I looked back at the races and runs for 2009 and realized what a great year for running and for my personal self. I won't get all emotional, but you can look back at the 2009 posts too to see I learned a lot about support, struggle, and strength all in 2009. I ran more than 1,550 miles this year and ran races from 2.5 miles to 26.2 miles. I ran two marathons and 22 miles of a third in a torrential Nor'easter storm. I ran on the road, on the trail, in the woods, and even in snow shoes. I ran by myself, with my dog, with my husband, with my friends, with strangers, and even with a coach. While 2008 was when I learned I loved running, 2009 was when I realized all it had done for me and that I needed it. I used running as a goal, as a networking tool, as a problem solver, as a way to focus, and sometimes as a way to forget.
Whomever said you can't run from your problems, never laced up a pair of running shoes or they would have known you can run from them and even through them, and always always feel better at the end than before you started.
Here's to another great year of running in 2010. I think I'll start with a race on the 1st!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
A New Way to Run
Sure there are different ways to run: slow, fast, at race pace, easy pace, sprinting, even "like you mean it." Today, I experienced running in a new way unlike these--with snow shoes in 18 inches or so of beautiful virgin white powder. It was amazing! The woods were pristine and a group of friends and I traversed the woods for 5 miles both on and off trail even jumping baby streams at times. We ran when we could, often taking advantage of straight aways without brush, tree limbs, or inclines. I even took off in front of the group, as the newbie, charging down a hill that had not a flake disturbed. . . well, not until I got there.
After just a few weeks back into running after taking a month or so off of training after the marathon to rest and spend time with my family, this was an amazing way to fall in love with running again. Further, this new way acted as a crude reminder that no matter how much time I spend running on the road, or even working out in the gym, my body can always be challenged in new ways. My quads and glutes burned as I lifted my legs and snow shoes above the drifts and through the powder as a reminder that we are a team. The bruise on my knee from my fall, reminds me that the team may not always work perfectly together. Yet, the little balls of ice on my eyelashes reminded me of the joys of seeing nature through different lenses. These lenses that my snow shoes brought me showed me childlike joy and an appreciation of nature.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Indianapolis Marathan Proves Monumental
I must say that the Indianapolis Marathon was in fact Monumental for me. With the help of the support noted in the previous blog, I shaved a substantial amount of time off my marathon finishing time wrapping up the race in 4:03, over 13 minutes off my Burlington finish. This race was one of the most organized races I have run with a ton of water and Poweraid stops, lots of crowd support, ample start and finish line amenities, and a fabulous t-shirt that finally fits me without the aid of my sewing machine! The weather was great and even got a little warm at the end. My favorites moments, besides running with the support of my family and finishing with my husband next to me, were running down Meridian street and running around the Circle Center monument. I later learned that while we Hoosiers call this just that, "Cirlce Center Monument," it is really the Soldiers' and Sailors' monument recognizing Indiana vetrans. Next time I am in town, maybe I'll climb the 331 steps to the top and observe the city from yet another perspective. In the meantime, here are some photo highlights of the race.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Reflection on Support
It seems after any big event in life, we have some down time and take a step back to ponder what it all means. Big races are no exception, after months of training and the finale of the big race--I often reflect (well in between naps at least). After my second marathon, and possibly it's location in my home state--I reflected on the meaning of support!
Support--by Melissa Jaynes (written for the beloved Wicked Running Club website and posted on 11/19)
Running always ends up teaching me something, even if I never intended to learn. In the very early days, my attempts at running quickly educated me on my lack of fitness; I missed the train when I couldn’t run a whopping quarter mile soon after moving to Salem. As I got a little better, running also taught me that pushing my body also helped push my mind in working through mental and emotional conundrums. When I started running road races I learned the importance of pacing, training, the value hidden in hills, and even the need to rest. Completing my first marathon taught me the invaluable lesson of not putting limits on my own capabilities.
As I prepared for my second marathon, running continued to act as my teacher. However, the most valuable lesson from this marathon was one we often must re-learn—the importance of support. I specifically signed up for this marathon in Indianapolis so that my family could see me run (did I mention Indiana is flat?). As planned, I expectantly learned lessons from a running clinic and multiple shorter races throughout my 20 week training schedule. I even learned lessons I didn’t anticipate such as how to “recover” from a race that just didn’t go as planned. But, my most important lesson was a reminder of the value of friendship and support. I loved the clinic because it challenged me physically, but mostly because I ran alongside up to 60 fellow runners who cheered for each other and noticed when someone was absent. I also loved running my long training runs with the support of a coach, and his beloved cooler of water and Gatorade, and fellow runners. We ran in heat and a lot of rain (see October entry on Amica marathon). Alone, such runs are often skipped or miserable, but alongside friends, I found myself laughing and sometimes even singing during torrential downpours and booming thunder. While the simple presence of the person next to you is support, so is the laughter and song that you remember in many following runs.
I was powerfully reminded of support when about a month before the marathon, one of my closest friends from Indiana lost her father, Tim, to a Diabetes related illness. I was unable to fly attend the funeral, and instead found myself longing for a way to show support from 1,000 miles away. I suddenly found myself researching the American Diabetes Association and e-mailing family and friends asking for donations in Tim’s honor as I ran the race in his memory. His death also forced me to look back at my life and reminded me that all of my accomplishments in life were achieved with the support of my family and mentor’s like Tim. Once again this proved true throughout the marathon. While during the race, unlike my training runs, I did not have a partner directly next to me, I was surrounded and motivated by support. I was moved by the support of my friends in the Running Club and their well wishes, tips, and good luck trinkets (who knew how important chapstick and a lucky hair tie could be). I was also moved by the support of my family and their cheers along the course. There is just nothing like high-fiving your Dad, seeing your Mom and Sister holding bright yellow signs proudly, hearing your 80-year-old Grandfather yell “pick up the pace,” having professional style action photos from your uncle, or having your husband run the last mile with you in jeans after seeing the pain in my face. As a result, I did not cross the finish line alone, but with Tim on my mind, my friends in my heart, my family by my side, and a reminder of one of the most valuable lessons in life.
I'll post more details and photos of the race shortly, but first, must well, must take another nap:)
Support--by Melissa Jaynes (written for the beloved Wicked Running Club website and posted on 11/19)
Running always ends up teaching me something, even if I never intended to learn. In the very early days, my attempts at running quickly educated me on my lack of fitness; I missed the train when I couldn’t run a whopping quarter mile soon after moving to Salem. As I got a little better, running also taught me that pushing my body also helped push my mind in working through mental and emotional conundrums. When I started running road races I learned the importance of pacing, training, the value hidden in hills, and even the need to rest. Completing my first marathon taught me the invaluable lesson of not putting limits on my own capabilities.
As I prepared for my second marathon, running continued to act as my teacher. However, the most valuable lesson from this marathon was one we often must re-learn—the importance of support. I specifically signed up for this marathon in Indianapolis so that my family could see me run (did I mention Indiana is flat?). As planned, I expectantly learned lessons from a running clinic and multiple shorter races throughout my 20 week training schedule. I even learned lessons I didn’t anticipate such as how to “recover” from a race that just didn’t go as planned. But, my most important lesson was a reminder of the value of friendship and support. I loved the clinic because it challenged me physically, but mostly because I ran alongside up to 60 fellow runners who cheered for each other and noticed when someone was absent. I also loved running my long training runs with the support of a coach, and his beloved cooler of water and Gatorade, and fellow runners. We ran in heat and a lot of rain (see October entry on Amica marathon). Alone, such runs are often skipped or miserable, but alongside friends, I found myself laughing and sometimes even singing during torrential downpours and booming thunder. While the simple presence of the person next to you is support, so is the laughter and song that you remember in many following runs.
I was powerfully reminded of support when about a month before the marathon, one of my closest friends from Indiana lost her father, Tim, to a Diabetes related illness. I was unable to fly attend the funeral, and instead found myself longing for a way to show support from 1,000 miles away. I suddenly found myself researching the American Diabetes Association and e-mailing family and friends asking for donations in Tim’s honor as I ran the race in his memory. His death also forced me to look back at my life and reminded me that all of my accomplishments in life were achieved with the support of my family and mentor’s like Tim. Once again this proved true throughout the marathon. While during the race, unlike my training runs, I did not have a partner directly next to me, I was surrounded and motivated by support. I was moved by the support of my friends in the Running Club and their well wishes, tips, and good luck trinkets (who knew how important chapstick and a lucky hair tie could be). I was also moved by the support of my family and their cheers along the course. There is just nothing like high-fiving your Dad, seeing your Mom and Sister holding bright yellow signs proudly, hearing your 80-year-old Grandfather yell “pick up the pace,” having professional style action photos from your uncle, or having your husband run the last mile with you in jeans after seeing the pain in my face. As a result, I did not cross the finish line alone, but with Tim on my mind, my friends in my heart, my family by my side, and a reminder of one of the most valuable lessons in life.
I'll post more details and photos of the race shortly, but first, must well, must take another nap:)
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Made the News
This was the local paper from my hometown the Saturday of the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon (marathon #2). I ran the marathon in honor of my friend's father, and to aid the American Diabetes Association, who recently passed away after I couldn't attend the funeral. I was pleased that I even made the byline at the top of the front page:)
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
A Wild and Wet Ride
Before I agreed to jump in and help my friend (from the running club and my track group) run her first marathon, I checked out the marathon website. It read something like: The Amica Marathon offers runners a historic and scenic course. The route begins in downtown Newport, runs alongside the harbor, past picturesque Ocean Drive and along historic Bellevue Avenue. The second half of the 26.2 mile course runs besides the Sakonnet River. The finish line is at scenic Easton’s Beach.
Sounded great to me and I needed to get in my 22 mile training run the same weekend so why not run most of Amica with a friend? Plus, we could make a weekend away of it in a beautiful town. Well . . . sometimes things don't go as planned.
The Amica Marathon website now reads "In some of the worst imaginable running conditions, over 2,500 runners finished this year’s Amica Marathon . . . The perseverance of all runners, volunteers and fans was truly admirable, we look forward to seeing you all, and better weather in 2010!". Here are some more details about the weather: the forecast told of 48°F (which is normally perfect for running a marathon), 100% rain, and 28mph northeasterly winds gusting to 40. Yes, we'd be running in a what out here in New England they call a nor'easter. If you are uneducated about a nor'easter Wikipedia describes it as: a type of macro-scale storm along the East Coast of the United States, so named because the winds come from the northeasta storm. These storms include thick, dark, low-level clouds that often block out the sun (check) and the precipitation can range from a torrential downpour (check) to a fine mist (I wish). Low temperatures (check--though actually ideal for running without the next point) and high wind gusts (yes, this point--check) are also associated with a nor'easter.
Regardless of this--I realize "shit happens, it is how you handle it that matters." We handled it by running, laughing, and smiling. I won't say my friend wasn't disappointed, who wouldn't be, but as she put it "I didn't train for 16 weeks to not run". Plus, I learned another valuable lesson--while the selection of one's running apparel is important and can make or break your comfort level, sometimes some good old bodyglide (think vasoline but way better) and a vinal poncho are all you need. (I'd like to thank the runner that felt too hot in this at mile 3, I also thought I would remove the poncho a couple miles into my run, but well, then came the wind).
Sounded great to me and I needed to get in my 22 mile training run the same weekend so why not run most of Amica with a friend? Plus, we could make a weekend away of it in a beautiful town. Well . . . sometimes things don't go as planned.
The Amica Marathon website now reads "In some of the worst imaginable running conditions, over 2,500 runners finished this year’s Amica Marathon . . . The perseverance of all runners, volunteers and fans was truly admirable, we look forward to seeing you all, and better weather in 2010!". Here are some more details about the weather: the forecast told of 48°F (which is normally perfect for running a marathon), 100% rain, and 28mph northeasterly winds gusting to 40. Yes, we'd be running in a what out here in New England they call a nor'easter. If you are uneducated about a nor'easter Wikipedia describes it as: a type of macro-scale storm along the East Coast of the United States, so named because the winds come from the northeasta storm. These storms include thick, dark, low-level clouds that often block out the sun (check) and the precipitation can range from a torrential downpour (check) to a fine mist (I wish). Low temperatures (check--though actually ideal for running without the next point) and high wind gusts (yes, this point--check) are also associated with a nor'easter.
Regardless of this--I realize "shit happens, it is how you handle it that matters." We handled it by running, laughing, and smiling. I won't say my friend wasn't disappointed, who wouldn't be, but as she put it "I didn't train for 16 weeks to not run". Plus, I learned another valuable lesson--while the selection of one's running apparel is important and can make or break your comfort level, sometimes some good old bodyglide (think vasoline but way better) and a vinal poncho are all you need. (I'd like to thank the runner that felt too hot in this at mile 3, I also thought I would remove the poncho a couple miles into my run, but well, then came the wind).
Don't you think I look like a caped super hero? No?
Here are some blow by blows and photos from the course. . .
My friend left to go get on the bus to the starting line and I continued to listen to the rain and eat my peanut butter toast (a fabulous pre and post race treat if I do say so myself). My husband and I drove to Starbucks for coffee and so I could use the bathroom one more time. We watched the runners take off and jumped in the car to "race" them to the 4 mile mark. The 3 mile and 4 mile marks were just across from one another with portapots in between. As soon as we saw the lead runner hit mile 3, I jumped out of the car and hit the portapots and then cheared on runners before jumping to the 4 mile marker and watching for my friend. (My husband in the meantime drove the course out of town to our warm dry house--he noted later that the course was beautiful and maybe in better weather we could return.) I was watching for my friend and chearing on the runners. I had my eyes peeled for her white long sleeve shirt, and then. . . I saw her face, and what appeared to be a black vest--nope no vest, she had wisely found a trashbag and made a vest out of it. While sportier than my poncho, a gift from a passing runner, could she fly faster than a speeding bullet with her vest? She pulled two handwarmers from her gloves for me and off we went:)
I joined her at the perfect time because within a half mile we watched beautiful huge waves crash along the rocks on our right while viewing gorgeous homes on our left. Into mile 2 for me and almost 7 for her, we turned into the wind and I realized the poncho was here to stay. We were essentially headed into the wind until we finally turned around at mile 21. Plus, by now I'd stepped into enough puddles, or splashed myself with my own feet enough that my shoes were completely soaked. I believe it was at this point that my friend beemed a smile at me and realized she was in fact running a marathon!
From mile 7-10 ish we ran by mansions. Some people were singing behind us and we joined in until we realized they were almost done with the half-marathon and well the chearfulness faided a bit for us:) Running by the mansions was fun though--here's what the Breakers (built by Vanderbilts) and the Marble house look like on a sunnier day. . .
Well, if the wind was bad before, the last mile or so surrounding the half marathon point was the worst and this was the only time I thought I might have to pull out the stops to keep Kathey moving. See, to add insult to injury, the marathon runners were routed to go right past the half marathon finish line and practically through it in a river 2" deep which could not be avoided. We actually had to ask around to figure out where the marathoners were supposed to go--into the wind again was where and through one more unavoidable and rather large river into the second half where the wind actually howled for a quarter mile until we turned a corner.
We started our first of two out and backs making a good climb uphill from 17.5 until the top of 18. We'd see the crest of that hill again on the way back, but this time we were running into the wind. We made it "up and over" and onto a small second hill. Here was passed fellow a Wicked Running Club member coming out of the turn around ahead of us and cheared for her. It is always nice to see a familiar face. Suddenly my hands were freezing and I realized my cotton "throwaway" gloves were still on and soaking wet with the hand warmers acting as little pockets of water inside--I ripped off the gloves and kept on trucking. During these double digit miles, we passed more "starter castles" and large open lawns with fancy iron gates, even if smaller scaled compared to the mansions. I recall a white house along the coast with bright ocean blue trip that was stunning and looked like a postcard from Greece to me.
We hit mile 20 and cheared a little--my friend was in unchartered territory and while her hamstring was angry at her, she seemed to be right with the world. We even picked up the pace. My friend claimed after the marathon that mile 20 was her favorite point in the marathon and that she felt great:) We proceeded back along the opposide side of the road we had already traveled chearing on almost every runner we passed along the way. At mile 25.75 I told her she was on her own and took off (finally sans poncho) to beat her to the finish and chear her on. Unfortunately, I encountered a maze and even running at top speed didn't manage to see her cross the finish--a disappointment but I didnt' want to run in with those who were official runners. The camera man at the finish line had also given up on the weather and missed taking my friends photo--not cool Amica!
With lots of shivering, a quarter mile walk to the busses, and a short drive back to the condo she was staying at (with buttwarmers on again)--the event was over. She was beaming and teary eyed and I, I had earned my way into my taper weeks where I would run as intensively but fewer miles and prepare myself for my own marathon less than 3 weeks away!
Hampton Half Marathon
I recently ran the Hampton Half Marathon in Hampton, N.H. again this year--my sixth half marathon now. I ran this race last fall as well and finished in 2 hours. This year, I ran with three other Wicked Running Club memebers (see photo below taken just before the race). The course proved pretty again. I went out hoping to P.R. for the half, and instead had a challenging run and learned a valuable lesson.
Last year when trying to break the half I ran behind a pacer, someone the course has run at a specific pace (with a large sign with that pace on their back) so that people hoping to finish in a cetain time can run along and make it. The pacer last year went out too fast and I broke the 2 hours only after letting them pass me and catching them later in the race, saving my energy instead of buring out early on. This year, another pacer did this and while I was focusing on my own pace, the fact that a pacer who should have been behind me and was instead ahead of me played with my mind. As a result, I didn't check my pace and went out too fast for 3 miles resulting in the rest of the race feeling hard and finishing a little slower than I had hoped.
Yet, while not a PR, I had a great time--I saw two friends complete their first half marathons and had another ride along with me in the car. Further, she helped me remember that this was in face my 6th half-marathon!!! I hadn't even realized it at the time and had a lot to be proud of regardless of any pace or P.R. So, I am happy to report that yes, I have now run 6 half-marathons, numerous races ranging from a 5k to 20 miles, and one marathon with another one less than three weeks away. Plus, I watched friends smile through 13.2 miles and was reminded of why I run--because I love it. Yes, I love getting faster too, but no matter what even when I was first running and slower--I run because I can and because I smile when I do.
Oh, and I eat when I run too--it seems all of the professional photos of me were of me eating GU.
Last year when trying to break the half I ran behind a pacer, someone the course has run at a specific pace (with a large sign with that pace on their back) so that people hoping to finish in a cetain time can run along and make it. The pacer last year went out too fast and I broke the 2 hours only after letting them pass me and catching them later in the race, saving my energy instead of buring out early on. This year, another pacer did this and while I was focusing on my own pace, the fact that a pacer who should have been behind me and was instead ahead of me played with my mind. As a result, I didn't check my pace and went out too fast for 3 miles resulting in the rest of the race feeling hard and finishing a little slower than I had hoped.
Yet, while not a PR, I had a great time--I saw two friends complete their first half marathons and had another ride along with me in the car. Further, she helped me remember that this was in face my 6th half-marathon!!! I hadn't even realized it at the time and had a lot to be proud of regardless of any pace or P.R. So, I am happy to report that yes, I have now run 6 half-marathons, numerous races ranging from a 5k to 20 miles, and one marathon with another one less than three weeks away. Plus, I watched friends smile through 13.2 miles and was reminded of why I run--because I love it. Yes, I love getting faster too, but no matter what even when I was first running and slower--I run because I can and because I smile when I do.
Oh, and I eat when I run too--it seems all of the professional photos of me were of me eating GU.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
More than Half-Way To Marathon #2
So, I realize I have not blogged in a long time--I regret this and will give the usual excuse that I have been busy (I mean heck training for a marathon takes a lot of time). Seriously though, we have had a lot going on in our lives--work has been super busy, it was summer briefly in New England, and well now football started (Go COLTS). From August to September, I got on an airplane more than 10 different times traveling to Chicago, Southern California (Laguna Niguel and San Francisco in one trip), D.C., Napa (the one trip for personal travel), and San Francisco. During all but one of these trips I was working crazy hours for work and squeezing in training but not always sleep. Somehow (thank you vitamin C) I managed to stay healthy and even ran some races on the weekend--very little sewing though.
The racing events:
--I signed up for a marathon training course. I have track practice once a week with about 40 other runners and a COACH--I have a COACH:) It is great--we run hill repeats and sprints and all sorts of stuff that would bore you all to tears but gives me chills of excitement. Yes, Mom, I do remember collapsing on the track in high school and had a brief moment of fear when I started but quickly got over it when I realized that now at 29 I am not bad running around the track and can do a mile around the track almost 6 minutes faster than in high school.:)
--I also now meet with this track group to do my long runs on the weekend. We meet at a local beach parking lot Saturday morning, by 7 am, and start most runs with 3.5 miles of hills and then head out for longer distances sometimes crossing three towns. It is nice because I have great friends to run with; get my long run done early on the weekend; have my coach out there to give water, Gatorade, and advice; and end at the icy ocean for a nice refreshing soak (much like the ice bathes in prior posts). I have met others with tons of marathon experience and have made friends and running partners with some running their first. It is nice to be able to even give advice to others and help my friends pace themselves for their own big day.
--I had my very first trail race where I was literally leaping tree roots and climbing steep loose-dirt hills. And, I LOVED it! This was a ton of fun and I ran the loop twice--once as a racer and once with a friend just for fun.
--I ran a 5K for the first time since I started running two years ago and set a PR by around 8 minutes dropping from a 33:18 to just under 26. I have now broken that PR as well thanks to the track practice:) (As a shout out and side note, the friend who talked me into that first 5K just finished her own first half-marathon and I am wicked proud of her!)
--I ran the famous (okay for New Englanders it is famous) Falmouth Road Race. This race is a 7.2 mile race in the Cape and has a limited entry number with a lottery system to get into the race with 25,000 runners and beautiful views of the coast. The light house view at the beginning of the race is in many films apparently (see photo below). My husband and I enjoyed a beautiful weekend and an okay race on my part (they can't all be your best race right).
--I ran my first official 10K last weekend, the day after running 20 miles mind you, and had an amazing race. I ran a 8:07 pace to finish 6.2 miles in 50:25. Okay, so my legs were shot the next day, but man, what a heck of a good time. (For photos go to capstonephoto.com and click on the Lone Gull 10K and then search by my last name.) The Lone Gull race was one of the most beautiful races in nearby Glocester (see photos below).
--I have run many of my long runs with a great friend from my running club and have laughed (and sung) through 16 miles of pouring rain with puddles up over my socks and encouraged her through the last 4 miles of a twenty miler refusing to let her quit (but telling her she could cry all she wanted--I know I am mean) and celebrating with her at the end (she is going to have a great marathon!).
Now, I have 6 more weeks until the marathon. I have just two real long runs ahead of me (a 20 and a 22) as well as a half-marathon, a 5K, and a 6.66 Devil run (come on I live in Salem) before marathon day--Nov. 7th. My spirits are high, the fridge full of carbs and protein, and my sleeps deep. I promise to blog lots more in the coming weeks before the marathon!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
The Marathon Bug Bit--#2 here I come!
I got bit by that bug my running friends warned me about. . . I have signed up for another marathon. I new I would want to do another as soon as I was done with Burlington (hopefully this not a sign that I didn't run hard enough). I have even set my sights on the possibility of grand plans for my approaching 30th birthday next June--3 marathons by 30? I think this would be an amazing goal and accomplishment for me. While I wait to figure that out--I registered for the Indianapolis Monumental marathon in November in Indiana. The plane ticket is purchased and the first week of training was this week! For this marathon, I also signed up for a marathon training group in Salem. For 12 weeks I'll have a real coach and track practice once a week with group runs on Saturday mornings at 7 am for our "long runs." I think this will help mix it up a bit and give me new routes to run and good people to train with (I loved training with my last partner for the record).
Here is the website if you want to join me or just check out the marathon info: Indianapolis Monumental Marathon Link.
Here is the website if you want to join me or just check out the marathon info: Indianapolis Monumental Marathon Link.
Back on the Blog
I am disappointed in myself that my last blog was June 1--this is after all about more than running and I haven't updated the blog since just after the marathon. So, here is what I have been up to and what is to come in the near future. Soon after the marathon, my husband turned 30. I threw him a surprise weekend where his mom flew in (he thought he was going somewhere: packed a suitcase, went to the airport, walked to the check in counter, and then saw his mom!), we had a great seafood dinner, we rented a sailboat and we had a party with close friends.
Then, my little sister proved to me that we are both getting older by getting married. I flew back to Indiana for a week to host a shower for her, help prepare for the event, and spend some time with family. The wedding was a beautiful country themed wedding held outside at one of her friend's homes. She really pulled a lot of different ideas together and it worked. In the photos below, my paternal randmother (the big sewer) quickly determined the blue ties on sis' dress would be prettier if we. . . and then three perfect bows appeared. Man I love that she continues to teach me amazing skills (yes, like Martha Stewart I appreciate a perfect bow). After her wedding, my maternal grandfather had surgery and I wanted to be there. It was nice getting to visit with him and ask advice of him like I have always done.
Then, my little sister proved to me that we are both getting older by getting married. I flew back to Indiana for a week to host a shower for her, help prepare for the event, and spend some time with family. The wedding was a beautiful country themed wedding held outside at one of her friend's homes. She really pulled a lot of different ideas together and it worked. In the photos below, my paternal randmother (the big sewer) quickly determined the blue ties on sis' dress would be prettier if we. . . and then three perfect bows appeared. Man I love that she continues to teach me amazing skills (yes, like Martha Stewart I appreciate a perfect bow). After her wedding, my maternal grandfather had surgery and I wanted to be there. It was nice getting to visit with him and ask advice of him like I have always done.
In late June, one of my friends and I threw another friend a bachelorette party in Boston. We made a girls day of it rather than being raunchy or anything: nails, cocktails, dinner and drinks at one poshy bar with dancing at another. I wish her the best for her Irish wedding and regret that we won't be attending in person. 
I spent the next few weeks recovering from all the business early summer brought and getting the piles of to do's taken care of that accumulate when you are busy with life. These to do's include taking Otis to the Ocean where he learned to swim. Of course, activities also included sewing!! I mostly dabled in hemming pants and minor repairs (a snagged favorite sweater, a torn hem on some blouses, making some older and larger summer tops fit my slimmer runners physique (hehe)). I am hoping to get to some larger projects soon. 
Monday, June 1, 2009
Sewing and Running
The sewing and running combo is back. Today--post-marathon run #2 was successful. My husband joined me for a really nice 4 mile run around the cemetary again after work. I must be getting faster because he decided to run with me the whole way despite my encouragement to feel free to leave me. It felt good. We had a great post-run dinner of chicken sausage and roasted bell pepper pasta with beer from Burlington.
And, some sewing. I have a rather large pile of pants that need altered for myself, a neighbor, and my huband. I think it is about 8 pairs. So, the marking and seam ripper in hand, I at least got started. Plus, in 10 minutes I was able to reduce my marathon t-shirt by at least a size taking 1.5 inches off each side. At least it doesn't look like a night shirt now:)
And, some sewing. I have a rather large pile of pants that need altered for myself, a neighbor, and my huband. I think it is about 8 pairs. So, the marking and seam ripper in hand, I at least got started. Plus, in 10 minutes I was able to reduce my marathon t-shirt by at least a size taking 1.5 inches off each side. At least it doesn't look like a night shirt now:)
There Goes Another One
Hmm, looks like the rain and pounding on my poor toes during the marathon has resulted in two black toenails. Not uncommon and yes, this has happened before, but does not help the arguement that running makes you better all over--not quite from your head all the way to your feet:) So, solution. . . paint the toes the darkest red I can find and wait a month or two for new toenails. These will probably come off within an month and then look like what I guess alien toenails look like for a bit. Sorry readers--no photos for this post:)
A Week Later
The first week after the marathon went about as I expected. I was definitely sore on Monday and a little on Tuesday, but quickly learned that moving around was my best friend. I went back to work on Tuesday, but each hour I got up and walked around which helped keep me from getting stiff. Wednesday, I even worked out for 25 minutes at lunch pedaling on a stationary bike which did wear me out. I also found that I was generally worn out each day and requiring more sleep than usual--almost like when you are coming down with something or just getting over a bug.
Saturday was my first "run" post marathon. I went out for a run with my husband and ran with him for a mile "warm up" before he set out for slightly faster speeds and I continued slowly around our favorite cemetery. As a side note, the cemetery is a beautiful place to run--the pathways are asphalt, the grounds are well managed, there is a pond and tons of shade, and it is quiet with very little traffic. I managed to continue on for 45 minutes traveling a little over 4 miles (I even made it up and down a couple of small hills). Slow, but not bad. My body felt good and it was so nice to get the legs moving again. Ahh, nap time!
Saturday was my first "run" post marathon. I went out for a run with my husband and ran with him for a mile "warm up" before he set out for slightly faster speeds and I continued slowly around our favorite cemetery. As a side note, the cemetery is a beautiful place to run--the pathways are asphalt, the grounds are well managed, there is a pond and tons of shade, and it is quiet with very little traffic. I managed to continue on for 45 minutes traveling a little over 4 miles (I even made it up and down a couple of small hills). Slow, but not bad. My body felt good and it was so nice to get the legs moving again. Ahh, nap time!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Official Marathon Photos Available Online
The photos from the professional photographers at the marathon are now available for perusing. Check out my photos (note the finish line time is 4:18, but this does not account for the time it took me to get to the start line--my chip time was 4:16).
http://www.asiorders.com/go.asp?53717144
http://www.asiorders.com/go.asp?53717144
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Marathon Memoir Part 3--After the Marathon
I plunge myself into an ice bath before heading to the hotel pool for some shallow-end walking. As enticing as the hot tub looked, I avoided it knowing the cold water was much better for me. Then, a long hot shower. My husband asked if I felt different after the race. I noted that my quads were increasingly sore. . . not apparently what he meant. I didn’t feel like a different person or anything, still same old me. But I did admit to feeling strong and proud of myself. Then, in the suitcase on top of the wonderful dry clothes I reached for, was a jewelry box that wasn’t there before. Seemed the support group has not ended and I opened a beautiful necklace from my husband. We laughed about the what ifs: what if I hadn’t finished? He told me I deserved it and I realized that it represented the real medal for finishing the marathon—the medal of support and will act as a reminder of the ring of support I had around me throughout the race and to get to the race. Even when I couldn’t see them, I knew that support team was there. Support, as I have noted before, comes in so many different forms, but on this day and at this race—my friends supported me by getting up early, riding a school bus, standing in the rain for hours, clapping, and taking photos. Other friends supported me by thinking of me and through congrats afterwards. But for my support group in Burlington—I will never be able to tell you what it meant to see you, and to know I would see you, in so many places along my route. Just like in the months leading up to the marathon—my support team was there when I needed them!
After a break, we ate the most amazing pizza I have ever tasted at Flatbread pizza. We walked along and watched the sunset along the boardwalk where I had crossed the finish line hours earlier. A prom was taking place and we laughed about old times and dresses we now wouldn’t let “our kids” leave the house wearing. We saw dogs and even ran into our friends and took a photo. Then, of course, off to Ben and Jerry’s where I shared a LARGE and TASTY sundae with my training partner—she deserved it too!
Monday, we went out for breakfast, visited the Magic Hat Brewery where my husband had some fun too, and stopped at the Vermont Teddy Bear Company where I got my last congrats hug before leaving town. . .
After cuddles with Otis and time on the couch, it was an early night to bed for me Monday night and back to work on Tuesday.
After a break, we ate the most amazing pizza I have ever tasted at Flatbread pizza. We walked along and watched the sunset along the boardwalk where I had crossed the finish line hours earlier. A prom was taking place and we laughed about old times and dresses we now wouldn’t let “our kids” leave the house wearing. We saw dogs and even ran into our friends and took a photo. Then, of course, off to Ben and Jerry’s where I shared a LARGE and TASTY sundae with my training partner—she deserved it too!
Monday, we went out for breakfast, visited the Magic Hat Brewery where my husband had some fun too, and stopped at the Vermont Teddy Bear Company where I got my last congrats hug before leaving town. . .
After cuddles with Otis and time on the couch, it was an early night to bed for me Monday night and back to work on Tuesday.
Marathon Memoir Part 2--The Race
And we were off. . .At the start, I was forced to keep my pace down due to the large number of people clumped around me. I used this as an opportunity to check out my surroundings, the crowd, and the increasing rain. Hey—I have run in rain before—check out the Eastern States blog entry, so I knew what I was in for and I loved that race. I thought maybe this is a good sign and thought of my running partner. At mile 3 I got my first cheer from my support group. I waved fanatically because I was so happy to see them and to hear my name. I tried to show them just how thankful I am for them.
Then, I laughed at a guy with a sign reading “you are not almost there.” Reality check! The rain picked up some more and by mile 5 I was officially soaked and the water poured off my hat anytime I turned my head. I found myself thinking that this Nike hat was one of the smartest purchases ever. We looped down and around a point giving us middle packers (woo hoo, I was just shy of the middle of the pack) our first sight of the wheel chair competitors and the lead runners. The first woman looked amazingly strong! Better yet, I saw there were a LOT of people behind me and I cheered them on as I passed by them. Then, I looked down and noticed my pale blue shorts were stuck to me and definitely had turned see- through—thank goodness running shorts have built in briefs. Didn’t matter—on I went! Around mile 8 I ran alongside a friendly group of 3 people who run the course every year—they provided some supportive comments and gave the first timer some advice about the “big hill at mile 15” and the finish—they advised me to go slow on the hill because the drums at mile 15 will get you moving too fast up the hill and you’ll pay for it with burning quads. Note taken and thanks given, then on I went—sticking to my own pace and my own thoughts. We looped back through town and I saw my supporters again at mile 9 along the brick walkway and shops through downtown. I felt my smile broaden and my pace quicken. Wooo girl, no need to be running under a 9 minute pace at mile 9—slow it down.
I backed down again but felt amazing and naturally kept the pace up through our run along the outskirts of town—past the Lake Champlain chocolate factory (ohh, note-to-self to come back here) and along part of the bike trail. At mile 13.1 a lot of the relay runners were celebrating being done—I was celebrating being halfway done and just enjoyed the additional crowds the exchange point brought. I saw my first downed runner at mile 14—whew that was awakening. Legs feel good, check, heart rate good, check, energy still up, check. Ha, the “not almost there” guy appeared again and I gave him a big smile. That smile got me through to mile 15—the famous “assault on battery” and the largest hill in the race. As I turned the corner I heard drums. There was a large group of taiko drummers at the base of the hill and metal barriers with tons of people going up and up as far as I could see.
I heard the guy from mile 8 in my head saying take it easy, then, I saw the woman next to me was barefoot and thought—I have on shoes, no way is she beating me. Halfway up the hill I felt the burn, I was still slower than my set pace, and then—my cheering section. They had stationed themselves at the halfway point in the hill and were cheering me up and up.
At mile 18, right at the entryway of the mulched bike trail, I saw my second downed runner—the aid was already called, but this person didn’t look good. Just keep going and . . .legs, check, heart rate, check, energy, check. . . I start to feel myself slow a little through the second neighborhood, but was still running a solid pace and felt great. Some kids were “playing” musical instruments in their driveway and I picked it up to escape:) We hit the biggest steepest downhill in the race at mile 21. Whew, I felt those quads kick in and they started to quiver. I told myself that I had felt this before and knew to just keep pushing and it will subside—it did by mile 22.5. I heard “lookin’ good 146” and hoped it was true and that this stranger’s support is not from me looking like I needed the support. Regardless, I gave the thumbs up and continued on enjoying the view of Lake Champlain and the bike trail. Then I heard “3 miles left, almost there” and realize. . clearly this person is a liar and didn’t communicate with the guy with the sign! Comparatively speaking yes, I am closer to the finish than the start, but these 3 miles can be very very hard. Wait—I recognized a white baseball cap—I saw my Carlisle friend up ahead and caught her. She seemed hot and was dumping water on herself. I kept up my pace knowing if I stopped or slowed it would hurt. Then she caught up to me with just 1.5 miles left—I thought we’ve got this and the pace picked up. The crowd thickened immensely and the cheers were amazing. Just before the big mile 26 sign I saw my support group again! I waved, gave them thanks for their cheers, and tried to memorize the smile showing, beneath the camera, on my husband’s face.
Now, where is that darn finish line? The thick crowd continued. . . I heard the announcer say that all those crossing the finish line were well ahead of the national average for men and women. Woohooo. Alison reached back and grabbed my hand as we crossed the finish! What a great feeling! A woman lifted my foot onto a bench and removed the timing chip from my shoe and said “way to go.” Another man put a medal around my neck while another wrapped me in a mylar blanket. The weight of the metal hit me physically and mentally. I instantly headed for the massage tent, our meeting place, with my fellow finisher and her partner in tow. I felt like I just needed to keep walking or shuffling, it hurt to stop. What? no line for a massage. I hopped in line and apologized numerous times to the woman about being so wet and all. I mean, water rushed out of my shoe when I took it off and she was touching my socked foot! I looked up and saw my husband smiling at me on the other side of the tent and gave him my biggest smile back. He was brave enough to hug me, as was my training partner, and we chatted about how I felt. They monitored my shaking, I was suddenly freezing, and pulled the clothes out of my bag for me before ushering me to the Ben and Jerry’s truck—yup, Ben and Jerry’s at the finish. I actually had to force it down because I wasn’t the least bit hungry. On the way back to the busses it was more clothes and a forced additional Gu for calories. Man—that stuff is nasty when you are running and intolerable when you stand still!
Then, I laughed at a guy with a sign reading “you are not almost there.” Reality check! The rain picked up some more and by mile 5 I was officially soaked and the water poured off my hat anytime I turned my head. I found myself thinking that this Nike hat was one of the smartest purchases ever. We looped down and around a point giving us middle packers (woo hoo, I was just shy of the middle of the pack) our first sight of the wheel chair competitors and the lead runners. The first woman looked amazingly strong! Better yet, I saw there were a LOT of people behind me and I cheered them on as I passed by them. Then, I looked down and noticed my pale blue shorts were stuck to me and definitely had turned see- through—thank goodness running shorts have built in briefs. Didn’t matter—on I went! Around mile 8 I ran alongside a friendly group of 3 people who run the course every year—they provided some supportive comments and gave the first timer some advice about the “big hill at mile 15” and the finish—they advised me to go slow on the hill because the drums at mile 15 will get you moving too fast up the hill and you’ll pay for it with burning quads. Note taken and thanks given, then on I went—sticking to my own pace and my own thoughts. We looped back through town and I saw my supporters again at mile 9 along the brick walkway and shops through downtown. I felt my smile broaden and my pace quicken. Wooo girl, no need to be running under a 9 minute pace at mile 9—slow it down.
I backed down again but felt amazing and naturally kept the pace up through our run along the outskirts of town—past the Lake Champlain chocolate factory (ohh, note-to-self to come back here) and along part of the bike trail. At mile 13.1 a lot of the relay runners were celebrating being done—I was celebrating being halfway done and just enjoyed the additional crowds the exchange point brought. I saw my first downed runner at mile 14—whew that was awakening. Legs feel good, check, heart rate good, check, energy still up, check. Ha, the “not almost there” guy appeared again and I gave him a big smile. That smile got me through to mile 15—the famous “assault on battery” and the largest hill in the race. As I turned the corner I heard drums. There was a large group of taiko drummers at the base of the hill and metal barriers with tons of people going up and up as far as I could see.
I heard the guy from mile 8 in my head saying take it easy, then, I saw the woman next to me was barefoot and thought—I have on shoes, no way is she beating me. Halfway up the hill I felt the burn, I was still slower than my set pace, and then—my cheering section. They had stationed themselves at the halfway point in the hill and were cheering me up and up.
At mile 18, right at the entryway of the mulched bike trail, I saw my second downed runner—the aid was already called, but this person didn’t look good. Just keep going and . . .legs, check, heart rate, check, energy, check. . . I start to feel myself slow a little through the second neighborhood, but was still running a solid pace and felt great. Some kids were “playing” musical instruments in their driveway and I picked it up to escape:) We hit the biggest steepest downhill in the race at mile 21. Whew, I felt those quads kick in and they started to quiver. I told myself that I had felt this before and knew to just keep pushing and it will subside—it did by mile 22.5. I heard “lookin’ good 146” and hoped it was true and that this stranger’s support is not from me looking like I needed the support. Regardless, I gave the thumbs up and continued on enjoying the view of Lake Champlain and the bike trail. Then I heard “3 miles left, almost there” and realize. . clearly this person is a liar and didn’t communicate with the guy with the sign! Comparatively speaking yes, I am closer to the finish than the start, but these 3 miles can be very very hard. Wait—I recognized a white baseball cap—I saw my Carlisle friend up ahead and caught her. She seemed hot and was dumping water on herself. I kept up my pace knowing if I stopped or slowed it would hurt. Then she caught up to me with just 1.5 miles left—I thought we’ve got this and the pace picked up. The crowd thickened immensely and the cheers were amazing. Just before the big mile 26 sign I saw my support group again! I waved, gave them thanks for their cheers, and tried to memorize the smile showing, beneath the camera, on my husband’s face.
Now, where is that darn finish line? The thick crowd continued. . . I heard the announcer say that all those crossing the finish line were well ahead of the national average for men and women. Woohooo. Alison reached back and grabbed my hand as we crossed the finish! What a great feeling! A woman lifted my foot onto a bench and removed the timing chip from my shoe and said “way to go.” Another man put a medal around my neck while another wrapped me in a mylar blanket. The weight of the metal hit me physically and mentally. I instantly headed for the massage tent, our meeting place, with my fellow finisher and her partner in tow. I felt like I just needed to keep walking or shuffling, it hurt to stop. What? no line for a massage. I hopped in line and apologized numerous times to the woman about being so wet and all. I mean, water rushed out of my shoe when I took it off and she was touching my socked foot! I looked up and saw my husband smiling at me on the other side of the tent and gave him my biggest smile back. He was brave enough to hug me, as was my training partner, and we chatted about how I felt. They monitored my shaking, I was suddenly freezing, and pulled the clothes out of my bag for me before ushering me to the Ben and Jerry’s truck—yup, Ben and Jerry’s at the finish. I actually had to force it down because I wasn’t the least bit hungry. On the way back to the busses it was more clothes and a forced additional Gu for calories. Man—that stuff is nasty when you are running and intolerable when you stand still!
Marathon Memoir Part 1
I am told there will never be another Marathon like the first. As a result, it seems only fitting that I try and capture all the amazing memories and moments of the Marathon weekend in Burlington that I can. To help prevent boredom, this memoir is in three parts. . .
Marathon Weekend Part 1: Saturday
Saturday morning I woke up and took Otis on an easy jog for just under 2 miles. I am not sure the distance, I didn’t wear my watch—heaven forbid I unpack it and not repack it or something. Plus, the purpose for Saturday was to just get the legs moving and get some exercise in. Then, we loaded the car, yes I double checked that the running bag was packed twice, and were off to Burlington—the new car’s second trip to Vermont almost exactly one year later. I was quickly reminded of how I always love the drive through New Hampshire with the rolling hills and green everywhere. I felt calm and relaxed.
We went straight to the hotel with the marathon expo and packets for the runners. I grabbed my t-shirt, timing chip, and official runner’s bag. I got number 146—whew can you say early registration? There are over 3,000 marathoners! We wandered through the exhibitor area and grabbed our first nibble of some Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. Ben and Jerry’s factory is in Burlington so you will see that name come up a lot throughout this monologue. Then, off we went to find some food. We hit Burlington’s downtown area and Farmer’s market where we snagged some great food and checked out all the dogs and people (we are more dog watchers I think). I understand from our friends that my husband was on dog watch all weekend and pet almost every pup he saw. We grabbed some more food at our first Brewery stop—the Vermont Pub and Brewery. Here we met my training partner and her husband. We wandered around downtown—made an official stop at the Ben and Jerry’s ice cream store downtown (we would visit here again Sunday) and then checked into the hotel. I instantly fell asleep for an hour while Justin watched t.v.—nerves, what nerves? Then, off to Stowe with some friends—our running pal from the Carlisle run and her partner, another friend from Somerville (who had just run the Boston marathon 1 month earlier!), and the four of us. Stowe was beautiful and the Pie in the Sky pizza place was great. I had a big bowl of spaghetti with meatballs and ate it all—clean plate club!
After dinner, I laid out every item I would need for the next day and pinned my number to my shirt. I had this nice little row of all the items I would need—vaseline, body glide, sun screen, filled fuel belt (potable water), clothes, socks, shoes, and a bag for after with dry clothes, band aids, advil, etc. Then off to bed.
Marathon Weekend Part 1: Saturday
Saturday morning I woke up and took Otis on an easy jog for just under 2 miles. I am not sure the distance, I didn’t wear my watch—heaven forbid I unpack it and not repack it or something. Plus, the purpose for Saturday was to just get the legs moving and get some exercise in. Then, we loaded the car, yes I double checked that the running bag was packed twice, and were off to Burlington—the new car’s second trip to Vermont almost exactly one year later. I was quickly reminded of how I always love the drive through New Hampshire with the rolling hills and green everywhere. I felt calm and relaxed.
We went straight to the hotel with the marathon expo and packets for the runners. I grabbed my t-shirt, timing chip, and official runner’s bag. I got number 146—whew can you say early registration? There are over 3,000 marathoners! We wandered through the exhibitor area and grabbed our first nibble of some Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. Ben and Jerry’s factory is in Burlington so you will see that name come up a lot throughout this monologue. Then, off we went to find some food. We hit Burlington’s downtown area and Farmer’s market where we snagged some great food and checked out all the dogs and people (we are more dog watchers I think). I understand from our friends that my husband was on dog watch all weekend and pet almost every pup he saw. We grabbed some more food at our first Brewery stop—the Vermont Pub and Brewery. Here we met my training partner and her husband. We wandered around downtown—made an official stop at the Ben and Jerry’s ice cream store downtown (we would visit here again Sunday) and then checked into the hotel. I instantly fell asleep for an hour while Justin watched t.v.—nerves, what nerves? Then, off to Stowe with some friends—our running pal from the Carlisle run and her partner, another friend from Somerville (who had just run the Boston marathon 1 month earlier!), and the four of us. Stowe was beautiful and the Pie in the Sky pizza place was great. I had a big bowl of spaghetti with meatballs and ate it all—clean plate club!
After dinner, I laid out every item I would need for the next day and pinned my number to my shirt. I had this nice little row of all the items I would need—vaseline, body glide, sun screen, filled fuel belt (potable water), clothes, socks, shoes, and a bag for after with dry clothes, band aids, advil, etc. Then off to bed.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Less than a Week Left
There is less than a week to go--just 6 days! No more duplicate days, just 1 Tuesday, 1 Wednesday, and so on. Sunday's run was only 8 miles. I also got my last sports massage and good wishes from The Sports Spa. Now, mostly just rest. No weight lifting, no cross training, nada. I think I will sqeeze in an abs class tomorrow, but I have been doing that all along and no more after tomorrow. It is just to help keep me from going crazy:) I have 4 miles tomorrow, 5 on Thursday, and two Saturday. Oh, and an ice bath as often as I can. Plus, NOTHING NEW--no new food, no new work out classes, and no new plans for the marathon strategy. Stick to the plan--now that is something I am good at:)
Speaking of plans, I have started packing. For me, this means lots of lists and items being piled on the spare bed. The pile will grow as items are added and checked off of the list. Glad we got a big car:) Here is a sample list of what to pack for a marathon away from home:
Packing List
Running Shoes
Socks (two pair of those tested during long runs)
Travel Itinerary
Prescription Medications
Emergency contact list (phone numbers and email addresses)
Medical Alert (if needed)
Medical Records (especially for international travel in either hardcopy or CD form)
Garmin Watch, charger, and heart rate monitor
Fuel belt
Singlet (this means racing tank top)
Shorts
Warm-Ups (Jacket and Long Pants)
Sports Bra
Gloves (there was frost advisory in Burlington tonight)
Hat
T-Shirt (Long and Short Sleeve)
Sweat Shirt
Tights
Rain Jacket
Body Glide and Vaseline
Workout Bag
Towel
Race Confirmation (to receive race number, if applicable)
Ibuprofen
Safety Pins
ID Tags (for you and your bag)
Toilet Paper
Sample Size Toiletries
Garbage bag (to use in cold or wet weather or to store those sweaty clothes)
Sunglasses
Sun-Block
Power Bars
Gel Energy Supplements (those for the race and extra) (I will need 6-7 for the race)
Snack/Pre-Race Items (e.g., Bagels, Muffins, Fruit, etc.)
Sports Drinks
Bottled Water (especially for the car)
Foam roller
blankie (yes, I want my own blanket and pillow the night before)
pillow
Let me know if I forgot anything!
Speaking of plans, I have started packing. For me, this means lots of lists and items being piled on the spare bed. The pile will grow as items are added and checked off of the list. Glad we got a big car:) Here is a sample list of what to pack for a marathon away from home:
Packing List
Running Shoes
Socks (two pair of those tested during long runs)
Travel Itinerary
Prescription Medications
Emergency contact list (phone numbers and email addresses)
Medical Alert (if needed)
Medical Records (especially for international travel in either hardcopy or CD form)
Garmin Watch, charger, and heart rate monitor
Fuel belt
Singlet (this means racing tank top)
Shorts
Warm-Ups (Jacket and Long Pants)
Sports Bra
Gloves (there was frost advisory in Burlington tonight)
Hat
T-Shirt (Long and Short Sleeve)
Sweat Shirt
Tights
Rain Jacket
Body Glide and Vaseline
Workout Bag
Towel
Race Confirmation (to receive race number, if applicable)
Ibuprofen
Safety Pins
ID Tags (for you and your bag)
Toilet Paper
Sample Size Toiletries
Garbage bag (to use in cold or wet weather or to store those sweaty clothes)
Sunglasses
Sun-Block
Power Bars
Gel Energy Supplements (those for the race and extra) (I will need 6-7 for the race)
Snack/Pre-Race Items (e.g., Bagels, Muffins, Fruit, etc.)
Sports Drinks
Bottled Water (especially for the car)
Foam roller
blankie (yes, I want my own blanket and pillow the night before)
pillow
Let me know if I forgot anything!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Now Single Digit Day Vows
And here we are. . .down to the single digit days before the Marathon on the 24th. Hard to imagine after signing up almost 6 months ago. I can't believe it. In nine days I hope to achieve a goal I never would have even set 2 years ago. I can remember what it felt like running along the brick in front of the Salem library the first time, a whopping mile from home, struggling to remain in a faster than walking motion for 20 minutes. Whew, and now, now I will remain in a steady motion for over 4 hours. Hard to imagine. Now, I even need to eat while running not just run so that I can eat. Now, I feel my heart elevate to a happy point rather than simply feel as if it might leap from my chest. Now, I feel muscles in my legs pushing me foward and faster rather than being self conscious about what others think of the girl breathing so hard. Now, I am thankful for the thickness of these legs because they are muscles and enable me. Now, after a long hard run I feel strong and powerful as well as tired. Now, on the days when I rest, hoping my body is healing itself in preparation, I feel antsy and eager. Now, I am ready, ready for whatever the day may bring.
I vow to enjoy this marathon. I vow to be ready for whatever might happen. I vow to declair a point where I will adjust my goals, slow down or comfortably charge on, listen to the crowd and let it motivate me, and be proud. I vow to be proud of where I have been and how far I have come. I vow to be thankful for all those who helped me get here--no matter how they helped. Whether through encouragement, running alongside me, questioning my sanity, questioning one's ability to run 26.2 miles, listening to me discuss terms like tempo and chaffing, or walking the dog so I can run--I am thankful. I thank those who ran in 8 degree weather or pouring rain, those who ran slower for me and those who pushed my pace. I mostly thank those who sacrificed any amount of time, energy, or sleep to help me reach these 4 hours of bliss. I even thank those who poured ice in the tub or who ate the ice out of the tub and gave me puppy kisses. Without you, I could not have made it this far and for you I vow to enjoy every second I am running my first marathon!
I vow to enjoy this marathon. I vow to be ready for whatever might happen. I vow to declair a point where I will adjust my goals, slow down or comfortably charge on, listen to the crowd and let it motivate me, and be proud. I vow to be proud of where I have been and how far I have come. I vow to be thankful for all those who helped me get here--no matter how they helped. Whether through encouragement, running alongside me, questioning my sanity, questioning one's ability to run 26.2 miles, listening to me discuss terms like tempo and chaffing, or walking the dog so I can run--I am thankful. I thank those who ran in 8 degree weather or pouring rain, those who ran slower for me and those who pushed my pace. I mostly thank those who sacrificed any amount of time, energy, or sleep to help me reach these 4 hours of bliss. I even thank those who poured ice in the tub or who ate the ice out of the tub and gave me puppy kisses. Without you, I could not have made it this far and for you I vow to enjoy every second I am running my first marathon!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Countdown Continues
The marathon countdown is in full swing. My last long run was over a week ago and the tapering has begun--last week I cut back to 80% of my highest mileage and this week cut back again running about 50% of my highest mileage. I'll log just 20 miles this week. On Mother's Day I logged 13.5 miles after a long walk with my favorite two and four legged men. My pup Otis woke me with kisses and then my husband treated me to a fabulous brunch at the Cheesecake Factory out on the patio. I had amazing french toast that helped motivate me towards that run:) The run went fabulously--each mile naturally got a little faster without me working too hard at it or thinking about it, I just chugged along. Unfortunately some new socks resulted in a bad blister that will require some gentle treatment in the next two weeks.
I also spent some time sewing. I "logged" about 6 hours at the sewing machine Saturday. Once again running and sewing met as I took in some running shirts from a couple of races and then took in some shirts from my chubbier days that I didn't get to last summer. Plus, I finally put together some pajama pants I cut out at Christmas time. They were perfect for Mother's Day weekend since they have paw prints all over them and match my "Rottweiler Mom" t-shirt!
More to come as I get closer and closer to the big day.
I also spent some time sewing. I "logged" about 6 hours at the sewing machine Saturday. Once again running and sewing met as I took in some running shirts from a couple of races and then took in some shirts from my chubbier days that I didn't get to last summer. Plus, I finally put together some pajama pants I cut out at Christmas time. They were perfect for Mother's Day weekend since they have paw prints all over them and match my "Rottweiler Mom" t-shirt!
More to come as I get closer and closer to the big day.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Last Looonnnngggg Training Run!
This morning was the full out marathon test--at least 22 miles of testing (84%). I got up almost when I need to get up for the marathon, ate a breakfast I plan to eat that am (cliff bar, banana, coffee), wore the exact clothes (even socks) I plan to run in, started running at the time the race will start (8:03 AM), and drank and ate what I plan to during the marathon.
I met friends in Carlisle, Massachusetts, about 40 minutes away. It is a great small town from what I could see--it had a very quiet and quaint New England feel, with tons of hilly and winding roads, the traditional looking New England center of town and lots of woods and farms. Farms with HUGE beautiful homes! Apparently Carlisle is know if its large homes and densely wooded areas--there appear to be a number of horse and hiking trails. A lot of people were mountain biking the trails and either running or biking the roads(See I am not the only crazy person!). It was really fun running in a new place and I hit the trails for the first two miles by myself enjoying the tranquility and scenery. I saw the most beautiful yellow bird I have ever seen on the trail--my Grandmas would have both loved it!
These photos give a better idea of what Carlisle looks like:
The horses at several local farms really made me smile--they swish their tails at you sometimes:)
We ran along the roads and hit a big hill right at about when we will hit it during the marathon--we all survived just fine:) I even tackled some rolling hills throughout the course at a decent speed and feel well prepared for the few that face us on race day.
Now--we just need similar weather for race day! It was a perfect low-60s temp with only a slight breeze and overcast! PERFECT!!! Who knew I would call that perfect--but for logging 22 miles--it was!
The marathon is now 3 weeks from today! I will start backing off mileage as a taper with next weeks long run at just 15. Who knew 2 years ago that I would ever say just 15 miles--but it is true!
I met friends in Carlisle, Massachusetts, about 40 minutes away. It is a great small town from what I could see--it had a very quiet and quaint New England feel, with tons of hilly and winding roads, the traditional looking New England center of town and lots of woods and farms. Farms with HUGE beautiful homes! Apparently Carlisle is know if its large homes and densely wooded areas--there appear to be a number of horse and hiking trails. A lot of people were mountain biking the trails and either running or biking the roads(See I am not the only crazy person!). It was really fun running in a new place and I hit the trails for the first two miles by myself enjoying the tranquility and scenery. I saw the most beautiful yellow bird I have ever seen on the trail--my Grandmas would have both loved it!
These photos give a better idea of what Carlisle looks like:
The horses at several local farms really made me smile--they swish their tails at you sometimes:)
We ran along the roads and hit a big hill right at about when we will hit it during the marathon--we all survived just fine:) I even tackled some rolling hills throughout the course at a decent speed and feel well prepared for the few that face us on race day.
Now--we just need similar weather for race day! It was a perfect low-60s temp with only a slight breeze and overcast! PERFECT!!! Who knew I would call that perfect--but for logging 22 miles--it was!
The marathon is now 3 weeks from today! I will start backing off mileage as a taper with next weeks long run at just 15. Who knew 2 years ago that I would ever say just 15 miles--but it is true!
Friday, May 1, 2009
99 Miles Til marathon day. . 99 Miles Til Marathon Day
Take one down, run it along, 98 miles til marathon day. . .
Whew, still sounds like a lot, but in the past 13 weeks of training I logged 350 miles, so what is 100 more? Plus, after this weekend the number will be reduced by 30 with only 68 miles left! Crazy what it all adds up to equal. Anyway, this week has been hard to get out the door, but once again I found help in my husband who ushered me out two days this week when I just wanted a nap. He even ran speedwork with me (which is hard!) logging a high mileage day for him and a lot of effort from us both.
The last looonnngggg run is this weekend--22 and is the final long test run before the big day. I plan on running with my marathon partner and hit some hills to really get the full effect in. We'll test clothes for chafing and fuel processes one last time to try and push that wall further and further out. The 15 and 8 the following weeks will hopefully feel like a breeze! I'll keep you posted as the countdown continues. . .
Whew, still sounds like a lot, but in the past 13 weeks of training I logged 350 miles, so what is 100 more? Plus, after this weekend the number will be reduced by 30 with only 68 miles left! Crazy what it all adds up to equal. Anyway, this week has been hard to get out the door, but once again I found help in my husband who ushered me out two days this week when I just wanted a nap. He even ran speedwork with me (which is hard!) logging a high mileage day for him and a lot of effort from us both.
The last looonnngggg run is this weekend--22 and is the final long test run before the big day. I plan on running with my marathon partner and hit some hills to really get the full effect in. We'll test clothes for chafing and fuel processes one last time to try and push that wall further and further out. The 15 and 8 the following weeks will hopefully feel like a breeze! I'll keep you posted as the countdown continues. . .
Sunday, April 26, 2009
A Month. . .A Month until the Marathon
I can't believe it, just 4 weeks from today is my big marathon debut. In celebration, this week was an EASY week. I found myself with pile of mending staring at me and yet, my body demanded the rest. I was good and listened--no mending for me--instead, I watched the Boston marathon video on my computer and went to bed early every night. Even had drinks with some girlfriends and a girls night out with my book club.
As for running, my weekly mileage cut back to half and my "long" run was a race today. My husband and I ran 5 miles easy together on Saturday and then I raced 5 today in Marblehead--a beautiful community (the sailboat capital of New England) right next to Salem. We ran around Marblehead neck which is a hilly island with a lot of beautiful multimillion dollar houses all around it with ocean views. The weather was HOT and the race was at the hottest part of the day today-2 pm. I did a half mile warm up, an understatement in mid 80 temps after weeks of mid 50 and under, and a half mile cool down. I ran into some friends from the running club I hadn't seen in a while due to different schedules and race training plans. Here is my friend John and I in the first mile (I am not too drenched with sweat yet. . . ).
The race verdict. . . besides that it was HOT, did I mention it was HOT? I finished a little slower than I would have liked, but managed to pull off a 7th place in my division (7th out of 47 women 20-29 years old) and 129th out of 440 runners.
Now I just have a hard week and my longest run yet this week (22 miles) and then begin to taper for the marathon!!! Here's for hoping for cooler weather Memorial Day weekend!
As for running, my weekly mileage cut back to half and my "long" run was a race today. My husband and I ran 5 miles easy together on Saturday and then I raced 5 today in Marblehead--a beautiful community (the sailboat capital of New England) right next to Salem. We ran around Marblehead neck which is a hilly island with a lot of beautiful multimillion dollar houses all around it with ocean views. The weather was HOT and the race was at the hottest part of the day today-2 pm. I did a half mile warm up, an understatement in mid 80 temps after weeks of mid 50 and under, and a half mile cool down. I ran into some friends from the running club I hadn't seen in a while due to different schedules and race training plans. Here is my friend John and I in the first mile (I am not too drenched with sweat yet. . . ).
The race verdict. . . besides that it was HOT, did I mention it was HOT? I finished a little slower than I would have liked, but managed to pull off a 7th place in my division (7th out of 47 women 20-29 years old) and 129th out of 440 runners.
Now I just have a hard week and my longest run yet this week (22 miles) and then begin to taper for the marathon!!! Here's for hoping for cooler weather Memorial Day weekend!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Volunteering for the Boston Marathon
The big day for so many runners came today--the Boston Marathon. While many friends and training buddies were running, I decided it was worth checking out from the volunteer side. . .
My marathon training partner and I ran 20 miles on Saturday in Boston along the Charles River--so nice--traveling from Boston, through Cambridge, and back around into Boston where we met our spouses and friend for brunch and a walk through the city.
It was a nice 53 degrees and this felt hot to us after training in single digits for so long. We had a great run, with the first 17-17.5 going great and the last 2.5 ish not feeling so hot. Apparently we both felt fine Sunday, so we attributed it to an increased calorie need throughout the run--more "gu" needed.
That said, we found ourselves "out in front" so to speak at the 17 mile PowerBar Gel station of the famous Boston Marathon today (Monday) volunteering with many of my Wicked Running Club friends. Decked out in our awesome bright yellow jackets and PowerBar t-shirts, we passed packets of a 110 caloric gel substance (some flavors are thick like icing and others more like thin jelly) to over 25,0000 runners in need of a pick me up. Yes, those are rubber gloves we are holding and for good reason--this stuff gets sticky!
We were able to watch the handicap division and the elites go by us at what looked like lighening speed (the photo below is the wheel chair winner). One guy ran on two polycarbonate "springy" legs and got the crowd roaring. We also watch two groups of military personnel walk the marathon with full gear and packs. I'd like to note that a woman led the second group:)
Then, the "hounds" were released and the remaining 24,900 runners came at a steady pace for about 2 hours. We were out at the beginning of numerous stations with gel in 6 different flavors for the runners and got a great look at the crowd. Some runners looked strong and steady (what we vow to look like in 5 weeks) and others were struggling. We yelled words of encouragement, provided gel, and screamed the names of anyone willing to write or print their names on themselves. We even saw some friends: my neighbor, a co-worker, and my beloved running club friends that I have trained and exchanged encouragement with throughout the winter. They looked so strong! We took notes on good form, ways to grab gel most successfully (make eye contact, point to the person you are headed towards, and reach out), and what to and not to wear.
The rest of this week is an easy week for me. I cut back to almost half my current miles (43 per week now) and am to get lots of rest. I have a 5 mile race on Sunday just for fun and as a reward for training. Then, next week is the last long and hard week before we start to cut back in preparation for our big day. I was inspired today by those running with amazing form and speed, but was also touched by the people I saw struggling. While I hope to look and feel stronger, these people pushed on and reminded me that my ultimate goal is to finish what I set out to do--run a marathon and smile--no matter how long it takes:)
My marathon training partner and I ran 20 miles on Saturday in Boston along the Charles River--so nice--traveling from Boston, through Cambridge, and back around into Boston where we met our spouses and friend for brunch and a walk through the city.
It was a nice 53 degrees and this felt hot to us after training in single digits for so long. We had a great run, with the first 17-17.5 going great and the last 2.5 ish not feeling so hot. Apparently we both felt fine Sunday, so we attributed it to an increased calorie need throughout the run--more "gu" needed. That said, we found ourselves "out in front" so to speak at the 17 mile PowerBar Gel station of the famous Boston Marathon today (Monday) volunteering with many of my Wicked Running Club friends. Decked out in our awesome bright yellow jackets and PowerBar t-shirts, we passed packets of a 110 caloric gel substance (some flavors are thick like icing and others more like thin jelly) to over 25,0000 runners in need of a pick me up. Yes, those are rubber gloves we are holding and for good reason--this stuff gets sticky!
We were able to watch the handicap division and the elites go by us at what looked like lighening speed (the photo below is the wheel chair winner). One guy ran on two polycarbonate "springy" legs and got the crowd roaring. We also watch two groups of military personnel walk the marathon with full gear and packs. I'd like to note that a woman led the second group:)
Then, the "hounds" were released and the remaining 24,900 runners came at a steady pace for about 2 hours. We were out at the beginning of numerous stations with gel in 6 different flavors for the runners and got a great look at the crowd. Some runners looked strong and steady (what we vow to look like in 5 weeks) and others were struggling. We yelled words of encouragement, provided gel, and screamed the names of anyone willing to write or print their names on themselves. We even saw some friends: my neighbor, a co-worker, and my beloved running club friends that I have trained and exchanged encouragement with throughout the winter. They looked so strong! We took notes on good form, ways to grab gel most successfully (make eye contact, point to the person you are headed towards, and reach out), and what to and not to wear.
The rest of this week is an easy week for me. I cut back to almost half my current miles (43 per week now) and am to get lots of rest. I have a 5 mile race on Sunday just for fun and as a reward for training. Then, next week is the last long and hard week before we start to cut back in preparation for our big day. I was inspired today by those running with amazing form and speed, but was also touched by the people I saw struggling. While I hope to look and feel stronger, these people pushed on and reminded me that my ultimate goal is to finish what I set out to do--run a marathon and smile--no matter how long it takes:)
Monday, April 13, 2009
6 Weeks to Go
With 1 week until the famed Boston marathon--Boston is now marathon city and those people I know running the race are all a buzz. I on the other hand have 6 weeks of training left until my big day. The good news is this means only 3 more "long runs" of over 14 miles.
I recovered from the 20 mile race and was back at it this past week logging 43 miles with 18 on Easter Sunday. Speedwork and tempo runs were great this week, but that 18-miler may have been one of my hardest runs yet--even harder than the 20 mile race! It felt like winter in Boston again with cold temperatures and a nasty wind that literally moved me sideways on multiple occasions (up to 40 mph, which is slightly faster than me).
For the 18 mile long run, I was out by myself for the first time in a while, as many of my "long run" pals are resting up for Boston or out running races. However, I was not alone when it counted. . . my husband agreed to run with me for the last 4 miles and man did I end up needing it. I was supposed to pick up the pace on these last 4 miles to get used to pushing harder well into a long race. I can say my body didn't feel like I had much left to give--my legs were screaming, my feet were burning, the gu (yes it is literally gu) I was eating tasted icky and was hard to swallow . . . and then I heard "you are okay, you can do this, and most importantly "I am proud of you." Off go the feet again. With still a lot of effort on my part, my husband pushed me and most importantly pulled me mentally and physically along those last 4 miles at a slightly faster pace than even needed (I managed to average 9:39 for the 18). We even hit a hill on the way back home for good measure (there is a hill at mile 16 and rolling hills from 16-20 in the marathon).
While my last post was about the split push of those who try to discourage you and those who chear you on--this long run proved the importance of the support team. Had I not been counting on joining my husband at mile 14, it would have been so much harder to push through the miles and I might not have made it--14 really does sound less daunting doesn't it. I'd like to think I would have pushed myself, but am glad I didn't have to find out.
Of course, support doesn't end after the run. Instead, for me it continued up the stairs (yes, I physically needed helping getting up both flights), prepped my ice bath (and my special magical heat sensitve CSI cup with hot tea) and sat by my side through the ice "treatment," and then wrapped me in blankets and rubbed my legs.
A true support that knows you knows when to just let you do your thing and then knows when you need the push or the pull to get you to your goal!
Yes, those are ice cubes in the tub! Yes, that is Otis waiting to eat the ice. And yes, that is chocolate milk in the background--it does a body good!
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I recovered from the 20 mile race and was back at it this past week logging 43 miles with 18 on Easter Sunday. Speedwork and tempo runs were great this week, but that 18-miler may have been one of my hardest runs yet--even harder than the 20 mile race! It felt like winter in Boston again with cold temperatures and a nasty wind that literally moved me sideways on multiple occasions (up to 40 mph, which is slightly faster than me).
For the 18 mile long run, I was out by myself for the first time in a while, as many of my "long run" pals are resting up for Boston or out running races. However, I was not alone when it counted. . . my husband agreed to run with me for the last 4 miles and man did I end up needing it. I was supposed to pick up the pace on these last 4 miles to get used to pushing harder well into a long race. I can say my body didn't feel like I had much left to give--my legs were screaming, my feet were burning, the gu (yes it is literally gu) I was eating tasted icky and was hard to swallow . . . and then I heard "you are okay, you can do this, and most importantly "I am proud of you." Off go the feet again. With still a lot of effort on my part, my husband pushed me and most importantly pulled me mentally and physically along those last 4 miles at a slightly faster pace than even needed (I managed to average 9:39 for the 18). We even hit a hill on the way back home for good measure (there is a hill at mile 16 and rolling hills from 16-20 in the marathon).
While my last post was about the split push of those who try to discourage you and those who chear you on--this long run proved the importance of the support team. Had I not been counting on joining my husband at mile 14, it would have been so much harder to push through the miles and I might not have made it--14 really does sound less daunting doesn't it. I'd like to think I would have pushed myself, but am glad I didn't have to find out.
Of course, support doesn't end after the run. Instead, for me it continued up the stairs (yes, I physically needed helping getting up both flights), prepped my ice bath (and my special magical heat sensitve CSI cup with hot tea) and sat by my side through the ice "treatment," and then wrapped me in blankets and rubbed my legs.
A true support that knows you knows when to just let you do your thing and then knows when you need the push or the pull to get you to your goal!
Yes, those are ice cubes in the tub! Yes, that is Otis waiting to eat the ice. And yes, that is chocolate milk in the background--it does a body good!
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