Running at the beach with sand in my shoes.

2009-12-03T17:39:00.000-08:00

Yuck

2009-05-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

This picture pretty much sums up how my run went yesterday. I didn't exactly puke....but my stomach didnt feel too well.

I had planed to do my long run of about 10 miles yesterday but the weather has been awful this weekend. I was staring at the radar all morning looking for a window of opportunity to get the run in before the next down pour.

Finally, late in the afternoon I gave up eyeballing the computer and geared up for my run. After the first 2 miles, it started to pour down rain.

After 3 miles, my right earbud to my ipod quit. And its still pouring and now Im soaked. I decided not to go 10 miles but maybe just 5.

But the rain stopped and I had one working earbud. I decided to go 7.

After 4.5 miles I get a stomach cramp....and my shoes feel like brick sponges. It starts pouring again and my ipod quit.

After 5.2 miles, I have a cramp in my stomach so bad I have to stop. Am I actually getting runner's trots?? I NEVER get runner's trots!

I start to run after the cramp subsides. It starts pouring down rain again. I see another runner with his dog at mile 5.8 and he says "Sure does feel good doesn't it??" Right....

I hit 6 miles and now Im praying that I can make it home without having an accident because the cramps are really killing me and my legs hurt and I'm sick of it all.

Mile 7 and I stop. But...Im still about .30 miles from home. I walk. I walk the walk of survival because I know that if I dont get to the house soon....well.....Im gonna have my first ever accident.

I get to the house and make it to the potty wet self and all......

It was the suckiest most awful run ever. And its raining still today....and I didn't get to redeem myself.

Ok, it's time for a running make over. I went out and bought a roller for my sore hamstrings and glutes. I'm going to eliminate the junky junk food, get more protein in my diet, hit the gym at least once a week and ride my bike. Something has gotta give here because my running has gone down hill since the marathon.

I'm going to shoot for the Elizabeth River Run 8K next weekend and kick off a new season of training! Hope everyone had a restful and DRY weekend ;-)

Rescued

2009-04-25T05:31:00.000-07:00

This is basically what has been consuming the majority of my time and energy. This new little bundle of joy.

Brody the golden boy is officially 12 weeks old but we are on our 4th week together and as puppy raising goes....all has gone well.

The only thing is that he is SPOILED rotten. Even Bailey didn't get the kind of treatment Brody gets.

Brody already sleeps with me and goes EVERYWHERE in the truck with me.

Unfortunately, I don't have children.....really it was not because I never wanted kids...but I spent many years in a relationship I should have gotten out of. I made a series of bad relationship choices and now I'm in my 40's with the perfect man....but it's very questionable on whether well will have kids. A bit risky at my age.....

Long story short.....my maternal instincts have all been dumped on this puppy so I speak like a googly dumb new mommy in this video and I swear I treat him and talk about him like he was a 2 year old human!

Well, running has really been tough since Shamrock...and not for lack of motivation but damn! It hurts like hell right now! I'm so frustrated too because it just doesn't seem to want to let up. I feel like maybe its just knotted up muscles in my butt....that's where all the pain is. My knees, calves and quads are all fine. Just my butt.....ooooh....its so sore still!! I have been getting plenty of rest too.....um slept and fought allergies for the majority of my spring break.

So, I bagged the 1/2 marathon last weekend and pussed out of a 10K I was signed up for today. I'm just not up to it. Its pitiful.....

The weather has turned around on the East Coast FINALLY and I'm going to shift gears and start riding my bike.

I need to work on a running goal....I'm a little lost right now with out a goal.

Until then.....my time and energies go here-

A rescued soul....who rescued mine......

Better Late then Never.....

2009-04-12T17:41:00.000-07:00

Holy late post...it's been three weeks since I ran the Shamrock Marathon.....and really it was certainly a race blog worthy.

So, again here is my story in all it's glory and the lessons I learned.

As far as marathons go.....the "day" itself could not have been more perfect. The temps were in the mid 40's to start and the skies were clear and blue....there was absolutely no wind. So, weather was never ever a factor.

Nerves, however, were....

I got to the start line with Running Buddy so full of nerves, I could have lit up the entire city of Virginia Beach....

And it all started a week prior to the race.

If you have kept up with my blog, you would know that I had lost my beloved pet companion "Bailey" in January....and I was on a list of potential "adoptive" parents for a puppy from a litter rescued from a puppy farm just an hour outside of were I live. I was on pins and needles to even know if I had been approved to adopt.

Marathon weekend was more than just about the marathon....it was about the puppy, trying to qualify for Boston....and of course my year long running journey with my running companion....Running Buddy, who was also looking to PR her 2nd marathon.

So, you can imagine the mental wreck I was at the start line.

Time marched on....and the gun went off.

I had made the decision to stay in between the 3:40 and 3:50 pace group....which in the end bit me in the ass.

First of all, the 3:50 pacer started off WAY too fast....like at an 8:15 pace for the first 5k. It scared me and about a half dozen others in the group. But, luckily, the lead guy realized his speed and slowed drastically which pushed me about 30 sec. ahead of the group overall by the first 10K.

And that is where I stayed for the entire run.....until.....mile 22.

This is officially, where my race and fight for the BQ time began.

Friends....for all of the first 21 miles, I was in an awesome place.....felt good, strong, confident and steady. I was on my own, but I stayed within a reasonable pace.

But, by mile 22, I had to start praying. I wouldn't say I "hit the wall" like I did in Outer Banks. I felt ok, tired, but cardio wise, I felt ok. Muscles....well the fight was on. I got a nasty, gnarly and wicked unfamiliar cramp in my right calf. Weird....but painful....

And it slowed me down. It never stopped me....but it slowed me down on the last 4 miles.

Those last 4 miles were a fight for my life....literally, a fight for my BQ time.

I have NEVER, pushed and struggled so hard and worked through the worst "charlie horse" in my LIFE!!!

I used to think that people who got "charlie horse" cramps were crazy...and there I was...on the last 4 miles with a wicked Charlie Horse cramp.

I struggled and used mental strategies as the 3:50 pace group started closing the gap on me.....closer and closer....mile 24, mile 25 and that group was breathing down my back and my cramp was bringing tears to my eyes. I had not one second to stop, stretch, or catch my breath.....literally, I had to speed up.

The 3:50 group caught me and passed me on the 26th mile.

Has it been said that the marathon has been won or lost on the .2 mile? Because mine was WON on that .2 mile.....

3:50:40....

But really 3:40:09.....because my chip time and start time are the same and I did NOT start with the gun.

I only had 19 seconds to spare to qualify for Boston....

And although I'm proud and happy....it was WAY too close for comfort.

My training efforts payed off....and despite the emotional loss of my golden retriever pet of 10 years mid way through my training cycle....I pushed through.....with the love and dedication of a good running partner, boyfriend and mother/best friend....I met my goal and qualified for the Boston Marathon.

Running Buddy still asks me to this VERY day....."do you feel like a different runner now??" and I say...."no....not really..." still I feel very humble.

But....today.....3 weeks later, recovered, stronger and happier...yeah....I do feel like a different runner...and person....

Because, I found strength in me that I NEVER thought existed.

It would have been so easy to quit after I put Bailey to sleep.....

But I didn't.

It would have been so easy to quit after I felt so weak...so tired.....and SOOO sad.....

But I didn't....

And I won...

I won the greatest honor a runner can achieve...

I qualified for the Boston Marathon...

A 41 year old woman...

who only ever ran to lose weight...stay in shape...and stay healthy.....

The dream came true...

And a stronger runner, more motivated person....more grateful individual had been born.

Man....did I learn some life lessons.

Live every day like its your last....sounds so cliche' dear friends....and I used to think I was the poster child of appreciating every moment until my dog died. He was all I had.....then I had nothing. And I didn't know how to go on.

Run every run like it could be your last......

You never know when you can't or won't be able to.

Dig deep into your soul...you are always..... ALWAYS....stronger than you think you are and you can endure more pain than you think you can when your dream is on the line.

Am I a different runner now??? As my Running Buddy would ask....and who by the way PR'd by an ENTIRE HOUR (thanks to my special training and dedication to her dream!) and finished 4:14 ( last year her time was 5:12)

HELL FUCKIN' YEAH I feel different now! I'm goin' to BOSTON BABY!!!!!

But still, there is a humbleness about me....and a deep appreciation for my own strength...and for the powers above...

Because not only did I did make the Boston time.....but I was ALSO blessed with a golden retriever puppy marathon weekend.

I am very happy and satisfied with all the work and efforts......

I am blessed...

Thank you blogger friends for all of your kind comments and thoughts through my journey...

More great things to come!

Next weekend....well.....another half marathon I hope to PR by at least one minute!

Stay tuned!!

Toodles from the East Coast!!

Two words.....

2009-03-22T13:06:00.001-07:00

BOSTON QUALIFIED!

It wasn't easy and it was close....3:50:09...thank goodness they take up to :59 seconds past the qualifying time. That was the hardest race EVER.

Running Buddy made me this T-Shirt.....and I can't wait to crack open the champagne tomorrow with her! Right now, its all about the beer and the relief. Full race report tomorrow as I have taken the day off from work! It was an interesting race.....

Thanks for all the kind comments and support friends!!! It sure is nice to be a part of such a tight nit community of runners!

One Deep Breath

2009-03-21T06:32:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that tomorrow is almost here....as in tomorrow I will be running my 7th marathon. This time, it's not about "just finishing" but about racing. I have never in my life "raced" a marathon but this time it's real. I'm still a little on the fence about my pace but I'm shooting for an 8:40 mpm which should bring me in just under the 3:50 finish time I need for Boston.

To say I'm nervous is putting it so mildly that it's almost not worth mentioning.

I went to the expo yesterday to get my number and chip and of course do a little frivolous spending....by the way I found a very cute podium jacket with the Shamrock logo.....makes me feel "elite" Ha!

Anyway, as I was wandering around the expo with purchases in hand, I came across a vendor who was selling t-shirts that said "One Deep Breath" and in an oval surrounding the saying are some other motivating quotes such as "keep life simple, enjoy every moment" etc. Well, it certainly caught my eye as I have been sweating and sitting on pins and needles all week.

Is it really that simple to just take "one deep breath"?

Yes, it really IS that simple to take one deep breath today.....because each time I do, I feel just a little more relaxed and a little less stressed and it reminds me to just breathe and enjoy. It will be what it is....no matter what I do.

So, a few mantras to take with me tomorrow.....thank you to the Laminator and Frayed Laces for "Don't Deny Your Awesomeness" and I will remind myself at the start and throughout the race to take "One Deep Breath."

It has been one HELL of a journey since my running of the Shamrock last year at this time with my Running Buddy who is also stressing and nervous. I realized just how much I have been through emotionally and physically and I know in my heart I am a much stronger woman for it.

So, here I go ready or not!!! And the weather?? P-E-R-F-E-C-T!!!! Upper 40's at the start, mid 50's near the end and FULL ON SUNSHINE with very little wind.

Here are some random pictures of my family....me, Wonder Boy (at the Hair of the Dog 5K) and Bailey (just before he passed away)....enjoy and send the good marathon vibes blogger buds!!

Hardcore defined

2009-03-02T16:16:00.001-08:00

This weekend, I may have discovered one element that can define one as a hardcore runner......freezing rain. Yes, running in the freezing rain. I suffered through weather conditions that would send most normal minded people onto their couch all day with a good movie or book.

I'm not sure the word "miserable" does me justice when I describe how I felt running my 20 miler in the rain on Saturday.

The forecast was for a coastal storm to start creeping up through the Carolinas this weekend and it all began Saturday morning. I got awake to darkening skies....and Running Buddy and I both had our last long run scheduled for that morning. We had not planned to run together, but we both knew the impending conditions. Neither of us wanted to suffer alone. So after a few texts and some last minute planning, we made it out to the official starting point of the Shamrock Marathon ready to simulate 20 miles on the course. As soon as I picked Running Buddy up, the rain started.

Luckily for us, it was an easy start with the wind to our backs and we were both pretty well layered (another plug for that very cool Nike jacket I bought a while back). We made it about 9 miles until we hit the boardwalk into the wind and that's when the misery started.

The wind must have been blowing 10-15 mph steady with gusts up to 20 and the rain was beating us to death. We ran about 20 streets up the boardwalk and exited onto the trolley lane heading to the north end. That was around mile 12. By this time, things were starting to get really tough.

Running Buddy and I trudged up towards the north end in blustery wind driven rain. By mile 14, we were soaked, tired and hungry so we stopped to eat. More trouble began as we tried to start back up and my Running Buddy got panicked over being cold and wet. She says "Kelly! I'm miserable!" We really didn't have much further to go and we were not far from the car on the turn around, so, after asking "What would YOU do??"....Running Buddy put on the tough girl panties and made it all the way to the turn around with a potty break near the end.

So, what defines us as hardcore runners? Probably more adverse conditions than I could list in my post. I know that my Running Buddy has suffered through major bouts of trots and hydration issues and now she has learned to brave the elements. She is becoming hardcore.

But I realized something about myself on that miserable run on Sunday....3 hours in 40 degree temps with wind and rain. I discovered that I have strengthened my ability to endure pain and misery. I guess you just do as a result of running which inflicts some pain on you most of the time. But the will to go on when the conditions just SUCK.....that's strength I never thought I had.

So, I like to think that yeah, I'm a bit crazy and obsessed in my running....but I've become a little more hardcore.

Miserable highlights:

1. Major boob burn from a soaking wet bra that has now turned into a dry scab ouch

2. Hands so cold from wet gloves, I started to see stars

3. Hallucinated a port a john that actually turned out to be a transit bus...hell they were the same color.

4. Drymax socks WORK! Hey, the socks were soaked and I swear it never felt like it.

5. The Nike Jacket stayed dry for about 15 miles...but then it was a wet rag.

6. My Nike Livestrong capris beaded the rain the entire 20 miles and ended up winning the "driest piece of clothing" award from yours truly.

7. The mind can talk the body into anything the heart has the will to do.....just believe in the run. (That's my feeble attempt to get all deep and philosophical)

So, that's the story in all its glory....time for taper!

Photo Moments

2009-02-26T19:37:00.000-08:00

We are creeping up on the 3 week taper time and oddly, I feel rather calm. Even with my expectations and goals for this upcoming marathon....there is an odd sense of calmness about me. Maybe its after losing Bailey that I have put things in perspective....or maybe I am experiencing delayed onset of marathon nerves....but, I do feel strangely at peace with my running and my expectations for the Shamrock Marathon.

With that being said, thought I might post some pictures from the last of the distance series runs. I just love the folks at Triduo here in old Tidewater...they take awesome pictures, get your pictures posted fast and will even take personal shots of you and your buds at the races if you catch up with one of their photographers and ask.

I call this one "Heh??"

And this one....Could I get any happier??

Seriously, the story behind this lovely photo goes like this....me and Running Buddy and New Runner Friend are coming down a hill and I say "Gee I wonder if the photographer will catch my sistas (aka breasts) bouncing up or down...." and the photographer standing on the side of the road says..."for an extra fee we can fix that!" and we all started laughing...hence the way too happy runner look.

Locked, loaded and ready to run....always keeping my goal pace in mind.

Running Buddy and I have been doing less runs together these days as we have grown apart a little in our distances and paces during these last few weeks. Plus, I haven't been much of a good partner since Bailey died. Running less with my partner feels like a loss to me. And it's just astounding to me how losing the most unconditional love I have ever known (my dog) has knocked me down. Last night, I was thinking how a part of my heart died with Bailey and a piece of me has gone with him. I hate coming home to an empty house and it always brings tears to my eyes.

Thanks to Sam I Am who commented the great quote about grieving being like the ocean...like the ebbing and flowing and coming of the waves....that really struck me. Thanks Sam...

This weekend is my last 20 mile run before the marathon. Oddly, Im looking forward to the challenge of the 8:40 min. per mile pace I am supposed to do ....but the weather...it aint lookin' so good as a coastal storm approaches. I will post a report on Sunday.

TGIF friends!

Coming out of the dark

2009-02-21T17:12:00.000-08:00

I think I may be coming around the bend on this whole grieving process. I still miss Bailey like crazy...but I don't seem to cry as often. Only when certain things pop up and sometimes it still hurts to come home to an empty house.

I did have an interview last week with the South Eastern Virginia Golden Retriever Rescue group to see if I would be a good candidate to adopt a puppy from a litter that was born 3 weeks ago. There were 70 golden retrievers rescued from a puppy mill in Suffolk Virginia about a month ago. The story is sad ....but I think I may be able to give one of those goldens a good home. It just might be what I need to heal my heart.

I have still been running and I think it's getting a little bit better. I don't dread it as much and I don't get as emotional. It's been the longest and hardest 3 weeks of running and to top it off....I hurt my right knee a little bit at the last distance series....so I have been battling a bit of an injury. To top that one off....I caught my third round of the funk. No surprises there though...we had an epidemic flu outbreak at my school where 10% of our kids were out all in one day not to mention all the teachers including Running Buddy who got the stomach flu version. I just have the upper respiratory annoying stuff. To top of Running Buddy's woes...she fell hard like I did when Bailey died. That's a true friend....one that grieves right by your side.

We finished the last of the Tidewater Distance Series tune ups today. It was a 30k.....Running Buddy and I started together but she dropped back around mile 10 to about a 9 minute mile while I kept up the 8:30 with another runner who was pacing us.

Today's run was a success and morale booster. We averaged 8:36 for the 30K. The route was hilly and long so I feel good about today's pace. I haven't been doing any track repeats because of my knee but I have kept up with all the long runs and the mid week tempos. Last Saturday, I finished a 20 miler at 8:40...so I haven't lost too much considering I cut back miles and have missed 3 weeks of track repeats. It's all still up in the air.

Thanks to all my blogger friends who were so compassionate in your comments regarding my dog Bailey. He meant the world to me and my life hasn't been the same since he died. But I am so grateful for all the kind comments and prayers. Hope you all are having great runs and races and I should be back in action before too long. Only one more week to taper madness!!

A Golden Angel in Heaven

2009-02-03T19:55:00.000-08:00

I am experiencing one of the darkest days of my life right now....my beautiful golden retriever Bailey was put to sleep a week ago today. He was 2 months shy of his 10th birthday.

I can not even put into words the amount of grief and despair I am going through right now. It has been an all out effort to get out of bed in the morning and go to work. Thank goodness for the wonderful friends I am blessed to work with.

Bailey was everything to me. He was every aspect of my life. He was the first thing I saw in the morning and the last thing thing I saw before I drifted off to sleep. He entered my life as a young pup....and I was just entering my 30's. He saw me through my worst relationship breakup, the move into a new house....and countless hours of laughter, tears and walks on the beach.

My life is empty without him right now and I can only describe myself as an empty shell of who I was before he died.

It was very sudden, although he had a tumor in his heart that was probably there for a long time. But last Sunday night, he woke very early in the morning....and began to slip away.

The lesson I learned was a very hard and painful one. Although it sounds incredibly cliche', I did learn in the most horrific and sickening way, that every day is precious and you should live it like it was your last.

Because if I had only known.....it was my last night with my dog, that it would be the last walk, the last romp in the back yard and the last swim in the ocean.....well, I would pray that time would have stopped.....so that I could soak in every moment and savor it like I would never taste it again. I wasn't ready for Bailey to go....as if anyone is ever ready to lose something they love so dearly.....but maybe, just maybe, I would have appreciated the little moments with my dog more.

Because I would give my soul.....for just one more walk on the beach with him.

Running hasn't shown me much sympathy....and I have struggled to stay on my routine. I continue to struggle but make myself do what I know heals my soul. For now, I prefer to be alone in my running......for the sake of my partner...I try to run alone. Lord knows I'm not much company....but all I have left now...is my running. It gets me through those sad moments.

Only 6 more weeks until the marathon...and my desire to qualify for Boston seems to have faded with the passing of my dog. I'm just going to give myself some time....and I hope to get back in the game soon.

I am thinking of you my friends and hoping you all are having good runs and races.....and remember to treat every run.....and every day as if it were your last.

Past, Present.....Future

2009-01-18T13:26:00.000-08:00

Seems like lately on several of my runs....I am constantly thinking about how my running has changed from this time last year to now. My transformation from then to now still amazes me and I still can't believe I made it this far.

I was checking on my Garmin downloads from last year at this time when I was again...training for the Shamrock Marathon. My paces and results are vastly different:

Past:

1/12/08 7 miles 1:06 9:31 mpm

1/15/08 8 miles 1:16 9:30 mpm

1/18/08 8 miles 1:14 9:18 mpm

Present:

1/12/09 7 miles 58 min 8:16 mpm

1/17/09 13.1 miles 1:51 8:30 mpm

1/18/09 7 miles 57 min 8:10 mpm

In just one year, I am running much stronger and way faster. Those past 9+ minutes per mile were my fastest and hardest of the entire training cycle. As I look farther into my training last year, I see the times get slower.....like 10 minutes plus. I don't even want to post my long run paces. Eeks...

So, its a big plug for the speed work. That has been a major help for me.

As for my future pace.....well......I'm hoping for my BQ pace of 8:45 or better. Time will tell....

This was a crazy COLD week of running. Man.....it tested my will for sure and THANK GOODNESS for Running Buddy....if wasn't for the fact that she was just as willing to suck it up as I was, I would have pussed out for sure.

Wednesday started the arctic blast with temps barely making it into the 30's. Running Buddy and I did a mid week long run of 9 miles at a pace of 8:40. Thursday was speed work on the boardwalk. We were on for 6x800 meters @ 3:23. Well, temps were right at 30 degrees with a a very very stiff north wind. We started in the north direction for the first 3 repeats and that almost killed us both. Our repeat times were not good......3:25, 3:40, 3:45. Then we turned around into the wind for the last 3 and came much closer to target....3:23, 3:24, 3:25. Not bad considering how cold and zapped we both were.

Friday, we did a 6 mile recovery run after school with the temps only in the 20's. Saturday we did our long run of 13 miles at a target pace of 8:30 mpm. It was terribly cold again.....22 degrees at the start. But the pace warmed us quickly and we were hot messes at the end. I am so proud of my partner for really holding a pace she never thought she could.

Today, it snowed on my 7 miler.....it was so wonderful. It didn't stick of course, but it sure was pretty to see nickel sized flakes falling on me as I zoomed through the 'hood!

Stay warm friends and congratulations to all the marathoners this weekend!

Playing Catch Up

2009-01-11T07:58:00.001-08:00

Boy did this first week back at work fly by. It was mostly uneventful and busy....but we are on the honeymoon period with the kids at school. I was surprised at how attentive and ready they were to learn last week. Yup...honeymoon period.

As far as my training goes...all is well in running la la land. Running Buddy had a suggestion this week for our track repeats. Instead of making ourselves dizzy and sick on the the oval of hell....we decided to go to the boardwalk and do the 1200 meters and 800's. It sure did make a HUGE difference mentally...but physically, it still sucked.

Running Buddy and I did a 20 miler yesterday and I learned the lesson of starting conservatively and finishing strong. I actually payed closer attention to my target pace instead of just running for comfort (since I always go out too fast for too long). The target pace was 9 mpm ....and well we hit that pace all the way. However, at the 5k mark I went ahead and did a little negative split and picked it up to an 8:45 pace and finished stronger than I ever have on a long run. I was pretty happy. This was a good week of running. Knock on wood right??

For your viewing pleasure .....it's Wonder Boy's running debut-Hair of the Dog 5K

That is us running side by side (white hoody and purple jacket) next to pajama pants girl..

Here is Wonder Boy at the start. He is all the way to the left in white hoody and burglar mask. I am in the middle with the pink hat on. It was so incredibly cold at the start.

Here I am at the first of 3 Distance Series Tune Up for the Shamrock Marathon. The first one is a 20K but Running Buddy and I tacked on 5 more miles to make it 18 for our long run.

Ok, so the weather report for this week is COLD and more COLD. Oh boy....

I am in awe of so many of you who are running in some of the most brutally cold and snowy conditions. You are my inspiration! Have a wonderful week blogger buds.....

The Runner I Never Thought I Could Be

2009-01-05T19:20:00.000-08:00

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Marathon 2002

4:45

Ok, it's well past New Year's but Happy New Year friends and sorry for my absence! I must admit that I'm not much of a party person, so Wonder Boy and I just stayed up late and watched movies as 2009 slowly crept in for us.

I'm not much for resolutions either. I've tried that in the past and I forget them one week later. What I do have a tendency to do is look backward instead of forward. Bad habit...but in this case....this year...looking back has been quiet an experience.

This has been one amazing year of running......and all I can say is that in looking back over the years....I have finally become the runner I never thought I could be.

The picture at the top of this post is of my very first marathon 6 years ago. It took me 4 hours and 45 minutes to finish and I thought for sure I was dieing a slow painful death. I had no training plan and never knew for one minute of any mile EXACTLY how far I was going. I just thought...hey...run 3 hours and you're ready for the marathon. HA!

The running years following that marathon were nothing special.....just few and far between races. I completed 5 more marathons all with just wanting to "finish." That is all I ever expected of myself because that is all I ever believed I could do....just finish....because in most endeavors throughout my life.....I quit.

Outer Banks Marathon 2008

3:58

Flash forward to the year 2008...when I ran a marathon with a friend of mine from work who has now become known as "Running Buddy." Everything changed....and I became a runner with a purpose....and the purpose was to not just finish....but to beat every marathon time I had ever achieved. And I did it.

And now.....in the new year of 2009.....I reflect on what kind of runner I was....slow....without purpose...weak.....scared.....no confidence. The runner I am now.....faster.....with a purpose and specific goal, strong, still scared....eh.....maybe not so confident but much better than before!

I am so grateful for my running in 2008....I was sad in that aspect to see the year pass. My running in 2008 certainly taught me how to hold my head a little higher.

As far as the achievements in 2008? Well a bucket load of PR's and accumulated miles that total over 1,400. I went from running slow 10-10:30 min miles at best this same time last year to running 8-8:30 min miles with a smile on my face. As far as running goes...it just don't get better than that!

On that note...I will end with a brief update:

-Track work last week....OMG. The wind gusts on the track were up to 20 mph and I was pounding out 1600 meter repeats x3 @ 7 min per 'peat. Ok, first one yeah....second and third I was off by about 5-6 seconds. I blame the gusts.

-Long Run this weekend....thank goodness Running Buddy came back from her 2 week hiatus at home in PA. We ran 18 miles together at a challenging pace of 9 mpm.

-Today's tempo run.....fantastic.....Running Buddy and I busted out 7:50 min per mile on our 5 mile tempo run. The track beast is giving me the gift of strength. Honestly, it's starting to pay off.

-I am hanging tough on the FIRST plan for a Boston BQ. I have challenged myself to the 3:40 finishing time plan although I only need 3:50. So far so good. We shall see.

Have a great week friends. I will post a few pictures this week of The Hair of the Dog 5K on New Year's Day.....Wonder Boy's debut 5K and pictures of the Tidewater Striders Distance Series 20K tune up for the Shamrock I did with Running Buddy....

Toodles~

Electric Shock and 20 miles

2008-12-28T06:53:00.000-08:00

Here is a new analogy for my love of track workouts....electric shock treatment. Yup, that's what it felt like on Friday. You all probably think I'm some sort of nut.....track beast, track monster and now electric shock therapy. I wonder how many negative terms I can come up with during this training cycle.

Anyway.....

MISSION:

1000m @ 4:16 TIMES 5...ugh..

#1 4:10 opps....I couldn't seem to get it right the first time on the track and I felt like I just had the shit shocked out of me....ZAAAPPPP

#2 4:21 now that's more like it but I thought for SURE I was going to yak....had to bend over.

#3 4:16 NAILED it....with another wave of yakage....

#4 4:22 I couldn't hold on but I didn't feel like puking....maybe not pushing hard enough??

#5 4:22 I was toast.... literally

Sort of Accomplished

I'm not unhappy with my results because I did work my ass off and it wore me out so bad I went home and took a huge nap. Yipes....

Yesterday was a gorgeous day and a scheduled 20 mile run and I had my first fight with Running. Yes, I got SO mad I swear I teared up. I could not BELIEVE my GPS for one thing....when I got to mile 18 I felt like I really should have been on mile 19 and my legs were screaming for me to PLEASE stop. It was very frustrating and honestly I felt very emotional. I just couldn't push my legs to go a little faster on the last 2 miles. I was so mad but so glad to be done.

Results: 20 miles @ 8:55 total time 2:58

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! Mine was exceptional as always and I am so grateful for the love of my family, Wonder Boy and all the things we have in our lives. I couldn't be more blessed.

The New Year looms....and I have been thinking A LOT about where I was in my running this time last year. Whoa.....that will be a post in itself.

Next week is Hair of the Dog 5K on New Year's Day and Wonder Boy and I will run together. Then, Saturday the local Distance Series Tune up begins for the Shamrock Marathon. Good stuff to look forward to!!!

Hope everyone had a fantastic weekend!

Track Beast

2008-12-21T17:02:00.001-08:00

Ok, so the picture is a bit dramatic, but this is my mental image of track days.....facing a beast.

Gawd....track is ROUGH. I just can't seem to embrace the work that needs to be done. I'm like a whiney baby that doesn't want to go to school.

I procrastinated this one bad this week and ended up having to do my pukepeats the day after a 17 mile run. Yes friends, I did 17 miles yesterday with Running Buddy and I REALLY don't recommend hard track work after a seriously long run. Most experts would probably agree.

So here are the highlights:

-First track location.....CLOSED FOR REPAIRS...and flooded from this morning's rain. Uh oh...here's your chance to bail out!!!

-2nd track location.....lookin' good BUT DOORS ARE LOCKED. Damn.....here's another chance to bag this run.

-Nope....just climb the fence...no one will see you fall on your ass with your backpack strapped to your back as you attempt a 5 foot drop.

MISSION

15 min warm up (6 laps)

1200m @ 5:10 (actual time was 5:08)

1000m @ 4:16 (4:10 almost vomitted in my mouth on this lap...the horror.....)

800m @ 3:23 (3:27 oops ....went too hard on the last repeat)

600m @ 2:31 (2:20 YES!)

400m @ 1:39 (1:39...nailed it to the second)

10 min cool down (5 laps)

ACCOMPLISHED!

I was one happy mother to spit in the face of that track beast. I get such a rush of confidence when I hit all the track target times. But it doesn't last because I always come back to the track scared and nervous I will fail. Then I will be all pissed with myself.

I watched The Biggest Loser the other night (the finale) and the winner, Michelle, had a GREAT statement about her commitment to weight loss...she said "you just have to surrender yourself to the process." Well, she is right...in order for me to get faster, I have to surrender to the process it takes to GET faster. It just has to be.

I am going to whine and bitch about track for the next 14 weeks. But I know in the end...it will all pay off.

I drove away from the track smiling from ear to ear as the beast wandered off into the setting sun. I won the battle today.

I logged some big miles this week. I also got some crud from the petri dish that is my job....and I have had no voice for the last 3 days. Not good for a speech therapist. I am officially off for 2 weeks and I am looking forward to some non-rushed workouts and runs in the sunlight. Next weekend is my first 20 miler of this training cycle and I am PUMPED!

Hope everyone is enjoying the holidays!

Track Monster

2008-12-13T06:21:00.001-08:00

All I can say about yesterday's track run is *Blech* I should have just bagged that workout because my heart wasn't in it. I don't know why I dread the track so bad but I just do. Joy put it best when she compared it to Dante's Circles of Hell....apparently...if I read it correctly on Wikipidia....this is a divine comedy divide into 3 parts, Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. Well, if that doesn't describe track work than I don't know what else does...

First, you enter the circle of Hell.....running your ass off for 8oo meters or more (after a warm up) just hurts like HELL.

Second, you enter the circle of Purgatory.....running your ass off 4-8 MORE times for 800 meters puts you in a painful place of temporary punishment getting ready for the final step....

Paradise or Heaven.....isn't it heaven when you are finally finished with all that hell??

My track work continues to follow the FIRST plan for a BQ marathon finish. So, the prescription for this week's track included 4 x 800m for 3:23 min with 2 min rest intervals.

To add insult to injury the track was FLOODED as a result of some seriously torrential downpours we had the day before so the 2 back corners of the track were impassable and required a 10 second walk through the slushy, sloppy, muddy grass (which dirtied up my shoes!! Grr....)

Running Buddy saw the ugly mean side of my rude ass....which in turn will probably guarantee me a 15 mile long run by myself tomorrow...I deserve it for my poor behavior yesterday. I pouted like a baby because I was so not motivated. The running was challenging and the track was just plain flooded which interrupted the flow of my pace. I just wasn't happy.

So blech.....I think I may try to join the local running group on Tuesday nights for track work. Maybe if there is a group of people plodding along....I will feel more motivated to get the work done.

The rest of the running story continues......have a great weekend blogger friends!~

A Turkey Trot or a Trotting Turkey???

2008-12-08T18:11:00.000-08:00

This might be one of the dumbest posts ever...but tonight my dear friends.... I got chased by a turkey on my run. Yeah, you read it right....a FRICKIN' TURKEY!

I was 2 miles into my 6 miler tonight....crankin' a good 8 mpm pace....ZZ Top blazin' in my ear when I come upon a few "wild" baby turkeys. No big deal...I see them all the time on my runs. I really thought they were partidges or something. Who the hell knows??

Anyway, they were so cute all gathered in the middle of the street as I came running up on them. Then OUT OF THE BUSHES comes the mutha turkey and she was NOT happy. I'm tellin you this turkey was a full on big ass turkey!! What the hell?? That turkey came after me pissed off.

I have NEVER had such an experience. And really it wouldn't be blog worthy if it hadn't been for the fact that normally, I get chased by dogs..... and angry drivers or jerks on bikes. But a TURKEY?? AND....it chased me for about 2 min up the road with its wrinkly nasty neck and red goozle all stretched out ready to peck my freakin' leg! I really couldn't believe it was happening to me.

Ok, this really isn't the turkey that chased me....but this is EXACTLY what she looked like. That chase felt like it went on forever.

Tonight's run results:

6 miles in 47 min 47 seconds and a trip to the gym for some core work

Weekend run results:

51 min 10K with Running Buddy at the Army/Navy 10k (got 6th place)

1 hr 52 min 13 miler with Running Buddy in the CCCold and wind.....

Happy Monday friends...oh and a big ass shout out to Frayed Laces who scored BOSTON this weekend!!

Pace Setter

2008-12-05T15:43:00.001-08:00

I am so honored to be the featured Pace Setter runner this week on April and Amy's blog. Go check out my interview and also check out some of April and Amy's past posts....they are great bloggers...very funny and very inspiring. Thanks again girls!!

Ok, so tomorrow Running Buddy and I are going to run the Army/Navy 10. I am excited because this will be a race for my Running Buddy since I have already hit my 10K PR. Now it is her turn and we are both pretty excited. Although it does look to be pretty chilly.

Sunday, we will be running a 13 mile run hopefully at an 8:53 mpm pace. I am currently following the Boston Qualifying time training plan that is featured in the "Run Less Run Faster" book by Bill Pierce, Scott Murr and Ray Moss.

Running Buddy and I had an awesome track workout yesterday. I was less than motivated but my trusty partner kept my mind focused. We ran 3 x 1600's at a 7:05 mpm pace (*gasp*). That sucked and it was hard but I hit the mark and Running Buddy was just a few seconds behind me. We did 400m rest intervals in between with a warm up mile and a cool down mile. It was a great workout and very motivating.

Hope everyone has a great weekend! Thanks to all of you who keep up with my blog! Thanks again to Amy and April....

I will post race reports and details hopefully on Sunday! Good luck to anyone who is racing this weekend too-

Epic Happy Race Report

2008-11-29T11:41:00.000-08:00

To say that I am extremely happy with my finish time at Saturday's Race for Literacy 1/2 marathon is putting it mildly.

Here's the story in all it's glory:

Really, I had no aspirations for doing any great time on the course for the simple fact that Thursday's turkey trot was a huge PR and well, this girl just wanted to have fun on the run.

I woke up to cloudy dreary skies...but dry and it SEEMED relatively warm when I let the dog out first thing that morning. It just felt like 50 degrees and I had no doubt that I would wear shorts....and well just bundle my core like I always do.

I also couldn't help but feel just a little "weird" about the race because it was an inaugural event, it was out in a place I had no idea how to get to, I had no idea what the race route would be like, if there would be water, or how much support there would be on the course. Plus, I have been fighting a headache for 2 days and a bit of depression.

So, as I drove out to the race....and made a wrong turn....I said to myself "Self...this could be a bad day all together."

Luckily, with the help of Wonder Boy's reassurance and navigation, I was able to correct my wrong turn, loose no time on the drive and get to the race with 45 min to spare.

When I got there, parking was plenty. I saw the venue and proceeded to get out of my truck to get my number and WHOOOAAA.....burrrr....the wind was howling off the water and it was about 5-10 degrees colder than it was at my house.

Questions to self....Did you bring gloves? No.....Did you bring hat? No......Did you bring extra pants? No.... Will you freeze your nads off at this race? Uh...that would be a big fat YES!!!

Ok, just a tip for you all.....socks make good gloves. I had an extra pair of those.

Thank goodness I also had a windbreaker vest in my running bag.

So I sat in my truck for 40 min with the heat on as I waited for the start....watching all these people with gloves and hats and pants on. Damn. I figured I could hack the cold and wind for 2 hours right? I have been in tough conditions before. It was 45 degrees with a stiff North East wind.

I got out of the car for a warm up run and then hit the start line and my goodness...the field of runners was SO small. I figured...heck at best I could place 3rd in my age group. Hell, there were hardly any women.

The field stretched out fast and the freakiest part of the run was that at several moments on the course, I was completely alone with just traffic cones and I questioned where to go several times.

I started out very comfortable and I knew something fishy was up right away when mile marker 1 popped up and my watch said 5:45.....HA HA HA! In my wickedest wildest dreams....yeah, the course was not measured right for the first mile but it got back on target after mile 2 and I was showing 16:20 and that seemed right.

I was cruising man. I felt strong with the exception of shin pain for the first 3 miles....but it went away and never bothered me again. I figured it was from the Turkey Trot.

I hit all my mile markers just over an 8 mpm pace....I was grinning from ear to ear. I thought, if I can make it for the first half at that pace and still feel good, I may actually break my PR from Fleetweek.

Well, mile 6 came and went and I was still feeling like a champ and the watch said 49 min. Then my mind races and starts doing the math....I was on track for close to a 1 hour 45 min finish. My heart started to pound as I got very excited.

Mile 7 then mile 8 and all is still good in the legs, lungs and heart. Still doing some math in my head......

Now I'm on mile 9 and just a bit off of my goal time.....and I think ......can I pick it up for 4 more miles? Then, there was a head wind. Yuck....focus focus focus....

Then Missy and Beyonce came on the ipod just around mile 10 and I was feelin' the love! I kicked it up just a bit despite the head wind that followed me to the end.

I got to mile 12.2 at 1:38.......boy was I getting anxious....and my stomach started to churn.

As I got closer to the end....a very popular and local runner jumped out on the course and proceeded to pace me all the way to the mat and my official finish time was 1:46:16. Yipee skippy!!! I was happy but ready to barf.

Here I am ready to barf.....

Not only was my time great, I got second place in my age group....but then there were only 3 chicas in my age group! HA HA! I missed first place by 40 seconds....but I met the girl that beat me and I shook her hand and congratulated her at awards and she said to me "you kept me going-" Aww...snap!

So, I reflect on so many things today....particulary my readiness to actually train for a Boston Qualifying time for the next 17 weeks. I think I'm ready....I think I'm in a super amazing place in my running.

Just this time last year, I was struggling for 10 min miles.

For a girl who never believed in herself....I never believed I was pretty, or smart, or a good friend/girlfriend......I never believed I was strong or confident. I never believed I was an athelete or talented in anyway. I never believed I could......

But that is starting to change.....like maybe I believe I can do this. Maybe I am strong....maybe I am a real runner now.

Stay warm and dry on your runs my blogger pals.......

It's My Birthday......

2008-11-28T06:40:00.000-08:00

Ok, what a treat...yesterday was my birthday AND Thanksgiving......so it was certainly a day of being grateful. I am very grateful for so many things in my life and yesterday was an awesome day to reflect on how good my life is and I was able to rest my head on my pillow last night feeling very satisfied that I am one lucky chica for having all the things I have in my life.

Anyway, I found this funny clip from Cheers called The Kelly Song....and well I'm not so diva like Kelly was on Cheers...but I love me a good song with my name in it! Anyway..it IS my birthday....and it IS all about "me!" Right?? Whatev......

Yesterday started off with a killer Turkey Trot 10K in which I PR'd big time. It was such a fun run. I met up with a few folks from our local runner meet up group and the weather couldn't have been more perfect and the route is flat and fast too so it was just right for me to get some indication of how strong I am post marathon.....and well lets just stay I surprised myself completely.

ME and The local runner group

I actually started the race off a bit too fast.....I latched on to this group of runners wearing bright orange T-shirts....some team I suppose, but they were movin' and scootin'. After I passed the 2 mile marker and saw 15 flat minutes on my watch I knew I was not in good company so I slowed up a bit.....my lungs were starting to burn a little along with my shins. It was a good warm up though! I knew there was no way on earth I could hold 7:30 mpms for the whole 10K.

The race went on well despite my quick start....mile 4 was 30 min even on my watch and then I found 2 ladies who were running a good comfortable pace and I followed them to mile 6. My watch showed 46 min and some odd seconds......so it was on to the last .2 which I tried desperately to speed up on....and I got a little nauseous from the pace and when I crossed the mat and through the finish line shoot....someone else must have felt the same way as me because there was a nice pile of puke to hurdle over...and I felt the urge to gag....it was scary.

My finish time was 47 min and 40 seconds......that is about 5 min off my best 10K time. It was an average 7:40 mpm. Holy moly. I'll tell ya what...I feel like a different runner since OBX. I have NEVER been a very good runner....but things are really starting to change and I am cautiously optimistic for my Shamrock training. My new mantra is to "make or break" the 3:50 BQ time for my age. We'll see......

Anyway, after the race I piddled around the house and then headed to my mom's for some seriously sinful feasting. To say my stomach was full and I was uncomfortable is putting it mildly. I had the food baby going on big time. I fell asleep on the couch with my mom's miniature pinchers at least half a dozen times....and then around 11 pm I hobbled my fat ass on home.

I had a great birthday.....Running Buddy hooked me up with cake and a cool new PINK gear bag.....my dad sent some cashola and a cool new PINK hat....my mom hooked me up with some itunes gift cards and a cool new PINK Nintendo DS...(the kid in me still loves a good toy to play with)...and Wonder Boy got me a stand for my fish tank. All in all it was just a great day.

And hell no...I ain't going quietly into my 40's....I have a half marathon coming up tomorrow and its an inaugural event....always a favorite of mine to do the "first" of anything!!!

Here is a shot of the goods from yesterday.....blessed is what I am. Hope everyone had a great Turkey Day!

Out of the Funk and onto the Road....

2008-11-19T18:29:00.000-08:00

I think I'm coming out of the dark and the post marathon funk is finally dissipating. I must say that after a week and a half past marathon, it was a rough emotional ride. It's bad enough just finishing the marathon and then just "missing" it like a long lost loved one who has gone away. But, all the crap that happened with my Running Buddy getting sick just made the funk that much worse. But, I'm feeling much better and I'm back on the road with a new goal!!

So, my activities post marathon have included:

1. Some easy running

2. Some easy spinning on the trainer

3. Making a vision board for the BQ goal

4. Keeping my head above water at work

5. Enjoying a bit of down time between training cycles

6. Spending money on running stuff (new pink sunglasses, a winter running jacket....uh oh)

I did take it "easy" last week, as I was trying to recover....but it was tough. This past weekend I did a 10 miler and it felt awesome. It was hard to believe the weekend before I ran a marathon. I would safely say that I'm 90% recovered from OBX and in one week, I will start the training cycle for the Shamrock Marathon in March. It makes me so happy!

Worked sucked an egg roll today....it was just hectic and it started with temps in the 30's with a 20 degree wind chill and I had to drag the damn trash cans out. Then I realized I needed to get some candy for two 4th grade students who won a contest I have every month.....so I had to stop at the grocery store. Then I get to work and all hell broke loose and it was just a long day.

By the time it all ended, I felt like I needed a nap. I had a 6 miler planned after school, but I must admit, I had to really dig into my running heart and soul to get motivated....it's cold right now and I was tired.

But I have this killer new Nike running jacket:

Ok, I'm a huge Nike clothing fan....I can't stand their running shoes but their running gear kicks butt and this snappy new jacket is no exception. I saw it in last month's Runner's World and it looked like a must have. I'm picky about my cold weather wear because I hate to sweat and then freeze. This jacket truly does "wick" the sweat. I had an under armor base layer on with this jacket and although I did have a bit o' sweat going on, I stayed relatively dry in 38 degrees and I did NOT get a chill. This jacket also has REMOVABLE SLEEVES! Oh hurt me.....it turns into a vest too. I couldn't be more in love.

So, tonight I gave it a test drive. I put on my gloves, Brooks tights and new OBX head band that I bought from the expo and I swear when I looked in the bathroom mirror I looked like Mitzi the snow bunny ready for the slopes.

Then I met this fool:

Do you all know his crazy cold ass? Maybe you are too young....so if you are, here is a bit of his resume:

-Friends call him Snowmiser

-Whatever he touches...turns to snow

-Special abilities include projecting cold rays, lowering the temps of geographic areas and causing it to snow

-Preferred temperature: FREEZING

Whoa momma.....that cold blast from Snowmiser was a slap in the face. It took me at least a mile or two until my legs stopped feeling like popsicles. I hate WINTER....and it's not even here yet. Wonder Boy is trying to cheer me up with visions of a romantic raging fire this weekend.....in the fireplace people!

Anyway, after I finally warmed up and the Nike jacket did it's job, I was pleased with my 8mpm 6 mile run. It felt good to FINALLY be back on the road again!

Happy Wednesday blogger buds.......

Happy Endings and Friendship

2008-11-12T16:03:00.000-08:00

"Sometimes me think what is love....and then me think love is what last cookie is for. Me give up last cookie for you....." Cookie Monster

My Running Buddy's sacrifice to finish those last miserable, painful and grueling miles with me when I had already given up the fight, will never ever be forgotten.

I have been and still am in post marathon depression, which I googled by the way and it is a REAL condition. Wow, so in addition to some muscle soreness you get to experience a little emotional emptiness. I looked at my split times a little more closely and well....here is the low down:

8:48 min per mile for the 1/2 marathon (1:55)

8:49 min per mile up to the 20 mile mark (2:56)

BAM! 9:58 min per mile and the dreaded WALL

And well, I was right on target for my Boston Qualifying time of 3:50 until mile 20. Before I even knew my splits I had given up the race for Boston. Even Wonder Boy tried to encourage me not to give up around mile 18, but the pain was more than I felt confident I could endure.

And I whimpered about it to Running Buddy....and she had many words of encouragement. But I couldn't convince my heart.

And then I thought about how lucky I was to have a good friend finish one of the toughest races I have ever done....and I saw this quote:

"The most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well."(Pierre de Coubertin)

And now I put this marathon to rest and move on to the next.....

My Most Handsome Hero

2008-11-11T19:09:00.001-08:00

Although Veteran's Day is almost over, I am compelled tonight to send my thoughts and prayers to all the veterans who have and are serving this great country. Whenever I go to races big or small, and they play the National Anthem and say the Pledge of Allegiance, I almost always tear up. Our community here in Hampton Roads is very military....and well, my biggest military hero is my Dad.......

So tonight, I am dedicating a late evening post to my most hansome military hero. Although my parents are divorced and my Dad has lived far away from me for most of my life, he has always been there for me and has always given to me whenever I was in need. I have spent all of my life with my mother, but still in many ways I am like my Dad.

He served in the Navy for several years and fought in the Vietnam war when I was just a small child. My mother missed my father terribly while he was deployed on his ship....there are still several love letters and poems that fill photo albums and scrapbooks. My mother recalls still with sadness in her heart, her fear of my father being at war, her loneliness of having a small child all alone.....the longing for the love of her life.

It's a story I am reminded of on a daily basis as I see the parents of the children I work with separate from their families on deployment. It is the ultimate sacrifice.

Thank you Dad for you gallant and brave service to our country. You are and always will be my most handsome hero.....love from your Irish Girl.....

Race Report

2008-11-10T08:26:00.001-08:00

The weekend turned out very nice and the marathon was so much fun. I managed to PR this one with a finish time of 3:58:03. My main goal was to break 4 hours and I did it! All in all...I'm pretty darn happy with the race itself. The conditions couldn't have been more perfect. Here's the story:

Saturday morning, I got awake bright and earlier with knots and nerves in my stomach. Nothing new....but I was also obsessed with my disappointment over not going to the race with Running Buddy, so you can imagine the anxieties and emotions I was having.

Anyway, Wonder Boy and I headed south together and he did his best to cheer me up and help calm my nerves. We had some good laughs in the truck on the way down. The weather was very cooperative so that also eased my mind. I couldn't seem to shake my sadness over not having my partner so I texted her throughout the day.

We made it to the expo and it was PACKED full of runners. I picked up my packet and shwag bag and then it was time for some retail therapy. Poor Wonder Boy...he doesn't do crowds, so when I said to him "Ok! Let's go look around!" his eyes went googly and he said "Sh-sh-shop??" I had to explain to him that it was part of the marathon experience and there was no way I was going to pass it up.

The goodies were awesome....a booty bag, hair scrunchies, power bars, electrolyte samples, a huggy and some cereal...yummy

After expo, we checked out the surf and checked into the hotel and began the relaxation process.

We finally made it out to dinner around 6pm. I of course indulged in a few beers for nerve calming purposes. We had a good meal and it was a nice distraction to my nerves.

Back to the hotel and a feeble attempt to get my mind off of the marathon. We watched stupid movies, I texted Running Buddy, watched more stupid movies and then packed my stuff up for the race.

What an interesting night of sleep. I took one Tylenol PM to shake the restlessness and begged Wonder Boy to leave the TV on....which he graciously did. But because he has trouble sleeping without some sort of "white noise" he turned on the a/c/heat unit fan. I never noticed it until about 20min after I fell asleep and Wonder Boy turned off the TV. I woke right up and screeched "What is THAT??" It was a struggle between who would get sleep...me or Wonder Boy. Thankfully, he had ear plugs. I plugged them in and attempted to resume some sleep.

But, every hour on the hour starting promptly at 2am I woke up...in a sweat, and then cold, sweat, cold, sweat, cold, shiver.....until about 4:30am. It was a rough night of sleep. Seems I didn't need the 3 alarms plus wake up call that I had set for 5am.

I was up and moving and ready to hit the start line around 6am. The sunrise was breath taking.

We got to the start early and I was able to get in a good warm up run. I think all in all it was a perfect beginning.

Then gun went off and the game was on.

I did not have my GPS. So, I had no idea of my pace. This marathon had no pace groups either. I was completely on my own with the exception of a sticker I made for my sleeve that had split times for a 3:50 finish.

I hit every mark with a 2min cushion time up until the 1/2 marathon point. I suppose that was bad in the end for me. I did read somewhere that it's better to pace yourself and not try to put "time in the bank" with a faster pace. I was so comfortable though. My first mile was a 9mpm....then I cranked up to just over 8:30mpm. I'm not sure this was a good idea since NONE of my really long runs were done at this pace. But I thought "hey, you have fresh legs and you ran your 1/2 marathon at 8:24mpm...shouldn't you be able to hold at least an 8:50mpm???" Hmpf.....

Well, as I feared, the 2.5 mile jaunt through Nags Head Woods zapped me. That darn trail is too hilly. I don't mind the packed dirt....but I HATED the curvy and hilly aspect of it. I could feel my heart rate go too high....my thighs started to burn...I started to get hungry but I had so much anxiety in my stomach. I knew Running Buddy was waiting somewhere on the course for me and I was anxious about that. Things started to crumble a little in those woods.

And to add injury to insult...the last half mile is a single track, mulch packed trail that is EXTREMELY hilly and ends with a climb out of the woods. I was huffing and puffing as I exited the woods. I crossed the 13.1 mat at 1:55 but boy was I feeling a little winded.

Running Buddy met me there along with her family, fiance' and Wonder Boy. It was SO good to see them all. They had signs and cheers and I wanted to cry. Running Buddy came up to me and started to run with me....taking my sweaty shirt.....making sure I had what I needed. All I could say was say "I miss you." She reassured me and said that she would meet me again at mile 20. And then she was gone and I was back on my own but feeling a little stronger and happy that I had seen my partner.

I cruised along from about mile 14 until around mile 18 when I noticed my legs were feeling quite tired. I was still hitting my time marks....I think I hit mile 17 at 2:30. But I was starting to get concerned that I wouldn't hit the 2:55 mark necessary to make the 3:50 finish. My legs were really starting to loose their strength.

By the time I hit mile 18.5 I knew things were not going good with the legs. My thighs were KILLING me and all I wanted to do was pop out from the sound side part of the run (which is also curvy and rolling with some hills.) and see Running Buddy for some encouragement.

As I came around the turn exiting the sound side and onto the highway, I knew the run for 3:50 was over.....I was past mile 19 and the 2:55 mark was slowly creeping up....

Finally, mile 20 and I see my Running Buddy....and she was ready to run. What a RELIEF to see my partner.....my calming presence. By this time, the pain was horrible.

In the marathon, I see the miles past 20 as a big mystery. Every marathon is different on those last 6 miles. You run the 20 miles and you get to the last 6....and the finish line is separated by a double steel door....and you go in through the door and its dark. The soul of the marathon sits there in a big chair with a drink and cigarette and it looks at you and laughs and says "you think you can get through this part of my darkest room and succeed? Good luck!" and then it throws pain at you in every place you never thought possible. I had my ass handed to me on a shiny silver platter. I got humbled and humiliated on those last 6 miles inflicted on me by the marathon because I attempted a pace that was beyond my ability to sustain.

Thank goodness for Running Buddy....my angel....who graciously talked me through those last miles....and reminded me of how strong I am....how inspiring I am...and how proud she was of me. I couldn't speak...only grunts and a few occasional giggles. Then there was silence and then only the sound of my labored breathing.

And occasionally she would try to sing to me...like the Rocky theme...and something about "don't you know that you are my hero...." and all I could do was shush her....because ugh! No songs!! Especially those!

Then the bridge.....it took whatever was left in my legs. I could barely climb. And when I got to the other end....Running Buddy saw a side of me that she has never seen.....a demoralized, tired, and weak runner. And then she said something to the extent of "Running the last 6 miles and finishing this marathon with you means more to me than any time I could have gotten if I had run this race." I would have cried inconsolably on any other occasion.....but I was tired. I was so deeply moved. It was a very emotional moment for me.

I tried to pick up the pace as I saw the 3:50 time hit my watch. I only had less than a mile at that point but I was doing the marathon shuffle. Running Buddy and I made it to the last .2 and we crossed the mat together. It was so much fun. I was in so much pain.

The after race party was nice. I had a few beers and there was some good music. It was such a gorgeous day and now marathon number 6 is in the bag!!!

Running Buddy and her family left to come back to Virginia Beach after we all hung around for awhile. I will selfishly confess that I wished I could have spent the whole rest of the afternoon with my running partner, just the two of us, drinking a few more beers and rattling her ear off about my 26 mile journey. I just felt very attached to my partner at that time and knew that she would be the only one that would really understand the story and listen attentively to every gory detail. Sometimes I think only runners really understand each other.

But we all said our good byes...and Wonder Boy and I went to lunch and I had a very delicious meal and some more beer!! It was all good.

After I got home, I spent some time with my mom. I ended up falling asleep for a little while with her dogs all wrapped up with me, a warm blanket in a big ol' lazy boy chair. And I felt like a little kid again....being at my mom's and sleeping peacefully as she sat with me.

Today, I am home resting and recovering and there is no school tomorrow so I ended up with a 4 day weekend!! I really want to start running again. I hope to be back on the road again soon. Shamrock training cycle begins in 3 weeks!!

Hope everyone had a great weekend! I will post a few more pics this week...hopefully of Running Buddy and I crossing the finish line!

Letting Go

2008-11-06T19:06:00.000-08:00

Well it's official...Running Buddy has the flu and has been fighting a fever all week. My biggest nightmare has come true. I am so sad, I can't even focus on the marathon this Sunday.

I think we were both hoping and praying that things would get better yesterday, but her fever spiked to 101.4 last night and although today she feels better, she is tired and worn out from fighting the war.

So, the decision is for her to not run Outer Banks this weekend. I can't say I know how SHE feels because I have always been able to run my races and meet my goals. I got sick one time...last year, when I ran the Shamrock Marathon with Running Buddy....and I made it through. So, I really don't know what it feels like to throw in the towel....or DNF for that matter.

I have so much respect for my best Running Buddy for making the admirable decision to not run on Sunday and jeopardize her health...because in the long run...it just isn't worth it.

But I am SO sad that it has ended this way for her with all that we have been through. All the miles.....all the hours of talking....coaching and hoping for a better time on Running Buddy's second marathon. She put it perfectly tonight...."I can't seem to put closure on this....." and really...... how do you put closure on 18 weeks of training and then not even make it to the start line?

I have all the respect in the world....for those folks who train for marathons and triathlons...specifically Ironman....and get sick or injured after months and months of hard work.

I'm selfishly sad because I trained Running Buddy and I want her to finish this thing. But I can't even imagine what she is feeling or going through....not being able to run...knowing I AM running.....and thinking about all the hard work she has done and not being able to run the race.

How is it that these little things seem so big and so unfair?

I ran 4 miles tonight in the dark and in the rain....and it couldn't have been more depressing. I know that in order for me to do my best on Sunday...I have to let it go. I need to accept the fact that my best running bud got sick and can't run and that after she gets well we will pick up where we left off.

But until then, I have to cry a little, take a deep breath and breathe...and hope that when this weekend is all over, I will have put closure on a journey we started together and I ended for us both.

Oh my....just 3 more days. Wonder Boy and I will travel south for my 6th marathon Saturday morning. Tomorrow, I am taking a half day off from work and I am going to go have lunch with my biggest fan....my mom...who saw me through my first Outer Banks Marathon. I think I will try to squeeze a 3 miler in down at the beach when I leave from school. After lunch with my mom, Wonder Boy and I will go surfing. It will ultimately calm my nerves and take my mind off my sadness.

I am excited about the marathon on Sunday, but I feel rather lonely.

Ok, in honor of Running Buddy's hard work and determination....I promise to run hard, run fast and remember the power of pink.

Damn...this sucks.

Thanks blogger buddies for keeping in touch! I will blog before I leave on Saturday and then post my race report. Please, pretty please, end me some goooood vibes!!!!!

Waiting Game

2008-11-03T17:32:00.000-08:00

This week is driving me nuts already. Five days to go and I can't stand waiting. Yes, waiting for the marathon. I feel ready to go...I just wanna go. I want to just run and I can't because I'm on taper. I feel strong and ready and I can't do anything about it.

So, I'm spending obscene amounts of money on running stuff. I just bought a new top, pink running bra and jacket for this weekend. It made me feel good. I also bought this cute little accessory at a local running shop:

And it's PINK! Whoo hoo! Actually, I saw it when I picked up my race packet for the Sandman Triathlon back in September and I have been wanting to have it ever since.

Here is the run down on my workouts since taper started. Just some 5 milers and few 4 milers with Running Buddy. We had a fun 10 mile local trail run with some folks from the running meet up group on Saturday. I think Running Buddy got a little eye opener.....the run was a little bit of a challenge since the route had some single track trails, lots of sand and a few steep hills with more sand.

Sunday, we only did an easy 5 miler and then I couldn't stand it....the weather was just too perfect so I took out my Cannondale carbon fiber bike and rode 54 miles. Really, I just cruised it was SUCH a gorgeous day.

Today, since the time has changed, I did an easy 5 miler in the dark with all my blinking and flashing lights. I looked like a Christmas tree. Then I went and spent more money.

Then I got the dreaded text message from my Running Buddy....."I have a 100.1 fever and I'm sick" We are 5 days out from our marathon. I'm so worried.

Off to vote tomorrow so I will be forced into a much needed rest day. Then, I sit and wait....and wait...and wait....until Sunday.

Funny Campaign Add

2008-11-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

Anyone out there tired of the campaign adds? Man, its just getting old and in some cases just dirty....like with the mud slinging and all with some of the local candidates.

I just found this very funny SNL spoof on campaign adds. Hope you get a good laugh.

I've been cheating a little on the blogging....I am on taper and ready to pull out my hair. Not much is going on in my running scene other than trying to keep myself sane until the marathon. I'm just ready to do the marathon.

I promise more substantial blog material tomorrow.

Spooky Running

2008-10-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

Found this YouTube clip and thought it was appropriate for the spirit of Halloween! I think Running Buddy and I are going to dress up in tacky Halloween wear on our runs next week.

Running Buddy and I have had a great week of running. We are officially on taper and I am having on and off bouts of nerves and anxiety for the marathon. Running Buddy is picking up the slack and planning activities for the next 2 weeks to help me keep my mind occupied. She is such a good friend.

We are on for a 15 miler tomorrow and then that pretty much wraps up any long running we have until we meet the 26.2 in North Carolina. We are both tremendously excited.

Have a great weekend blog buddies!

A Light at The End of the Tunnel

2008-10-19T11:11:00.000-07:00

Running Buddy and I completed our last 20 miler today and I think we are finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. We have been struggling with these last few long runs and Running Buddy has been mostly compelled to stop dead in her tracks just before or slightly after the half marathon point. She gets discouraged and then well, the run just sucks from there and mentally its over in her head.

But, this time, knowing it was our last shot at a good long run.....and the last time we will flirt with the marathon distance until the marathon......I planned the pace out just right based on her 1/2 marathon time from last weekend's Fleetweek race.

I crunched out some numbers and came up with a 3 hour and 10 min finish based on a 9:45 mpm pace for the first 13.1 miles and then a negative split time of 9:30 mpm for the last 7.

And BAM! We did it without stopping (except for a brief period to drink and eat some shot blocks). Not only did we make it....we did the last mile at 8:30. I have NEVER seen my Running Buddy finish so strong. We knocked out the 20 miles in 3 hours and 12 min. I have to add that there was an extremely stiff north wind blowing today at 15mph sustained with gusts up to 20 at the beach.

It was the confidence boost Running Buddy needed for OBX coming up in 3 weeks.

I got a little emotional in the car on my way home as this last 20 miler is a little bitter sweet. I have put so much of my own heart and soul into helping Running Buddy achieve her goal and at the same time get myself to a better level of running that I am completely emotionally drained as much as I am physically tired from the rigors of this training cycle.

I just can't believe I did it without quitting because, unfortunately, its a nasty little character flaw of mine (quitting). Many times, I was ready to quit and let Running Buddy handle her own training. But after today's run....it's been all worth it.

Now, I can sit back and taper with a smile....let Running Buddy go do her thing at OBX and know that I was a part of getting her to her goal.

As far as the emotional emptiness goes......I know I gave it all.....the advice.....the motivation.....the pushing and coaching and just being there for every run....knowing when to let go and when to stay. It has brought me to my knees today. As of this last run, it's out of my hands and Running Buddy has to make the rest happen on her own. As far as the race goes.....we decided to run at our own paces. It's not what my heart wants because for me....it's all about the love of running and the camaraderie NOT about speed. But it's what my partner would prefer to do for for fear of holding me back.

Well now, on a lighter note....here are some pictures to make you laugh. They are indeed a little better than the last race but still....I just DONT take a good picture!

Hope everyone had a fantabulous weekend!

BEFORE (Fleetweek 2006)

AFTER (Fleetweek 2008)

HAPPY ME! Another PR!

I've Been Tagged!

2008-10-15T17:30:00.000-07:00

YAH! I have been tagged! Thanks Joy! So, here are a few random but boring things about me...the disclaimer...it REALLY is boring but here goes:

1. I am an absolute Soap Opera freak. I am obsessed with All My Children, One Life to Live, and General Hospital. I have been watching them since I was in the 5th grade. Um...if my math is correct that puts me at wasting several hours of approximately 30 years of my life engrossed in soaps.

2. I once fell through the ice when I was little and nearly drowned. My first brush with death. Oh, that's a bit morbid.

3. I'm a certified diver but I'm terrified of drowning. See #2

4. I once rode an elevator with Michael Jordan. Yummy...

5. I hate cooking and I don't know how. If it doesn't come in a bag, can or box, I don't mess with cooking unless someone does it for me. I am blessed to be in love with a "man's man" who loves to eat and cook.

6. I was a band geek and played the clarinet from junior high school until high school. It was the most amazing experience.

This one is for my blogger friend Joy.....my hair isn't as big but it's still a lot of hair!

Wardrobe Make Over

2008-10-14T16:52:00.000-07:00

I had a rough start to my morning today. First, I stayed up way too late reading tons of blogs. It's like I have become obsessed. Plus, I had two bloody mary's. And, I did a tempo run with Running Buddy yesterday for 7 miles followed by a 1 hour spin in front of Dancing With the Stars.

When the alarm went off this morning, I felt like poop. I dragged myself to the shower, ate my breakfast and poofed my hair. Then, I ironed some clothes for work. I wore a my gray capri pants, 'cuz it's still summer around here. The capris have a zipper on the side. Well, this zipper has been giving me grief for awhile, and well today it decided it was done.

It jammed up, got caught in part of the pants and wouldn't budge. It would have taken a pair of pliers to get it unstuck. I was breaking a sweat trying to get it unstuck.

I had 5 min before I needed to get out the door and I was still arguing with the zipper. I finally said F-it, and I ironed another pair of pants. I was pissed.

And it made me realize, it's time to go clothes shopping. OH THE HORROR!

I hate shopping for clothes. Nothing ever looks good on me, I'm fashionably retarded and well, I just don't have the patience.

Do I see things that are cute? Yes. Do I think they would look cute on ME? No.

But, my current wardrobe is showing its age along with its owner.....and it's time for a wardrobe make over.

Now if only I had the money.

In honor of the dreaded dressing room experience, I found this HILARIOUS video about trying on clothes. Enjoy...

Fleetweek pictures to follow tomorrow......

Hitting the Mark

2008-10-12T15:38:00.000-07:00

What a great day and awesome race the Fleetweek 1/2 Marathon was!! Honestly, I couldn't have prayed harder for the amazing weather conditions and flat route. It made a PR that much easier to obtain.

The day started out like every race Running Buddy and I go to together. She came to my house just a few minutes late and had just gotten up as usual. It was a bit cool in the morning with a breeze but otherwise, perfect conditions for running.

We got there in plenty of time to warm up, walk around, make one last potty stop and get a good spot at the start line.

So the big decision for me was which pace group to follow. I chickened out of the 1:45 pace group and went with the 1:52. I guess I was just too afraid of starting the race at an 8 min mile. I think it might have been too much for me to handle. Part of me says I could have done it, but I don't think it would have been a very pretty ending.

There were a few familiar faces in the 1:52 pace group and that was good too.

Running Buddy got into the 2:oo hour pace group. She has been fighting funk all week but is much better this weekend than last with just some lung chunks and loose nasal drips. I'm still trying to teach her the fine art of dry blowing......

I have to admit I got choked up leaving her behind in the 2:00 hour pace group. It was very hard not running with her but she completely talked me out of letting me go slower with her. For me, it's all about the camaraderie and friendship. But Running Buddy sees it a bit differently and well, we just ran our own paces and I'm finally ok with that.

The 8:25 mpm was EXTREMELY comfortable for me. I had no trouble keeping up, breathing or pacing. It just felt so easy. One of the group leaders started to get a bit ahead of that pace and I stayed with her. Then the other leaders yelled for her to slow down. And she did.....and I kept going. And at that point, I was no longer with the pace group.

I was on my own.

Not that I was afraid, but I had to be VERY aware of my speed. I wasn't wearing Garmin so I had to do the stupid math in my head with just my watch.

I had no trouble pacing myself at all for the whole race.

I did get a bit of a belly ache around mile 9 when I took some water. I got a little nervous that maybe the water had some funk in it. My belly ache started to get my attention and I thought to myself......"how could I be nauseous after being hungry at the start line??"

Then I burped.

And it was all good.

Oh, and I got a stupid blister too. It felt like a rock at first. Then I knew after about 10 min I was working a blister.

At mile 10, I decided to kick it up. My split was an 8:14 mpm after a steady tempo of 8:24.

I finished the race in 1:49:53. My age group place was 6th out of 60 women. I couldn't be happier.

And....I am so happy with my training up to this point for the Outer Banks. So far, it's all falling into place.

And as far as my Running Buddy goes.....its a shout out to her....she is FINALLY starting to show some awesome progress and I am so encouraged for Outer Banks and Shamrock in March. Lately, we have been having some tough runs.

Running Buddy went out too fast in the beginning and started to slow after mile 10. She learned a lesson. But overall, girlfriend finished in 1:59. The goal was 2 hours. I'm one proud partner....and one very blessed friend to have such a great running pal.

The Fleetweek 1/2 Marathon continues to be one of my local favorites. There is nothing more humbling and inspiring then running past the huge air craft carriers parked up on the docks at the Naval Base. It's so amazing and so beautiful.

Tomorrow, Running Buddy and I will do a recovery run and then I hope to sit down and plan out the last 2 weeks of real running before taper madness begins!

Stupid Nerves

2008-10-11T05:59:00.000-07:00

I have been sitting on pins and needles since Wednesday about the half marathon coming up tomorrow. Ugg....its randomly wreaking havoc on my digestive system too.

Not that I don't think I can do this thing tomorrow....lord knows I have run several half marathons. But my expectations for tomorrow are making me nuts in my head and causing me to have obsessive thoughts about pace and time and performance....and lions and tigers and bears oh my!

I went for a 7 mile race pace run last night to try to ease my jitters. There was a TERRIBLE head wind up the boardwalk for the first 3.5 miles but I managed to hold an 8:30mpm. Of course the turn around was great and I held a 7:30mpm for the rest of the way. Total time was roughly 55 min. Although it should make me feel confident....it really doesn't because my mind always wanders to the "cup half empty" side.....and I start saying to myself "what if my ankle starts to hurt, what if there is a headwind, what if my hammies start to slow me down??"

I WHAT IF myself to DEATH.

Then the nerves roll in when I think about trying to run somewhere between an 8mpm and an 8:15. Just don't know if I can do it.

So I was in a nervous funk last night that ruined my evening with Wonder Boy.

I made the mistake of watching "Spirit of the Marathon" in the middle of the night last night which gave me freaky dreams.

An absolute MUST SEE for those of you obsessed with the Marathon

I'm beginning to sound like a nut case! AH....just breath......

Well, off to go pick up my packet for tomorrow's race.

If nothing else, I'm very excited to be running this 1/2 marathon knowing there are so many others out there pounding the pavement too this weekend! I look forward to stalking everyone's race reports!

Saturday Morning Reflections

2008-10-04T06:15:00.000-07:00

First, let me say how SUWEET it is to sleep in. The 5:30 wake up time for work is a killer. So, when I get to stay in that wonderful heaven called THE BED until 8 snuggled with the stinky Golden Retriever....it's all good.

I just realized I haven't blogged all week.

My life is boring.

The running is good and I am only 3 weeks to *taper madness*. I actually went social last night and ran with a group of local folks (mostly dudes) for a 4 mile recovery run and then we stopped at a local beach watering hole for a beer. That was a huge treat for me and a major milestone because #1....I'm socially retarded and #2....I am always intimidated running with dudes....especially young ones.

I am pretty sore and tired this weekend from the massive amount of miles I have accumulated in the last 2 weeks. I ran 20 milers for the last 2 weekends with Running Buddy and had two 10 mile mid week runs. I totalled 58 miles in the ol' Asics last week and this week I pulled off another 7:50 mpm 9 mile tempo run. I do feel some tightness in my hamstrings and soreness in the left hip....SURPRISE! Yeah Yeah, I know...I am backing down big time this week. I do have the 1/2 marathon to consider next Sunday so it's going to be all about biking but still running with fewer miles next week. Gotta freshin' up!

Ok, I'm posting these pictures only so I can give my blogger buds a good laugh. The Neptune 8k photo finish shots are the worst pictures EVAR. They are so bad they almost deserve some kind of trashy award. Here they is:

I call this one WHAT'S THAT SMELL??!!

Do I look like a man?

Ok, a little better but SHEESH! What kind of facial expression is going on?

Really, its the rain

I am really getting excited for the Fleetweek 1/2 marathon and I can't decide if I want to try to get in the 1:45 pace group. That means an 8 mpm run for 13 miles and not ONE SECOND slower. I'm afraid if I get in that group and I can't hang on I will hate myself.

Oh the pressure!

The jury is still out on the East Coast. Have a fantab weekend friends!

My Rapture is a Rainstorm

2008-09-27T11:46:00.000-07:00

Today was the Neptune Festival 8K in Virginia Beach and of course I signed up a little late this year due to the freaky weather we have been experiencing for the last week. We had a nasty Nor' Easter blow in and it brought several inches of rain and very windy conditions earlier in the week. It made training very interesting.

But by today, things were supposed to clear out. Hmpf.....more lies.

I got up this morning to check the radar and sure enough.....storms loomed off the coast. I wasn't sure if those storms would roll our way but it wasn't looking good when I headed out the door. Those dark mean clouds that lay low in the sky were swarming as I headed to the oceanfront.

By the time I got there, the drizzle started. By the time I picked up my packet, it was raining.

I met up with a few of my running friends and we all huddled under the Old Lighthouse Museum until the start. There were probably 30 people huddled up together. By the time they called everyone to the start line, it was POURING down raining.

The gun went off and I ran my heart out....quick start or not I just wanted to get it over with. I couldn't believe how hard it was raining and it seemed like it only rained harder as we made our way up the beach.

As we came around our first turn, I saw a guy running ahead of me with a jersey on that had a holy cross on the back. It struck me at first, being a slightly spiritual and part time catholic person. Could it be a sign?

We all plodded up the rain soaked and puddle ridden street with the wind to our back. I didn't wear my ipod for obvious reasons so it was a different experience to hear people breathing and wet shoes hitting the pavement.

Of course I forgot to start my watch, so when I looked down at the 5k mark....there was a big fat 0:00! I seem to be having a problem with this.

I started to feel the pace on the 5k. I was poopin' out for sure. So, I latched on to some dudes who seemed to be maintaining a decent pace.

I never really look up when I am running hard and getting tired. I get less observant too. So when I started to follow these guys, I only noticed one thing.....a guy with untied shoelaces. I named him "shoelace guy" and he was pacing me pretty good.

I stared at his flopping shoelace for the last 1.9 miles. All I could think about was how much I wish I could bend down and tie his shoe.

And then he ramped it up for the last maybe .3 miles and I couldn't hang on to the finish. And I never noticed anything more about him other than his flopping shoelace.

So I cranked it up and finished that 8K run in 38 min. As I crossed the mat....."shoelace guy"came up and congratulated me. He said....

"Great run....you helped me so much. Thank you, that was just a great run and you really got me through to the end."

I was so touched that I introduced myself and shook his hand. He said "My name is Keith and I'm out here running for my mom who died last year of cancer." And that is when I noticed the holy cross on the back of his jersey.....he was the dude with the cross I saw earlier in the race.

I remember mumbling something out of my mouth....I don't know.... but I was so overcome with emotion that I walked away with the biggest lump in my throat and by the time I got to the boardwalk, I was in a full on cry. I cried because of how much I love my own mother. I cried because I helped Keith push himself to the end in honor of his mother.....and he was a total stranger.

I'm a sap.

Either way, here is the result......First Place in my age group

Thanks for the awesome pace Keith-aka "Shoelace guy"

It rained most of the morning and through awards ceremony. I was cold and damp and shivering but it was worth the wait to get the plaque. HA! I'm getting a pretty cheesy collection of this stuff.

All in all, my running keeps getting better. I have reached a new level physically and emotionally and I keep dreaming about qualifying for Boston.

No more races until Fleetweek 1/2 in 2 weeks. The rubber hits the road here.

The story continues on the East Coast. Have a good weekend blogger buddies!!

The Ultimate Liar.....

2008-09-22T18:16:00.001-07:00

Oh how lies hurt us. Tonight, my Garmin GPS was the ultimate liar. I have such an obsessive love relationship with that stupid thing. I believe everything it tells me from speed, heart rate, and calories burned. It could sell me ocean front property in Arizona.

But tonight IT betrayed my trust.

I should have known something was wrong. Even charged up this weekend, Saturday it did something TOTALLY do wacky do. It was showing me 17 miles, and no more than 2 minutes into a walk....the stupid thing shot to 20 miles. HA! How funny is that?!

Running Buddy and I only wished it could have been true. That was completely strange.

But I chalked it up to cloudy skies and some trees. Tonight again, the skies were cloudy and I was on a route with some trees. And right on cue.....the GPS blimps off and on losing its signal. I figured it would just "catch up" with itself.

WRONG.

It just lies...that's what it does. It lies to you and makes you think you are going S-L-O-W-E-R than you think when you are giving your absolute all.

I knew the lies were on when I got to a point on my route when I KNEW I had gone at least 7 miles (I was on a 10 mile tempo run tonight). Then, I finally hit the 8 mile mark sweating and breathing hard, quads a burnin' and the time says 1 hr and 15 min. I knew that couldn't possibly be my pace. BUT....I did do 45 miles on the bike yesterday and well....just maybe the legs are tired and I'm feeling more tired than usual.

But when it blinked mile 9 and I was coming up on an hour and a half, I just knew it couldn't be true.....IT HAD TO BE A LIE.

So, I cranked it up fast and hard on that last mile and came in at 1 hr. 28 min and 13 sec. And I was pooped.....and the GPS said 8:49 mpm. I couldn't believe I was just under a 9 mpm pace considering my effort the whole way. IT HAD TO BE A LIE. I know what a 9 min. mile feels like.

The compulsive freak in me decided to DRIVE the route. I had to know the truth.

I packed the Golden Retriever in the car and drove out my 10 mile route.

And the GPS LIED. I ran 11 miles.

Son of a bitch......

And I ran 11 miles in under an hour and a half. BOO HAAA!!!!!

I looked up the pace and low and behold.....8 min per mile. HAPPY HAPPY JOY JOY!

But I'm so sad and hurt....and it might be time for a divorce. I can't be playing these games with the electronic equipment. The last piece of electronic equipment to die was my ipod about a week ago. Now....GPS seems to be on its last leg too. I think the sweat and rain and elements are finally taking its toll.

Soooo, should I replace it with the "new" and very attractive Garmin GPS that looks more like a watch?? I just don't have that kind of money. But I'm such a slave to the pace and distance. I hate running the same route over and over. I want the flexibility of just going anywhere and having a GPS to tell me miles. And pace which has so become my obsession.

But....I need the truth. I can't live without the truth. NO MORE LIES........

REST IN PEACE LIAR.......

Trouble times 20....

2008-09-21T18:40:00.000-07:00

"It won't be pretty...." says Running Buddy last Friday as we contemplated doing our 20 miler together this weekend.

She was right....our 20 miler was anything but pretty. It was down right difficult...and coyote ugly...and all that pain had to offer.

It started off with poor wind conditions. The wind must have been blowing steadily at 15-20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph at the beach. It has been like that for the last few days as the North East winds have been howling here on the East Coast despite the perfect temps and weather overall.

But Saturday....the winds were howling. It was cool and cloudy. Otherwise, a picture perfect day for running 20 miles.

I was nervous....not for Running Buddy but for myself. It's the first 20 miler on our training schedule and we are about 7 weeks out from the marathon. This 20 miler is what I have been working up to all summer.

Running Buddy and I met at her condo ready to roll. Except for some mild soreness from Friday's 9 miler (in the wind), all was good with us.

We started off head on into the wind on the boardwalk for about 6 miles. Gust after gust after gust. We would speed up then slow down...speed up...you get the idea.

We made it to the 6 mile turn around point feeling pretty good....except I had to pee. Yup....had to pee...so for the next 3 miles, I'm scoping out a squat spot.

Luckily for me and Running Buddy, who was ready to walk it out a bit, I find a nice area with lots of foliage....and a small path. I headed towards it and ducked on in. Low and behold.....THORNS GALORE. Yipes.....I managed to navigate a spot....squated carefully as to not whizz on my new Asics and finished on up. As I exited this thorn forest...I got raped and scratched all over my legs and arms. Yuck...but I felt better!

We continued on our run in the tailwind this time. Ah...what a relief to run quickly with little effort. We got back on the boardwalk and ran peacefully for next few miles. Passed a quaint wedding. Passed several tourists still hanging around. Watched the angry surf.

Then we hobbled up the bridge and headed south into our teen miles. "Just make it to Boneshakers (biker bar)" Running Buddy says....and we keep a steady pace in the tailwind still, all the way to the end where the bar is.

We stop, drink, stretch and continue on for the last part of this run that has gone pretty well at this point. At least that is what I thought. Then the trouble began. The fight for survival was on.

We only made it about a mile and a half when Running Buddy gave up. She stopped dead cold in her tracks and said "I gotta stop and I think I have to sit down." So we sit. Both of us out of water and food and tired and Running Buddy starts to experience pain and dizziness that she has never experienced. We chat...I try to make her laugh....I eat the last 2 snickers candies....we decide to move on.

And it just got worse. Running Buddy is dehydrated...bloated and sick from chugging too much water.

Then she hit the wall.

The run was over at mile 17. She could no longer run. Honestly, my body was shot from all the stopping and going we had done for the last 5 miles.

Walking the last 3 miles was pretty tough physically and very demoralizing emotionally for me. I had to watch Running Buddy suffer AGAIN. It is so hard watching someone you care about go through the pains and agonies that the long hard miles have to offer. But it IS the right of passage. It IS what one must go through. It IS the hardship of long distance running.

We made it back to the condo but I think Running Buddy just barely made it. One more mile and we would have had to call in the support (her fiance'). She seemed a little disoriented and tired and definitely sick to her stomach still.

Me on the other hand....I didn't know quite what to think. And I still don't.

But there are a few more 20 milers that we have still to redeem ourselves and that's the good news.

I felt pretty down about yesterday's run all day today. So I cleared the cob webs with a nice 45 mile bike ride. Oh it felt so wonderful. But what in the HELL is up with indecisive squirrels?? Here we go man....the squirrels are busy getting ready for the season change and now we get to play chicken in the road with their dumb asses.

AND.....last but not least...tonight on mile 40....the sun set.....and left the most AMAZING shade of hot pink clouds in the sky. And.....the water way that I passed on mile 40 reflected that beautiful shade of pink.....and I thought about the beauty and power of the color pink.

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend. Here comes Monday! JOY JOY from the East Coast.....

Girl Power

2008-09-18T20:03:00.001-07:00

I went for a 6 mile recovery run yesterday after work and well except for some sore muscles from Tuesday's 9 miler on the beach boardwalk IN THE WIND......the 6 mile recovery run was uneventful.

So, I get back towards my house and stop on mile 6.10 and walk back up my street when these two cute little girls come flying out towards me from my neighbor's yard. And they are staring at me with curiosity.

I took off my headphones and they immediately surround me and ask...

"How many hours did you walk today?" I had to laugh....and I said "Well girls...today I just walked for an hour." And they responded "Wow.....but your back is so sweaty!!!" Then they walked passed me and replied to each other "I'm going to jog now......" "me too!!" and they sprinted off like bats out of hell.....two little girls racing each other....running up the street for the pure joy of beating each other to the corner.

Full on girl power......

Today, I ran with Running Buddy and Running Gal Pal......it's the first time I have gone running with my partner in almost 2 weeks. We did some intervals on the "track" or I should say sidewalk that surrounded the football field since the "real" track was occupied. Running Gal Pal is in the early stages of her running obsession and did a superior job of keeping the pace on the intervals....considering my Running Buddy and I are pretty fast.

After running 4 minute intervals of fast pace and 4 minutes of recovery (4 times)....we finished up our last lap pretty strong. But being the self-appointed "obsessive coach" to these two twenty-something young chickitas.....I scream...."Ok girls let's make these last 30 seconds count!! Pick it up and GO!"

And off they went like two bats out of hell.....with something to prove.....or wanting to beat each other....or wanting to beat me. Wouldn't you know these two young and inexperienced chicks kicked my sorry old ass to the end??

And as they sprinted past me, I saw the two young girls on my street yesterday who challenged each other to a jog.........enjoying the sprint for the pure act of beating each other to the end.

What a treat to run with such strength, determination and youth....ahhh...very refreshing.....it's what inspires me the most.

Full on girl power!

The Sandman Report....

2008-09-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

This was truly a fun race I must admit. As unprepared for the swim as I was, I have to say I pulled it off pretty well. The only glitch on the swim was that for some reason or maybe it was the wetsuit (I hate the rubber), I couldn't seem to catch my breath at the beginning. However, I always start to release my anxieties when I see those hot young lifeguards just waiting to save ol' ladies like myself.....it always makes me feel safe.

Anyway, so the swim was great. Nice steady ryhthm....NO waves what so ever, glassy conditions.....gentle current. Perfect......except this STUPID picture of me exiting the water:

What the HOLY hell is this????

WTF am I looking at??? Am I making sure all my parts are still on? Praying maybe? I know....I'm stomping on a ghost crab! THATS IT!!! I'm just making sure all the other athletes don't trip on the ghost crabs.

Now, in past tri's my transition times have always sucked. So I was hell bent on making some time in transition. HA! That backfired. I was so focused on getting my wetsuit off and biking shoes on in a reasonable amount of time that I FORGOT TO PUT MY DAMN CHIP BACK ON!

Note to self.........don't take the flippin' flimsy ass timing chip off.....EVAR.....just pull wetsuit over it.

So, I get on the bike and joggle out to the bike start line (with gum in my mouth as you will see in my picture) all full of fire and piss and ready to smoke 'em.

All I can say is attitude....I rode like a hot bitch UNTIL....I looked down and noticed my ankle did NOT look like anyone else's ankle. It was missing the CHIP! Talk about air out of your sail. I was hotter than a hornet. My best leg too. The last time I did this race I ranked first in my age group on the bike and I am stronger and faster this year than 2 years ago. DOH!!!!!

Here's girl cow chewing her cud thinking about how cool she is with NO CHIP!

(notice cool aero helmet guy BEHIND me...he has disk wheels too....)

Yup, the bike rocked. I averaged about 21 mph for the entire 14 miles and managed to pass those totally cool dudes with wheel disks and aero helmets. Don't that just make a girl feel good?

I made it to bike/run transition all good and happy but just a tad sore in my left quad. By this time in the race the heat was full on. I was sweating like a race horse. I had no trouble getting out of my bike shoes and into the run stuff but I was just so ANGRY about the chip (which I promptly applied to my ankle before the run).

The run was good and I cranked an 8:14 min per mile pace. Running Buddy came out and stalked me for the entire 5K taking pictures and videos. It was very sweet and I enjoyed the company along the run. She rode her bike on the bike path next to the boardwalk and she talked me all the way to the end. Then took some horrible pictures of me that could be used as black mail at some point Im sure.

Not bad eh? Lookin' strong.

Ok, a little too close camera guy....

I had to dig pretty deep on the last .1

SOOO, my final time was 1 hour and 33 min. That is almost 30 min better than the first time I did this race. I won't complain....but I'm still PISSED about that chip. What a blonde moment. I placed 5th in my age group which is also not bad considering this race draws out the "hardcore triathletes" in this area. The chiquita's that run in my age group pull 7 min miles on the run and swim like sharks. Can't even come close.

Next up.....the Neptune 8K. I'd like to race that one...like really run fast. Again, it's a local fav so the competitive ones will be out staking their claim on age group awards.....like me grrrr......it's become an obsession!

Stay tuned.....marathon training continues with a 20 miler looming this weekend!!!

Perfectly Pink Conditions

2008-09-13T14:32:00.001-07:00

It's the day before the Sandman Triathlon and I'm feeling a bit anxious. I guess I always do before a race but Tri's really make me nervous.

I did my final swim this morning following my 13.1 mile run. It was a bit warm today and I of course didn't bring enough fluid. So I was thirsty as hell after I put on my wetsuit for the swim. The water conditions are pretty damn near perfect. Very small swells, flat at 76 balmy degrees. I'm happy 'bout them conditions because around here in mid September anything is a go go with the ocean. I did this race 2 years ago and this is what the water conditions looked like:

THAT was a rough swim and just getting to the buoy was an adventure. The current was a killer even though you get to swim in the same direction. It just made getting to the buoy interesting.

Anyway, tomorrow shouldn't be a problem. I did have a few "charlie horse" episodes in my right and left leg during the swim today. I think it was because I was pretty dehydrated and my legs were worn from the 13 mile run. That was a pretty good run by the way considering I did a terrible 9 miler last night. I was just so tired.....I think the sub 8 milers caught up to me Friday night. My legs didn't have the gas and I barely made a sub 9 mpm. I put all I had into it too. I felt like total crapola too...headache, rumbly stomach and WRUNG OUT.

So, today I go to pick up my race packet and I go to get my runner information and swim cap and the guy says to me "oh you get to wear the PINK cap!" I said "Well isn't it my lucky day?? That just happens to be my LUCKY color!!!" Now, is this a sign...?? I just adopted pink as my signature color in honor my fabulous Running Buddy.

So, then I start to walk back to my truck and the lady helping the athletes get signed in runs up to me and says "excuse me, may I ask how OLD you are??" "Gee...Im 40."

She says back to me...."Oh I just wanted to make sure I gave you the right packet because YOU DON'T LOOK LIKE YOU ARE IN YOUR 40's!!"

I wanted to hug and kiss her. Smooch smooch lady who chased me down...you made this ol' gals DAY!

I have a pink ensemble for tomorrow's race:

And here is my lucky PINK swim cap......

I need to set out my stuff for tomorrow and it's an early 5 AM rise and shine. I hope this all goes well.....cuz I'm always thinkin' of the things that could go wrong....leg cramp in the water....flat on the bike......tripping on the run.

If nothing else I GOT MY PINK ON!!

Stay tuned for sandy shoes on the East Coast.....

Moving Along

2008-09-09T20:29:00.000-07:00

I had no intention of posting tonight, but I came across this ADORABLE picture of a golden that describes my workout tonight...just plain happy. I still don't understand, let alone fathom, how I keep making weekly improvements but tonight's BRICK work was great. I did 26 miles on the bike with an average of 20 mph....got off the bike and ran 6.1 miles at a 7:56 mpm pace. I have NO clue how I manage to pull this shit off....I can only imagine it's some track work, tempo runs and some serious bike riding. Either way....I be happy :)

So I feel pretty confident about the bike/run portion of this weekend's triathlon....as for the swim.....pray.

Long and Winding Road

2008-09-08T19:04:00.001-07:00

Holy crappy I don't know where to begin tonight because so many things are swirling around in my head along with a splash of Michelob Ultra.

I'm mostly random in thought because of the running I have been doing lately with my training partner Running Buddy. I think we may have reached a "cross roads" if you will....in terms of where we are in our running. I think I may have pegged a comfortable pace that allows me to be more confident about the possibility of a Boston Qualifying time in the spring. The jury is out....but it's looking a little better each week with the specific workouts and speed training.

Man, is it starting to pay off....

AND.....I have been working very hard to help Running Buddy get to that same damn place but I feel like we are moving in a backward motion....so, I watch helplessly and uselessly as she gets more and more frustrated.

I have run out of things to do.....and I can't help but think that Im part of the problem because I'm making my way along the long and winding road.....and Running Buddy struggles to keep up.

Ever feel like you are in a war between feeling like you are quitting when the going gets tough and doing the right thing?

I encouraged Running Buddy to go ahead and do all this week's training runs with Running Gal Pal....not with me. I'm hoping that by running with our Gal Pal, Running Buddy won't feel as anxious to keep up with me and not disappoint or hold me back. It's an experiment and I hope it works because Running Buddy needs to get a dash of confidence and running with me just isnt working. I know its the "right thing to do" for my friend....so why do I feel like I'm giving up a little?

So......here is a little dedication to the journey Running Buddy and I have taken since we both decided to try to qualify for Boston.....by the way we were total strangers before we ran her first marathon together....

Total days we have gone running together: 90

Miles we have gone together: over 800

Weeks we have run together: 24

Races we have done together: 7 to include

-Shamrock Marathon

-Dismal Swamp Stomp 1/2

-Chesapeake Bay 10K

-Autism Awareness 5K

-EquiKids 5K and hound run

-Elizabeth River Run 8K

-ECSC 5K

Countless and priceless hours of laughing, coaching, sweating, whining, and talking.....

Soooo.......tonight I shocked the mother living shit out of meeself......I did my 9 mile pace run at 7:51 mpm!!! Well BUTTER MY BUNS AND CALL ME A BISCUIT!!

Things are a changin' around here!! And the really really awesome thing is that I felt like I could have gone one more mile at that pace.....and maybe even if I had to slow down a pinch....I could have still made a 1/2 marathon time close to 1:45 which is my goal for Fleetweek. Hmmmmm......

Still my heart is sad tonight despite my great run. And my legs and ass hurt like hell.

Stayed tuned to the East Coast runner........

Hannah Banana

2008-09-06T05:44:00.001-07:00

Well, here I sit.....watching it rain sideways. I got awake early this morning because DOH!....forgot to turn off my alarm. But as soon as I got awake, my mind rapidly started thinking about that 10K I was SUPPOSED to run this morning. The Hampton Bay Days 10K run was actually part of a large weekend festival starting yesterday and running until tomorrow. Lots of festivities, music, vendors and the RUN! But well, its all been cancelled due to the tropical storm that is now blowing lots of leaves in my pool and dumping a ton of rain on my out of control yard.

Things to possibly do today:

1. Laundry? Ok, yeah...better do that we are out of running bras

2. Clean house? Uh......let me think on that one-

3. Crawl on the couch and watch a movie? Sounding much better....

4. Eat lots Edy's Slow Churn Yogurt Blend ice cream? Oh baby keep talking!

5. Take a long nap after 1/2 gal. of ice cream.....yes, yes YES!!

But really....what SHOULD I do? Take advantage of this crappy weather and go to the gym.

Wonder Boy is leaving me today and will be gone through Monday. He is actually headed to SC for some golfing on Sunday. I'm going to miss him.....weekends are our only real quality time together. Poo.....

This week's running was a struggle for me. I'm really fighting with myself to get motivated after school. I had a FANTASTIC brick on Wednesday night....it really was a last minute "whim" thing but I rode out on Ol' speedy for 30 miles and my legs felt fresh so I cranked an ave. of 20-21 mph. Then I got off the bike and had planned in my head to go 3 miles but I ended up doing 6 and averaged 8:34 mpm. I was SO excited. I did have to concentrate and dig WAY deep to finish that last mile on pace. I felt it on my 8 miler the next day with Running Buddy.

Ok, so no 10K today and I hope Ike just stays away otherwise next weekend's Sandman Tri might be in jeopardy. Not that I'm ready for that ocean water swim. I feel so guilty and full of shame.....and I think I'm going to learn a hard lesson, but I just haven't prepared very well for the swim. If I don't drown....I will kick some hard ass on the bike/run.

Stay tuned......blessings from the East Coast.

Support Crew Part 3

2008-09-02T17:15:00.000-07:00

I'm strolling down memory lane tonight as I page through my iphoto albums on my mac reliving a few of the races I have done over the years and I came across several photos from 2 years ago when I was in the training cycle for the Inaugural OBX marathon I did in 2006. That summer training was the best I can remember. I did several races and did them well. I PR'd the Fleetweek 1/2 marathon and I was well on my way to PR'ing the OBX Marathon. I planned it up for a fun weekend racing and hanging out with my mom.....my best friend.....my biggest supporter and of course my hero.

I have never known a stronger and more courageous woman than my own mother. I feel blessed to have been born to an intelligent, outgoing and amazing person. If I have even inherited an ounce of her strength and compassion......I have been given an amazing gift. I never can quite see the good in myself....let alone strength and courage so my only hope is that others see it. I draw on the strength my mother has shown in all the years of her struggle raising me alone.....putting herself through school, managing a home.....and working full time all the while trying to make her own dreams come true. I think that many of her dreams were never fulfilled because she was a single mother.

But she has always been there to help make my dreams come true. I could not have pulled through some of my marathons and some of my endurance events (and most certainly college and my first job) if it had not been for the comfort and strength of my mother. Of particular note IS the OBX marathon I did in 2006. I had been beaten down by an unfamiliar course, a 5k off road section of the marathon, the bridge to Manteo and a Nor' Easter that blew in the day of the race. It rained, it poured and the OLD MAN SNORED! It was windy, rainy and chilly.

I had been stressed out the entire weekend. I couldn't eat, I couldn't sleep......and I was again scared of failure. But my mom rallied on.....encouraged me and reminded me of how many times I had already done a marathon.....how good my training was.....how it would all turn out ok as it always does.

And the weather beat me down.....mentally.....it took away all my hopes of a PR......and I was tired and sore....I battled nausea for entire 26 miles......and I was wet and all I wanted to do was go home. I was just a few miles from the finish line and I just knew my mom wouldn't be at the end waiting for me. The traffic to Manteo was a mess I thought for sure my mom would get caught in it.

I hobbled hard around the track for the last .2 of the 26. My head was down in TOTAL despair....unlike any despair I had ever run through. And I looked up.....and there she was. My best friend and hero......cheering and yelling and whooping it up for me to get to the finish line.

I found the strength and finished and I was so happy and as always....my mom was there for me in one of my darkest hours. This is what I looked like when I saw her in the cheering section....

Thanks MOM!!

My mom and I have been through it all together all of my life. No one in my life has given me more hope, love, encouragement and strength then she has. No one ever will. Mother and daughter.....its been just the two of us against the world. She has battled every battle with me. I have been blessed with the best mother a daughter could ever dream of........

Mother and Daughter enjoying the beach 40 years ago....

Mother and Daughter hiking in Alaska

Humble

2008-08-31T18:00:00.000-07:00

Today I got to sit on the sidelines and watch a few friends run the Rock and Roll Half Marathon in Virginia Beach. What a blessing. Running Buddy and I rode our bikes up to the start line to try to catch a glimpse of a very good friend of ours that we work with just before the gun went off. Just for history's sake, this little gal that we went to watch JUST started running last spring after watching Running Buddy finish her first marathon. She was quite inspired by the whole event and I think at that moment decided to run the half marathon this summer. Nope, she's never even completed a 5K.

What is with these young women full of guts and glory that they just "go out" and start running and then end up doing marathons and half marathons for the first time without experiencing little races??? Running Buddy did the same thing last spring with the Shamrock. I have so much respect for these gals who have no fear.

We never did get to see our running gal pal in the start corral.....we actually never missed her. We just thought she got ahead of us. So we pedaled up the road to try to catch a glimpse after the pack thinned out. We basically "runner stalked" for 1/2 hour and never saw anyone that we knew so we pedaled to a spot and parked ourselves and waited. It was worth it. After about an hour we started to see some familiar faces.

What was so humbling to me was watching all the runners and the efforts, the struggles, the pain, the joy. I'm so used to being in it for myself....I never notice anyone around me. Today I noticed EVERYONE. It was truly humbling. But I waited so anxiously and impatiently for my running gal pal and I thought I would NEVER see her come up towards the bridge where Running Buddy and I were waiting.

And then there she was.....walking and sweaty and a bit worn down. We shouted for our gal pal and she just forced a smile....and walked on so Running Buddy and I jumped in and started to run with her. Just for a few paces but it seemed to get her going...and all she could say was "I am so exhausted."

It was warm but very humid on this day.

We watched running gal pal hobble up the bridge and over as we rode our bikes along the way cheering and cajoling......it was so hard watching this young and inexperienced gal struggle through the pain.

She kept asking how much farther.

Running Buddy and I parked our bikes and decided it was time to pull running gal pal the last 1.1 miles. She was hurting, tired and miserable. My heart raced for her.

We jumped in the pack and sandwiched our gal pal and Running Buddy transformed herself into me.....she coached gal pal all the way with focal points and words of encouragement and I had to choke back a few tears as I saw all the determination and team work roll out before my eyes. These 2 young girls who have just started their running......one coaching and one looking for encouragement. It was the first precious moment I experienced today.

Then we let gal pal pull herself to the finish line solo.

Afterward, we met her as she walked somberly away from the finish line....disappointed that she had to walk and in shock that she hurt so much and wondering why she hurt so much. Then running gal pal's tears started to flow and she cried......and I experienced my second precious moment as Running Buddy and I told our gal pal how proud of her we were and how great she is and I added the whole speech about how much stronger she is now.

What a day. I have a slightly different perspective now....Im proud of my friend and I have so much respect for the journey she took today and I'm so proud of my Running Buddy for putting on the coach hat.

And now I am WAY too psyched up and PUMPED for OBX marathon.

Running gal pal did PHENOMENAL for her first time....a VERY respectable 2 hours and 33 min. I grinned ear to ear.....she is amazing. Looking at her stats...she definitely started out too fast. But overall, that girl KICKED ASS. Can't wait to see her at work on Tuesday and BRAG BRAG BRAG!

Ok, I am ready to kick the training into high gear. We have a 17 mile long run next weekend and I'm doing Hampton Bay Days 10. Gonna try to race it and see what happens.

Here we go with another Hurricane. It may be something to consider for the weekend. I probably need some rainy runs. This would be a psychological barrier for me. Stay tuned from the East Coast.

Demented

2008-08-30T13:15:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling a little bit like Ren these days...this past week.....demented.

I wish that I could put a reason to the irrational emotions that I have been experiencing all week. But I can't. That just makes it worse. It's not work because really right now, work is great.

The school year seems to have gotten off to a normal start. The kids come back on Tuesday.

It's not my life.....my life is very calm and quiet. No stresses....

Running is going fine, bills are getting paid, house hasn't fallen down yet, car is still running. SO WTF??? Why do I want to laugh one minute, cry the next, and beat the snot out of something next, then rest and repeat?

I'm feeling looney and just a little "crazy" or just a bit out of my head. I found this clip of Ren and Stempy that pretty much sums up the party going on in my head. At least for now, the insomnia seems to have subsided but I think that might be from doing my workouts later in the evening, having a beer and then being so exhausted all I CAN do is sleep. Wonder how much longer this shit will go on.

Running Buddy and I had a hot and tiring 16 mile run today. The humidity was off the chart. We also had some head games going on around mile 12 and I had to stop and deliver a little tough love to my partner.

Tomorrow is the Rock and Roll 1/2 marathon and I have a few friends running the race. Today's run followed a little bit of the route and yeah, I got a bit nostalgic and wished I was running tomorrow too. It's hard to sit on the sidelines and watch the game when all you want to do is go out and play too. But for now.....I play cheerleader and I am looking forward to that.

Another Reminder

2008-08-26T18:31:00.001-07:00

Once again, I am reminded of the true and pure definition of perseverance. Running Buddy and I did a training run today after school. Of course my aging mind screwed up what was on the calendar. I thought it was just the 8 mile pace run with Running Buddy to set the speed. Oh no, "it's track today Kel...." Aw darn. But Running Buddy shifted gears this afternoon despite my haggling to just "go ahead and hit the track" (I HATE TRACK). We started our run semi-slow for us at about 9:30 min per mile. I FORCED myself to keep my lips shut and not shout out "pick it up girl...you can go faster...etc" I also FORCED myself to stay about 5 paces behind Running Buddy so that she wouldn't feel forced to keep up. Sure enough....it worked. By the 2.5 mile mark, I suddenly feel a slight surge and off goes Running Buddy.....8:30 mpm is what GPS is saying. And not just for the brief moment that I look at it. It's an 8:30 mpm for about 3 miles. It was all I could do to not jump up and down. I really couldn't contain myself...I whooped a few times (nerd). Anyway, I feel the progress and I think Running Buddy does too. The 8 mile run ended at about 1:10. We picked up the pace on the last 2.5 miles and we were probably final kicking around 8:00 mpm. It was a great run and we are well on our way to getting a good pace for our next marathon. I'm encouraged and inspired. So here's my motivational quote for tonight as I learn lessons on this journey from the running itself but from my Running Buddy too, as she perseveres EVERY time we hit the road.....

To succeed, we must have the will to succeed, we must have stamina, determination, backbone, perseverance, self-reliance, and faith. - B.C. Forbes

Track work is tomorrow and "no please I don't wanna, I don't wanna!!!" Yes, it is my weakness and Running Buddy's favorite. So, I need more than a freakin' carrot to motivate me! Maybe I can convince my pal to dangle some chocolate!

Pumped Up

2008-08-25T20:30:00.001-07:00

Ok, how funky is it that I woke up this morning feeling all puffy and pumped up in both of my calves? I swear, all day I felt like the damn Michelin Man. What in the swollen hell is this all about? Really, this is the second time it has happened to me and the last time it did, I had gone on a hard 40 mile bike ride the day before. Well, wouldn't ya know, last night I did a hard 40 mile bike ride. Now, the puffiness does go away, but shit man, it feels funky. Really like I got sausages connected to my thighs. Yuck.....

I did go on another bike ride today after work. I did an easy 30 miler on Black Beauty and she actually behaved today. Still, there seems to be some grinding noises coming from the bottom bracket but its a brand new bike and my trusty mechanic says "oh everything perfect inside there....." Umm hmmm....I aint imagining this shit. Something is going on around the crank on the left side. I can hear it and feel it. The only bad thing is, that it usually only gets going after I have been riding for an hour and more so when I really have to mash the pedals or stand up for a sprint. Oh well....I'm just going to take it back this week and beg and plead the mechanics to LOOK AGAIN!

Ok, here are some shots from this weekend's ECSC 5k. I'm posting the "drool/spit" shots. Of course you can't actually see the spit/drool...but that's what was goin' down on the final kick!

DROOL..... MORE DROOL........

SWEET SUCCESS!

Well, school started today. Actually it wasn't as bad as I made it out to be in my head Sunday night. It never really is that bad is it? I told my mom...it's just the anticipation of "getting started." Otherwise, it was a rather uneventful but productive day.

I even managed to leave work on time, get home for some grub and a quick nap before my workouts. It's going to take some getting used to cramming all my training in after work. I'm way too comfortable having time to eat, sleep and train. My other issue is the eating thing. I'm still trying to figure out how to space out the fuel during the work day for my runs and workouts after school. Oh the challenges. The new mantra is a quote from Larry the Cable Guy...when it comes to sticking to the training plans and such it's going to be "JUST Git ER DONE!'

Tomorrow will be a nice steady pace 8 mile run that I will be making Running Buddy lead. I really want to get an idea of what her "hard but comfortable" pace is. I think I go out too fast for her on some of these runs and she is toast by mile 7 or 8. Anyway, we shall see. The weather will cooperate tomorrow so there should be no issues. Stay tuned......

Support Crew Part 2

2008-08-24T19:46:00.000-07:00

I probably wouldn't feel as good about what I do and who I am if I didn't have the love and support of a good man. Yes, I do believe that a "good man is hard to find." I think I got very lucky that a good man has entered my life. I'm one of those quirky believers in fate, karma, destiny, blah, blah blah....and that things don't "just happen" but they happen for a reason. People come and go out of your life and I believe it's not just an accident. I was introduced to Wonder Boy by a friend of mine at work that thought we "might like each other." Hmm......destiny??

Wonder Boy is truly a good man. He is so supportive and understanding and he is more patient than any person could ever be. Does he PMS sometimes? Sure he does.....does he yap like a girl and drive me nuts sometimes? Absolutely. But when I have my irrational breakdowns and cry like a 2 year old, he is patient and understanding. He never judges me or thinks I'm being silly or sensitive. He listens to me and gives some of the most amazing advice.....words of support.....and words of encouragement. It makes me feel better every time. He is also being very supportive and patient with all my running, swimming and biking. He is after all my biggest fan and cheering section.

The amount of thoughtfulness and unselfishness of this man is unbelievable. He builds me up....treats me like a QUEEN....and loves me warts and all (and I got me some pretty ugly warts.) I'm learning to be a better person because of him. He is protective and supportive and gives me space and time....I don't do well with commitments.....Daddy issues and all. If God said to me "here is a piece of paper....I want you to write down all the things you find valuable in a person who you would fall in love with and spend the rest of your life with...." all I would have to do is write down Wonder Boy's name....he is every thing I could have ever hoped and wished for in a man I would fall in love with....and certainly devote my life to. It's been the best 2 years EVAR!!!! Here's to my Wonder Boy and our 2 year anniversary.....

damn this man is HOT!

Wonder Boy in a pose He makes me look good

Near Miss

2008-08-23T09:07:00.000-07:00

Well, after my long yesterday with Running Buddy, I decided to round off the day with a lovely 30 mile bike ride. I was still feeling energetic and I really wanted to get 2-3 hours of training in yesterday, so I took Ol' Speedy out for a spin later in the evening before I got to the dreaded yard work.

I went my usual 30 mile route and 9 times out of 10, my rides are uneventful. I live in a "relatively" low traffic area/neighborhood and although I have had a few close calls with cars, yesterday's close call was nothing short of a HORRIFYING experience. It was the mother fucker of near misses let me tell ya.....what's with people not looking in the rear view mirror or from side to side before backing outta their driveways??? Especially when your house sits on a busy rode.

I came within inches of my life and I nearly t-boned a car backing out of its driveway. I had briefly looked down at my bike computer and when I looked up the car was RIGHT THERE. I think I even felt the exhaust coming from it's tailpipe as I swerved to the other side of the rode.

Yes, maybe I was responsible too (thank HEAVENS for good bike handling skills) and I should have been even MORE alert than I normally am, but for shit's sake.....this fool wasn't looking. I shook like a leaf and thought about how badly I could have been hurt. It would have knocked me out for sure not to mention what would have happened to Ol' Speedy.

I have a brief recollection of the whole incident but I think I heard angels saying "not today.....not today....." and then I could have sworn I heard Dirty Harry saying to me...."Do you feel lucky? Well do ya? Punk!"

Of course the rest of the ride was ok, I was just a bit nervous and jittery....but I made it home to tell the story.

Today was the ECSC 5k down at the oceanfront and I must say I'm pleased with my results. It was a gorgeous morning and I drove down to Running Buddy's condo and we rode our bikes down to the start line. When I got to her condo, my dear partner came out looking way too fresh and pretty and put together to be racing this morning. Way too much smiling and perkiness. So, I asked her fiance and he promptly informs me that Running Buddy had just rolled out of the bed. Ummm hmm......countless times I have told her to get up early enough to eat breakfast and poop and generally just get the blood flowing and brain awake. Running Buddy blames it on the alarm clock that didn't go off. I guess it's time for some very RUDE wake up calls from me....the coach from hell.

Anyway, we made it down to the race start and did a warm up run. As we gathered at the start line, I gave Running Buddy some tips on practicing mental strategies and breathing. It's what I really want her to work on at some of these smaller races since she likes to psych herself out sometimes. When the gun went off it was every man for himself. I hit the first mile marker at 7:28 mpm and the second mile mark at 15:00 min on the dot. I followed a very young girl for the first 2.5 miles and then she fell back and even my pace slowed. The sun was hot and the wind was at my back so I was sweating like a champ. I was pushing my pace limits for sure on the last mile......I started to drool because I was breathing too hard to swallow and all I could do was a modified spit drool...kinda like the kind you do at the dentist's office after your first shot of Novocaine.

I tried to hold the pace all the way down the line and I looked at my watch and it clicked over at 23:00 min. I wanted so bad to finish that last .10 and come in under 24:00 min. I just barely made it I think at 23:55......not sure for sure......I forgot to hit stop on my watch as I crossed the mat.....I was still doing the modified spit thing. I couldn't even muster a breath to get my timing chip off. But I did place 3rd in my age group and I was happy with that. Running Buddy did very well too at 25 min and some odd seconds. After I got my award, we decided to finish up the morning run with another 3 miles which pretty much de-fueled us both. We rode our bikes back to the condo and mapped out next week's running/workout schedule. Running Buddy is on a mission and doing some double workouts next week. We also start school on Monday. Tomorrow is an easy day....probably just some surfing, a long bike ride and hopefully no near misses!!!

Pretty and Powerful in Pink

2008-08-22T09:49:00.000-07:00

Ok, Running Buddy has REALLY gotten me hooked on the color pink. Yup, it's her favorite color and although I wouldnt call it my favorite color....it sure is symbolic to me as Running Buddy and I venture forth on our running endeavors. I think to me, the color pink has always symbolized "girliness" something I never really was growing up. All the froofy girls with make up and pretty hair always adored pink when I was in school. I suppose I never really cared much about color or clothes or matching or make up. I still don't, even at age 40. You should see how I dress sometimes...SHEESH....

But running and biking has done something to my overall image. Really, when you run or bike, there isnt much "prettiness" going on with all that sweating and hair sticking to your face and snot running from your nose, boogers and just the general ickiness of the well.....sweating and smelling like a man!! There's the dirt and the grime......and you just don't feel so pretty. But wear some pink and WHAMO....ya feel like a girl! That's right! Nothing like feeling pretty and powerful all at the same time. So, I'm embracing my inner pinkness....and Im starting to collect a nice ensemble of pink things such as this cute little package:

Cute running skirt, bra and ipod holder with pink personalized Polar water bottle

Hells bells.....I even drink pink stuff

This was not intentional...but even both Ol' Speedy and Black Beauty have pink pedals

So, here is to my pink and powerful Running Buddy who has brought out the pink lady in me! It's all good stuff.

Speaking of Running Buddy.....we had a hard 11 mile run today. I think that progress is just too slow for my friend. I totally understand too. We are both trying to shave time off our running pace and it's very hard to be patient with your progress when all you want to do is get faster right at the moment. The summer has been a bit of a challenge for my partner as she doesn't do too well in the heat. The heat and pace have aggravated runner's trots in her and its about to make her a looney running freak. At first, its just annoying. Then it just turns her angry....all the stopping we have to do when all Running Buddy wants to do is run and run fast and furious. Today, she thought she might turn into this after the first few rounds of stomach cramps:

It was very frustrating. I'm helpless too as there is really nothing either of us can do until the temps cool off a bit more in the fall. I think the combination of dehydration and intensity is more than her digestive system can handle. It's been going on all summer. But I watched her closely as we ran through the miles today and I really thought she looked like this:

That's right, Blossom, that cute little pink PowerPuff Girl. Running Buddy might be too young to remember these cute little super heros. I got a little choked up today when I thought about how wickedly hard this young woman has worked since her first marathon in March. I would have quit by now with all the little issues she has dealt with this summer. And today when the trots (aka "poop monster") appeared I thought she sucked up pretty damn good and Blossom looked just like this:

Especially after I suggested we pick the pace up to just under 9 mpm for the last 5k after she had just experienced some stomach rumblings. What a trooper.....pretty AND powerful in pink and that's why I love having her as my Running Buddy!

Up Up and Away

2008-08-20T16:27:00.000-07:00

Today was hill work at Mt. Trashmore in Va. Beach with my running buddy. We actually did a very good job at keeping a steady pace up the silly hills and mountains of this beach town. We did a 6 mile loop around the park and ran up several of the man made trash hills. This park has been around for as long as I can remember. I grew up in Va. Beach and I have vague recollections of when the park was actually built but I was just a kid. It is a wonderful place to run, walk, picnic and basically take your family for a fun day at the park. There are several 5Ks that go on at this park as well. The top of the highest hill is rather pretty as it overlooks the "downtown" Va. Beach area as well as its lakes. Standing at the top with my running buddy after our run was nice. We stood quiet for a few moments and cooled off in the stiff North breeze. We contemplated our long range goals. We soaked in the scenery. Then we headed to the beach for a well deserved afternoon of relaxation. Just a few more days before both of us return to our classrooms.

Mt. Trashmore

Just around the city seal and a steep climb

Tomorrow is a cross train day and friday will be our "short" long run of 11 miles. Then Saturday we have the ECSC 5K. I'm very glad running buddy signed up too. It's time to get serious. I am anxious to see how we both do. We have trained hard this summer and have done a good bit of speed work. Time to see if it will be paying off. Stay tuned....

Support Crew

2008-08-19T12:10:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to pay tribute to the real true and unconditional love of my life and all the lessons he has taught me. He has made me appreciate running for the act of movement and freedom that it is and swimming for the love of being in the water. I adore the spirit of Bailey-enjoy!

10 lessons I've learned from my Golden boy:

1. Home is where ever mom is.

2. Sleep when you are tired...play when you are awake.

3. When it comes to delicious, food the "5 second rule" always applies.

4. When life gets too crazy just walk away.

5. Savor every meal and every treat.

6. Always soak up the sun.

7. Put your head out of the window and let your tongue hang out...who cares what you look like?

8. Run with a purpose.

9. Swim, swim and swim some more.

10. Live life like there may not be a tomorrow.

BEEP BEEP!!!

2008-08-18T18:20:00.000-07:00

Well, I had another amazing run tonight. Again, just like yesterday, I only wanted to do an easy run this time 7 miles. I got a late start tonight because I had to go to work today. It put my body in shock being at work so when I got home I was starving and then I had to take a nap. Whoa.....not used to working! I got myself together around 6:30 and when I went for the ipod (aka "happy place") it was dead as a door nail. Thankfully, it charges quickly. So I just set it on the charger and waited 30 min. I did a warm up jaunt up the street and some drills and then headed out the door. I took it nice and easy again just going by how I "felt." I got to my 1.7 mile mark and again JUST like yesterday the GPS time read 14:55. I knew I was on my mark. I kept the pace up all the way through 3.5 miles feeling absolutely strong the whole way. So at 3.5, I decided to go ahead and do a negative split. I just ran a little faster but not to the point of death. I never did get tired. I felt a little bit of the twinge on my right side from the stupid butt pain...but not enough for me to perseverate on it. I felt strong for the entire final 3.5 miles. I clocked in at 57 min on the second for 7 miles. The GPS pace read 8:09 mpm. Even better than yesterday. Wow....all I can say is WTF??? Im not sure but I think the track work and speed sessions plus all the bike cross training is REALLY starting to pay off big time. I'm feeling slightly more confident that an 8:30 mpm pace might be soon my comfort pace. Wow....that would certainly be ideal. Tonight, I felt like ROAD RUNNER!!! BEEP BEEP!!!!

School sucked. Basically, I spent my time cleaning and talking. Yuck....how utterly nonproductive. How utterly disgusting my room was. School buildings have to be the most horrifyingly filthy places on the planet short of a dumpster. I'm certain that if you were to take some "cultures" of the junk that lives around, behind and under some of the furniture you would find several new and undiscovered diseases. It's amazing teachers can keep their rooms as clean as they do. All I can say is yuck...

I'm not sure if I should cross train tomorrow on the bike or just run and swim. I know I need to swim. I only have just a few more days to do that at my leisure. Once school starts, it will be hard to get out in the ocean. Oh the dread....time to use my mental strategies!

Wonder Woman

2008-08-17T18:37:00.000-07:00

I had the most amazing brick workout today. I just wanted to go out and do my "recovery" 6 mile end of the training week run. I laced up the shoes and I felt pretty good today after being wickedly depressed yesterday for no rational reason. I did do a 30 mile easy paced bike ride yesterday afternoon, but it didn't seem to undo the "prickly" and emotionally uneasy feeling I had all day. I got up today a new woman. So I went out for my run. The goal again was to do an easy pace, come in and grab the TT bike and do a 20 mile tempo ride (backwards brick) and round off my workout for the week.

Off I went for the run, GPS and ipod all cookin'. I try really hard not to look at my pace/time at least for the first 2 miles of my runs and just go by feel, but when I got to mile 1.7 I had to look and I was at 14:55.....I was feeling good and digging it. I went 3.5 more miles without looking. When I got within minutes of my house, I looked and the GPS time was 45 min. So I cranked up the pace and decided to just make the run a 10K. Well, I went to 6.2 and I felt good all the way...not tired and I didn't really have to concentrate. When I looked at the GPS pace it said 8:30mpm!! Yipee skippy man!!! I am finally getting my "comfortable" pace at a sub 9 min. mile. I'm moving up!

So then I'm so pumped and full of gusto...I grab the TT bike which I call "Old Speedy" and I cranked out a 20 mile ride at 20.5 mph with very little effort. I didn't get hungry and my legs did not feel like crap. Now, I realize it WAS reverse brick...but it still did not hurt as bad as it normally does.

After my epic effort, I'm wondering what the HELL did I eat to get that kind of energy? It sure wasn't the oatmeal, bananas and strawberries I had for breakfast or the coffee. I have that every day. Then I thought about the depressive manic state I was in yesterday and the demonic hunger I experienced. The only thing that would calm the demonic hunger cravings was the multiple servings of Edy's Slow Churn Yogurt Blend ice cream (cappuccino chip) and Captain Crunch cereal which I couldn't get enough of (by the way, it IS my drug of choice). Hmmm.......maybe THAT wicked carbo load yesterday gave me Wonder Woman strength!

Tomorrow starts a new training week and I have to go into work for one day. We don't "officially" go back to school as teachers until August 25th, but our school system is a little quirky with its requirements. So I have a one week window of time to put in "8 hours" of professional development time before I "officially" go back. WhatEVAR........

This week is actually a "fall back" week on my marathon training plan....so no real long run or at least what I would consider a long run. So I think I will try to concentrate on some swimming in addition to my runs this week. It's gonna be a bit more hot than it normally has been and there is of course tropical storm "Fay" churning out in the ocean. I have the ECSC (East Coast Surfing Championship) 5k on Saturday. Hopefully it won't rain...but I say BRING IT ON...if it does...I will just scarf up my ice cream and Captain "crack berries" and bust a move!

In the beginning

2008-08-16T06:15:00.000-07:00

I have finally arrived.....after months of reading so many blogs I have decided to create one of my own. I have truly been inspired by so many other bloggers that I want to join in and be a part of the blogger world. Kind of scary......so much like a diary. I'm from the old school. "Dear Diary" was always private and personal. I actually had one that I kept for over 10 years and it had a key. I have always been fond of journaling and writing down my thoughts. It seems to clear out the cob webs at times. My hope for this blogging is to inspire a few others who are on the same journey as me.

I am primarily a runner but I started out as bike rider from the time I was able to coordinate a pedal stroke. I became more of a runner several years ago as a result of some incidents and accidents on the bike. I am still a pretty hard core bike rider but I have eased up a bit and become more of a multi sport wanna be. Unfortunately, I hate swimming. I have completed a few triathlons and swimming is the worst for me. Oddly, I grew up at the beach and adore the ocean. I am a competent swimmer, I just hate swimming and I am trying to devise mental strategies to help embrace this discipline....such as "oh you are swimming with the dolphins, hear the water roll across your swim cap and get in the zone etc" Its not working. I've even tried applying some spiritual aspects.....I just can't seem to get into it.

All this crazy training stuff and multi sport obsessions began many years ago when I moved back home from North Carolina after several years following the completion of my master's degree. I hated my job but fell in love with a wonderful man. Boy did I fall hard. So moving back home and accepting the fact that my relationship was long distance and possibly not going to survive the miles and time apart shoved me into athletic endeavors. Seems to have kept the demons at bay.

I managed to move forward despite the upheaval of my life after moving back to Virginia and focused on biking and running. My first real "event" was the Bike Virginia 2000 tour of the mountains of Virginia. HA! It was week long bike ride that covered probably 500 miles through the "rolling hills" of NC/VA. I learned quickly that a rolling hill meant LUNG BUSTER. Im from the beach baby.....rolling hills around here mean speed bumps. I learned a lot about endurance on that ride....what to do what NOT to do (more of what not to do). I was addicted after that event. My next major event was the Rock and Roll 1/2 marathon in 2001. It was the first year it came to Virginia Beach and now its a major event every year. Following my R and R 1/2 I took on the challenge of a full marathon. It was the inaugural Chesapeake Bay Bridge Marathon in 2002 and what a killer it was for me. Once again, learning hard lessons in endurance and poor training. I will always remember the ride across the Bay Bridge Tunnel the morning of the race. It was dark......it was early and I was scared and alone. The bus took us the entire 26.2 miles to the start and only then did the magnitude of the distance sink in. I thought to myself "I will never be able to run this far." with tears in my eyes.

Since that first marathon I have run 4 others, completed 4 1/2 marathons and 3 sprint level triathlons. I have run numerous 5ks, 8ks, and 10ks. Too many to count but since I turned 40 this year I have been placing in my age group. Who would have thunk it??

My latest lofty goal is to qualify for the Boston Marathon. This blog will definitely follow my journey to that goal and a few small ones along the way. I am in training for the Outer Banks Marathon in November, the Fleetweek 1/2 in October and the Sandman Tri in September. I am also in the process of training a friend of mine who started her running career with the Rock and Roll 1/2 last summer. My running buddy and I ran the Shamrock Marathon together last spring and the idea to qualify for Boston was born....oh and she is 25 years old......and I'm um......40??? What am I thinking?? Yes, I will be blogging my adventures with "running buddy."