I Did It! I Finished 26.2 Miles!

The week before the marathon was pure craziness.  First, we found out my father-in-law was scheduled to go in to have surgery to check out a mass in his lungs Wednesday, so we had to work out all the logistics of getting him to surgery and having someone with him and visiting while in the hospital.  Luckily, Dave's brother Craig and his wife Amanda were able to take on the duties.  Then Anna woke up Tuesday morning with a fever.  She stayed home that first day, with Jim still home next door in case she needed anything, but as the fever continued into Wednesday, we called in my parents for reinforcement.  Anna ended up having the flu and missing 4 days of school.  Luckily my parents were available to spend a few extra days at my house helping care for Anna.  The whole time, I'm trying to balance being a good mother, daughter-in-law, daughter, and wife with getting ready for the marathon.  I was so fearful that this would all negatively impact the event for which I had been training for the last 6 months.  I feel selfish saying that as I try hard not to be the "it's all about me" type, but at this last moment after all my hard work and training, I really wanted to accomplish the goal of completing 26.2.

Thursday night we visited Jim, Dave's dad, and he was sitting up and in good spirits in the hospital.  It turns out the mass in his lung was squamous cell cancer, so the surgeon had to remove 1/2 of one of Jim's lungs.  He was healing nice and was in good spirits.  Craig and Amanda assured us that they would be on call for anything that was needed, and Jim reaffirmed that we should go ahead as planned with the marathon.  He said we had trained so long for this, that we absolutely should not change our plans.

My parents took Anna to the doctor on Wednesday, and it turned out she had the flu.  The doctor gave her Tamiflu to help shorten the duration and help with some of the symptoms.  Anna's fever was better by Thursday night.  My parents had originally planned on staying Friday-Sunday, but they had spent the day on Wednesday, then packed their bags a day early and arrived Thursday morning.  They were here if Anna needed to stay home Friday.  Friday morning, Anna woke up with watery eyes, some coughing, and a low grade fever.  She was home for one more day, but definitely on the road to recovery.  She told us she would be fine with Grandma and Grandpa and my parents assured me they had things under control, so we were ready to head to Memphis.

The drive down was a nice, easy drive.  We stopped for lunch at Taco Bell in Arkansas, then headed to our hotel in Memphis.  We made sure to stay well hydrated all day, which led to more than the usual number of restroom stops, but we still had a quick trip down.  Upon arriving in Memphis, we checked into the Residence Inn then walked down to the Convention Center for the Expo and packet pickup.  We picked up our race bags and numbers, my St. Jude Hero singlet, and we walked through the Expo for a bit.  Then we walked around Memphis to decide where we might want to eat our meals over the weekend. 

After returning to the hotel to relax and freshen up, we went out to dinner at a nearby restaurant called Automatic Slims.  The appetizers were all half price, so we made a meal out of a variety of unique appetizers and a salad.  We had crab cakes, blue cheese smothered homemade potato chips, gouda and bacon macaroni and cheese, calamari, and a poached pear and walnut salad.  Then we headed back to the hotel and called it an early night.  Of course, I made sure to lay out all my race gear before going to bed!

We woke early in the morning.  I think we were both awake by 4:30.  We continued to lay in bed to at least get a little more rest even though we couldn't sleep.  By 5:00, we were up out of bed making plans for our race and our day.  We put on our race gear, then went down to the hotel breakfast by 6:00.  I had my usual pre-race meal of an English muffin with peanut butter and jelly and a banana.  We sat by these two college age boys discussing their plans for pacing in the half marathon.  It was somewhat entertaining.

Back up to the room for finishing touches and one last restroom break, then it was time to go over to bag check.  Bag check was in the stadium, so it took a while to get in through the crowd.  After bag check, we went to the hero's lounge area in a nearby hotel lobby for one more restroom break.  Then it was time to line up in our corral.  We went to corral 9, and lined up just behind the 4:40 finish pacers.  My goal was to stay with them for as long as I could, then if I dropped back near the end of the marathon, I figured I'd still make it in under 5 hours.

I was so excited as I stood there waiting for our turn to begin.  Once we started, I tried to keep it at a nice steady pace.  Dave ran with me, hoping that he would be able to finish the full marathon even with his stress fractures if he stayed at my pace.  There was a lot of crowd support throughout the entire first half of the marathon, so I kept noticing myself speed up.  Dave kept telling me I was picking up the pace a bit too much and needed to slow down. The fastest mile was the one which included running through the St. Jude campus.  I was trying to hold back the tears and found it hard to breathe as we were running through with all the hospital workers, parents, and other supports cheering us on.  It was very moving! 

Dave started running with a bit of a limp around mile 9, so by mile 10 he knew he was going to have to turn off at the half marathon split.  So after we split off in the 12th mile, I was on my own for the rest of the race.  We had actually gotten ahead of the 4:40 pacers, but after I tripped and fell on mile 15, I started slowing down my pace a bit.  In the 16th mile, the 4:40 pacers had caught back up to me, so I got in with the group running with the pacers for the next couple of miles.  By mile 19, I was feeling some soreness in my muscles.  I walked a little longer after my water breaks, and I would alternate running and walking, especially when I would be going up a hill.  At mile 22, there was a group called the "Harriers" handing out beer.  I grabbed one to keep me going:)  The miles really did keep ticking by quickly.  There were so many little inspirational things and all the support from the crowds, even though they were a bit more spread out through the second half of the race, kept me going.  I kept thinking about all my friends and family that were cheering me on from home and looking forward to hearing the results.  As I came into the final mile, I felt tears in my eyes knowing that I was actually going to complete a marathon.  Running into the Autozone park stadium for the finish was a great way to finish.  Also, I saw Dave up above and he was cheering me on.  Then getting the medal and knowing all the hard work of training had led up to this moment!  Priceless!

I was able to fundraise $922 for St. Jude.  I have improved my own health through all this.  And I hope I have inspired some others to think about things they can achieve when they pick a goal and stick to it.  I'm already thinking about what to do next?  I think a half marathon or two in the spring and maybe a few shorter races.  Maybe another marathon next fall.....

To celebrate after the marathon, we went out to lunch at a nearby bar and grill for burgers, fries, and beer.  After some naps and showers, we went back out later in the evening for dinner, drinks and music at B.B. Kings on Beele Street.  We spent a little time enjoying the sights on Beele Street, but then I was exhausted and ready to call it a night by about 9.  Lame, I know, but 26.2 miles takes it out of you....and the cost of cover charges and drinks for a night out was just too much for us to justify staying out too late into the night.  Overall, this was a wonderful weekend! 

Taper Time

Just 13 days away from the big race.  Hard to believe that the time is almost here.  I feel nervous and excited about completing the 26.2!

This week I ran 5 miles, 6 miles, and 8 miles for my weekly runs.  I kept it close to my goal marathon pace.  The runs were on the hilly side.  I ran after work each day, and I was somewhat racing the sunset.  My two longer runs ended with about the last mile in the dark. My long run was 13.1 on the levee trail.  This is a paved trail, which is basically flat.  My mom met me at mile 7 and ran the rest with me.  We ran side by side for about 3 miles, then she ran just a bit behind me for the final 3.  Today Dave and I took a relaxing 1 mile walk around the neighborhood.

This week I am planning on running 4, 6, 4, and 10.  Next week's plan is 3, 4, 2....then the big 26.2.

Hot Chocolate, Chicago, a Stomach Bug, and a 22 Miler

Had a great time last weekend on my trip to Chicago.  We had a smooth easy drive into Chicago and arrived at the Expo in record time.  My sis and her friend were still standing in line to get into the Expo, so Amy and I were able to walk up and join them.  The line to get in to the Expo and get the race bib was ridiculously long.  My sister's total wait time was well over an hour.  We were all excited when we finally got in and received our race bibs and the cute sweatshirts.  We shopped a bit at the Expo, then headed down to our hotel.  We were able to meet up with my friend Kim and some of her friends for dinner at The Scout.  Then we headed back to our hotel at about 11, so we could get some sleep before the race. 

We were just about a 1 mile walk from Grant Park, though it was some more walking to get to the bag checks then back to the corral.  The corrals were jam-packed, so we had to wait outside the entrance to our corral until they started moving our start group forward.  We were finally able to get in, but this caused us to be at the very back of our corral.  This year, the 5K and 15K were all started together, so for the first 2 miles we could hardly move.  Our pace was over a minute per mile slower than usual during that first mile, as we just could not really get anywhere with all the people.  There were several people that appeared to be in the wrong corral, too.  Once the 5K group turned off, we were able to pick up the pace and get into a nice groove.  The temps were chilly, but perfect for the run.  Amy and I ran together for 7 of the 9.3 miles, then I pulled a bit ahead through a dark underpass tunnel, where she slowed a bit to watch her footing (probably a smart idea).  I ended up finishing in almost exactly the same time as last year.  I ran much better this year, but those first two crowded miles messed up the overall finish a bit.  Also, as this was within my training for the full, I didn't want to go all out and risk injury.  This run was just for the fun of it. 

After the run we had our Hot Chocolate and Chocolate Fondue! Yum!  It was a bit of a walk from the finish and bag pick up to the celebration area, but that allowed me to get plenty of walking in to add to my mileage (since the 9.3 was actually a little less than my full training plan called for).  We waited for my sister to get to the area and enjoy her chocolate.  I saw my friend Kim again briefly, so we were able to share our race experiences.  Then we returned to the hotel to shower and change before going out to lunch.  We had a great lunch at Rock Bottom Brewing Co., then did a bit of shopping.  We returned to the hotel for a little rest, grabbed some appetizers in the hotel bar, then took a cab to Zanie's Comedy Club for some stand up comedians.  The next morning we grabbed breakfast, then did a bit more shopping before heading home.  I enjoyed my time in Chicago!

I had a professional development day on Tuesday and completed a 7 mile run that evening.  Then I woke up Wednesday morning feeling just aweful.  I ended up throwing up several times throughout the day and couldn't keep any food down.  I had to miss Wed. 3 mile run.  I had aches all over my body and chills in to the night, so I had to again stay home from school on Thursday.  By Thursday late afternoon, I decided I could try an easy run, so as not to get too far off my training plan.  I ran 3 miles, walked most of mile 4, then ran again at a slower pace for another 3 miles to get in my 7 miles.  It wiped me out.  I was only able to eat small porions of food still on Friday, and I was exhausted by the end of the work day.  We went out to dinner at Olive Garden to carb load before my 22 mile run (the last super long run before the taper).  I was only able to eat half of my meal (and I even got one of the under 600 calorie meals), though I did have a little salad and one and a half breadsticks, too.  I was worried about the 22 miles with such a messed up week!

Saturday morning, I had my usual pre-long run meal of peanut butter and jelly on toast with a banana.  I also had a Zipp Fizz (drink powder mixed into water).  I mapped out a course along the roads that was a hilly coarse, since most of my long runs have been on running/biking trails with fewer/smaller hills.  It was very windy out and warm (the high made it into the 80's as a warm front moved through today).  I ran at my usual pace for the first 9 miles, feeling good even with the wind, hills, and it heating up a bit as time went on.  Then on mile 10, just as I was getting into a really hilly section of the run, my stomach started cramping up.  From then on, I had to take a lot of walk breaks.  I tried eating extra chews and an extra mini payday bar.  I refilled my water when I need to, so I stayed hydrated.  I even stopped and bought a Gatorade at a gas station.  I'd walk awhile, then when I felt the cramping had stopped, I run for a bit until the cramping started again.  I haven't had stomach cramps while running for a very long time.  I'm assuming it was related to the stomach bug from earlier in the week; I'm probably still not fully recovered.  But, I did complete the 22 miles.  I'm not happy that I had to walk for a lot of it, but I am pleased to have completed the distance.

My husband had to use the eliptical for several hours, then he rode his bike to meet me at the car.  He is doing everything he can to keep up his fitness, still hoping for the ability to run at the last minute to complete the full.  We came home and showered and changed then went out to a late lunch.  Afterward, we came home and pretty much just laid around the rest of the day.  I still feel tired today (Sunday).  The kids spent the weekend with Grandma and Grandpa, so I'm going to go pick them up in a while.  I really hope I can get some energy back and start eating more, so I can finish strong with the training plan and be ready for the full on December 1.

Running through the Aches and Pains and a Busy Week

Ran my second 20 miler on Saturday.  A friend ran the first 8.3 with me, then my sister met up with me and ran 9 miles while I did my last 11.7.  It's always nice to have someone out there running with you, whether we run side by side or not.  The time definitely goes by much quicker with someone to talk with while running.  It will be hard on race day without someone running by me, although the race is sold out so I won't exacty be running by myself.  Maybe I'll even find someone to talk with.... The excitement of the race and the spectators will usually keep me going.

This week, I had to skip my walk day on Sunday and use Sunday for a rest day.  Then, instead of using Monday as a rest day, I completed my weekly runs on Monday (7 miles), Tuesday (7 miles) and Wednesday (6 miles).  I had meetings in the mornings at school on both Tuesday and Wednesday, and Wednesday was also Halloween.  So needless to say, this was a very busy and long week.  Thursday was a full work day followed by Parent-Teacher conferences at night, which made for a 12 hour workday.  Today we do not have students, but we have Parent-Teacher conferences from 9-7.  Knowing I would not be able to run on Thursday, made me redo the weekly schedule.  I was exhausted and really feeling some aches and pains in my legs.  My ankle is feeling irritated and tight again, and I am also having some ached in my shins.  I actually had a small knot/bump on my right shin, which had me a bit concerned.  I was planning on a short run this morning, but I decided an extra rest day may be necessary to avoid injury. 

This weekend I am taking a trip to Chicago to run in the Hot Chocolate 15K.  This is a "just for fun run", where I'm not worried about time and pace.  I'm going to have a fun girl's weekend and to run for the fun of running in a huge crowd of people.  Oh yes, the hot chocolate and chocolate fondue at the end is nice, too.  This is a cut back week, with the race being only 9.3 miles. 

Just one more super long run of 22 miles next weekend, then I start the prerace taper.  I think the taper has a 13 miler and an 8 miler.  The big day of 26.2 is on December 1.  I'm getting nervous as the date gets closer.  I want to stay attuned to my body so I run enough to be prepared and able to complete the distance but not so much that I end up with an injury.

Dave went in last week for an MRI, since his leg has continued to bother him even after physical therapy.  He discovered that he does have a stress fracture.  No running for 6-8 weeks....but the marathon is only 5 weeks away.  So, he has to bike and use the eliptical to get all his miles in.  He can attempt running the week before the race, and if he can run without pain he will be able to do the marathon.  If he is still in pain when he runs, then the marathon will be out.  Please pray for quick healing, so he can complete this race.  He has ended up with an injury through each race training, so he is feeling a bit discouraged.  He is working out twice as hard with all his other exercises to prepare for the marathon without running.  Difficult to feel prepared for a race when you can run!!  This is why the aches and pains must be listened to.....

Stay injury free while you run happy!!

Hungry! and other Random Thoughts

I find myself constantly feeling hungry.  I thought I might lose that last 10 pounds I wanted to lose while training for the marathon (still hoping it will happen in these last 6 weeks as my miles peak....though the last few weeks will have the taper...), but I'm hungry all the time.  I haven't gained weight, but I just keep hovering up and down around the same 2-5 pounds.  I try to resist the urge to eat when I can, but I just keep thinking about food until I finally eat something.  I know I'm burning a lot of calories when I'm running 35+ miles a week, but it's hard to find the perfect balance.  I've tried to eat when I'm hungry and make good choices, but when I feel hungry all the time I know I can't eat all the time!!

When I'm not feeling hungry, I'm either feeling extremely tired or extremely restless.  After a rest day, I feel jittery with the urge to go for a run.  On consecutive running days (T-W-Th), and after the long weekend run on Saturday, I feel tired.  I think the taper weeks will be very difficult, as I will really feel jittery about the upcoming marathon. 

I try to focus on my job and my relationships, but it is hard to really be completely there all the time.  When I'm busy, I am focused on what I am doing....but whenever I have down time, my mind is on running.  When I have free moments, I want to read running tips or check in with the St. Jude website to see how my fundraising is going, or look up a half marathon for the spring....

I wonder how I will feel after I complete the marathon.  Will I think, "Never Again!" like many people I know who have run that one marathon to check off their bucket list.....or will I be looking to sign up again as soon as possible ( I also know some crazy people in this category).  It's hard to say.  At this point, I'm thinking I will pick a half marathon for the spring and maybe a few other smaller runs.  I like attending the organized races/runs, and it is harder to find time to participate in as many runs when training for a marathon. 

This week I will run 7, 4, and 5 miles during my midweek runs.  On Saturday, I will complete my second 20 mile run.  I think I'm most fidgetty on Tuesday mornings, because after resting Monday I am reved up for the week of running.  I'm also worrying about getting all the runs in, though I haven't missed runs except when I was injured. 

Time to get ready for work.  Happy Running!

My First 20 Miler!

I'm so excited that I have completed my first 20 miler!! I woke up super early yesterday (Saturday) morning.  I was both nervous and excited about completing my first 20 miler.  My sister spent the night Friday night so we could get up and run together.  She was planning on running around 13.  We aren't exactly the same pace, but it's still nice knowing someone else is out there somewhat nearby.  We ran at Creve Couer Park.  There is a nice, mostly flat, looped trail around a lake that is a 3.7 mile loop.  There is also a bigger loop that is around 5 miles, and some other trails connecting off, too.  I did different loops of different directions to get the 20 miles.  I kept a mostly steady pace, averaging an 11:05 pace.  The McMillan Race Pace calculator recommends that I keep my run between 11:06-12:06 for my long runs, so I was pretty close to the recommended pace.  I kept trying to keep myself motivated at the moments I thought about taking a walking break by thinking about the distance I was at, the distance I had left, how pleased I would feel when I finished the run without stopping to walk, counting down until I could have the next stinger chew or the mini-payday.  I have been taking a stinger chew (I previously used the GU chomps, but I like that the stingers are softer and smaller, so they are easier to chew while running) at miles 5 and 15.  I have been eating a mini payday bar at mile 10.  On my last two long runs, I found myself feeling very hungry around mile 16.  I have just been drinking water, but I do have a fizz drink with my breakfast in the morning. 

After the run, I was signed up to participate in the SHARE walk.  The National Share Walk for Remembrance & Hope is an annual event to remember the lives of babies that were lost during pregnancy loss, stillbirth or in the first few months of life. This walk provides an ceremony of hope, giving each baby a chance to be recognized while all of the names of those lost are read.  My friend and co-worker, Marissa Steinhoff, lost her baby Paige just a few days after birth in January 2011.  I wanted to complete my run in time to walk with their family.  I was able to find her, and I did complete the distance of the walk, but I did not get to walk with the Steinhoff/Godefroid families.  In my thoughts, I dedicated the 20 mile run, plus the extra mile I walked up to find the family and back to the car, to Paige and all the other heavenly babies.

I continue to work on fundraising for St. Jude as a St. Jude Hero for the St. Jude Memphis Marathon.  All of my training and runs are also dedicated to the families at St. Jude.  I hope the money I raise, and the time commitment of training for the marathon can in some small way help bring comfort and support to the children and families dealing with childhood cancer.  If you would like to donate to St. Jude, here is the link: 

http://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR/Heroes/Heroes?px=2093010&pg=personal&fr_id=3631

 

 

 

The Next Long Run

I find myself spending most of my week thinking about the next long run.  Each Saturday, I spend some time feeling satisfied that I completed the new distance (18 miles last Saturday!).  All day on Saturday, I feel like I have made that next step toward the marathon.  I feel my sore muscles and know I have worked hard.  I usually enjoy a nice lunch, and then find some time to relax.  On Sunday, I'm usually super hungry all day.  I also am usually so busy with all the chores that need done (laundry, cleaning, grading papers) that I don't have much time to think about things.  I either go for a 3 mile recovery jog or walk, depending how I am feeling, but I spend most of the day getting things accomplished.  Monday comes and it's back to work.  Along with getting ready for the next work week, I preview my run schedule for the upcoming week and think about where and how I will fit all the runs in.  Then I start thinking about where to go for the next long run, how far I will have to run, and what I will need to do to accomplish this new distance.  It's an endless cycle week after week, until the day of the big race....

This past Saturday, my friend Amy met up with me when I was just about finished with my 10th mile, then she ran the remaining 8 miles with me.  It was a nice pick me up to have someone join in on the second half of the run.  I kept my 10 miles going, because I knew she would be there to meet me at the expected time.  Then having someone to talk to kept me going for the final 8.  We ran on a nice looped approximately 5 mile course around a lake.  I though I'd get bored going in circles, but it wasn't bad.  Dave is still unable to run more than a short distance without discomfort, so he went on a 41 mile bike ride.  Afterwards, we went home and picked up Anna (Erik was at a friend's house) and went out to lunch.  Later on, I took Anna shopping.  We got home from shopping in time for dinner, and I was ready to crash.  I was so exhausted.  I didn't even really feel like eating dinner, and I was in bed by 9.  I think I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow!  Yesterday, Sunday, I was starving all day and couldn't get enough to eat.  I thought running a marathon would help me lose the last bit of weight I was hoping to lose, but I'm so hungry all the time.  I haven't gained weight, but I also haven't lost anymore.  I just keep going up and down the same 2-5 or so pounds from day to day and week to week.

Well, I better get ready for school.  Time to think about something else besides running for awhile, though in the back of my mind I'll be preparing for the 20 miles this Saturday......

Happy Running!

MO Cowbell Half Marathon

On Sunday, I participated in the MO Cowbell Half Marathon in St. Charles.  It was a cold morning, so I had to layer up before the race.  I met up with a neighborhood friends, and also ran into one of my sister's friends from High School (I also was her son's teacher a few years ago).  We started with a nice slow first mile to warm up, then picked up the pace just a bit.  We all stayed together until about the 10K mark.  Two of us stayed together until about the 15K mark.  Then I felt ready to kick it up a bit, so as I was going into the second half of the race (also the section with all the hills), I was able to increase my pace with each mile.  I ended up with a 2:11:11 finish time.  This was my best half marathon time! (This is half marathon number 5 in one year's time).  It average to a 10:01 pace.  Now I look back at the miles where I could have taken off 5-15 seconds in the earlier miles, but I did what I set out to do.  My goal was to run a negative split race to see if it was a better race, and it definitely got me a better time! 

My sister also ran in the half marathon with another friend of ours.  She finished strong with a time inbetween her first half and her fastest half (this was her 3rd half marathon in just 5 months).

My mom ran in the 5K and placed 3rd in her age group!  She hadn't been able to run since July, due to a surgery, and she had only returned to running about 3 weeks ago.  Dave also ended up run/walking the 5K, as he is still recovering from an injury and going through physical therapy.  I'm hoping he can get back to running soon, so we will be prepared for our full in December!

Hard to believe we are just 7 weeks away from the marathon!  I'm getting excited and nervous when I think about it, but most of the time I'm really just focused on that next long run.

Still Training for the Full Marathon

I am about 2 months away from the full marathon.  My longest run to date was a 16 mile run last weekend.  It went well.  I finally ran on a course with hills again, after several weeks on running on flat or mostly flat courses.  My ankle/foot still feel tight quite often, but the doctor said it probably would not be 100% until I was recovering after the full and took some time off or at least cut back on the miles for awhile.  Fundraising is going well for St. Jude.  I officially have raised $430 toward my goal of $500.  I have another $260 at home that I have collected and will be sending in soon, so my actual total is $690.  Not bad after a month of fundraising.  It is great to have supportive friends and family!

Tomorrow I will be running the MO Cowbell Half Marathon.  It is the "trial run" midway through the training to see how things are going toward the full.  My sister is running it, as are some other friends.  My mom is running the 5K at the same time.  Soon my parents will be arriving, and my mom and I will be heading down to the expo to pick up our race numbers, shirts, and cowbells. 

Dave is now injured.  After I am finally on the road to recovery and running again, though still with some discomfort, Dave now can't run without limping.  He is trying ASTYM to see if it can help him, too.  He just started the ASTYM this week, so he does not think he'll be able to run tomorrow.  So disappointing, especially as he has ended up injured at some point in his training for all the full and half marathon trainings we have completed.

I'm giving Juice Plus a try to see if it helps with my training and health.  It's hard to say if it is or not.  I really haven't been sick as often as I used to since I have been eating healthier and running.  This ankle/foot injury was my first injury throughout my training, but it happened before I started the Juice Plus.  I have noticed that I don't seem to have as much muscle soreness after my long runs, but I do feel fatigued at times.  I am putting in more miles than I have at any prior point in the last year and a half of running, so it makes since that at times my legs would feel tired.  I'm trying to get to bed on time each night and eat right, but sometimes it's hard to do. 

I'll try to get an update in on how the run went.  Happy running!

ASTYM = Back to Running!!

I finally went to a sport's medicine doctor to figure out what is going on with my ankle and foot.  After some X-rays, it was determined that nothing appears to be broken.  I was diagnosed with tendonosis.  The tendon running from my little toe to my knee appears to have scar tissue built up.  The doctor sent me for ASTYM from a Physical Therapist.  I was very nervous for my first treatment, as many people (including the doctor) told me it was quite uncomfortable.  It actually wasn't as bad as I expected.  After a warm up and stretching, the PT did a sort of deep tissue massage using these plastic implements.  Afterwards, I did some more stretching, an ultrasound on my ankle and foot, and electric shocks on the area.  The therapy was on the Friday at the start of the Labor Day weekend, and on that Saturday I was able to go for a mile and a half walk (with 4 runs of 50 paces).  Then on Sunday, I went on a 2 mile walk/run (alternating 50 paces at a walk and 50 paces at a run).  Monday (Labor Day), I went on a 7 mile bike run and then did the 1 1/2 hr P-90X yoga workout.  Tuesday, I ran 2 miles....running the whole way.  I slowed down my pace a bit on the first mile, but I was closer to my usual pace on mile 2.  Wednesday, I returned for a second ASTYM, and then I was able to run 3.1 miles on Thursday.  Another ASTYM on Friday (this time on my knee-hip area), and today, Saturday, I went out for my first long run in a month!! I was able to run 10 miles.  I ran a bit slower than I would usually run, but I was actually a faster pace than I had been doing on my long runs using the run/walk stategy.  Today I ran and tried to keep my pace around 11 or jus under per mile.  I ended up with an average pace of 11:01.  This is within the suggested pacing guidelines for my long runs, so I am happy with this performance!!  My ankle and foot felt tight at times, but I never had more than a little discomfort.  I truly enjoyed being out there again....especially just getting out there to run and not worrying about the pace.  I now feel that I will be able to complete the half marathon, 15K, and full marathon that I am signed up for this Fall!!  I am hopeful that I can now return to following a schedule of runs. 

My First Running Injury

I returned from my month long trip excited that I still felt on track.  I was busy getting all the laundry finished and the house in order, along with getting my classroom set up for school to start in just one week.  I also made it out for a run around the subdivision, which was nice and comforting running the old familar route after the time on the road.  Then, I went out for my next long run (15 miles).  I was excited about reaching this new distance.  This would be my farthest run to date.  Dave and I set out on roads we have run before, just a new combination of the roads to make the distance we needed.  The weather was nice and cool that Saturday morning, and it felt wonderful to be out running.  I was following Jeff Galloway's run/walk/run plan for the longer runs.  I ran 4 minutes, then at the beep of my watch, I would walk a minute then resume running.  All was going well, then between mile 9 and 10, I felt discomfort in my left foot.  I didn't notice twisting my foot or anything, it just started bothering me.  My shoe was feeling tight up around the laces, so I stopped and loosened the laces and retied my shoe.  My foot continued to bother me, so I tried walking 2 minutes for every 3 minutes of running.  I also slowed down my running pace a bit.  I finished the 15 miles, then had about 1/2 mile walk back to the car.  As I was walking after the run, my foot continued to bother me more.  When I returned to the car, I removed my shoe and noticed my foot looked a bit bruised and was beginning to swell.  When we got home, I elevated and iced my foot.  By that night, I could not walk on my  foot at all.  Dave watched me hopping and crawling around, so he went and bought a pair of crutches.  Sunday morning (Augst 12, my birthday....of all days), I still could not walk at all, so we went to urgent care.  The x-ray did not show any breaks, so they said it was a foot sprain.  I had to use crutches for a couple of days and wear a post-op shoe on my foot.  So during the two days of back to school meetings, I had to use crutches and hobble around on the post-op shoes.  I had to wear the shoe for a week.  Luckily, another teacher at school brought in a special scooter that I could use to get around for the week, because after one day of crutches my arms were sore!! 

Week two, I've had to continue to wrap my foot with an ace bandage.  It is still swollen, though there is not much of a bruise anymore.  I'm doing some of the foot exercises to regain movement and strength in my foot, but it is still very uncomfortable.  I feel a continuous discomfort in my foot.  I don't know if I need to go back to a doctor or wait it out.  When Dave hurt his ankle, he was out of running for about 7 weeks.  I'm feeling very anxious after almost 2 weeks.  I'm worried about how much I have lost after 2 weeks of not running...and how much it will take to build back up.  Right now, I'm just having to wait and see.  I'm also worried about keeping my weight under control.  So far, it's okay....I'll just have to eat smarter and lighter until I can get running again....or find another exercise to do.  So far, anything I have tried has still aggrevated my foot.  I have to heal...I know that, but it's hard to just give it time!!

Running Through Europe July 10-August 7

We had a fabulous 28 day trip all over Europe.  We started in Switzerland visiting Dave's family.  While there, we also took an overnight into France with Dave's cousin and her husband.  Dave and I were able to get in some nice runs along Lake Geneva.  There was a paved bike/running/walking trail along the road, and in some spots you could get a nice view of the lake.  It was flat and the weather was cool in the mornings, so it made for some good paces while running.  After 6 nights in Switzerland, we went to Italy.  It was difficult to run in Monterosso, because it required a lot of back and forth down short, narrow streets and back and forth from the new town to the old town to get in the miles, but the view of the Mediterranean Sea made it quite nice :)  After our 5 nights there, we had 3 nights in Rome and 2 nights in Venice.  I didn't run in Rome, because all the people and cars everywhere, along with some of the side streets being cobblestone....and rain on the morning I planned to run, made running difficult.  We did walk many miles each day we were there, so I felt adequately tired at the end of each day.  In Venice, I did go for a run, along with several walks.  My pace was slower, as I was continually having to go on a bridge (usually with many steps) over a canal.  I got turned around while I was running, so after logging 5.5 miles on my Garmin, I had to get the map out and figure out how to get back to the hotel.  It was about 1/2 mile walk back to the hotel, but I was able to find the way.  Next, we went to Lake Bled in Slovenia.  We stayed in a place right across from the lake.  We had to cross the road, but then there was a paved trail around the lake.  The trail was about 3.7 miles around.  I ran the trail 3 times over the 5 nights we were there.  One day, I ran 13 miles on the trail.  It required 2 times all the way around, then out and back for the last couple of miles.  Dave went ahead and ran 3 times around, to get in 15 miles.  Next, we went to Obertraun, Austria.  We were there 4 nights.  I ran one day that we were there.  I ran from Obertraun to Hallstatt and back, along a paved trail by the road.  The trail included nice views of Lake Hallstatt and the mountains.  We also took several walks.  The last stop was Bacharach, Germany where we stayed for our final 3 nights.  I ran one of the days there.  The bad thing was, it was 1/4 mile down hill into town and then after running 5.5 miles, 1/4 mile back up hill to the castle where we stayed.  The views from the castle...and just the idea of getting to sleep in a former castle, made the climb worth it.  Then it was time to return home. 

I felt pleased that I was able to keep running on the trip.  When I missed a run, it was usually because we were going for a long hike or walk that day, so I felt adequately active.  We enjoyed ourself with eating and drinking basically whatever we felt like, and we were still able to maintain our weight.  I noticed I wasn't always able to keep the best pace, but I think I was looking around and enjoying the scenery....which was what made running on vacation fun!  I felt great returning from my trip still feeling on track toward training for the half and full marathons coming in the fall!

Why Do I Run?

I just finished reading a book called Mile Markers:  The 26.2 Reasons Why Women Run by Kristin Armstrong.  The book has excerpts from her journals and blog, I believe, speaking to various reasons why we run.  I was greatly moved by many of the posts in the book.   Though the author has weekly speed work and participates in running clubs, thereby running much faster than I can run, I can relate to many of her thoughts about running, family, and life.  I felt inspired to keep running and keep improving in all aspects of my life after reading this book.

So that got me thinking....why do I run?  I've written before about why I started running (basically to help with losing weight and then maintaining that weight while still being able to eat), but I know many other people who started running and then quit.  Why have I continued to run?  I think it first was a great challenge.  That first time I ran and couldn't even make it a mile without walking, I knew I had to try again.  As I trained for the first 5K and then the first 10K, I already saw my pace improving and my stamina improving.  As I trained for my first half marathon, I felt myself getting in the best shape I have probably ever been in.  I'm not the lowest weight I have ever been, but I would say I'm still the most fit I have ever been.  After each race, the challenge becomes can I match or beat my personal record for that distance.  I also must admit that I do enjoy receiving those medals (having not been one to play sports as a kid, I didn't get that experience before in athletics), and seeing the medals hang on the display rack in the computer room reminds me of the hard work I put in to be able to complete the races.  I can revisit my favorite races in my mind, and also think back to the most challenging races..."What did I do well?" and "What can I do better?"

I didn't really have a hobby that I loved when I first started running.  I dabbled in scrapbooking from time to time, but I didn't really have anything that was my own.  A time for me to do something good and/or enjoyable for myself.  I spent too much time watching TV and snacking.  I enjoyed travel, but once the next vacation is planned there is still a lot of time left over while I just have to wait for that vacation to arrive.  Then there is the problem of having to wait for the next break to take another trip.  There is also the problem of having to save up money for the next trip.  There is definitely a limit to the amount of travel I can afford and have the time to go.  I also wasn't the most faithful to any workout plan I ever started.  I joined a gym once, signing up for a one year membership.  I attended faithfully for about 6 months, then my attendance became more sporadic.  I just could never get myself back into the routine once I got out of it.  It was easy to find excuses.  I would also buy workout videos and again stay faithful for a while, then gradually fall away.  I think running has become a hobby and a way to stay fit. 

Signing up for races forces me to stick to a plan.  I know if I don't stick to my plan I won't be able to go the distance in the race.  I don't see myself as really competing with anyone but myself.  I want a personal record when I can get one.  I feel a bit discouraged when I'm not able to get a PR, though I know the longer I run, especially, it will become harder to see big improvements.  Now that my focus is completing the first full marathon, I'm less focused on a faster pace as I focus on getting my body and mind prepared to go the distance of 26.2 miles. The shorter runs building up (10K, 15K, Half Marathon) are more rehearsals for the longer run than opportunities to get a PR (though I'd still like a PR).  I'm really noticing how the weather, the amount of sleep I've gotten, and what I've been eating and drinking can affect my performance.  I can't control the weather, and I'm not willing to totally give up enjoying good food and drink, so I won't always be the best I can be....and I'm okay with that (most of the time:) )  I see races as a celebration of my health and fitness journey.  It's a chance to get together with others of all shapes, sizes, and abilities, and celebrate the journey each of us has taken to get there.

Happy Running!

It's Hot!!

Missouri is in the midst of one of the hottest summers on record.  This week the temps are climbing into the 100's daily.  It's hard to make yourself get out and run, but I have been living up to the challenge of completing my runs.  In all my previous races, I have followed Hal Higdon's training plans.  As I prepare to tackle my first full marathon, I have read both the Hal Higdon Marathon book and Jeff Galloway's book on running a marathon.  Jeff Galloway's plan is a lengthier plan with longer "long" runs.  The plan lasts 6 months leading up to the full.  I am on Week 4 of the plan, and I have completed all of my runs and cross training days so far.  Today we ran a hilly 9 mile run.  The temp was in the 80's already when we started running a little after 7 am.  I am trying out the run/walk plan suggested by Jeff Galloway for the long runs.  In all of my half marathons, I have walked the water stations, and I have had to walk at some point along the run in the later miles.  For the full marathon, I'm hoping that following the run/walk plan will allow me to not "hit the wall" at mile 20 (or earlier). 

Since it was hot and our route was hilly, I used a run 4 minutes/ walk 1 minute approach.  I maintained this pattern for about 4.5 miles when we hit one of the "mega hills" on the run.  I had to add a little extra walking up the hill.  As I continued beyond this hill, there were several other hills on which I had to walk more than I would have liked.  I ended up finishing the 9 miles with an average pace of 11:25.  This is probably the slowest pace I've had on a run in quite awhile.  (Though it falls within the recommended pace for me to train in for a long run--especially on such a hot day).  Though I was a little unhappy that I allowed the heat and hills to get to me, I felt exhilaration to have completed the run on a day when many people I know would have said, "It's too hot to run today." 

Dave chose the route today, and I should be thankful to him for pushing me beyond my comfort zone.  He believes in my ability to improve and push beyond where I am.  When I sometimes say, "I don't know if I can do this," he will say, "Yes, you can!"  Dave is able to continue to run an admirable pace with the heat and hills.  He averaged a 9:24 pace....which I guess is slower than his goal race pace, too.  I guess I just need to accept the fact that I will not keep up with him. 

As we approach the middle of the summer break and prepare to embark on our summer trip, I am looking forward to truly enjoying myself as we travel throughout Europe (Switzerland, France, Italy, Slovenia, Austria and Germany).  I am planning on making time to stay true to the training plan as I prepare for a half marathon in October, 15K in November, and Full Marathon in December.  I look forward to running in different towns, cities and countries.  I am excited to see where the roads and trails will lead.

Next week I have on last race before our trip; a 10K on July 4.  A good friend of mine, Nicole, will be running it as well.  It will be her first 10K.  I hope she is able to enjoy the race and the accomplishment of reaching a new distance.

June 15- Two More Half Marathons Completed!

Where does the time go?  Since my last post, I completed a half marathon in Schaumburg, Illinois on May 20.  When I signed up for the run, I didn't realize it was the same weekend as my daughter's dance recital.  Luckily, my mom and sister were able to take over recital duties.  I think Anna enjoyed having Grandma and Aunt Aimee there for her, though they said she did everying herself and they just sat back and enjoyed the show.

Dave was able to run the half marathon, after finally recovering from his injury this spring.  We received an email telling us that due to the heat, the start time was being moved up half an hour.  Dave and I enjoyed our weekend away, going out for dinner and drinks the night before.  The Chicago style pizza, bread sticks, and beer were a little too much for my system.  I was in the bathroom continuously from 2 am to 3 am.  I then had a difficult time eating breakfast, as my stomach was still feeling a bit out of sorts.  This combined with temps rising into the 80's led to the worse time I've gotten on a half marathon.  It probably didn't help that it was also the last week of school, so I'd been busy packing, completing grades, and maintaining some order with very excited students.  My time was 2:24:08.  After completing the GO! St. Louis Half Marathon in April in 2:12:32, I was very dissapointed.  I was feeling tired at this race, and I could tell a mile in that I would not be performing as well as I had at the GO!  I had also ran in a 10K at the end of April.  I don't know if I was "overtrained" or if the combination of things led to this "worst race" time.  Not that I haven't had an 11 minute average pace before, but it's been a year since I had that pace.  Dave was able to complete his race in under two hours with a time of 1:57:17.  He was pleased to get in under two hours.  He ran the first mile with me, trying to help me improve my time until I told him to go on and run his race.

Here is a picture of us before the race, and one of us back home with our medals.

Dave and I wrapped up the school year with the last day of school the day following the race, and then one more final work day before our summer break began. We kicked off summer break by taking a 4 night get away in Hot Springs, Arkansas while the kids spent some time with their grandparents. It was a nice break. We still completed all of our runs, did some hiking, got a massage, had some nice meals out, and just enjoyed the break. 

Dave and I wrapped up the school year with the last day of school the day following the race, and then one more final work day before our summer break began. We kicked off summer break by taking a 4 night get away in Hot Springs, Arkansas while the kids spent some time with their grandparents. It was a nice break. We still completed all of our runs, did some hiking, got a massage, had some nice meals out, and just enjoyed the break.

It was finally time for the last half marathon of the spring. We drove up to Grinnell, Iowa for the Grinnell Games Half Marathon. My parents and sister came along. It was going to be my mom and sister's first half marathon. They had followed a 16 week plan I created for them. I actually used the Hal Higdon beginner plan, but then repeated some of the weeks to help them build up. I also increased their long runs slightly, because they wanted to run the 13.1 distance once before the actual race. Dave completed his first sprint triathlon Friday night. He swam 400 meters, biked 6.6 miles and ran 2.5 miles. He completed it in 52 minutes. He was happy with this first tri and decided to sign up for another. Then on Saturday, we had the half marathon at 8:00. Of course, it was another hot day. Temps were in the upper 70's by start time and in the 80's by our finish. Dave took a few minutes off his time, finishing in 1:54:23. He was the 34th finisher out of 109 finishers. I finished in 2:16:57. I was the 80th finisher. It was nice running in a small town race. Less "hoopla" than the big city races, but much more personal. There was a guy that finished on second behind me that I had been back and forth with for about the last 3 miles. In the last half mile, I had gotten ahead of him. He tried to catch me with a sprint to the finish, but when I heard him on my tail I too picked up my pace. I managed to stay ahead of him through the finish! As silly as that little victory is, I felt powerful by keeping him from passing me. Also, though this is not a personal record, I'm pleased that it is my second best finish time, and I beat the heat this time with a much stronger finish than I had in Schaumburg. I kept my pace below 10 minute miles (with the exception of one mile at 10:06) through the 8th mile. On mile 9, a large hill followed by no water at the water station (there was Gatorade and ice chips, so I did get something, but I walked a bit longer than usual trying to chomp on the ice chips), caused me to slow down. On mile 10, I was able to get a little back into my grove at a 10:30 pace, but then on miles 11-13, I alternated running with walking with my pace averaging out into the 11's on each of those miles. My overall pace came out in the 10:20 range. Not terrible, but not as good as my 10:07 average pace in St. Louis at the GO! Half Marathon. But, I know not every race can be a PR, especially when doing several races in a short period of time.

Here's a pic of us before the race.

After finishing, I walked back to find my mom and sister and give them support to finish the race.  The last few miles are the toughest.  When I found them, they were together on the course.  I gave them each a drink, and my sister picked up her pace and finished strong.  She finished the race in 2:51:19.  Her goal was to make it under 3 hours, and she did it!  I jogged with Mom a bit, then sent her on to finish her race.  She finished in 2:53:00.  I'm so proud of the hard work my mom and sister put in to become half marathoners!  Aimee is already signed up for another half marathon in July in Maine.  My mom was already talking about what things she would do differently "if I do another half."  I think we've all caught the running bug!

Here we are after the race with our medals! (We let Dad and Anna in the picture because they held signs for us during the run:))

Running 13.1 Miles

There is something magical about running 13 miles.  Each time I complete the distance, whether in a race or in a training run, I feel like I have truly accomplished something.  Today my mom and sister completed a 13.1 mile run for the first time.  It was very hot and humid by the time we completed our runs, but that just made the accomplishment feel even greater and hard won.  I am excited about the next half marathon race in 2 weeks.  I am hoping it is not as hot and humid as it was today, so I can hopefully achieve a new personal best.  The course is much flatter than the GO! St. Louis, so I should be able to improve on my time.  Dave has recovered enough to complete a 12 mile run today, and he is planning to run with me for most or all of the next half, so I can reach a new milestone.  I am looking forward to my mom and sis completing their first "official" half on June 9.  Again, hoping for better temps than today.  I do not think I will be getting a personal best if the temps and humidity are too high.  There is something about running in extreme cold, extreme heat, or rain that again makes me feel powerful and like I have overcome an additional obstacle.

I am now signed up to run in my first full marathon on December 1.  Dave and I will be running in the St. Jude's Memphis Marathon.   I have been trying to select a marathon, and I initially planned on doing the Bass Pro Marathon in Springfield, MO, but then I saw this one.  We will have to start training the last week of our vacation, but that should be okay.  I'm nervous about the increased distance, and completing all of my training throughout the first semester of the school year, but I'm not getting any younger so there is no time like the present to give 26.2 a try.  I never really had a "bucket list".  When I started running in February 2011, I intended to run a 5K and a 10K with the possibility of a half.  I feel so much stronger and healthier a little over a year later.  I'm hoping I can stay healthy and injury free as I reach for this next level.

GO! St. Louis Half Marathon Completed

Finished the first of my 3 spring half marathons today.  Happy to say I have a new personal record for the half marathon.  Official race time of 2:12:32, with an avg. pace of 10:07.  This is 6 minutes faster than my overall time at the Rock and Roll Half 6 months ago.  It is rewarding when the hard work of training pays off with better finish times.  It was windy, a little on the warmer side (for running), and the hills were long, but I still managed to improve my time!  Let's hope I can continue to improve at the next two half marathons that are on flatter courses!

Dave couldn't run, but he was a real trooper.  He came along and took pictures of me (and some of our friends) before, during and after the run.  We enjoyed a nice dinner out the night before the race and a nice lunch today before heading home. Dave was able to run 1 mile yesterday and 2 miles today, after walking around a total of 5 miles while cheering us on at different spots.  Hopefully he is on the road to recovery and will be able to run with me on May 20!

Here's our group with our medals after the half marathon.

11 days to Go!

Completed a 5 mile run  yesterday and another one today.  Yesterday I tried to keep it easy, but I was feeling tired still from the week, and the temp was still a little higher than I'd prefer.  Also I noticed a lot of people cutting grass, and that grass in the air seems to make me itch and affect my breathing somewhat.  Today's 5 mile run consisted of a .25 mile warm up followed by .25 mile at slightly faster than 5K pace to 5K pace alternating with .25 mile of recovery.  The track at the high school has been occupied with the track team recently, so I found a local trail in a park that is about a .25 mile loop.  The only problem is that it has hills within the loop, but that may not neccessarily be a bad thing as I prepare for a half marathon that will have its fair share of hills.

Dave was able to complete a 2.5 mile run on Monday, but then was unable to run without limping on Tuesday.  He is back to getting his miles in on the bike.  He is still considering going out and trying to complete the half marathon anyway, but we'll see what he decides the day of the race.

So happy with the progress my mom is making in her running.  My sis, too!  It will be fun to complete the half marathon with them in June, knowing that I somewhat helped inspire them to start running and train for the half.

It's funny how often people say to me, "I think I saw you out running the other day."  Which always opens the door to how running as improved my health and changed my lifestyle.  Often times, I will hear how the person is unable to run, has never tried running, or has a desire to try a run.  I am thankful for the friends of mine that told their running stories (and my hubby for encouraging me along the way) that inspired me.  Hopefully I can pass it on and help someone else become healthier and happier, too!

Only 2 More Weeks!

Time flies when you're having fun... and it also flies when you are checking off the workouts day by day on the 12 week intermediate half marathon training plan.  3 more workouts this week, then just 2 weeks until the big day.  The first of the 3 spring half marathons I am signed up for.  I ran a practice 13.1 on Saturday, and I completed it in 2 hours and 16 minutes, 2 minutes faster than the half I ran in the fall.  I ran on the levee in Chesterfield, which is flatter than the course will be in downtown St. Louis, but I think in a race I will increase my pace.  Sunday I ran a 5 mile easy recovery.  I also ran an "easy" 5 miles yesterday, but it didn't feel that easy when it was 86 degrees outside.  Today, the temp also said 86 in the sun, but there was a bit of a breeze and by mostly staying on the shaded side of the streets, it didn't seem as bad as yesterday.  Today I worked on my pace, and kept my pace under 10 minutes per mile, except for the first mile when I was warming up.  It felt good to keep my pace under 10 minutes per mile with the afternoon heat, because I know I am capable of keeping that pace.  I ran for 45 minutes, which was just over 4.5 miles.  My goal for the half is to try to keep at 10 minute miles, or as close as I can.  Dave thinks I can do it.  I think I can if I hold myself back at the beginning and don't take off too fast.  Also if the weather is right:)

I am 2 pounds away from hitting my goal of losing 50 pounds.  It has been almost 15 months since I started the process of losing weight and getting in shape.  I am hoping to hit the 50 pound mark by the date of the half!  Happy Running!

Training Week 9

Week 9 of training for the first of my 3 spring half marathons.  Hard to believe the first of the 3 half marathons if just about 3 weeks away.  I find that I think about my running a lot.  I'm always looking at the Fleet Feet and Big River Running race calendars to see what races are coming up.  I read the entire Runner's World magazine as soon as it arrives each month.  I find my relationships with some of my non-running family, friends and, coworkers slipping as my relationships grow with my family, friends, and coworkers who run.  I guess this is normal as interests change.  As I have started to think of myself as "a runner" as opposed to just "someone who runs", I have noticed my whole lifestyle and outlook on life changing, too. 

My husband has a running related injury (the doc thinks a muscle tear) and has not been able to run for about 3 weeks now.  It has made him grumpy and angry at times.  Each week he goes out and tries again to run, only to return more frustrated.  He is fearful that he won't be able to run in time to complete the April half.  I feel a little guilty after each run, because I know he wishes he could be going out for his run, too.  He has been biking, walking, and doing the P90X videos hoping this will keep him fit enough to jump back into the running as quickly as possible once he is healed.

Last weekend I had a scare myself that I would be injured.  During a 10 mile run, I turned on a golf course trail to take a path that would circle me back to my mom.  The trail was a bumpy black top surface.  It had been raining lightly during some of our run, and there were puddles and muddy places on the trails due to rain the night before, as well.  As I was almost to mile 8 taking this side trail, I slipped and skidded on my knee, hand and elbow.  In my head I was screaming, "NO!", because I was fearful of a serious injury that would mess up my training.  I sat back up and looked around first to see if anyone had noticed my fall.  I grabbed the water bottle that had fallen out and put it back in my belt.  I then hopped up and walked up the small hillside back to the main road and resumed my running.  I ran the last 2 miles at a faster pace than the rest of my run as my knee, hand and elbow were scraped and bleeding.  I felt like a real warrior! :)  The scrapes are still healing on my knee, hand and elbow, but at least it was all surface wounds and I have been able to stay on track with my training.

It really heated up the last two weeks.  It feels a little harder to keep a faster pace with the temp in the upper 70's and into the 80's.  Today was nice because it was back in the upper 50's when I went out for my run.

Went shopping last weekend and was so excited to need a size 8.  I ended up with a few things in a size 10, but many in a size 8!  Oh, happy day!  The running is paying off!

Continued Training and Another Half

In the month of February I ran a total of 95 miles.  This was the most miles I have ran in a month up until this point.  I know there are elite runners logging that many miles in a week, but I feel strong and healthy knowing I was able to complete this amount of running on top of working and being a wife and mother.  I hope I am balancing all of the roles in my life.  At times I feel less focused on the other aspects of my life as I focus on training for the half marathons coming up.  At other times I feel truly balanced and relaxed now that I am healthier.

I was nervous about keeping up the intermediate schedule of 5 running days per week, but so far it has not felt like a chore most of the time.  I have looked forward to my runs most days, or at least not dreaded it.  I am at a point where the feeling I have after completing a run makes me look forward to running. 

My mom and sister have now decided to attempt their first half.  The three of us signed up for a half in June in Grinnell, IA.  It should be a fun little road trip, too.  My dad and daughter are going to come along and cheer us on, while my husband and son have a boy scout event that weekend.  The June have will be my third half of a half a month for three months.  I am now scheduled to run a half in April, a half in May and a half in June.  We will be travelling in July and early August, then school will resume in August.  I'm looking at signing up for a half in October and then either another half or possibly a full in November.  Trying to figure out if it will be possible to train on the trip.  Also, signed up for a 7K in 2 weeks.  That is just for fun.

Time to get ready for work, so I'll have to sign off for now.  Loving the beautiful weather that is making it easier to run.  The winds have not been so great, but the temperatures have been fabulous!

5 Weeks In

5 Weeks into the training for my 2nd half marathon, and I am feeling great.  This passed weekend I ran in a 4 mile race with an official time of 37:34 which is an average pace of 9:24.  I have to stop at think that one year ago I couldn't even run an entire mile without stopping and at my first 5K last April my pace was 11:38 (finish time of 36:03).  I can almost run 4 miles in the time I could run 3.1.  I feel so much happier and healthier one year later.

Also this weekend I completed a 10 mile run on Sunday.  Again, it is crazy that one year ago I couldn't run a mile and now I ran 4 miles in a race one day and completed 10 miles the next.  My average pace on my long 10 mile run was 10:22- faster than my 5K pace a year ago--and on a training run!  I feel so blessed that I am able to get out and run and continue to improve in my health and athletic abilities.  I will never be the fastest person out there, and I will never win a gold medal at the olympics, but I am just happy that I can get out and run. 

Tomorrow I have to go have a basal cell skin cancer removed.  The doctor said it will need stitches, so I will probably have to take a week off from my running and training.  I did my pace work last night at the track and am going to get my long run in today, and then a short recovery run in the morning before I go to the doctor.  I hope this week off doesn't affect my training.  I think I'll be okay, since I have stuck to the schedule and even done extra as far as the distance runs. 

I still find myself constantly thinking about where and when I will do my next run.  I am constantly searching through new races.  We are signed up for a 7K in March, a half in April and a half in May, so far.  My mom and sis are considering trying their first half in June, so if they do I will run that with them.  I have started looking into the fall and am considering either 2 half marathons or a half and a full.  I have to decide if I will be able to handle training along with our month long trip through Europe. 

Time to get ready for work.  Happy running!  Tonight I'm planning on an 8 miler:)

A Year of Runs in 2011

My first 10K at St. Charles Community College.
April 2011

My first 5K
Crusaders 5K
O'Fallon, MO
March 2011

Mom placed in her age division!
Quail Ridge
Run for Your Life 5K
June 2011

Aimee and I both placed in the Athena Division!
Run for Your Life 5K
Quail Ridge Park
June 2011

Run for Your Life 5K
Quail Ridge Park
June 2011

Hot Chocolate 15K
Chicago, IL
November 2011

Dave placed in his Age division!
Run for Your Life 5K
Quail Ridge Park
June 2011

Fight Like a Firefighter 5K
September 2011
We ran in the rain, and I finished in 29 minutes!

Mom, Dad and Anna in their first 5K race.
The course was accidently shortened, so it was around 2.5 miles instead.
Chesterfield, MO
May 2011

Rock and Roll Half Marathon
St. Louis, MO
October 23, 2011

Anna at the 5K
June 2011

5K and 10K Run at The Mills
I finished my 10K in 59 minutes!
Aimee's first 10K.
Erik ran with Grandpa in the 5K.
Grandma placed again in her age division in the 5K!
October 2011

Master's Run for Remembrance 5 mile run
Mom, Dad and Erik's longest distance!
November 2011

Dave and I the night before the Rock and Roll Marathon. 
Dave completed the full marathon and I completed the half.
October 2011

Run for the North Pole 5K
We had to run dressed like Santa! 
December 2011

Two Weeks into Training

Two weeks in following the Intermediate Training Plan by Hal Higdon for the Half Marathon.  I am changing the long runs, though.  I increased the long run distances in the beginning and am following more of an increase/cut back approach.  After comparing several different training programs, it seems this is a common approach to the long runs.  Also, since I was already able to run at longer distances, I didn't see the point of cutting back to where the plan started. 

The weather has been fabulous for this time of year, which has made it easier to get in all of the runs.  I ran one run on the treadmill at my friend's gym, and I really did not enjoy running inside on a treadmill.  I think I don't feel like I accomplished as much because I didn't have the scenery going by, and I didn't brave the elements and the hills.  Silly, I know, but that's what I enjoy about running outside.  You see where you are going and where you have been.  You see the challenge ahead of you (a distance to get to, a hill to conquer) and then after you make it, you feel a sense of accomplishment.

Week 1:  3 easy 3 mile runs, 1 interval workout (5 400's at 5K pace alternated with 400 recovery jogs), and 1 long run (7 miles)
Week 2:  2 easy 3 mile runs, 1 tempo run (30 minutes-- hit a fastest pace of 8:15!), today is a 3 mile pace run (at half marathon pace), and tomorrow I plan on completing an 8 mile run.

Feeling good about the runs so far.  Printed off the training pace zones off the McMillan Running Calculator.  Some of the training paces seem slower than what I feel like running, but I'm trying to stick a little closer to the recommended training zones to see if it truly improves my running better than just running the pace that I feel like running each day.  Sometimes, though, a certain pace just feels right on a certain day.  Not quite to the year mark of when I started running, so I'm still learning.  I have been reading Runner's World, Hal Higdon's Mararthon training book, and various information on the web.  I love that I feel calmer and less stressed.  When I visited the doctor for a check up, she was pleased with my weight loss and my blood pressure is the best it has been!  My blood pressure used to run up near the boarderline range and was even in the high range when I was pregnant with each of the children.  I don't remember the last time my numbers were this good!

Dave continues to do the P90X training program and running at the same time.  That is more than I want to do at this time.  I did the P90X for one month again, but phased it out as I started the running program.  I know I need to work in some strength training and yoga or stretching, but there are only so many hours in the day and sometimes I just want to relax.  I sometimes feel like I'm not doing enough because I'm not working out as much as Dave, but then I look at how far I have come in the last year, and I think I'm doing alright.  Looking back through pics from the last year, I can see the transformation I have undergone.  I feel like a healthier, happier person than I was a year ago.  I'm just sad that we had to say, "Goodbye" to my mother-in-law along the way.  As I was becoming healthier, I saw her losing her health.  Dave and I are trying to encourage my father-in-law to stay healthy and take care of himself, but he doesn't think it matters anymore.  I'm worried about what the future holds for him if he won't do the things he needs to do to take care of his health.  I think he always thought he'd go first, so he never pictured his life alone.  Hoping we can help him through this difficult transition time and find life again on the other side.  I think taking up running was a life saver for Dave and I.  We have had a focus and a release to help us through the life changes going on around us.

Looking forward to the next 10 weeks and completing the next half marathon with a better time.  Then a second half marathon 5 weeks later.  Hoping to beat a time of 2:10 in at least one of the two half marathons.