Almost time!

I'm so excited to see you! It's getting so close! I had a very quick run today. I worked from 6-1 and then for another couple of hours at 5. And I ran in between. Only 3 miles though because cold fat raindrops started pelting me! And it was really cold. My hands were red and took about 30 minutes before they wanted to work again after I got home. More rain tomorrow so we shall see what I can get accomplished. Other than eating cookies! That's a known!

Weather!

Wow, did we have actual weather today! So much fun! It rained so hard it woke me up. I mean just pouring. Not our usual drizzle that we get. Actual for real rain. Clearly I did not run this morning. But I worked early (why not? I was up!). And then I came home around 4 pm and I did run. Not far, a little over 3 miles. I didn't have much time before it got dark. But it was such a beautiful run because I could see all the Christmas lights. I really enjoyed it. Especially while listening to all the mayhem in my book! Good contrast! On the one had I continue to feel better. Way more energetic. On the other hand, this headache persists.

Audio Book

My book is getting so good I just cannot stand it. This is the second I've listened to by this guy and I love it. I ended up working this morning, so I left work early and ran. Almost 5 miles but it was too dark to get right to 5. I could have done, but I really don't like running when I cannot see. So almost 5 it was! I'm feeling substantially better, although I didn't sleep well last night. I had a difficult time falling asleep, even though I was insanely exhausted. I had some things on my mind and I think that was the problem. I got them taken care of first thing this morning, so that hopefully won't be a problem tonight. Tonight I'm going to watch an episode of Midsomer Murders, which I absolutely love. I love the lead detective. Even more now that I've gotten to know him. Eating pretty healthy but I sure wish I didn't have cookies around here. I have good control all day long but not at night! Oh well.

I ran!

My day was all shades of messed up, but I did run today. How was it messed up? Well, I woke up with a headache. Again. At 3 am. Yes. And then, at 3:30, I decided that if I was going to be awake I might as well be awake with coffee. I figured I would run in the am but I just didn't have it in me and it was so cold! So I went to work early and then left kind of early and ran. I did about 4 miles. I did go to the doctor today and she really just thinks it is tension. Stress. Yes, my job is making me sick.

Good morning

I'm a little stiff and sore this morning but all that shoveling the last two days!  Different muscles than the ones used for running, sit ups and push ups I guess.  Not too bad but I can feel it.  I did my run anyway plus the other stuff.

Nike+ worked fine today but another thing about it is that it has a very hard time scyning with the website.  It tries every day and about once a week it actually connects and then it does synch all the runs that need it but why doesn't it just synch every day?  Those gremlins!

+6 here this morning!

Whoops!

I was just about to climb into bed when I realized I had not posted! So here I am! I ran both yesterday and today. As you know, I usually take Sunday off from running but I've been eating a heck of a lot of cookies! So I figured I'd get a few miles in. 5 on Saturday and 3 today. Hm. Maybe just 2.5 today. My scale has been replaced (it no longer worked post ceiling waterfall), so I suppose I have to lay off the cookies now. Dang it!

Getting Back to Business!

Short post, I need to go to bed! Oh, Imagine Dragons just came on the radio. LOVE! I had a good run today - 5 miles. I'm up and down with how I feel. But I felt a lot better post run. Maybe I had to get my blood moving. I also lifted some weights. I also mixed up my pepperkakar dough and ate some! Whoops. It slipped into my mouth on accident.

And again!

Yep, I ran again! 3 miles again. I'm very slowly feeling better. Woke up with a bit of a noggin ache and it kind of came and went throughout the day. Big filing day today. I worked till 9ish so I'm actually taking tomorrow off. I've been working so much the past couple of weeks and otherwise sick that I'm behind on life stuff. So I'm going to sleep in and then do some jobs and rest. And run!

Well now!

I ran today! I'm feeling so much better. I woke up with just a bit of a headache and I actually, finally had to blow my nose. All good things. I did a 3 mile run and I was glad to be out there. Really cloudy today. Not foggy, but the air was really wet. And I lifted some weights when I got back. It's been a while for that and it was very challenging.

Good Morning

Another day, another dollar.  Or run.  Or whatever.  I did it.

No comment on my feet yet.  Seem to be doing ok without the orthotics but we'll see.  Weight is off dead center.  Up half a pound today!

Hope you get to feeling better soon.

Good Morning

Up and at it on my day off and did the 3 miles on the TM.  Rest of the day will be spend at Sam's club and Cub foods and a stop at Target.  Real relaxing!  But Christmas is coming and we have to get ready.

Another Day

Another 3 miles.  Plus the exercises.  I am down 4 lbs from Monday morning when I weighed myself after Thanksgiving.  Still want to lose 6 more before Christmas cookies begin to appear around here.

Day Off Here

The alarm went off but I decided, you know, what the heck.  I'm tired!  So I rolled over and didn't get up until 7:00.  I think 5 days a week is enough anyway.

3 miles, no hills

I ran 3 miles today but I didn't run hills. I don't know why, but I just was exhausted around 2 pm. I actually left work at 3:45! And I came home. I didn't nap or work. I listened to the end of my Life of Pi audio book (absolutely excellent, by the way) and I worked on a little craft. And now I'm going to bed!

Yay Hills!

Well, I did it! I sure have gotten out of the habit of hills at lunch, but I want to make that part of my routine again. So I did do it today. I am listening to a book I totally love so I brought my iPod with me today and that really encouraged me to get out there. It was challenging. I can tell I've not been doing them! I also ran three miles this morning. I'll do 3 again tomorrow. And hills. Probably.....

5 miles

Time to kick up my miles here! I did 5 this morning. It was cold - for me! 55. I planned on running hills at lunch but I was just so darn tired. I actually can't believe how tired. So I didn't. Hopefully tomorrow. I think my tired is because I was legit tired but also because I didn't really eat. How can I have energy!? I bet I will tomorrow.

Lesson Learned

Pecan pie with whipped cream is NOT good for the weight!!  Just though you would like to know.

Glad to hear about Cindy and the 5k walk!  That will be a fun day!

And I certainly understand why you put your tree up this early.  I would, too.

So, I'm back in gear here.  3 miles on the TM.  nike+ has been working ok although it was "off" by 2/10's of a mile with the Garmin when I ran outside on thanksgiving day  That's significant but I'm not going to recalibrate it until I can run outside on a known distance a couple of times.  It's right on with the Garmin foot pod when I'm running inside now so I don't know if I really want to recalibrate it or not.  Anyway, did the run and all the push ups and sit ups.  Have got to get control of this weight or I won't be able to eat a single Christmas cookie and that will be sad.

Big run!

I ran 7 miles today! Just goes to show what the right audio book does for commitment! It was a good run but pretty hot, actually. We had a very summer day here - 80 degrees, at least. Not very wintery, which makes me sad! Oh well. It is Christmas-y at my house at least. I have my tree up and I even made some Christmas cookies today. Good thing I ran so much because I ate a bunch of them!

5 Miles

Absolutely beautiful day here today. I didn't run until maybe 11:30 or so and it still was not too hot at that time. I'm so glad this hot hot summer finally seems to be over! Anyway, good run. I'm feeling good and my foot feels good and my hamstring still feels good. So those shoe inserts really did the trick. Should have looked into that when this first started ages ago! Oh well. Hindsight and all that! I downloaded the second book in the Furies fantasy series. I've been listening to some other books from the library when I run (Life of Pi, Neromancer, The Road). And, I don't know. They're all good book. I will finish listening to them all. But none of them have been really good running books. Maybe they just don't transport my mind. So I'll break my rule of only listening while I run so I can finish them up. Because, again, they are good. They just are not good for running!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I ran 3 this morning OUTSIDE!!!  +55 and sunny.  Kind of windy though so it was cold running into that but almost too warm when it was on my back.  And, speaking of my back, it feels fine this morning so think the spasm has resolved itself.  It felt just great to be running outside though!  Loved every minute of it.  I miss being outside.  Can you tell?  Cold front coming in tonight though so this will probably be the only day I can be out there.

I hope your knee is ok!

Bah!

Well, I did it. But I didn't like it! I was sooo slow today and just had absolutely no energy. I actually considered walking the last mile of my 3 mile run! I've had plenty of work stress, though, so I've not been sleeping. But tonight I will sleep and tomorrow I will sleep IN!

I still ran!

I really had some second thoughts, let me tell you! But I decided that, especially since I was working from home, there wasn't a lot of sense in just sitting around listening to water drip! I listened to music again today and it was fun again today! I just downloaded Ender's Game and Neuromancer from the library (side note: I love my library!) so I can't get too music obsessed here! Good eating today, healthy I mean. And I'm about to have dinner now. I realized I'm over my 30 day 3 mile period!

Back at It

Didn't get up until 7:30 but did do my usual run and exercises.  Felt good about it this morning.

Still working on the weight with little progress.  And my left heel is still bothering me some especially during the first half mile.  After that it loosens up and is ok.  I'm doing the exercises and stretches they recommended before getting on the TM so I don't know.  Maybe a chronic condition.

Tired!

Wooo, I'm worn! My pace today was wretched! And even when I left for my run I knew it. I was tired. Anyway, I did it but I don't know if it was worth anything. I am blaming the hills. Just because it's been a while since I've done them. I think it made me sore and wore me out. We'll see what tomorrow brings. I might take the day off.

Hills!

Yep, I ran hills today at lunch! This is only the second time I've done so since the marathon. I've been planning on doing it all week but I guess I'm just out of the habit. But today I made it happen and I'm very glad. And it was hard work. So time to get into the habit again! I also did run this morning. Maybe I'm tired, but it was not a super enjoyable run. I guess I just was not really into it today. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. I did some ab work today, too!

So Hungry!

I'm trying to get back on the eating track here and I'm so hungry! Good thing I have some roasted squash soup ready to heat or I might start making bad choices. And I'm saving up for Christmas! I did run today and it went great. Pretty cool. Sure wish I had been training for a marathon in this weather! Oh well, such is life. On the marathon topic, I have been contemplating doing another one. A flat one! I meant to tell you that I have still been drinking my vegetable smoothies!

Brrr!

Was I just the other day saying, "Where is our winter?!" We'll it is here! Today it was a shiver inducing 70! But, honestly, this morning was pretty cold. 47 again. No 23 degrees like some other people I know! I did run this morning, bundled up. I need some gloves. I've been saying that for a year! You'd think I'd get some! Anyway, I ran and then I did some lunges. I have been doing such junk eating. I'm working on getting that fixed and back under control. I'm not sure why I'm so off track.

I'm back!

Wow, have I ever been slacking this weekend. Not just with running, but with posting. Sorry I was MIA! I did run today. My official "day off". But I had so many other days off this week that I just felt a real need to get out there. I ran 4.75 miles. And they were good! It is good running weather because it is so cool. More tomorrow!

Good Morning

Nike+ seemed to work fine again this morning so guess I finally have it figured out.  Very close to the Garmin.  Did my 3 miles and exercises.  Felt good this morning.

Day Off

Very tired here.  Just couldn't get up with the alarm!  So, a day off.

Did it!

I didn't want to, but I did it! I was up till midnight, I think, and I sure could have slacked today. But I ran. 3 miles. Right now I'm listening to Life of Pi and it is beautiful. So far it won't get me running twice a day, but that could change! Cindy and I are going to Palm Springs tomorrow and Friday for some pool laying and spa times! So I'll be off a couple of days.

Progress

So this morning the nike+ registered 3.17 miles and the Garmin 3.12 miles which is well within the margin of error!  Maybe I finally have it calibrated correctly.  And I didn't accidentally push the pause button today so progress there, too.

And I watched TV this morning for the first time ever.  I always thought that headset wouldn't stay on my head while running but I was wrong about that.  It stayed on just fine.

Quick Update!

Great night tonight, huh?! Pretty nerve wracking and exciting. I went to Jessica's tonight for her election party. It was fun but now it's 10 pm and I just got home! So I'll say that I ran 3 miles this am. And I plan to do so tomorrow!

Theory - disproved!

I've had this theory that the audio books may be slowing me down a bit. And I put it to the test today because The Road is very dark and I just felt like I wanted something more upbeat. So I listened to music. And it did not help my pace! At all. Also, I immediately started thinking irritated thoughts about work. So, back to the book tomorrow! Good run though - very sunny out. Early, I mean. And it's super dry again here. Not 11% humidity dry, but 20%. So I ran. I did lunges. More tomorrow. Oh, I didn't even pretend to myself that I would run hills. 92 today!

Good Morning

So, this morning I used the nike+ in the pocket and it was much closer to the Garmin.  Garmin 3.22; nike+ 3.02.  So I recalibrated it again and we'll see tomorrow what happens.  I suppose it gets calibrated to a certain level or range of motion (whether great like in your hand or small like in the pocket) and that's what it works from.  I would like to not be dependent on that sensor any more.  One thing I do like about the new nike+ is that it can be set to talk to you and gives you more info than the sensor version.  I have it set to tell me every mile where I am in miles, time, and pace and the sensor version won't tell you anything except the miles.

So, today I did my 3 on the TM and got back up to 60 puch ups and 60 sit ups which is where I was at last May when I backed off of everything.

The bad news is that I found that pound I lost!  It was in the pizza we had for supper last night.

More Drama

More drama this morning.  I turned it on and put it in my pocket.  It worked but, again, the calibration was way off from the Garmin.  I think it said 1.87 miles when the Garmin said 3.05.  However, it did allow me to recalibrate it again today so maybe now it will calibrate according the motion when it's in my pocket instead of in my hand?  We'll know on Monday!  Stay tuned!

I'm wondering if runners who really, really swing their arms run farther over the same distance than runners who barely swing their arms?  You are right though.  You would think a huge company like Nike with trillions of dollars to spend could figure out a way to get this right.

On the up side this is the first week since late April that I have run every single day!  6 days in a row.  Feeling good about that but also thinking I will shoot for 5 days a week through the winter here taking either Wednesday or Thursday off.  Also my weight was down a pound today!  Nothing but good news from here.

I did it!

Today it was really a struggle to get on the road! Actually, I think a day off would have served me well. But I was up and dressed so..... I was actually pretty sore from hills yesterday. Which is why I think it was a motivational struggle. But, man, my book was so good! Can you believe I have not had a post marathon massage? Fixing that tonight!

More Drama with nike+

The drama continues. This morning I carried the ipod in my hand per instructions and ran the fastest mile and fastest 3 miles EVER!!! 8.32 mile pace!!!! Wow! When I was done the nike+ said I ran 3.35 miles and the Garmin said 3.0 exactly. I believe the Garmin is closer to the truth and no question about that. The nike+ did allow me to calibrate it this morning though which it wouldn't do yesterday. So, tomorrow's plan is to put it back in my pocket and see what it says. If it doesn't work for me there I'm done with it because I'm not going to carry it in my hand all the time.

I'm so now!

Tonight I was wearing my running gear when I went to the FM and, as I left, some 20ish Mexican guy calls over to me, "I like your shoes." Yep. I'm current. My book is killing me, Dad! I'm so close to the end. Chapter 24 or 25 out of 30ish. And I urgently want to find out what happens! Who makes my stupid rules! No book listening unless I'm running. No running over three miles unless it is Saturday. Geesh. Well, I broke the distance rule today. I ran just under 5 miles. Yes, so I could listen to more of my book! I also ran hills at lunch. And listened to my book......

Happy Halloween!

Did you have a spooky day?! Hope so! This is the day of the year where that would be ok! Good day here. Really pretty day, a bit chilly (for us). Fall is in the air! Until the Santa Ana's come back..... I had a good run this morning. You know, the usual! I'm going to start taking swimming lessons so I have something exciting and new to write about!

And....3!

I know. I'm shocking in my repetitiveness! But I did 3 miles again today. Good, cold, listened to my book. I have been toying with the idea of doing more than 3 but I really want to stick with my plan for 30 days post marathon. I'm already cheating a bit by doing a longer run on Saturday. But if I want to build up my pace, I need to pull back. I did almost run again tonight. Why? I wanted to know what was happening in my book! But it got too dark. The minute I came home, pitch black! I took the hint. I'll have a healthy dinner and read.

I forgot!

I don't know how I could possibly forget to tell you this, but I did! Saturday, just after I left for my run, I saw a coyote! I hadn't gotten to the bridge yet (so I had not even run a 1/3 of a mile) and there it was, just prancing down the middle of Meade.

3 miles

It sure is a little bit chilly out when it's not noon! And, actually, the temperature is going down while the humidity is going up. Which is so fantastic. I sure didn't want to get up this morning! But I did and I did run. 3 miles. It was good - chilly. Pace was OK. Getting better. I did some lunges after, too. I need to get back to hills. Thursday. I think I'm ready. Also, toenail report! I think I'm going to keep it! The nail seems secure. And the black is receding. "They" say that it is all due to a blood blister that forms so if that is going away, the receding black makes sense. Anyway, there are areas where it looks more red or purple now than black. It's still tender if I poke at it. So I'm taking that old school Groucho Marx doctor advice and I'm going to "don't do that!"

They're Heeeere! (Sorta....)

The weather people keep telling us the Santa Ana's are on the way. "Tomorrow." Always tomorrow! Now, today I would say they were here. I'm blowing my nose like crazy. It is so hot. And, to cap it, it is crazy dry. Not a touch of humidity to be found. Sounds a lot like the Santa Ana's. But. No wind. So......maybe this is the advance force. Maybe it really is happening tomorrow! Just looked it up. Humidity is at 11%. I totally slept in today and it was great. This is my first non running event weekend in two weeks and it's calm. I did run today, just over 6 miles. I wanted to do a little bit more, but it was just too hot. And, honestly, the dryness made it really uncomfortable. It was like I couldn't sweat! It was, overall, a good run though. My book is soooo interesting! In fact, I plan on running again tomorrow even though it is my formal day off! I want to keep doing distance runs on the weekend, I've decided. If I run 9 or so miles on Saturdays, training for distance events should be too tough. What do you think? I could do 3 to 6 mile runs during weekdays and then plan on a 9+ on the weekend.

This is where I'm heading! Took today off. Yesterday was fine but I got home around 9:30 or 10 and wasn't in bed till 12. So I slept in this morning! Gonna have a no sinus medicine day because it makes me so funny.

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.