Monday, December 31, 2012

December in Review

I have to say I was much better about blogging in December than in previous months.  With that, I give you my stats for December.

December 2012 stats
108-- running miles
0-- walking miles
0-- bike miles
0-- pool workouts
1-- core fitness/strength training workouts
0-- P90x plyo workouts
108-- total miles
No idea-- weight as of December 31, 2012 (my scale battery died today)

Current 2012 stats
863.02-- running miles
13.1-- walking miles
18.7-- bike miles
3-- pool workouts
58-- core fitness/strength training workouts
1-- P90x plyo workouts
894.82-- total miles
No idea-- current weight (my scale battery died)

2012 "to do list" December check-in
2012 Running Goals
1. My number one running goal is to run a sub-1:50 half marathon
-I decided to give it a shot at my final 1/2 marathon of 2012 and I finished in 1:49:16.  I keep an asterick next to this time though as I don't know the exact course measurement.  Just means I have to run another sub-1:50.
2. Secondary to the goal of a sub-1:50, I would like to attempt to run another marathon PR (sub-4:10:11) with a stretch goal of running a sub-4:00:00
-I have come to the decision that I am not going to run a full marathon this year. With a goal of running a 1/2 marathon every month this year, I think it would be a bad idea to train for a full at the risk of getting injured.

2012 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
- 108 miles in December!  I am happy to finish on a high note.  This is also my highest running mileage in a month in 2012.
2. Run a half marathon each month
-Santa Hustle Cedar Point 1/2 marathon (1:49:16).  12 halfs in 2012 done!




2012 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Increase the amount of cross-training/strength training I do on a monthly basis
-1 strength training workout which only happened as a result of the snow storm.  90 minutes of snow shoveling.
2. Focus on choosing and cooking healthier foods
-9 well-balanced meals prepared in December with all of the holiday activities we attended.
3. Drink more water
-Success!
4. I promised a certain someone that if they ran a marathon with me I would learn to swim so I intend to make good on that promise this year.
-Sadly I did not have success in this area in December either.

I have to say I am happy with how December turned out.  Today I am thinking about my goals and mini challenges for 2013 and will be back tomorrow with a review of 2012 as well as my plans for 2013.

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Reflections of 2012

With less than a week left in 2012, I figured it would make sense to look back on the past year and see where I stand with the goals I set on January 1, 2012.

2012 Running Goals1. My number one running goal is to run a sub-1:50 half marathon--Check!!  1:49:16 with an asterisk since I'm not positive the course was precisely 13.1.  Not to worry though as I plan on achieving sub 1:50 again!!

Half #12 in 2012

2. Secondary to the goal of a sub-1:50, I would like to attempt to run another marathon PR (sub-4:10:11) with a stretch goal of running a sub-4:00:00-- Miss- I decided not to attempt this goal as to not injure myself while running 12 half marathons in 12 months.
2012 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month--Technically a miss--although I did run 100 miles in January, November, and I am certain I will do so in December with only 9 miles left to get me there.

2. Run a half marathon each month--Check!!
12 shiny 1/2 marathon medals


2012 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Increase the amount of cross-training/strength training I do on a monthly basis--Partial Check--  I did a lot more of this than I have done in the past but I still need to work on this!


Completed in February

Completed in March

2. Focus on choosing and cooking healthier foods--  Partial Check--  I did do a lot more cooking and healthier eating but I can still do better.

3. Drink more water--Check--  I am very pleased that I stayed on task with this one!  Hydration has always been a struggle for me.

4. I promised a certain someone that if they ran a marathon with me I would learn to swim so I intend to make good on that promise this year--  Big Fat Miss--  I don't have an excuse and with less than 5 days left in 2012 I have to let it go and try again. 

Overall I can't complain about 2012.  It truly was a great, funfilled year.

I will return soon with my December review as well as my goals for 2013. 

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

12 Half Marathons in 12 Months Complete

One of my goals for 2012 was to complete a half marathon each month in 2012.  It wasn't always easy to find half marathons to run and initially I figured I could just run 13.1 on my own or with friends and count it.  Of course that was short lived as I decided it would be even more awesome to run an organized 1/2 marathon each month and have 12 finishers medals to show for it.

January 2012
Rock N' Roll Arizona 1/2
Phoenix, Arizona
1:57:43

February 2012
Last Chance for Boston 1/2
Dublin, Ohio
1:58

 
 
 
March 2012
Rock CF Rivers 1/2
Gross Isle, Michigan
1:53:15


April 2012
Kentucky Derby Mini Marathon (1/2)
Louisville, Kentucky
1:53:47

May 2012
Rite Aid Cleveland 1/2
Cleveland, Ohio
2:06:17

June 2012
NCN Park 2 Park 1/2
Sheffield, Ohio
2:06:37

July 2012
Presque Isle 1/2
Presque Isle, Pennsylvania
2:10

August 2012
Minnesota 1/2
Minneapolis, Minnesota
2:14
September 2012
River Run 1/2
Rocky River, Ohio
1:58:45



October 2012
Columbus 1/2
Columbus, Ohio
1:59:56
November 2012
Rock N' Roll Savannah 1/2
Savannah, Georgia
3:47 (walked this one with my best friend)

December 2012
Santa Hustle 1/2
Sandusky, Ohio
1:49:16 (which is a shiny new PR!!)


At the end of these 12 half marathons, I am incredibly happy to report that I achieved my goal of running a half marathon every month in 2012.  Oh, did I mention that I also ran a half marathon in December 2011 in Vegas?  So technically I have run a half marathon a month for the past 13 months.  I am also registered for the Rock N' Roll Arizona 1/2 in January 2013 so that will make it 14 half marathons in 14 months!  Not too shabby!!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Santa Hustle 1/2 Marathon Cedar Point

My December half marathon ended up taking me to Sandusky, Ohio to participate in the Santa Hustle.  Myself and some of my Sunday morning long run buddies headed to Sandusky on Saturday night.  Susan and Amanda would also be joining us as they were driving in from Chicago Saturday morning.  Amanda's nephew joined us and he is a great kid and he became our event photographer.  I don't know how happy he was about it but he did it anyway.  Once we made it to Sandusky, we checked into our rooms and headed downstairs to packet pick up.  It was great being able to stay at the host hotel as everything was right at our fingertips.  When we got to packet pickup they had run out of Santa hats and beards but we were told we could pick them up in the morning prior to the race.  We had a picture taken with Santa and then headed out for some carb loading.
Left to right:  Amanda, Me, Kim, Santa, Anthony, Susan, Missi

We eventually decided on Chili's and then we talked strategy for the race.  Originally I was supposed to be running it as a training run for Rock N' Roll Arizona but a little part of me was hoping to break that sub 1:50 goal I had set for 2012 at my last half for the year.  I even asked Susan what she was thinking because I considering sticking with her and seeing if I could get that sub-1:50.  She was planning on running much faster so I decided against that!  I went back and forth about it the rest of the evening and figured I would make the final decision once I saw how I felt at the race start.  After Chili's we stopped by Friday's and chatted a bit and then headed to our rooms to get ready for the morning.  We woke up to gorgeous weather and none of the rain that had been predicted which was a pleasant surprise.  I kept going back and forth between a short sleeve shirt and the long sleeve race shirt that I would never normally wear on race day but it was a themed race afterall.  I was very happy when Missi and I went outside to get the Santa hats and beards because I realized it was quite windy and knew I should switch to the long sleeve race shirt.  When we were collecting the hats and beards I came across Jessica and we chatted for a bit and then I headed back into the hotel to finish getting ready.  Once we had everything together we headed downstairs for a picture or two.
Left to right:  Amanda, Kim, Me, Missi, Susan

As you can see in the picture, Susan had made tutus, but only she and Amanda decided to run in them.  I had gone back and forth about running in one but I was concerned about not being able to get to my fuel belt.  After the pictures we headed over to the start line and I was still debating what I wanted to do.  I did line up towards the front and Susan basically told me it would hurt but it would be worth it in the end.  I told her she was right and figured worst case scenario, I'm not feeling it and I back off the pace.  With very little fanfare, the race started.  I got out easily and didn't have to do any weaving at all.  I was feeling great and my first mile came in at 8:09 which was a good :14 seconds ahead of my required pace to go sub 1:50.  I decided to go for it at that point.  In fact my first six miles of the race were all under 8:23 pace.  I knew in my head I had to hit mile six in 50:20 and when I look at my watch the front numbers were still showing 48:xx.  We ran through the amusement park and there were a lot of turns but it was a fun course.  The next magic number I needed to see was 1:23 at mile ten. Sure enough I was under that time slightly at the 10 mile mark.  As the wind picked up and seemed to push me backwards, I was glad to have banked some major time over the course of the first six miles.  Right around mile 12, Amanda's nephew was there to cheer us on and he took a great picture of me which I think is still on Susan's camera as I haven't seen it surface on the internet yet.  I knew I was getting close to the finish as I could see the hotel so I did my best to push through the wind and finish strong.  I was incredibly happy when I crossed the line with a shiny new PR of 1:49:16 because I had met two goals.  12 half marathons in 2012 and a sub 1:50 half marathon in 2012.  I immediately saw Jessica again and went over to talk with her and get a picture with her.
Jessica and I.  I seriously look like a giant next to her.  Did you notice her race number is Christmas Day?
My Garmin as well as those of many others registered the course as short.  When I was talking with Jessica she mentioned hers came up short as well.  We did speak to the race director and he assured us that the course was certified 13.1 and all of the tangents likely caused the differences in our Garmins.  I feel as if I need to put an asterisk next to this PR but I earned it and I never lost the pace I needed so who knows really.  Amanda put it best when she said, just run a sub-1:50 again.  Okay then, look out Phoenix because I'm on another sub-1:50 mission!  We got a few more pictures before we decided to shower and head out to grab some lunch before returning home.
We got our hustle on

Pretty sure Santa was loving his job this past weekend

We clean up pretty good
All in all it was a great weekend with friends and  I accomplished my goal with this last 1/2 in 2012.

So how often does your Garmin or watch of choice vary from the posted course distance?

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Saturday, December 1, 2012

Reindeer Run 5K Race Report

The original plan for this weekend was to run my December 1/2 marathon in Ashland where I went to college.  Since arriving at this plan, I have started a new training plan for a 2013 goal race so my December 1/2 would fit better if I were to run the Santa Hustle 1/2 in Sandusky on December 16th.  No problem, there was also a 5K option at Ashland so I could still visit my alma mater.  Fast forward and I ran into both childcare and financial conflict so I had to seek out a 5K closer to home and that is how I ended up signing up for the Reindeer Run today.  I have run this 5K two other times.  One year I ran with my best friend Deb and my neighbor Brenda.  The following year I ran/walked it with my daughter.  Yesterday after work, I stopped and picked up my packet along with Kim and Jean's as we were all running the race today.


Race number and jingle bells for the shoes

I had talked with Kim and the plan was for us to meet at her house and she would drive as parking is always a challenge.  Once I got to Kim's we picked up Jean and then made our way to the race.  We had to walk a short distance from where we parked to the start as the parking lot was full already.  As we were walking, I saw Jessica and told her that I read her blog and she said "oh, hi!'  We continued walking and we saw our friend, Michelle, and said hello.  Once to the start line, I ran into my coworker, Danielle, and I talked with her for a few minutes before heading to use the restroom one last time before the start of the race.  I went back into the building to get warm and Kim was talking with a young girl who was running her first 5K and we realized she didn't have her race number yet so I went ahead and grabbed it for her and then Kim and I headed to the start line.  There were a lot of people doing the race so the start was incredibly crowded.  Eventually I was able to find a good pace and go with it.  I clocked mile 1 at 8:05.  I will take it with all the congestion that was going on.  I worked on increasing my pace after the first mile.  Seeing the leaders headed back towards the finish line was definitely motivational.  I had just finished a mile and they were just about done with mile 2.  Amazing!  I continued to try and run a challenging, yet comfortable pace and was happy with the 7:39 on my watch at mile 2.  Shortly after mile 2 I saw Jean on the course and said hello.  As I continued on into mile 3 my knee did remind me it was there when I would lengthen my stride.  I did slow down a bit and clocked mile 3 at 7:44.  With just .10 to go I tried to push it into the finish.  Overall, I did pretty well with that final push at 6:52 pace.  Perhaps the look on my face in this picture tells the story of that last .10 best. 
For the record, I did pass the guy in front of me before the finish line

Of course it's a good thing I didn't have another mile to run because there is no way I would have been able to maintain that crazy pace!  I noticed Jessica as soon as I crossed the finish line so I went up to her and formally introduced myself.  A few seconds later Kim and Jean finished the race.  I also got to see my coworker, Danielle, finish her race.  I knew I hadn't placed in my age group because the ladies in the 35-39 age group are speedy.  I was quite happy with 17th out of 127 in my age group.  Kim and I said goodbye to Jean and headed out for a little cool down run.  About 1/4 mile into it we ran into my coworker, EJ, and we stopped and he asked about my knee and we talked for a bit.  As we continued on with our cool down, the pain in my knee diminished greatly.  I was quite happy about that.  One last hello to another coworker, Kelly, and Kim and I were back at her car with an additional 2 miles run.  Overall, it was a great race with ideal weather conditions!!

3.1 run and done

 Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Friday, November 30, 2012

November in Review

Once again I only managed to blog one other time in November.  I swear  I need to get refocused on this.  Perhaps a goal to consider for 2013.

Here's a look at how November stacked up.

November 2012 stats
90-- running miles
13.1-- walking miles
0-- bike miles
0-- pool workouts
1-- core fitness/strength training workouts
0-- P90x plyo workouts
103.1-- total miles
158-- weight as of November 30, 2012

Current 2012 stats
755.02-- running miles
13.1-- walking miles
18.7-- bike miles
3-- pool workouts
57-- core fitness/strength training workouts
1-- P90x plyo workouts
786.82-- total miles
158-- current weight

2012 "to do list" September check-in
2012 Running Goals
1. My number one running goal is to run a sub-1:50 half marathon
-I will not be attempting this goal until 2013 and I have come to terms with it.
2. Secondary to the goal of a sub-1:50, I would like to attempt to run another marathon PR (sub-4:10:11) with a stretch goal of running a sub-4:00:00
-I have come to the decision that I am not going to run a full marathon this year. With a goal of running a 1/2 marathon every month this year, I think it would be a bad idea to train for a full at the risk of getting injured.

2012 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
- 90 miles run in November.  In addition I walked 13.1 miles so that puts me at 103.1 for the month.  I will consider that a success.
2. Run a half marathon each month
-Savannah Rock N' Roll 1/2 Marathon (3:47)--I made the decision to walk the 13.1 with my best friend, Deb.  I wouldn't change this decision for the world!  It was awesome to spend that time catching up with her since she now lives in Chicago.  Completing this half also knocked another state off our list of half marathons in all 50 states.

Deb, Nikki, and I at the start line
 

2012 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Increase the amount of cross-training/strength training I do on a monthly basis
-1 strength training workout-  one is better than none I suppose.
2. Focus on choosing and cooking healthier foods
-6 well-balanced meals prepared in November- not bad, we also had a few meals at my mom's house when we were there for Thanksgiving.
3. Drink more water
-I continue to have success in this area.
4. I promised a certain someone that if they ran a marathon with me I would learn to swim so I intend to make good on that promise this year.
-Umm...yeah....ummm....I only have 31 days left.......

I definitely increased my mileage in November and I am quite happy about that.  Of course the fact that I started training for my next goal race this month helped in this area. 

Up next is the Reindeer Run 5K.  Pretty sure the last time I did a 5K was back in June!!  It should be fun!!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Friday, November 9, 2012

Rock 'N Roll Savannah 1/2 Marathon Race Report

Thursday afternoon/evening
Nikki and I headed to the airport to fly into Savannah to meet Deb so we could all run the Rock 'N Roll Savannah 1/2 Marathon on Saturday.  This is the first time that all three of us didn't travel together as Deb recently moved back to Chicago.  It was a bit different but it worked out that we arrived within an hour of Deb so we just waited for her at the airport and then grabbed a cab to our hotel.  We stayed at the Holiday Inn Historic District.  It was a very nice hotel and the staff was incredibly friendly and helpful.  They give out bottled water to their guests at no cost which was a nice added bonus.  Once we were checked in we went up to our room and made a tentative plan for the rest of the weekend. 

Friday
We had breakfast in the hotel Friday morning and then I had to make a few calls to work to discuss the power outage and its affect on my products in the school kitchens.  Once all of the phone calls were made we went down to catch the ferry to head to the Expo.  While we waited in line we discussed our plans for lunch and dinner for the rest of the weekend.  Deb mentioned that we should probably head to Paula Deen's after the race as it may not be as crowded and we would be more likely to get a table.  We all agreed and Deb went ahead and made reservations for Friday's dinner at The Olde Pink House. 
Waiting for the ferry
Once we made it to the Expo we picked up our packets and did a bit of shopping. I bought an Iphone holder to go on my Ifitness belt and it really worked great on race day.  As we walked around to the different vendors and sample their products we realized how hungry we were so we decided to head back to the ferry line and stop at Vic's On The River for lunch once we made it back to the other side.  We decided to share a fried green tomato appetizer and it was very delightful.  I chose the Shrimp Po Boy sandwich and it was spectacular.  I had developed a pretty bad headache by the end of lunch so we headed back to the hotel so I could take some advil.  I decided to rest for a little bit and Deb asked me if I just wanted to rest for 20-30 minutes before we did anything else.  I must have looked pretty bad and I immediately agreed to the rest.  I was very relieved to realize my headache had subsided when I started getting ready for dinner.  The restuarant was right behind our hotel which was an added bonus.  Once inside we had a really great waiter, although his hair style did resemble that of Justin Bieber!  We all decided to try the Pink Lady, which is their signature drink.  It was a wonderful drink but if you aren't careful, it could certainly sneak up on you.  I had the seafood special for dinner which include angel hair pasta in a lobster sauce topped with lobster and shrimp.  It was also supposed to be topped with mussels but I am not a fan of them so they gave me extra shrimp.  Once again the food did not disappoint.  After enjoying dinner and wonderful conversation we headed back to our hotel to get everything ready for Saturday morning.  We decided we could sleep a bit later than usual because the race didn't start until 8:00 AM and the start line was literally right outside the front door of our hotel.  I slept pretty good until I woke around 4:30 AM to some noise, including a beeping smoke detector with a low battery.  At this point, I put  my ear plugs in and went back to sleep.  I guess the ear plugs really worked because I didn't even hear my phone alarm go off.

Saturday
Once the alarm went off I headed downstairs to the continental breakfast, which started earlier than usual due to the race, to grab some coffee, a bagel with peanut butter, and a banana.  I headed back up to the room and tried to silence the beeping smoke detector but I had no luck.  As we were getting closer to the start of the race I mentioned to Deb that she was going to need to get dressed eventually.  Shortly after this, Nikki was brushing her teeth so Deb started a converstaion with me.
Deb:  Nikki is taking awhile, so I am just going to tell you that I'm not doing it.
Me:  You're not doing what?
Deb:  The marathon today.  I am going to make it up and I still want to do all 50 states but I'm really frustrated and feel like a failure after Minnesota.  I haven't had time to train properly so I am going to come back and make it up.  I just want to have some time to train to improve.
Me:  You spent the money to travel here and to run the race, get up and get dressed.  I will walk it with you.
Deb:  You don't have to do that.  You should run it.  You are going to make me cry.
Me:  No, I am walking it with you.  That's what friends are for.  End of discussion.
Deb:  I don't have workout pants.
Me:  No problem, I have an extra pair.
At this point, Deb gets up and gets dressed.  We all head to the start line, jump the fence and wait in our corral.  Deb does tell me again that I should run it.  I reminded her that I had rolled my ankle recently so it was probably good for me to walk anyway, plus friendship is way more important than any time on a clock.
Start line right outside our hotel
We started the race running and stopped to start walking around the 1/2 mile mark.  I was really enjoying the walk and I was getting to spend quality time with Deb since she no longer lives in Ohio.  It was clearly a win-win situation here.  We were admiring the beauty of Savannah and discussing future race plans.  At mile 5.5 we came across a beautiful church.
gorgeous church
We continued on with our walk, had wonderful conversation and cheered on others.  At some point Deb mentioned that I should just run ahead because afterall she was out there so she was going to finish.  I immediately shot that down.  I reminded her that I was going to walk the race with her.  Just before mile 10 we heard someone go down.  We were both afraid to turn around because it didn't sound good.  We turned around to check on the runner and he was able to get back up.  A cute southern lady tried to break the ice by yelling out "that was a 9.5 on the fall scale".  It made for a good laugh.  Once we hit mile 10, our legs and feet suddenly didn't hurt anymore because we saw the most inspiring man.
Just amazing
He sat down to rest for a bit and as we walked away Deb mentioned that she wished there was a medical tent where we could swipe a wheelchair because that man certainly deserved to finish this race.  I don't know if he continued on to finish but my gut tells me he did.  Shortly after this my phone rang.  It was Nikki letting me know that she had finished and she was going to come back out on the course and finish with us.  I few minutes after we hit mile 11 we saw Nikki running towards us.  Deb and I both said, she's running, really?  We all kept moving forward together.  Soon after this, the full marathon runners merged with us so it was wonderful to be able to cheer them on as they went by.  Some of them looked to be in pain while others looked like they weren't even breaking a sweat.  We were just before mile 13 and I told Deb we would finish this how she wanted.  I said we could either walk it or run it.  She looked and me and said this is going to hurt.  We proceeded to run to the finish line.  It was wonderful to spend 3:47 minutes with Deb.  I am so glad that I didn't let her bail on the race.  I know her very well and I know she would have been more disappointed in herself if she didn't have the courage to start.  I am very proud of her achievement and let me tell you it is very hard to walk a half marathon and she doesn't give herself enough credit!  Once we collected our medals and some water we started our walk to Paula Deen's restaurant to put our names in for a table in the hopes of eating lunch there.  We made it to put our names in around 1:30 and we would be able to get a table at 2:30.  We took the reservation and then headed to Sweet Carolina Cupcakes for a tasty post race treat. Yes, we had dessert before lunch and loved every minute of it.  Afterall, I am pretty sure we earned it!
yum
Nikki decided she was going to head back to the room for a bit and Deb and I stayed at the cupcake shop and chatted with the worker there.  He was very friendly and Deb and I agreed that he would be fun to go out with.  Nikki made her way back to the cupcake shop and we headed across the way for a cold drink while we waited for our reservation.  At 2:30 we made our way to Paula Deen's and were seated almost immediately.  Nikki decided on the buffet and Deb and I shared a pulled pork sanndwich and a crab cake sandwich.  Our sandwiches came with jelly roll fries which were fantastic.  Of course I'm sure part of that is the fact that they are essential fried in butter!  We also had some potato ham soup.  The food was good.  It was your typical southern cooking.  I am glad that we got to have the experience though.  With lunch finished we headed back to the hotel to shower and rest as we had a 7:00 dinner reservation at Boar's head for dinner.  We spent the next part of the afternoon reading and talking and napping.  Once I was done napping I was following the Notre Dame game on facebook and through text messages from friends.  As 7:00 was approaching I tried to wake Nikki and Deb to no avail.  I decided we could just eat elsewhere if need be.  Once they finally woke up it was closer to 8:00.  We got ready and headed to Boar's Head to see if we could possibly get a table.  Fortunately there was no wait at all and everything worked out.  I enjoyed some she crap soup and shrimp scampi.  The seafood I had on this trip was by far some of the best seafood I have ever encountered.  Many people had told us to do a ghost tour if we had the chance so that is the last thing we did before calling it a night Saturday.  The tour was okay and I'm glad we did it but I almost think a daytime tour of the city would have been more enjoyable.  After the tour ended we headed back to the hotel to pack our bags for our trips home.  Bags packed and lights out for our 4:30 AM wake up call to get to the airport.
Sunday
We all woke up pretty easily to the alarm however none of us really wanted to get up.  A quick taxi ride to the airport and we were all headed back home.  As Deb was boarding her flight that left an hour before Nikki and I's she said "let's all register for Indy tomorrow".  We were all good with that as we had talked about it over breakfast on Saturday.  Although I asked Deb if that meant she wasn't going to do Phoenix in January and she assured me she didn't say that.  She was just mentioning Indy because we had all agreed on it! 

Once again it was a great trip with wonderful food and awesome friends!  State #11 complete...bring on #12!!

Monday
We all registered for the Indy 500 half marathon in May and I started my training plan for my next goal race.

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

October in Review

First I have to apologize for slacking on the blog lately.  I just realized I haven't posted anything in over a month.  I am going to try and be better about that in the future. 

Here's what October looked like.

October 2012 stats
36.4-- running miles
0-- bike miles
0-- pool workout
0-- core fitness workouts
1-- P90x plyo workout
36.4-- total miles
158-- weight as October 31, 2012

Current 2012 stats
665.02-- running miles
18.7-- bike miles
3-- pool workouts
56-- core fitness workouts
1-- P90x plyo workout
683.72-- total miles
158-- current weight

2012 "to do list" September check-in
2012 Running Goals
1. My number one running goal is to run a sub-1:50 half marathon
-I will not be attempting this goal until 2013 and I have come to terms with it.
2. Secondary to the goal of a sub-1:50, I would like to attempt to run another marathon PR (sub-4:10:11) with a stretch goal of running a sub-4:00:00
-I have come to the decision that I am not going to run a full marathon this year. With a goal of running a 1/2 marathon every month this year, I think it would be a bad idea to train for a full at the risk of getting injured.

2012 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-36.4 miles run in October-  It is what it is...
2. Run a half marathon each month
 
-Columbus 1/2 Marathon (1:59:56)- It was an all out sprint to the finish to sneak in just under 2 hours.
Marla and I before the race


2012 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Increase the amount of cross-training/strength training I do on a monthly basis
-1 P90x plyo workout-  major baby steps here but at least I got something done this month!
2. Focus on choosing and cooking healthier foods
-9 well-balanced meals prepared in September- not bad but not great.
3. Drink more water
-I continue to have success in this area.
4. I promised a certain someone that if they ran a marathon with me I would learn to swim so I intend to make good on that promise this year.
-Umm...yeah....ummm....

October has come and gone.  I can't same I am thrilled with my performance but I will certainly own it! 

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

September in Review


I am not so sure how it is October already but I will certainly take it!  With the start of a new month comes a month in review.  Here's how September shaped up.
September 2012 stats
76.33-- running miles
0-- bike miles
0-- pool workout
0-- core fitness workouts
76.33-- total miles
157.8-- weight as September 30, 2012

Current 2012 stats
628.62-- running miles
18.7-- bike miles
3-- pool workouts
56-- core fitness workouts
647.32-- total miles
157.8-- current weight

2012 "to do list" September check-in
2012 Running Goals
1. My number one running goal is to run a sub-1:50 half marathon
-Still havent attacked this goal and I'm not so sure I will do so before the end of the year.
2. Secondary to the goal of a sub-1:50, I would like to attempt to run another marathon PR (sub-4:10:11) with a stretch goal of running a sub-4:00:00
-I have come to the decision that I am not going to run a full marathon this year. With a goal of running a 1/2 marathon every month this year, I think it would be a bad idea to train for a full at the risk of getting injured.

2012 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-76.33 miles run in September-  I was much closer this month.  I'm perfectly happy with my mileage this month as I had some fantastic runs with some great friends.
2. Run a half marathon each month
-River Run 1/2 Marathon (1:58:45)-  It was a fun run with the girls.
2012 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Increase the amount of cross-training/strength training I do on a monthly basis
-0 cross training/strength training workouts done in September. Once again I have no excuse for this, I just didn't do it.
2. Focus on choosing and cooking healthier foods
-8 well-balanced meals prepared in September-  not bad but not great.
3. Drink more water
-I continue to have success in this area.
4. I promised a certain someone that if they ran a marathon with me I would learn to swim so I intend to make good on that promise this year.
-Totally slacking here too, and rapidly running out of days in 2012!

Overall, September was a good month and I can't complain!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Monday, September 17, 2012

River Run 1/2 Marathon Race Report

When I was looking for a 1/2 marathon to run in September, my thoughts immediately went to the River Run 1/2 Marathon.  I ran this 1/2 in 2010 with Jenn and paced her to quite a 1/2 marathon PR.  I knew the course well as we run in these metroparks most weekends and I also knew the scenery would be great.  With all of that information, I put it out there to see if anyone else planned to run it and I was happy to find out that many of my running buddies were planning to do so.  In addition, Amanda and Susan would be coming in from Chicago for the race.  It was going to be a great running weekend.

Saturday night we all met at Peppers for some necesssary carbo loading!  The food was great and the company was even better.  We never ran out of things to talk about.  Of course what's dinner without a picture!!
Ready for some carb loading

After we finished dinner, we all headed home to get some much needed rest.  Once I got home I set out my clothes for the race and called it a night.  I was quite alarmed when I woke up to a torrential downpour.  In fact, I commented about it on Facebook and my running friends assured me it wasn't raining near the race location.  We all made it to the high school to take the shuttle to the start of the race.  Of course the rain decided to make an appearance the minute we stepped off the shuttle.  Fortunately the restroom lines were undercover so we were able to stay dry and take pictures while we waited.
Ready to run 13.1

When the race started my plan was to stay with Missi and Kim.  I lost them on the course for a few minutes but I did run into Amanda and we talked for a few minutes and then I went on my way.  Fortunately I was able to find Missi and Kim on the course again.  Missi was looking really strong so my goal was to stay as close to her as possible.  At some point Missi got out ahead of me and I just kept her in sight and tried to catch up to her, which never actually happened.  I was pretty tired and was continually saying to myself "seriously Jodi, suck it up".  It worked to keep me moving forward so that was a plus.  I was pretty confident that I would achieve sub-2 for most of the race so needless to say I was very happy when I crossed the line in 1:58:45.  Definitely not too shabby with minimal training.  Once at the finish line I found out there were lots of PR's in our group.  I was so happy for each and everyone of them.
Lots of PR's for my running buddies
The metroparks backdrop never gets old

After we took some pictures and found out our results we headed our separate ways.  Amanda and Susan had to check out of their hotel before the race so they headed back to my house to shower.  After the three of us got cleaned up we headed out for a much needed lunch.  It was great getting to know the girls better over a delicious meal.  So what's next you ask?  My October 1/2 marathon of course!!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and  you inspire me!!

Monday, September 3, 2012

August in Review


Another month has come and gone and now we are headed into fall.  This could only mean one thing, it is time for another month in review.

August 2012 stats
32.32-- running miles
0-- bike miles
0-- pool workout
0-- core fitness workouts
32.32-- total miles
157-- weight as August 31, 2012
Current 2012 stats
552.29-- running miles
18.7-- bike miles
3-- pool workouts
56-- core fitness workouts
570.99-- total miles
157-- current weight

2012 "to do list" August check-in
2012 Running Goals
1. My number one running goal is to run a sub-1:50 half marathon
-Still havent attacked this goal.  I need to be more serious about my running/training to even consider being successful in this area.2. Secondary to the goal of a sub-1:50, I would like to attempt to run another marathon PR (sub-4:10:11) with a stretch goal of running a sub-4:00:00
-I have come to the decision that I am not going to run a full marathon this year. With a goal of running a 1/2 marathon every month this year, I think it would be a bad idea to train for a full at the risk of getting injured.

2012 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-32.32 miles run in August- Definitely a far cry from 100.  As I said in my sub-1:50 half marathon goal above, I need to be more serious about running/training to even come close to 100 miles in a month.2. Run a half marathon each month
-Minnesota 1/2 Marathon (2:14:26)- My August 1/2 marathon knocked another state off the list of 50!
2012 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Increase the amount of cross-training/strength training I do on a monthly basis
-0 cross training/strength training workouts done in August.  Once again I have no excuse for this, I just didn't do it.
2. Focus on choosing and cooking healthier foods
-7 well-balanced meals prepared in August- Same number of meals made in August as were made in July however I did make better choices as can be seen in my 1.4 pound weight loss.
3. Drink more water
-I continue to have success in this area.
4. I promised a certain someone that if they ran a marathon with me I would learn to swim so I intend to make good on that promise this year.
-I was attempting to "swim laps" in our development pool and my daughter said:  "You said you couldn't swim, but you are swimming".  I said not properly though.  I don't put my head under water.  I really need to take care of this mini challenge.

August wasn't my best month but I still managed to get up and move a few times so I have to consider it a success.  I started out September strong with a 10 mile run yesterday.  Let's see if I can keep it going for the next 27 days!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Minnesota 1/2 Marathon Weekend

This past weekend found Deb, Nikki, and I in Minnesota to knock another state off the list in our quest to run a 1/2 marathon in all 50 states.  We flew in Friday afternoon and headed straight to the Mall of America where I reluctantly agreed to ride the Fairly Odd Coaster.  Apparantely I provided great entertainment for Deb and Nikki based on my reactions during the ride.
Source
After riding the coaster,doing some shopping, and getting pampered at the nail salon, we headed to the Expo to pick up our packets.  This was a very small race so the expo was just some folding tables and wheels for rollerblades (there was a 1/2 marathon rollerblade race as well) which was fine because we were able to get in and out in just a few minutes.  With race packets in hand we headed to check into our hotel.  After freshening up we headed out for dinner, followed by a drink and then it was back to the hotel to get some sleep.  With the time change and the later race start we knew we would be able to sleep longer than we usually can for a race which was a nice benefit.

Race morning we got everything together and stopped for some breakfast to eat in the car on the way to the start line.  We made it to the start line with plenty of time to spare where we observed the rollerbladers getting ready and got our picture taken before it was time to go.

Craziness!  The winner's time was 36 minutes which is over 20 mph!!

Deb, Nikki, and I ready to cross off Minnesota!!

Within the first half mile of the race my stomach was talking to me so I decided it best to wait in the port-o-potty line before continuing on in the race.  Sadly my stomach would continue to talk to me throughout most of the race but it is what it is and sometimes you have an off day.  The course was an out and back so we were able to see other runners several times during the course of the race.  We were also able to see the rollerbladers which was incredibly interesting to me.  I can't even imagine how hard it was to blade up those hills because I know how hard it was to run up them!  I was very thankful for the course when I was able to see Deb and Nikki when the going was getting tough.  Deb even mentioned that when she saw me at mile eleven I wasn't looking so good.  Yeah, I wasn't feeling so good either!  I crossed the line in 2:14 feeling less than stellar.  I waited for Nikki to finish and then we headed back out on the course to get Deb.  We met her just past the 12 mile mark and finished the race with her.  It was really nice to be able to do that.  We also encouraged a young girl who was running her first 1/2 marathon.  She said she was praying for strength and then we came along.  I would say we were supposed to be there as I firmly believe everything happens for a reason.  After Deb finished we waited for the last people to finish the race.  It was an older couple participating in their 19th state.  Deb said she had talked to them on the course and they had wanted to quit but they didn't....very impressive!!  After all was said and done we headed back to the hotel to shower and then headed to Hell's Kitchen for brunch!  We were all very hungry and the food and atmosphere was very good although I still want to know why our server was wearing her pajamas!!  Feeling much better after eating we headed back to our hotel to rest for the afternoon.  Saturday evening we headed out to Bar La Grassa for a fantastic dinner and great conversation as usual.  After dinner we got everything ready for our flight home early Sunday morning and headed to bed.

As always it was a wonderful girl's running weekend with some great food, lots of laughs, and 13.1 miles sprinkled in!

1/2 marathon in all 50 states status:
#10 completed
Bring on #11 (Savannah, Georgia)

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!