Cleveland Marathon 2015 Race Report

Let's flash back to May 18, 2014 when I sat at the finish line of the marathon and declared that I was "retiring" from the marathon distance and never running a full marathon again.  I guess there is a lot to be said for the statement "never say never" in my case since I crossed the finish line of my 7th marathon on May 17, 2015.  Oh, did I mention that Sunday was my 41st birthday as well.  So how did I go from "retiring" to the finish line in just one short year?  Two words....peer pressure.  You see a few of my neighbors that did their first half marathon in September wanted to attempt their first 26.2 and asked me if I would be willing to train with them since I was the "marathon pro".  I told them that I would definitely train with them and then just see what happened in regards to my actually signing up to run the Cleveland Marathon.  Fast forward to early March and I made the commitment by signing up for the marathon. 

Saturday
After running a few errands I headed downtown to the expo with the girls.  We spent a long while there looking at things and even getting fake eyelashes.  I can honestly say that's a first for me at a race expo.  Once we made it back home we headed over to Karrie's for our carb loading dinner that her husband so graciously prepared.  I had my usual two beers with dinner and spent some time talking about our plans for Sunday during the race.  We headed home at a reasonable hour and I proceeded to get everything ready for the morning so I wouldn't have to rush around. I turned in relatively early and slept okay.

Race Expo

Carb Loading Dinner

Sunday
The alarm went off at oh-painful-early and I started to get ready for the day.  I made my breakfast to take with me in the car and eat on the way downtown to the start line.  It turned out that I was able to finish my breakfast at each of my neighbor's houses while I was waiting for them to come out to the car so we could be on our way.  We arrived downtown with very little problems and found a good parking spot, took several pictures and walked towards the start line. 

26.2 and 13.1 ready to run

Running for a reason

We did stop and use the porta potties on the way.  As we walked to the corrals it started to pour rain on us.  It stopped relatively quickly but may have made things worse because the humidity was crazy!  The plan was to stay together as long as possible.  Everything was going along great.  We made it to the 6.5 mile water stop where my friends Missi and Dave were cheering us on and giving me new water bottles.  It was at this water stop that we somehow lost Trisha.  Chrindye and I trudged on together while Karrie and Kelly stuck together just a little ways behind us.  It was incredibly hot and humid so we welcomed the rain when it came and then cursed it when it left and made it that much hotter.  As we were running along Chrindye and I took a few minutes to remember the numerous angels we had with us that we were running for.

When I was tired Angel Emily became my legs

Trisha, Chrindye, and myself near the turn around

Just before mile 18 I started having stomach cramps and slowed to a walk for just a minute.  Chrindye went on ahead of me and then we saw her family and porta potties which were both welcomed sights.  I felt better after using the porta potty and the bonus was the Trisha caught back up with us at this point.  As we rounded the turn to head back towards downtown I could feel my body temperature rising rapidly.  I told Chrindye that I was going to have to walk because I didn't want a repeat of my 2010 Cleveland Marathon that ended in Metro's ER.  I wasn't in an physical pain so having to stop to walk was frustrating but I knew it was the right thing to do at that time.  Chrindye tried to walk but it was less painful for her to run so I sent her on her way.  I ran/walked with Trisha for a short period of time and then I lost sight of her.  I did my best to stay hydrated during those last 8 miles that I had to run/walk.  At 20+ miles into the race I saw my co-worker on the sidewalk.  It was like an angel had been sent to me.  She and her husband jumped on the course and ran/walked a good mile with me.  It was incredibly helpful and I thanked them repeatedly.  Eventually I made my way towards the finish line.  I saw my son and gave him a high five and then I saw my daughter and ran over to her at which point both she and my son finished the race with me.  I couldn't have asked for a better ending to what was a tough race day in crazy weather conditions.

Loved that the announcer complimented my daughter on her "You can't squat with us" tank

Best Finish Ever!

After everyone finished the marathon, we headed to the beer tent (minus Trisha as she was feeling very ill and needed to get out of there) to enjoy the rewards of our labor.  Although my time was my second slowest marathon finish ever I couldn't help but smile for the successes of my friends.  They all completed their first marathon and are still considering toeing the line of another 26.2 mission.  I told them I was all in as long as the marathon was in the fall when there is a better chance of cooler weather! 

Sweet Emily saw me through

26.2 Run and Done

18 of the 26.2 miles run together

Happy to be done

Slow and steady but I did it

It was a wonderful day all around and a fantastic birthday that ended with a post-marathon celebration at Chrindye's house in honor of our marathon finish and my birthday!

Proudly wearing our hard earned medals

We did it

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

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!

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!!

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!!

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!!

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!!

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!!

My Birthday and Running Updates

Today is my 39th birthday.  I will remain in the 35-39 year old age grouping for 365 more days.  My day has been great so far with numerous birthday wishes on Facebook, through text messages, and phone calls.  My staff is also very thoughtful on my birthday!  In fact, they presented me with a nice gift bag and ice cream cake this morning.  They know how important running and the running communnity is to me so they felt the Boston Strong shirt was a perfect tribute to me.  I couldn't agree more.

Goodies from my staff.  The pringles and swedish fish will be road tripping with Kaelynn and I this afternoon

So what have I been up to in the world of running lately?  Well, I am in week 2 of my training plan for my next running adventure that my friend Joe was kind enough to create for me.  So far my training has been going very well.  Last week was a nice and easy recovery week.

35 recovery miles

Why did I run 35 miles during a recovery week you ask?  Well so I can see what I am made of in September when I toe the line of my fall marathon in Erie, PA.  I am not quite ready to share my goal for this race just yet but let me just say I am ready, willing, and able to put in the work that will be required to meet my goal.

Erie Marathon Entry Confirmation

 This week's training has gone very well.  I ran 6 easy miles on both Tuesday and Thursday and did my first track workout on Wednesday.  I am very pleased will how all of these runs went.  It was outlandishly hot yesterday which did remind me that it is best to sacrifice a little bit of shut eye and get the workout done before the sun comes up!  I am currently sitting at 19 miles for the week and the training plan calls for 6 miles tomorrow and 12 miles on Sunday.  As I mentioned in my April in review, I will sacrifice mileage any day for my kids so I will likely be sacrificing my 6 mile run tommorrow as I will be in Ann Arbor with Kaelynn for her final ice skating competition of the 2012-2013 season.  Fortunately it works out that I will be home to do my long run on Sunday so I am not sacrificing all 18 miles this weekend!  Like Joe said don't worry too much about it because this early in the training program it isn't even a spec of sand on the beach.  I like how you think Joe! 

To snag a line from Joe, one of the greatest athletes I have the pleasure of being friends with, it's time to go to work!

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

February in Review

A fantastic hill repeat session on the basement treadmill  brought my February training to an end.  It was a great sweat session and I had the chance to break in my new shoes!

The February Details
February 2013 stats
76.6-- running miles
67-- spin miles
0-- jump rope fitness workouts
0-- core fitness workout
7-- Pure Barre classes
1--  Fitness App workout
143.60-- total miles

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

2013 "to do list" check-in

2013 Running Goals
1. First and foremost 26.2 under 4 hours--enough said
-As of February 28, 2013 I have been looking at marathons to determine where I would like to attempt this goal.  I'm leaning towards an October race.
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 half marathons in February.  I am still hoping to achieve this goal while running in DC in March.

2013 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-73.1 miles run in February.  The stomach bug and pure exhaustion hit me hard and put a glitch in my monthly mileage goal.
2. Run 1300 miles for the year
- 1,123.09 miles to go to complete this challenge.

2013 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Cross-train at least twice a week
-I am incredibly happy with February's cross training.  I took 7 Pure Barre classes, 3 spin classes, and completed one fitness app.  In fact, one of my employees told me that she could see a difference in the way my clothes were fitting so the Pure Barre classes must be working.  Always nice to get a compliment. 
2. Complete a jump rope workout every day
-This goal came to a halt last month to prevent injury and I didn't do a single jump rope workout this month. 
3. Drink 50 ounces of water per day (based on my current weight, this is my daily water intake need)
-Success here.
4. Take my vitamins daily
-Vitamin taken every single day in February.
5. Continue to choose and cook healthier foods
-12 meals made in February.  I am pretty happy with this considering every single person in our house was sick for a few days in February.
6. Learn to swim...better luck this year
-Same story as last month.  We all know this one is a thorn in my side. I have done extensive research in regards to swim lessons. I just need to figure out what will fit my schedule and make the commitment.

I am very happy with my February training.  I managed to incorporate a lot more cross training and I have thoroughly enjoyed every class that I have attended.  Both the spin and Pure Barre instructors are great and really know how to motivate you to do your best.  I did fall short of my mileage goal for the month but I can't be upset about that since I was sidelined by that stomach bug.  Also, for those that are keeping track, I did not eat a single sweet or chip the entire month of February--challenge complete!!

I really would like to know when it is going to warm up here and actually start to resemble the fact that spring is just a few short weeks away.  I'm looking forward to running the Rock 'N Roll USA half in March with Deb and Nikki.  Here's hoping for awesome running weather with a killer PR to show for it!

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

Strength Training, Cross Training, and Snow Running Oh My

One of the goals I have for 2013 is to add strength training as well as cross training in addition to my running.

Strength Training
I know myself well enough to know that if I don't do this in a group setting, where I am held accountable by others, I likely won't do it at all.  This is where my neighbor Brenda and Pure Barre come into play.  Brenda had posted about a studio coming to our area on her Facebook page.  I was very intriqued so I asked her for more information.  I made the commitment to join Brenda to see what is was all about.  This past Friday I stepped way out of my comfort zone and took my first Pure Barre class with Brenda by my side.  At first I was incredibly intimated and questioned my ability to complete the class but five minutes into the class I was loving it.  According to the website, Pure Barre lifts your seat, tones your thighs, abs and arms and burns fat in record breaking time. Clients see results in just 10 classes, lose inches in weeks and have fun doing it!  I have to tell you that description is 100% accurate.  I can't wait to go back and do the workout again!  I was a bit concerned that I wouldn't be able to move come Saturday morning when I had a hard time walking up my steps just 90 minutes after class had ended!

Getting our "tuck" on at Pure Barre Westlake

Cross Training
I was pleasantly surprised Saturday morning when I realized I could in fact move!  I headed to the YMCA for my planned 5 mile pace run on the indoor track.  I had noticed on the Saturday schedule that there was a spinning class as well.  I decided if I felt good after my run that I would check out the class.  I figured it would be perfect cross training!  I am so glad I decided to give it a try.  The instructor was great and he played fantastic music.  I am definitely doing this Saturday  morning workout combination more often!!

Feel the burn

Snow Running
Imagine my surprise when I woke up Sunday morning to major arm and ab muscle soreness.  I suppose that saying about "if you think it hurts today, just wait until tomorrow" is accurate.  I headed out into the cold and met up with Missi for a long run.  Missi had an hour on her plan and I was hoping for 9 miles so I figured I would run the first hour with her and then head out for the final 3 solo.  As we were getting ready to finish the first hour Missi asked me if I was going to run all 9.  I told her I really wanted to and she said she completely understood achieving your anticipated goal.  She even encouraged me to get back out there and do it.  We parted ways after 6 miles and I headed back out on my own with a promise to text her when I had finished.  Safety first!!

The gorgeous trail we ran on Sunday

In the end it was a fantastic weekend of workouts.  I had to shake my head this morning when I sneezed and my abs were screaming at me.  I guess the Pure Barre class paired with holding my abs in yesterday to stay upright on the trail really caught up with me.  I am loving it though!  Here's to more fun workouts this week!!

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


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!!

Presque Isle 1/2 Marathon in memory of Uncle Joe

It has been over two weeks since I ran my July 1/2 marathon and I'm just now getting around to blogging about it. 
On July 15 I ran 13.1 miles around Presque Isle State Park in Erie, PA in memory of my Uncle Joe.  I had a very hard time finding a July 1/2 marathon but I truly believe that everything happens for a reason and my July 1/2 marathon didn't fall on the 15th coincidentally.  July 15th of 2011 was the last full day that Uncle Joe was with us as he passed away July 16th, 2011.  Uncle Joe works in mysterious ways.  He knew this was the race that I needed to be running and he made sure I found it when I did my search for a race.  He is always with us. 
There are times when a race have nothing to do with the time on the clock and this 1/2 marathon was one of them.  It was about honoring the memory of an amazing person.  When things got tough I just thought of Uncle Joe.  All 2 hours and 10 minutes were run in his honor.  

For Uncle Joe

July 1/2 marathon complete

Enjoying the water after the race

13.1 and done- all for Uncle Joe


With my July 1/2 marathon out of the way, I am looking forward to checking another state off the list for my August 1/2 marathon when I travel to Minnesota this weekend with Deb and Nikki.

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

June in Review

Somehow June got away from me as I didn't write one single blog entry the entire month.  I think it was a combination of the end of the school year and the kids' activities.  I didn't do a lot of workouts this month but I did fit them in when I could. 

June 2012 stats
48.51-- running miles
6.2-- bike miles
0-- pool workout
0-- core fitness workouts
54.71-- total miles
154-- weight as June 30, 2012

Current 2012 stats
451.6-- running miles
12.2-- bike miles
1-- pool workout
56-- core fitness workouts
463.8-- total miles
154-- current weight

2012 "to do list" June check-in

2012 Running Goals
1. My number one running goal is to run a sub-1:50 half marathon
-I didn't even attempt this goal in June.  I seriously need to come up with a plan and commit to achieving this goal soon.
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
-48.51 miles run in June- a far cry from 100.  Oddly enough, I have come to terms with not achieving this challenge.  I'm just running to enjoy it right now.
2. Run a half marathon each month
-NCN Park 2 Park 1/2 Marathon (2:06:37)- This was a great half for June.  It was very small and close to home.  Missi and I ran the entire race together and both managed to place first in our age groups.  I was so busy this month that I didn't even get a chance to blog about it so here's a picture from the event.

2012 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Increase the amount of cross-training/strength training I do on a monthly basis
-1 cross training/strength training workouts done in June-  One 6.2 mile bike ride towards the end of the month.  I still need to work on this!!
2. Focus on choosing and cooking healthier foods
-13 well-balanced meals prepared in June- I will take it!
3. Drink more water
-I did an outstanding job with this in June.
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 had a discussion about needing to take lessons while at our development pool.  Still need to make this happen.
Overall, June was a pretty decent month and I can't complain.  Bring on July!

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

January in Review

My very early, peaceful, and enjoyable 3 mile run in spring-like temperatures on January 31, 2012 brought my January training to a close.  Although it might be more accurate to say those 3 miles brought my January running to a close since I am not technically training for a specific event at the moment but at any rate I give you my final numbers!

January 2012 stats
100.1-- running miles
6-- bike miles
1--  pool workout
106.1-- total miles
156.8--  weight as of January 31, 2012

Current 2012 stats
100.1-- running miles
6-- bike miles
1-- pool workout
106.1-- total miles
156.8-- current weight

2012 "to do list" January check-in
2012 Running Goals
1. My number one running goal is to run a sub-1:50 half marathon
-No work has been done on this.  I need to decide when I want to attempt my sub 1:50 and then follow a training plan to help me do so.
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 had a few thoughts in regards to when I want to run another marathon.  I am thinking October...no other thoughts about this right now.
2012 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-100.1 miles run in January
2. Run a half marathon each month
-Rock N' Roll Arizona 1/2 Marathon on January 15, 2012 (1:57:43)
2012 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Increase the amount of cross-training/strength training I do on a monthly basis
-2 cross-training/strength workouts done in January...baby steps
2. Focus on choosing and cooking healthier foods
-14 well-balanced meals prepared in January
3. Drink more water
-This remains a struggle for me.  I am not happy with my water intake for January so I need to make a conscious effort to step it up.
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.
-Aside from looking at the swim lesson schedules a few times in January I haven't made any further progress on this challenge but I intend to.

I am very pleased with my January.  Now I am looking ahead to February and I am very excited to start my February challenge tomorrow.  There's still time to join me in my quest--simply click here to find out the details!

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