy, may rain, I'm just tiiirrrreeedddd!" Ooh yes, its all flooding back to me now... Those 3 months nearly killed my 1000 miles a year goal. BUT- I did manage to learn some tricks that got me working out thru the summer, and kept me (relatively) sane- I would love to share! Bike trail: We have sections of bike trails that are closed to all motor traffic. I figured I could run sections of these trails while the kids rode freely on their bikes. Therefore, they werent following me, there was no yelling of "slow down, I have to be able to see you!" or "speed up, I am walking faster than youre pedaling!" Here is how I did it. I would load up the bikes in the car and drive to the trail section. Each child would have a packed snack and water bottle. The directions/boundaries were explained- and off they went. If they gave me my 30 minutes to do my thing- then they each got 30 minutes of alone time with me later that day. (This got them motivated thinking about all the things they could do alone with me without any pesky siblings!) Keep in mind- household chores will inevitably suffer on these days, but so worth it! Playground Workout: These random exercises will have you crawling home from the playground begging for naptime :) tunnel slide pushups- lay in push up starting position on ground with head facing slide. While your child is in the tunnel, play hide and seek while performing pushups. With each "up" a funny (or grimacing) face will have your kid laughing hysterically and they wont let you "hide" for long in the "down" position! swing squats- With each push of the swing, go down for one deep squat and spring back up in time to push again! pull ups- that one is a given- pretty easy to utilize the monkey bars! balancing lunges- most playgrounds have a border around them of some type. Balancing on the border- walking lunge down one side and back! plyometrics- hopping/jumping/leaping from one spot to another is an awesome workout and kids love to join in. Dont let them win, and practice counting while youre at it! tricep dips- any apparatus low enough to the ground that also gives you room to put your palms down- dip away. Letting your kid sit on you lap for a "ride" is just extra resistance! knee ups- hanging from the monkey bars- bring knees up or straight legs up (badass!) as many times as you can before your kid reaches you crossing the monkeybars from the other side. I guarantee you'll be begging for them to go FASTER! Interval Training: This workout can be done anywhere- walking down the road, playing in the backyard, puddle splashing in a vacant parking lot, you name it! Its simple- every minute or two- stop your regular activity and just go ALL OUT in some cardio or strength blasting! Dance your butt off while your kid sings the latest top 40 songs, drop and give 'em 20, jump squats (pretend your shooting hoops!), you get the idea :) I'll post more as my memory clears... I used these ideas all summer while my mom friends with fewer (and older) kids just "couldnt ever find the time to workout!" I really dislike excuse makers, especially when they really arent trying at all! Of course there is always the treadmill during naptime; and kid sharing- which is setting up once or twice a week swapping kids with a friend for an hour of uninterrupted alone time. Just remember, you have to take her kids once a week too! If you can do this with at least two moms, you'll get some really decent solo workouts in :_

I Cant Even Think of a Title...

So, as always- good news first :) I ran a 5K last night in just seconds over 26 minutes. What makes this GREAT news is the fact that it was easy. I did not feel like I was holding "race pace" or dying during a tempo run. So, that is good. Also good, I got up this morning ready to tackle my 6 miles today. I add this as good news because it is Wednesday- the day notorious for slacking... I practiced my slower pace and it felt great. I literally felt that I could hold that pace forever; until... (here is where the cursing comes in!) my stupid stupid *bleep bleep bleep* hip!!! I felt the tightning first, then the knee twinges, and all I could think was - I am 3 miles in, 3, just three!!! How am I ever, EVER going to make it through this training?? And when will I EVER run with confidence again???? (Hey! found my title :) I ran/walked the rest- holding most run portions for a mile, and finished the workout. I am just lost! Did I feel it today b/c I didnt do the ITB exercises yesterday? Is it because I stretched, but didnt foamroll last night? What I do know is this- I am running from my outer thighs. Not my quads and not my glutes/hams- but all in the hips. I check my form repeatedly and I just dont know what I am doing right on some runs and wrong on others. Arghhh- enough whining- gotta do the ITB series and roll. I have 2 days off of running and then 22 on Saturday. Eager, excited and scared to pass 20 this week! Hopefully some girls are going to meet me for the 2nd half, maybe that will help? Ish, just got nauseous thinking about it, LOL

17 Miles, take 2

Woo, feeling pretty good about this one! Gotta admit- I have been working on my ITB exercises, but did back off a bit this week. I only did the sets every other day with stretching rather than everyday... I was feeling good until Friday- knees were achy a bit. I am trying to decide if this is partly nerves and psycho sematic?? Anyway, my run Saturday was put off for a while. I was actually relieved to not have to jump out of bed and head straight out the door. By the time the afternoon rolled around- the weather was gorgeous and I was physically ready to go- but not necessarily mentally :( Not to mention I could still feel the knees and was starting out a run kinda knowing I wasnt going to be able to finish it. That is a crappy mindset to have! I met a friend a couple of miles in. We walked for a bit and both admitted "it" just wasnt in us today. And, I dare say - it was pretty hot! Anyhoo- we soldiered on and ran and walked on and off- holding on pretty well. She peeled off at mile 8 and left me on my own. I decided to run a mile ahead to the turn around point then make my way back, should get me to 15 and that would be good enough. I was physically doin' OK knee/hip wise. By now my left glute was balled up. I had to stop and stretch it out, but continued on. By mile 11- something turned- I was ready to go! I was actually able to hold a slower comfortable pace with no problem! All in all, I was excited and doing well. When I got back into town- I was 15 miles in and knew I could handle 20 easy- but alas, I had gone too slow with all the walks and had to head home. I ended up with 17 miles and feeling good, better to stop when youre ahead! Then the Garmin review: I am still only running a mile or so at a time before I break for 30-45 seconds. AND that ratio gets worse as the run goes by :( Second- I was soaring after my 16 mile run last time, and not so crazy about the 18 or 20. This has me wondering if my "wall" is 17? Simply- I gotta quit walking sooo much- its the kiss of death. AND- I need to stay positive as the miles go by, I start worrying about when the knee is going to give out and it sabotages me. I am hoping this run with no pain and ending on a positive note- will help me to get thru next weeks 22. I am so nervous breaking 20, just seems impossible- or at the very least- painful!!

What Makes A Great Run?

Hmmmm, let me think about that! Is it good company? a fast time? beautiful scenery? silence? an argument played out in your head? a perfect songlist? I could go on... so many variables come into play to make a good run. I can be trudging along, wishing the run was just done but then remind myself of how gorgeous it is outside and just try to enjoy the nature around me. Or I could be relieved that I am rounding the final corner when a song comes on that I just love to listen to and get lost in... pass my endmark- or call it quits and turn it off? Or is it simply a matter of time? You know, when you havent had the chance to run for a few days- when you do, it is awesome! Maybe time off from running is what makes running so great... absence makes the heart grow fonder? As many things as there are that make a good run- there are just as many that can ruin it if you let it. Yesterday I wore the wrong socks for my long run. What is the big deal with socks, you ask? Well, the were way too thin. Every grain of sand was a pebble just jabbing me in the foot. They were slippery allowing my foot to slide around in my shoe (hello bruised toes!) and they slid down the back letting my shoe rub a bleeding spot on my heel :( Now, ignore the fact that a blood stain on my shoe feels pretty bad ass- those socks alone could have made me call it quits...) Then there is the weather- here it gets mega cold. And when you are trying to have a good run but your toes feel like they are gonna fall off, your face just hurts from the windchill and the cold just seeps into your bones. Your only motivation to finish is the hot tub of water you can sink into when youre done! Of course it goes the other way too! Heat, it can kill the best of intentions. I for one love feeling sweat dripping off my elbows and down my knees but no doubt that heat can suck the life/energy and fun right out of a run! Then there is the mental game. Often times when I am thinking a run is hard- I do a physical check: shoulders down and relaxed? legs feeling good? lungs doing alright? If all of these are answere with yes- then I have to work hard to get my head out of the game, or into it- whichever one comes easier! Why is it that your mental stage plays such a big factor in a run? After all, building up speed and/or endurance is a skill right? And when a skill is practiced and honed 100's of times, you should be able to get through with little to no mental thought at all. Why doesnt it become an instinct? Sheer physical ability? I don't know the answer to this. For me, mentality will always play a part of running, for the good or the bad. So, back to the question: what makes a good run? Whatever it is for you, hold onto it. Use the motivation from it. Keep it dear and special, because if it goes away your left with nothing. My elements of a great run: 1. music- love it, gotta have it. I have everyone on my playlist from Elvis to LimpBizkit to Shakira! 2. sunshine- seems like you go for months here without it, I drink it up when I get the chance! 3. solitude- with 4 young kids, sometimes the only thing that keeps me running is knowing that more miles mean a longer break from home :) 4. badass-ness- you know, when someone you know drives by while youre in the middle of an impressive sprint... or your husband tells you how tough and awesome you are to brave the storm... or your friends are griping about losing the winter bulge and you are READY for a bathingsuit NOW!!

20 Miles!

I still cant believe I actually made it. On one hand, there is something to say for determination, but on the other hand- I was sure tired! I sat and rested about 10 minutes at mile 10 when I dropped off my friends. I was pretty sure I was just going to head home and call it quits at 14... Then I made up my mind I was just going to keep moving for 3.5 hours (that is the time I wanted to finish this run.) At mile 11, the hip pain spread to the knee :( Damn- thats it, gotta call it quits now. By mile 12, my hips had limited mobility and I was just seriously achy! Here is where disappointment was really settling in... if I am in pain while walking, then I am done for! Then, I dont know why- but I started to change my gait. I wanted to walk faster- running was still out. I started doing the old 90's powerwalk method. If you arent familiar, it is really small quick steps while really swinging the hips. (Yeah, I was well aware of how crazy I must have looked!) At first, this killed the hips, but I think each little sashay was like a little stretch to the old ITB :) Once I worked in the arm swing- I was moving a long at a 12mm. Knowing that some people run at this pace was a big load off my shoulders. Suddenly I just knew I was going to be OK- even if I had to powerwalk for miles! As I mentioned earlier, this gait really worked out the hips and now running was an option. I decided to do song intervals. And when I ran- I ran! No jogging along, run intervals were at 8mm or better, then back to the powerwalk. I was relieved at mile 15, only 5 to go! Then another loop and I was up to 18! I had this, I was going to finish 20 miles!! Then at 18.5 my family drove by- all the kids hanging out the windows yelling for me, man- I didnt even know how bad I needed that :) They were heading to (yuck) McD's and I told them I would meet them there. Ran some more, speedwalked a little, then finished the last mile strong! This ending was a mix of sheer determination and sweet relief! And when that Garmin beeped, and I looked down and saw 20.00- big fat tears sprang from my eyes. OMG- I did it! I did it, I did it- and no, I dont want to do it again just yet, lol! So now, the question that ends all long runs: Could I have gone farther? Given this speedwalking method (which I really wished I had used earlier!) I think... (drumrolllllll) yes, I could have! Pretty sure 22, maybe 23 would have been ok. Now, I am ready to tackle another long run. (well, not now) but next week. No fear my friends, no fear- just rest! Details: I took 4 GU Chomps (YUM!) and mile 6, then I took another 4 at mile 11. Mile 15 (I think) I took a GU. I think nutrition was right on par; but did forget the advil this morning, as well as the Aspercream on the knees :( Will try to remember it next week for sure!

In Preperation

So, tomorrow is a 20 miler... My route is all planned, basically 2 laps of a 10 mile route. I have friends joining me about 4 miles in, but will peel off at mile 12. Knees are feeling good, I am cautiously optimistic. I am not letting last weeks run scare me! Its all about attitude, and I am ready. In preps- I am un-guiltily eating bowls of my favorite (ack-sugary!) cereal and calling it carb loading :) Dinner is yet to be determined. Tomorrow I will dose with Advil again, aspercream the knees and back the IT strap just in case. I think I will mix the coconut water with gatorade this time, and plan on sticking with the same nutrition as last week. 3 blocks at mile 6, GU at mile 10/11 and 3 blocks at 15/16... Hmmm, maybe I will bring an extra GU in case- supposed to be every 30-45 minutes after the first hour, right? Yeah-I might need another GU. I am hoping to get this done in 3 hours 30 minutes... But I am not holding myself to a time or anything; just an idea. So- hopefully tomorrows update will be positive-No, tomorrows update WILL be positive and kick-ass; because that is what my run is going to be!!

The Impossible Exercise

Rationally, I know it is necessary, mentally and physically, for me to exercise. And I (rationally) know that I am setting a good example for my kids. And I even (rationally) know that my fitness level greatly benefits all my family in many, many ways: I feel better, I am nicer, I look better, I can play more/harder, I have more energy to do mom things way into the night, I am saving major bucks on therapy, for me and the kids... But, unrationally- I feel like I am drowning. Some days, ok all days, I make sure to get my workouts in. This inevitably means some stuff slides- laundry, bathrooms, vacumming... I know- you've all heard it before. Basically I am fine with that. Here is the thing I am not fine with (at the moment!) When I put in good workouts (with or without the kids), at some point in the day I want, no- NEED to take a rest. I need silence, I need not to be bothered... and this is an impossible exercise to perform in my house without the (dum dum dum...) GUILT! Sometime after lunch, inevitably- I want some down time. By then I have straightened up the house at least once, gathered and started laundry, made and served and cleaned up after 2 meals, vacummed, wiped down at least one bathroom and probably picked up some peed on pajama bottoms and stripped some beds...oh and worked out at least once (ran and PT exercises) all while carrying on a never ending conversation with my 3 year old and refereed umpteen pointless arguments amongst all 4 kids... I know- who wouldnt need a break? But when I sit down (like now) my first thought is, "awww, sweet relief- how I love to sit," which is quickly followed by, "oh, I need to eat lunch myself, I should start dinner- there is swim/baseball/scouts tonight, man- I really need to clean the other bathrooms, when is the last time I vacummed up here, if Derek were to come home right now- would he think my *job* is easy?" And on and on and on it goes... and then there is the more important stuff... the boys are playing video games/arguing- I should be down there. I should be teaching them how to handle these petty situations they get into better so that they will STOP the incessant arguing!! I need to work with C on his phonics, is J really ready for his prek next year- maybe I should make up some more homework for him, I need to get G's homework done and ready to go and M needs help with telling time... (I dont homeschool,but I do push my kids more than the schools do!) And now the real guilt, the secret no good mom would share- I DONT WANT TO! I just dont want to. I dont want to talk calmly but nicely to the little boys about sharing, waiting turns, and NOT hitting/name calling. I dont want to talk to any of them at all. I just want to sit here and stare at the wall. Why (here comes the whining I yell about so much!) caannnnttt IIIII juuuustt sittt heeeerrrreeee for 5 stinking minutes!! Why MUST I do all MY work at night after bed, why are ALL these petty little jobs mine to do, and only mine? And WHEN can I fully turn some tasks over to the kids as something for me to not ever worry about again. Clean your room- and I dont want to have to go check it! Brush your teeth- and do it well enough like you know how that I dont have to point out missed food to you! Put your dishes in the sink- and dont liet me find it on the floor or stuffed somewhere because you just didnt want to walk to the sink (but you'll walk 10ft past just to sit it on the playtable instead!!) OK, by now I am ranting. But I think you see why...So how do you do the impossible exercise? How is it you manage alone time (when not running)? Or- ahem- am I just asking too much? I feel like my "break" time is my exercise, I usually do it when the kids are otherwise taken care of (like in school) so if that is the case- do I not get "another break?" Is it so ballsy of me to ask for more? Or do I, gasp, not exercise and use my alone time to sit and rest... But- not running/lifting/etc... well- then Derek will inevitably gripe about that check I am writing for therapy!

Back on Board Baby!

OK, so last post was a little Debbie Downer! I know, I was tired, yada yada... BUT I am so amazed at how little my body feels beat down. I am not sore or anything! May have been all the walking I did, but regardless- it is nice to feel normal after such (lets face it) abnormal workout! Saturday after the run I did a whole bunch of nothing! Why lie, I stayed in bed for hours :) Sunday I walked laps around the parking lot my kids were riding bikes in and stretched and rolled. Everything felt in working order. Today- easy peasy 2 miles- did just under 4. Took a walk break after 2.5 and oddly enough, didnt want to start running again. ALL the worry of Sat. came rushing back and I insisted that I power thru and run the REST of the way home. This time- it worked! I did run the rest of the way and even forgot about wanting to walk again. Woo hoo! Got my 20 mile route planned out. It is a dbl 10 mile loop. Dont know for sure if it will help not being soooo far from home on my route back, or if running the same loop will hinder me mentally. But, hey, its all about mental toughness anyway, right?!?! One way or another- we will find out!

18 Miles!

Forewarned: This post isnt quite as positive as usual! In an effort to be completely honest about the ups and downs of training I dont want to sugarcoat it. I will try not to rant or complain, so read along!
First- gotta do the happy dance! 18, oh yeah, 18, oh yeah, do do dooooo! I ran (ehem... will get to the details later) I was on my feet and MOVING for 18 miles today :)
Now, onto the deets of the run... As you may remember, I am recovering from a bout of ITBS. Its been 2 weeks since I have run anything over 5 miles. And I have spent hours this week doing PT exercises, strength training and stretching. I have come to terms with the fact that this is just the way its gonna be to keep me strong and running; I'm fine with it...
Frankly running 18 today was a gamble! I had refigured my plan several times to make up for last weeks missed run. 18 would be awesome, 12 was a must! My plan was to run/walk the first 3 and really warm up the hips. All went well, had to remind myself to stop and break... But as the run progressed, it was harder and harder to start running again. I hate the 10:1 running plan, it just doesnt work well for me. But- in an effort to be super cautious with the ITB I followed it relatively closely.
I was elated at mile 9 knowing that I was halfway done with no pain. I was overjoyed at 14 knowing that I only had a short 4 miles to go! Here is when it got harder and harder to run after walking. And really really hard to hold that run for a mile at a time. I made great effort to not get frustrated or disappointed here! I reminded myself that training for the last 2 weeks has been sparse/not doing any run over 5 miles for 14 days is bound to take its toll. But still, by 15 miles I am running only .5 mile stints before walking... My legs were tired, but it wasnt just that- whole body fatigue was setting in. I often wondered if I just stopped moving for a moment if I couldnt pull myself together and finish this run strong, but alas I never stopped.
I finally reached my house and walked laps around my driveway. Somehow I knew it would be really bad to just stop moving. My lower back was aching badly. I removed my fuel belt and tied jacket and lo and behold the pain increased. Seriously- another kidney stone bad! Man- did I hurt!!
Stretched out, went inside, and sat. Wow- the joy of sitting :) Hours later- legs are tired, knees are a tad bit achy, but over all I feel fine. The run/walk method I believe helped with the soreness; but I may have a different report tomorrow! Honestly- this was the first run of my training plan that had me questioning my sanity. This is the first run of my training that has me questioning my ability to pull off this marathon. In short, this run kind of stole my confidence!
BUT, training as usual starts back Monday. Building my base back up will help with next weeks 20 miler... Now I just have to forget a little so that conquering next week wont be so scary!

pomp and circumstance

Preparing for todays run felt a lot like... gosh, getting ready for your wedding. Sooo many little issues to tend to... It occurs to me that it shouldnt be THIS difficult. I long for the days of throwing on shorts and a T and just heading out the door. This is the thought that inspired this post. One day (soon would be GrEaT!!) I will be sweating and wishing it wasnt so darn hot; so I thought it would be a good idea to document how complex dressing is in this land that God forgot. I doubt many of you run in freezing or negative temps as much as I do (and if you do, I am sorry!) so count your blessings now!

Phase 1- Injinji running socks, running tights, sports bra and wicking top.

Phase 2- cold weather jacket, smart wool socks and balaclava. (insert phone into jacket arm pocket) Strap on fuel belt- must be under top layer to keep the water from freezing during the run!

Phase 3-Cold weather gear running pants, Brooks running jacket, fleece hat, and finally my shoes! Insert earbuds before the hats, so as to avoid annoying cords swinging in your way...

Oh, and I should mention that hair really should be divided into pigtails and braided, because if not the friction from the balaclava will cause a narly rats nest in your hair!

See- I am not exaggerating! Craziness, right?? Now, arent you glad you live where you live and not here???

Excited

I am so stinkin excited about tomorrow's run its ridiculous! The weather is cold, my running partner dropped out, and I may not be healed enough to complete it- but dang if I'm not gonna try :)
I have been watching running form videos all day, especially chi running- and am ready to give it a try. I also ordered my new Karhu shoes and am expecting GREAT things! It seems like more of a minimalist approach is the way to go. I always thought that extra bulk and cushioning would ward off injuries- but research seems to suggest the opposite. Now, I am not going out and buying Vibrams or anything- but the Karhu seem to be a good start, then on to the new NewBalance 890s :) woo hoo, new shoes and a long run!!!

Chiropractor/ ITBS moves

Fortunately for me, the chiropractor I chose is a runner. She is currently training for a half marathon even (same one I am doing the full version of GO Fargo!!) Anyhoo- it wasnt all bad news, and she didnt say stop running, so yay! (Although I am sure any other chiro wouldve told me differently)
For starters, my pelvis was out of line... one side popped right in (or out?) but the other side was too tight to move. My husband will be happy to know my pelvis is as stubborn as my head, as is my belly fat, as is... well- I could go on! Secondly, my ankles were, hmmm- what did she say??- anyway one didnt do much but the other let out a nice audible "POP!" That alone would probably explain away my shorter leg!
Third- my ITs are just incredibly tight. She prescribed some more exercises to strengthen and continue on with the stretching/rolling. It is important that I work (even more) the glutes and quads and hams to take away from the tightning of the outer thighs/hips. But she agrees that tight glutes may have been what started this... I smell a conundrum! And lastly- this is VERY common. Yeah, I knew that...
So in true Terry fashion, I came home and did a killer leg workout. This will be my standard workout for legs EVERY day. It isnt that strenous, but there is a lot and it can get tedious :( I am feeling the need to do this whole thing twice, (probably b/c I measure kick assedness in sweat)but will wait and see how I feel tomorrow. Strength without cardio leaves me feeling like a slacker, which is why I usually OVER DO it and have to hobble for days afterwards. Going to try to be adult-like here and err on the side of safety. Blech!
ITB exercises
wall knockers 3 of 10
step downs 3 of 10
side stepdowns w/ pelvic tilt 3 of 10
side lunges 3 or 10
forward walk w/ bands until fatigue, then twice more LOL
side walk w/ bands until fatigue
side leg lifts/pilates moves 10 up, circles, 10 front, circles, 10 back, circles

Leg strengthners
lunges w/ toes out 4 of 12
ski jump squats 4 of 12
leg lifts back fatigue
dead lifts 2 of 12

Stretches
yoga routine with hip openers
pigeon pose
cross legs and lean to side
seated twisting pose
leaning stretch (lower leg raised to waist high surface)

If you want/need any info on how to do any of these exercises- let me know. Some are my own made up names, some are pretty self explanatory.

I am a Blonde...

Always have been (well, except for those red headed days in college, but still) the roots run deep. I blame the years/decades/centuries of blonde jokes for making me equate my hair color with my lack of common sense. Let me explain: I have been so concerned with what I have missed on my training schedule, that I havent really looked at what I have done. See- Saturday's run got cut short. Then I missed a run on Monday. BUT, I swam Saturday, I cross trained and lifted weights on Sunday, I cross trained and did ITB exercises (again) on Monday, and I cross trained and lifted weights on Tuesday. And then went for a run. It wasnt until I was logging the run on Dailymile.com (GReat SITe!!) that I realized my loooonnnggg break that "was sure to ruin all my marathon training and send me back to square one," was only 2 days. 2 DAYS!!!
This is why I dont heal completely. I dont see the forest for the trees. Or maybe I should say I dont see the miles for the feet, I dont know! Anyway- I have vowed NOT to run today, still thinking about Thursday... It really shouldnt be so hard (or detrimental- get THAT through my head) to skip a week and do OTHER stuff! OK, I am done for now on that subject...
As for Tuesday's run- it was great! 8:30 miles that felt comfortable, not race pace at all. No pain- walked some and ran a slower lap at the end- all was well. I feel the knees some today (go figure) but not enough that I think I an in trouble for this weekend. Now I am off to the Chiro for her take and see if I am out of alignement or anything like that... :)

Cross Training

Thought some pics of me cross training will keep me motivated to KEEP crosstraining. Because, you know, that may be all I am doing this week, GRRRRRR!

So, I will add shots here throughout my training of me swimming, biking, even rebounding (OK, that is fun- love exercise you cant help but smile through!) as well as lifting and what not... My kids take the pics, so be prepared for odd angles :)

A Fraction of 18

Well well well, My Michelle...
I rolled and stretched and rolled and stretched but I dont think it was enough. Whats missing? Time. Just gotta give the ITB more time. I set off for my run this morning with my partner and I guess I knew from the beginning what was going to happen. Once you have that doubt in your mind, there isnt much room for anything else. After 2 miles I could feel the hips tighten and minimal discomfort in my left knee (Odd- it was the right all week!) I knew when she finished her 5, that I would be finishing with her.
I think, no I know I made the right decision. Later at the pool with the kiddos- the legs were kinda aching. Ultimately I am happy with my decision, but bugger- I am disappointed. And yes, I keep questioning decision, "but nothing hurt when I was running, I felt fine, I probably couldve made it," BUT I would have been disabled ALL week if not more for just plain out pushing it too far.
So, I still have right at 2 months left. PLENTY OF TIME (the caps is for my benefit more than yours, lol) I have redesigned my game plan and I am pretty darn eager to get out there. And, what is the fun in telling a training story if you dont have an injury to champion over? And. I. Will. Champion... over this little, annoying, nuisance of a band.
Live and learn friends; Lesson # (uhhh. what number am I on???) DONT SKIP THE STRETCHING!! Dont do weights after Wednesday, and listen to your body. The only way to run a marathon is to RUN it- not limp it or walk it...
BTW- spent the REST of the afternoon zombie-like in bed. Feeling fine, just so tired/drained. This injury is in conjunction with Aunt Flo, so gonna cut myself some more slack than usual.

Ack! Is this an injury??

Ran with the group Tuesday night, knee did ok. I could feel it for sure, but not painful necessarily. I stretched and rolled and rolled some more. Come Wednesday morning, I could feel it more; decided to try out a run and just take it easy. Well, I ran for 1.5, then walked 1.5 home. Yeah- that went great (insert sarcasm!) Stupidly, I decided to pull out BOB and pick up the boys. After all, the sun peeked out for 5 minutes- what the heck, go for it! Dumb, dumb, dumb. Why did I think pushing 100 lbs in a 40 lb stroller would make my knee feel better? Dang it!!!! So, Thursday AND Friday will be nothing but stretch, roll and rest. Seriously- I am not even going to sneak in some lunges. I WILL NOT!!
I am developing a backup plan, however. Next week is my ez week where The Plan (LOL) has me dialing it back a bit. IF, if, if my ITB starts tightning, I am going to switch weeks. You know, easy and short this Saturday- back up to 18 next Saturday. I am feeling pretty good at this point, just want to get the milage in!

Dbl Digit Week!! Bring On 10

OK. I know my long run was just yesterday; and I know we have rest days for a reason; and yes, I even know that I am probably being waaaaay paranoid- BUT, I am worried about my runs this week. My knees just feel like it would be a bad idea! I have already decided I will blow off Tuesday's group run if they dont feel strong. Alas, Wednesday is a tempo. The weather is going to be (capital a) Awesome and I am excited to do the 6 miles. I just HOPE it doesnt do me in and sabotage my 18 on Saturday :( Foam roller is mi amigo, my best friend and I promise to stretch and eat well and yada yada yada if my body will just hang in there!

16 miles

*Happy Dance*Happy Dance*Happy Dance***** I just finished 16.71 miles!! Less than 10 more for a FULL MARATHON!!! I can see a light, bright and shining, at the end of this training tunnel!! Today my favorite running partner met me for 5 miles towards the middle of my run. Conversation didnt stop for that hour:) May have slowed me down some, but totally saved my sanity.
Lo and behold- I learned something new this week too! Despite missing my second strength session and despite my legs feeling totally fine and rested- I cant skip stretching! Can not, CAN not, can NOT skip stretching!! @ mile 12 I could feel the ITB; after mile 13 I had to stop every .5 mile and stretch:( But- made it, smiling, and not totally drained to the end!
For nutrition, I planned on Blox at mile 6, Gu at mile 9ish, and Blox at mile 13. Well, I all the good convo, I missed the mile 9- but still felt totally fine, great even!! I am so ready and excited for 18 next Saturday that I want to fast forward ahead. But, alas, I wont. I will rest, STRETCH, and strength train while biding my time for the. next. long. run!! (Said in Totally Drama Island style:)

On to Week 9!

I am getting there! Slowly but surely. I am so excited about my 16 miler this Saturday... I have never run that far before; definately exploring unchartered territory!
Today was an ez, slow 2 miles. It felt crazy to do such a short run; I overshot and ended up with 2.7- but the last .7 was a nice walk. I really can't remember the last time I just walked with no self-chastising or guilt :) I also did a strength workout. I am making every effort to end all strength sessions bu Wednesdays from now on. Hopefully this will leave me with fresh eager legs ready to move on Saturdays.
I cant believe I didnt come straight home and blog todays run... Well, its been 3 days, but it was awesome enough to remember! Plan called for 6 with 3 1600 intervals of 8:34. I thought it was a bit lofty, given my speed (or lack there of ) lately. Plus, I had worked all day and wasnt really feeling like a run. BUT--- I decided to just run fast as long as I could, if I made it the whole mile, great- if not- it IS technically still a speed workout. Results: 3 1600 intervals of (long dramatic pause) 7:49, 7:54, and 7:45!!!!! Ya freaking Hoo!!!! hot Dang- couldnt be happier with that!