I meant to take two weeks off. Well that turned into four. I guess I can blame the holidays and the crazy schedule. We did a lot these last two weeks. Rob has worked extra hours in the day along with leading extra services. I also dealt with some pretty extreme mood swings. I have always been someone who is more "up" in good times and "border line depressed" in struggling times. On Sunday and Monday it was so strong, I felt at times I could hardly function. I worried about the effect it was having on Rob and the kids. I felt anxious and "unsafe" like I needed Rob to be home with me (which is unrealistic). It is related to hormones. It has gotten more extreme in the past few months. I know if I just hang on, it will be gone in a few days. I was exactly right. It's always 2-3 really, really bad days. I am not sure what I'm going to do about it. Because it was a really, really bad two days. I just don't want that every single month. I am leaning towards some natural methods I learned in counseling about fifteen years ago. I think I am going to see my OB to just understand what my options are.
Anyway this was a huge reason why I did not run on Monday. I was planning on running during Rob's lunch. Then with us being at the coast and the New Years Eve events, it makes the most sense to start up after all that is over. I think I can do it this time. I do miss running. The break was nice and much needed, but it's time to get moving again.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
Marathon!!
Wow I did it! It is still setting in that I completed my second marathon. What a totally different (and better!) experience than four years ago. I learned so much after I ran Portland. I set new goals I was able to achieve this time around. It was a pretty amazing weekend and one I will never forget. My final time was 4:22:00. My mile pace was around 10:04.
At first when I thought about running a marathon this fall, I wanted the whole family involved. It was important for me to see Rob and all three kids as I crossed the finish line. I wanted them there in their Team Winter shirts cheering for me. They were my number one supporters throughout this whole process. The more we looked at different marathons in the Pacific Northwest, the more we realized this was not possible. Rob mentioned the idea of me taking a trip by myself to Sacramento. I am always talking about how I never get any "alone time." The California International Marathon offered free shuttle to the starting line from area motels. The Ramada Inn in Discovery Park also offered free shuttle from the finish line, convention, center and airport. I could easily do the whole trip without renting a car. I scoped out the map and Sacramento looked fairly easy to get around. The marathon course looked doable. It was only my second marathon so I did not want anything too hilly. It seemed perfect.
I flew out on Saturday and six people sitting around me were all running the CIM too. The guy sitting next to me was an experienced marathoner hoping to qualify for Boston. I appreciated talking to seasoned runners the whole weekend. I never felt like I was a "true runner" until now. I was a high school track drop out. My freshmen year at Calvin, a girl on my floor encouraged me to train for a 5K. My response was, "3 miles. Wow, I could never run 3 miles!" And even after I ran Portland in 2006, I thought my marathon days were short lived and over. It is a wonderful feeling to talk with these fellow runners and feel like I am part of something. There is much I can learn from them too.
I took the city bus from the airport the the Convention center downtown. I was impressed how well I did venturing around an unfamilar city. I picked up my packet and spent a little time exploring the expo. I had lunch at Wolfgang Puck express in the expo and finished reading a book I started on the airplane. It was the first time in I don't know how long that I LOVED to be myself. I craved the alone time and I soaked it all up. I left the Convention center and checked into my motel. I did a quick two mile run on a bike path in back of my motel. I was a little leary about how safe the area was. I saw some possibly homeless men or drifters wandering around and it made me a little uncomfortable. The sun was beginning to set. I loved the colors on the trees and the river. Plus the warm air was wonderful. I ate dinner at a restaurant next to the hotel and ordered pasta. It was not great, but it was not terrible either. I read more of my book and noticed all the runners venturing in. It was awesome to see many people like me...30 or 40 somethings who took a weekend away leaving their kids with their spouses to come run. Some came with groups of friends or family, but there were a lot of people like me who came alone.
Surprisingly I was pretty calm and excited about running. The night before I ran Portland I was an absolute mess. This time I watched a movie and read more of my book. It was relaxing. I was able to fall asleep around 9 PM. I awoke a couple times in the night. I was a little concerned my cough in my throat turned into a sinus headache. It was in and out. I did not feel it all night. I awoke around 4:30 AM to runners getting up and walking around outside. I got on the bus at 5 AM in front of the hotel. Our bus was jam packed with runners. There was no free seats and tons of people had to stand. I ended up sitting next to a chatty girl from Coos Bay, Oregon. She talked the whole entire trip to Folsom and even told me I could ask to her "Shut up" if she was being annoying. It was a good distraction. My nerves were starting to act up and I was concerned about my sinus head ache. I was still coughing as well. She was also trying to qualify for Boston and shared some good running tips. I found her after the race back at our motel and she did qualify.
We got to Folsom around 6:15 AM. It was pretty dark and you could not see very much. The portapotty line was massively long. By the time I used the bathroom and turned in my sweat bag, I had about fifteen minutes until the start. I decied to join a pace team. In Portland my pace was all over the pace. This was the major reason why I hit the wall at Mile #19. My goal was to get around 4:15 - 4:25 so I joined the 4:15 team. I figured if I could keep up with them most of the way, I could beat my time. The pace leaders seemed really upbeat and chatty. That would get me through the race.
The gun went off and I had that feeling I always get when I am racing. I feel like yelling "Ahhh! I am running a marathon!" The sun was starting to come up and some of us realized it was going to get warmer. We were all overdressed. We were told how cold it was the year before. So many people regretting their long sleeve shirts. I was wearing my short sleeve Team Winter shirt with my blue long sleeve shirt under it. I figured I could change in one of the port-a-potties if I got too hot. I was keeping up fine with the pace team. We were running through more a rural area passing cows and farmland.
By around Mile #8 I really started to feel warm. I felt pretty uncomfortable. I also felt like my pace was too quick and I would not be able to continue the 9:40 miles. I was hydrating as much as I could. I was not sure what to do. I tried to talk to people to distract me. I found whenever I talked, I felt like I had to cough. My sinus head ache was going in and out again. I am so used to running alone that the team leaders were almost distracting. I could not get into "the zone" I can usually break into it by this point. At the halfway point, I ducked behind a storage shed and took off my shirts. I put my short sleeve shirt on and tied my long sleeve shirt around my waist. Instantly I felt way more comfortable. What a big difference! I lost the pace team and was not sure I would be able to catch up to them. As long as I stayed in between the 4:15 team and 4:30 team, I would beat my time. That was my new goal. I figured the 4:15 pace might be too much for me. My sinus head ache was gone. I think it was due to being too warm.
Around Mile #14 we started running through all these little cute communities. There were little shops and people cheering along the side of the road. I was able to get "into the zone" and my pace dropped to about 10 minute miles. I felt way more comfortable and knew I could continue. The gu and Ultima helped so much. I was thankful I had trained with both. By Mile #19, I was absolutely pumped that I was not totally dead. I COULD KEEP RUNNING! I walked through the aid stations and probably 30 seconds to a minute after the aid stations. It was almost more work to stop and start again so I ran as much as I could. My pace got a little slower by about 5-10 seconds, but I was averaging 10 minute miles.
As we approached downtown, the crowd started to get larger. The last two miles were grueling. When are we there? Are we getting any closer? I just kept putting one foot in front of the other. My form was starting to get sloppy, but I wanted to finish as strong as I could. I was really excited when I crossed the finish and I saw my gun time was 4:25! I shaved almost fifteen minutes off my Portland time. I felt so much stronger too! When I finished Portland, I felt like an absolute wreck. I swore I never wanted to do it again. This time I was so pumped. I had several post marathon conversation with people about what marathons I wanted to try in the future.
The rest of the weekend was very relaxing and included a nap, more reading time. a short walk, and I watched a documentary. So nice to have that alone time. In my current phase of life, I never get it. Or on a very rare occassion.
I would love to do this again in another year and a half or two years if I am able. It takes a lot for Rob and I am forever grateful for all his support. I really could not do it without him and my finisher medal is partially his. It really is a team effort and he is absolutely amazing in all he does for me. He has taught me to have an attitude of "feeling blessed" not guilty.
I will continue this blog, but I will not update it as often. At this point I am seriously considering doing the Eugene Half Marathon in May. It is part of the Eugene Marathon weekend. I could probably do the full, but it is more of a timing issue if anything with the long runs. Team Winter will be at the event and I would love to do an actual race with some other Team Winter participants. I think Winter herself is doing the half. Right now I am going to take two full weeks off from all exercise. Then I would like to get back into Rob's ab workouts he does in karate. They are brutal and not fun at all, but they really work. It is only about 10-15 minutes of torture. Then I will run outside about three times a week. If it works to do Eugene, I will start training in February. Rob and the kids should be able to watch me do Eugene as he would be off on that Sunday.
I still think about the duoathlon or triathlon idea. It is going to be awhile before I can do that as I don't have a good bike and would need to book a couple more swim lessons. I might look into the local running club. It sounds crazy, but I need to learn how to run with other people. It might help with pushing myself more and pacing.
I loved traveling alone and would not have it any other way. I do sometimes wish I had "a running friend" or someone to go to races with. Trena fulfilled that role for a short while, but she moved to Hawaii. Most of my friends and family members who run are in the Midwest. So maybe the running club might help with that. Or maybe running is my "alone time." Since I am so extroverted and around children all the time, I am hardly ever alone. Maybe running fills that space inside of me.
At first when I thought about running a marathon this fall, I wanted the whole family involved. It was important for me to see Rob and all three kids as I crossed the finish line. I wanted them there in their Team Winter shirts cheering for me. They were my number one supporters throughout this whole process. The more we looked at different marathons in the Pacific Northwest, the more we realized this was not possible. Rob mentioned the idea of me taking a trip by myself to Sacramento. I am always talking about how I never get any "alone time." The California International Marathon offered free shuttle to the starting line from area motels. The Ramada Inn in Discovery Park also offered free shuttle from the finish line, convention, center and airport. I could easily do the whole trip without renting a car. I scoped out the map and Sacramento looked fairly easy to get around. The marathon course looked doable. It was only my second marathon so I did not want anything too hilly. It seemed perfect.
I flew out on Saturday and six people sitting around me were all running the CIM too. The guy sitting next to me was an experienced marathoner hoping to qualify for Boston. I appreciated talking to seasoned runners the whole weekend. I never felt like I was a "true runner" until now. I was a high school track drop out. My freshmen year at Calvin, a girl on my floor encouraged me to train for a 5K. My response was, "3 miles. Wow, I could never run 3 miles!" And even after I ran Portland in 2006, I thought my marathon days were short lived and over. It is a wonderful feeling to talk with these fellow runners and feel like I am part of something. There is much I can learn from them too.
I took the city bus from the airport the the Convention center downtown. I was impressed how well I did venturing around an unfamilar city. I picked up my packet and spent a little time exploring the expo. I had lunch at Wolfgang Puck express in the expo and finished reading a book I started on the airplane. It was the first time in I don't know how long that I LOVED to be myself. I craved the alone time and I soaked it all up. I left the Convention center and checked into my motel. I did a quick two mile run on a bike path in back of my motel. I was a little leary about how safe the area was. I saw some possibly homeless men or drifters wandering around and it made me a little uncomfortable. The sun was beginning to set. I loved the colors on the trees and the river. Plus the warm air was wonderful. I ate dinner at a restaurant next to the hotel and ordered pasta. It was not great, but it was not terrible either. I read more of my book and noticed all the runners venturing in. It was awesome to see many people like me...30 or 40 somethings who took a weekend away leaving their kids with their spouses to come run. Some came with groups of friends or family, but there were a lot of people like me who came alone.
Surprisingly I was pretty calm and excited about running. The night before I ran Portland I was an absolute mess. This time I watched a movie and read more of my book. It was relaxing. I was able to fall asleep around 9 PM. I awoke a couple times in the night. I was a little concerned my cough in my throat turned into a sinus headache. It was in and out. I did not feel it all night. I awoke around 4:30 AM to runners getting up and walking around outside. I got on the bus at 5 AM in front of the hotel. Our bus was jam packed with runners. There was no free seats and tons of people had to stand. I ended up sitting next to a chatty girl from Coos Bay, Oregon. She talked the whole entire trip to Folsom and even told me I could ask to her "Shut up" if she was being annoying. It was a good distraction. My nerves were starting to act up and I was concerned about my sinus head ache. I was still coughing as well. She was also trying to qualify for Boston and shared some good running tips. I found her after the race back at our motel and she did qualify.
We got to Folsom around 6:15 AM. It was pretty dark and you could not see very much. The portapotty line was massively long. By the time I used the bathroom and turned in my sweat bag, I had about fifteen minutes until the start. I decied to join a pace team. In Portland my pace was all over the pace. This was the major reason why I hit the wall at Mile #19. My goal was to get around 4:15 - 4:25 so I joined the 4:15 team. I figured if I could keep up with them most of the way, I could beat my time. The pace leaders seemed really upbeat and chatty. That would get me through the race.
The gun went off and I had that feeling I always get when I am racing. I feel like yelling "Ahhh! I am running a marathon!" The sun was starting to come up and some of us realized it was going to get warmer. We were all overdressed. We were told how cold it was the year before. So many people regretting their long sleeve shirts. I was wearing my short sleeve Team Winter shirt with my blue long sleeve shirt under it. I figured I could change in one of the port-a-potties if I got too hot. I was keeping up fine with the pace team. We were running through more a rural area passing cows and farmland.
By around Mile #8 I really started to feel warm. I felt pretty uncomfortable. I also felt like my pace was too quick and I would not be able to continue the 9:40 miles. I was hydrating as much as I could. I was not sure what to do. I tried to talk to people to distract me. I found whenever I talked, I felt like I had to cough. My sinus head ache was going in and out again. I am so used to running alone that the team leaders were almost distracting. I could not get into "the zone" I can usually break into it by this point. At the halfway point, I ducked behind a storage shed and took off my shirts. I put my short sleeve shirt on and tied my long sleeve shirt around my waist. Instantly I felt way more comfortable. What a big difference! I lost the pace team and was not sure I would be able to catch up to them. As long as I stayed in between the 4:15 team and 4:30 team, I would beat my time. That was my new goal. I figured the 4:15 pace might be too much for me. My sinus head ache was gone. I think it was due to being too warm.
Around Mile #14 we started running through all these little cute communities. There were little shops and people cheering along the side of the road. I was able to get "into the zone" and my pace dropped to about 10 minute miles. I felt way more comfortable and knew I could continue. The gu and Ultima helped so much. I was thankful I had trained with both. By Mile #19, I was absolutely pumped that I was not totally dead. I COULD KEEP RUNNING! I walked through the aid stations and probably 30 seconds to a minute after the aid stations. It was almost more work to stop and start again so I ran as much as I could. My pace got a little slower by about 5-10 seconds, but I was averaging 10 minute miles.
As we approached downtown, the crowd started to get larger. The last two miles were grueling. When are we there? Are we getting any closer? I just kept putting one foot in front of the other. My form was starting to get sloppy, but I wanted to finish as strong as I could. I was really excited when I crossed the finish and I saw my gun time was 4:25! I shaved almost fifteen minutes off my Portland time. I felt so much stronger too! When I finished Portland, I felt like an absolute wreck. I swore I never wanted to do it again. This time I was so pumped. I had several post marathon conversation with people about what marathons I wanted to try in the future.
The rest of the weekend was very relaxing and included a nap, more reading time. a short walk, and I watched a documentary. So nice to have that alone time. In my current phase of life, I never get it. Or on a very rare occassion.
I would love to do this again in another year and a half or two years if I am able. It takes a lot for Rob and I am forever grateful for all his support. I really could not do it without him and my finisher medal is partially his. It really is a team effort and he is absolutely amazing in all he does for me. He has taught me to have an attitude of "feeling blessed" not guilty.
I will continue this blog, but I will not update it as often. At this point I am seriously considering doing the Eugene Half Marathon in May. It is part of the Eugene Marathon weekend. I could probably do the full, but it is more of a timing issue if anything with the long runs. Team Winter will be at the event and I would love to do an actual race with some other Team Winter participants. I think Winter herself is doing the half. Right now I am going to take two full weeks off from all exercise. Then I would like to get back into Rob's ab workouts he does in karate. They are brutal and not fun at all, but they really work. It is only about 10-15 minutes of torture. Then I will run outside about three times a week. If it works to do Eugene, I will start training in February. Rob and the kids should be able to watch me do Eugene as he would be off on that Sunday.
I still think about the duoathlon or triathlon idea. It is going to be awhile before I can do that as I don't have a good bike and would need to book a couple more swim lessons. I might look into the local running club. It sounds crazy, but I need to learn how to run with other people. It might help with pushing myself more and pacing.
I loved traveling alone and would not have it any other way. I do sometimes wish I had "a running friend" or someone to go to races with. Trena fulfilled that role for a short while, but she moved to Hawaii. Most of my friends and family members who run are in the Midwest. So maybe the running club might help with that. Or maybe running is my "alone time." Since I am so extroverted and around children all the time, I am hardly ever alone. Maybe running fills that space inside of me.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Week #18
This week is all about rest until the big day on Sunday!!
Monday - Rest. And I dropped my gym membership. I am going to miss it, but I haven't been there as much this month. I would feel better if I had a bike right now so I could at least do some outside biking. I would also feel better if I had a place to take Hailey swimming. I wanted to take her more, but it turned out to be once every 2-3 months. We're looking into the South Salem Swim & Tennis Club for swim lessons for her and they offer a few open swim times as well. I don't we can afford the summer membership though. I guess I have to realize Hailey is only five and I am not at the point where I can take all three swimming yet anyway. I have been thinking about trying to do a triathlon, but I am probably going to have to wait at least a year or so.
Tuesday - Ran 3 miles
The weather was awful. Cold. Windy. Rainy. Miserable. My throat hurt a little too. I caught what everyone else has. Mine started last Wednesday so I am hoping it's better by Sunday. It's not too bad, but I am coughing...mostly at night. It's been a crazy week so far. Kara has been miserable and feverish. I think I might be taking her tomorrow, and they will probably just tell me it's a virus and she'll get over it. I am glad I was still able to run. I am glad this is the last week. There is no way I would want to do a long run in the kind of weather we're having right now.
Wednesday & Thursday - Rest
The rest has been good for me. This cough and cold is lingering. Thought I would be over it by now. I am coughing mostly at night and a little bit during the day. The plus side is that is not affecting my energy level at all. I am not fatigued or weak or achy. I would just like to be coughing less by Sunday.
Friday - Ran 2 miles
Can't remember the last time I did a short 2 mile road. Wow, I leave for Sacramento tomorrow!! Still coughing. I ran fine and my energy level is OK. I just wish I had total relief from the coughing, but maybe that is unrealistic. Glad I have two more full days for my throat to get better. It seems to be a little bit better today.
Saturday - Ran 2 miles in Sacramento
I ran around the motel I was staying in but ending up dead ending into some industrial area. I was not sure how safe the neighborhood was that I was running in. Then I saw some runners off to right up a hill. I found a beautiful bike path along the river. I started running and I just took off. It was that "I am flying feeling." It was so beautiful out with colored leaves still on the trees and the water off to the side. I was a little leary about my safety. It was pretty secluded and there were single men walking along the path...did not look like runners. I thought I saw a homeless guy wandering around. The sun was starting to set so I headed back. I got two miles in.
Monday - Rest. And I dropped my gym membership. I am going to miss it, but I haven't been there as much this month. I would feel better if I had a bike right now so I could at least do some outside biking. I would also feel better if I had a place to take Hailey swimming. I wanted to take her more, but it turned out to be once every 2-3 months. We're looking into the South Salem Swim & Tennis Club for swim lessons for her and they offer a few open swim times as well. I don't we can afford the summer membership though. I guess I have to realize Hailey is only five and I am not at the point where I can take all three swimming yet anyway. I have been thinking about trying to do a triathlon, but I am probably going to have to wait at least a year or so.
Tuesday - Ran 3 miles
The weather was awful. Cold. Windy. Rainy. Miserable. My throat hurt a little too. I caught what everyone else has. Mine started last Wednesday so I am hoping it's better by Sunday. It's not too bad, but I am coughing...mostly at night. It's been a crazy week so far. Kara has been miserable and feverish. I think I might be taking her tomorrow, and they will probably just tell me it's a virus and she'll get over it. I am glad I was still able to run. I am glad this is the last week. There is no way I would want to do a long run in the kind of weather we're having right now.
Wednesday & Thursday - Rest
The rest has been good for me. This cough and cold is lingering. Thought I would be over it by now. I am coughing mostly at night and a little bit during the day. The plus side is that is not affecting my energy level at all. I am not fatigued or weak or achy. I would just like to be coughing less by Sunday.
Friday - Ran 2 miles
Can't remember the last time I did a short 2 mile road. Wow, I leave for Sacramento tomorrow!! Still coughing. I ran fine and my energy level is OK. I just wish I had total relief from the coughing, but maybe that is unrealistic. Glad I have two more full days for my throat to get better. It seems to be a little bit better today.
Saturday - Ran 2 miles in Sacramento
I ran around the motel I was staying in but ending up dead ending into some industrial area. I was not sure how safe the neighborhood was that I was running in. Then I saw some runners off to right up a hill. I found a beautiful bike path along the river. I started running and I just took off. It was that "I am flying feeling." It was so beautiful out with colored leaves still on the trees and the water off to the side. I was a little leary about my safety. It was pretty secluded and there were single men walking along the path...did not look like runners. I thought I saw a homeless guy wandering around. The sun was starting to set so I headed back. I got two miles in.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Week #17
I can't believe I am leaving for Sacramento a week from Saturday!!
Monday - I could not really run today due to a crazy schedule. We were taking Derek out for his birthday in the evening. I was at Dr. K's office with all three kids from 1:45 PM - 3:50 PM. Really kind of stunk. I could not run during Rob's lunch because he and Hailey went to buy birthday presents for Derek. And I was not going to get up early after having arrived home from Michigan Sunday night after traveling all day long.
Tuesday - Ran 3 miles
We got hit with an "Oregon Artic Blast" which is still a little humorous after living in Michigan for so many years. Yet I am understanding the severity of it having now lived outside the Midwest for four years. There is hardly any snow. No one knows how to drive in it. They don't "de-ice" anything. They just throw gravel all over the main roads. Running outside is impossible until the ice melts along the side of the road. I guess in Oregon we don't really get snow, but we do get ice.
Rob didn't really want me driving out at night. So I went to gym during his lunch and ran three miles. I am really supposed to do four today, but given the lack of time...I made three. I went really quick like a 8.40 pace which was awesome. I was done around 26 minutes. I am getting excited for Sacramento and hope I'm ready!!
Wednesday - Ran 4 miles
I ran 4 miles and changed my route so I ran up the Boone hills...which are less overwhelming. I did not feel as good as yesterday...a little fatigued. Once I hit the second mile, I felt better. The weather was the coldest I have run in yet and I was overdressed again. It was only icy on our street so I felt safe. No big wind or rain so that made it easier.
I am thinking about dropping my gym membership. As much as I love going, I like running outside more. If I do a triathlon in a year, I may pick it up again. Rob and I talked about buying hand weights for weight training. I want to buy a bike as well. I am not as excited about going to the early morning classes anymore and it's really hard to get there in the evening. There are so few evenings in the week I can actually get over there let alone make the 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM classes. I'd really like to pick it again at least when Derek is in school and I only have one at home. Even that is not for awhile.
Thursday - Rest
We were at Jonganeels' a good part of the day for Thanksgiving. Decided to take it easy.
Friday - Ran 4 miles
Went to the gym at 8 PM and there were like three other people there. I had a really good run on the treadmill. Did not go quite as fast as Wednesday, but still finished in about forty minutes. I felt good afterwards too.
Saturday - Pool
I took Hailey swimming. It may not count as cross training, but it was very relaxing. I tread water in the deep end with her for about 15 minutes and swam around. The hot tub felt amazing on the joints in my legs.
Holy cow, I can't believe I am flying to Sacramento a week from today. Is this for real?
Sunday - Ran 8 miles
My last long run! It was a fantastic run. I felt a little weak the first 1/2 mile, but once I got going I felt awesome. I reflected so much on the last few months as I was running. I am so blessed by this whole experience. From running in the summer into fall and now at the beginning of winter.
It was good to get out too. I had to miss church yet again. I have been miss a lot of Sundays lately. Kara caught this cough and cold we all got. Hers generated a high fever and it got all the way up to 104. No throwing up. Just trying to give her lots of TLC and keeping her comfortable. I have had this throaty cough since I left Michigan and it was really bad Friday night. Seems to be improving each day.
Monday - I could not really run today due to a crazy schedule. We were taking Derek out for his birthday in the evening. I was at Dr. K's office with all three kids from 1:45 PM - 3:50 PM. Really kind of stunk. I could not run during Rob's lunch because he and Hailey went to buy birthday presents for Derek. And I was not going to get up early after having arrived home from Michigan Sunday night after traveling all day long.
Tuesday - Ran 3 miles
We got hit with an "Oregon Artic Blast" which is still a little humorous after living in Michigan for so many years. Yet I am understanding the severity of it having now lived outside the Midwest for four years. There is hardly any snow. No one knows how to drive in it. They don't "de-ice" anything. They just throw gravel all over the main roads. Running outside is impossible until the ice melts along the side of the road. I guess in Oregon we don't really get snow, but we do get ice.
Rob didn't really want me driving out at night. So I went to gym during his lunch and ran three miles. I am really supposed to do four today, but given the lack of time...I made three. I went really quick like a 8.40 pace which was awesome. I was done around 26 minutes. I am getting excited for Sacramento and hope I'm ready!!
Wednesday - Ran 4 miles
I ran 4 miles and changed my route so I ran up the Boone hills...which are less overwhelming. I did not feel as good as yesterday...a little fatigued. Once I hit the second mile, I felt better. The weather was the coldest I have run in yet and I was overdressed again. It was only icy on our street so I felt safe. No big wind or rain so that made it easier.
I am thinking about dropping my gym membership. As much as I love going, I like running outside more. If I do a triathlon in a year, I may pick it up again. Rob and I talked about buying hand weights for weight training. I want to buy a bike as well. I am not as excited about going to the early morning classes anymore and it's really hard to get there in the evening. There are so few evenings in the week I can actually get over there let alone make the 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM classes. I'd really like to pick it again at least when Derek is in school and I only have one at home. Even that is not for awhile.
Thursday - Rest
We were at Jonganeels' a good part of the day for Thanksgiving. Decided to take it easy.
Friday - Ran 4 miles
Went to the gym at 8 PM and there were like three other people there. I had a really good run on the treadmill. Did not go quite as fast as Wednesday, but still finished in about forty minutes. I felt good afterwards too.
Saturday - Pool
I took Hailey swimming. It may not count as cross training, but it was very relaxing. I tread water in the deep end with her for about 15 minutes and swam around. The hot tub felt amazing on the joints in my legs.
Holy cow, I can't believe I am flying to Sacramento a week from today. Is this for real?
Sunday - Ran 8 miles
My last long run! It was a fantastic run. I felt a little weak the first 1/2 mile, but once I got going I felt awesome. I reflected so much on the last few months as I was running. I am so blessed by this whole experience. From running in the summer into fall and now at the beginning of winter.
It was good to get out too. I had to miss church yet again. I have been miss a lot of Sundays lately. Kara caught this cough and cold we all got. Hers generated a high fever and it got all the way up to 104. No throwing up. Just trying to give her lots of TLC and keeping her comfortable. I have had this throaty cough since I left Michigan and it was really bad Friday night. Seems to be improving each day.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Week #16
Can't believe I am to the taper already!!
Sunday - Ran 5 miles
Surprisingly I felt good. Was thinking I would be more sore after running 20 miles two days ago. I have a little bit of pain in my right thigh...like closer to the back of the knee. This is the exact same spot it hurt after I ran Portland. I did my regular five mile route to Sumpter Park. I was overdressed. For some reason I thought it was cooler than what it actually was. The weather was cloudy, but no rain.
Monday - OK I just back from Grand Rapids and I am trying to write last week's entries. I can't remember when I ran. I think (if I remember right) I did not run last Monday.
Tuesday - Ran 4 miles
I am pretty sure I ran 4 on Tuesday during Rob's lunch and I think my regular four mile route. As far as I know, the run went well and was uneventful.
Wednesday - I know I did not run because I was traveling all day - from 7 AM (Pacific time) until 9 PM (Eastern time). Very long day!
Thursday - Ran 5 miles
I ran five miles on the treadmill at the Prince Conference Center Exercise Room. I watched Fox News and the Office. Even with being able to watch shows, I DO NOT LIKE THE TREADMILL. I am constantly looking at the time and mileage. I don't feel comfortable. I had to stop and go to the bathroom. I kind of call it "conference bug." With all the different foods I eat at conferences, I often get digestive issues. It is usually mild and goes away really fast, but running made it worse. Then I got interrupted to get more water and give my roommate a room key. It just wasn't a very fun run.
Friday, Saturday, & Sunday - I did not run because our schedule just did not allow the time to get away. I hate missing another long run. If I did not have Kara with me, I would have run in Fruitport on my old running paths. But that was not really possible. I don't think it will set me back. I plan to run 8 on Friday. I feel like I will be ready for the marathon. Honestly the way my schedule has been and with all these trips...I've done pretty well.
Sunday - Ran 5 miles
Surprisingly I felt good. Was thinking I would be more sore after running 20 miles two days ago. I have a little bit of pain in my right thigh...like closer to the back of the knee. This is the exact same spot it hurt after I ran Portland. I did my regular five mile route to Sumpter Park. I was overdressed. For some reason I thought it was cooler than what it actually was. The weather was cloudy, but no rain.
Monday - OK I just back from Grand Rapids and I am trying to write last week's entries. I can't remember when I ran. I think (if I remember right) I did not run last Monday.
Tuesday - Ran 4 miles
I am pretty sure I ran 4 on Tuesday during Rob's lunch and I think my regular four mile route. As far as I know, the run went well and was uneventful.
Wednesday - I know I did not run because I was traveling all day - from 7 AM (Pacific time) until 9 PM (Eastern time). Very long day!
Thursday - Ran 5 miles
I ran five miles on the treadmill at the Prince Conference Center Exercise Room. I watched Fox News and the Office. Even with being able to watch shows, I DO NOT LIKE THE TREADMILL. I am constantly looking at the time and mileage. I don't feel comfortable. I had to stop and go to the bathroom. I kind of call it "conference bug." With all the different foods I eat at conferences, I often get digestive issues. It is usually mild and goes away really fast, but running made it worse. Then I got interrupted to get more water and give my roommate a room key. It just wasn't a very fun run.
Friday, Saturday, & Sunday - I did not run because our schedule just did not allow the time to get away. I hate missing another long run. If I did not have Kara with me, I would have run in Fruitport on my old running paths. But that was not really possible. I don't think it will set me back. I plan to run 8 on Friday. I feel like I will be ready for the marathon. Honestly the way my schedule has been and with all these trips...I've done pretty well.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Week #15
Monday - Ran 5 miles
I ran at Rob's lunch and thankfully avoided the rain. It was sunny when I started, but it has been in and out all day. It started pouring buckets about five minutes after I returned home. I hate taking so much time off. But I was happy I felt pretty strong after the first mile. I did my regular five mile run to Sumpter Park.
No pain anywhere and my stomach is fine. I am only going to concentrate on running this week. I am hoping to do some easy cross training (probably just a walk or easy bike ride on the stationary bike) this week. This is my last huge week before the taper. I am pretty sure I can do my 20 mile run on Friday. I am ready for it! Bring it on!
Tuesday - Ran 5 miles
I ran during Rob's lunch again. Bad weather. Cold, windy, and rainy. It's been in the 40's which is a little bit cooler for November in Oregon. The wind was fairly strong. I was in rain part of the time, but not any downpours so it was manageable. My hands were cold, but the rest of me was fine. I ran on Boone so I could some hills and then just up Commerical to Fabry and then back. I was surprised how hard the hills on Boone were today. Last time I ran them, I felt much stronger. I almost walked up the last one. It was a mix of the wind, cold, and the fact I have not been as consistent with running the last two and a half weeks.
Wednesday - Ran 5 miles
Three days in a row. Again during Rob's lunch. I did Monday's route, but I ran the opposite way. The weather was better today. No wind. Barely any rain...just a mist in the air. I felt a little tired, but not like yesterday. I am glad I feel much more motivated this week. Nothing is hurting or injured. I am hoping it can stay that way.
Thursday - Rest
Nice break! I needed it.
Friday - Ran 20 miles!!!
It was a nice sunny day. I thought of saving the 20 miler for Sunday. I was not sure if this weather would last. And today worked better with Rob's schedule. The temperature was perfect. The sign by Mc Donalds said it was 54 degrees and the billboard said 49 degrees so it was around that. I wore my long sleeve marathon shirt and Nike shorts. I went from periods of being too hot and then too cold and then hot again. I did a 12 mile loop, stopped at home very briefly to fill up my water bottle and grab another pack of gu, and then did my 8 mile loop. I started out feeling really good. By around mile #6, I started to feel fatigued. I stopped and walked up the Battlecreek hill. I was actually pretty nervous about this run. I think because my 20 milers were really tough when I trained for Portland. I am pretty sure it was a mix of nerves and stomach issues. And maybe I had not eaten enough? I ran up the Fox Haven hill and Landau hill without walking and feeling fine so I thought it was more nerves. By Mile #10 my stomach was acting up. I stopped at Circle K to go to the bathroom. After that, no more stomach issues. I was fine.
The best part of the run for me today was Mile #12 - #14. Yes, there is such thing as a second wind. I felt great. Started to get more fatigued by Mile #15, but kept myself moving. I found it almost harder to stop and walk and then start up again. I was doing better slowing my pace down. Once I started to walk, it was hard to get my legs going again into a run. I did about ten minute miles so I was happy with how it went overall. I only stopped to walk four or five times for one to two minutes. I did not feel as strong as my 19 miler. I think my body is still recovering from the intestinal thing last week.
Saturday - I rested. My body felt shot. I was so fatigued all I day. I did not get done half the stuff done I was supposed to. I guess I cannot expect anything more from myself. The soreness and fatigue was starting to feel better by 6 PM.
I ran at Rob's lunch and thankfully avoided the rain. It was sunny when I started, but it has been in and out all day. It started pouring buckets about five minutes after I returned home. I hate taking so much time off. But I was happy I felt pretty strong after the first mile. I did my regular five mile run to Sumpter Park.
No pain anywhere and my stomach is fine. I am only going to concentrate on running this week. I am hoping to do some easy cross training (probably just a walk or easy bike ride on the stationary bike) this week. This is my last huge week before the taper. I am pretty sure I can do my 20 mile run on Friday. I am ready for it! Bring it on!
Tuesday - Ran 5 miles
I ran during Rob's lunch again. Bad weather. Cold, windy, and rainy. It's been in the 40's which is a little bit cooler for November in Oregon. The wind was fairly strong. I was in rain part of the time, but not any downpours so it was manageable. My hands were cold, but the rest of me was fine. I ran on Boone so I could some hills and then just up Commerical to Fabry and then back. I was surprised how hard the hills on Boone were today. Last time I ran them, I felt much stronger. I almost walked up the last one. It was a mix of the wind, cold, and the fact I have not been as consistent with running the last two and a half weeks.
Wednesday - Ran 5 miles
Three days in a row. Again during Rob's lunch. I did Monday's route, but I ran the opposite way. The weather was better today. No wind. Barely any rain...just a mist in the air. I felt a little tired, but not like yesterday. I am glad I feel much more motivated this week. Nothing is hurting or injured. I am hoping it can stay that way.
Thursday - Rest
Nice break! I needed it.
Friday - Ran 20 miles!!!
It was a nice sunny day. I thought of saving the 20 miler for Sunday. I was not sure if this weather would last. And today worked better with Rob's schedule. The temperature was perfect. The sign by Mc Donalds said it was 54 degrees and the billboard said 49 degrees so it was around that. I wore my long sleeve marathon shirt and Nike shorts. I went from periods of being too hot and then too cold and then hot again. I did a 12 mile loop, stopped at home very briefly to fill up my water bottle and grab another pack of gu, and then did my 8 mile loop. I started out feeling really good. By around mile #6, I started to feel fatigued. I stopped and walked up the Battlecreek hill. I was actually pretty nervous about this run. I think because my 20 milers were really tough when I trained for Portland. I am pretty sure it was a mix of nerves and stomach issues. And maybe I had not eaten enough? I ran up the Fox Haven hill and Landau hill without walking and feeling fine so I thought it was more nerves. By Mile #10 my stomach was acting up. I stopped at Circle K to go to the bathroom. After that, no more stomach issues. I was fine.
The best part of the run for me today was Mile #12 - #14. Yes, there is such thing as a second wind. I felt great. Started to get more fatigued by Mile #15, but kept myself moving. I found it almost harder to stop and walk and then start up again. I was doing better slowing my pace down. Once I started to walk, it was hard to get my legs going again into a run. I did about ten minute miles so I was happy with how it went overall. I only stopped to walk four or five times for one to two minutes. I did not feel as strong as my 19 miler. I think my body is still recovering from the intestinal thing last week.
Saturday - I rested. My body felt shot. I was so fatigued all I day. I did not get done half the stuff done I was supposed to. I guess I cannot expect anything more from myself. The soreness and fatigue was starting to feel better by 6 PM.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Week #14
Monday - Ran 5 miles
I am no longer running in the mornings because it is way too dark. I also am taking a break from Power because I am worried about overduing it with the strength training. I was reading Hal's tips for marathon training and he says to ease up on strength training by this point and cut it out all together by around Week #16. I know I need to do more with cross training and stretching. Honestly that is more of a scheduling issue if anything. I did walk for about a half hour on Sunday afternoon and that does count for cross training. I do like sleeping until 7 AM.
Anyway I ran my five mile route to Sumpter Park at 5 PM. The rain held off at least until the third mile. It was not a downpour this time, but I was pretty wet. I felt good except my muscles feel really tight. I want to do some good stretching this week.
Tuesday and Wednesday - Rest
In some ways it has been a tough week and I have not been very motivated. Which is why I did not run either of these days.
Thursday - Centergy
I went to Centergy and I have not gone since February. Back when I joined the Courthouse in January of 2009, I went to Centergy at least once a week...sometimes twice. I went for about four months until morning sickness set in with Kara and it was too much. I went two or three times last winter. I used to love it. I felt really energized by it. It was my favorite class.
My muscles has been so tight. I really should have been going all throughout this marathon training period. The running itself takes so much time. I don't know how I can squeeze anything else in there. Maybe if I run a marathon when Kara is 18, I'll have time for it. By that time I'll be 50. Am I really going to want to do this at age 50? I can see myself doing something like Curves or aerobics or jazzercise. :)
Anyway I did not get the memo you now have to bring you own mat to Centergy. This guy was nice enough to lend me his. He had two. Which means if I want to go back, I should stop at Big Five and buy a yoga mat. I'm not sure I want to spend my money on that right now. To be honest, the workout was tough! It hurt. The instructor said I probably needed it if it hurt that bad. I really really liked her. Which would probably make want to go back. It is more of a community class. The people were really sweet and chatty. No one at Power ever talks. So we'll see if I go back. It was nice break from running.
Friday and Saturday and probably Sunday - No running
Ugh! I hate missing all this training. Rob and Kara had an intestinal bug on Sunday. Kara was still pretty perky, but pretty pale in her face. Her appetite was a little lower. She had diarrhea and threw up twice...right after she ate. Rob was still able to preach two sermons (which included the evening one in Portland) and he did not seem too bad. So my thinking was if I don't get it by Thursday 1) I'm in the clear or 2) It will be mild. I was wrong on both. I could feel it coming on Thursday night around 11 PM and just planned on being sick on Friday. Rob was off work and I had gotten caught up on my studying and Banner work so I knew I would be OK. It was not mild...it usually isn't for me. Don't know what I was thinking. I was wiped out all day and went to bed at 9 PM. Around 4 PM yesterday all the intestinal stuff was gone, but I had a pounding head ache and felt overly weak. I am pretty much back to normal (it is Saturday night), but because I only drank Gatorade and ate soda crackers for 24 hours, my strength is not fully back. I hate, hate, hate missing all this running. I feel like I've been inconsistent since we left for Arizona. I go to Grand Rapids in two weeks which is going to disrupt my schedule again. I really cannot overdue it this weekend. I usually take two to three extra days off when I get sick. So I'll probably start up on Monday and call this a week.
I am no longer running in the mornings because it is way too dark. I also am taking a break from Power because I am worried about overduing it with the strength training. I was reading Hal's tips for marathon training and he says to ease up on strength training by this point and cut it out all together by around Week #16. I know I need to do more with cross training and stretching. Honestly that is more of a scheduling issue if anything. I did walk for about a half hour on Sunday afternoon and that does count for cross training. I do like sleeping until 7 AM.
Anyway I ran my five mile route to Sumpter Park at 5 PM. The rain held off at least until the third mile. It was not a downpour this time, but I was pretty wet. I felt good except my muscles feel really tight. I want to do some good stretching this week.
Tuesday and Wednesday - Rest
In some ways it has been a tough week and I have not been very motivated. Which is why I did not run either of these days.
Thursday - Centergy
I went to Centergy and I have not gone since February. Back when I joined the Courthouse in January of 2009, I went to Centergy at least once a week...sometimes twice. I went for about four months until morning sickness set in with Kara and it was too much. I went two or three times last winter. I used to love it. I felt really energized by it. It was my favorite class.
My muscles has been so tight. I really should have been going all throughout this marathon training period. The running itself takes so much time. I don't know how I can squeeze anything else in there. Maybe if I run a marathon when Kara is 18, I'll have time for it. By that time I'll be 50. Am I really going to want to do this at age 50? I can see myself doing something like Curves or aerobics or jazzercise. :)
Anyway I did not get the memo you now have to bring you own mat to Centergy. This guy was nice enough to lend me his. He had two. Which means if I want to go back, I should stop at Big Five and buy a yoga mat. I'm not sure I want to spend my money on that right now. To be honest, the workout was tough! It hurt. The instructor said I probably needed it if it hurt that bad. I really really liked her. Which would probably make want to go back. It is more of a community class. The people were really sweet and chatty. No one at Power ever talks. So we'll see if I go back. It was nice break from running.
Friday and Saturday and probably Sunday - No running
Ugh! I hate missing all this training. Rob and Kara had an intestinal bug on Sunday. Kara was still pretty perky, but pretty pale in her face. Her appetite was a little lower. She had diarrhea and threw up twice...right after she ate. Rob was still able to preach two sermons (which included the evening one in Portland) and he did not seem too bad. So my thinking was if I don't get it by Thursday 1) I'm in the clear or 2) It will be mild. I was wrong on both. I could feel it coming on Thursday night around 11 PM and just planned on being sick on Friday. Rob was off work and I had gotten caught up on my studying and Banner work so I knew I would be OK. It was not mild...it usually isn't for me. Don't know what I was thinking. I was wiped out all day and went to bed at 9 PM. Around 4 PM yesterday all the intestinal stuff was gone, but I had a pounding head ache and felt overly weak. I am pretty much back to normal (it is Saturday night), but because I only drank Gatorade and ate soda crackers for 24 hours, my strength is not fully back. I hate, hate, hate missing all this running. I feel like I've been inconsistent since we left for Arizona. I go to Grand Rapids in two weeks which is going to disrupt my schedule again. I really cannot overdue it this weekend. I usually take two to three extra days off when I get sick. So I'll probably start up on Monday and call this a week.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Week #13
Monday - Rest
Decided to rest after the long run yesterday and falling. I do have a little bit of pain below the knee off to the right side which is where I fell. It hurts a little when I walk, but goes in and out. I am going to try and run tomorrow and see how it feels. Praying to stay injury free for five more weeks!
Tuesday - Ran 5 miles
Rob is off all week so I ran in the afternoon. I ran up and down Boone and the Barnes/Reed loop. Was a nice change of pace from my regular five mile loop. Maybe I am apprehensive of running on Sunnyside again since I fell. Physically I felt fine. No pain or soreness anywhere. I feel like I need to do some stretching because I feel tight in places. I hope I can get to Power at some point this week or for sure early next week. The weather started out fine, but then I hit a downpour again around Mile #3. I was absolutely drenched and cold by the time I got home. I had to go right to the shower. I am not used to running in the rain!
Wednesday - Ran 5 miles
Avoided the rain today! Nice. Did a three mile loop and then a two mile loop with a stop at home for the bathroom and water in between. Was a nice run and I felt really good.
Thursday - Ran 5 miles
Stopped by Winter's house tonight to pick up a biking shirt. Always inspired when I talk to Winter and Dawn. They are appreciative of those of us who are creating prostate cancer awareness and are they are doing some great things. The kids are energetic and full of life.
I ran 5 miles on the treadmill at the Courthouse. I still haven't bought headphones but was able to watch a show on HGTV by reading the closed captioning. My average pace was around 9.30 and I finished in less than 50 minutes so I was happy with my run. I haven't run in the evening or on the treadmill in a very long time so it was a nice change of pace. Still kind of thinking what I want my winter/spring fitness goals to be. Not sure if I want to take on a duathlon this early. I can to go Group Ride twice a week and Cheryl said I could borrow her road bike. I am going to think more about that. Have to get through this marathon first!
Friday - Rest
Needed to rest after three days of running.
Saturday - Ran 19 miles
I was not overly nervous about running this long. I am to the point where I can mentally break the run into sections. The longs runs don't seem as intimidating anymore. Running in the afternoon helps. I don't have to get up early and tackle it first thing. The weather was better. Around 55 degrees. I ran the whole time in a t-shirt and shorts and was comfortable. Saw lots of runner and some were in long sleeves and pants, but I doubt they were running as long as I was. No big downpours. Just misty in the air and slight drizzle, but not uncomfortable to run in. I think I figured out why I fell on Sunday. The sidewalk is broken up in that part and I think I tripped on the uneven surface. I ran on the street at that part just to avoid the same thing happening.
I did my 8 1/2 mile loop, then stopped at home very briefly to fill up my water bottle, go to the bathroom, and ate some pretzels. I did the same loop again. I stopped at home again, went to the bathroom, and ate some crackers, drank some water. I then finished with 2 miles around the neighborhood. I took gu around Mile #5 and Mile #10 and then my second stop at the house (Mile #17). I drank water at the stoplights. I walked very little besides the stops: two or three two minute walks. It was good. I felt quite strong. I really felt like if I had to run the marathon today, I could have done it. The last 20 mile run and the taper are going to help me run even stronger on December 5th.
Sunday - Rest
It is Saturday night as I am writing this, but I am not planning on any exercise tomorrow...possibly a short walk around the neighborhood to take the kids trick or treating. But that is about it.
Decided to rest after the long run yesterday and falling. I do have a little bit of pain below the knee off to the right side which is where I fell. It hurts a little when I walk, but goes in and out. I am going to try and run tomorrow and see how it feels. Praying to stay injury free for five more weeks!
Tuesday - Ran 5 miles
Rob is off all week so I ran in the afternoon. I ran up and down Boone and the Barnes/Reed loop. Was a nice change of pace from my regular five mile loop. Maybe I am apprehensive of running on Sunnyside again since I fell. Physically I felt fine. No pain or soreness anywhere. I feel like I need to do some stretching because I feel tight in places. I hope I can get to Power at some point this week or for sure early next week. The weather started out fine, but then I hit a downpour again around Mile #3. I was absolutely drenched and cold by the time I got home. I had to go right to the shower. I am not used to running in the rain!
Wednesday - Ran 5 miles
Avoided the rain today! Nice. Did a three mile loop and then a two mile loop with a stop at home for the bathroom and water in between. Was a nice run and I felt really good.
Thursday - Ran 5 miles
Stopped by Winter's house tonight to pick up a biking shirt. Always inspired when I talk to Winter and Dawn. They are appreciative of those of us who are creating prostate cancer awareness and are they are doing some great things. The kids are energetic and full of life.
I ran 5 miles on the treadmill at the Courthouse. I still haven't bought headphones but was able to watch a show on HGTV by reading the closed captioning. My average pace was around 9.30 and I finished in less than 50 minutes so I was happy with my run. I haven't run in the evening or on the treadmill in a very long time so it was a nice change of pace. Still kind of thinking what I want my winter/spring fitness goals to be. Not sure if I want to take on a duathlon this early. I can to go Group Ride twice a week and Cheryl said I could borrow her road bike. I am going to think more about that. Have to get through this marathon first!
Friday - Rest
Needed to rest after three days of running.
Saturday - Ran 19 miles
I was not overly nervous about running this long. I am to the point where I can mentally break the run into sections. The longs runs don't seem as intimidating anymore. Running in the afternoon helps. I don't have to get up early and tackle it first thing. The weather was better. Around 55 degrees. I ran the whole time in a t-shirt and shorts and was comfortable. Saw lots of runner and some were in long sleeves and pants, but I doubt they were running as long as I was. No big downpours. Just misty in the air and slight drizzle, but not uncomfortable to run in. I think I figured out why I fell on Sunday. The sidewalk is broken up in that part and I think I tripped on the uneven surface. I ran on the street at that part just to avoid the same thing happening.
I did my 8 1/2 mile loop, then stopped at home very briefly to fill up my water bottle, go to the bathroom, and ate some pretzels. I did the same loop again. I stopped at home again, went to the bathroom, and ate some crackers, drank some water. I then finished with 2 miles around the neighborhood. I took gu around Mile #5 and Mile #10 and then my second stop at the house (Mile #17). I drank water at the stoplights. I walked very little besides the stops: two or three two minute walks. It was good. I felt quite strong. I really felt like if I had to run the marathon today, I could have done it. The last 20 mile run and the taper are going to help me run even stronger on December 5th.
Sunday - Rest
It is Saturday night as I am writing this, but I am not planning on any exercise tomorrow...possibly a short walk around the neighborhood to take the kids trick or treating. But that is about it.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Week #12
Monday - Walking
No real official workout today. I did walk around the Phoenix Zoo. I played with the kids in the pool for two hours so I was active.
Tuesday - Ran approximately 5 miles in Phoenix
I mapped a route and lost track of the streets very early on. Glenn offered to run with me and I should have taken him up on it. I didn't want to hold him back because I still had to feed Kara. Rob was not up yet to take her. I ran on my own and aside from not knowing the area at all, I felt great! Felt stronger than ever. A break sure helps and makes a difference. New scenery was good too.
Wednesday - Rest
Did not get up to run because I was afraid I would not be ready in time to go to the Grand Canyon. Did not want to hold everyone up. Plus my heel was hurting from yesterday. I brought my crummy running shoes along.
Thursday - Hiking
We did a pretty intense hike in the Grand Canyon and I had Kara on my back the whole time. I don't know how far we officially went--maybe a mile and a half? It was more intense than I thought it would be and the altitude made it hard to breathe. I had a great time and it was fun doing it with family.
Friday - Rest
Big travel day. Drove from Grand Canyon to Phoenix. Then flew from Phoenix to Portland. Drove from Portland to Salem. Back home at 12:30 AM. Long day!
Saturday - Rest
The kids slept on and off all day. They were exhuasted from the trip. Rob was at a karate tournament all day. So getting out to exercise was next to impossible.
Sunday - Ran 13 miles
Ugh! I am not ready for this rain. I miss my nice beautiful fall long runs in the sunshine. The ten forecast is rain, rain, rain. I don't know why I even look at it. We're in this for the long haul. Anyway because the drinking fountains are off and the weather is crummy, I opted for doing laps. That way if I drenched and need to change socks or clothes, I can. I wanted to try and see if I like running without a water bottle and just stopping at home every 5-6 miles. I ran my 5 mile route twice and my three mile route once. I don't like it as much, but considering the weather and no water situation...it is not so bad. I liked being able to use my own bathroom verus the ones in the parks or gas stations.
I was stuck in a downpour from Mile 5 - around 8. I was absolutely drenched, but pretty proud of the fact my shirt dried quickly. I was not all that cold until I was finished. The bad part was I lost my footing around Mile #6 and fell to the ground. This is the second time in my life I have done this (the first was in fall of 2000 just after I took up running for the first time). I don't know what happened. All the sudden I was falling and the first thing that went through my mind was, "Don't get injured! Don't get injured!" I fell on Sunnyside just after Idylwood where the sidewalk is not great and it was slippery from the rain. Thankfully I threw my hands out in time and they hit the ground the first and broke my fall. They are throbbing right now and I just took Tylenol. I hit the side of my right knee. I think this was sore anyway from the downhill hiking. I can't tell. The fact I was able to keep running and not in much pain convinces me I am OK. I am going to ice it if it starts hurting. Kind of a crazy run!!
No real official workout today. I did walk around the Phoenix Zoo. I played with the kids in the pool for two hours so I was active.
Tuesday - Ran approximately 5 miles in Phoenix
I mapped a route and lost track of the streets very early on. Glenn offered to run with me and I should have taken him up on it. I didn't want to hold him back because I still had to feed Kara. Rob was not up yet to take her. I ran on my own and aside from not knowing the area at all, I felt great! Felt stronger than ever. A break sure helps and makes a difference. New scenery was good too.
Wednesday - Rest
Did not get up to run because I was afraid I would not be ready in time to go to the Grand Canyon. Did not want to hold everyone up. Plus my heel was hurting from yesterday. I brought my crummy running shoes along.
Thursday - Hiking
We did a pretty intense hike in the Grand Canyon and I had Kara on my back the whole time. I don't know how far we officially went--maybe a mile and a half? It was more intense than I thought it would be and the altitude made it hard to breathe. I had a great time and it was fun doing it with family.
Friday - Rest
Big travel day. Drove from Grand Canyon to Phoenix. Then flew from Phoenix to Portland. Drove from Portland to Salem. Back home at 12:30 AM. Long day!
Saturday - Rest
The kids slept on and off all day. They were exhuasted from the trip. Rob was at a karate tournament all day. So getting out to exercise was next to impossible.
Sunday - Ran 13 miles
Ugh! I am not ready for this rain. I miss my nice beautiful fall long runs in the sunshine. The ten forecast is rain, rain, rain. I don't know why I even look at it. We're in this for the long haul. Anyway because the drinking fountains are off and the weather is crummy, I opted for doing laps. That way if I drenched and need to change socks or clothes, I can. I wanted to try and see if I like running without a water bottle and just stopping at home every 5-6 miles. I ran my 5 mile route twice and my three mile route once. I don't like it as much, but considering the weather and no water situation...it is not so bad. I liked being able to use my own bathroom verus the ones in the parks or gas stations.
I was stuck in a downpour from Mile 5 - around 8. I was absolutely drenched, but pretty proud of the fact my shirt dried quickly. I was not all that cold until I was finished. The bad part was I lost my footing around Mile #6 and fell to the ground. This is the second time in my life I have done this (the first was in fall of 2000 just after I took up running for the first time). I don't know what happened. All the sudden I was falling and the first thing that went through my mind was, "Don't get injured! Don't get injured!" I fell on Sunnyside just after Idylwood where the sidewalk is not great and it was slippery from the rain. Thankfully I threw my hands out in time and they hit the ground the first and broke my fall. They are throbbing right now and I just took Tylenol. I hit the side of my right knee. I think this was sore anyway from the downhill hiking. I can't tell. The fact I was able to keep running and not in much pain convinces me I am OK. I am going to ice it if it starts hurting. Kind of a crazy run!!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Week #11
Monday - Rest
Had thought about going to Power, but my body hurt too much. I needed to rest.
Tuesday - Ran 5 miles
Rob had a 7 AM meeting and we were both going to get up at 5:30 AM. He set Alarm #1 for 5:30 which he forgot to turn on. Alarm #2 was set and went off at 6:05 AM. That did not give me enough time to get back by 6:50. So Rob said to just run at lunch. I was surprised how tired and sore I felt at first. I really did not feel good until around Mile #4. It was a super beautiful day and slightly cool. Perfect. I did my Sumpter Park 5 mile route I was doing at the beginning of the summer. I missed this route.
Wednesday - Ran 8 miles
I am glad I got this run completed today. Except now I am so tired, I really wish I could lay down and take a long nap. I am exhausted. I need a second wind.
It is working better to run in the afternoons right now. Rob did not mind taking a little bit longer of a lunch. It took me about 80 minutes. I did the same 8 mile route as last week. I did not feel as strong, but I did not feel overly fatigued either. I don't have pain anywhere...just don't feel like I can do the faster pace I did last week.
The high schools must have a half day because I saw tons of little groups of high schoolers unattended wandering around. Not a big deal, but some are downright annoying. I like high schoolers for the most part, but not when they yell at you or make comments when you are just trying to mind your own business and go running.
Thursday - Cross training?
I guess you could call it that. I walked home from MOPS at Bethany Baptist with the double stroller. Then we stopped at ILC and picked up Hailey from school. It was only about a mile and a half and honestly it was worse than running. That double stroller is awkward to push (especially up the Idylwood hill) and the curved sidewalks do not help. Plus it is a long walk for Hailey and Derek was pretty impatient. Was happy to reach our house at noon. The whole thing from start to finish (including waiting five minutes for Hailey) took an hour. Rob and I both need the car Thursday morning and so this is an ongoing issue. I am willing to walk this once in awhile.
Friday - Rest
I was going to do my 18 miler, but decided to clean the whole house instead. Too much to do before getting ready for the trip. I felt bad missing it, and hoping it doesn't set me back. I have been very consistent the last few weeks. I think I'll be OK.
Saturday - Rest
Traveled all day to Arizona. It is Sunday as I am writing this. If I end up running tonight I'll put it on with Week #12 or add to this entry. The break off from running is really good. For the first time in a long time, my muscles don't feel so fatigued and sore.
Sunday - Hiking
We did a fairly easy hike to the top of a huge cliff/mountain or whatever you want to call it. I had Kara on my back the whole time. It was so beautiful! I love the desert and the Southwest!!
Had thought about going to Power, but my body hurt too much. I needed to rest.
Tuesday - Ran 5 miles
Rob had a 7 AM meeting and we were both going to get up at 5:30 AM. He set Alarm #1 for 5:30 which he forgot to turn on. Alarm #2 was set and went off at 6:05 AM. That did not give me enough time to get back by 6:50. So Rob said to just run at lunch. I was surprised how tired and sore I felt at first. I really did not feel good until around Mile #4. It was a super beautiful day and slightly cool. Perfect. I did my Sumpter Park 5 mile route I was doing at the beginning of the summer. I missed this route.
Wednesday - Ran 8 miles
I am glad I got this run completed today. Except now I am so tired, I really wish I could lay down and take a long nap. I am exhausted. I need a second wind.
It is working better to run in the afternoons right now. Rob did not mind taking a little bit longer of a lunch. It took me about 80 minutes. I did the same 8 mile route as last week. I did not feel as strong, but I did not feel overly fatigued either. I don't have pain anywhere...just don't feel like I can do the faster pace I did last week.
The high schools must have a half day because I saw tons of little groups of high schoolers unattended wandering around. Not a big deal, but some are downright annoying. I like high schoolers for the most part, but not when they yell at you or make comments when you are just trying to mind your own business and go running.
Thursday - Cross training?
I guess you could call it that. I walked home from MOPS at Bethany Baptist with the double stroller. Then we stopped at ILC and picked up Hailey from school. It was only about a mile and a half and honestly it was worse than running. That double stroller is awkward to push (especially up the Idylwood hill) and the curved sidewalks do not help. Plus it is a long walk for Hailey and Derek was pretty impatient. Was happy to reach our house at noon. The whole thing from start to finish (including waiting five minutes for Hailey) took an hour. Rob and I both need the car Thursday morning and so this is an ongoing issue. I am willing to walk this once in awhile.
Friday - Rest
I was going to do my 18 miler, but decided to clean the whole house instead. Too much to do before getting ready for the trip. I felt bad missing it, and hoping it doesn't set me back. I have been very consistent the last few weeks. I think I'll be OK.
Saturday - Rest
Traveled all day to Arizona. It is Sunday as I am writing this. If I end up running tonight I'll put it on with Week #12 or add to this entry. The break off from running is really good. For the first time in a long time, my muscles don't feel so fatigued and sore.
Sunday - Hiking
We did a fairly easy hike to the top of a huge cliff/mountain or whatever you want to call it. I had Kara on my back the whole time. It was so beautiful! I love the desert and the Southwest!!
Monday, October 4, 2010
Week #10
Monday - Group Power
Yes I finally got out bed and made it to Power. The place was packed! Never seen it that full on a Monday morning. I have been reading so much on Runner's World that cross training and weights are super important, but they have to less of a workout than running. Pour your energy into running. Since I also have not been at Power in three weeks, I kept my weight light. Also since Trena thinks she got injured at Power and had to drop out of her race, I am even more cautious. It was still a workout and I still struggled with some of the tracks. But I feel really good about it and know I worked the various muscle groups. I will probably push myself harder at Power and get to double the weight later this winter after the marathon is over.
Tuesday - Rest
I did not sleep very good. It was not because Kara got me up at midnight. She went right back down. I felt overly tired and my body was fatigued so I decided to rest today.
Wednesday - Group Power and ran 4 miles
I went to Power again and kept my weight the same. It was a good workout. Then I ran on the treadmill afterwards and got my pace up to 9.30. It was a great run. Although I do not like the treadmill, a break from the outdoors is nice once in awhile. Now that it is not getting light until 7:00 AM, I might have to do the majority of my cross training during the week at the gym and my longer runs on the weekend when Rob is home. I have the advantage that Rob takes Fridays off so often I can during the day on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. As long it fits into Rob's karate schedule and our family schedule. Unfortunately Kara woke up at 6 AM and Rob could not get her back down. She fell back asleep at 7 AM which is the time she usually wakes up. She has been a little feisty lately...we see her little personality starting to come out.
Thursday - Ran 4 miles
Kind of a busy morning. The kids were up super early. MOPS Steering meeting. Then pick up Hailey. Then pick up Rob's mom. I was really happy that Rob let me run during his lunch. He had a busy day too and he didn't have to do that. It was a great four miler on the regular route I have been doing. I felt strong. It is nice running in the afternoons with the mornings so dark now.
Friday - Ran 8 miles
I ran the Rees Hill loop and back on Sunnyside. Really good run and I know my pace was faster. I was really surprised I was done less than an hour and twenty minutes. Normally I do ten minute miles. I felt a little more tired than yesterday, but I was still able to complete everything. I only walked once for a minute to drink Ultima. Perfect running weather. High 50's and no rain. Glad I got this run in. Was not sure how it was going to work with it being a busier weekend.
Saturday - Rest
It was a really busy day with Trena's wedding and getting us all ready for that. I did not really plan on getting any cross training in so I was not overly disappointed when it did not happen.
Sunday - Ran 17 miles
I made it! I tried some new areas and loved running along Strong...very scenic and liked the overlook on the city. I allowed myself to walk up the steep hill on Landeu, but I ran up the whole thing! I walked very little aside from lights and I stopped at the bathroom at Lee Elementary. A few short walks here and there less than a minute. I discovered Salem Parks turned off their water fountains!! Thankfully I did not get too dehydrated. Originally I planned to fill up my water at Wes Bennet Park and Sumpter, but no water at either one. I knew I was doing OK though because I actually felt over hydrated at first. My routes will change now as I cannot stop at the park anymore.
Yes I finally got out bed and made it to Power. The place was packed! Never seen it that full on a Monday morning. I have been reading so much on Runner's World that cross training and weights are super important, but they have to less of a workout than running. Pour your energy into running. Since I also have not been at Power in three weeks, I kept my weight light. Also since Trena thinks she got injured at Power and had to drop out of her race, I am even more cautious. It was still a workout and I still struggled with some of the tracks. But I feel really good about it and know I worked the various muscle groups. I will probably push myself harder at Power and get to double the weight later this winter after the marathon is over.
Tuesday - Rest
I did not sleep very good. It was not because Kara got me up at midnight. She went right back down. I felt overly tired and my body was fatigued so I decided to rest today.
Wednesday - Group Power and ran 4 miles
I went to Power again and kept my weight the same. It was a good workout. Then I ran on the treadmill afterwards and got my pace up to 9.30. It was a great run. Although I do not like the treadmill, a break from the outdoors is nice once in awhile. Now that it is not getting light until 7:00 AM, I might have to do the majority of my cross training during the week at the gym and my longer runs on the weekend when Rob is home. I have the advantage that Rob takes Fridays off so often I can during the day on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. As long it fits into Rob's karate schedule and our family schedule. Unfortunately Kara woke up at 6 AM and Rob could not get her back down. She fell back asleep at 7 AM which is the time she usually wakes up. She has been a little feisty lately...we see her little personality starting to come out.
Thursday - Ran 4 miles
Kind of a busy morning. The kids were up super early. MOPS Steering meeting. Then pick up Hailey. Then pick up Rob's mom. I was really happy that Rob let me run during his lunch. He had a busy day too and he didn't have to do that. It was a great four miler on the regular route I have been doing. I felt strong. It is nice running in the afternoons with the mornings so dark now.
Friday - Ran 8 miles
I ran the Rees Hill loop and back on Sunnyside. Really good run and I know my pace was faster. I was really surprised I was done less than an hour and twenty minutes. Normally I do ten minute miles. I felt a little more tired than yesterday, but I was still able to complete everything. I only walked once for a minute to drink Ultima. Perfect running weather. High 50's and no rain. Glad I got this run in. Was not sure how it was going to work with it being a busier weekend.
Saturday - Rest
It was a really busy day with Trena's wedding and getting us all ready for that. I did not really plan on getting any cross training in so I was not overly disappointed when it did not happen.
Sunday - Ran 17 miles
I made it! I tried some new areas and loved running along Strong...very scenic and liked the overlook on the city. I allowed myself to walk up the steep hill on Landeu, but I ran up the whole thing! I walked very little aside from lights and I stopped at the bathroom at Lee Elementary. A few short walks here and there less than a minute. I discovered Salem Parks turned off their water fountains!! Thankfully I did not get too dehydrated. Originally I planned to fill up my water at Wes Bennet Park and Sumpter, but no water at either one. I knew I was doing OK though because I actually felt over hydrated at first. My routes will change now as I cannot stop at the park anymore.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Amy's current running goals
In many ways it has been a very good week. In other ways, it has been a rough week. I guess that applies to most weeks. I am doing really well will the running, but I have let the weights and cross training slide. My routine has been thrown off again and my motivation level down. So I thought I should set some goals to help me.
Goal #1 - To cross train at least once and do weights at least once (will really like to shoot for twice) each week for the next week two weeks.
We leave for Arizona in two weeks and I need to be consistent before we go. I have to do two major long runs - a 17 miler probably a week from tomorrow (maybe Friday...we'll see how it goes) and a 18 miler a week from Friday. Plus my 7 mile midweek run jumps to 8. My 4 mile routine run jumps to 5 after this week. Crazy amount of miles!!
Goal #2 - To run at least once in Arizona - I know a brief rest period is not going to set me back. When I trained for Portland I took almost a whole week off and missed one long run when we moved out here. I think I ran on a treadmill once in Utah, but that was about it. It did not set me back at all.
Goal # 3 - Drink more water during the day especially in the morning.
Then I have two goals for the actual marathon and we'll see if I add to them
Goal #1 - Stick with a pace. This was my biggest struggle with Portland. I started off way too fast and was dying by Mile #19. I should have kept with a slower pace. I am thinking of doing the 10 minute mile pacing group. If I kept with that pace, I would get a better time than I did in Portland.
Goal #2 - Try not let the mental part get to me as much. I'm going to try breathing exercises and stuff like that the night before the morning of so I don't freak out.
Goal #1 - To cross train at least once and do weights at least once (will really like to shoot for twice) each week for the next week two weeks.
We leave for Arizona in two weeks and I need to be consistent before we go. I have to do two major long runs - a 17 miler probably a week from tomorrow (maybe Friday...we'll see how it goes) and a 18 miler a week from Friday. Plus my 7 mile midweek run jumps to 8. My 4 mile routine run jumps to 5 after this week. Crazy amount of miles!!
Goal #2 - To run at least once in Arizona - I know a brief rest period is not going to set me back. When I trained for Portland I took almost a whole week off and missed one long run when we moved out here. I think I ran on a treadmill once in Utah, but that was about it. It did not set me back at all.
Goal # 3 - Drink more water during the day especially in the morning.
Then I have two goals for the actual marathon and we'll see if I add to them
Goal #1 - Stick with a pace. This was my biggest struggle with Portland. I started off way too fast and was dying by Mile #19. I should have kept with a slower pace. I am thinking of doing the 10 minute mile pacing group. If I kept with that pace, I would get a better time than I did in Portland.
Goal #2 - Try not let the mental part get to me as much. I'm going to try breathing exercises and stuff like that the night before the morning of so I don't freak out.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Week #9
Monday & Tuesday - Rest
Had planned to rest on Monday. Had not planned to rest on Tuesday as well. But it was not a bad thing. My body was pretty tired.
Wednesday - Ran 7 miles
I woke up early feeling refreshed. I was going to go to Power. Then I realized if I am feeling this awake and good, I should do the 7 miler today. For some reason it is tougher doing it on Thursdays because we tend to be busier Thursday mornings. This week I don't have anything, but usually there's MOPS or a MOPS leadership meeting or Rob needs the van right away. I am glad I chose to run because I felt so good the first few miles--like I was flying. Hardly felt like I was running. I felt really comfortable, hydrated, and enjoying the morning. I did the same route I did last week. Around Mile #6 my left ankle started acting up again. It's not major pain, but I am hoping it does not develop into some kind of injury. I might try icing it later today and see if that helps.
Had planned to rest on Monday. Had not planned to rest on Tuesday as well. But it was not a bad thing. My body was pretty tired.
Wednesday - Ran 7 miles
I woke up early feeling refreshed. I was going to go to Power. Then I realized if I am feeling this awake and good, I should do the 7 miler today. For some reason it is tougher doing it on Thursdays because we tend to be busier Thursday mornings. This week I don't have anything, but usually there's MOPS or a MOPS leadership meeting or Rob needs the van right away. I am glad I chose to run because I felt so good the first few miles--like I was flying. Hardly felt like I was running. I felt really comfortable, hydrated, and enjoying the morning. I did the same route I did last week. Around Mile #6 my left ankle started acting up again. It's not major pain, but I am hoping it does not develop into some kind of injury. I might try icing it later today and see if that helps.
Thursday - Ran 4 miles
Mornings stink. I don't know if it's the fact it's not even light until 7 AM or what. I woke up with a piercing headache. I was pretty sure it was due to dehydration because my appetite and stomach was normal. I am not drinking enough water during the day. Rob was dead after a three hour green belt test last night that was totally brutal. He passed and now has a green belt. They worked him so incredibly hard. He had muscle spasms during the night (I didn't know until the morning). What the heck are we doing to our bodies!?
Anyway I ran during Rob's lunch and ran Lone Oak to Browning to Commerical to Sunnyside to Boone and back to Lone Oak. A couple months ago the hills on Boone wiped me out and now they seem so easy. I don't think they are has steep as some of the hills I tackle on my long runs. I felt great. No dehydration or stomach issues. No ankle or knee pain. It is really hot this week like in the 80's which is great. Not going to last, but enjoying while we have it.
Saturday - Rest
Had plans to cross train in the morning, but that got tossed out the window. Kind of a rough morning. Here's hoping for a better rest of the day.
Sunday - Ran 11 miles
It is crazy that running 11 is a break. Not doing Portland next weekend is probably a blessing in disguise. My long runs are faster, stronger, and more enjoyable than earlier in the summer. I have loved the extra time to train. I can complete these runs and I don't feel like I am dying at the end. I am walking very little...just little breaks at parks to refill my water bottle or get gu. I ran up all the three big hills on my run and did not have to stop. I did a similar route to my long runs the last few weeks, but I cut out the Rees Hill portion and ran on Wiltsey and then the streets around my house. Was a nice run and the weather was perfect. I am loving the Oregon rain is taking its time to come.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Week #8
Monday & Tuesday - Rest
Planned on resting on Monday after the super long run on Sunday. Monday night went to Roths to study for my Small Animal Nursing exam and had a tall mocha. Big mistake. Not even close to being tired at 10 PM. Fell asleep around 11 and had a nightmare (or is it a night terror if it is right after I fell asleep?). This usually happens when I have caffeine after 8 PM. Could not fall back asleep. The people outside leaving the bar did not help. Was just about asleep and Kara woke up crying. She is either getting over a virus or teething or both and not sleeping as well. Thankfully she just needs her pacifier again and she's good to go back to sleep. Heard Derek kicking the wall in his sleep. Finally fell asleep around 1. Set the alarm and never turned it on so did not get up to run on Tuesday. Oh well. Another day of rest does not set me back too much.
Wednesday - Ran 4 miles
I went to bed by 10 but woke up really tired. Kara woke up just once at 3:30 AM and took her pacifier. Power and running felt like way too much for me this morning. I skipped Power and slept until 6:15 and then ran 4 miles. I did my three mile run and then added a mile by running to the end of the street and back. I did not feel terrible. Once I started running I felt OK. It was not my greatest run, but not my worst either.
Thursday - Ran 7 miles
Was pretty impressed I woke up refreshed and ready to run. I managed to get out the door around 5:55 AM. My plan was to get home by 7. It was more like 7:10. I was having digestion problems again around Mile #3 and had to stop at the Circle K and use the bathroom. I was glad to find this would be a good stopping point on future runs as the bathroom is in the back and it is clean. I liked the route I chose because it was in well lit areas and I saw several runners along the way. I did not have to run on Kuebler at all...just cross it twice. I felt good most of the run and strong at the end. Our morning was super crazy with getting ready for MOPS, school, and the field trip. The drop off/pick-off was crazy. I am glad we don't do this everyday or even every week. This is one the reasons I did not committ to coffee break or a lot of extra playdates this year.
Friday - Ran 4 miles
I wanted to do some hills so I ran Liberty to Mildred to Lone Oak to Arlene and looped around Wendy Kroger Park and then back home. The hills are pretty manageable. The Lone Oak hill is massive and I ran down it. I was worried about hurting my knees, but I think they are OK. It was a good run and I tried to pick up the pace a little bit in certain parts. The weather was great. I love this warm 70/80 weather. This is what fall is supposed to be like here! Unfortunately it is not supposed to last. It was a nice break running in the late afternoon too. I like the morning, but I also like sleeping a little later too.
Saturday - Cross Train - Eliptical 15 minutes, Bike 15 minutes
I have been a class dropout lately and have not gone to Power or Ride. I am trying not to be too hard on myself because I am a very busy person. The fact I am getting all my running in is an accomplishment for me in and of itself. I have been overwhelmed with the kids this week and my hormones are off balance again. I have had that "crazy" feeling all week and so irritable. So don't want to go the medication route. It's not depression and it's not anxiety...I feel like it is purely weird hormones.
Anyway I went to the Courthouse and worked out with the other five people that were in the gym on a Saturday late afternoon. The gym was dead. I did the eliptical for 15 minutes and the bike for 15 minutes. I pushed myself harder this time. It was a nice break from running and was happy with my workout.
Sunday - Ran 15 miles
Woo hoo! So strong today. I am loving these Sunday afternoons! The rain held off too and it was in the high 60's/low 70's. Perfect. Did the same route as last week, but I ran around Sumpter Park and stopped their as a second water bottle filler station. I also took two things of gu (had one at Commerical and Wiltsey and the second on Liberty by all those "K" streets when I had about two miles left). That seemed to help too. Instead of running my last two miles around the Denno's neighborhood I just kept going down Liberty and turned on Browning ending on Lone Oak.
And I was so strong on the uphills...even the massive hill on Shiloh and the one Landeu. I did not stop to walk at all. I only took brief walking breaks like less than a minute mostly to drink or take the gu.
I had a big breakfast, grazed the rest of the morning, and drank a full water bottle. That really seemed to help. I woke up with stomach problems and was ticked. Not again! Thankfully it was very, very minor and cleared up by 10 AM. Absolutely no stomach problems at all on my run. My left ankle started to hurt a little bit as well as my right knee around Mile #10 or #11 so I need to keep an eye on that. Nothing that seems overly serious.
Getting excited for Sacramento. This coming week is another Kick Back week.
Planned on resting on Monday after the super long run on Sunday. Monday night went to Roths to study for my Small Animal Nursing exam and had a tall mocha. Big mistake. Not even close to being tired at 10 PM. Fell asleep around 11 and had a nightmare (or is it a night terror if it is right after I fell asleep?). This usually happens when I have caffeine after 8 PM. Could not fall back asleep. The people outside leaving the bar did not help. Was just about asleep and Kara woke up crying. She is either getting over a virus or teething or both and not sleeping as well. Thankfully she just needs her pacifier again and she's good to go back to sleep. Heard Derek kicking the wall in his sleep. Finally fell asleep around 1. Set the alarm and never turned it on so did not get up to run on Tuesday. Oh well. Another day of rest does not set me back too much.
Wednesday - Ran 4 miles
I went to bed by 10 but woke up really tired. Kara woke up just once at 3:30 AM and took her pacifier. Power and running felt like way too much for me this morning. I skipped Power and slept until 6:15 and then ran 4 miles. I did my three mile run and then added a mile by running to the end of the street and back. I did not feel terrible. Once I started running I felt OK. It was not my greatest run, but not my worst either.
Thursday - Ran 7 miles
Was pretty impressed I woke up refreshed and ready to run. I managed to get out the door around 5:55 AM. My plan was to get home by 7. It was more like 7:10. I was having digestion problems again around Mile #3 and had to stop at the Circle K and use the bathroom. I was glad to find this would be a good stopping point on future runs as the bathroom is in the back and it is clean. I liked the route I chose because it was in well lit areas and I saw several runners along the way. I did not have to run on Kuebler at all...just cross it twice. I felt good most of the run and strong at the end. Our morning was super crazy with getting ready for MOPS, school, and the field trip. The drop off/pick-off was crazy. I am glad we don't do this everyday or even every week. This is one the reasons I did not committ to coffee break or a lot of extra playdates this year.
Friday - Ran 4 miles
I wanted to do some hills so I ran Liberty to Mildred to Lone Oak to Arlene and looped around Wendy Kroger Park and then back home. The hills are pretty manageable. The Lone Oak hill is massive and I ran down it. I was worried about hurting my knees, but I think they are OK. It was a good run and I tried to pick up the pace a little bit in certain parts. The weather was great. I love this warm 70/80 weather. This is what fall is supposed to be like here! Unfortunately it is not supposed to last. It was a nice break running in the late afternoon too. I like the morning, but I also like sleeping a little later too.
Saturday - Cross Train - Eliptical 15 minutes, Bike 15 minutes
I have been a class dropout lately and have not gone to Power or Ride. I am trying not to be too hard on myself because I am a very busy person. The fact I am getting all my running in is an accomplishment for me in and of itself. I have been overwhelmed with the kids this week and my hormones are off balance again. I have had that "crazy" feeling all week and so irritable. So don't want to go the medication route. It's not depression and it's not anxiety...I feel like it is purely weird hormones.
Anyway I went to the Courthouse and worked out with the other five people that were in the gym on a Saturday late afternoon. The gym was dead. I did the eliptical for 15 minutes and the bike for 15 minutes. I pushed myself harder this time. It was a nice break from running and was happy with my workout.
Sunday - Ran 15 miles
Woo hoo! So strong today. I am loving these Sunday afternoons! The rain held off too and it was in the high 60's/low 70's. Perfect. Did the same route as last week, but I ran around Sumpter Park and stopped their as a second water bottle filler station. I also took two things of gu (had one at Commerical and Wiltsey and the second on Liberty by all those "K" streets when I had about two miles left). That seemed to help too. Instead of running my last two miles around the Denno's neighborhood I just kept going down Liberty and turned on Browning ending on Lone Oak.
And I was so strong on the uphills...even the massive hill on Shiloh and the one Landeu. I did not stop to walk at all. I only took brief walking breaks like less than a minute mostly to drink or take the gu.
I had a big breakfast, grazed the rest of the morning, and drank a full water bottle. That really seemed to help. I woke up with stomach problems and was ticked. Not again! Thankfully it was very, very minor and cleared up by 10 AM. Absolutely no stomach problems at all on my run. My left ankle started to hurt a little bit as well as my right knee around Mile #10 or #11 so I need to keep an eye on that. Nothing that seems overly serious.
Getting excited for Sacramento. This coming week is another Kick Back week.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Week #7
Monday - Group Power and Run 4 miles
It is going to be a ton of running this week. Good to start it with a bang. I went to Power and it is amazing how rusty you get from missing two weeks. I kept my weight decreased on everything and was still challenged by it. I also ran four miles afterwards on the treadmill. Would rather run outside, but it was too dark out. I had to be home by 7:00 AM. I was back at 7:02 and Derek was just waking up. The whole new morning routine is different and I am trying to figure out the best way to go about doing it. We did not really establish a regular routine last week as Rob was gone and everything was chaotic. Right now it is what it is and I'm thankful I'm getting these workouts in.
Tuesday - Ran 7 miles
I think it is going to be another good running week! Let's hope so. Lots of miles to go. Anyway I had to run 7 and be home by 7:15 AM. It is very dark at 5:50 AM. I wore my reflector cap, my "Target light," and carried my cell phone. It started to get light around Mile #2. I ran in the well lit neighborhoods where a lot of the runners go. I ran the Sumpter Park neighborhood to Sunnyside to Wiltsey down Commerical and back ending with a mile on Kuebler to Boone to Liberty. I felt really good the whole run. I only stopped at the lights to refuel. I felt really energized. I think I am becoming more and more of a morning runner. It is going to be tough to do these long runs as the mornings keep getting darker.
Wednesday - Rest
My body needs a rest and our schedule is a little flip flopped this week with Rob being in Washington this weekend. I am probably going to end up doing my long run on Sunday which is not ideal. This week it makes the most sense. The long runs are getting "long" and Sunday afternoons give the longest block of time. I don't have to deal with it being dark out and it should not be overly hot. Once the rain hits (and I'm really hoping it holds off until November) it is going to be tough again. Running 18 miles in the rain sounds awful.
Anyway today is proving to be a stressful day and I kind of wish I did go running. Hailey is sick and staying home from school. She looks fatigued, pale, and exhausted. Derek is better than last week, but still a handful. And I am overwhelmed by other things. Glad next week is a little "lighter."
Thursday - Cross training - 15 minutes eliptical, 15 minutes bike
Happy birthday, Hailey! Ok the alarm went off at 4:48 AM and I was awake. I even woke up a few minutes before. I love the fact my body is "on a schedule" and I am waking up on my own. This makes me feel really good. The deal with cross training: I want it to be "break" from running. I still want it to be exercise, but not as intense as running. Obviously I want to pour more of my energy into running. I was reading a good article about this in Runners World. Yes, I read a lot of RW while Rob was in Boston. Trena was even telling me she pushed herself so hard in cross training (doing squats) that she feels like that is where she injured herself. She is still recovering from it. So as much I love Group Ride, I don't want to do it as my cross training every week. It's intense, tough, an hour long, and almost as challening for me as a regular run...sometimes I think it is more so. So I tried fifteen minutes on the eliptical today and fifteen minutes on the break. I know I worked hard because I was sweating a lot and I could feel like I worked my legs pretty hard. It was nice to be at the gym for a shorter period of time and be home before 7. I do miss the group atmosphere which is why I still might do "Ride" from time to time. For today, I am happy with my workout.
Friday - Ran 4 Miles
I had a really good run this afternoon. It was a little rainy, but not too bad. I probably should have ran in the morning as it would not have made my afternoon so full. I did enjoy sleeping in a little. I did a route similar to when I trained for Portland, but I avoided running on Kuebler since I hate running on such a busy road. I ran Lone Oak to Valleywood to Sunnyside to Idylwood to Jones back to Lone Oak. Nice route. My new shoes felt great.
Saturday - Rest
Was a busy day. Rob was in Zillah all day for Classis. They left at 4 AM and got back home shortly after 9 PM. Hailey and Derek were at VB's house in the morning and I got a lot done between 10 AM and 12:30 PM. Then I dropped Kara off at the VB's house and went with Trena to her shower. Back to VB's and back home by 6 PM. Kind of a lot for a day especially without Rob. Kara was running a fever. Pretty sure it's related to a cold. No throwing up or anything. Her appetite is fine. She is just lethargic.
Sunday - Ran 14 miles
Yay! I totally did it. And it went well. I daresay parts of it I enjoyed. I did my 12 mile route, but detoured to Wes Bennet park which served as a great "refueling station." Filled my water bottle there. I also ran up Valleywood through the Sumpter neighborhood on the way home. I also ran up Kashmir for the last mile and a half and through that neighborhood. Not sure I will do that again because the hills were super steep. I was not expecting that at all and I could not make it up all of them.
I did not feel as dehydrated this time. I ate a regular breakfast and grazed all morning. I tried to drink a whole water bottle before noon. It seemed to help. I went through two water bottles during the whole run.
It helps to break the run into parts. I used to see the long runs as mile by mile. Now I see them as sections such as the Sumpter section, the Battlecreek Section, the Rees Hill section etc. It helps me feel like I accomlish something when I exit one area and enter the next.
I also walked very little which surprised me. My endurance was strong. I walked up half the Baxter hill and walked 1-2 minutes each of the last few miles. I stopped at the bus stop on Fairway to take the gu and it helped a ton. I think I should take two packs next time.
It is kind of crazy that this would be my longest run if I were training for the 5/3 Riverbank run. I am only on Week #7. I have to do 11 more long runs and some will be even longer. I feel confident I can do it. Today went so well and it was good to be out.
It is going to be a ton of running this week. Good to start it with a bang. I went to Power and it is amazing how rusty you get from missing two weeks. I kept my weight decreased on everything and was still challenged by it. I also ran four miles afterwards on the treadmill. Would rather run outside, but it was too dark out. I had to be home by 7:00 AM. I was back at 7:02 and Derek was just waking up. The whole new morning routine is different and I am trying to figure out the best way to go about doing it. We did not really establish a regular routine last week as Rob was gone and everything was chaotic. Right now it is what it is and I'm thankful I'm getting these workouts in.
Tuesday - Ran 7 miles
I think it is going to be another good running week! Let's hope so. Lots of miles to go. Anyway I had to run 7 and be home by 7:15 AM. It is very dark at 5:50 AM. I wore my reflector cap, my "Target light," and carried my cell phone. It started to get light around Mile #2. I ran in the well lit neighborhoods where a lot of the runners go. I ran the Sumpter Park neighborhood to Sunnyside to Wiltsey down Commerical and back ending with a mile on Kuebler to Boone to Liberty. I felt really good the whole run. I only stopped at the lights to refuel. I felt really energized. I think I am becoming more and more of a morning runner. It is going to be tough to do these long runs as the mornings keep getting darker.
Wednesday - Rest
My body needs a rest and our schedule is a little flip flopped this week with Rob being in Washington this weekend. I am probably going to end up doing my long run on Sunday which is not ideal. This week it makes the most sense. The long runs are getting "long" and Sunday afternoons give the longest block of time. I don't have to deal with it being dark out and it should not be overly hot. Once the rain hits (and I'm really hoping it holds off until November) it is going to be tough again. Running 18 miles in the rain sounds awful.
Anyway today is proving to be a stressful day and I kind of wish I did go running. Hailey is sick and staying home from school. She looks fatigued, pale, and exhausted. Derek is better than last week, but still a handful. And I am overwhelmed by other things. Glad next week is a little "lighter."
Thursday - Cross training - 15 minutes eliptical, 15 minutes bike
Happy birthday, Hailey! Ok the alarm went off at 4:48 AM and I was awake. I even woke up a few minutes before. I love the fact my body is "on a schedule" and I am waking up on my own. This makes me feel really good. The deal with cross training: I want it to be "break" from running. I still want it to be exercise, but not as intense as running. Obviously I want to pour more of my energy into running. I was reading a good article about this in Runners World. Yes, I read a lot of RW while Rob was in Boston. Trena was even telling me she pushed herself so hard in cross training (doing squats) that she feels like that is where she injured herself. She is still recovering from it. So as much I love Group Ride, I don't want to do it as my cross training every week. It's intense, tough, an hour long, and almost as challening for me as a regular run...sometimes I think it is more so. So I tried fifteen minutes on the eliptical today and fifteen minutes on the break. I know I worked hard because I was sweating a lot and I could feel like I worked my legs pretty hard. It was nice to be at the gym for a shorter period of time and be home before 7. I do miss the group atmosphere which is why I still might do "Ride" from time to time. For today, I am happy with my workout.
Friday - Ran 4 Miles
I had a really good run this afternoon. It was a little rainy, but not too bad. I probably should have ran in the morning as it would not have made my afternoon so full. I did enjoy sleeping in a little. I did a route similar to when I trained for Portland, but I avoided running on Kuebler since I hate running on such a busy road. I ran Lone Oak to Valleywood to Sunnyside to Idylwood to Jones back to Lone Oak. Nice route. My new shoes felt great.
Saturday - Rest
Was a busy day. Rob was in Zillah all day for Classis. They left at 4 AM and got back home shortly after 9 PM. Hailey and Derek were at VB's house in the morning and I got a lot done between 10 AM and 12:30 PM. Then I dropped Kara off at the VB's house and went with Trena to her shower. Back to VB's and back home by 6 PM. Kind of a lot for a day especially without Rob. Kara was running a fever. Pretty sure it's related to a cold. No throwing up or anything. Her appetite is fine. She is just lethargic.
Sunday - Ran 14 miles
Yay! I totally did it. And it went well. I daresay parts of it I enjoyed. I did my 12 mile route, but detoured to Wes Bennet park which served as a great "refueling station." Filled my water bottle there. I also ran up Valleywood through the Sumpter neighborhood on the way home. I also ran up Kashmir for the last mile and a half and through that neighborhood. Not sure I will do that again because the hills were super steep. I was not expecting that at all and I could not make it up all of them.
I did not feel as dehydrated this time. I ate a regular breakfast and grazed all morning. I tried to drink a whole water bottle before noon. It seemed to help. I went through two water bottles during the whole run.
It helps to break the run into parts. I used to see the long runs as mile by mile. Now I see them as sections such as the Sumpter section, the Battlecreek Section, the Rees Hill section etc. It helps me feel like I accomlish something when I exit one area and enter the next.
I also walked very little which surprised me. My endurance was strong. I walked up half the Baxter hill and walked 1-2 minutes each of the last few miles. I stopped at the bus stop on Fairway to take the gu and it helped a ton. I think I should take two packs next time.
It is kind of crazy that this would be my longest run if I were training for the 5/3 Riverbank run. I am only on Week #7. I have to do 11 more long runs and some will be even longer. I feel confident I can do it. Today went so well and it was good to be out.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Week #6
Monday - 3 Miles
Happy Labor Day! The kids let me sleep until 7:30 AM. Kind of funny that is sleeping in. I ran around 9:30 AM since Rob is only working an hour today and from home. I did my regular three mile route to Ewald. The weather was perfect with a slight chill in the air. I was pretty comfortable aside from some soreness. I wore my new shoes for the first time and they feel strange and flat. These are the shoes I hope to wear in Sacramento. I need to break them in first and make sure they are giving me enough support. I probably going to rotate my shoes with each workout.
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday - Rest
I knew exercising would not happen with Rob away. I was reading a good article in Runner's World about the importance of rest and how "rest" is training too. Thought of that as I was not doing any form of exercise and missing it.
Wow it has been a hard week with Rob gone. I knew it would be tough, but never imagined it would be this wearing. Never imagined I would on the verge of emotional breakdown so often and Derek would be so crazy. I feel like I handled it better with communicating to Rob how it is going. I do not hold it against him because I really wanted him to go this conference and I was happy to make it happen. It has just been an exhausting week and been tough in so many ways. Makes me think we are crazy for living so far from family and not sure those feelings will ever change.
Friday - Ran 3 Miles
Trena came over for a half hour. Worked out well. She read Hailey's library books to her. Kara napped and Derek played in his room. He did not nap today, but he stayed in his room almost the whole time. I ran the same square I ran on Sunday. It felt good to run. I was happy to get out and it was beautiful out. Since my mind is "off" along with my emotions, I was not fully there. I could not enjoy it as much as I normally would. I am glad I got out there nonetheless and thankful Trena could help me out.
Saturday - Rest
Could not get out and run. Today went better with the kids. I took them apple picking and out to the Mc Donalds on the Salem Parkway. Hailey even played by herself for 45 minutes so I could take a nap. Derek and Kara slept all afternoon.
Sunday - Ran 9 Miles
Tough run. How much easier it was to run 12 last week and only 9 today. Kind of crazy. I did the same route I did last week only I turned right on Commercial and went towards Woodmansee instead of going the Rees Hill route. That shaves off three miles. I felt dehydrated the whole run. I was constantly craving water and I ran out way too soon. I need to detour around Wes Bennet Park and stop at the drinking fountain next time. I was just under a time crunch today. I had side aches at times. I felt way too hot. It was in the low 80's, but not used to running in the heat. It's been a couple weeks since I have done it. I walked up half the hill on Landeu. I also detoured through Woodmansee and walked through most of it. I was going to cut through the trails. Then I got lost. I ended up right in the middle of someone's Frisbee Golf game. I made it to the Judson Middle School football field and ran most of the of the way home. Might have been slightly under 9 miles today, but I am going to sweat it. Kind of hoping for better running later in the week. Today was not as fun.
Happy Labor Day! The kids let me sleep until 7:30 AM. Kind of funny that is sleeping in. I ran around 9:30 AM since Rob is only working an hour today and from home. I did my regular three mile route to Ewald. The weather was perfect with a slight chill in the air. I was pretty comfortable aside from some soreness. I wore my new shoes for the first time and they feel strange and flat. These are the shoes I hope to wear in Sacramento. I need to break them in first and make sure they are giving me enough support. I probably going to rotate my shoes with each workout.
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday - Rest
I knew exercising would not happen with Rob away. I was reading a good article in Runner's World about the importance of rest and how "rest" is training too. Thought of that as I was not doing any form of exercise and missing it.
Wow it has been a hard week with Rob gone. I knew it would be tough, but never imagined it would be this wearing. Never imagined I would on the verge of emotional breakdown so often and Derek would be so crazy. I feel like I handled it better with communicating to Rob how it is going. I do not hold it against him because I really wanted him to go this conference and I was happy to make it happen. It has just been an exhausting week and been tough in so many ways. Makes me think we are crazy for living so far from family and not sure those feelings will ever change.
Friday - Ran 3 Miles
Trena came over for a half hour. Worked out well. She read Hailey's library books to her. Kara napped and Derek played in his room. He did not nap today, but he stayed in his room almost the whole time. I ran the same square I ran on Sunday. It felt good to run. I was happy to get out and it was beautiful out. Since my mind is "off" along with my emotions, I was not fully there. I could not enjoy it as much as I normally would. I am glad I got out there nonetheless and thankful Trena could help me out.
Saturday - Rest
Could not get out and run. Today went better with the kids. I took them apple picking and out to the Mc Donalds on the Salem Parkway. Hailey even played by herself for 45 minutes so I could take a nap. Derek and Kara slept all afternoon.
Sunday - Ran 9 Miles
Tough run. How much easier it was to run 12 last week and only 9 today. Kind of crazy. I did the same route I did last week only I turned right on Commercial and went towards Woodmansee instead of going the Rees Hill route. That shaves off three miles. I felt dehydrated the whole run. I was constantly craving water and I ran out way too soon. I need to detour around Wes Bennet Park and stop at the drinking fountain next time. I was just under a time crunch today. I had side aches at times. I felt way too hot. It was in the low 80's, but not used to running in the heat. It's been a couple weeks since I have done it. I walked up half the hill on Landeu. I also detoured through Woodmansee and walked through most of it. I was going to cut through the trails. Then I got lost. I ended up right in the middle of someone's Frisbee Golf game. I made it to the Judson Middle School football field and ran most of the of the way home. Might have been slightly under 9 miles today, but I am going to sweat it. Kind of hoping for better running later in the week. Today was not as fun.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Week #5
I knew the energy from last week was not going to last. It is Tuesday as I am writing this. This is how I am feeling: tired, fatigue, headache, unmotivated, irritatable, and pessimistic. I don't know why I am tired since I have been going to bed by 10 PM (and some nights even earlier!) and our schedule has been lighter. I really want to get out of this. I honestly feel like I could sleep for a few hours. When I put Derek down for his afternoon nap, it was tempting to crawl into his warm, cuddly bed with him.
Sunday - Rest
Technically I did a little bit of cross training as we hiked the South Falls at the church picnic. I had Kara on my back. It was not a grueling workout, and it was nice to get some hiking in.
Monday - Rest
I wanted to get up, but I could not. Major fatigue. Had high hopes of running later in the day, but it did not work out schedule wise. I could not go to the gym in the evening because I had to finish my article for the Banner. I was not too excited about running on the treadmill anyway.
Tuesday - Ran 3 Miles
Woke up unmotivated and fatigued again. Once I got running, I felt wonderful. I did my regular three mile run to Ewald. It felt great. Except most of the run I remembered I was supposed to go to the Dollar Tree last night and pick up baskets for VBS follow-up. I already put this off enough and Margie was coming over to assemble the baskets at 10 AM. I spent most of the run figuring out how I was going to get everyone ready, still get Kara down for a morning nap, take a shower, and get to Dollar Tree. The task seems much bigger than it actually is. We got everything done with a lot of time to spare. I feel like I cannot keep up with everything this week and this schedule or the laundry is going to eat me alive. Rob and I have had invites for Labor Day weekend and honestly we feel like being hermits and staying home. I know I can run six miles tomorrow with no problems. It is just the task of getting up and getting out the door that overwhelms me.
Wednesday - Ran 6 Miles
Bleck. What is up with this week!? I got out of bed at 6:30 AM. Barely. Sinus headache. Dehydrated. I did a new route which was a shorter version of my 11 mile route from Friday. The first few miles it was a "spitty rain." I am not ready for the rain yet. It is way too early for it. Can it please hold off for awhile!? The air is still warm so I did not feel too uncomfortable. There was a strong head wind. I really felt like turning around after Mile #1 and crawling back into bed. I felt like I could have slept another hour or two. By Mile #3 I felt a little bit better. I hate running on Kuebler. That was the most miserable part. But the back roads on Boone and Barnes and Stroh were nice. I only stopped at the lights to refuel. I was going to stop and walk a couple times, but I really just wanted to be done. Derek had already been in time out by the time I got home. The kids are "really off" from the weather change and most of us have mild colds. I am not ready for this. What happened to our beautiful Oregon autumn? We're supposed to be have a beautiful Labor Day weekend and I am holding the weather people accountable for this one.
Thursday - Group Ride
Ok...better morning. Perhaps a better day? Alarm went off at 4:50 AM and I was ready to go. I did not have as much desire to go back to sleep. The gym I work out at is now offering a morning biking class for regular cyclists or beginners. The other class they offer which is now bumped to Monday, Wednesday, and Friday is more for bike racers and triathletes. Today was the first day. It was similar to the past couple group ride classes I have gone to. I was excited that Jen was subbing because I really like her. For some reason over half the class were employees. They were all going out for breakfast afterwards and I almost wished I could have gone with. :) The workout was really good. I am still learning how to do all the gears and what not. But it is great cross training. Got home by 6:20 and got a bunch of reading done for my Small Animal Nursing class before Kara woke up. So nice to be ahead of the game today. I really need that after a rough start to the week.
Friday - Rest
Today kind of stunk. I was ready to get up and run. I got stomach problems again. I felt them coming on last night so I was not overly surprised. Something I must have eaten again. Not nearly as bad as two weeks ago, but I did not want to try and run 12 miles with it. If it were a shorter run, I would have gone. I could not make Group Power. I was going to try go to the 5 PM class, but today was the day we planned on doing VBS follow-up. Margie and I did get back until close to 5. The kids drove me absolutely nuts today and I enjoyed the long afternoon break from them. I could tell they were driving Rob crazy too when I got home. I love them to pieces, but they have been having an "off" week too. I was not at my best today. I can fully admit to that. It has been a really challenging week for me. I do not know if it is the changing of the seasons or hormones or what. I really miss the motivation I had the last two weeks. Rob has been tired all week long. Derek has been a wreck the two days he skipped his naps. Kara has been fighting naps too. Hailey seems to be doing the best around here. Maybe she can spread it to the rest of us tomorrow.
Saturday - 12 miles
Bad week. Good day. Great run. I started around 12:45 PM and got home closer to 3:00 PM. I was going to go in the morning, but Kara got up at 6:30 AM. Since we did not have anything in the afternoon and the weather is absolutely perfect (low 70's) I went in the afternoon. I did a similar route to last week, but I added a mile of course. I love the Battlecreek neighborhood. I had three people cheer me on! I stopped at my gym which is probably about Mile #6 or #7 to fill up my water bottle. I took three short walking breaks probably 1 -2 minutes and they were in the last half of the run. I am learning the art of walking before you are totally exhausted and getting the run/walk rhytmn down.
Sunday - 3 miles
The nice sunny days are such a huge motivation to go out and run. The weather was absolutely perfect again! Aside from being a little sore from yesterday, the run went great. I figured out that Hrubetz to Lone Oak to Holder to Liberty and back to Hrubetz is a three mile sqaure. The hills are not too bad. This next week is a kick back week so my long run is shorter. Because of the conference Rob is going to, I am not going to be able to go to Group Power or Group Ride. I should be able to run four times though between now and next Sunday. Hailey also starts school this week so that will shake up the schedule too. After next week, my mileage increases significantly--3 mile runs become 4, 6 mile runs become 7, and my long will be at 14. But I think I am ready for it. I am glad though I get a kick back week especially since Rob is going to be gone a good part of it.
Sunday - Rest
Technically I did a little bit of cross training as we hiked the South Falls at the church picnic. I had Kara on my back. It was not a grueling workout, and it was nice to get some hiking in.
Monday - Rest
I wanted to get up, but I could not. Major fatigue. Had high hopes of running later in the day, but it did not work out schedule wise. I could not go to the gym in the evening because I had to finish my article for the Banner. I was not too excited about running on the treadmill anyway.
Tuesday - Ran 3 Miles
Woke up unmotivated and fatigued again. Once I got running, I felt wonderful. I did my regular three mile run to Ewald. It felt great. Except most of the run I remembered I was supposed to go to the Dollar Tree last night and pick up baskets for VBS follow-up. I already put this off enough and Margie was coming over to assemble the baskets at 10 AM. I spent most of the run figuring out how I was going to get everyone ready, still get Kara down for a morning nap, take a shower, and get to Dollar Tree. The task seems much bigger than it actually is. We got everything done with a lot of time to spare. I feel like I cannot keep up with everything this week and this schedule or the laundry is going to eat me alive. Rob and I have had invites for Labor Day weekend and honestly we feel like being hermits and staying home. I know I can run six miles tomorrow with no problems. It is just the task of getting up and getting out the door that overwhelms me.
Wednesday - Ran 6 Miles
Bleck. What is up with this week!? I got out of bed at 6:30 AM. Barely. Sinus headache. Dehydrated. I did a new route which was a shorter version of my 11 mile route from Friday. The first few miles it was a "spitty rain." I am not ready for the rain yet. It is way too early for it. Can it please hold off for awhile!? The air is still warm so I did not feel too uncomfortable. There was a strong head wind. I really felt like turning around after Mile #1 and crawling back into bed. I felt like I could have slept another hour or two. By Mile #3 I felt a little bit better. I hate running on Kuebler. That was the most miserable part. But the back roads on Boone and Barnes and Stroh were nice. I only stopped at the lights to refuel. I was going to stop and walk a couple times, but I really just wanted to be done. Derek had already been in time out by the time I got home. The kids are "really off" from the weather change and most of us have mild colds. I am not ready for this. What happened to our beautiful Oregon autumn? We're supposed to be have a beautiful Labor Day weekend and I am holding the weather people accountable for this one.
Thursday - Group Ride
Ok...better morning. Perhaps a better day? Alarm went off at 4:50 AM and I was ready to go. I did not have as much desire to go back to sleep. The gym I work out at is now offering a morning biking class for regular cyclists or beginners. The other class they offer which is now bumped to Monday, Wednesday, and Friday is more for bike racers and triathletes. Today was the first day. It was similar to the past couple group ride classes I have gone to. I was excited that Jen was subbing because I really like her. For some reason over half the class were employees. They were all going out for breakfast afterwards and I almost wished I could have gone with. :) The workout was really good. I am still learning how to do all the gears and what not. But it is great cross training. Got home by 6:20 and got a bunch of reading done for my Small Animal Nursing class before Kara woke up. So nice to be ahead of the game today. I really need that after a rough start to the week.
Friday - Rest
Today kind of stunk. I was ready to get up and run. I got stomach problems again. I felt them coming on last night so I was not overly surprised. Something I must have eaten again. Not nearly as bad as two weeks ago, but I did not want to try and run 12 miles with it. If it were a shorter run, I would have gone. I could not make Group Power. I was going to try go to the 5 PM class, but today was the day we planned on doing VBS follow-up. Margie and I did get back until close to 5. The kids drove me absolutely nuts today and I enjoyed the long afternoon break from them. I could tell they were driving Rob crazy too when I got home. I love them to pieces, but they have been having an "off" week too. I was not at my best today. I can fully admit to that. It has been a really challenging week for me. I do not know if it is the changing of the seasons or hormones or what. I really miss the motivation I had the last two weeks. Rob has been tired all week long. Derek has been a wreck the two days he skipped his naps. Kara has been fighting naps too. Hailey seems to be doing the best around here. Maybe she can spread it to the rest of us tomorrow.
Saturday - 12 miles
Bad week. Good day. Great run. I started around 12:45 PM and got home closer to 3:00 PM. I was going to go in the morning, but Kara got up at 6:30 AM. Since we did not have anything in the afternoon and the weather is absolutely perfect (low 70's) I went in the afternoon. I did a similar route to last week, but I added a mile of course. I love the Battlecreek neighborhood. I had three people cheer me on! I stopped at my gym which is probably about Mile #6 or #7 to fill up my water bottle. I took three short walking breaks probably 1 -2 minutes and they were in the last half of the run. I am learning the art of walking before you are totally exhausted and getting the run/walk rhytmn down.
Sunday - 3 miles
The nice sunny days are such a huge motivation to go out and run. The weather was absolutely perfect again! Aside from being a little sore from yesterday, the run went great. I figured out that Hrubetz to Lone Oak to Holder to Liberty and back to Hrubetz is a three mile sqaure. The hills are not too bad. This next week is a kick back week so my long run is shorter. Because of the conference Rob is going to, I am not going to be able to go to Group Power or Group Ride. I should be able to run four times though between now and next Sunday. Hailey also starts school this week so that will shake up the schedule too. After next week, my mileage increases significantly--3 mile runs become 4, 6 mile runs become 7, and my long will be at 14. But I think I am ready for it. I am glad though I get a kick back week especially since Rob is going to be gone a good part of it.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Week #4
Monday - Group Power and Ran 3 Miles
Made it to Power. I am happy they are still doing Summer Launch because I am pretty used to the tracks. My upper thighs are not nearly as sore from all the squats. I did not feel any major pain or soreness. I do need to increase my weight though on the squats track because it is not challenging enough. All the other tracks seem to be fine. I struggled with the chest track today, but that seems to be one of my hardest.
My hardest battle is getting out of bed. Once I get there and get going, I feel great. Once I get home and start my day, I have energy. I am upbeat, sing to the radio, less irritated by one of the kids making a mess or fighting, etc. Like I said, the battle is waking up at the crack of dawn.
I also ran three miles on the treadmill at the gym. I did the 5K track and slowly increased my speed to about 6.5. I don't know how often I can do the Group Power and running in one shot. I left the house at 5 AM and was home at 7 AM. That is a long time to be away working out. Kara had been up for ten minutes and Derek was waking up. For some reason they are getting up slightly before 7 again, but they were sleeping until 8 consistently for a couple weeks. Oh well. I really don't mind because they all sleep through the night and I get my sleep too.
Tuesday - Ran 6 Miles
Really wanted to get up early so I could do some writing or studying before the kids wake up. It's the daily battle. I got out of bed just after 6 AM. I made up a route on most of the main roads - Kuebler, Sunnyside, Commercial. Aside from the long light at Kuebler, it was a good route. I would do it again. There was a few uphills, but not big ones. There is a huge downhill on Wiltsey. I honestly felt great through the whole run--from when I started running past my driveway until I got home. That was refreshing. Kara is still getting up around 6:45 AM or so. It is easier if she sleeps until 7:30 AM or so. This might happen once it is darker in the mornings. I cannot really complain because she has been napping so well and sleeping through the night.
Wednesday - Group Power
Been pretty motivated lately and feeling upbeat. So it was not a battle to get up this morning and go to Power. I struggled on the chest track and abs/core track for some reason. Everything else was good. The legs tracks are my best, but that makes sense with all the running I do. I got back home around 6:25 and was hoping to get some writing done before the kids woke up. Derek woke up at 6:37 so that was idea did not happen. Derek and later Hailey sat on the patio and watched the sun rise. That was very sweet.
Thursday - Ran 3 Miles
I ran my regular three mile route to Ewald at 6:15 AM. The sun is starting to rise later and later which makes me wonder how these morning runs are going to work. Guess I will figure that out when it is pitch black at 6 AM. Right now it's not. It was a good run. Nothing major to report. I felt like my pace was faster and I enjoyed it. Wish I would have gotten up earlier so I could get some writing done. Hailey and Derek slept until 7:30 AM and Kara until 8:45 AM so I did get some things done. We were not in a mad rush all morning to get to the MOPS event.
Friday - Ran 11 miles
Yay! I got out of bed around 6 and was out the door by around 6:18 AM. I tried a new route going through a large part of the Battlecreek neighborhood. It was a great route except I missed a turn at one point. I think my mileage was still the same because I got back to the main road. I need to look back at the map and see what happened. The hills were fine. There were quite a few, but most of them rolling. The steep one was actually a downhill on Reed or Barnes (can't remember which street). I would do the route again. The hardest part for me was the 9 - 10 mile. I started to get fatigued. I drank a whole water bottle and a half of Ultima and I know that is helping. I think when I trained for Portland four years ago, I let myself get too dehydrated. Someone said "Good job" to me around Mile #9. I wonder if I looked like I had been running for the past hour and a half. Probably. I was pretty wiped out by that point. When I have a week like when I am intention about my workouts, it is goes so much better. I feel better. I have more energy. It's all around a good thing.
Saturday - Group Ride
Went to the 8 AM Group Ride. Aside from the fact I do not have much bicycling experience, I do enjoy it as a cross training option. I know if I were to do the bike on my own in the cardio room, I would not really push myself. I would probably quit after fifteen minutes. The fifty minute class challenges me. I break a sweat and feel like I pushed myself. I do not understand the "turns" and "hills" and everything else, but I am starting to get it. I do not push myself as some of the die hard bikers because it is my cross training. Cross training is supposed to be a little bit of a break in a way. I would like to continue going once a week if I can fit in the schedule. I like it better than swimming so far.
Great week of exercise!!
Made it to Power. I am happy they are still doing Summer Launch because I am pretty used to the tracks. My upper thighs are not nearly as sore from all the squats. I did not feel any major pain or soreness. I do need to increase my weight though on the squats track because it is not challenging enough. All the other tracks seem to be fine. I struggled with the chest track today, but that seems to be one of my hardest.
My hardest battle is getting out of bed. Once I get there and get going, I feel great. Once I get home and start my day, I have energy. I am upbeat, sing to the radio, less irritated by one of the kids making a mess or fighting, etc. Like I said, the battle is waking up at the crack of dawn.
I also ran three miles on the treadmill at the gym. I did the 5K track and slowly increased my speed to about 6.5. I don't know how often I can do the Group Power and running in one shot. I left the house at 5 AM and was home at 7 AM. That is a long time to be away working out. Kara had been up for ten minutes and Derek was waking up. For some reason they are getting up slightly before 7 again, but they were sleeping until 8 consistently for a couple weeks. Oh well. I really don't mind because they all sleep through the night and I get my sleep too.
Tuesday - Ran 6 Miles
Really wanted to get up early so I could do some writing or studying before the kids wake up. It's the daily battle. I got out of bed just after 6 AM. I made up a route on most of the main roads - Kuebler, Sunnyside, Commercial. Aside from the long light at Kuebler, it was a good route. I would do it again. There was a few uphills, but not big ones. There is a huge downhill on Wiltsey. I honestly felt great through the whole run--from when I started running past my driveway until I got home. That was refreshing. Kara is still getting up around 6:45 AM or so. It is easier if she sleeps until 7:30 AM or so. This might happen once it is darker in the mornings. I cannot really complain because she has been napping so well and sleeping through the night.
Wednesday - Group Power
Been pretty motivated lately and feeling upbeat. So it was not a battle to get up this morning and go to Power. I struggled on the chest track and abs/core track for some reason. Everything else was good. The legs tracks are my best, but that makes sense with all the running I do. I got back home around 6:25 and was hoping to get some writing done before the kids woke up. Derek woke up at 6:37 so that was idea did not happen. Derek and later Hailey sat on the patio and watched the sun rise. That was very sweet.
Thursday - Ran 3 Miles
I ran my regular three mile route to Ewald at 6:15 AM. The sun is starting to rise later and later which makes me wonder how these morning runs are going to work. Guess I will figure that out when it is pitch black at 6 AM. Right now it's not. It was a good run. Nothing major to report. I felt like my pace was faster and I enjoyed it. Wish I would have gotten up earlier so I could get some writing done. Hailey and Derek slept until 7:30 AM and Kara until 8:45 AM so I did get some things done. We were not in a mad rush all morning to get to the MOPS event.
Friday - Ran 11 miles
Yay! I got out of bed around 6 and was out the door by around 6:18 AM. I tried a new route going through a large part of the Battlecreek neighborhood. It was a great route except I missed a turn at one point. I think my mileage was still the same because I got back to the main road. I need to look back at the map and see what happened. The hills were fine. There were quite a few, but most of them rolling. The steep one was actually a downhill on Reed or Barnes (can't remember which street). I would do the route again. The hardest part for me was the 9 - 10 mile. I started to get fatigued. I drank a whole water bottle and a half of Ultima and I know that is helping. I think when I trained for Portland four years ago, I let myself get too dehydrated. Someone said "Good job" to me around Mile #9. I wonder if I looked like I had been running for the past hour and a half. Probably. I was pretty wiped out by that point. When I have a week like when I am intention about my workouts, it is goes so much better. I feel better. I have more energy. It's all around a good thing.
Saturday - Group Ride
Went to the 8 AM Group Ride. Aside from the fact I do not have much bicycling experience, I do enjoy it as a cross training option. I know if I were to do the bike on my own in the cardio room, I would not really push myself. I would probably quit after fifteen minutes. The fifty minute class challenges me. I break a sweat and feel like I pushed myself. I do not understand the "turns" and "hills" and everything else, but I am starting to get it. I do not push myself as some of the die hard bikers because it is my cross training. Cross training is supposed to be a little bit of a break in a way. I would like to continue going once a week if I can fit in the schedule. I like it better than swimming so far.
Great week of exercise!!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Week #3
Monday - Ran 3 miles
I ran later than usual around 7:15 PM. Rob was OK with it and told me to go ahead. I did my normal three mile route to Ewald. Aside from feeling sore from yesterday's run, it was fine. It was the last spell of the heat wave and I could already tell we were going to hit 90. The air was cooler and perfect, but as I got home I was starting to feel warm and sweaty.
Tuesday - Rest
I decided to take the day off from running. I was pretty sore from from the last two days. We got home from Noordams around 10 PM Monday night. After being in the pool and sun all afternoon and evening, we were worn out. It was hard for both Rob and I to get up. The kids had no problem getting up at 7 AM even though they went to bed two hours past their bedtime. Isn't that the way it goes?
Wednesday - Ran 5 miles
Again it was hard to get up because I got home from Faber's at 10:15 PM last night. My schedule is not usually like this. I love the extra time with friends this week, but it is pretty tough to get up in the morning. Derek was up around 6:30 AM. Made him stay in his room for another fifteen minutes. Hailey was also up at 6:45 AM. I felt really guility for leaving Rob with two crabby, fighting kids. I told them we were not going to start the day fighting. They started the day having a fight five minutes after they woke up. How nice. Rob said it was OK if I ran five miles. So I did my regular five mile route, but I did it in reverse. I started going towards Woodmansee Park to Sumpter to Liberty and back home. I saw that cool jet black rabbit in Woodmansee Park. I wonder if it's someone's pet? It doesn't look wild. I also saw someone brushing their teeth on the way to the bus stop. Hmmmm.....interesting.
Anyway the run felt really really good. I felt like my pace was faster. But I don't think it was. It took me the same amount of time. I felt a little dehydrated. I should have stopped at Sumpter Park to get a drink, but I really wanted to keep going.
When I got home, Hailey was having another meltdown about finishing her breakfast. Kara was up and crying. We think she is teething because she has been really clingy and crabby the last two days. It is in and out and she does not appear sick...just irritable. Thanks Rob for letting me go running. I know it was not a pleasant way to start your day. I am glad you have a quiet office to go to and don't have to deal with the chaos for the rest of your day. No actually they calmed down and did better later on.
Thursday - Rest
I did not want to get up and go running because I was gone another night with the middle schoolers. I got back around 9:45 PM, but was really tired. There was no other time to run during the day. Rob had visits and meetings. I thought about going to the gym at 9 PM when he got back. I was still researching this court case I am covering for the Banner. I really wanted to get that finished. Oh well...some days will be like that.
Friday - Group Power
Went to 9 AM Group Power and they are still doing Summer Launch. I woke up feeling very fatigued, dehydrated, and even a little dizzy. I almost thought about staying home. I knew I was not getting sick because my appetite was normal. Once I got there and set up, I felt better. I was able to keep all the same weights from last week except I went a little less on the second back and legs track. It was a good workout and I was glad I went. I am ready to not have so much in the evenings.
I ran later than usual around 7:15 PM. Rob was OK with it and told me to go ahead. I did my normal three mile route to Ewald. Aside from feeling sore from yesterday's run, it was fine. It was the last spell of the heat wave and I could already tell we were going to hit 90. The air was cooler and perfect, but as I got home I was starting to feel warm and sweaty.
Tuesday - Rest
I decided to take the day off from running. I was pretty sore from from the last two days. We got home from Noordams around 10 PM Monday night. After being in the pool and sun all afternoon and evening, we were worn out. It was hard for both Rob and I to get up. The kids had no problem getting up at 7 AM even though they went to bed two hours past their bedtime. Isn't that the way it goes?
Wednesday - Ran 5 miles
Again it was hard to get up because I got home from Faber's at 10:15 PM last night. My schedule is not usually like this. I love the extra time with friends this week, but it is pretty tough to get up in the morning. Derek was up around 6:30 AM. Made him stay in his room for another fifteen minutes. Hailey was also up at 6:45 AM. I felt really guility for leaving Rob with two crabby, fighting kids. I told them we were not going to start the day fighting. They started the day having a fight five minutes after they woke up. How nice. Rob said it was OK if I ran five miles. So I did my regular five mile route, but I did it in reverse. I started going towards Woodmansee Park to Sumpter to Liberty and back home. I saw that cool jet black rabbit in Woodmansee Park. I wonder if it's someone's pet? It doesn't look wild. I also saw someone brushing their teeth on the way to the bus stop. Hmmmm.....interesting.
Anyway the run felt really really good. I felt like my pace was faster. But I don't think it was. It took me the same amount of time. I felt a little dehydrated. I should have stopped at Sumpter Park to get a drink, but I really wanted to keep going.
When I got home, Hailey was having another meltdown about finishing her breakfast. Kara was up and crying. We think she is teething because she has been really clingy and crabby the last two days. It is in and out and she does not appear sick...just irritable. Thanks Rob for letting me go running. I know it was not a pleasant way to start your day. I am glad you have a quiet office to go to and don't have to deal with the chaos for the rest of your day. No actually they calmed down and did better later on.
Thursday - Rest
I did not want to get up and go running because I was gone another night with the middle schoolers. I got back around 9:45 PM, but was really tired. There was no other time to run during the day. Rob had visits and meetings. I thought about going to the gym at 9 PM when he got back. I was still researching this court case I am covering for the Banner. I really wanted to get that finished. Oh well...some days will be like that.
Friday - Group Power
Went to 9 AM Group Power and they are still doing Summer Launch. I woke up feeling very fatigued, dehydrated, and even a little dizzy. I almost thought about staying home. I knew I was not getting sick because my appetite was normal. Once I got there and set up, I felt better. I was able to keep all the same weights from last week except I went a little less on the second back and legs track. It was a good workout and I was glad I went. I am ready to not have so much in the evenings.
Saturday - Ran 3 Miles
My legs were so incredibly sore this morning and I know it was from all those squats at Power yesterday. I really pushed myself on them and increased my weight. I was squatting down this morning to pick something up for Derek and I felt the soreness. I really wanted to go running because it usually helps. Getting the muscles going again feels more comfortable.
I have been mapping out some new routes for variety. Since it has been comfortable out again, I can run in the afternoon on the weekend. I took the short way to Sumpter Park and ran through that neighborhood encircling the park and then back to Lone Oak to home. I felt sore and fatigued until about halfway and then I felt better again. It is a nice route with two little uphills that are manageable.
It's a kick back week which means my long run tomorrow is shorter. I am hoping to get it done again before church.
Sunday - Rest
Bleck. I hate missing workouts. Planned on running in the morning. Even woke up with the alarm and was planning on going. I felt gastroenteritis coming on last night. I woke up with it this morning. It was pretty mild compared to the previous times I had it. I think it was due to some fatty food I ate last night. My body cannot handle this kind of food. I did not realize I ate it until it was too late. I was preoccupied with Kara and Derek. I knew it was mild enough that I could probably run in the afternoon. At church I felt dizzy, dehydrated, and my stomach still hurt. My legs are still killing me from the squats. I almost took Tylenol this morning. I feel really irritable and crabby. I think it is from all the above. Lately on the weekends we have been able to sleep until around 7:30 AM or 8:00 AM. Kara and Derek have been getting up before 7 again. I really need to get back on my early morning routine and hit it hard this week. We have things going in the evening this week, but we won't be out past 9. So I don't anticipate not being able to get up in the morning.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Week #2
A little crazy yet also refreshing to be back at Week #2
Monday - Group Power and Ran 3 Miles
It's Summer Launch so everything at Power and every workout in every class is new. New songs too. I love Summer Launch! I remember with Spring Launch, I did not like the new workouts especially the abs/core track. This time around it's nice to have a change. The music is very 80's and 90's which is more up my alley...I didn't get into the songs as much this time around. I slept so good--straight from around 10:30 PM until the alarm went off at 4:48 AM. No kids got me up and no insomina related stuff. So I knew I could get there and be awake enough. I did not struggle on any tracks which probably means I need to increase my weights. The thing with increased weight means though I don't enjoy it as much. I enjoy it when I can do it and feel good--not when I am dying afterwards. I do know I need to push myself and not settle for "easy."
After Power I ran three miles. I don't like the treadmill at all. I like it even less since I have no iPod or headphones to hear the TVs. I washed and dried my headphones and still haven't bothered to replace them. I thought about running in the neighborhood around the gym (and I always run in this neighborhood on my long runs), but decided I would rather run in my own neighborhood. So I drove home and then did my regular three mile route to Ewald and back through Liberty. It is more difficult running after Power. I feel more fatigued and my left thigh was sore from the squats and lunges. I got through it and and did not have to walk at all.
Felt good to be back in the groove again. Hope I can keep the motivation up for awhile. I really need this time in the morning to workout.
Tuesday - Ran 5 Miles
I got up around 6:30 AM and then ran to Sumpter Park and back. It was a good run. Felt a little sore at first from working out so hard at Power the day before. Otherwise, it went well. Did not really have to walk at all, but stopped at both drinking fountains (Sumpter and Woodmansee). I am finding the extra hydration makes a huge difference--did not drink nearly as much when I used to run.
Wednesday - Group Power
Yay! The first time in I don't know how long I went to Group Power twice in one week...especially in the early morning hours. I almost decided to sleep. Then I remembered how much I loved Summer Launch and it was the perfect way to start my day. Plus I am seeing a huge difference. I increased my weight on everything except biceps. Although it was tough at times, I could complete the workouts and feel good. I had some knee pain in the warm up which concerned me a little bit. It went away, but I still have to watch that. I might have to ice my knee later today if I feel the pain again. I am just so pumped I am motivated again and out of the slump for awhile.
Monday - Group Power and Ran 3 Miles
It's Summer Launch so everything at Power and every workout in every class is new. New songs too. I love Summer Launch! I remember with Spring Launch, I did not like the new workouts especially the abs/core track. This time around it's nice to have a change. The music is very 80's and 90's which is more up my alley...I didn't get into the songs as much this time around. I slept so good--straight from around 10:30 PM until the alarm went off at 4:48 AM. No kids got me up and no insomina related stuff. So I knew I could get there and be awake enough. I did not struggle on any tracks which probably means I need to increase my weights. The thing with increased weight means though I don't enjoy it as much. I enjoy it when I can do it and feel good--not when I am dying afterwards. I do know I need to push myself and not settle for "easy."
After Power I ran three miles. I don't like the treadmill at all. I like it even less since I have no iPod or headphones to hear the TVs. I washed and dried my headphones and still haven't bothered to replace them. I thought about running in the neighborhood around the gym (and I always run in this neighborhood on my long runs), but decided I would rather run in my own neighborhood. So I drove home and then did my regular three mile route to Ewald and back through Liberty. It is more difficult running after Power. I feel more fatigued and my left thigh was sore from the squats and lunges. I got through it and and did not have to walk at all.
Felt good to be back in the groove again. Hope I can keep the motivation up for awhile. I really need this time in the morning to workout.
Tuesday - Ran 5 Miles
I got up around 6:30 AM and then ran to Sumpter Park and back. It was a good run. Felt a little sore at first from working out so hard at Power the day before. Otherwise, it went well. Did not really have to walk at all, but stopped at both drinking fountains (Sumpter and Woodmansee). I am finding the extra hydration makes a huge difference--did not drink nearly as much when I used to run.
Wednesday - Group Power
Yay! The first time in I don't know how long I went to Group Power twice in one week...especially in the early morning hours. I almost decided to sleep. Then I remembered how much I loved Summer Launch and it was the perfect way to start my day. Plus I am seeing a huge difference. I increased my weight on everything except biceps. Although it was tough at times, I could complete the workouts and feel good. I had some knee pain in the warm up which concerned me a little bit. It went away, but I still have to watch that. I might have to ice my knee later today if I feel the pain again. I am just so pumped I am motivated again and out of the slump for awhile.
Thursday - Ran 3 Miles
I was going to do my three at 6:45 AM, but Derek was up already at 6:40 AM. His sleep has been better overall. It's still a frustration at times! He sleeps through the night, but the whole going to bed process has its bad moments. Right now he is going on a twenty five minutes crying rage because he will not take his nap. This is the first time in months he's done this one. He is the kind of kid who wakes up earlier when he goes to bed later...and everything gets thrown off. He gets more hyper and out of control when he's sleep deprived. It's a vicious cycle. He will probably always be this way. In many ways I am like this too. I had bad insomnia throughout my childhood starting around second grade and ending around sixth grade.
But this entry is not about sleep. I think I am just frustrated and need to write about it so I don't go physcho. :) It was an easy enough day that I could run during Rob's lunch. So I ran my old four mile route, but took Boone instead of Kuebler. I wanted to hit the hills on Boone because I hadn't done a good hill workout in a while. The hills seemed smaller and much more manageable than they did a few months ago. The hardest thing was the heat. We're slowly crawling back to the 90's where we have hardly been at all this summer. It was a good run overall.
Friday - Group Ride
It is Launch Week and there a lot of new people visiting the classes so I tried Group Ride today. It is a full hour of cycling on a stationary bike and a lot of people call it "Spin Class." I was happy that Jen was teaching because I got to know her a little bit when I was pregnant with Kara. She was always working when I came in to run/walk on the treadmills. I was told this class is super tough. It is what you want to make of it. You can put it in a tougher gear or keep it low depending on your fitness level. Everyone sweats so much! I was drenched by the end of it. I guess that is why they handed me two towels when I walked in. It was a great cross training workout and I think I would go again. It is easier for me than swimming and I feel like accomplish more. I don't want to totally give up on swimming. I think variety is good and keeps you motivated. I like the "group" aspect of cycling and it comes a little easier than trying to swim laps. The class is offered a lot so I am sure I could go on an evening or Saturday if I can't go Friday mornings.
Now 9 miles tomorrow and it is supposed to be 95 tomorrow. So I need to get an early start!
Saturday - Rest
I decided to take Saturday totally off. We were exhausted Friday night after we left Emily's reception, picked up the kids, put them to bed, and went to bed soon thereafter. I woke at 6 AM and felt fatigued. That is how I felt all day. Some of it was due to the heat (we're in the 90's for only the second this this summer) and we turned on the air conditioning first thing in the morning. Some of it was also due to a busy week. It was the first week I felt like I kept an intentional schedule and managed my time well. And got all my workouts in. That is something to be proud of.
Sunday - 9 miles
I liked doing my long run on Sunday morning. It was a great run. It is nice to be able to repeat these long runs. I am doing so much better with them than a few month ago. I mapped out a route that took me past Sumpter Park, Rees Hill City Park, and Wes Bennet and then taking Kuebler home to Sunnyside past Woodmansee. The route ended on Jones so I could walk a half mile home. That last walk is great and I look forward to it. I stopped for about 15 - 30 seconds every 1 - 1 1/2 mile to rehydrate. I felt extremely dehydrated this morning. I drank 16 oz of Ultima throughout the run. It makes a huge difference. I gave myself permission to walk up the Baxter hill. I ran up the whole thing except the last peak. It is a massive hill! It was so beautiful to see the mountains with fog sitting on them. Oregon is so beautiful! That motivated me a little bit.
On the last mile I was starting to have some shin pain so I need to watch that. Everyone was out running this morning! Probably because it is supposed to be 95 today and the heat lingers until around 8 PM. No one wants to run in that. It felt cool and comfortable this morning. So thankful we don't have humidity in Oregon...at least very, very little of it.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Week #9 which turned into Week #1
I am only posting my actual workouts now. I am following the training guide, but my schedule changes week to week. So I am not always doing the specific workout for that day.
Monday - Ran 3 Miles
I took nine days off running which I did not want to do. In a lot of ways, it was the best decision. So I was ready to go running again once we were home. I did not try to get up at the crack of dawn. I ran during Rob's lunch and went to Woodmansee Park, through it, and then back again. Aside from feeling a little winded and the heat of the day was starting to hit, I felt OK. My body is used to running in the morning when it is not as hot out. It wasn't overwhelmingly hot.
I was hoping to race a couple times this month, but I am realizing I don't want a crazy schedule. I am craving down time and more time to work on home projects. I want to focus on getting my mileage up and going to Group Power. So I might not race at all until September. We'll just see how it goes.
Tuesday - Ran 7 miles
Tough run. Could not get out bed in the morning so postponed the run until the evening. I got out around 7:45 PM and realized how much earlier it is getting dark around here. These evening runs are slowly coming to a close. Especially as it gets lighter earlier and my mileage is increasing. I ran to Browning to Commerical to Mildred back to Liberty. I honestly did not feel good. I had stomach issues throughout the run and felt fatigued. I could not "get in the zone." I was able to run the whole way except I walked for up the last half of a hill on Midred. I have run the road before, but could not remember how huge the hills are. I did not feel ready for them. I felt the best again on the last mile. I really wish my motivation was better and I was enjoying running more. I hope it is just post vacation feelings.
Wednesday - Rest
I had every intention of going to Group Power. For some odd reason Kara woke me up three times in the night. It's been a long time since she's done this (aside from when we were on vacation and she was sleeping in the Pack and Play). She went down again with a pacifier and "Goodnight" music the first two times and third she put herself back to sleep. I did not feel like I slept enough to be able to hit the gym at 5 AM. So I slept until 7:30 AM and thought about trying to run in the evening. We got back from the park event our church puts on at 8:15 PM and it was getting too dark. Kind of frustrated with the marathon training lately. I really want to be back in the schedule like I was three weeks ago.
Thursday - Ran 4 miles
I got out the door at 7 AM. I was a little concerned it was too late and Rob would have to deal with all three kids plus getting ready for work. When I came back at 7:45 AM, none of them were up yet. Derek did not get up until 8:30 AM and Kara not until 9:15 AM. I think they are getting caught up from vacation. I ran to Sumpter Park and back. I finally felt better. I felt strong and like I could tackle the hills. I am feeling more confident about doing 11 miles again this weekend. My heel is not hurting as much. I am trying to train myself to not toe out so far. I studied my shoes and realized I wear out the inside heel on my right foot so far down...like the rubber on my Sauconys is almost completely gone. I was born with two crooked feet, but they only put my left in a cast. I wore a cast for awhile and have baby pictures of myself wearing it with these special shoes that attached to it. My mom said they should have put both feet in a cast. My left leg is straight (and I have no heel problems with it) while I still toe out with my right. If I wanted to spend a lot of money, I could hire a running coach to retrain myself to run correctly. Since I am not competinig for money or titles...just running for fun...I am not real interested in doing that.
Friday - Group Power
So wonderful to be at Group Power. Very energizing. I feel much, much stronger on the leg tracks since I have putting on the miles. I increased my weight even though I had not been to Power in two weeks...and it was fine. I struggled the most on shoulders and triceps and I know it is because I don't work these areas as much. I LOVE Power...need to try to get there more often. The music was upbeat and catchy today. Everyone seemed really into it.
Ok and here is why we jumped back to Week #1. I went to the Portland Marathon website today and saw that registration is closed! I could not beleive it. I checked the website not so long ago and there was no indication of this. When I ran in 2006, I registered for the race in September. I know it was after Labor Day. I remember sending in the check. If I remember right, they were taking a few registrants the day before. Who is all running it now!? Has it really gotten that big? I know it is the most walker friendly marathons and there seem to be a lot of walking clinics that have sprung up over the years. How crazy!! That means I cannot run it! Rob told me not to freak out and we would figure something out. He is really for me running this fall and committed to it. We considered Columbia Gorge, but the problem with this one is it is two days after we're back from vacation. I don't want to spend the week before I run on vacation. It will affect my vacation and Rob didn't think it was the best idea either. Plus Columbia Gorge is a challenging course. Although I do run lots of hills, I think it would be too much. It's only my second marathon. So we decided on California International Marathon in Sacramento!! The Portland to Sacramento flight is cheap. It is December 5th. I will probably go out there by myself on that Saturday morning and come home Sunday night. My parents have dear friends in Ripon who are super hospitable and I might see if they want to meet up for supper or something. I think I will probably enjoy the alone time too. Plus the course looks awesome. I'm really, really excited and hope it works out. I am not posting it to my blog or facebook page until I am registered and it's confirmed. There's been way too many changes already!
It might be a blessing in disguise. I have more time now to work on my long runs and get my mileage up to where it should be. I also can try and get back into Group Power more often and possibly start my swimming again. The last few weeks have been way too inconsistent. We're starting to get back into our normal routine again. Plus Rob mentioned it might be fun to try a totally different marathon in a new place. I agree. I am really extroverted, but I do like taking trips by myself. I worry about getting injured and I also worry about getting sick. I know our flu season doesn't really hit until February, but now that Hailey will be in school...she'll be bringing in all kinds of new germs. I guess I can't get all wrapped up in the "what ifs." I will just do the best I can. This whole Team Winter thing was placed in my lap and I feel like God lead the way. I know He will lead me the rest of the way too. So hopefully it will be Sacramento, here I come!
Saturday - Ran 8 miles
I decided since I will probably do Sacramento at this point...to back track on the training. I missed too many long runs and I am loving the opportunity to repeat them. Of course this means I will still be training in October and November, but I actually don't mind this at all. These months are going to be less crazy and it will be cooler out...which means I can run during the day on Rob's day off.
I did Week #1's long run and I did 8 miles. I did my 9 mile route, but shaved a mile off by going to Idylwood instead of Browning. It was wonderful to finally feel good while I was running. I only really struggled on one uphill, but I did not have to stop and walk. I still love this route! I stopped and drank Ultima at the lights on Commercial and then refilled my water bottle at Woodmansee Park. It was refreshing to be able to complete a run and not feel like I was struggling the whole time.
I could have done the 11 miles this weekend like the training log would have it were still Week #9, but it would have been tough. I am glad for this chance to start over. I just keep bugging Rob I need to register for Sacramento soon as I don't want to run into the same problem!
Monday - Ran 3 Miles
I took nine days off running which I did not want to do. In a lot of ways, it was the best decision. So I was ready to go running again once we were home. I did not try to get up at the crack of dawn. I ran during Rob's lunch and went to Woodmansee Park, through it, and then back again. Aside from feeling a little winded and the heat of the day was starting to hit, I felt OK. My body is used to running in the morning when it is not as hot out. It wasn't overwhelmingly hot.
I was hoping to race a couple times this month, but I am realizing I don't want a crazy schedule. I am craving down time and more time to work on home projects. I want to focus on getting my mileage up and going to Group Power. So I might not race at all until September. We'll just see how it goes.
Tuesday - Ran 7 miles
Tough run. Could not get out bed in the morning so postponed the run until the evening. I got out around 7:45 PM and realized how much earlier it is getting dark around here. These evening runs are slowly coming to a close. Especially as it gets lighter earlier and my mileage is increasing. I ran to Browning to Commerical to Mildred back to Liberty. I honestly did not feel good. I had stomach issues throughout the run and felt fatigued. I could not "get in the zone." I was able to run the whole way except I walked for up the last half of a hill on Midred. I have run the road before, but could not remember how huge the hills are. I did not feel ready for them. I felt the best again on the last mile. I really wish my motivation was better and I was enjoying running more. I hope it is just post vacation feelings.
Wednesday - Rest
I had every intention of going to Group Power. For some odd reason Kara woke me up three times in the night. It's been a long time since she's done this (aside from when we were on vacation and she was sleeping in the Pack and Play). She went down again with a pacifier and "Goodnight" music the first two times and third she put herself back to sleep. I did not feel like I slept enough to be able to hit the gym at 5 AM. So I slept until 7:30 AM and thought about trying to run in the evening. We got back from the park event our church puts on at 8:15 PM and it was getting too dark. Kind of frustrated with the marathon training lately. I really want to be back in the schedule like I was three weeks ago.
Thursday - Ran 4 miles
I got out the door at 7 AM. I was a little concerned it was too late and Rob would have to deal with all three kids plus getting ready for work. When I came back at 7:45 AM, none of them were up yet. Derek did not get up until 8:30 AM and Kara not until 9:15 AM. I think they are getting caught up from vacation. I ran to Sumpter Park and back. I finally felt better. I felt strong and like I could tackle the hills. I am feeling more confident about doing 11 miles again this weekend. My heel is not hurting as much. I am trying to train myself to not toe out so far. I studied my shoes and realized I wear out the inside heel on my right foot so far down...like the rubber on my Sauconys is almost completely gone. I was born with two crooked feet, but they only put my left in a cast. I wore a cast for awhile and have baby pictures of myself wearing it with these special shoes that attached to it. My mom said they should have put both feet in a cast. My left leg is straight (and I have no heel problems with it) while I still toe out with my right. If I wanted to spend a lot of money, I could hire a running coach to retrain myself to run correctly. Since I am not competinig for money or titles...just running for fun...I am not real interested in doing that.
Friday - Group Power
So wonderful to be at Group Power. Very energizing. I feel much, much stronger on the leg tracks since I have putting on the miles. I increased my weight even though I had not been to Power in two weeks...and it was fine. I struggled the most on shoulders and triceps and I know it is because I don't work these areas as much. I LOVE Power...need to try to get there more often. The music was upbeat and catchy today. Everyone seemed really into it.
Ok and here is why we jumped back to Week #1. I went to the Portland Marathon website today and saw that registration is closed! I could not beleive it. I checked the website not so long ago and there was no indication of this. When I ran in 2006, I registered for the race in September. I know it was after Labor Day. I remember sending in the check. If I remember right, they were taking a few registrants the day before. Who is all running it now!? Has it really gotten that big? I know it is the most walker friendly marathons and there seem to be a lot of walking clinics that have sprung up over the years. How crazy!! That means I cannot run it! Rob told me not to freak out and we would figure something out. He is really for me running this fall and committed to it. We considered Columbia Gorge, but the problem with this one is it is two days after we're back from vacation. I don't want to spend the week before I run on vacation. It will affect my vacation and Rob didn't think it was the best idea either. Plus Columbia Gorge is a challenging course. Although I do run lots of hills, I think it would be too much. It's only my second marathon. So we decided on California International Marathon in Sacramento!! The Portland to Sacramento flight is cheap. It is December 5th. I will probably go out there by myself on that Saturday morning and come home Sunday night. My parents have dear friends in Ripon who are super hospitable and I might see if they want to meet up for supper or something. I think I will probably enjoy the alone time too. Plus the course looks awesome. I'm really, really excited and hope it works out. I am not posting it to my blog or facebook page until I am registered and it's confirmed. There's been way too many changes already!
It might be a blessing in disguise. I have more time now to work on my long runs and get my mileage up to where it should be. I also can try and get back into Group Power more often and possibly start my swimming again. The last few weeks have been way too inconsistent. We're starting to get back into our normal routine again. Plus Rob mentioned it might be fun to try a totally different marathon in a new place. I agree. I am really extroverted, but I do like taking trips by myself. I worry about getting injured and I also worry about getting sick. I know our flu season doesn't really hit until February, but now that Hailey will be in school...she'll be bringing in all kinds of new germs. I guess I can't get all wrapped up in the "what ifs." I will just do the best I can. This whole Team Winter thing was placed in my lap and I feel like God lead the way. I know He will lead me the rest of the way too. So hopefully it will be Sacramento, here I come!
Saturday - Ran 8 miles
I decided since I will probably do Sacramento at this point...to back track on the training. I missed too many long runs and I am loving the opportunity to repeat them. Of course this means I will still be training in October and November, but I actually don't mind this at all. These months are going to be less crazy and it will be cooler out...which means I can run during the day on Rob's day off.
I did Week #1's long run and I did 8 miles. I did my 9 mile route, but shaved a mile off by going to Idylwood instead of Browning. It was wonderful to finally feel good while I was running. I only really struggled on one uphill, but I did not have to stop and walk. I still love this route! I stopped and drank Ultima at the lights on Commercial and then refilled my water bottle at Woodmansee Park. It was refreshing to be able to complete a run and not feel like I was struggling the whole time.
I could have done the 11 miles this weekend like the training log would have it were still Week #9, but it would have been tough. I am glad for this chance to start over. I just keep bugging Rob I need to register for Sacramento soon as I don't want to run into the same problem!
Week #8
I took this week completely off. We were in Penticton the whole week. If we had older kids or it was just Rob and I, I could have easily gotten some runs in. There were beautiful paths along the beach. It was painful to not be able to get out there and go. We were often busy until 9 at night, the afternoons were too hot, and getting away in the morning was really difficult. Originally Rob was going to go golfing a whole morning with his brother. That was not even possible with our family's situation. It was a great vacation and I didn't feel like we were constantly running everywhere. It was just super hard to get away from the kids. Most of the time we wanted to pour all our energy into spending time with them. They got a little jipped during VBS week and the week before it. I had some activity--a short hike, lots of walking, and playing in the water with the kids. That was the extent of it.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Week #7
It's VBS week. And I'm in charge. Super crazy week, but it's a great week too.
Monday: Group Power & 4 Miles
Actual : Group Power
No way I could do both having to be at church at 8 AM with all three kids and myself ready to go. I did make it to Group Power. Even with that I was still running crazy at church. I LOVED being at Group Power. It was such a great workout and I am starting to increase my weight. I used to not be able to do more than a couple bench dips and now I can complete them all!
Tuesday: 7 Miles
Actual: 4 Miles
I did the other half of yesterday's workout. I am giving myself some slack this week since VBS is taking over all our schedules this week. Thankfully everyone is OK with that and adjusting fine. Even Kara.
Margie took Hailey and Derek all day after VBS. So I ran at 5:45 PM while Kara was taking a cat nap. I looked at the map wrong and ended up missing my turn. I did not really care where I was running...I just wanted to run and get my energy out. I needed to refocus. So I mostly ran up and down Liberty. I knew I made about four miles...maybe a little more. It was a good run. I think my body is used to running in the morning now and it was a little bit of an adjustment with the warmer air. It was good though. No complaints.
Wednesday, Thursday & Friday
I don't even want to talk about it! I hate missing three days of running!! I could not get out and do it. It was not even possible. I have to cut myself some slack and not be so hard on myself.
Saturday
Actual: 11 miles
My long run was supposed to be 14 miles. I looked at the same workout schedule for Novice Marathon and it said 12. I did not want to run at all. I woke up and felt fatigued. I crawled back in bed. Rob reminded me I would not be able to go later as it is supposed to be like 95 today. So I said I would try and run as much as I can. I knew he was taking Hailey and Derek out and had to leave around 9 AM. So I could not do 14 and be back in time. It was around 6:30ish. So I figured I would do 9 and then see how much time I had left. I knew it was going to be hot. I was warm all night. I knew I would run out of sports drink by Mile #9. I actually ran out much soonner than that and had to detour my route (I was doing the same one as last Saturday) to Woodsmansee Park so I could fill up my water bottle.
When I got to the park I kept running up to the Roths Vista and then would take Liberty back home. I figured when I got back home, I would be at around the 11 or 12 mile mark. It was more like 11. Honestly I could have gone longer. The fact Rob had to start getting the kids ready to go and I was getting really hot, I decided to end it for the morning. I am glad I got that much in. Because when I woke up, I felt like I could hardly run four miles let alone 11. Aside from constantly feeling like I needed fluids (I only stopped to drink about every 1 1/2 - 2 miles and at lights...never stopped just to walk) and the heat, I felt good. My New Balance shoes give me much more heel support than my Sauconys so I think I need to stick with NB for the time being.
We're going on vacation and I know I am not going to run as much again. I know once I get home I should be able to get my mileage back up again. Our schedule will wind down and we do not have anything major until Hailey starts school in early September.
Monday: Group Power & 4 Miles
Actual : Group Power
No way I could do both having to be at church at 8 AM with all three kids and myself ready to go. I did make it to Group Power. Even with that I was still running crazy at church. I LOVED being at Group Power. It was such a great workout and I am starting to increase my weight. I used to not be able to do more than a couple bench dips and now I can complete them all!
Tuesday: 7 Miles
Actual: 4 Miles
I did the other half of yesterday's workout. I am giving myself some slack this week since VBS is taking over all our schedules this week. Thankfully everyone is OK with that and adjusting fine. Even Kara.
Margie took Hailey and Derek all day after VBS. So I ran at 5:45 PM while Kara was taking a cat nap. I looked at the map wrong and ended up missing my turn. I did not really care where I was running...I just wanted to run and get my energy out. I needed to refocus. So I mostly ran up and down Liberty. I knew I made about four miles...maybe a little more. It was a good run. I think my body is used to running in the morning now and it was a little bit of an adjustment with the warmer air. It was good though. No complaints.
Wednesday, Thursday & Friday
I don't even want to talk about it! I hate missing three days of running!! I could not get out and do it. It was not even possible. I have to cut myself some slack and not be so hard on myself.
Saturday
Actual: 11 miles
My long run was supposed to be 14 miles. I looked at the same workout schedule for Novice Marathon and it said 12. I did not want to run at all. I woke up and felt fatigued. I crawled back in bed. Rob reminded me I would not be able to go later as it is supposed to be like 95 today. So I said I would try and run as much as I can. I knew he was taking Hailey and Derek out and had to leave around 9 AM. So I could not do 14 and be back in time. It was around 6:30ish. So I figured I would do 9 and then see how much time I had left. I knew it was going to be hot. I was warm all night. I knew I would run out of sports drink by Mile #9. I actually ran out much soonner than that and had to detour my route (I was doing the same one as last Saturday) to Woodsmansee Park so I could fill up my water bottle.
When I got to the park I kept running up to the Roths Vista and then would take Liberty back home. I figured when I got back home, I would be at around the 11 or 12 mile mark. It was more like 11. Honestly I could have gone longer. The fact Rob had to start getting the kids ready to go and I was getting really hot, I decided to end it for the morning. I am glad I got that much in. Because when I woke up, I felt like I could hardly run four miles let alone 11. Aside from constantly feeling like I needed fluids (I only stopped to drink about every 1 1/2 - 2 miles and at lights...never stopped just to walk) and the heat, I felt good. My New Balance shoes give me much more heel support than my Sauconys so I think I need to stick with NB for the time being.
We're going on vacation and I know I am not going to run as much again. I know once I get home I should be able to get my mileage back up again. Our schedule will wind down and we do not have anything major until Hailey starts school in early September.
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