Thankful…

I’m not quite ready to wrap up 2011 in a neat little package, still I can’t help but think how much I feel as though so many wonderful things have happened this year.

I don’t know whether more wonderfulness has actually happened in the past 364 days or I’ve just taken the time to acknowledge it.

Moot point, because I’m so very, VERY Thankful…

Some days we forget
To look around us
Some days we can't see
The joy that surrounds us
So caught up inside ourselves
We take when we should give.
So for tonight we pray for
What we know can be.
And on this day we hope for
What we still can't see.
It's up to us to be the change
And even though we all can still do more
There's so much to be thankful for.
Look beyond ourselves
There's so much sorrow
It's way too late to say
I'll cry tomorrow
Each of us must find our truth
It's so long overdue
So for tonight we pray for
What we know can be
And every day we hope for
What we still can't see
It's up to us to be the change
And even though we all can still do more
There's so much to be thankful for.
Even with our differences
There is a place we're all connected
Each of us can find each other's light
So for tonight we pray for
What we know can be
And on this day we hope for
What we still can't see
It's up to us to be the change
And even though this world needs so much more
There's so much to be thankful for

It’s A Start…

… for several reasons.

One, I wanted to try out my new techno hat [with built-in headphones] as well as my new SX UNIVERSAL COMBO HEART RATE MONITOR WATCH.

Yeah.  I’m not sure exactly how to ‘monitor’ my heart yet – but I’m guessing I’ll figure it out.  This being an ATHLETE is hard.  No wonder the professionals need coaches, handlers and personal assistants.

The weather was sunny today, with not much wind, but it was just above freezing.  Since I’m still getting over this CHEST COLD, I decided it would be best if I just walked it today.

1.72 MILE WALK IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD seemed to do the trick.  Although I had to backtrack because I had low-blood sugar and needed to eat a protein bar.*

I probably could’ve walked further – I know it was in me to do it – I just need to remember that I don’t have to accomplish it all in ONE DAY. 

Overachievement.  I haz it.

My plan is to begin HALF MARATHON TRAINING this coming Friday, December 30th.  I realize this program is 12 weeks long and has me doing a work out 5 days per week and as a 50 year-old, I need more rest days in between – so I know I’ll be modifying.  It was offered for free and I decided to take advantage of the program.  Simple as that – a way to motivate, share and stay on track.

Look.  If nothing else, I’ve made the commitment to be public about this – it wouldn’t be fair to me or anyone else to make it seem like this all happened magically.  It won’t.  I’m aware of that – but I’m also willing to say up front that I’m making an initial commitment.  Not a vague New Year’s Resolution…

Speaking of resolutions, where are YOU – any at all?

How about a little share-fest??

*I’m not only DIABETIC [no medication – managed with diet/exercise], I’m HYPOGLYCEMIC. I supplement with protein when I’m able and that works fine for me.  I don’t always recognize the symptoms in myself – but I always try to carry a protein bar with me.  Once I ate the protein bar, I was good to go this morning!

There Will Be…

This week.

I have a horrible chest cold and am miserable… and when Mama’s miserable, ain’t NO BODY happy.

It’s okay – it’s where I am that counts.

Let’s just get’er healthy, mkay?

It was…

… just a wee bit damp.

I didn’t care – it wasn’t going to stop me this morning.  Believe me, there’s plenty to distract me with the Choir Cantata coming up this Sunday and decorating, wrapping, baking and shopping to finish?

I figured I’d feel a whole lot better if I just got out there – and I do!

It was 53 degrees and by the time I was finished, pouring rain.  But for December 15th – I CAN STILL GET OUTSIDE AND RUN WITHOUT WINTER GEAR?

Oh yeah.

Count me in…

I’ll be honest, I’m scared.  I know there was more mileage in me today – but I’d planned to pick up just another mile since the last run of 2.12 miles the other morning.  I haven’t run over 3 miles since OCTOBER 24th, but I just kept thinking while I was out there – I have to be able to run 13.1 miles!

I know I have time, but I’m trying to wrap my head around it – I think part of my doubt is because I haven’t committed to a training schedule.  I need to have another LIPOMA removed from my calf.  It actually bounces when I run and is painful.  I was originally to have the surgery in early October, but that didn’t work out.

Can I run with it?  Yes.

Should I begin a training schedule and then have to take a break for surgery?? I don’t know.

Can I walk 13.1 miles?

Damned Right.

I’m a little banged up…

… and physically exhausted from MY LAST SHOW.  In fact, as I was pulling on my running gear this morning, I found a fresh bruise on my right leg that I didn’t know was there!

And before I go any further – I want to thank my Facebook Posse for helping to keep me accountable this morning.  I put out a call asking to give me reasons WHY I should get up and run this morning – let me tell you – each and every one of the folks who responded gave me excellent reasons.

AND I proudly lived up to that responsibility.  NOT FAST OR FUN RUNNING IN CIRCLES BUT 2 MILES DONE.

That’s how we get back on the horse.  Believe me – I’ll be calling on you again in the future.

Nuncrackers closed after Sunday’s Matinee.  What a hoot.  I love me some of the Nunsense Franchise.  This was my 6th production and I’d do it all over again for as long as I’m able to keep getting up from the pratfalls.  [NUN DOWN! Again?] I bruised my left arm/elbow every time!

I chose not to run during the production of the show because it IS such a physical show with all the choreography.  As much as I enjoy running on a regular basis for stress relief – I needed to stay focused and physically fresh for the show.

Now – back to our regularly scheduled stress relief for the Holidays!

Of course, there is that little incentive of: 144 days till the Pittsburgh HALF MARATHON!!

Gulp.

I believe.

Do you?

There Are Times…

… and performances when epiphanies just sneak up on you.

Actually, that pretty much defines: EPIPHANY.

But last night’s OPENING SHOW was so unusual for me.  I was a bit nervous.  Wanted to be sure that I got all my lines, choreography and didn’t hurt myself when I fell over on stage.  From a kneeling position, yes – ON PURPOSE [NUN DOWN!] and completely my choice.

But I remember thinking when I walked out center stage the first time I was introduced: THIS is why I do this – not the applause or the accolades.  Because it feels NORMAL.  It feels like home and what I’ve been waiting to do my whole life!

All those years of dreams and ‘living room dancing*’ just come together and you absolutely know without a doubt that you were meant to be in that exact spot at that exact moment in your life.  I never imagined all the training, rehearsing, the youth spent baton-twirling for whatever reason because I never wanted to be a majorette** – that those skills would be useful at some other point in my life.

AND who knew it would be on-stage in front of a live, over-appreciative audience with your fifty-year-old self dressed in a nun’s habit?

*Living Room Dancing: made up choreography in the comfort of your living room that you’d never thought would see the spotlight on a stage!

**I spent hours as a kid practicing in our yard, mostly because I broke stuff practicing in the house.

First of MANY?

… I hope so!

It’s no secret that there was a time in my life when I’ve been extremely overweight and unhealthy.  I don’t talk about it a lot because well, it just seemed like a normal part of my life.  I was always active, but obviously not as active as I should have been.

Then when I started to lose weight and the possibility of ‘running’ [which came to me from a series of unrelated sources] became a reality – my family has been so very supportive of my recent, no-other-way-to-put-it: OBSESSION.

I’m not even sure how the initial idea came about to combine a family run/walk on Thanksgiving morning.  But in our family, we’re all about TRADITION including beginning new ones!

There’s a small park not far from Grandma’s house, so we decided to meet up there AND PUT IN A QUICK MILE.  It was for me, for the cousins, for the aunts/uncles, for the kids, for anyone who wanted to show up and be supportive!

You know what?  It was a huge success!  A beautiful, balmy morning about 40 or so degrees and sunny!!

But I think the best part for me was just hanging out after and talking.  Spending time together getting caught up and sharing more than just a meal.  And presents.  However, NO PIE!

Now, my family tell me that I am an inspiration to them.  Personally, I don’t see it – but I want to publically say: THANK YOU for indulging my latest obsession.  It might not last the way FRIDAY AFTER THANKSGIVING MOVIE DAY has for nearly 34 years, but hey – let’s keep moving for as long as possible.  If Grandma can at 95 years young, so can we!!

Heads up – I’m calling you all out: 2nd Annual Grimm Turkey Trot November 2012

Drinks the night before – because who needs carb-loading??

Out Again Today…

… on this beautiful Saturday afternoon.

It wasn’t what I’d call a destination run – but it was outside my usual neighborhood.

The church 0rgan is temporarily fixed, so I headed over after lunch to practice for tomorrow’s service.  I figured while I was there – I’d try a quick 2 MILES AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD.

My RUNKEEPER APP WORKED FINE today.  I was able to do a 5/1* training run.  I was out there for 30 minutes, but because there’s HORRIBLE cell reception in the area – I had to edit the course map online.  There were all kind of CRAZY pings from satellite bounces that made it seem like I was running further and faster that I know is possible.

Well. For ME.

The exciting thing for me about this afternoon’s run was that it was a new area and I was challenged by hills, unfortunately dogs and it was also very windy today.

But I don’t mind – after being down a day with some nasty sickness – I put in a pretty good run.

I’ve been consistent about the short 2 mile runs – but I’m getting nervous about putting up some longer runs.

Patience, grasshopper…

*5 minutes of running, 1 minute of walking.  I’ve decided to try shorter intervals for the Half Marathon.

Technical Difficulties…

… via RUNKEEPER would not stop me this morning.

Neither would low blood sugar – I actually ran around the block and then back home so that I could get 1/2 a protein bar [THESE ARE MY FAVORITES FROM SAM'S CLUB] because I knew that I was in trouble physically.

I’m diabetic, but I don’t treat with medication.  I use diet and exercise.  I’m also HYPOGLYCEMIC. So I knew that I needed to get some carbs/protein in my system or just scrap the run for another time.  Luckily, half a protein bar did the trick.

I wasn’t out to set any records today – just get out there and see how I do in less than ideal conditions.

It was my first sub-40 degree run – I think it was actually about 34-35 degrees.  I think the key for me was NOT overdressing, but layering so that I felt warm enough stay out there and do the work.  I don’t like to spend a lot of $$ on ‘name brands’ – THESE LONG PANTS and LONG SLEEVED TEE from Wal*Mart did the trick. A light windbreaker, fleece hat and THESE TECH GLOVES [$3 at Wal*Mart] were all that I needed.

My Runkeeper app malfunctioned and I’m not exactly sure of the 2 MILE DISTANCE, but like I said, I was out there to put up some miles and not set any land/speed records.

Today…

Over Due Run…

… but it was worth the wait.

A GOOD RUN.

There are days, like today, when a run feels effortless. 

It’s difficult to explain – I haven’t quite figured it out myself.  When I feel like I’m slow or not making much headway, is usually when I am the fastest.

Other times, when it feels like I’m giving it a good effort and working hard – I’m usually slow.

So when I get a good day like today and the run just ‘happens’ – it’s VERY good.

I realize they all can’t be that way.  Last week I didn’t get in the runs I’d had planned.  I was actually sick.  Just a cold – but it made me feel miserable.  Believe me, if I thought I could run through it, I would’ve tried.  Instead, I rested up and began again this morning. 

I looked that hill in the face and didn’t balk.

WHAT HILL?

Bring it!

The Past Week…

…I’ve needed to take a break from running.

From training.

If I could take a break from the stress, I would.

One thing I discovered by this break – I still have a desire to run.  I will get back out there – but the most important thing right now is to take care of my family and myself.

I didn’t get to run the FREAKY 5K.  I’m not gonna make excuses – the weather [SNOW!] and the fact that Mom was being discharged after another surgery and 3 day hospital stay was also a major factor in my not running.

I summed up my decision this way:

Did I want to run? Yes.

Did I need to run? No.

That simple.  Family comes first.

I’ll get back out there soon…

I owe it to myself!

Combination…

… catch up post since I’ve been absent this week.  I’ve been out running and that’s a good thing!

SATURDAY'S 4.04 MILE RUN on the Montour Trail was a perfect Fall afternoon for a run.  Unfortunately – I was slow and not comfortable at all. 

I downloaded the new ios 5 operating system to my iPhone, I had to reload all my apps.  RUNKEEPER is what I use to keep track of my physical activity and since the upgrade to my phone, I had to reset my programming.  I did it on the fly before the run and normally run a 10/1 [10 mins running/1 min walking]. I programmed the 10 min run correctly, but the 1 minute walk got programmed as a 1 MILE walk.

I decided to wing it while I was out there – but it added to the stress I felt while I was out there running.  But, we need uncomfortable runs to appreciate the good ones.  It’s over, done and in the books.  I did it – doesn’t matter how fast – it made me realize that training for the PGH HALF MARATHON, it’s the distance NOT the time that should be most important.

MONDAY'S 3.49 MILE RUN was multi-tasking at its’ best.  I needed to make a bank deposit and get a 3+ mile run in and fortunately for me – I was able to combine the two.  One of our banks is close enough to our house that I am able to incorporate a good [and safe] running route.

It made me proud when the teller said: It’s a good day for a walk…

And I replied: It sure is – but it’s a GREAT DAY for a RUN!!

Initially I’d planned to take two rest days before Saturday’s FREAKY 5k RACE, but MOM WAS HAVING ISSUES FROM HER RECENT SURGERY and they had to clean/irrigate her incision.  [Successful!!] That threw off my training schedule for this week – but I made adjustments to my rest days.  Not really a problem, it was more important to be available for her.

Miserable weather conditions made me take THURSDAY'S 2.00 MILE RUN indoors on the elevated track.  Let me just say, I’m not worried about running in less than ideal conditions – but I also need to think about my own health.  It was a taper run in preparation for Saturday’s race.  I just needed to put up mileage and keep my body moving.  I didn’t need speed or hill work – I certainly don’t need to risk illness by being all Bad A$$ and running outdoors. 

Could I have run outdoors? Yes. 

Did I absolutely NEED to run outdoors? No.

I got in the run I needed to and I’m comfortable with that – I’m looking forward to the race in the morning – we’ll leave it at that!

Well Deserved…

… rest today.

I gotta tell ya, ever since I’ve gotten back from VEGA$, it’s been difficult to stay on track.  While it was a wonderful respite and vacation, the moment I returned, I picked up right where I left off with all my ‘responsibilities’.

Oh, I try to give myself goals and encouragement to run more races. I signed up for the FREAKY 5k and with a huge leap of faith, the PGH HALF MARATHON.

There was a time last week that I thought my schedule wasn’t going to permit me to run the Freaky 5k – but it looks as though that’s going to happen now – so I’m looking forward to it.

While I’m anxious [in a good way] about training for the Half Marathon in May 2012 – it seems so far away that it’s almost unreal.  I’m dreading taking my training indoors for the Winter – and with today’s weather [rainy, cold and the entire outdoors blowing sideways], I long for the warm, sunny days of running this Summer on the MONTOUR TRAIL.

I haven’t quite picked out a ‘training schedule’ yet because I wasn’t sure I wanted to start training immediately or wait and really do a 16-week training schedule leading up to the Half and feel like I am on a true schedule.

Indecision.  I haz it.

So right now, I’m just willy-nilly-ing it and choosing what distance to go for that day.

I haven’t had a LONG run in a few weeks.  Last week was miserable for running – I just couldn’t get away from the house for any length of time to complete substantial mileage.

I’ve been trying to get some biking in on the ‘rest’ days between running and it’s leaving me tired.  My muscles FEEL it.  I need more rest.

While I feel like I’m making excuses, I’m also keeping it honest.  Yesterday’s run was hard.  It wasn’t fun, it was a struggle.  I wanted to quit.  But I kept running and completed the distance I’d picked out in my head. 3.12 miles [5k].

Do I want to keep running?

Yes.  Yes, I do.

I think I’m suffering POST-GREAT RACE euphoria.

I need to get RE-focused.  Find new weekly goals and get on task.  Feel like I’m making progress and moving forward towards those goals.

So here we come Freaky 5k! 

Sub 44 mins – right?

It’s Strange…

… when I set the OCTOBER MILEAGE GOALS, I thought I was being conservative.

While I like to push myself, I didn’t want to stress myself by setting the bar too far out of reach.

I wasn’t sure how much I’d be able to get outside and do – or even if I’d have time to get to the gym if the weather wasn’t cooperative. 

I also never expected to get such wonderful bike rides in this month.

Just goes to show, I am not sure what to expect!

As of this morning, you can see on the ticker at the top of the page, I’ve already exceeded this month’s goal of 42 miles by over 9 miles.

And I’m okay with that…

I Honestly Don’t Know…

… what has gotten into me, but this running bug hit and it hit hard.

Yes, I ran the PGH MARATHON 5k back in May, 2011.  I was excited and stressed because I had so many doubts as to whether I could actually do it.  Complete the 3.1 miles required to cross the Finish Line.

I did.

At breakfast that morning, my young cousin challenged me to do the GREAT RACE 10k in September, 2011.  Again with the doubts and the stress.

But sometimes, you just know you’re doing the right thing even though you don’t know exactly WHY you’re doing it.

When my cousin caught up to me and ran with me part of the 10k course, it was a special moment.  So many people and yet – she found me.  That’s what I meant when I said that it was a special gift.

I think you see where I’m going with this:  5k, 10k, Half [13.1 miles].

So it shouldn’t come as any surprise that on Monday, October 10th, 2011 – I registered to run the PGH MARATHON on May 6, 2012.

My goal is to finish the HALF [13.1 miles].

206 days to train…

So What Was It Like…

… to run the Vegas Strip?

<---this was a shot of the North Strip I took from the top of the EIFFEL TOWER. Let me just tell you – I ran that strip like there was no tomorrow.

ALL 5.76 MILES OF IT. I took my time – I even wore my contacts [I don’t normally wear my distance glasses when I run] because I didn’t want to miss a thing.

The first couple days I spent in Vegas were recovery mode from GREAT RACE 10k 2011. [Let me just say, I wouldn’t advise going on a WALKING VACATION the day after a race. Less than 24 hours after ANY length race.]  I always do an amazing amount of walking in Vegas, but I don’t mind – there’s always so much to see.

I decided to keep myself on East Coast time.  It automatically happened this past January when I was vacationing then and I enjoyed being up early while the locals were up instead of all the tourists.  So it was no different this time – but I noticed something I didn’t notice before.

ALL THE PEOPLE OUT RUNNING.

I couldn’t wait to get out there and run – but I really did need to rest a day or so first.

Wednesday morning was the day I’d picked long before I arrived in town.  It was still dark, but I pulled on my running gear and went down to S*bucks to get my ritual morning coffee.  I’d made friends with the folks working there at the TROPICANA S*BUCKS, so I don’t need to tell you that when I stepped up to the counter to order and the manager I’d befriended said to me: are you back from your run, I was shocked.  No one had ever mistaken me for a runner before.

I was smiling before I ever set foot out of the building.

I started on the South Strip in front of the MGM GRAND and ran North to the ENCORE.  It seemed like an easy, straight shot.  Here’s the thing about Las Vegas: they don’t want folks crossing the main streets that intersect the Strip because of the traffic, so there are escalators and pedestrian bridges.  Instead of doing the 10/1 RUNNING, I simplified things by just riding the escalator, walking across the bridge and down the escalator back to the sidewalk and ran again.  Believe me, there were plenty of those bridges to cross!

I passed so many runners – I didn’t try to count but there were easily 50 that I passed that morning.  Here’s a cool thing I realized when I was out there running – a lot of the folks running were tourists like me.  BUT – a great portion of the other runners were CIRQUE du SOLEIL performers! Vegas is home to 8 Cirque shows, so it would make sense that they get out early and do their work.

Here’s one thing I learned about running in Las Vegas.  It’s the desert, you don’t sweat like you normally do – it evaporates before you even sense that it might be sweat. 

I celebrated with a VITA COCO COCONUT WATER that I purchased just before the end of my run.  Gotta be healthy and re-hydrate!!

All in all, it was an easy run – probably because I was distracted by all my surroundings.

What a sense of accomplishment – my run that morning.  I never even stopped to think that I nearly ran another 10k!

Great Race 20II…

… I think it’s time we talked about it.

I was enthused when I went to the Expo the day before the race to pick up my packet.  I love reading the faceb00k updates.  But let’s be perfectly honest here – I don’t always feel like an ‘athlete’.  It’s easy to become doubtful when I see myself surrounded by younger, leaner, faster folks.

Still – I’m proud of my accomplishments to date and I am planning to continue for as long as I am able to train to become stronger!

GREAT RACE morning came quick.  It was early, but the weather predicted clear, cool skies.I had picked out my gear and before I knew it – we were off to find a parking place near the Finish Line.  I made a pit-stop at the local S*Bucks just before the other racers discovered it. Whew.  I left my brother with his coffee and told him I’d see him at the Finish Line – in about 3 hours!

I wasn’t sure where the line began for the shuttle to FRICK PARK from PPG PLACE – but I walked at least 5 blocks to find the end of the line and was herded on the bus with the other runners.  By this time – the 5k had begun and there were folks on the last 3 miles of the course!

As I rode the bus out to Frick Park – I admit that I was intimidated.  It took a while for us to get there – I was surrounded by folks chatting with their seat partners.  I was standing and alone.  I just kept thinking how far IS IT to the Starting Line????

And then it hit me: There’s NO turning back.  The only way BACK to the car is to RUN – no matter HOW FAR – I had no choice.

If I was intimidated on the bus – the Starting Line was CRAY-ZEE.

Literally thousands of people.  Record numbers were running – something like 14,500 was the cut off.  Which – okay – lots, now imagine all those folks in line for the porta-potties.  Yeah.  JUST. LIKE. THAT.

But you know what? I was able to stay focused.  For as surreal as it all felt – I was able to maintain just an amount of enjoyable detachment and soak in the experience.  I had to – you just never know – it could be the First and Last time.  I wanted to remember it all!

I don’t LOOK intimidated – do I?

HA! Acting.

The Starting Line was on a down hill – a LARGE down hill.  When the gun went off – it was a good 1:00 – 1:30 before I crossed the Start Line.  I was anxious and nearly turned back for the porta-potty, but I saw the crowd ahead of me start up the hill and turn to the left and I knew it was too late and we were ON OUR WAY!

Once I made it up the first HUGE hill – it was mostly flat course.  I just needed to keep my head in the game and pick my own pace.  It’s so easy to get caught up in other folks’ rhythm and want to keep up with them.  I’m not kidding when I say: I was passed by thousands of runners.  They were  running their race – this was MINE to complete.

I settled in and next thing I knew, I could see CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY on my left. [Mile 2]  Theirs was the first BAND out to serenade the runners!The crowd was starting to thin as I made a right onto Morewood Ave and just as I made the left onto Fifth – my iPod played Bette Midler’s ‘Cool Yule’ – by then, I was hot and looking forward to the first H20 stop. [‘Cool Yule’ is the only song I remember playing that day – I was listening to the 10/1 COACHING more than the tunes.]  Low and behold – there was a PITT ENSEMBLE to play us on!!

Here’s the thing about H20 stops – there are a lot of cups on the ground.  If you’re a ‘back-of-the-pack-er’ like me, it can be mighty slippy.  [Don’t say you haven’t been warned!]  But I took two cups – one to sip and one to pour down my back.  Did the trick to cool me off!

I settled back down and just then, I looked around and it hit me – I WAS RUNNING DOWN THE MIDDLE OF FIFTH AVENUE. There was CHILDREN'S, PRESBYTERIAN [where I had my back surgery in 2008 and AND MOM HAD JUST HAD HERS THE WEEK BEFORE] and MONTEFIORE hospitals. [Mile 4]

Fifth Avenue in Oakland. In. The. Center. Lane.  I was going to remember this for a long time to come.

After I passed CARLOW UNIVERSITY, we made a dog-leg left onto the ramp to Boulevard of the Allies.  Just as I began down the ramp – I heard someone from behind call my name.  I knew a number of folks running in the race [including my cousins], but it was such a hectic start – I wasn’t able to meet up with any of them.

Low and behold – it was my 15 year-old cousin who had challenged me to run the 10k.

I’m telling you – THAT was a gift. 

Her parents were ahead of us and she told me that she’d been in line for the porta-potty and gotten a late start.  After I got over the shock of seeing her, I told her she could run ahead, I was slow, but I was going to finish.  She told me she was tired from a workout the day before for her HS Volleyball team – but she’d committed to run the Great Race.  She didn’t need to set a PR – just Finish. [My goal every single time.] 

We ran/walked the next mile or so together and talked.  I haven’t seen her since the PITTSBURGH 5k in May, so we had a lot to catch up on!

Mostly, it distracted me and that helped in so many ways.  We had a beautiful view of Mount Washington and the River.  We saw SMILEY just before we got to DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY stadium and another BAND!  It was also the last ‘hill’ before the descent into downtown.  [Mile 5]

Once we hit the 5.5 mile marker, my cousin took off for the Finish Line and I knew that after I passed POINT PARK UNIVERSITY it was just a hop, skip and a jump to POINT STATE PARK and the Finish Line!

I gotta tell ya, that was a lonely and hard last little run.  Most of the spectators on the course had made their way to the Park to meet up with the runners who’d finished.  I couldn’t stay focused on the surroundings because from street level, the buildings are so tall and dang it – it’s HARD to run and look up at the sky! [Mile 6]

As I rounded the corner onto Commonwealth Place, I was greeted by crowds... And cheers... And High 5’s…

Into the park I ran…

It was everything they said it would be – it still makes me emotional to think about.

I won’t kid you – 6.2 miles is a LONG way – even to walk.  But the adrenaline kicked in and I knew I was going to finish strong.

Clock time: 1:32:21. Chip time: 1:29:49.

AN AMAZING FEAT to be sure for my first 10k.

I did it…

So I Joined…

… this RUNNING GROUP. 

I’m a little nervous.  I don’t really every run with other people.  I’m one of those ‘lone’ runners.  Mostly because I run when it fits into my schedule.

But I looked into this group because it’s local and with the one year membership fee [$30] I get discounts on entry fees for the races I’m running.

Plus, I figure it wouldn’t hurt to put myself out there and really push a little harder.

So – first TRAINING RUN on Saturday, October 15th.

It’s free and if I don’t like it – well – then I never need go back.  Right??

Also – a good MORNING RUN around the neighborhood.  I bought a new pair of running shoes the other night and I wanted to test them out to see if I was going to keep them.  I thought about wearing them on the elevated track at the gym so I wouldn’t scuff them up and could return them if I needed.

It was TOO BEAUTIFUL to NOT run outside today.

Perfect.

Definitely a gift…

Let’s Set a New Monthly Goal…

…because while I didn’t blow SEPTEMBER'S MILEAGE GOALS out of the water, I did exceed them.

From 227.76 miles in August to 272.64 in September.

First, let me explain that I’m not making excuses, but September was a very difficult month.  MOM NEEDED ALMOST CONSTANT CARE for the first 20-something days of the month.

I didn’t get ONE bike ride in for September.  ALL that mileage was running with the exception of two leisurely walks.

THAT is much to be proud of – and I am.

So for October and the changing weather, I have not given up the hope of getting out on the trail again with my bike.  But I’m going to err on the side of caution and add only 42 miles for the month.

Doable.

TOTALLY.

What A Difference…

… a good STRONG RUN can make – at least mentally.

This week has been about two tapering runs:  ONE and TWO.

I felt very good about them that I’m comfortable knowing that I just need to keep my head in the game and get it done Sunday morning.

Am I excited?

Yes.

Nervous??

Yes.

When I’m running and I look down and see my ROAD ID BRACELET, it reminds me that now?

NOW I AM AN ATHLETE.

Not gonna kid, that’s a lot of pressure. 

But I am the stronger for it.

So Where Have I Been?

It’s been busy around here.

SO busy that even though I’ve tried to make time for running, I haven’t always had two minutes to rub together to blog about it.

Little bit by little bit, I’ve been trying to build up my MY STAMINA AND TIME.

I have been concerned that I just don’t have the distance for the GREAT RACE 2011 10k. But more than that, I’ve needed the running time to blow off the STRESS OF MOM HAVING BACK SURGERY on Sept. 17th.  Everything was up in the air until we could get that taken care of and I’m pleased to say, it is a miracle that it’s done and she is on the other side of the healing.

Then suddenly, I went out slow and IT BROUGHT TEARS TO MY EYES to realize, that perhaps, I really DO have the distance I need.

7.01 miles?

Let’s just call it 6.2 miles with all the G*P*S blips and glitches.

I’ll take it.

Slow and steady wins the race.

Run Faster…

… or start earlier?

With all the DAILY MEDICAL THINGS that are happening, I’ve found it difficult to get out and run.

When I have the time – it’s too hot.  When it’s cooler – it’s too late.

Granted, I could go to the gym – but with Mom still needing someone around 24-7, it hasn’t been possible this week.

Tonight’s run BEGAN WITH THE BEST INTENTIONS and ended up in complete darkness by 7:53pm?

Yes. Really.

While I admit that it felt good to get out there and run – I’m bored with my route.  I’m beginning to panic because I feel like I need to run a L-O-N-G-E-R distance on a more consistent basis to be ready for THE GREAT RACE!

Wait.

I seem to remember that same panicked feeling about wondering if I had the distance for my first 5k?

I just need to chill the heck out. ASAP.

My plan is to get one more long run in – hopefully over 5 miles.  If I’m able to do that – then I will feel comfortable beginning the TAPERING RUNS next week.

NEXT WEEK?!?!?!?!?!?!?!!!!!!!

It’s Something…

… but a LAZY WALK around the neighborhood is better than no walk at all.

Right?

Complete Misnomer…

… I am absolutely, positively STRESSED.

Not just a little.

A. LOT.

As you know MOM WAS IN THE HOSPITAL, but was discharged the other day. 

However, that doesn’t mean that she’s actually gotten any better.  In fact – we’re just trying to hang on until we can see the surgeon on Monday.

Because she needs constant 24-7 care, I haven’t slept more than 3-4 hours at a time.  I’ve also met with an entire visiting medical staff that’s going to be coming to our home to help with her care. Nurse, Aid, Occupational and Physical Therapists.

Don’t get me wrong, I will do all that I can to keep her comfortable until we can actually get the confirmation that surgery is the way to go. [All indications are pointed in that direction.]

However, it means that I’m not able to leave her alone. EVER.

Harry was off work for the weekend, so this morning after doing a back-log of errands – I was able to get myself together long enough to RUN FOR A BIT.  Don’t bother trying to follow the route – the GPS is completely wonky and I’m not changing it.  We’ll just chalk it up to getting out there and blowing off some stress.

You know what?

It worked.

Not exactly the mileage I feel I should be putting up for my first 10k coming up in 15 days – but for now??

I will totally take the victory I felt after my run.

It’s a Hilly Day…

… and my MY SECOND ATTEMPT at hill work this week.

It wasn’t horrible.  I was a bit slower today – but I don’t mind.  It was more about the work and not so much the speed for me.  Whatever was feeling comfortable during the run.  Sometimes it feels like I’m running much faster than I actually am and other times what feels very s-l-o-w turns out to be much quicker than I’d thought.

I also had to make a pit-stop after the first 1/2 mile at the house. I have mornings like that – what can I say?

Here’s something fun – I was tripling up on part of my route to do 3 hill repeats.  My second time around the parking lot I ran past three retired old guys who were on the sidewalk/lawn outside the V*F*W and they were chipping a golf ball.  I asked if they minded if I play through.  They giggled like little school girls.

The other cool thing – since Mom’s in-patient, we’re expecting her to be discharged today.  Just as I was approaching the 3rd hill repeat, my phone rang.  I took the call and continued to run the hill.

What amazed me was that I was able to communicate while I was running.

Running and talking -- who knew it was possible?

Oh yes – I am a Superstar!

Back At It…

… as I tried to get back on track from the weekend of all hell-ish-ness breaking loose*.

Today was a bit of hill work – 2 rounds – thank you.

MY TIME FOR THE DISTANCE was super fast.

Really.

It was a good workout in the rain and well worth it after 4 days off.

I need to keep working on increasing my distances.  I just can’t rub two minutes together this week.

I also forgot to register on-line for the GREAT RACE – so I actually have to snail mail my registration in ASAP. [Done.]  I had a brief moment of anxiety thinking that I’m doing all this training and I won’t be able to actually participate because I waited so long.

I’ll let you know if it comes to that – but I’m hoping that I’m well on my way to getting closer to the 10k Finish Line Jazz Hands…

*Mom was admitted to the hospital on Friday morning because of Spinal Sten0sis.  As I type this, she’s still in-patient and we’re hoping that the Doctors can get her the pain relief she needs to be mobile.

It’s a New Month…

… time to set some new MILEAGE GOALS.

Since I’m incorporating both my running and biking mileage, I’ve well exceeded my August mileage goal of adding another 30 miles.

In fact, I’ve doubled it.

Go ME!

227.76 miles in less than 5 months.  WOW!

So September’s goal is to add 40 miles to the total.

Completely DOABLE.

Just a Quick…

… walk around the neighborhood before the storm hit.

Is it wrong of me to be disappointed that I can bike twice as fast as I can run, but walk NEARLY as fast as I can run?

I didn’t think so…

If I absolutely HAD to walk the entire 10k race, I could and finish with something close to what I could run.

Doesn’t matter.  It was a good 1.57 MILE WALK, and I”ll take it.

I’m Not Even…

…going to mince words about it today.  It was definitely MIND over BODY out there on the trail this morning.

I can’t believe how difficult it was for every step of THREE POINT TWO EIGHT MILES.

The entire time I was putting one foot in front of the other, I was thinking: How in God’s Name am I going to run for 6.2 miles?

I will. 

I have done it before, I just have to wrap my head around it.

The good news about today’s run?

My pace was average. 

And by average, I mean faster than the past 5k’s I’ve run and they were with NO walking.

Keep in mind, my mileage/pace includes a minute of walking.  And when I say walking, I don’t mean RACE WALKING.  I mean a few moments of recovery for me physically.

I am seeing miniscule results in time/pace and I’m thankful for that – but what bothered me more than anything today was the fact that I still feel weak from being sick earlier in the week.  I carried a bottle of VITAMIN WATER with me and I’m ever so glad that I did.

The other side of the coin is that I really LIKE bike riding.  It’s easier on me physically, but I also know that it doesn’t burn as many calories. 

I think my body has figured out that I can bike twice as fast as I can run.

Ease On Down The Road..

…I admit it – I felt guilty for not going out for a run yesterday morning.  I’m starting to get antsy about the fact that I’ve got a 10k RACE coming up in a few weeks.

*gulp*

I just don’t feel like I’ve been training hard enough.  I’ve had several long runs, but not consistently.  However, I don’t want to beat myself up like I did before my FIRST OFFICIAL 5k RACE this past May.  I think I over-trained because I had the issues with my Nike+ and Runkeeper apps.  I was worried that I didn’t have the distance.

I know that I have the distance, I’m just inconsistent.  But I figure if I go out and get at least one long [5+ miles] of run in a week, I’ll be doing pretty well.

Regardless, yesterday I was completely under the weather and could barely get out of bed.  This morning, I was much better, but thought it best to just take a leisurely bike ride.

5.79 MILES OF HUGE SUCCESS, thank you.

A beautiful morning – quiet and just cool enough to wear a long-sleeved shirt and not be overly warm.

A girl could get use to this…

There’s Not A Lot…

… I can add about this morning’s run.

A respectable 2.10 MILES.

Not fast. Not really a scenic route. No major revelations.

In fact, had it not been for the fact that because of recent TRA1L RUNNING, I’d be certain to say that I’m not very fond of running on the roads around our house anymore.

It’s not that they bore me – it’s that they scare me. 

There seems to be a great deal of traffic and it comes at me from so very MANY different directions.  There’s not a sufficient shoulder on the side of the road to accommodate my feet let alone my entire being.

That makes me more than a little nervous.  Is it any wonder I don’t want to ride DASH on the road?

I did get to do the LADDER DRILLS on the railroad tracks again.  I have to say, that was the best part of the run.

I’m Not Sure…

… I’d made a decision to run 4+something miles when I initially went out on the trail this afternoon.

I was actually hoping to get out of the house early, but it was raining.  When I checked the local radar, I could see that it would pass in about an hour, so I figured I’d wait.  It’s not that I mind running in the rain, I don’t.  But the trail can get muddy and I don’t want to think about ruining $70 shoes before I get to race the 10k in them.

So yeah.

4.30 MILES.

I won’t kid you.  It’s still hard.  I find ways to push myself.  I walked two extra times during the last two 10 minutes intervals.  About 250 feet – just enough to get my legs relaxed and then I ran again.

Here’s what I learned today:

I look down when I run.  I have tried to correct this habit, but today, I realized I do it for a myriad of reasons.

• It takes the pressure off my lower back where I had surgery.
• I’m acutely aware of the uneven places of the trail/road. I don’t want to trip, fall and injury myself.
• If I look too far ahead, I defeat myself with negative internal talk.

Did you get that last one??

I rarely run on level, flat ground.  Usually there’s an incline on the trail, as gradual as it seems, when you look ahead, you can see how steep it really is.

However, if I focus 10-15 feet in front of me, I am less intimidated and am able to easily conquer a hill/incline.

FOCUS.

I haz it.

I’m keeping it.

Get your own.

I Was Very Excited…

… to take DASH out for a ride today on the unpaved section of the M0NTOUR TRA1L.  It’s been cooler the past two days, especially in the mornings.  The humidity has been down and I know the trail in this section is tree-lined.  I figured I’d be fine in the afternoon.

I wasn’t out for a LONG RIDE LIKE LAST WEEK, just 5-6 miles.

Wow.  It was an amazing afternoon.  It was easy to put my bike rack on the V*W and after adding a little air to the tires, I was ready to head out.

I love how easy it’s been to load DASH on the V*W.  I feel secure with the bike rack and it’s very sturdy.

I entered the trail at Ven1ce access point on Route 980 just up the hill from Route 50.  This section is easy for me to get to from home as well as which way to ride/run the trail.  I can cross the street to TAKE THE TRA1L TOWARDS IMPER1AL or BACK TOWARDS HENDERSONVILLE like I did today.

Only once was I completely creeped out.  There’s a tunnel called NAT1ONAL TUNNEL – while it wasn’t long, it has a bend and you can’t see from one end to the other.  Even though there are glow strips along the walls, is definitely PITCH BLACK in the middle section.

It was completely unexpected and I was a little weirded out because it was dark and I was alone:

I was fine, but it was creepy. I just kept my eyes ahead of me and literally looked for the LIGHT at the end of the tunnel.

All in all – AN EXCELLENT NEAR-SEVEN MILE RIDE.  I look forward to doing it again soon!!

At Least I Tried…

… Saturday afternoon, I couldn’t stay awake.  I never nap, because I don’t sleep well at night if I do.

When I was relaxing on the couch, watching a video, I couldn’t keep my eyes open.  I realized this was because my body was fighting some sort of illness.

As the evening went along, I was sneezing and my nose was runny.  It made the performance miserable for me – but I hit all my marks and didn’t bump into the furniture. [On stage – the bruise on my right shin proves that I banged into something back stage!]

I came home and took some over-the-counter sinus meds.  My performances for the week were done [off till Thursday] and I just needed to get through Sunday morning’s church service.

I rested all day Sunday after the service and when I woke up this morning, I was feeling fine.  I figured I’d head out for a run.

I need a long one – but I thought I’d take what I could get.

THAT'S ABOUT WHAT I HAD FOR TODAY.

I don’t consider it a failure.  I probably could’ve pushed it and ran a mile.  Or after my pit stop at home, COULD'VE GONE BACK OUT FOR MORE MILEAGE.

But sometimes, it’s not about the mileage… it’s about knowing when to rest and when to push*. 

Could I have pushed through and run another mile or two?

Yes.

Did I NEED to push today?

No.

I’m just fine with what I did – and it was FAST!

*There are always consequences when you ‘push’ through an illness.  Sore muscles, injury, time off for recovery. I’ve learned this the hard way by performing when ill – mostly out of necessity, but there’s always a lengthier recovery period that is needed.

It’s New AND Improved…

… After my first TRAIL RIDE the other morning, I noticed some rubbing on the back tire.  I hadn’t noticed before the ride and I couldn’t see where it was rubbing on the frame.

I don’t know about you, but after nearly 6.5 miles out the trail – having an issue and having to limp back with a broken bike isn’t something I relish.

The bike was a hand-me-down and I’ve had it for at least 6 years.  To be honest, it probably isn’t worth the rustoleum to take it in and have it serviced.

So I began bike shopping!

THIS WAS MY FINAL DECISION and it was based on a number of factors.  My old bike was heavy – I had trouble the other morning lifting it to/from my car.  [I don’t need to be adding a back spasm episode to my daily routine.]

I had gotten some $$ for my birthday and it was just the right amount for the purchase.  I even haggled a bit with the store clerk/manager.  They were able to match the online price to save me a few $$’s.

Here was my favorite part:

The employee helped me get the bike down from the top store display rack. 

She looks at me and says: So – You wanna take it for a test ride?

Oh yes I did… right around the Wal*Mart store!

FIRST RIDE ON THE TRAIL.

It’s True…

A SHORT RECOVERY RUN…

With Ladder Drills on the railroad tracks!

Yikes.

But you know, it was fast.  Faster than I normally am and I’m very, VERY pleased.

In Celebration…

… of getting the BIKE RACK for my Birthday yesterday, I slapped it on the back of my V*W and took it out for a ride.

A VERY LONG RIDE.

It was amazing.  I know I use that word a lot these days, but that’s the way it feels.  There’s just something so very special about riding as fast as you can without a care in the world.

I’ve not ridden that far in so many years, my behind is a little tender.  I’m going to have to either look into purchasing a gel seat cover or different seat.

Honestly, it no longer feels like exercise to be healthy physically.

It simply feels more MENTALLY healthy!

Recovery Run…

… was on the agenda for this morning.

IT WASN'T COMPLETELY BAD, except that I was having some potty issues and had to make a fast pit stop in the middle of my run.

It also looked like a bad storm was moving in, but there was never any thunder/lightening, I still adjusted my route and stuck closer to home.  I don’t mind running in the rain, but the size of the storm that looked like it was brewing [and eventually passed over] was fierce.

It was an emotional run for me this morning.  My last one before I turn 50 years old tomorrow.  While age never really bothers me, it’s more about the fact that I’ve only been running for about 5 and a half months! 

I can’t believe it and still refuse to call myself an athlete.  I feel slow and old sometimes.  And still overweight.  I realize that runners come in all shapes and sizes, while I don’t have a specific ‘size’ in mind for myself – I just don’t see an athlete when I look in my mirror.

Still – I asked for a bike rack for my car for my birthday.  I really would like to add more riding to my ‘fitness’ regime.

I worry about what it’s going to be like going back inside at to the gym this Winter.  I’m not looking forward to that prospect, I’m going to keep it outside as long as possible.

Athlete? 

Who knows…

I Wish I Could Say…

…it was easy. 

It wasn’t. 

However, it was emotional. In a myriad of ways.  I’m still amazed that I was able to actually do it.

A 10K! 6.25 MILE RUN!!

It’s true that I walked a lot – but I knew that was going to happen.  I picked a very hard route.  There were lots of hills – a road course that meant I had to really pay attention to traffic.

One of the things that sometimes bothers me about the roads [and running on them] is something that you’d least suspect:

Most of the roads around here are built this way – which is great for the run off and not really noticeable when you’re driving.

RUNNING?

Completely different story.  It kills my knees because I’m always running on uneven ground.

I had some serious aches and pains when I was finished.  A few tylen0l helps and the next day, I was okay.  Although, I really should’ve taken a steam/whirlpool.

I need to add that back into my routine!

I don’t care that I didn’t run it fast or that I walked towards the end a great deal.  I did the distance and that’s what matters!!

I Probably…

… made a hasty choice about what I did on the track today.  I made the choice mostly out of frustration and anger.

I was pleased to get a quick mile in this morning on such a beautiful morning!  There was a break in the humidity and I was excited to get out and run.

The BAND was out practicing and I was happy as always to see them.

I was having issues again with my G*P*S on my iPh0ne.  I don’t know – it seems to have trouble sometimes and have a mind of it’s own.  Don’t believe me?  Take a look at the MAP IT DREW OF MY RUN – Um yeah.  I know I wasn’t running in those crazy jagged patterns.

WHICH OBVIOUSLY DOESN'T HAPPEN ALL THE TIME.

I should’ve known there was a problem when my first 10 minute interval came to an end and it said that I had run 20 minutes.

Really?  REALLY.

I figured that I could just run another lap or so around the track and call it a day – I’d figure out the rest of it later.  The important thing was that I was out there working.

As I rounded the back side and started down the straight way, I saw that the band had taken a break.  One of the girls was standing talking to her friend directly in my lane.  She was facing me, so I knew she saw me coming – there was no one else in our line of vision and only one other runner on the track.

Suddenly, I realized the girl wasn’t going to move but she felt ENTITLMENT to the field [lane] and it was going to be a stand-off.

The closer I ran to her, the more I became incredibly irritated.  I was staring her down and she was looking back, directly at me.

She wasn’t budging.

I ran directly at her and at the very last second, stepped out of my lane to pass her, grazing her shoulder.

I didn’t stop.  I didn’t look back, but I can tell you this – I was angry.

I was angry at her disrespect.  I realize she had no idea who I was – or that I had been through that whole Summer-Band-Camp experience numerous times!

Even the 4 year old walking the track with his Grandmother knew to pay attention when someone was running/walking near him.

Should I have done what I did? Probably not.  Instead of being an adult, I was childish and reactionary.  But I can tell you this, I never would’ve done that to another person I didn’t know – adult or otherwise.