Monday, December 30, 2013

December and 2013 Goals in Review


Yes, I do realize that there is a day left in December but I am 99.9% sure that I won't be running tomorrow since my best friend and her family will be arriving late this evening.  With that being said, a nice 10 mile long run yesterday brought my December training to an end.

 

December 2013 stats
56.03-- running miles
0-- spin miles
0-- jump rope fitness workouts
0-- core fitness workout
0-- Pure Barre classes
0-- Fitness App workout
0-- walking miles
56.03-- total miles

Current 2013 stats
1,314.54-- running miles
67-- spin miles (3 classes)
19-- jump rope fitness workouts
1-- core fitness workout
12-- Pure Barre classes
1-- Fitness App workout
9.69-- walking miles
1,391.23-- total miles

2013 "to do list" check-in

2013 Running Goals
1. First and foremost 26.2 under 4 hours--enough said
FAIL- I did end up running another marathon that I received free entry into. My goal was to run smart and listen to my body which I did. I also finished in my second fastest time (4:31:43) so I can't complain about that. I will have to try for sub 4 another day....



2. Achieve a second sub 1:50 half marathon so I can remove the asterick from my current sub 1:50 PR
FAIL- I came very close in March (1:50:43) but alas I didn't break into the 1:40's.   I didn't run any 1/2 marathons in December but I did run the Christmas Story 10K and had a blast with the girls!  We shall see what 2014 brings in this area!





Bick, Emily, Kim, me, and Missi



2013 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-56.03 miles run in December...oops that's definitely not 100 miles. 
PARTIAL FAIL- There were several months that I did run over 100 miles but I was not 12 for 12.
2. Run 1300 miles for the year
SUCCESS- 1,314.54 miles run in 2013!!

2013 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Cross-train at least twice a week
-This was a fail for December.  I had even told Kim that I would do at least one jump rope workout but that didn't happen....
ALMOST TOTAL FAIL-  There were definitely a lot more months that I didn't get any cross-training done in 2013. 
2. Complete a jump rope workout every day
-Not a single jump rope workout completed in December
FAIL-  This was a pretty short lived one...the streak ended before the end of January...so much for jumping rope every single day in 2013.
3. Drink 50 ounces of water per day (based on my current weight, this is my daily water intake need)
-Done in December and done well.
ALMOST TOTAL SUCCESS-  There were a couple long runs that I didn't hydrate properly for but I felt I was successful for the most part for 2013.
4. Take my vitamins daily
-Vitamin taken every single day in December (assuming I remember to take it tomorrow). 
 ALMOST TOTAL SUCCESS-  I believe there were less than 10 days that I forgot to take my vitamins in 2013.
5. Continue to choose and cook healthier foods
-8 meals made in December.
SUCCESS- I am quite pleased with my results in this area in 2013.
6. Learn to swim...better luck this year
-What's this swimming you speak of......
FAIL- I have no excuse....I didn't learn to swim in 2013.
Overall December was a great month.  While I didn't have 100% success with my goals and challenges I am still happy with how 2013 went. 

We were talking on our long run yesterday about our 2014 goals and I realized and verbalized for the first time that "goals" stress me out.  Therefore when coming up with my 2014 plans, I am going to try and come up with a better "term" for "goals".  I am open to any suggestions any of you may have.  I will be back soon with my "un-goals"?  HA!  Yeah, I definitely need to work on that one!

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

November in Review

My Gobble Wobble 5K on Thanksgiving morning with a whole bunch of my cousins brought my November running to a close.
Inside the building where it is nice and warm

Waiting outside with my cousins.  Yes, my cousin Rob is in shorts and military boots...brrrr!!

The November Details

November 2013 stats

70.4-- running miles
0-- spin miles
0-- jump rope fitness workouts
0-- core fitness workout
0-- Pure Barre classes
0-- Fitness App workout
0-- walking miles
70.4-- total miles

Current 2013 stats
1258.51-- running miles
67-- spin miles (3 classes)
19-- jump rope fitness workouts
1-- core fitness workout
12-- Pure Barre classes
1-- Fitness App workout
9.69-- walking miles
1,335.20-- total miles

2013 "to do list" check-in

2013 Running Goals
1. First and foremost 26.2 under 4 hours--enough said
-I did end up running another marathon that I received free entry into.  My goal was to run smart and listen to my body which I did.  I also finished in my second fastest time (4:31:43) so I can't complain about that.  I will have to try for sub 4 another day....




2. Achieve a second sub 1:50 half marathon so I can remove the asterick from my current sub 1:50 PR
-I wasn't planning to run any 1/2's this month but it worked out with Kaelynn's skating schedule that I could run the Fall Classic with some of my Sunday morning girls.  I didn't run a PR but I did run with Emily for the first 11.5 miles to help her achieve her goal time of 1:55.  I am thrilled to report that she finished in 1:53 and I was just behind her in about 1:54.  It was so cold that we have zero pictures from the event!  I'm pretty sure I won't be running a 1/2 in December so I'm thinking I won't be chasing that sub 1:50 until sometime in the future.





2013 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-70.4 miles run in November....oops!!
2. Run 1300 miles for the year
-41.49 miles to go to complete this challenge.  Definitely possible to achieve by year end.

2013 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Cross-train at least twice a week
-Partial success and partial fail.  I did successfully complete the November Triceps Challenge.  I didn't do any other cross-training during the month though.
I didn't pick a challenge for December yet and it's already the 3rd...oops!


2. Complete a jump rope workout every day
-Not a single jump rope workout completed. And...the trend continues...
3. Drink 50 ounces of water per day (based on my current weight, this is my daily water intake need)
-Done and done well.
4. Take my vitamins daily
-Vitamin taken all but one day in November.  Pretty sure I forgot the day I ran the "unplanned" marathon....go figure!
5. Continue to choose and cook healthier foods
-14 meals made in November .  I am very pleased with this one!
6. Learn to swim...better luck this year
-What's this swimming you speak of......
Overall I am happy with November and look forward to seeing what is in store during this last month of the year.

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Inland Trail Marathon Race Report

So after my less than stellar showing at The Erie Marathon in September, I did some research to see if there were any additional marathons I could run before the end of the year.  I was still wanting that sub 4 finish and felt like I had another marathon left in me.  I did secretly ask a friend her thoughts about my ability to run another marathon just a little over 6 weeks after Erie and left it at that.  Well fast forward a couple days and long story short, I ended up with a free entry to the race with the option of turning at the half marathon point if I so desired.  I liked this plan because it really became a no pressure race that very few people knew I was doing.  I truly did approach the race as a "Sunday long run" and not a race.  The bonus with this is that I had zero pre-race nerves or anxiety.  I was just out to enjoy the beautiful scenery on a lovely fall day in Ohio.  Since this was a very small marathon (52 finishers in the full), I was able to pick up my packet race morning.  As I am heading to find a spot to put my timing chip on my shoe, a woman calls out my name and of course I look at her and have to admit I have no idea who she is.  Within the first few seconds of talking with her I realized that I did in fact know her through a friend that I work with and remembered that her name was Colleen.  We chatted a bit and she asked me what my goal time was.  I told her while I would love to run a PR (who wouldn't?), I just wanted to run a smart race, listen and respond to my body and be happy with my finish.  One of my Sunday morning running buddies, Emily, was also there as her husband was running the half so I talked to her for a few minutes as well.  Colleen and I parted ways with Emily and headed outside to the start line.  As we were waiting I realized that I had forgotten to grab my sunglasses from the car and asked Colleen if she thought I had time to run and get them.  Her thought was that I didn't.  As luck would have it though, there was a small mess up with day of registrants and the start was delayed by a few minutes.  At this point, I saw Emily and I asked her if she thought I could get them and she indicated that she thought I had time.  I am happy to say that I was able to get them and return to the start line with a few minutes to spare before we were off and running.  I am so glad I chanced it because the sun was definitely present the entire 26.2 miles.  With minimal fan fare, the race started and so began my "Sunday long run".  I think a lot of people were excited as it seemed everyone went out incredibly fast, myself included.  I tried to slow myself down but it wasn't working which was evident by my 8:31 split for the first mile.  It was nice to see Emily a few times on the course as she was out cheering for her husband so I got bonus cheers from her!  I think it was around mile three or four that I came upon another runner and we started chatting.  I mentioned to her that she looked familiar and she mentioned that she was from Michigan.  It turned out that I didn't know her but we ran together until the 1/2 marathon point when she pulled away from me.  I never did catch her name.  I do know she was trying to qualify for Boston and needed a 4:10.  I do not know if she got her Boston time for sure.  All I know is that she did finish ahead of me so there is a very good chance that she did.  I was feeling very good and was glad to be able to high five Colleen as she was headed back after making the turn for the half marathon.  I can tell you that when I got to the half marathon turn, I didn't even consider it and kept on moving forward.  This was a success for me after Erie.  I wanted to leave the course after the first 1/2 at Erie!  I had taken a gel around mile 7 and it really did increase my energy.  When I got to the half marathon point on Sunday my time was 1:58.  I was feeling like I needed to take in another gel so I went ahead and took small sips of the gel throughout mile 14.  I did slow down a bit to make sure I also got an adequate amount of water with the gel.  I was definitely starting to feel the miles adding up and taking their toll on my body.  Upon getting to mile 18 my calves thought it would be fun to start locking up.  Instead of freaking out and getting upset, I slowed to a walk to get my calves to start to cooperate.  I had to do a run/walk several different times between miles 18-22.  I just went with the 3/1 ratio that seems to work for me.  I also took the time to enjoy the beauty of the trail at this point and snapped a few photos.

At the water stop around mile 22 I stopped because the pain in my calves was increasing.  The volunteers asked if I was okay and I mentioned that my calves were bothering me and they offered me vasoline which I found very odd.  I declined because luckily I always carry sample size biofreeze in my water belt.  I used the biofreeze and continued on my way.  Around mile 24 I came across a young man with his race number in his hand with his head down.  As I went by him he asked how I was and then I asked him the same question.  He said he was okay but he underestimated the marathon and said he should have just stuck with the half.  I ran with him for a bit and learned that he was from Toledo.  He eventually slowed to a walk and I continued on without him.  Maybe a 1/2 mile after leaving my new found Toledo friend, I came across another runner and we joined running forces so to speak.  We were both having issues with muscle cramping so we ran/walked the last part of the race together.  In the short time we were together I learned that she was from Columbus.  As we made the final turn I saw one of my good friends, that helps put on the race, and I mentioned to him that I felt like I was dying.  He said he knew but I should just hang in there because the finish was very close.  In the end I crossed the mat in 4:31:43 with a smile.  While this was by no means a PR, it was my second fastest marathon time and I finished 21 minutes faster than I did in Erie.  I really believe other than starting out too fast, I ran a smart race.  I listened and responded to my body as needed and got myself to another 26.2 finish line!  I didn't achieve my goal of a sub-4 marathon this year but I still feel that my mission was accomplished on Sunday.  I had a plan and I stuck to it and even had a great time doing it!  Oh and by the way, my Toledo friend did finish with a smile on his face!

Where do I go from here?  I would like to run at least one more half before the end of the year but I will have to wait and see if it fits into schedule or not.  Also, a few weeks ago, Emily asked me if I would consider running the Cleveland full with her in May.  At this point, I am leaning a little more towards yes but I haven't made a final decision yet.  We all know my history with the Cleveland full and to be quite honest, it scares me a bit!

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

Thursday, October 31, 2013

October in Review

My 7 mile "Time of Day Tuesday" run brought my October running to a close.  I was originally going to run today but the neighbors I was planning to meet decided to cancel this morning due to the weather which I was perfectly fine with. There's always tomorrow!

The October Details

October 2013 stats

122.92-- running miles
0-- spin miles
0-- jump rope fitness workouts
0-- core fitness workout
0-- Pure Barre classes
0-- Fitness App workout
0-- walking miles
122.92-- total miles

Current 2013 stats
1188.11-- running miles
67-- spin miles (3 classes)
19-- jump rope fitness workouts
1-- core fitness workout
12-- Pure Barre classes
1-- Fitness App workout
9.69-- walking miles
1,264.80-- total miles

2013 "to do list" check-in

2013 Running Goals
1. First and foremost 26.2 under 4 hours--enough said
-The best laid plans....a rough race and a finish time of 4:52....fail.....




2. Achieve a second sub 1:50 half marathon so I can remove the asterick from my current sub 1:50 PR
-I did run the RNR Cleveland 1/2 this month but sub 1:50 wasn't achieved there.  I am not sure that the opportunity to achieve this goal will present itself before the end of the year but I'm not counting it out just yet...





2013 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-122.92 miles run in October.  Mission accomplished!
2. Run 1300 miles for the year
-111.89 miles to go to complete this challenge.

2013 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Cross-train at least twice a week
-Partial success and partial fail.  I did successfully complete the 30 day wall sit challenge this month.  In total I spent approximately 46 minutes "sitting on the wall" in October.  I didn't do any other cross-training during the month though.

2. Complete a jump rope workout every day
-Not a single jump rope workout completed. And...the trend continues...
3. Drink 50 ounces of water per day (based on my current weight, this is my daily water intake need)
-Done and done well.
4. Take my vitamins daily
-Vitamin taken every single day in October.
5. Continue to choose and cook healthier foods
-16 meals made in October.  I am very pleased with this one!
6. Learn to swim...better luck this year
-Ummmm.......yeah.......ummmm
October was great overall.  I enjoyed "time of day Tuesday", running for the "love of the run" and mixing in hills during my Sunday morning runs with the girls (and sometimes boys).
Amazing sunrise at the top of one of the hills during  my last long run for the month of October

Hill running with the girls (and boys)

The beauty that is the Metroparks

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

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

What's Been Going On In My World Wednesday

It has been awhile since I have done any blog posts.  I always have good intentions to sit down and write a post and then I get distracted by something and the blog falls to the wayside once again.  With that said, here's what has been going on in my world.

Every Tuesday since my marathon I have been making a valid effort to run for a set amount of time and just enjoy the "love of the run".  I have been able to do this every week so far.  I pick a length of time I want to run and then I start my watch and switch the screen so it shows the time of day only.  The best part of these runs is seeing my distance and pace at the end.  It is very therapeutic and I recommend everyone try it at least once!
Time of Day Tuesday!!

I had no intentions of running the Inaugural Cleveland RNR 1/2 Marathon but since I found a discount coupon and most of my Sunday morning running buddies would be there, I decided to go ahead and register for it.  The original plan was to aim for a finish time around 2 hours.  Let's just say the hills took their toll on me and I finished with a 2:05 or so.  I was happy with that for a training run.  I also helped a co-worker I came across at mile 11.  I ended up run/walking with him to the finish because he was in a world of pain.  I was happy to pay it forward.  There have been many races where other runners have done the same for me!
Let's Rock

Let's Roll

I am not a huge fan of hill running but I have to admit I am starting to enjoy running them.  Dare I say it's fun?!?!  On Sunday the plan was to get a long run in and run some hills during the course of the run.  Some hills turned into six hills total.  I was not a happy runner going up the hills but once to the top, it was so worth it.  The views were just amazing!  I can't say enough about the beauty of running in the Metroparks.  It also helps to have amazing people to run with.  We also managed to convert our friend Emily to an outdoor runner from a treadmill runner!  There were times that I wanted to hurt our friend John when he would push the pace.  Truth be told, I made myself keep up with him because I know it makes me a stronger runner.  Patty, Tony, and Dan are great motivators as well with their encouraging words as we power up the hills!  Just an awesome group of friends that enjoy sharing their love of running with each other!  I think Missi described it best when she captioned our photo:  "11 miles of hills and high-fives".
The only thing missing from this picture is Missi, she was behind the camera!

Just gorgeous!

Yesterday was Tuesday so the watch was set to time of day again and I actually embraced the hills that I encountered.  I may have even said they were a nice bonus.  My friend Kim asked me who I was with that comment!  I told her she was bringing me over to the dark side (hill running).
At the top of one of the hills we conquer (this photo was taken a week after my marathon)

 Finally, it appears some of my running friends and I are famous!  We got an email to sign up for the Santa Hustle 1/2 Marathon in December and sure enough we are the featured photo in the ad!  I am not sure I would have noticed it if I just looked at the email but I had 13 text messages waiting for me after my run yesterday with our photo included!  Go us! 
Who wants our autograph?  HA!
So, that's what has been going on in my world!  What has everyone else been up to?

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

Monday, September 30, 2013

September in Review

 
An awesome experience at my first trail run yesterday with my Sunday morning running buddies brought my September training to an end.  Trail running truly is great fun and the views are just amazing!  Thankful that my running friends convinced me to give it a whirl yesterday!


The Girls With Sole Believe and Achieve 5K/10K trail race


The September Details

September 2013 stats

104.57-- running miles
0-- spin miles
0-- jump rope fitness workouts
0-- core fitness workout
0-- Pure Barre classes
0-- Fitness App workout
0-- walking miles
104.57-- total miles

Current 2013 stats
1065.19-- running miles (I hit 1,000 miles for the year this month)
67-- spin miles (3 classes)
19-- jump rope fitness workouts
1-- core fitness workout
12-- Pure Barre classes
1-- Fitness App workout
9.69-- walking miles
1,141.88-- total miles

2013 "to do list" check-in

2013 Running Goals
1. First and foremost 26.2 under 4 hours--enough said
-The best laid plans....a rough race and a finish time of 4:52....fail.....
My angels that gave me wings to "fly to the finish"

Another 26.2 done



2. Achieve a second sub 1:50 half marathon so I can remove the asterick from my current sub 1:50 PR
-I didn't run any 1/2 marathons this month so the opportunity to achieve this goal didn't present itself. I did run my first 10K trail race yesterday and managed to finish first female overall.  Not sure how that happened.  As for the half marathon goal, tomorrow is only October so there is still time.



Thanks to my friend Kim for getting the top picture of me at the awards ceremony!


2013 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-104.57 miles run in September.  Mission accomplished!
2. Run 1300 miles for the year
-234.81 miles to go to complete this challenge.

2013 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Cross-train at least twice a week
-Fail, major fail...
2. Complete a jump rope workout every day
-Not a single jump rope workout completed. And...the trend continues...
3. Drink 50 ounces of water per day (based on my current weight, this is my daily water intake need)
-Done and done well.
4. Take my vitamins daily
-Somehow I managed to miss one day in September.  Still okay with this since I rarely forget which is a huge improvement from past attempts.
5. Continue to choose and cook healthier foods
-10 meals made in September.
6. Learn to swim...better luck this year
-Ummmm.......yeah.......ummmm
September was a pretty decent month.  I was disappointed in my showing at the Erie Marathon but I got past it and have learned from it.  You learn something new every single day so I figure I might as well embrace it.

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

Friday, September 20, 2013

The Erie Marathon at Presque Isle

Shortly after what happened at the 2013 Boston Marathon, my desire to qualify for Boston (BQ) became even stronger.  I have always wanted to qualify eventually but after what happened this year, I really wanted to have the opportunity to run Boston 2014.  I reached out to my friend Joe and asked him to create me a BQ training plan. He was more than happy to do so and I was and will always be thankful that he did that for me.  Joe emailed me the training plan and I remember thinking only one word... "yikes".  This training plan was intense with lots of speed training and of course the typical long runs that go along with tackling 26.2.  Although my training didn't go completely as planned and I had to sacrifice some workouts and cut some short, I was still feeling very confident in my 3:35 finish goal.  In the weeks leading up to Erie, I was reading articles about the Boston Marathon.  I noticed that the Erie marathon would not only qualify me for Boston 2014 but also for Boston 2015.  This also meant that I would have another 5 minute cushion since I will be in a different age group for Boston 2015.  The day before the race I finally put my goals out there for the world to see (A:  3:35, B:  3:39, C:  3:59:59).

One of my running friends decided to run the 1/2 so we traveled to Erie together on Saturday afternoon.  Of course we had to make several pit stops during the drive because we were making sure to hydrate properly.  We made it to Erie and checked into our hotel.  Can you believe that some hotels still have real keys?!?

Once we were settled into our room, we headed over to Presque Isle to pick up our packets. It was a very small expo/packet pick up.  I didn't have to wait in line at all.  We did check out the small amount of vendor booths before we left to go back to our hotel.  I picked up a new 26.2 magnet for my car since one of the lovely teenagers where I work swiped mine awhile back (they also took my daughter's figure skating magnet a few weeks later).  I have no idea what they wanted with those two magnets but it is what it is.  Our friend Dave had been saying all along that he would not be making it to Erie to watch us run.  Jenn and I were both surprised as we thought he would be there.  For those of you that remember, Dave was the one that got me through my anxiety ridden marathon back in 2011.  You can read about it here.  Eventually Dave did breakdown and tell me that he had in fact reserved a hotel room in the area (no, his room didn't come with a real key) and he would actually be there to watch us run.  The funny part about all of this is that on the drive up, I didn't let on to Jenn that I knew he was planning to be there after all.  Fast forward to being back at our hotel and me truly not knowing that Dave was already in town and there's a knock at the door.  I made Jenn answer the door because I had no clue who it was.  After a round of hugs, I told Jenn that I in fact had known he would be there.  She was very impressed that I kept the secret (as was Dave).  We hung out in our hotel for a bit and then headed to the Olive Garden for some carb loading.  After dinner we headed to Wal-Mart so Jenn could grab some throw away clothes for the start line if it was cold.  Purchases made and we headed back to our hotel and chatted with Dave for a bit.  He left and went back to his hotel with a promise to return to ours in the morning to head over to the race with us. 

It seemed like I had just gotten to sleep and the 4:30 AM alarm was going off already.  I did press snooze a few times and slowly started getting ready.  Jenn got the coffee brewing while I started getting everything ready for the race.  Once I was dressed and had everything ready I had my usual breakfast of a bagel with peanut butter, a banana, and a cup of coffee.  Yes, I have no shame admitting I use the cup of coffee to "get things going".  Dave arrived and we were on our way to Presque Isle to park.  The parking was quite crazy and I did start to silently panic as I was afraid I would miss the marathon start.  We eventually got parked with 20 minutes to spare before go time.  Of course I needed to use the restroom again and got in line.  As the minutes quickly ticked by, I started asking the other people in line which race they were running (the 1/2 marathon started 30 minutes after the marathon) and then I shamelessly asked if I could cut them in line as I was running the marathon and it was getting dangerously close to the start of the race.  Fortunately everyone was kind enough to let me go first.  A few other marathon runners followed my lead and were granted line cuts as well.  I thanked everyone profusely as I left the restrooms.  At this point I heard the National Anthem and started to panic.  I pretty much ripped my throw away shirt off and threw it at Dave while jogging to the start.  My Garmin wasn't grabbing a satellite either which was causing me to stress a bit.  A made it to the start line with a few minutes to spare and my Garmin did in fact grab that satellite in time.  I also had time for a quick pre-race photo for Facebook.
Pre-race photo

The race started and I was feeling good.  I was happy with the pace I was at and I was enjoying myself.  Fast forward to mile 3 when I am just running along mind my own business and out of nowhere I throw up.  It was incredibly shocking to me.  I was just glad that I didn't throw up on myself or one of my fellow runners.  I basically felt fine after getting sick so I kept running along.  I saw Dave at mile 6 and I told him I had thrown up at mile 3 as I was running towards him.  He snapped a picture and I said "did you hear me?  I threw up at mile 3."  He said okay it's fine and I kept on my way.
Mile 6 and still looking happy

Everything continued to go just fine until I hit mile 10 and basically lost feeling from my hip to the top of my knee on my left side.  At this point I do believe I questioned my ability to run another 13.1 loop.  I was able to eat some gummy gels at this point which did help me a little bit.  By the time I came around the corner to finish the first loop I had no feeling on the entire left side from my shoulder down to the top of my knee.  I finished the first loop in two hours and then I actually ran over to the side of the course and just stopped.  I needed to decide what I was doing. 
Mile 13 and looking terrible

Thankfully Dave was there and he talked me through it.  I was in tears mentioning I didn't know if I could do another lap.  Dave suggested I try running to mile 19 and then making a final decision as to what to do.  I literally did a walk/run combination from miles 14-19.  I was trying everything I could think of and finally settled on a 1/3 walk run ratio.  I would walk for one minute and then run for three minutes.  I tried taking in gummy gels during this stretch and I just couldn't stomach them.  I would start to chew them and would have to spit them out.  I gave up on the gummy gels and started taking watered down Gatorade at each water stop.  As I was getting closer to mile 19 I was having serious thoughts of walking off the course.  Fortunately Dave must have known I was struggling with my decision because he had started walking towards mile 18.  Once I saw him I stopped and just started sobbing on his shoulder (hello, flashback to the 2011 Cleveland Marathon).  I told him I didn't think I could go on.  I also mentioned I couldn't stomach my gummy gels.  I was getting ready to call it quits and out of nowhere these two girls come up and ask me if I want to go with them.  They are doing a walk/run and they will get me to the finish line.  Still sobbing I agreed to go with them.  After all, I was only 7 miles from the finish line.  I know Dave and the girls were my guardian angels at that point.  If Dave hadn't walked toward mile 18 I wouldn't have stopped and the two girls wouldn't have been there.  Timing is everything.  It was a struggle those last 7 miles but I really enjoyed getting to know my new friends Becky and Julie.  It was Julie's first marathon and her longest run prior to the race had been 13.1 miles.  Becky was actually feeling good and not in pain so she was happy with that.  Becky was so great at getting us moving.  We would run from this street sign to that street sign, this orange cone to that orange cone and so on and so forth.  Eventually another girl, Lisa joined our group and did the walk/run with us.  Lisa is getting married tomorrow so she hadn't really trained properly and at mile 16 she decided she could just walk to the finish.  Of course we all did run to the finish line.  It took me 2:52 minutes to complete the second 13.1 mile loop.  In the end, it was definitely not what I wanted my race to become however, I finished what I started so I say that's a success.  Of course I have to admit that I was and still am disappointed.  My training went incredibly well and I felt ready for this race.  You just never know what race day is going to bring. 
My Erie Angels

Thankful to be done I drank some chocolate milk and then promptly sad down on the ground where every single muscle in my legs thought it would be fun to cramp into a ball.  I got back up and stretched a tiny bit and then we snapped a few photos and headed back to shower, grab a bite to eat, and head back home.  I also mentioned that I was retiring from the marathon and going back to my happy place...the 1/2 marathon.
Jenn and I after the race

Another 26.2 complete

I still have no idea why I threw up at mile 3.  Maybe I was more nervous then I thought.  I honestly didn't feel nervous before hand though.  I am almost positive the left side numbness had to do with the fact that I ran on the left side (slant) the entire race.  In fact, when I went in for my massage on Tuesday, that was pretty much confirmed.  Thankfully after my 90 minute massage I was feeling better but I seriously had tears running down my face while he was working on my IT band.  Of course by Tuesday evening I was no longer retiring from the marathon.  I am sure a lot of the race became a mental block for me after the first loop (seeing the clock reading 2 hours and feeling the way I did, I pretty much knew I wouldn't be reaching my A, B, or C goal).  Will I run another 26.2?  Yes, eventually I will.  For now I'm sticking to my favorite!  I will be running the Rock N Roll Cleveland 1/2 Marathon on October 6th and I am really looking forward to it!  Oh, and after taking this week off from running, I am ready to hit the trails again tomorrow.  Of course my running buddy for tomorrow, Kim,  has decided that we are going to do some hills.  This should be interesting.

Thanks again to everyone for their support during my latest 26.2 journey.  A special thanks to Jenn for coming to Erie with me, to Dave for driving over 4 hours to provide race support and not letting me quit, and to my guardian angels for "giving me wings to fly to the finish".

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

Saturday, September 14, 2013

Is A, B, C really as easy as 1, 2, 3?

 I can't answer that at the moment, but I will be sure to let you know the minute I do!  At this time tomorrow, I am hoping to have crossed the finish line of The Erie Marathon and have reached my goals.  Yes, I do in fact have an A, B, and C goal.  It's yet to be determined if they are as easy as 1, 2, 3.

The Goals
A:  3:35:00
B:  3:39:00
C:  3:59:59

To be continued........................

Monday, September 2, 2013

August in Review


A nice 6 mile run on Friday brought my August training to a close.  I had some challenges this month with some IT band pain as well as a crazy work schedule that resulted in some altered workouts.  In the end, I am still happy with how things went.

Shortened 21 miler

The August Details

August 2013 stats

135.60-- running miles
0-- spin miles
0-- jump rope fitness workouts
0-- core fitness workout
0-- Pure Barre classes
0-- Fitness App workout
0-- walking miles
135.60-- total miles

Current 2013 stats
960.62-- running miles
67-- spin miles (3 classes)
19-- jump rope fitness workouts
1-- core fitness workout
12-- Pure Barre classes
1-- Fitness App workout
9.69-- walking miles
1,037.31-- total miles

2013 "to do list" check-in

2013 Running Goals
1. First and foremost 26.2 under 4 hours--enough said
-We shall see what happens in 13 days!!


2. Achieve a second sub 1:50 so I can remove the asterick from my current sub 1:50 PR
-I didn't run any 1/2 marathons this month so the opportunity to achieve this goal didn't present itself. I did run a 10K as a time trial this month.  I managed to maintain my marathon goal pace and place first in my age group.  I also set a new age group record for the course.



Jenn and I post race after reaching our goals

New age group course record


2013 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-135.60 miles run in August.  Mission accomplished!
2. Run 1300 miles for the year
-339.38 miles to go to complete this challenge.

2013 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Cross-train at least twice a week
-Not one single cross-training workout took place.  I did walk around Cedar Point one day but that's it.
2. Complete a jump rope workout every day
-Not a single jump rope workout completed. And...the trend continues...
3. Drink 50 ounces of water per day (based on my current weight, this is my daily water intake need)
-I did so much better with this one!  No dehyrated runs this month!
4. Take my vitamins daily
-Vitamin taken every single day in August!
5. Continue to choose and cook healthier foods
-11 meals made in July. Success!
6. Learn to swim...better luck this year
-Still looking for that luck and even talked to the lifeguard at our community pool. She said she could help me.  Well, the pool closes today and it's raining so.....
August was a good month overall.  I can't believe I am running the Erie Marathon in 13 days!  How did that happen?

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

Thursday, August 1, 2013

July in Review

Yesterday's track workout consisting of a 2 mile warm-up, followed by 3 miles of in and out 100's, and finished up with a 2 mile cool-down brought my July training to a close.  This same run also allowed me to set a shiny new monthly mileage PR of 181.66 miles!  I had to miss a few workouts or I would have been really close to 200 miles which I find crazy! 

The July Details
July 2013 stats

181.66-- running miles
0-- spin miles
0-- jump rope fitness workouts
0-- core fitness workout
0-- Pure Barre classes
0-- Fitness App workout
9.69--  walking miles
191.35-- total miles

Current 2013 stats
825.02-- running miles
67-- spin miles (3 classes)
19-- jump rope fitness workouts
1-- core fitness workout
12-- Pure Barre classes
1-- Fitness App workout
9.69--  walking miles
901.71-- total miles

2013 "to do list" check-in

2013 Running Goals
1. First and foremost 26.2 under 4 hours--enough said
-Toeing the line on Sunday, September 15, 2013 in Erie, PA.  I am still very pleased with my progress in this area.  I am incredibly thankful for my running friends that keep me company during the long runs!


Some company on my 18 miler
 

More of my running buddies that have helped me get through the long runs in July!

2. Achieve a second sub 1:50 so I can remove the asterick from my current sub 1:50 PR
-I didn't run any 1/2 marathons this month so the opportunity to achieve this goal didn't present itself. I did run another 5K this month.  I didn't run my best time but I did run for a great cause and managed to place first in my age group!



Lorain County Blue Foundation Team
1st place 35-39 age group

2013 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-181.66 miles run in July!  I would say I nailed that one for sure!
2. Run 1300 miles for the year
-474.98 miles to go to complete this challenge.

2013 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Cross-train at least twice a week
-I wasn't very successful in this area.  I did walk 9.69 miles in July.  1.69 of them were as a result of estimating my route mileage incorrectly and having to walk home after 9 miles.  The other 8 miles I walked at Cedar Point this past weekend.
2. Complete a jump rope workout every day
-Not a single jump rope workout completed.  And...the trend continues...
3. Drink 50 ounces of water per day (based on my current weight, this is my daily water intake need)
-I did really well with this except for the weekend of my daughter's skating competition which resulted in me cutting my 19 mile run short at 17 miles due to being dehydrated.  Lesson learned.
4. Take my vitamins daily
-Vitamin taken every single day in July!
5. Continue to choose and cook healthier foods
-15 meals made in July.  Success!
6. Learn to swim...better luck this year
-Still looking for that luck and even talked to the lifeguard at our community pool.  She said she could help me.  Now to just do it before the pool closes in September.
I am incredibly happy with how July played out.  I can't believe it is August already.  Now I just have to keep up with my training and stay healthy so that I can be standing at the start line in Erie, PA in 45 days!!

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

Monday, July 22, 2013

The 19 miler that became a 17 miler...

This past weekend my training schedule called for 9 miles on Saturday with some marathon goal pace miles thrown in.  Knowing my daughter had a skating competition on Saturday I reached out to coach Joe and asked for his advice.  I pretty much knew what he would tell me to do but I just wanted validation from him.  He told me to enjoy my time with my daughter on Saturday and then run my 19 miler on Sunday with a slight alteration.  I was supposed to run the first 14 miles at marathon goal pace +:60.  During the final 5 miles I was to do some 4:00 minute pick ups at marathon goal pace.  The run started out perfectly.  I was feeling great and having no problem at all keeping the pace.  I planned my route to go past my sister-in-law's house so I could stop and use the restroom and get more water if I needed it.  I made it to her driveway at mile 9.75 and I did go in and use the restroom and grab more water.  I came back out to finish my run and snapped a quick picture of the gorgeous view of Lake Erie.
One of the only good parts of yesterday's run

Once I started running again something just didn't seem right.  I kept putting one foot in front of the other and when I got to the part of the run where I was supposed to do the pick ups I had to listen to my body and not do them because I was starting to feel a bit off.  I had to stop at a gas station to buy more water.  I also grabbed some ice cubes and put them in my tank top in the hopes that it would cool me down.  The 98% humidity was definitely getting to me.  Once I hit mile 16 I became increibly lightheaded and dizzy so I slowed the pace down and called it done at mile 17.  I figured 17 miles finished upright was a better option than 19 finished in the ER.

I know exactly what happened and I should know better.  I have experienced dehydration and a trip to the ER before.  In fact it was how my first marathon ended...not at the finish line getting a medal but in an ambulance and then in a bed in the ER.  I had spent all day at the ice rink on Saturday and I definitely didn't hydrate or fuel my body properly.  I was too busy watching my daughter rock her events.  I should have been watching her with fluids in my hand. 
1st place in compulsory

First place program

As coach Joe said on my dailymile post: "lesson learned which is don't take these long runs for granted the day before.  Practice as close as you can what you'll eat, drink, etc starting wtih breakfast on Saturday all the way until bedtime.  Everyone worries about dinner the night before a 20-miler, but the whole day is important." 

I spent the rest of yesterday trying to replenish the lost fluids.  Believe me, I will be much smarter with my hydration and nutrition prior to future long runs.

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

Monday, July 1, 2013

June in Review

An awesome 16 mile run yesterday brought my June training to a close.  It was a wonderful run with great friends and a little one mile "race" thrown in the middle.  It was a perfect ending to June!
Just outstanding

Team "Infinity and Beyond" at the one mile race.  The team was created by Morgan (#214)


The June Details

June 2013 stats
173.1-- running miles
0-- spin miles
0-- jump rope fitness workouts
0-- core fitness workout
0-- Pure Barre classes
0-- Fitness App workout
173.1-- total miles

Current 2013 stats
643.36-- running miles
67-- spin miles (3 classes)
19-- jump rope fitness workouts
1-- core fitness workout
12-- Pure Barre classes
1-- Fitness App workout
710.36-- total miles

2013 "to do list" check-in

2013 Running Goals
1. First and foremost 26.2 under 4 hours--enough said
-Toeing the line on Sunday, September 15, 2013 in Erie, PA.  I am happy to report that training is going really well with a lot of help from my coach and friends.



2. Achieve a second sub 1:50 so I can remove the asterick from my current sub 1:50 PR
-I didn't run any 1/2 marathons this month so the opportunity to achieve this goal didn't present itself.  I did run a 5K (one day after a 14 miler) and then the one mile "race" yesterday.  Otherwise no other racing this month.


Girls with Sole Lula 5K


2013 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-173.1 miles run in June.  It is obvious by this mileage that marathon training is in full swing!
2. Run 1300 miles for the year
-656.64 miles to go to complete this challenge.

2013 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Cross-train at least twice a week
-I failed big time at this one yet again.  I didn't do a single ounce of cross-training as I am back into the throws of marathon training.  I know I need to fix this one because I know it makes me a stronger runner.
2. Complete a jump rope workout every day
-Not a single jump rope workout completed.  The trend continues...
3. Drink 50 ounces of water per day (based on my current weight, this is my daily water intake need)
-This one is relatively easy when you have to hydrate for all of those marathon training runs.
4. Take my vitamins daily
-Somehow I missed 2 days in June.  Still pretty happy with this as in the past I would forget for weeks at a time.
5. Continue to choose and cook healthier foods
-7 meals made in June.  Not awful but certainly could be better. 
6. Learn to swim...better luck this year
-Still looking for that luck.  Hopefully I find it sooner rather than later.

I am beyond happy with how June turned out and I am looking forward to what July has in store for me!

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

Monday, June 10, 2013

A Fun-Filled Weekend (with a side of road rash and sunburn)

Friday
The weekend started out with a stop at the local running store to pick up my race packet for the Girls with Sole (here) Lula 5K that I would be running on Sunday.  I ran into my friend Kim at packet pick up and we did a little shopping and I decided to buy a book written by Liz Ferro, the founder of Girls with Sole.  After I paid for my copy of "Finish Line Feeling" (here) I asked Liz to sign it for me.  She did so and we all talked for a bit.  After leaving the running store, I head to use a Dick's sporting goods gift card I had.  I ended up running into Kim there as well!  I bought a fun skirt and two tanks tops that I really like!  Since I was scheduled to run 14 miles on Sunday I had to switch my workouts around so I could fit in the 5K and cheer on my dear friends Missi and Patty at their first 1/2 IronMan.  I decided I would get my long run in early Saturday morning and just run the 5K with tired legs.  Once I got home Friday evening I got everything ready for my morning run and then sat down and started reading "Finish Line Feeling".  The book was so fantastic and I didn't want to put it down.  After getting to page 100 or so I knew I needed to call it a night since my alarm would be going off early in the morning.
Saturday
I had no problem getting up with my alarm for my run which was great.  It was the perfect temperature outside and I was looking forward to my run.  Since the marathon I am training for is a two loop course I had decided that I would run my 7 mile loop twice.  The added bonus would be that I would go past my house if I needed more water, fuel, or a restroom break.  Awesome!  I start out on my run feeling great and as I approach mile two I am faced with this.
Life is full of detours
Uh oh...the road is closed and the bridge is out.  I won't be doing that 7 mile loop today.  I stopped and took a picture, posted it to Facebook and started runinng an alternate route.  All was going fantastic and I was really enjoying the run and exchanging hellos with the other early morning runners/bikers.  I was making a point not to look at my watch and to run by feel and then it happened.  I was 7.77 miles into my run and the next thing I knew I was on the ground.  I felt myself going down and I remember thinking I needed to fall to my left as the road was to my right and there was a chance of cars coming.  My shoulder took the brunt of the fall after my shoe hit the railroad track just the wrong way.  My elbow knee and hands followed suit.  It took me a few minutes to realize what had happened and collect myself.  Fortunately I wear a water belt so I was able to rinse of the scrapes a bit, assess the damage, and then decide what to do from there.  I was thankful nothing was broken and that I hadn't hit my head.  Just then a motorist did stop to see if I was okay.  She asked me if I needed a ride and I told her I was going to try and run home and that I had my phone so I could call someone if need be.  I thanked her for stopping, took a few pictures of the damage, posted it to Facebook, and continued on my way. 
Elbow rash and yes, I did press stop on my Garmin.  HA!

Knee rash
With just under 7 miles left to get home, I was initiallly concerned if I would be able to finish the run.  I was pleasantly surprised that I felt good and aside from the breeze hitting my open sores on my hands, I wasn't in pain.  In fact, I ran the second half of my run faster than the first and finished with a sub 8 final mile.  I was quite happy to be safe at home in my driveway after that crazy two hours.
14 run and done!

I did take the road less traveled...ouch!
After getting home I grabbed a shower which was pretty painful with all of the open wounds on my banged up left side and then elevated and iced my ankle for most of the day as a precautionary measure as it was a little sore after the run.  I also finished reading "Finish Line Feeling" Saturday.  The book was amazing and I highly recommend it to everyone.  It was incredibly inspiring and what Liz does for Girls with Sole is just amazing.

Sunday
I was up early again on Sunday morning to head to the Lula 5K.  I ran a mile warm-up with Kim and then we took a few pictures and headed to the start line.
Kim, me, and Bick
My plan was to run at an uncomfortable pace and see what I could throw down post 14 mile run and road rash.  I started out feeling great and talking with another runner.  The final mile was uphill so my pace did slow a bit.  I ended up running a 23:08 on sore and tired legs.  Not bad at all.  Of course there must have been some speedsters in the 35-39 age group as I placed 5th with that time.  After the race I headed to Kim's to get cleaned up so we could head to Ravenna to support our friends in their first 1/2 IronMan.  We threw our bikes in the back of my truck in case we needed to ride them on the 1/2 marathon course.  As we were driving there, Bick realized that we had forgotten the signs she had made.  We had gone too far to go back so after being sad for a few minutes we adjusted and stopped at Staples to get new supplies to make replacement signs.  Bick and Kim made the signs while I drove us the rest of the way to the race site.
Pretty impressive for replacement signs!
Once we got to the parking lot we realized we wouldn't be needing our bikes as the run course went through the parking lot we were in several times.  We saw Patty going out for her second loop right as we got out of the truck.  She was looking fantastic.  We cheered on all of the runners and then we saw Missi coming in after her first loop.  She was looking fantastic and wearing a smile.  Lots more cheering and fun were had and then we got to see Missi and Patty finish what they started.  It was just amazing and I was truly in awe.
Kim, me, Patty, Missi, and Bick

We had to get a photo of all of us and then we separated ways and headed home.  Of course we were starving by this point so we stopped off and grabbed a late lunch before making it back home.  Once I finally made it back to my house I realized that my face was really hot.  Sure enough, my face is as red as a tomato today.  Overcast skies and no sunscreen are a painful combination.

Although I have battle scars and sunburn to show for it, I wouldn't change this past weekend for the world.  I am so glad that we could be there to see Missi and Patty finish their journey.  Believe me though, I know these ladies well enough to know this isn't the end...they are just getting started!!

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