Good Morning

Back on the TM for 3 this morning.  Plus the exercises.  Had some discomfort in that damn left heel for the first half mile or so.  Then it seemed to loosen up and was fine.  Going to be a chronic thing I guess.  Otherwise it was all fine.

Hope you're feeling better today.

Quick Post

I'm tired and hungry so this is short and sweet! I did run 3 miles this am. I'm getting up at the same time, so I have a lot more time on my hands! Anyway, 3 miles. Pace was OK - better than it has been. But it wasn't easy, if you know what I mean. That last mile was tough! I lifted some weights when I got home, too.

3 Miles!

I realized (at 3 am!) that I have a sinus infection. I've had a bit of a headache for a couple of days and my teeth have been really hurting! And at 3 I got up and had such a headache that it hurt to walk. I got up at the usual time this am and still had it and coffee didn't solve it. So you know it is serious! So I took some sinus medicine (OTC meth, I like to call it!) and headache was gone. And I even got my run in. And it was good and fun. Pretty chilly day in these parts. For these parts! I got some NyQuil so I can sleep tonight. I need drugs to counteract my other drugs! Toenail report: I am thinking maybe I will keep it! It is a lot less black and loose. And it is really not tender. We'll see!

Back at it!

Well, it's time to be a real runner again rather than a recovery runner! I had a really good run today. My toe did not bother me as much. It is still black and loose, but it is not as raised up. I think it was swollen which made it raised. So that's good. I got ready to go and realized my sock was too tight on that toe though. But I only have one single loose sock! Not even "pair". One has a giant hole in the heel! So I just wore that loose, white, long sock and one small purple sock! Heck, it worked out. Nice and cool here. It's been so hot, it is such a relief. Course, it was 70 today! So I did 3 miles. I will tell you that I am exhausted. I think I'm still recovering my energy from that marathon. It was very challenging, so that makes sense. Early to bed!

Zombie 5K!

I've already given you the verbal rundown, but I figured I'd capture it for posterity. Make it official! Saturday we did the Zombie 5K up in Temecula. The weather was great, although we could have used some cloud cover! We drove up to the course, which was a campground that they rented. Once we got checked in, we went to the start where we had to wait in a covered shoot - well, one of three. We could choose "Appetizer", "Entree", or "Dessert". Naturally, we were dessert! Then it started and we went straight uphill for a mile. No joke. Top of the hill there was some really tall, in shape looking guy who was totally passed out. There were paramedics there giving him oxygen. It was a serious hill! After mile 1, we started getting into some zombies. I think the hill in mile 1 make it way too hard to have zombies. There really wasn't much room to navigate and it was hard enough! The zombies took my flags! I figured I'd make it out with one at least, but nope! The obstacles were fun! I never did get shocked but I did get really wet and muddy. Bart survived! He had a flag at the end. Ant this was his first ever 5K medal!

A New Week

I started off the new week by running 3 miles on the TM and doing my usual 50 push ups and 50 sit ups.  I thought about running outside this morning because it is pretty nice out and the temp was 47 at 8:30 when I was finally ready to go but it was windy and I don't like being cold and I'm basically a wimp.  So the TM it was.  I checked my heart rate today and it got to 152.  Had my blood pressure checked yesterday by the Parish Nurse and she pronounced it "perfect."  Pulse rate was 59 when she checked.  So the old ticker seems to be fine.

3 miles

This morning I took my fancy shoes on a 3 mile run. The Kensington loop. I think my socks were too tight and I'll wear looser ones next time. But my shoes felt great and didn't it my toes. So I think that's good! And running felt good. Didn't hurt. Well, my toe hurt but I think we can say 'that's to be expected' and leave it at that. My pace was OK, too. I lifted weights when I got home. Tomorrow is the Zombie 5K! I'll report back on that!

Good Morning

Did another 3 miles on the TM this morning.  Heel and calves were both bothering me a little - just a little - when I started but they loosened up by 1/2 mile in and were fine thereafter.  I can't explain why the calves bothered me so much after that run.  Nothing different really.  They are much, much better now than they were on Sunday and Monday though.

By the way!

My Garmin died today! Totally charged. I had it on and walked outside. Was about to sync with the satellite when I saw it was off. Nothing I did would cause it to turn back on. I even put it back on the charger!

Prepare for excessive jealousy!

I have new shoes! And they are freaking awesome!

Cute, huh? So, here is the un-jealous part. which I've already told you. I think I'm going to lose at least one toenail. Well, it's loose. But it's not black. So the internets are telling me that it may stay attached to the nail bed. Black is the kiss of death. When I got those insoles I told my helper that my shoes felt smaller. And he....well, he wasn't too invested in helping much. I really should have gotten new shoes that day but I figured if I mentioned they felt smaller and he didn't seem too worried then I was OK. But, yes, I'm responsible for myself! My fault. I'm mostly just sharing my reasoning. Anyway, clearly they were too small. And, this morning, I did not run. I walked again. But I knew that I would not be able to run in my shoes (the Mizunos I ran the marathon in, or my Nike Frees). It just hurt too much. So I went over to Road Runner today and ended up with 3 really awesome helpers. Guy one was with Shoe Dog and I talked to him first. I explained my situation and he said, "You're absolutely right. You need bigger shoes. Let me get you to Antonio. He can help you with the shoes. But I want you to see me before you leave. Because I'm concerned that your current insoles will be too short for a bigger shoe. I want to check because I'll just make you a new pair if that turns out to be the case." Then Antonio helped me with my shoes. Note: 2 pm is the time to go! I tried on 4 different pairs and ended up getting the same Mizuno shoes as I've had the last two times - just a half size bigger and a WAY more awesome color! I told Antonio that I thought my insoles seemed to fit fine and he put his hand in my shoe and said, "No. They don't." My initial Shoe Dog guy was gone but the guy that helped me with the new insoles is the guy that Antonio said travels the country teaching everyone how to make them. And he agreed with Antonio that I needed new ones for my new shoes. So he made them and just switched them out for the other ones I had made just a few short weeks ago. So. Lots of drama we have with running, huh? Like sands through the hour glass! I'm going to try and run a couple of miles tomorrow.

Back At It

I got up at 6 and got on the TM for a 3 mile run this morning.  Calves are still a little sore but I did 3 miles with no real difficulty.  Also got back to my push ups and sit ups.  Decided last night that I just had to get back on track so I did.  Feeling pretty good.

I'm wearing my new orthotics for a while this morning.  Will wear them a couple hours this morning and then a couple more this afternoon.  I'll let you know!

Oy the toes!

My toes really smart today! Well, toe nails! Although I took no ibuprofen today and I'm wearing kind of hard shoes. And I really think it is related to my shoes more than anything. I woke up feeling physically good this morning. Really great, actually. But I did not sleep at all last night! No idea why, especially because I didn't have coffee after 10 am. But I bet I'll sleep well tonight. Anyway, I really considered sleeping in. Because, of course, I was totally sleeping hard when my alarm went off! But I did get up. And, because I was feeling so good, I thought, "Maybe I should run, not walk...." But I decided to stick to my plan. So I walked 3 miles this morning. And I was really glad that I stuck with my plan! Because, once I got going, I realized I wall full of aches and pains! Well, sore muscles, nothing too bad. After my walk, I lifted some weights. And tomorrow I'll do a bit of a jog.

More things!

And more!

In San Francisco they have a GIANT Nike store called NikeTown. It is right by Union Square, which was the expo location and where the race started. It has four levels!

Outside, they had a wall with the names of all the runners. Here I am:

And here is a video of my finish. Did I mention how thrilled I was to hear Bart call my name!?

Marathon Recovery

You were right! I'm already feeling all kinds of better today. I woke up pretty sore but, now that I'm up, I'm much less sore and stiff and, even after sitting, I'm less stiff and sore than yesterday. Which is great news! My main points of "ouch" (other than the anticipated and acceptable soreness) are my toenails. I have an old pair of Nike Free I'm going to try out this week. With my insoles. I think the insoles just made my Mitzuno shoes a little too small. They line the entire shoe, so maybe that's in. But the toe box is very stiff and I think they just beat my nails. The Frees have a mesh toe box, and I want to try that out. Anyway, the really fantastic news (I think) is that my right foot and hamstring do not hurt at all. Well, no more than would be expected post-marathon! So I really think those insoles are helping me a lot. Because I've had plantars pain for quite some time and that right ham has been sooooo tight and painful. Other good news is that my left quad made it through with no complaints whatsoever. I was more than a bit paranoid about that, so I'm pretty pleased. My post-marathon plan is: Monday: off Tuesday: off Wednesday: walk 2 - 3 miles Thursday: run 2 miles Friday: walk 2 - 3 miles Saturday: Zombie 5K! Sunday: off Monday: run 4 miles And then, after Monday, I'll get back in the swing of things. I kinda want to keep up my distance chops so it's not so hard to fall back into a training program. Like maybe one ten mile run a week. Although I plan on dedicating the rest of October and, possibly, November to getting my pace back up. That means short runs. So I'll just have to work it out!

Nike Women's Marathon: I did it!

Yes! As you know, I did it! I told Dad, I'm feeling much more nostalgic and much less head shake-y today!

How this happened: I realized that not everyone may know this story! When I was training for the 2011 Grandma's Marathon, I got the Nike Sports Watch. And it did not work. It did calculate distance. But it did not accurately calculate pace.

Witness:

Now, listen. I'm a decent runner. But I am no sub-7 minute mile runner. Know thyself. And I do. And that pace is wrong. So I got in touch with Nike and we had much back and forth with culminated in me returning the watch and emailing them a concise "this has been my product and support experience and I'm unhappy with both" email. And that's how I got to know Clover. She emailed me and said, "Your email has been shared throughout our company. We've had many meetings and many conversations while running about your experience. We appreciate the time you took to put that together. Do you want to run the NWM - on us? You can choose the full or the half."

And, like a wide eyed idealist, I signed up for the full.

Much training ensued. A few injuries occurred. A multitude of hills were run. Clover and I became email pen pals. Then veered toward email friendship. Then decided we really had to meet during the marathon weekend.

Then, a couple of weeks ago, I looked this up:

And then I read this:

http://meredithrunningworld.blogspot.com/2009/10/nike-womens-marathon-2009.html?m=1

And then Bart said, "Quit looking those things up!!!" So I did. But I also decided that I was going to do this for fun and not worry about my pace.

Pre-Trip: Bart, because he is totally awesome, changed our hotel so it was about 4 blocks from the start. Let me tell you, that took a lot of the logistical stress out of this entire event. I was remarkably unstressed about the whole getting there aspect and I think it's because I just had to wake up and walk. No buses, not 1 hour transport. It was easy!

Friday: I worked from home Friday (and wrote 3 reviews! It was great!) and then we flew to SF at 5:40 pm. Flight was only 1h 20min. Funniest part was getting on and seeing Bart acting like he was totally sick so he could save me a seat! It still makes me laugh!

We flew into Oakland, waited approximately 5 hours for our bags, got our car and when to our hotel. And then we walked down the hill to get dinner at Grab and Go Thai. And it was soooo good. I will forever regret not getting the pudding. Alas. And then we walked all around the Expo venue. It took up all of the square. But, I was telling Dad, the Grandma's expo venue is sooo much bigger. Here is a night pic:

Saturday: The hotel alarm clock went off at 4 am! Someone set it! So Bart got it unplugged. Then, I got up at 5 am so I could meet Clover for breakfast at 6:30. Yes, I require pre-coffee coffee! We met at Sears Fine Food, which was just a few blocks away from the hotel. Down the hill. Meaning I had to come back up the hill after! But we had a great time and it was really fun to meet her in person. We had no idea what the other looked like and, when I walked down the hill, I saw two women standing outside of Sears. One was looking right at me and the other was looking across the street. So I walked up to the one looking at me and said, "Clover?" and the other woman turned around and said, "I'm clover!" Funny! Anyway, it was neat and then I walked her to work at the expo.

Then I walked back up the hill and we later walked down the hill for Bart's breakfast (and I had bacon!) and then back up the hill then back down to get my packet. Bart heard someone say that, after lunch last year, packet pickup took 2 hours. We had better timing! And, actually, I think they did a better job at organization. I read some horror stories (well, bitchy complaining) online and I didn't notice the problems mentioned.

After packet pickup we wandered around a bit and also walked to my start corral.

Yes, I was number 25,908. Clover says there were about 28K registered runners!

Then we went to Baccolone at the warf:

http://www.boccalone.com/

And, wow, it was delicious! And we had some ice cream, too. It's a really neat little public market with a bunch of different vendors. Veggies, food, some goods.

The market also had a vendor wholly dedicated to mushrooms! Creepy.

Then we went back to the hotel and I obsessively prepared! I got my clothing all set for the morning. I set my alarm and got a wake up call. I got coffee and breakfast ready to make. I filled my CamelBak bladder with coconut water and got that on ice. I pre-cut my honey packets and loaded them in my pak. And then I could think of nothing else to fret on so I went to bed. At 7:25! I was really tired. And I did really sleep.

Sunday: I was up a few times but I slept till my alarm went off. And until the dumb hotel alarm clock went off again! It had a battery backup! That's fine because my own alarm was going off at 4 am. And I got up and drank a ton of coffee and ate oatmeal and drank water. And then, at 6:15, Bart walked me to my start!

Here I am before we left. Caffeinated much?!

We were going to walk some other ladies to the start (they had the same pace) but one of them forgot something in her room. Hope they made it!

Here I am getting dropped off:

So, note about the corrals. One of the things I read about last year is that the start was just a totally disorganized mess. That people could not run at pace because walkers started in front of them, that there were no start shoots, that it was hard to find out where to drop your bag. I did not read anything about the port-a-potty situation so I just prayed that was OK!

When I signed up, I had to indicate my pace. And when I got my packet I got a red wristband, the color of my pace. And I was told that I HAD to start there and would not be allowed into a different corral. Next to me a lady was trying to get into a different start time and was totally refused. So it sounds like they took that really seriously this year. In addition, someone with a different color band was trying to get into my red corral Sunday morning and she was totally denied!

And, glory be, a bunch of port-a-potties! So I got in line right away. And the ladies behind me were saying how much better this year was because, last year, there were not enough bathrooms!

And then the race started. And I waited. And waited. And waited. It was 20 to 30 minutes before I crossed the start! 28K people is no joke!

This picture doesn't even do justice to the mass of humanity! And I am so glad that I did not go into this dreaming of a PR. It was really difficult to navigate the course. If someone slower was in front of me, I just had to deal with that!

We ran through the city, down to the wharf (hello tasty salted pig parts!!!), and then.....where? Into hills. Just approximately a billion hills. Giant hills. Steep hills. Unending hills. Yes, San Francisco hills! And going up was not the only really challenging part. Down was difficult and gave more more opportunity for injury. It was very foggy and even raining a bit. So it was darn slippery. And, with that many people, there was a lot of potential to end someone's race with a ill placed foot! But I made it ok and didn't see anyone get hurt. But I've also never witnessed someone poo themselves, and I guess that happens! So who knows what I missed.

So, basically, at mile 7 I started praying to be put out of my misery!

The single more difficult point of the race came at mile 11. That's where the half marathoners broke off to from the full. And I just thought, "Would they care? The won't care if I finish with the half. Will they? Will they?" And then I thought of Bart waiting for me at the end and that I didn't want to quit. So I kept on. And I was so happy when I ran by the windmills we drove by the day before. It was great to recognize something.

At this point, I just kept praying for that finish line to magically move up to me. The hills were substantially smaller in the second half, but there were numerous. And I was blown on the first half so, at this point, any hill was a mountain!

But, finally, I had one mile left. And I ran and I was soooo glad! And I was almost to the finish and I heard Bart calling my name!! That was the BEST part! I was super super thrilled to see him! Then I finished and a San Francisco fire fighter wearing a tuxedo handed me my little blue Tiffany's box!

Bart and I met up and he hugged me and told me he was so proud of me and that was the new best part. And then we walked to the car and looked at all those poor people waiting for the shuttle! I can't even tell you - the line seemed like it would take hours. But Bart found an awesome parking spot and we shot right back to the hotel. And I took a shower (zero hot spots - a first!!!) and then we went back to Boccalone and also stopped for a creme freiche / graham cracker ice cream sandwich (excellent) and then went to the airport.

Where we were so late we had to run for our plane! And I seriously didn't think I could run a single more step!

Soon to be edited with a video of me crossing the finish line!

I went to bed at 10 (I think!) and slept till 7. Like a rock. Work at 9 and it's a giant filing deadline so I'm here till 9.

Weird things:

1. There were a lot of Team in Training people walking/running this.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Team_in_Training

Very interesting, especially the "criticism" part. Just interesting, I'm not saying it's right or wrong.

What I did notice on the course: TNT had a lot of "coaches" out to entourage and help their members. But I never saw/heard them cheer on non TNT people! If you were not one of theirs, they were silent! Very strange.

2. TNT did have some etiquette issues - mainly stopping in the middle of the course to take pictures. Like coming to a dead stop! But, otherwise, they were not as bad as I read about. Maybe they provided them a course etiquette lesson or something.

3. I bet that 3/4 of the people did the half. I've asked Clover. But the course got mighty lonely after the 1/2 split.

4. Not only does Grandma's have a larger expo venue, they have way more cheerers along the course!

5. This was 5 times more difficult than Grandma's course. And they are both Boston qualifiers!

6. This conversation happened in the car after the race:

Bart: So, will you do it again?

Me: No, never.

Bart: Wow! Well, you say that today.

Guess what? It's tomorrow and the answer is the same!

I'm super glad I did it. It was really really challenging. Way more than I even anticipated. And I did it! But that doesn't mean I want to do it again!

7. Nike didn't have a website for this event! Rather, that had a FaceBook page. I get that they're trying to partner with FB and do the social media thing but, man, websites are awesome.

8. I'm going to get shoes 1/2 size bigger. Ever since I got those insoles, mine are just too snug. I'm concerned about my toenail well being! I think I'll be OK, but I don't want to push it too far!

9. Here's a link to a 2010 video on the course: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak8fCZAnoeQ

It's a little irritating, but you get a feel for the course. It was beautiful!

CONGRATULATIONS!!

Wow!  What a feather in your cap!  I'm so proud of you!

Whistlestop

Yes, I did do it!  Ran the Whistlestop Half Marathon yesterday in Ashland and bettered my personal record by 3 minutes!  Did it in 2.21.02!  My best time ever.  +40, a little mist, no wind, low clouds so just about perfect for running.  We had a great time!  1474 finished the run.

And you are running right now as I write this.  I'm thinking about you and hope you're having a great time, too!

Hero!!!!

Wow, I'm so proud of you!!! You did it in the cold and the rain! Hurray! I hope you had fun! I love you, Fitnatic!

This is it!

Wow, I can't believe it! I feel like I've been training for this for so long! We're leaving today for the airport at 3:30. I was going to do 2 miles this morning, but it is pouring rain. So I am going to take that as a hint to rest. If it's gets beautiful later on, maybe I'll take that as a hint to not rest. Have fun in Ashland! I'm thinking of you!

So close!

Can't believe it, actually! Just a few days away! I'm pretty excited and think the entire affair will be really fun - and incredibly challenging. My goal is to do my best and have fun, so failure is an impossibility! I'm feeling substantially better. I was really worried a couple of days ago. Beautiful morning here. Cool and with really beautiful clouds. We're expecting (hoping!) for some rain this afternoon, so I suppose that's why the clouds are getting busy. I did a three mile run. Two miles tomorrow. Taking Saturday off (but will be doing a lot of walking). And then 26.2 on Sunday! And I can't believe how cold it will be for your race! Yikes! I sure hope it doesn't rain. For my part, SF is actually looking to hit 71 on Sunday. Sounds like a perfect day for a run!

Much Better

Pretty sure I have a sinus thing going on here. Which kind of makes sense because the weather is changing and getting all wintery here. I mean, I think it was only 70 today! Did my short 3 mile run. Another tomorrow. I'm supposed to take Friday off and do 2 miles on Saturday, but I think I'll switch that around. I'm going to be doing a lot of walking on Saturday because of the expo. Also! I have a date with my Nike pen pal Clover! We are having breakfast on Saturday!

Blah!

I feel like I might be having a little sinus infection or something. Whatever it is, i don't like it! But I did run today, three miles. Nice and cool out side. 3 again tomorrow. And, yes, I am taking it easy.

Junk Day

Wow, did I just have no interest in doing it today. I ran .84 this am and called it in and then I did .1 of a hill and wrapped that up! I didn't sleep at all last night, and I had a pretty crabby day. So I'm calling today a one off and starting again tomorrow.

Yay taper week!

Not only am I tapering and so running less, it's cooler out!

I woke up pretty sore this am but did my 7 mile run. My audio book finished at mile 1, so I rocked it old school and really had a fun time listening to music. One thing I noticed is that my mind thought about work a lot. Guess those audio books really are giving me a much needed mental break. On the other hand, my pace was better with the music.

Pushing

I almost took today off, but I'm just so close. So I didn't. I know these hills are tough on me so that's part of why I'm tired. But I also woke up at 3 last night and worried about work till 4:30! Anyway, it was hard to get up.

Today was a 4 mile day and I did the Texas hill 4 times, with some flat distance after the 3rd hill. I really thought I would stop after 3 trips bit felt better after the flat run.

Feelin It!

Wow, can I feel those hills yesterday! Last night, I was so tired I didn't even floss my teeth! I just went straight to bed. And this morning - I woke up one big sore spot! I really really debated my 3 mile run today, that's how sore I was. But I did it, I just took it slow and easy. So that was fine. Then Jen and I went back to that giant hill by Qualcomm and did that at lunch. And, for the first time, I ran the entire thing with no walk breaks! So that's really fantastic. Doesn't take long to build up strength. Course, it's still easier to lose strength! Dang it! Things are really cooling down here. Thank goodness. Tonight it's 70 and it's such a relief. Hopefully fall is really here - and here to stay. I made all that chicken soup and have had zero interest in eating it because it got so hot again! So. For reasons you know, I'll be working on hills till the marathon.

Challenging!

Today was a three mile day and I decided to make those miles hills! Have you ever driven in Texas street? Well, they put a sidewalk in so I decided to run it. I did it 3 times and I didn't stop once! Then I ran a little bit more to equal the 3. Maybe .25 miles or so.

Very challenging. I really had to cajole myself to not walk!

5 Miles

Getting up today was a battle. It took much cajoling! And I really was none too interested in running, truth be told. But I figured I DID get up, so why waste it? The days have been very hot, but this morning was really nice. I saw all kinds of other runners today! I did 5 miles and it was very enjoyable. Good weather, good book to listen to. I'm on a new book! Another fantasy series. Yesterday I found myself thinking of my people and realized that I'm finally into the story. I think the transition was really hard because I liked the last one so much! I ran that giant hill at work again today. Really challenging. It has been awhile, so that is part of it. But it was also really hot and that makes it hard. My calendar reminder told me that I only have to run three miles tomorrow! Exciting - I'm on the taper! I might do more, though. I feel really worried about the long distances I've put in. I'm a little excited to get this race done. I'm super excited to go and do it but I'm also excited to have more time on my hands!

So tired!

Long day today! I got up at 4 am so I could run 10 miles this morning. Which I did. I'm really feeling a lot better. My left leg really seems to be on the mend! Not my right leg is a tiny bit sore..... Still pretty bummed about my pace, but so be it. Too late to do anything about it now. After this marathon I'm going to pull back and do 3 mile runs and really work on getting my pace back on track. Super hot again here today. But I spent all day in the office so I only know that by gossip! Day one of our filing month and something broke. Oh well. At least we start out as we intend to carry on. My roller is already laying about unused. I'll do it a bit before bed, though.

10 Miles

But it wasn't pretty.  I walked far more than I wanted to especially up all the hills in the last 4 miles.  Heel was fine while running but it's bothering me some now.  Pace was terrible!  But I wasn't rested.  I tilled the garden and mowed the lawn yesterday afternoon!  Slept very well but body was tired to begin with.  I ran around the 6 mile block and then the 4 mile block.  Gorgeous day!  Getting too warm by the end though.  74 when I got back to the house.  But just beautiful out there.  Leaves are at peak or beyond already.  Not much on my agenda this afternoon except holding the hose to water everything that Mother Nature is sorely neglecting.

Running

I did run today. I don't have deep regret. Shallow regret, maybe. But, dang, I can't just sit around! I ran 4ish miles. And my leg was sore, but I didn't have the stabbing pains. And then I made sure to keep it lathered in menthol, I kept it bound, and I used heat and ice. So hopefully I can baby it but run. It did feel a lot better today and I don't know if that was acupuncture or rest. Either way, I'm glad. Not 100%, but better. I have another acupuncture appointment tomorrow at 7:15. At the very least, it will be relaxing!

Interesting Experience

My appointment was very interesting today. In a good way. I really liked the woman who did the work. She used to have an office but now works out of her home. She is in Normal Heights, just a couple of blocks away from me! I did feel the needles going in - well, all except one. It didn't hurt, it just was a pinch. She put a "relaxation" needle in my forehead. She then put two in my right arm and two in my right leg. None on the left side. She said that the body mirrors so pain on the left is often treated on the right. She put the needles in and offered me an eye cover with lavender. She also offered music or quite, and I chose quiet. Which she seemed very happy about! Then I laid there for about 30 minutes. She came back and re-stimulated the needles and then removed them. And I did feel better when I left. But I don't now! I'm feeling very tired and sore on my right side. Not the same pain that is on my left, but just a bit tender. So we'll see. I don't know if it will work or not but I do think it did something. I just don't know what! I'm going back on Friday. As of tonight, I have no intention to run tomorrow. Which is probably smart, acupuncture or not.

Dr. Visit Email

This is just a rehash of the email I sent you - for posterity's sake! I did go to the doctor and I didn't learn much. She wants me to see a sports medicine person, but that's going to take weeks. Bit she said that it is just a pretty serious strain, not ruptured of anything. I'm doing all the right thins by od'ing on ibuprofen , Icing, wrapping with an ace bandage. She said I should try heat, too. And rest. HA. One day off is torture already!!! I did ask her about acupuncture and she was very for giving it a try. So I'm going tomorrow! New experience! I'm going to the lady Bart used when he had that terrible tendinitis in his back. Oh, she also mentioned that it could be the it band and I should do some stretching. So, no quick fix.

And ouch!

So. Yeah. I'm going to the doctor tomorrow. My left quad is just all torn up. I had this big plan to get up at 4 all week so I could do 10 mile runs before work. And I started it today but, around mile 8.5, I didn't think I was going to make it. I probably should have walked. But, hey, we ignore pain here, right? And I would continue to do so, believe you me! But there is no way I could run a marathon in this condition. Basically I want to know if I've done serious damage or if this is just a strain. Do I need to take time off? If so, how much? I think that I could still be successful even if I took a couple of weeks off. But I really don't want to. Nor do I want to ditch my insoles because my right side is feeling so good. Doctor at 11:40 am tomorrow. I will report back! I've been taking (probably) poisonous levels of ibuprofen all day, icing, using menthol patches, and wrapping with an ace bandage. Probably should have started all this on Saturday.

6 miles - accidentally!

Today I waited until 10 am and had Mom drive me to Centuria where I got on the Gandy Dancer Trail and ran the other way - toward St. Croix Falls.  Never done that before and thought it was going to be about 4.5 miles.  Absolutely gorgeous trail!  Beautiful!  We have to run that the next time you're home.  Through fields and trees.  And it turned out to be 6.02 miles to the info center in SCF!  But I did it in 64.42 minutes and that's almost a record 6 mile time for me.  And what a morning.  Sunny.  58-60 while I was running.  A little wind but not much.  Just a perfect, gorgeous run all the way around.  I will do that again!  The only downside?  You run right past Kentucky Fried Chicken near the end and I was hungry!

Triumph and Failure

Isn't it funny how running seems to be a mix of both - often at the same time? Very much like life. Made up of many many successes and fails, but all that matters is how we respond to them. So my triumph or success is that I really did have a good run today. I felt great and I am totally confident in my ability to do the marathon. My time won't be great, but it's all about having fun. So I will absolutely be able to be a success with that! My failure is that I didn't do my full miles. I stopped around 17. Why? Partially because I left late (around 8) and it was warmish, but that's actually just an excuse because it really wasn't bad and I've sure run in hotter weather! But my left quad (both, actually, but especially the left) really started cramping around mile 13. Not a dehydration muscle cramp, but just "use/overuse/what the heck are you doing!?!" muscle cramp. Don't worry. You know me. I totally have a theory. I think it is related to those new insoles. And they are really helping me, I think. I'm very glad I spent the money to try it out. But I bet they are changing my gait. Maybe I've been running in a way that relies more heavily on the hamstrings and my quads have not been as involved? What do you think? Did you get new soreness when you started using your orthotics? Next week is supposed to be 15 (I'm already starting the taper - can't believe it!), and I'll replace it with the 20. Well, that's what I'm thinking now!

8 Miles

I didn't really want to get out there this morning.  Cold (47) at 8 am and windy.  But I decided I would go over to the Gandy Dancer Trail and give it a go and if I was too cold I would just quit.  Nearly froze the first mile but the wind wasn't so bad because most of the trail is in trees.  But that also meant it was in shade.  Warmed up after the first mile though and it was beautiful after that!  Went 4 miles north (almost to Milltown) and, of course, 4 miles back.  I did walk some as usual but did ok.  Did 8.06 miles in 88 minutes so pretty good for an old man.  Feeling a little stiff now that I've been sitting down for a while but doing ok!  I think I'm back on track!

Runnin!

Well, this audio book is keeping me on the move, that's for sure. I really am so tired today and didn't feel like running but I did. I just needed to know what's happening! It was a beautiful morning. Lots of low fog. It was pretty humid! I'll take 80 and humid over 100 any day! My abs are still sore from that pike thing!

Stress Relief

I had a pretty stressful day today, so I ran twice! I did 4 this am and then I just did a quick 3 tonight. I really didn't sleep well last night. It's cooler AND I just paid my power bill! Usually it's only 25 to 30 bucks but it was 70 this time! Which makes total sense and I actually plan for in the summer, but still! So I didn't turn on my AC when I went to bed last night. Meaning I was miserable till 12:30 when I finally did turn on my AC! My hamstring still feels better. So maybe this insole thing was the magic I needed? Oh, also lifted weights today. I also blew up a ball we have at the office, and did this today: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMLhWOHF4Z4&feature=relmfu I only did maybe 4 and my abs really hurt!

Quick update

Why quick? Because I have Borderlands 2! I should be relaxing and winding down after a day of work but, instead, I'm going to play video games! It has really cooled down here. Such a relief. Low 80s. I had a good run this am even though I didn't really want to go. I was tired because I didn't sleep well last night. But I did it and enjoyed it and I was (and am!) glad I went. Then my coworker and I did that giant hill again today. She walked and I ran. We both did a lot better! I only walked twice. I think I walked 4 or 5 times the first time we did it. We'll do it again on Thursday. Off to Pandora! PS - foot and hamstring feel pretty good.

Insoles: Day 1

So I think they seem ok. My foot doesn't ache and I just now realized that I have not even contemplated my right hamstring today. I have a toe that feels achy and it's the one I have tendonitis in. It doesn't actually hurt though. I did have a good run this am. 5 miles. Good temp. Maybe 70. Only got to 80 today, so a lot cooler than it has been. I lifted weights and I ran hills. Busy day! Now I'm having some sweet peppers (tis the season and they are soooo good!!!) and then I'm having a smart dog. I'm hungry! I wanted to tell you about the "strongly held beliefs" my helper had yesterday! I believe he was probably 21 and I also am pretty sure I had some "strongly held beliefs" at that point in my life! "I have a strongly held belief that the vast majority of runners are heavy drinkers." Wow, did I totally disagree. I don't know anyone like that nor do I see that in Runners World or any forums and it doesn't hold true with the running group that I get email from every day! "I have a strongly held belief that virtually all runners are extroverts." HAR HAR! Such crap! "I have a strongly held belief that runners should not listen to music when running." Orly? "I have a strongly held belief that runners can have epiphanies that bring them to tears when running." Dear Shoe Dog Guy, what bunk....oh, wait. Yeah, I agree. He gets one shoe out of 4!

Back At It

But not outside.  I slept like a log last night.  Got up once at 4 am (NO, not to run!) and then slept until 8 am.   And when I was ready to run it was 50 degrees out there but very, very windy.  So, I decided to stay inside and did 3 miles on the TM.  Pace was 10:14 so pretty good.  Thought I would die though!!  Lungs aren't 100% yet from the cold but I didn't start coughing so I kept running.  Then did my 50 pushups and 50 situps.  I haven't done any of this since last Wednesday so felt good to get back on track.

Finally! Long Run Update!

Sorry I didn't post yesterday - I was a little bit brain dead! Actually, I felt really good. Just really worn. Do you ever have a headache and a total inability to think after a long run? Yesterday I did not! And I'm really proud of myself because I think it was all about my hydration and fuel. Well....and getting up at 4. I did get up at 4, and I hated it! I had that shaky feeling of being ripped from a deep sleep. Probably because I was! But I got right up - no snoozing. And had coffee, water, and oatmeal. Then I got on the road - only 5 minutes after I had hoped to leave the house. And then I ran. I did Kensington. Which is mind numbing at that distance (18). But I didn't want to go downtown that early because of all the homeless people. And I didn't want to go to Lake Miramar or Murray. Partially because I don't want to be that alone and isolated that early (although I always have my pepper spray!). But also because those lakes would have been baking by the time I was done! So I just did the elongated loop. A lot. And I did it! Next Saturday I do 20, then I start winding down. A 15 is I think the following weekend, then a 7. I've been drinking coconut water and eating honey and that really seemed to work for me yesterday. I'm very excited to try my insoles tomorrow!

Sleep like gangbusters!

You know, I actually don't even know what gangbusters means! Hm. Dictionary.com tells me it means "very successful" - so, yep. Like that. I didn't sleep great last night, although I also didn't dream. But I didn't eat blue cheese last night, either! I went to sleep around 11 last night, but I was wide awake by 5. So I got up and I'm glad I did because my book was so good that I ran an extra 2.5 miles so I could find out what was happening! Good run today. Nice out, although still humid. And I lifted weights when I got home. No hills today because, well, everything broke. So, I've noticed something. I am feeling happier. And the only thing I've changed is that I am listening to this book when I run. Here is my theory: I was becoming immune to my music and not really listening. Rather, I was ruminating about work. I used to not think about work when I ran, but I had lost that ability. I just worried about it. And I was losing my joy of running and I've been so life crabby and down. And now I am starting my day with an hour or two of just having fun. And since I've started doing that, I feel happier. So the book absorbs my attention and leaves me unable to worry about work. Or anything, for that matter. Well, other than, "Can I get another mile in to find out what's up?!"

Busy Day!

Whew, I'll sleep tonight! Oh, first, I totally dreamed again last night! And I even kind of remember it. Crazy. Now, I've been eating blue cheese. So maybe it's that. I did my 5 mile run this morning. I'm excited for tomorrow, another 5 mile. It's been really humid here. So even though it's only, say, 73 at 6:30 or 7, it's still a bit icky due to the humidity. Right now it is supposed to be 96 on Saturday, which is super bumming me out! I ran hills at lunch. I'll do that again tomorrow. Really need to get serious on that point. Then Brian and I had dinner tonight. We went to Tao, which is on Adams Avenue. Really good. I had mango mock chicken with wild/brown rice. And now I'm tired! Oh! I also went to the library today. I didn't find "my" book on cd but I did find The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and Dangerous Women. The second one is a collection of short stories about, well, dangerous women! I've been looking on all kinds of sites for my book (at a cheaper price) but no dice so far. I know I'll end up buying it but now I feel like I'm on a mission! Jessica got the first book in the series today and she totally loves it!

6 miles

Today my run was six miles. Slow. Again. I must come to grips but I cannot! Anyway, I did it. Very very humid today. Cool in the am, but humid. I ran some hills at lunch. Which was at 4;17! But I still took a break, and I'm really trying to get in the habit of that. What else. My book was great again today. I'm getting ready (Well, I have several hours left I think) to get the last book. But it is so expensive! I will have to check with my library. I can find the abridged version for 10 bucks but unabridged is 20 and, you will be shocked to hear, I want unabridged! In more shocking news, we're kind of peaking around 80 degrees this week but, don't worry. Saturday will be 90. Sigh!

Lame Sleep In!

Well, I decided today was my day off and I was going to sleep in. But did I? NO! I woke up at 5 and then got up at 6. Oh well. I did take the opportunity to start reading this new book I have called The Power of Habit: Why we do what we do in life and business. And I'm glad I did because I am only a little of the way in and it is absolutely fascinating. I recommend it, if you like reading those kinds of books. Takes a lot of information from studies done over the years and applies the information to habits, what they are, how they're created, and how they can be changed. You and I would probably be great examples for them to study because we've both made incredible changes in our lives! Also talks about the fact that habits do not have to be good. Don't I know it! As you know, I did some running yesterday. 11 or 12, don't remember. It just killed me to turn off my book though! Such a crucial point. But that's the deal I made. I get to listen when I run. I was insanely sore last night. I took a lot of ibuprofen. Today I "slept in". Well, I took it easy anyway! But last week I was talking to my coworker and she was telling me that her doctor basically gave her the smack down and told her she needed to get her exercise on. And she does. Then we talked about hills and that I'm worried about going to SF without more under my belt. And she told me about a giant hill by us - right by Qualcomm. And so we decided to do that today. And we did! Even though she forgot her gear and had to go home and get it. Anyway, I ran the hill and she walked it. And it is no joke. My lungs were burning and I had to walk a couple of times! So, naturally, I can't wait to do it again! I did lift some weights when I got home. So I guess I only took it kinda easy! Back to running tomorrow.

Good Morning

And it was a good morning, too.  6.12 miles with no stopping and no walking!  Legs felt like rubber coming back down the driveway but I did it.  Also up to 50 push ups and sit ups again so did those, too.  Will get back to 60 of those eventually.  Gorgeous morning again.  58 when I left the house and just perfect for running.  I wish this weather could last!

Good and Bad

The good news is that I did 14 miles really strong and I did run and walk 18 miles. The bad news is I walked! I'm not counting it. I got up morbidly early this morning and checked weather.com. It looked like our high was going to be about 85 (around 1 pm) and that Lake Murray was going to be the same as my local weather - for once! Since I figured I'd be done around 11 or 12, I decided to go to Lake Murray because it was only going to be a couple of degrees hotter. Turns out, weather.com was soooo very wrong! When I finally got back to my car, I saw that it was 91 degrees out there! Let me tell you, I felt much less bad about my 14 miles! Way too hot. So I think it was probably 88 when I started to walk. Do you think tomorrow is too soon to try again? I feel pretty good. I was thinking that I could get up early again and keep it local because it was at least 10 degrees cooler here - as usual. When will I learn to stop trusting weather.com?!? Frustrating! Anyway, I may call a redo tomorrow. We'll see how I feel in the am. But at least I got 14 really good miles in.

Osceola 5K

Hey, I uploaded a photo!  First time I've tried that.  Anyway, our run was GREAT this morning!!  I got 2nd place in the men over 60 age group!  And all 3 of us won door prizes!  Angie and I got $10 iTunes gift cards and Mom won a sweat towel!  She has all the luck in the family!!  Anyway, a great morning and I did very well.  Average pace was 9.48 so I was very, very pleased with that!  I couldn't hardly believe it actually.  Heel felt just fine and never bothered me once.  On to the Whistlestop Half in Ashland on 10/13!!

4 Miles

Today was a four mile run. Went fine. I didn't do anything else today because I don't want to be sore for my running times tomorrow. 20 miles - little nervous. I'm getting up early (5 or 6) so I can try and beat the heat. Locally it's supposed to be 82, 86 at Lake Murray. I'll probably go over there then.

I'm Back!

I'm still not 100% but I'm plenty good! I had a really great night of sleep last night (once I finally fell asleep!) and woke up really rested this am. I had a 5 mile run. Really nice out. And I listened to my book. I can't wait to hit the street again tomorrow because I'm getting close to the end of book 1. I need to find book 2! I did weights and lunges when I came home. And I had a healthy eating day. So a good day all around. I'm pretty nervous for my long run on Saturday. I'm planning on getting up at 5 to beat the heat. Although I think this heat wave is supposed to be done now. I hope anyway!

Good Morning

Did the 3 again today.  A little cool.  Only 51 when I left the house so I was in long sleeves and pants.  Nice morning out there though.  Heel was ok.  Felt it now and then but not serious.  Taking tomorrow off because we're running that 5K in Osceola on Saturday morning.  Have a good day!

Bike ride today

I hate to have to say this out loud but my heel was bothering me a little when I got up.  bothered me some yesterday afternoon and evening, too.  So I decided this was a good day for cross training.  Rode my bike 5 miles as hard as I could.  And, you know, that is exercise, too!  Wow.  I can feel it big time.  Different set of muscles or at least a different pull on them.  Very, very foggy here this morning so I didn't take the iPod so I would be sure to hear cars.  Yes, there were 3!

6 miles

It wasn't very pretty because it was too warm.  74 when I left the house and 82 when I got back and not a breath of a breeze anywhere but I ran around the 6 mile block today.  I walked quite a lot in miles 5 and 6 because of the heat but my overall time was still a pace of 11.21 so I was happy with that.  Shirt and shorts soaking wet!  Good feeling!  Heel and groin were fine.  No problem at all.  So thankful for that.

Zoot!

Pretty sure that's French for damn! Let's pretend it is! I did a 5 mile run today and I was greatly excited about it because I wanted to see what was happening in my book! And I got about a third of a mile in when my book said, "This audiobook has been broken into two parts for easier download. You have reached the end of part 1." Arrrrrrgggggggggggg!!!! I knew it was broken in two parts! I have both parts! I just didn't know that I was that close to the end of the first part! I was really really torn. I had a very strong compulsion to come home and get it. But I knew it would take 10 minutes to fire up my computer and add it to my iPod and I didn't have the time. So I just ran the old fashioned way. With music! But I did it and it was good. But soooo slow. My pace isn't getting any better and it's super bumming me out. I did lunges and abs when I got home. And I did hills at lunch, which will help with my pace. It was pretty warm again today, and I only did 3. But I went to a different hill that is longer than my usual one. 4 miles on the calendar for tomorrow.

Good Run

A little warm out there this morning.  Already 70 when I left the house and 74 when I got home. Humid, too.  Going to be 96 or so this afternoon so it's off to a good start.  I ran the 5K route and it was beautiful this morning.

Back at it!

I ran today! And I was very excited and anxious to do so because I wanted to listen to my book! And I can't wait to run tomorrow to see what is going to happen. This has turned out to be a really good idea. It's fun. Today I ran 4 miles and then I did weights with the (less) stinky weights when I got back. At lunch I only ran two hills. It was just so darn hot!! Five miles tomorrow. Hopefully I'll have a better show with hills, too.

Day Off

I wonder why I don't sleep well one or two nights a week.  The rest of the week is fine but always one or two nights are bad.  And that was last night so no running today.  Didn't get up until 7:00.  I don't like it.

Good Morning

I ran the Fitnatics 5K route this morning and will do that each day now until Saturday when I'll go around the block again.  60 this morning, cloudy so no sun beating down, very light breeze.  Pretty nice running weather.

When I got on to 180th here at our mailbox there was a guy running up ahead of me.  I don't know who he is but he was really moving!  He kept getting farther and farther away and then when he turned east on 150th Ave. I could see that he was going full steam.  Wonder who it was.

Off to work!

Did it Again

I went around the 4 mile block again this morning on just a perfect, gorgeous morning.  69 when I left the house but not nearly as humid as it was on Saturday.  No breeze though and I could have used a little so maybe it wasn't absolutely perfect.  But pretty close.  Again I ran the whole time without stopping or walking.  My time isn't so hot right now but I'm working on distance, not time, so I don't really care about that right now.  Pace was about 10.30 per mile.  That'll get better.  So, "on the road again!"  Hey, I think I'll write a song about that!

Longest Run Since May 5th

It's not so much by your current standards but I did 4.06 miles this morning all the way around the 4 mile block here!  And I ran the entire way.  No stopping or walking.  Coming up this last hill on 180th here nearly killed me but I did it.  And it was warm (70) and very humid.  I was sweat from head to toe.  But I got it done!!  Feeling very good about it at the moment.

I did it!

I was in doubt around mile 12, but I did it! All 16. My last couple of miles were slllloooooow. But I still did it! I tried something new, too. I got an audio book (Poison Study) to listen too. I think that made my pace slower probably, but it kept me mentally occupied. I'm glad I did it. I got up at 4:30 and really didn't sleep last night because I was thinking about how I had to get up. You know how that goes! Dad, you know your halo headband? Do you feel like it makes you sweat weird? I ask because whenever I wear mine, I just am a sweaty mess. And when I don't, it just evaporates off me. Today my shorts were soaked. SOAKED. Like I had been in a lake or something. My shirt too, I suppose. Anyway, I'm wondering if that happens to you, too. Off to Vegas tomorrow! I'll probably bring some gear so I can pretend I'll lift weights!

4 miles

4 miles kinda felt like a vacation! Just because I've been doing longer runs, when my calendar blinked 4 miles at me, I was pretty excited! Things are cooling off here a bit. And I'm glad because tomorrow is that long run. Wish me luck. It's been a loooong time since I've done that kind of distance. After my run I lifted weights. Then.....wait for it...everything broke at work.

7 miles

Again, slow, but I did em. I'm going to stop worrying about pace. It's finally cooling down here, which is such a total relief. How about this marathon: http://wisconsinmarathon.com/ Cheese! Just 4 miles tomorrow. Like a vacation! I'm toying with the idea of getting up at 4 am on Thursday and running before I go to work.

What a day!

I tell you. Everything is broken. So frustrating. But I did run this morning! I had 5 miles on the schedule, and that's what I did. I didn't get to run hills and I really need to lift weights but I'm just too darn worn out to do that tonight!

Sorta did it

Well, I did something. I wanted to try and redo my 14 mile run from last week (recap: only did 12 of the 14 last week), but it was just too hot! I did get 6 in, and that was what was actually on my schedule. So that's something. I'm going to try and do my next long run on Thursday night - Bart has some time off and we are going to head to Vegas and there is no way I'm running in the Vegas heat! That's for sure! It's actually a good idea, I think, because it should be cooler at that time of day. I hope! Maybe we're in for a cool down, anyway. Hope so!

Hot!

Work got in the way of my personal life this morning. It was just absolute chaos. I started working early and didn't get to run till 10 I think and it was HOT. 91 degrees hot. If I had realized this, I wouldn't have gone. But my weather app told me it was 80. So. I ran 3 miles not 5! Hopefully I can wake up early tomorrow and get my run done. I wanted to try and redo my 14 mile run but there's no way if it is that hot!

Bah

I need to get my head right! I was so frustrated with my time today. Very slow. But I'm not running hills or doing other speed work, so that makes sense. Gotta get it mentally together! I did 5 miles today. Cool but humid. My weather tool says it's going to be 73 tomorrow but the radio said 90. We shall see! I'll try to run early, either way. I did run hills today. Weights tomorrow. They are still stinky!

4 Miles

I had a short - and slow! - run today. I'm really worried about my pace. It's not good. Anyway, my schedule said 4 miles, so I ran 4 miles. It was not hot but very humid! I used my weights this morning! Lesson learned: a mini-ironing board is not a sub for a weight bench. Note to self: buy new ironing board....... And I did run hills today. It didn't happen until 4 pm, but it did happen. And that's what counts.

Hot!

I tell ya, we're having a heat wave! At least for typically mild and moderate San Diego! I had a hot run today but I did my prescribed 7 miles. Too hot to worry about pace much. I do have exciting news! I order, and have received, a set of weights! http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VCDXNS/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00 Forty bucks and it was prime eligible, so no shipping! I'm going to use them tomorrow. I looked into it because it's just so tough for me to get to the gym. I have to go in the morning (because it's way too busy at night) but if I go in the morning I can't run. So much drama! So many problems! I have a very hard life! I was surprised to see some weight sets run hundreds of dollars! I'll report back on these. I will tell you, they are very stinky. I have them airing out tonight.

Good Morning from Iowa

I went out for a run again this morning but only got 1.75 done because it started to rain.  Yes, rain!  They have been so dry here all summer that it's just sad to see the lawns and the crops.  Terrible.  So they need the rain but it did cut my run a little short.  Went ok though.  The only bad thing about running here, however, is that everything is concrete.  Sidewalks and streets and roads.  Concrete is hard on me.  And they aren't anywhere near a trail of any kind that I know of yet.  In DePere they were 1/2 mile from the River Walk which was a wonderful running trail.  Haven't found anything like that here yet.

Very Unusual Run

Unusual because it is Sunday morning and I never run on Sundays - except for the SD Half Marathon!  But I was up early enough and decided to do a 2 miler from the Waelchli house.  Went very well actually.  Best run I've had this week.  Not sure why but I'll take it.

BAH!

I'm trying not to consider today a failure. If I look at it in the context that I didn't do what I was supposed to do, yes, failure. But I have to remember that I have had really erratic running since January (due to work) and I pulled back my running in July to 3 miles per session. I think jumped straight into week 8 of marathon training. So, considering all that, it makes sense that I'm struggling as I add distance. I went to bet really early last night (well, for a Friday! 10:30 I think) and I slept really well. I was up and running by 8 am. And, when I ran, I never got to the point where I was just sweating salt. You know what I mean? When you're just all crusty? So I think I did a really good job with hydration today. First 6 miles were an absolute piece of cake. Soooo easy. Then I started getting a little worn by 9. And I had a packet of GU (that style of stuff, but not GU brand - it was Cliff brand). And I ate it and then I ran for about a mile so freaking sick I can't even tell you. I really thought I was going to throw up and it was a real struggle to keep going. I ate that and was ready to just be done. And, after that, it was really just kinda over. Even after I ran through the nausea, I just never really bounced back. I even walked! For about a quarter of a mile when I was at 11.27. Walked then ran again then said to myself, "I just can't." So I don't know if it was too much mileage too fast, the heat that came up as the morning wore on, or that snack. I strongly suspect it was a mix of the three!

I can't think of a title....

....cause I'm tired. http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/08/08/looking-for-fitness-in-a-glass-of-juice/ Interesting article. And, yes, my smoothie drinking persists. I got about 5 hours of sleep last night, so I am sleeping. Now I need to work on sleeping more. I ran 4 miles this am. Big 14 mile run tomorrow. I need to do it early because I thought it was hot even this am when I ran. So I am going to bed soon. I've decided I'm going to take one day off a week for real. No cross-training. Just a day of rest.

Quick Update

All week I've not been sleeping and now I'm worn out! I need to tuck myself in asap! I did sleep last night, once I finally managed to fall asleep. And I was so exhausted when I woke up this am. I didn't run. But I did go to the gym at lunch today. So that's somehting anyway. I feel bad about going off plan. But I'll make sure to run as I'm scheduled tomorrow.

Hot!

I had another night of not sleeping. I don't know what is happening, to be honest. But such is life. Insomnia. Anyway, my alarm went off and I snoozed twice (!!) and I did get up then but I just had no umph to run. And I left my iPod at work! So I figured I was not to run. So I didn't. But I did run this afternoon (I left work at 4 because I went to work early....due to not running!). And, man, it was WAY too hot. No more of that. I can't imagine there is much value in that. Anyway, I did my prescribed 6 miles. Hopefully I'll sleep tonight.

Busy day...again!

Well, another busy day. I learned a valuable lesson yesterday and that was do not go to the gym after 3:30 on a week day. I walked in and saw it was just plum full of meat heads doing the things I wanted to do. So I left. Meaning I had to find a way to fit in my run, weights, and hills today. But, good news: success! I was surprised that I was out of bed with my alarm this am. Because I really didn't sleep. But I was so I took advantage of it. I did my prescribed 4 mile run. I tried to go fast, but I was out of gas from the start. So I just did my best. And it wasn't bad. Then I got right in my car and went straight to the gym! I lifted weights for about 20 minutes. Did all the things I wanted. Then I got to work on time! CRAZY!! Then I ran hills at lunch. Tonight I'm having my last half of a pork chop with peach salsa. So delicious.

Hard Won Run

Why? Dad, why do I always run during the hottest part of the day? It's like I purposefully wait and thing, "Well, now must be a good time - it's totally burning hot!" Already on Thursday I was planning on running when I got home today. Well, thinking I would. I didn't know how tired I would be but I had a 12 mile run on my schedule and I didn't really want to do it tomorrow. I'm not working tomorrow and I have some house stuff I want to accomplish. So, anyway, I did it today. And I remembered sunscreen! Course, I'm already desert burned! Not on my face, though. I think I hit the road around 1:15. See? Hottest part of the day. But I did it. The first 6 miles were pretty easy. Then I was just HOT. Now I'm home and I'll have an early night tonight. I've had a headache all afternoon and I imagine it is dehydration. Don't worry, I'm working on the re-hydration! I sure can tell I took a month off from distance. Well, three weeks. But I'm glad I did. I needed a grip of 3 mile days. Tomorrow I might pop into the gym. Or I might not!

Busy Day!

Today I was telling Bart that I'm very serious about my training for this marathon. And, looking back on my day and week, I can see I mean it! I did a good job with my training. Today I totally overslept! I didn't even hear my alarm go off. So unusual. But I haven't been sleeping well and last night - bam! - I slept like I was going for the gold in the Olympic Sleeping Competition. Anyway, my schedule for today was 4 miles and I did that. Sleeping in be damned! And I still made it to work on time - and clean! I ran hills at lunch today. And on my way home, I stopped at the gym for maybe 20 minutes just to lift weights. In and out. Now I will have some days off! I may or may not run tomorrow. I'm not setting my alarm so it will depend on how late I sleep. We're hitting the road around 10 am.

5'r

Didn't really sleep again last night. Even though I tucked myself in by 8! But I did get up this am and do my 5, per my instructions! And it was really good. It was one of those mornings where I didn't really feel like it but made myself and then I was glad I did it. My time was a lot better today than yesterday. Over 30 seconds per mile better. Still not under 10 but I'm getting there. We're heading to the desert Friday, so I don't plan on running Saturday or Sunday. It will be just waaaay too hot. Probably dangerous hot! Maybe I'll run in the pool like you did! Hopefully only Bart will see me because I know you felt conspicuous! So I bet I will, too!

And goodbye July!

Another filing month down. Yay! I only did half of my menu today and that was the 5 mile run this morning. I was going to do hills at lunch but I had a stomach ache. Yes! Me! Crazy. So I took it easy. I did do some ab stuff after my run this am, though. Plank things.

"Day Off"

Yep, in quotes. Why? Because I did not sleep at all last night! Tossed and turned like mad. And I was up at 5:30 today! So I figured I could go to work super early (oh, no way!) or go to the gym. So I went to the gym. I only did 10 minutes of cardio. 5 walking on the treadmill at 15% and 5 on TSWTH. Then I did weights. Then I went home. I did run hills today. Nice day! We've had a couple hot days, but nothing too terrible. My running menu for tomorrow tells me I'll be having 5 miles with a side of hills. Delicious!

And it begins

It's time for training to start in earnest. I was looking at the Grandma's plan the other day and realized that I should already be completing week 6! Yikes! So I am working on a schedule and I ran today based on the week 6 long run. Today I ran 9 miles. Which was....hard. Because all month I've only been running 3 miles! So that was a pretty major increase in miles. And it was slow, but I did it. And I questioned my ability, not gonna lie! I also slept in today. I've not been sleeping well - maybe 5 to 6 hours a night. And this has been all month (yep, it's a filing month). But last night I slept a full 8 hours. OK, well at least 7.5! But I woke up just before 9. And then I had The Coffee Incident. I totally forgot to put my pot under the drip last night. And....well, mess. Anyway, it was 11 before I hit the road and pretty warm. But I had some honey and some kefir before I left and I brought my beverage pak so I felt as prepared as I could be! And, like I said, success. I am really going to try and follow a training program for once. I'm going to use the Grandma's novice program. So week 7 starts tomorrow! With a sweet day off. Ha!

Good Morning

Great morning!  I slept and I slept well and I slept late - 7:30!  and it all felt great.  And it's a gorgeous morning here.  Just perfect!  So, I decided to go for broke and run 2 miles.  Yes, run.  And I did.  But, oh my, am I ever out of shape!!!  I had all I could do to keep myself going but I did.  Left Achilles tendon is a little sore now but so be it.  Now, we're going to the Polk County Fair for a couple hours so more walking.  Then home to mow the lawn so more work.  I have to get myself back in shape.  And I will.

Great run (!) and more visiting!

Well, I had a great run this morning. My time was 9:53! I was soooo thrilled! I've been clocking in a lot of 11 minute miles and, more recently, 10:30~ minute miles. My last "good" pace was the Fitnatics 5K which I think was 9:40ish. And that was an aberration to a degree because I guess I just don't really push myself when I'm alone. So what's the difference? I honestly think it's Runner's World. I really haven't been keeping up on my reading and I have been going through my old, unread issues and I've found myself feeling so less "blah" about it and getting excited. So I think it's mental. I think. Who knows! But that reminds me, did you read the excerpt from 14 Minutes in the May issue? I'd like to read that book. Sounds like it is really good. So I did 3 miles this am. And I did hills at lunch. AGAIN! Two days in a row! And I had two people talk to me today. There's a new homeless guy I've seen a couple of times on the Kensington/Normal Heights bridge. And the other AM I was just thinking of what a hard life that has to be. Even out here where it really never gets too cold. Anyway, this morning I saw him on my way out and then he was still there on my way back in. And when I passed him he waved and I said, "Morning!" and then he clapped a little bit and then gave me thumbs up and said, "Morning! You're doing such a good job!" And that really made my day. More than a faster pace. And it makes me think about all the curves and turns in life that bring us to where we are. Who knows. He could have been a runner in high school. He could have received a track scholarship or had Olympic dreams. Or he could have just been a normal kid who figured he'd have a house and family and never dreamed he be a homeless guy in San Diego cheering on some girl running across a bridge. The second was when I was running hills. There is this older Asian lady I see often. She always walks with this little umbrella! And today when I ran by her we said hi and she said, "I haven't seen you in soooo long!" Read with a heavy accent! And I said, "I know!" Much typing. My fingers are nubs now!

It's back!

Man, my right hamstring is tight again today. It's been so great so that makes it extra irritating! I could feel it last night. I didn't take any ibuprofen today, so I'll do that now. And I did do some stretching. I was feeling a little blah today (I think I've said before, July is catching up!!) so I went to the gym but took it pretty easy. I did the treadmill for.....15 minutes? At the full 15% incline. But I just walked. And then I lifted weights. I also ran hills at lunch! Yes, you heard me! I did! It was beautiful out! So yet another person talked to me today, this time at the gym. That's three people in three days! Anyway, he was this giant meat-head guy. So tall (over 6 feet, I'm sure) with just gigantic muscles. And I was thinking to myself, "He has to be using roids. Must." He was there with a workout partner. So I go over to this leg press machine. This kind: Sorry, that image is giant. Anyway, giant man came over to a squat machine by me and then about 10 minutes later his workout pal came over. And they were talking and this guy had a crazy deep voice. He then turns to me and kneels down and says, "Hey, want me to stand on that? I'll add some weight for you!" And I said, "NO THANKS!" And then we both laughed. And he said, "Well, it's supposed to be hard!" Anyway, funny, weird, and odd!

Another Visit!

I had someone else talk to me today! Weird, two days in a row! I was just leaving my place and a guy with a tiny dog waved to me - so excitedly! And then he said, "You're that girl I see every day!" And then we visited a bit about running and my route and he said, "I see you leave and then I see you come back and I think - I've only walked two blocks!" And I said, "Maybe someday you'll decided to come out and run with me!" And then he chuckled, so I chuckled, and we parted ways. I'm sooo sore today! I think it's from the lunges yesterday. But it could also be that I'm picking up my pace a bit. Anyway, today I only ran. No pushups or abs or lunges. But I am doing ibuprofen. That's something! I weighed myself today for the first time in a long time and things are good on that front. I've been afraid - I blame the heat and inevitable ice cream!

Happy Monday!

And it is a happy Monday, because I know that you are feeling better! Or were. Are you still on the upswing? I had a good run this morning. 3 miles. I felt like I was going super fast! But, alas, it turns out I was only going a little less slow. But I had a good time and that's what counts. I also did lunges, ab stuff, and situps. Today when I did lunges outside a lady stopped to talk to me about them. She said she would try to remember to do them!

Speed Work

As you know, my slowness is making me nuts. Well, as you probably know. Or can tell. Or have come to understand. Geesh. Get on with it, Julie! Anyway, today I did 3 miles but did bursts of speed throughout the run. Probably 10 times for 30 to 60 seconds. Just as fast as I could. It was good but challenging. I really am feeling out of shape. I did some pushups and ab work upon my return. Now I'm having oatmeal featuring white peaches and soon I'll be having more coffee. Then? Video games! I honestly haven't played for months. I won't play long, maybe an hour. I am meeting a friend for coffee and I have a million unfinished home projects. You should see my bedroom! You'd think a 16 year old lives in there, not a 39 year old!

Slow Run

July is catching up with me. I was worn out from before I rolled out of bed! I did run, even though I wasn't feeling it! But I'm glad I did it. It was a beautiful day. So good to be out and about, that's for sure. I had a delicious massage tonight and I bet I'll sleep like...well, I don't know. The saying is 'like a baby' but I never understand that as they pee all over themselves and that's not something to which I particularly aspire. But I bet I'll sleep well.

No Report

Well, I'm making a report about the fact that I have nothing to report! Except for the fact That I have the best boyfriend ever! I didn't run this am due to work. So I left the office early with the intention of running and then working from home the rest of the day. But that was not to be because I got a flat tire on my way home! On the 15!!! Yes, that totally busy road. Very scary! I called Bart to tell him that I was on the 15 and calling the mechanic to (hopefully) come fetch me and he said, "No! I will come and put on your spare!" And he totally did! HERO! Anyway, now I have new tires. Yes, plural. Cause I needed them - and I have known I needed them. So I'm feeling pretty irresponsible here tonight, to tell you the truth.

Runnin

It's me! Again! I really had some slack days here, so I'm happy to be able to present two posts in a row! Today I just ran again. 3 miles. All was fine. I tell you, my hamstring is still better. Such a relief because it really was causing me troubles. But way better and my foot is better. Which makes me happy but doesn't surprise me because I didn't think it was plantars as much as an issue tied to the hamstring. Because whenever that muscle was tight, my foot ached more. Anyway, good news on that front. So happy to report it! The festival of smoothies continues! Today I had chard, spinach, raw red beet (peeled, of course. I'm not an animal!), and frozen strawberries. It was delicious. And I really mean that! Did 5 pushups today. OUCH. I really need to get back on those. I have serious upper body weakness.

I'm back!

Whew, I've had some downtime, huh? Well, I've been pretty busy and I did a lot of walking and work this weekend. So I won't feel too terrible about it. I did run today. I actually had a work from home day. And that's all I did - work! I was hoping to sneak in a pedicure, but no luck. But I did get a good run in. 3 miles. So that's that. More tomorrow! Sure am anxious for your appointment tomorrow. I know you won't get an answer tomorrow, but at least it's movement.

Better time

Well, a much better showing today. So I don't know why yesterday was so darn slow. But today was a good run! And I'm kind of surprised because I worked till 3 am! But I slept till 7 am. More tomorrow........I think!

Speedwork WHAT?

After my speedwork yesterday, I figured I'd be flying this morning! Like qualifying for Boston! But, alas, no! I actually was slower than I've been for a long time! Well, a couple weeks anyway. I need to get a plan together for October. I can't believe how quickly that is approaching. I'm getting emails about the SD half. I'm going to sign up again. My leg feels a lot better today. I've had so much chronic pain I've been ignoring. But yesterday I decided to put some shoe inserts into my running shoes. And today my leg doesn't hurt. So....we'll see if that continues.

Catching up

I knew what a fartlec was!!  You should have asked me.  I googled that a long time ago because I had no clue when I first saw the word used.  I didn't ask you because I didn't want to appear uninformed!

You are doing so well!  Keep up the good work and you'll be ready for that marathon in the fall for sure.

I have been running 2 miles every other morning or so.  Neither the heel or the groin is 100% and I can feel both of them but I've just kept going.  Not too bad while I'm running but I do get very stiff and sore after I sit around for a while.  I ran on Monday and Tuesday mornings even though it was too hot to do so by 8:30 am when I was out there.  So I don't know what to do.  I'm not running now on the trip home and probably won't again until Monday.  I don't suppose I'll run on Saturday because i will need to get to the office and see what's been going on and to get ready for Sunday.  So a few more days rest.  I'm starting to wonder if I'll ever get my old form back.  When I'm running I'm doing about 10.5 minute miles so that's good.  And Mom says it doesn't look like I'm limping or favoring one side or the other so that's good, too.  But at the moment I can't imagine getting around the 4 mile block at home. 


I got the emails about the San Diego half next March.  I would love to do that again but will have to see how things go.  Two years ago I was off all summer because of that plantar faciitis and now this summer is going to be lost, too.  Maybe I'm just an every other year kind of guy!

I'm thinking now that I will take a couple of PT sessions on that left heel and see how it feels and what I can learn.  Haven't decided about getting new orthotics yet although....I did run 2 times on the farm without them in and while that seemed to go ok I felt better when I put them back in the shoes.

Enough for tonight.

Did it!

So, yesterday I did not do speed work. I just did a straight 3 mile run. But today I did and it was really hard! I only ended up going a little over 1 mile and I was really worn out! I just went to the end of the block and started slow running up and down the block twice. Then I ran up as fast as I could and, on the return, I ran slow for recovery. And I did that until I just didn't have gas anymore to go fast! And then I did some ab stuff. Then I ate ice cream at work.

Well, thank you RW!

How many times have I wondered what, exactly, is a fartlec? Many times! Now, I've not wondered quite hard enough to actually look it up, but I have wondered. And now I know! It is just run hard, recover, run hard, recover. I thought it was much more mysterious. Mostly because it would be mentioned but never explained! So, thank you RW for finally explaining! I'm going to do them tomorrow. I've been slacking a bit. I think I've just been stressed and discombobulated. But I did run today and I did 3 miles. My pace is improving, which is such a relief. It was pretty darn hot by the time I got out there. I did lunges today, too. Fartlec day is tomorrow!

Doing stuff and catching up!

Hi! I'm here! I guess I've been a slacker with posting. Geesh! Well, I'm not sure what I have to report. I did not run Friday because I figured my mechanic would call the second I left. And so I did not leave thereby guaranteeing he never called at all! And I did run on Saturday, as well. I've been doing three mile runs and my pace is improving. Once I'm back to 10 minute miles, I'll start adding distance. Today I ran 3 miles and I did lunges for a bit. I can really feel those! I also did some abs work (plank things). And I ran hills today! We were busy and I didn't think I would get out but I made it a priority and it happened. Yay! PS - my smoothies continue to be awesome. Yesterday I washed and chopped chard, kale, and spinach so I could easily use them during this week. I hope they last!