A Running Stitch

Can't Have It Both Ways

2010-02-05T22:01:00.003-05:00

The rest of the country is apparently getting hammered with snow and there is nada on the ground in New England. Snow shoe races are being canceled or being run as cross country races instead. I don't think we have had a inch or more of covering since early January. We have had some flurries so at least that is nice, it makes me smile whenever it comes down and the last time I was running along the Charles when it came down and it was so beautiful! I loved running on the path with the flakes falling and it covering everything in a pretty light white coating. They even plow the Charles River running path! They didn't bring out plows for the streets but this nice man was in his mini snow plow tractor thing and driving it along the path. Yet, the lack of snow and rain, lets face it the rain is worse, has led to some great running conditions. Today's run was perfect. It was about 20 degrees with the sun and was wonderful.

Testing the Temperatures

2010-01-31T12:07:00.000-05:00

On Friday, I posted on Facebook a tempt to the weather gods. I asked if that was the best winter could do with temps in the single digits and trains canceled and delayed making getting to the running path near work more difficult, but not impossible. Single digits didn't keep me from getting my run on, even if it did take me a while to unthaw.

On Saturday, we met as a group for our first Spring Training long run with my Coach. It was a whopping 5 degrees with a wind chill of -16 and of course, we ran along the water making it even colder and windier. Needless to say, I went out prepared for my 105 minutes in the winter oasis. I dressed in my fabulous Icebreaker long underware (often used for skiing), my thickest running tights, a compression shirt, my base layer wicking shirt to help pull the sweat off and keep me dry, my magic running shirt that keeps sweat from feeling cold as it saturates your clothes, wool socks, my neck warmer, a ski cap, and my ski gloves even. I stayed pretty warm except for the little bit of my cheeks that were exposed to the wind and really enjoyed a great run with a friend. Plus, you feel pretty rocking kick ass when running in these elements!

Sometimes we Run in Circles--Literally

2010-01-20T18:00:00.000-05:00

So the streets are not safe in my opinion to run on, let alone do speed work on. In an attempt to avoid another run on what I call the dreadmill (treadmill) I headed over to a nearby YMCA which has an indoor track for my speed work. Now, I had not been to this YMCA before, but the Y changed their policies and you can go to any YMCA now and this one is just 10 minutes from my house and I thought a track sounded much better. There I go thinking again!! Next time, a little more thinking may be in order as it took 19 laps around the crowded track to make a mile and I had to do almost 7 miles with speed work and all the dreadmills were full so no other option but to run in circles--a lot of circles. Further, the "crowd" on the track was mostly walkers and kids, which is fine. . . except, the walkers were bad drivers constantly wandering from the walking lane into the middle of the running lane and the kids, well the kids were everywhere like bad gnats in the summertime. I needed to do 24 x 200 meters at under 5K pace (53 seconds was my best time). I managed to survive, and also managed to not kill any child or adult by trampling them, which I imagine is a bad way to go. In just over an hour of running I completed 132 laps around this darn circular nemesis and covered a total of 7 miles. Speedwork sometimes leaves me a little queasy, but I think the circles added to the icky feeling in my belly. On the way home I stopped to vote (duty calls) and was exhausted and too worn out to eat when I got home, but forced a pb and banana sandwich with honey down my throat (of course Otis helped) and then had to play some tug of war before going to bed.

Sewing is Back

2010-01-18T21:31:00.003-05:00

All it takes is a snowy/icy Monday off for Martin Luther King Day to cancel my plans and create the unexpected opportunity to catch up on my sewing pile. You can't get to the fun projects when a pile of alterations and mending is in the way. So, today, I hemmed two pair of jeans and a pair of track pants. While hemming is usually relatively quick, I was extra extra careful and used the rule measure 5 times cut once since one of the pairs of jeans were my new favorites and I didn't want to mess them up. I even ripped the hem out once and re-did it when it didn't look smooth enough. I also took in a very cute white fleecy vest I got for Christmas from a friend and then proceeded to wear it the rest of the day--it is the perfect laying piece for days like today. Finally, I attacked another race shirt removing 3 inches out of each side, 3 inches off the bottom, and 4 inches off the sleeves (which I swear hung down to my knees). If the race wasn't one of my favorites and the t-shirt really nice, I wouldn't bother. It still doesn't fit perfectly, it is hard to take up the armpit area too, but it sure is better and is no longer a nightshirt or a shirt that I give to my husband (he has a really nice running shirt from one of my other favorite races from the fall already).

Hopefully, now that those mending items are out of the way I can finally get to some fun projects!!

When All Else Fails, Mix It Up

2010-01-16T20:58:00.005-05:00

So between some big changes in my personal life for the past month and next 5, as well as the sun only shining from 7AM - 4 PM in New England, my training needed tweeked. Last winter, I ran a lot of my runs during my lunch hour. This winter, my runs are longer and it is harder to ensure that I get out the door at lunch because work is much busier. So. . . I, yes non-morning person MJ, get up at 5:30, throw on my running clothes, walk the dog, grab some breakfast, and leave the house at 6:15 to take the train into the office. I toss my work clothes (yes, I triple check the night before that I have all items needed for appropriate work attire in my gym bag) into a locker, and hit the road for a morning run. I have done many of these runs along the Charles River in Boston as the sun is coming up over the ice and snow covered water. It is one of the most beautiful sights and there are numerous runners out enjoying the beauty. I usually run between 40-60 minutes and find myself almost meditating in the peacefulness of my run before work and before anything else can really get in the way. This time along the water is mine. Mine to think about these 6 months of independence, the day ahead, and even to simply forget about everything except the way my feet feel on the path and how my warm breath slices through the cold air. I never in my life thought I would move to Boston, become a runner, or become a morning person. But these three things have come together to make me happy and healthy!

P.S. Here is another photo from the snowshoe race. I am the third one in the powder blue jacket (my favorite running item ever!).

SnowShoe Race

2010-01-10T09:17:00.003-05:00

I ran my first snowshoe race, yup race, on January 9th. I had a blast and even got a friend and her husband to tag along for the fun--note that while an advid trail runner and snowshoer, she had not raced in snowshoes and she took home second overall woman. I did well and came in twelth overall for the women and 2nd in my age group! Woohoo.

See the article below from a website where race standings are posted for the proof (I bolded my name) and even a photo of the race start that ran with the subsequent article. Note: You may recognize a blue jacketed woman tossing up some powder. . .

Find this page online at www.coolrunning.com/results/10/ma/Jan9_OldeSa_set1.shtml

Olde Salem Greens Snowshoe Classic
Salem, MA, January 9, 2010

Photo by Bill Woolley

Snowshoe racing's popularity continues to explode in New England --- witness the 191 finishers (and 214 entrants) at the first Olde Salem Greens Snowshoe Classic --- the 2nd largest snowshoe race ever in the Northeast United States. The team from Salem Recreation Department and Dungeon Rock Racing put on a first class event; something that snowshoers are used to from it's New hampshire rebirth under acidotic RACING's Granite State Snowshoe Series. Ben Newphew led one of the strongest fields in Eastern Mass/New Hampshire snowshoeing history by pulling away from acidotic RACING's Geiff Cunningham and Charles Therriault for a 22:41 - 23:27 - 24:12 win. Gail Gordon of the host Dungeon Rock Racing took the women's title in 32:33. Renee Bousquet and Sarah Phillips took 2nd and 3rd respectively.
acidotic RACING's 70 year old Gary Reuter traveled down from Maine to win the 60+ title in 36:37 - quite probably the top performance of the day --- well except for the team putting on the race. Next up on the Eastern Mass/New Hampshire snowshoe racing scene is the 'challenging' Feel Good Farm 8K in Lyndeborough, NH on January 16. Feel Good Farm features 4 trips up and down Moose Mountain --- enough to satisfy the toughest snowshoer. Rumor has it there will be 40 pounds of hot Portuguese Kale Soup awaiting the snowshoers at the finish line.
Nighttime snowshoe training runs are also on the calendar at Horse Hill Nature Preserve in Merrimack, NH on select Tuesday and Thursday nights. For more info go to http://www.moosemilers.com/.
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Place Time Points Name Team Age Sex Bib City St

1 22:41 100.00 Ben Nephew CMS POLAR BEARS 34 M 163 Mansfield MA
2 23:27 96.68 Geoff Cunningham ACIDOTIC RACING 32 M 140 Meredith NH
3 24:12 93.69 Charles Therriault ACIDOTIC RACING 24 M 164 Newmarket NH
4 24:36 92.19 Dan Verrington CMS POLAR BEARS 47 M 80 Bradford MA
5 24:57 90.86 Chris Dunn ACIDOTIC RACING 41 M 88 Strafford NH
6 25:49 87.82 Reeder Fahnestock ACIDOTIC RACING 30 M 185 Exeter NH
7 25:52 87.70 James Pawlicki CMS POLAR BEARS 35 M 153 Beverly MA
8 26:17 86.26 Christopher Smith DUNGEON ROCK RACING 43 M 107 Woburn MA
9 26:32 85.45 David Loutzenheiser 43 M 823 Cambridge MA
10 26:47 84.68 Jeremiah Fitzgibbon ACIDOTIC RACING 53 M 173 Bedford NH
11 26:55 84.24 David Starbuck 27 M 133 Wenham MA
12 26:58 84.12 Richard Lavers ACIDOTIC RACING 33 M 130 Concord NH
13 27:04 83.78 Rob Bousquet 43 M 135 Waltham MA
14 27:12 83.38 Aj Migonis 31 M 177 Magnolia MA
15 27:31 82.39 Luke Fernandez THURSDAY NIGHT THUNDER 23 M 183 Kennebunkport ME
16 27:32 82.36 Tim Short WICKED RUNNING CLUB 29 M 111 Burlington MA
17 27:44 81.78 Sam Wallis TEAM PEACHY PEACH 18 M 105 Allson MA
18 27:52 81.36 Brian Staveley TEAM PEACHY PEACH 33 M 158 Boston MA
19 28:06 80.69 Phil Erwin BLAZING TURTLES 42 M 103 New Durham NH
20 28:14 80.32 Jay Myers ACIDOTIC RACING 39 M 188 Dover NH
21 28:18 80.15 Scott Jason 33 M 189 Lynn MA
22 28:22 79.93 Austin Stonebraker ACIDOTIC RACING 30 M 186 Durham NH
23 28:32 79.46 Jonathan Ring 31 M 115 Westford MA
24 28:49 78.71 Jay Curry DUNGEON ROCK RACING 38 M 2 Lynn MA
25 28:59 78.26 Patrick Smith DUNGEON ROCK RACING 47 M 49 Salem MA
26 29:08 77.83 Matt Garceau DUNGEON ROCK RACING 38 M 181 Salem NH
27 29:17 77.43 Scott Graham ACIDOTIC RACING 51 M 131 Westford MA
28 29:23 77.19 Chris Field 27 M 57 Salem MA
29 29:31 76.85 Daren Fiske 29 M 125 Woburn MA
30 29:46 76.16 Frank Pearson 23 M 194 Westerly RI
31 30:20 74.75 Peter Malinowski 55 M 138 Beverly MA
32 30:28 74.44 Aaron Toleos WICKED RUNNING CLUB 38 M 106 Boxford MA
33 30:37 74.05 Sal Genovese DUNGEON ROCK RACING 44 M 184 Marblehead MA
34 30:38 74.01 Richard Tomlins WICKED RUNNING CLUB 44 M 67 Swampscott MA
35 30:41 73.92 Miles Grimshaw TEAM PEACHY PEACH 18 M 128 Cambridge MA
36 30:42 73.84 Robert Wanamaker MERRIMACK VALLEY STRIDERS 51 M 114 Eliot MA
37 31:12 72.66 Ed Mulrey GILLIES AC 50 M 129 Boxford MA
38 31:17 72.49 Dan Cooper DUNGEON ROCK RACING 37 M 92 Salem MA
39 31:22 72.31 John McCormack 37 M 150 Lynn MA
40 31:25 72.19 Richie Blake ACIDOTIC RACING 41 M 193 Tyngsborough MA
41 31:55 71.05 Brian O'Hara 52 M 42 Danvers MA
42 32:15 70.32 Doug Smith 45 M 9 Salem MA
43 32:33 69.67 Gail Gordon DUNGEON ROCK RACING 38 F 18 Lynn MA
44 32:34 69.64 Glenn Meister 47 M 187 Wellesley MA
45 32:56 68.84 Bill Morse DUNGEON ROCK RACING 58 M 112 Dracut MA
46 33:07 68.47 Bruce Campbell DUNGEON ROCK RACING 52 M 180 Peabody MA
47 33:10 68.38 Christopher Cuozzo 27 M 99 Woburn MA
48 33:15 68.20 Renee Bousquet 34 F 136 Waltham MA
49 33:23 67.93 Tom Hancock 46 M 161 Belmont MA
50 33:37 67.46 David Homan 30 M 86 Salem MA
51 33:44 67.22 Colin Maclay WICKED RUNNING CLUB 41 M 108 Salem MA
52 33:45 67.20 Mike Toomey WICKED RUNNING CLUB 37 M 151 Marblehead MA
53 33:54 66.88 Fernando Tomaz 50 M 96 Haverhill MA
54 34:11 66.34 Daniel Barrett DUNGEON ROCK RACING 47 M 17 Lynn MA
55 34:25 65.88 Stephen Martin SHAMROCK RUNNING CLUB 44 M 192 Lynn MA
56 34:56 64.92 Kyle Grady 29 M 199 Somerville MA
57 35:01 64.77 Sarah Phillips 26 F 119 Cambridge MA
58 35:14 64.36 Eric Finney DUNGEON ROCK RACING 39 M 137 Salem MA
59 35:30 63.86 Richard Kelly FUEL BELT 48 M 149 Walpole MA
60 35:50 63.29 Rachel Hunt WICKED RUNNING CLUB 36 F 109 Salem MA
61 35:59 63.01 Rob Stewart BLAZING TURTLES 29 M 143 Dover NH
62 36:21 62.39 Jessica Mulligan TEAM PEACHY PEACH 17 F 97 Cambridge MA
63 36:27 62.21 Timothy Lindsey ACIDOTIC RACING 38 M 15 Strafford NH
64 36:32 62.07 Christopher Sammartano 53 M 171 Ipswich MA
65 36:37 61.93 Gary Reuter ACIDOTIC RACING 70 M 126 Kittery ME
66 36:49 61.58 Tara Crowley 38 F 826 Salem MA
67 36:50 61.57 Jamie Crowley 41 M 825 Salem MA
68 36:52 61.50 Shelby Erwin BLAZING TURTLES 14 F 104 New Durham NH
69 37:06 61.12 Kevin Dennehy 44 M 28 Swawmpscott MA
70 37:27 60.55 Liz McCormack TEAM PEACHY PEACH 16 F 118 Boston MA
71 37:43 60.12 Art Gray DUNGEON ROCK RACING 56 M 101 Winthrop MA
72 37:44 60.10 Sara Field 26 F 58 Salem MA
73 38:04 59.57 Paul Copeland DUNGEON ROCK RACING 46 M 141 Winthrop MA
74 38:35 58.77 Erin Bennett COMPREHENSIVE RACING 39 F 197 Salem MA
75 38:55 58.28 Denise Dion WESTERN MASS AC 51 F 156 Readsboro VT
76 39:00 58.14 Melissa Jaynes WICKED RUNNING CLUB 29 F 77 Salem MA
77 39:02 58.08 Margaret Banker 36 F 110 Beverly MA
78 39:18 57.69 Paul Hennessey 60 M 824 Salem MA
79 39:24 57.55 Paul Croft 49 M 121 Swampscott MA
80 39:50 56.92 Angela Zukowski 26 F 1 West Springfield MA
81 39:52 56.88 Kathryn Jinks 21 F 159 Salem MA
82 39:55 56.80 Scott Briggs 28 M 38 Holden MA
83 40:20 56.22 Mackenzie Dowdy 24 F 94 Dover NH
84 40:24 56.12 Bill Mullen DUNGEON ROCK RACING 61 M 90 Peabody MA
85 40:27 56.07 Patrick Jinks 49 M 160 Salem MA
86 40:28 56.03 Timothy Bourassa SHAMROCK RUNNING CLUB 39 M 32 Woburn MA
87 40:29 56.01 Sharon Barbano 56 F 191 Salem MA
88 40:30 55.98 Erik Showers 30 M 170 Salem MA
89 40:31 55.96 Tara Starbuck 28 F 134 Wenham MA
90 40:32 55.94 Chris Anderson WICKED RUNNING CLUB 41 M 27 Salem MA
91 40:33 55.92 Rozanne Puleo COMPREHENSIVE RACING 35 F 144 Somerville MA
92 40:35 55.88 Michael Amarello ACIDOTIC RACING 46 M 100 Merrimack NH
93 40:37 55.82 Anne Noga TEAM LUNA CHIP 49 F 122 Salem MA
94 40:41 55.74 Stephanie Cooper DUNGEON ROCK RACING 38 F 93 Salem MA
95 40:42 55.71 Michael St. Hilaire GREATER DERRY TRACK CLUB 31 M 45 Salem NH
96 40:44 55.67 John Russell 56 M 59 Salem MA
97 40:49 55.55 Sandra Purington 46 F 66 Ipswich MA
98 40:55 55.41 Rich Lewis DUNGEON ROCK RACING 52 M 132 Lynn MA
99 41:00 55.30 Stephen Dragoni RED NOSE CLOWN 39 M 62 Boston MA
100 41:38 54.47 Liam Brady 53 M 827 Salem MA
101 41:47 54.26 Christen Johnsen DUNGEON ROCK RACING 39 F 152 Bedford NH
102 41:53 54.14 Larry Ducady 33 M 117 North Providence RI
103 41:55 54.10 Stu Greeley DUNGEON ROCK RACING 56 M 148 Lynn MA
104 42:02 53.95 Jen Migonis 28 F 176 Magnolia MA
105 42:02 53.94 Brad Clark BLAZING TURTLES 32 M 178 Berwick ME
106 42:26 53.44 Miriam Wilcox 27 F 73 Candia NH
107 42:31 53.32 Stephen McAvoy 58 M 157 Everett MA
108 42:41 53.12 Bethany Radabaugh 34 F 89 Swampscott MA
109 42:56 52.82 Nicole Manseau 37 F 5 Malden MA
110 43:22 52.28 Scott Winder 49 M 120 Salem MA
111 43:52 51.69 Devon Carroll BLAZING TURTLES 20 F 139 Dover NH
112 43:53 51.67 Jeanne Peckiconis THURSDAY NIGHT THUNDER 48 F 182 Kennebunk ME
113 44:01 51.51 Matthew Kochesa 39 M 166 Salem MA
114 44:27 51.01 Elizabeth Gray BLAZING TURTLES 20 F 142 Newmarket NH
115 44:40 50.76 Shawn Patti 42 M 124 Newbury MA
116 44:49 50.59 James Brock 28 M 22 Boston MA
117 44:59 50.40 Deanne Hobba 42 F 190 Salem MA
118 45:02 50.35 Cindy Bennett DEAD HORSE BEACH AC 51 F 175 Marblehead MA
119 45:03 50.34 Mark Keaney 52 M 162 Lynn MA
120 45:26 49.90 Les Davis 43 M 95 Haverhill MA
121 47:16 47.97 Bart McCarthy 37 M 169 Beverly MA
122 47:40 47.57 Nick Lake 25 M 830 Brighton MA
123 47:50 47.40 Jennifer Bauna 34 F 828 Cambridge MA
124 48:07 47.12 Beth O'Grady 49 F 46 Salem MA
125 48:16 46.97 Allison Rourke DUNGEON ROCK RACING 34 F 31 Salem MA
126 48:19 46.94 Denise Murphy DUNGEON ROCK RACING 45 F 48 Salem MA
127 48:19 46.92 Megg Briggs 28 F 37 Holden MA
128 48:20 46.92 Kristie Loftus 31 F 820 Charlestown MA
129 48:23 46.86 Christopher Wellington 27 M 6 Manchester NH
130 48:33 46.70 Travis Knapp 33 M 819 Charlestown MA
131 49:12 46.09 Patricia Curley 46 F 24 Beverly MA
132 49:35 45.73 Suzanne Camyre 33 F 79 Beverly MA
133 49:38 45.69 William Hekking 35 M 78 Salem MA
134 49:40 45.66 Todd Bollen 55 M 26 Lynn MA
135 49:43 45.61 John Harrigan 48 M 179 Beverly MA
136 49:46 45.56 Deb Jackson DEAD HORSE BEACH AC 59 F 35 Salem MA
137 49:49 45.51 Steve Bennett DEAD HORSE BEACH AC 54 M 174 Marblehead MA
138 49:52 45.46 Jenn Merlan 39 F 168 Pembroke MA
139 49:55 45.43 Kathey Moskal DUNGEON ROCK RACING 39 F 52 Danvers MA
140 49:56 45.41 Kim McCarthy 40 F 69 Pembroke MA
141 49:57 45.39 Michael Head 27 M 4 Somerville MA
142 50:08 45.23 Joanne Lachapelle CMS POLAR BEARS 55 F 63 Worcester MA
143 50:09 45.21 Maureen Farren WINNERS CIRCLE RC 61 F 23 Amesbury MA
144 50:10 45.20 Meg Michaels MYSTIC RUNNERS 54 F 29 Wakefield MA
145 50:11 45.18 Colleen Coburn 23 F 68 South Boston MA
146 50:13 45.16 Angel Green 00 F 165 Lynn MA
147 50:16 45.10 Jennifer Smith 34 F 10 Salem MA
148 50:18 45.07 Jaimie Vanmassenhove 28 F 54 Lee NH
149 50:20 45.05 Theresa Murphy 25 F 72 Newton MA
150 50:21 45.03 Ellen Murphy 29 F 71 Brookline MA
151 50:22 45.02 Katrina Bernstein MOST INFORMAL RUNNING CLUB 29 F 36 Somerville MA
152 50:23 45.00 Kelley Kugel 27 F 64 Somerville MA
153 50:24 44.99 Sarah Lomonaco 28 F 25 Mansfield CT
154 50:33 44.85 Barbara Brash 37 F 167 Pembroke MA
155 50:34 44.83 Bonnie Hallinan DEAD HORSE BEACH AC 60 F 172 Danvers MA
156 50:49 44.61 Jim Logan DEAD HORSE BEACH AC 62 M 34 Salem MA
157 51:02 44.43 Karen Vitone DEAD HORSE BEACH AC 43 F 74 Salem MA
158 51:49 43.75 Howard Jones 56 M 822 West Springfield MA
159 52:11 43.45 Aubrey Gray DUNGEON ROCK RACING 23 F 102 Winthrop MA
160 52:26 43.25 Terrence Cullinane 40 M 47 Winthrop MA
161 53:51 42.10 Erin Coffey 27 F 60 Waltham MA
162 53:52 42.09 Rebecca Zaffini 28 F 3 Somerville MA
163 54:24 41.68 John Pierga 46 M 51 Danvers MA
164 55:47 40.65 Melissa Bourassa SHAMROCK RUNNING CLUB 42 F 33 Woburn MA
165 55:51 40.60 Josh White TEAM WHITE 17 M 145 Salem MA
166 55:56 40.54 Laurie Fontaine WICKED RUNNING CLUB 47 F 123 Peabody MA
167 56:01 40.48 Lanna Grady 34 F 198 Somerville MA
168 56:22 40.22 Kelly Dunn 25 F 829 Salem MA
169 56:23 40.21 Aimee Lake 26 F 195 Gloucester MA
170 56:28 40.15 Darla Johnson WICKED RUNNING CLUB 47 F 11 Beverly MA
171 57:04 39.73 Sam White TEAM WHITE 15 M 146 Salem MA
172 57:07 39.70 Joel White TEAM WHITE 48 M 147 Salem MA
173 57:53 39.17 Rachel Rawlinson 32 F 50 Dover NH
174 57:55 39.15 Marion Haber 32 F 87 Newburyport MA
175 58:25 38.81 David Burgess 38 M 818 Plymouth MA
176 58:29 38.77 Marissa Burgess 31 F 200 Plymouth MA
177 59:30 38.11 Kristen Kozlosky NORTH SHORE STRIDERS 35 F 154 Beverly MA
178 1:02:32 36.26 Courtney-Jea Carver Br 25 F 43 Salem MA
179 1:06:21 34.17 Amy Wood 31 F 44 Salem MA
180 1:07:05 33.80 Jill Horgan 23 F 91 Kittery ME
181 1:07:09 33.76 Donna Greenberg 52 F 113 Beverly MA
182 1:07:13 33.73 Debbie Shahidi WICKED RUNNING CLUB 48 F 196 Beverly MA
183 1:07:22 33.66 Sarah Nelson 23 F 30 Marblehead MA
184 1:07:49 33.43 Ariane Purdy 34 F 61 Swampscott MA
185 1:07:51 33.42 Kim Knowlton 34 F 831 Wakefield MA
186 1:09:16 32.73 Carol Grigas 67 F 82 Worcester MA
187 1:09:18 32.72 Dan Girard 42 M 55 Dudley MA
188 1:09:32 32.61 Jeanne Vural 45 F 84 Salem MA
189 1:20:48 28.06 Shelby Soloft 30 F 821 Jamaica Plains MA
190 1:20:53 28.03 Tricia Pini 40 F 85 Salem MA
191 1:21:11 27.93 Judy Leshinski 58 F 116 Londonderry NH
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Snowshoe Wonderland

2010-01-03T14:54:00.007-05:00

The area of Lynn woods (rumored as one of the largest parks within one municipality at 22,000 acres or something) proved a winter wonderland once again. Snowshoes on, I ventured out with a pretty decently sized group and met some new people. We ran through wide areas and single track areas that were much more difficult to navigate--all proving photo worthy and worth the work to get there. I saw places of the woods I have not seen before, but have heard my friends talk about--Stone Tower and Dungeon Rock (the rock shaped like a skull--look at the as a profile and you'll see it). Dungeon rock is not called skull rock because there is literally a dungeon in it (see the little door) and there is rumored treasure buried in the dungeon. Yes, we did stop for a history lesson and it was great!

I also ran by a few places, like this frozen lake, where I literally had to just stop and pull out my camera!

First Long Run of 2010

2010-01-02T14:43:00.001-05:00

January 2nd brought the snowstorm the running club was glad did not occur on Jan 1 and welcomed me back to long runs. I am running Burlington again for my third marathon to reach 3 before I am 30! Just over twenty weeks till marathon day! I ventured out with a friend and ran from Salem into Marblehead. Due to the slush we were working through and the wind we abandoned our plan to run Marblehead neck (an island) and ran through the streets of Marblehead ultimately getting lost (though we can always turn around with my GPS watch so you're never really lost). We were a little short on distance, but made it up in hard work and hills. Regardless we found ourselves a new favorite running route and a beautiful winter wonderland that made all the hamstring and quad burning worth the while.

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T15:26:00.000-05:00

Today was the 3rd annual Frosty Four race in Salem put on by the excellent Wicked Running Club! It was a great way to start the new year. I volunteered at the race by helping people know where to turn about a quarter mile from the finish. After the race was over and all cleared out, the Wicked Runners who also registered for the race ran the course as a group. It was a lot of fun and reminded why I love the club! So supportive and such a great group of people. We even formed two lines and cheered on runners as they came down Front street. Then, I went home and rested with my runny nose.

2009 In Review

2009-12-31T23:39:00.003-05:00

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!

A New Way to Run

2009-12-20T22:17:00.005-05:00

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.

Indianapolis Marathan Proves Monumental

2009-12-10T22:38:00.000-05:00

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.

Reflection on Support

2009-11-20T11:24:00.002-05:00

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:)

Made the News

2009-11-17T13:12:00.007-05:00

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:)

A Wild and Wet Ride

2009-10-21T22:15:00.013-04:00

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).

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

2009-10-21T20:19:00.006-04:00

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.

More than Half-Way To Marathon #2

2009-09-26T16:29:00.005-04:00

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!

The Marathon Bug Bit--#2 here I come!

2009-07-25T13:08:00.005-04:00

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.

Back on the Blog

2009-07-25T12:53:00.020-04:00

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.

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.

Sewing and Running

2009-06-01T21:58:00.004-04:00

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:)

There Goes Another One

2009-06-01T20:39:00.003-04:00

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

2009-06-01T09:16:00.002-04:00

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!

Official Marathon Photos Available Online

2009-05-31T19:12:00.002-04:00

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

Marathon Memoir Part 3--After the Marathon

2009-05-27T20:48:00.007-04:00

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.

Marathon Memoir Part 2--The Race

2009-05-27T19:52:00.011-04:00

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!

Marathon Memoir Part 1

2009-05-27T19:47:00.002-04:00

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.

Less than a Week Left

2009-05-18T20:59:00.002-04:00

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!

Now Single Digit Day Vows

2009-05-14T22:09:00.005-04:00

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!

Countdown Continues

2009-05-12T20:51:00.003-04:00

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.

Last Looonnnngggg Training Run!

2009-05-03T17:50:00.007-04:00

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!

99 Miles Til marathon day. . 99 Miles Til Marathon Day

2009-05-01T17:06:00.002-04:00

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. . .

A Month. . .A Month until the Marathon

2009-04-26T22:07:00.004-04:00

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!

Volunteering for the Boston Marathon

2009-04-20T18:04:00.011-04:00

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:)

6 Weeks to Go

2009-04-13T16:49:00.011-04:00

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!

Running Split

2009-04-08T23:36:00.002-04:00

In running, splits often refer to divisions of a run. Runners often aim to run the second half of a work or race in the negative, meaning the second half was faster than the first. Splits show endurance, patience, stamina, and well a competitive edge when racing.

I think splits can often refer to other splits required by running. The ability for instance to artfully split one's time between running and other activities. For some this is work, family, other sports, or even sleep. Splits can be what running does to us--the split desire to push oneself as hard as seemingly possible versus the inertia required to even get going some days. And yet still, splits can be obstacles we face and what drives us simultaneously. The split messages from those around us--the encouraging support of fellow runners with similar drives versus the jealous friend who misses the time you now spend with the road, or even the cautious friend or love one who hears this running thing is hard on the body. (Heck if it were easy everyone would do it.)

I realize I am motivated by both sides of this last split--I am motivated to get out there and get going by the supportive ones-the running club or training partner that is often crucial. Yet, I also find myself driven by those who do not support me or who question whether I can or should run. It is in the second half of a long run, or at the crucial muscle burning lung gasping moment, when I think of those who challenge me or question my ability. I do it to spite them and in spite of them. I do it because both voices are in my head and I refuse to allow the challengers to win.

Eastern States 20 miler--link to photos

2009-04-02T14:10:00.003-04:00

There was a sports photographer on site during the 20 miler-- check these out!

http://www.capstonephotostore.com/searchresult.php

Eastern States 20 mile Race

2009-03-31T10:23:00.024-04:00

What a feeling! I ran the Eastern States 20 mile Race this past Sunday. This is the furthest distance I have run, let alone raced.

The race was an all day event, a group of 6 of us left Salem at 7:30 and returned around 4. The logistics were the time consuming part. We drove to New Hampshire and parked, took a bus to Massachusetts where we chilled for a couple of hours in a gymnasium (okay, most of us went back and forth on what to wear, snacked, packed our gear--yes 20 miles involves gear, and made frequent bathroom trips). Here is the group of us waiting, and well, keeping our minds off the 20 miles in the rain upon us:)

The race started at 11. This is the Eastern States race because it takes you along the coast (almost all is on the coast) from Kittery, Maine to Salisbury, Massachusetts along route 1A in New Hampshire (aka Ocean Blvd). Here is a sample of some of our scenery. Note: it was a steady rain and it didn't look quite as beautiful as this, but the ocean is always beautiful! Yes, that second picture is pretty accurate while the first includes more sun that we ever saw!

The purpose of the race for me was to actually try and race the 20 miles and see what my marathon pace would look like. You simply can't go out full force when you have 20 miles ahead of you so the plan was to start off at a maintainable pace, pick it up in the mid miles a little, pick it up in the teens more, and then I could slow down towards then end or keep trucking if I felt good. This is the same plan for the marathon. IT WORKED!! My marathon partner (the one I can blame for talking me into this and is captured in this photo) and I started out with a similar plan but she hoped to run based on her heart rate and increase at similar increments as my pace. It happened, thank goodness, that her heart rate and my planned paces matched beautifully. Having a friend by my side was especially nice since it was raining the whole time. We started around 9:50 for three miles, picked up to 9:40 for a couple more, and then we coasted for about 5 on 9:20s before pushing the 9:15s and under. We even came under 9:00 for two of the miles! We did a great job of keeping ourselves in check with the pace ("not too fast now ladies, you have hours ahead of you. . .") and really enjoyed the race. I think this is quite an accomplishment--especially with pools in our shoes starting at mile 2 (yes, 10% in and we were soaked). Thank goodness my hat acted like an umbrella, I just had to tip my head and the water just streamed off:) Plus, we wanted to come in at 3:10 in order to be on target to test a marathon time of 4:10 and I crossed at 3:08 (3:07 watch time) and my partner was a minute ahead of me.

I have never been so proud of myself! It felt so good and I can certainly see myself pacing for another hour of running with the 8 weeks of training left (oh, boy!). Plus, I have to give a shout out to my running club--these New Englanders have overwhelmed me with their support. I received e-mails and facebook page messages before the race and tons after! I even had a faster Wicked runner give me a much needed hug at the end of the race--ok, I might have looked like I needed a little support standing as my legs were on auto pilot. You would think I already ran the marathon. This has me even more psyched for the marathon and I just can't wait. All now is some more long runs and mostly keeping myself healthy! That said, this is now R and R week for me and I am tired! I can tell my body needs a rest--nighty night:)

For the Love of Sewing and Running

2009-03-24T20:10:00.003-04:00

This weekend was jam packed with both sewing and running activities. Saturday am, I enjoyed a slow and easy 9 mile run (I know, I never thought I would say that either, but after 19 miles last week, it was) I ran with the running group Saturday am with my watch turned off and and was reminded why I love running. We ran along the trail for the first time since December, when my foot crashed through the ice, and ran to the Ocean where we enjoyed watching spring waves crash along the shore. Even if it was 25 degrees, it was beautiful! After the run--an ice bath, yes 10 minutes in cold water with all the ice our freezer can produce. My dog, Otis, always looks so concerned when I first step in the cold water and let out a muffled scream, then he lays his head on the side of the tub until I can start to read my book and then he eats the ice out of the water;) Such a sweet boy!!! I swear it is always worth it and aids in fast muscle recovery way better than any icepack ever could.

Later Saturday, A friend and her friend came over and we took a sewing machine out of the box and literally talked about the basics of the machine and sewing. It was so much fun! Once the needle holes they stitch on the lined paper are as straight as the paper, we'll stick some material in the machine and get going for lesson 2! Proof that sewing and running go together--they brought me a gift card to the running store--thanks gals!

Sunday was a lesson in the work involved in putting on even a small race. I volunteered to help work the Salem 5K cross country race. The course is a ton of hills and rough surfaces and not a good idea for me before a marathon, hence the volunteering and not running. I helped pass out bags with numbers and shirts in them to those who had registered early and then read off peoples' numbers at the finish so their times could be recorded accurately. It was so much fun to watch the friends I have made through the Wicked Running Club cross the finish and chear each of them on.

Hopefully the reminder of how much pleasure running and sewing have given me will help drive me through this coming weekend's 20 mile race. I have my fingers crossed that the rain in the forecast will hold off until after the race.

30K Organized Training Run (Run to the Beach)

2009-03-16T12:35:00.004-04:00

Okay, so we really didn't end up at the beach, but did run in the general direction toward the Atlantic and probably within 5 miles of it. The Run to the Beach run, was however a fun organized training run--this means a guy yelled go, there was more than 1 crazy person running along the road (130 of us), and there were nice guys with water and music at mile 5, 10, and 15. This was my longest run yet at 30K, or 18.6 miles. 9 of us from the Wicked Running Club (Salem's finest bunch) set out in a caravan at 8 am and ran from North Andover to Salisbury MA (at a bar of course). I ran with one of my fellow Wicked runners, one of the team Glenda runners from our December Mill Cities relay adventure. She was great--pushing me a little harder than I push myself and encouraging me up the hills and when I entered "new territory" after mile 16. We finished in just under 3 hours. It was a perfect day for a run, a brisk 42ish degrees when we started and 50 when we finish with the sun beaming all the way.

Countdown

2009-03-11T10:12:00.006-04:00

I have decided to begin providing weekly updates on how these last training weeks leading up to the marathon are going and what I am doing. I have 11 weeks until the marathon from this week (meaning there are 11 weeks counting the marathon week and 10weekends before marathon weekend). All of my long runs from this point on will be new territory for me, including this weekend, and who knows what kind of learning opportunities and thus odd stories might await us. Here is the breakdown of my planned remaining weekend training runs. Hopefully, this being public will help keep me accountable. I will spare you the details of the runs during the week, but they generally include two easy runs, two speed workouts, and the long run.

Week 11 (March 9): weekly total 37 miles, long run 18.6 miles
Week 10 (March 16): total 30 miles, long run 10
Week 9 (March 23): total 36, long run 20 mile race
Week 8 (March 30): total 23, recover week, 8 mile longest
Week 7 (April 6): total 38, long run 18
Week 6 (April 13): total 41, long run 20
Week 5 (April 20): total 27, long 8
Week 4 (April 27): total 44, long run 22
Week 3 (May 4): total 35, long run 15
Week 2 (May 11): total 20, long 8
Week 1 (May 18): RACE WEEK

This week (11) my long run will be an organized training run that I am running with friends from my running club this Sunday. Here is the website about the course: http://www.timedbyyankee.com/2009Races/runtothebeach/. Look for an update and photos from that run soon.

Finally, I know this is about running and SEWING. I will continue to write about sewing as I can, but realize that running takes a lot of time. I do have a sewing lesson planned for a friend and her pal, so you can also look for those if the running doesn't interest you.

Hyannis Half Marathon

2009-03-01T20:18:00.008-05:00

As part of our marathon training (yup, 12 weeks to go), my friend and I raced the Hyannis half marathon in Hyannis, MA. Hyannis is about 2 hours away on the Cape and where the Kennedy's live and the JFK memorial is found. We ran past the memorial as well as JFK beach (see photo) which was really nice. There were lots of big beautiful houses along our path and the smell of salty air. A very pretty race.

Unfortunately, our race day was not sunny like these photos, but rather a cloudy rainy day in the high 30s. Luckily, the rain held off until just after we finished (though those running the marathon got quite wet). My friend and I ran together for 9 miles at just under or at a 9 minute pace holding ourselves back and chatting about the scenery. At mile 8, I felt myself get the itch and knew we were running at a perfectly even pace (within 5 seconds each mile) and were going to break 2 hours--this is a great feeling. At mile 9 I safely gave into my itch, picking up the pace to 8:30s and the again with the last 1.5 miles to go (my last half mile was 7:30). There was a large crowd and I got even more motivated by counting the people as I passed (who said I was competitive?). I crossed in 1:57 (a personal best for me) after realizing the race was a little long at 13.26 instead of 13.1 (yes, that extra .16 matters when you are hauling @ss). I still passed the finish feeling my best for a half. Seems it was one of those few times where the stars and plans line up. I only hope the marathon proves as memorable and successful. Sorry for no finish photo, this was a huge race and the photo guy missed me:(

Westward Ho

2009-02-24T11:45:00.016-05:00

We recently traveled west for some relaxation time in one of our favorite cities--Santa Fe. We had a great time and enjoyed time on the couch, time on the slopes, good food, fresh air, and a side trip to Vegas! I managed to fit knitting and running both into our trip, but was quickly humbled running at altitude. Thank goodness knitting didn't require my lungs. My runs included speedwork and a long run of 14 miles that both left me breathless and slower than usual. I am always reminded of the joy I get from running when I am listening to only the sound of my feel on the trails and see such beautiful surroundings as the Santa Fe mountains. I only saw a few cars and the scenery was so beautiful and well quite literally breathtaking. (Yes, I really took that photo!)

My knitting included the completion of two cabled baby hats complete with ear flaps. They were quick, plane friendly, and turned out just adorable and soft.

Skiing was a blast and I think the running helped me quickly pick up where I left off two years ago--blasting down the blue hills and enjoying an easy black or two. I even heard myself yip outloud after getting airborne over a snowmound.

On the other hand, I am reminded of what a pain people can be while on a run down the strip in Vegas! We drove from Santa Fe to Vegas, with my mother-in-law and her boyfriend. It took about 10 hours and took me through uncharted territory in Arizona and a trek across the Hoover Dam (view the Dam photo).

In Vegas, we saw the Cirque du Soliel Love show (Beatles), played a little tennis in the warmer weather, and attended a friend's, yup his name is Ron and we know him, 70th birthday party at the Palms. Enjoy the photos!

16 Mile Race in NH

2009-02-21T16:41:00.005-05:00

A friend and I recently challenged ourself to what we have seen advertised as New England's most challenging road race. "Many say this race is among the toughest anywhere, with hills. The largest hill, Warner Hill (also known as Antennae Hill), is a long climb, but it too is ideal. It is at the same point in the race (70 to 75% complete) as the famous heartbreak hills in Boston—ideal training."

My friend and I trained for weeks, each Thursday running the steep hills in the famous Beacon Hill neighborhood in Boston. Up one hill, jog down, and up the next. . .repeat until we were grabbing our butts and quads.

We were told part of the charm of this race is often the weather. We got lucky--it was 8 degrees but not snowing or icing, as has been the case in previous years. Instead the sun helped keep us warm and toasty. (Notice that you can see my breath in the photo of me finishing.) Actually, our husbands probably beared the brunt of the coldness as they stood at the top of the last hill waiting for us to pass and cheering us on. We think they were just as much troupers as we were:)

Our goals continuously changed prior to the race. We'd go from hoping to run it as a solid training run in our marathon training schedule to my God just let me finish. Yet, we started out together running strong and kept it up, even climbing the hills with smiles and friendly chatter. At mile 13 my friend had an extra burst and we seperated, but she made the first 13 really enjoyable and I was able to power through those last 3 with independent determination took some time to reflect on how far I had come from a year ago. Luckily we both finished well under the 3 hour "strict" time limit where we would have been escorted off the course. I managed to cross in 2:35 feeling really good (a 9:47 pace for the 16 miles)--it was my longest run ever.

Bags Unveiled and Wild Weather

2009-01-02T18:11:00.004-05:00

We are back from our Holiday trip to the Midwest. We had a great time and enjoyed time with family and friends as well. The weather varied from the low twenties to the high sixties with high winds no matter the temperature quickly utilizing the limited variety of running gear I had towed along. Who knew you would need warm, cool, and freezing cold gear in a six day window? Regardless, it didn't stop me and all but 1 run were completed.

Plus, now that the gifts have been passed around and the packaging long tossed aside, I can reveal my Holiday project of 2008--large purse/tote bags for my sister and closest friend. The bags were amazing colors and patterns thanks to Amy Butler fabric I found back in Portsmouth (see earlier post from November). I really think the pleats and handle make this bag. I couldn't have been happier with how the pleats turned out and they seemed to hold up against my tossing the thing around through airports and travels. I hope to make some cute matching zippered cosmetic cases to go with the bags with the remnant material. I also hope to find a slightly smaller version or adapt this one. Both gals appear to have loved them, mine traveled well and served as my weight training apparatus throughout the trip, and requests have been put in to make more. See below:

First though, I gotta make myself a pair of dog print pajama pants with some pattern I picked up at the biggest JoAnn Fabrics ever back in IN.

HAPPY NEW YEAR--may this year be the year of fabulous projects and great running adventures!

What is in a Name?

2008-12-24T10:25:00.004-05:00

A rose by any other name. . . would probably still smell just as lovely. Regardless, someone probably took some time into figuring out that a rose should be called just that--a rose. Similarly, I took time in determining what to call this blog because I wanted it to reflect myself and what I would be writing about. Now, as I am pleased enough with my holiday creations (suspense building yet?) to put my name on them in the form of a label--the dilemma of a name haunts me. As a result, I am soliciting the help of my followers (assuming anyone out there reads this). The labels I like have room for two lines so I could have a title and then my name under it. For instance: A Running Stitch with my first initial and last name below it. Then again what about MJ Designs? MJ's Private Collection? MJ's Creations? Please, please let me know if you have ideas. Here is a webpage that specializes in these labels with examples: http://www.wevelabels.com/order1.php
Also, here is a friend's label to view as a sample:

Holiday Snow

2008-12-20T10:23:00.005-05:00

Since I can't post photos of my December projects until after Christmas (just wait for that post), what better than some fun photos of our recent snow--mind you it is still snowing. It appears we have about 10 inches or so of accumulation, but we can't tell due to the 35 mph winds. It is certainly a high mound of snow with the snow is up to Otis' belly. He LOVES the snow. If he isn't romping in it with his friends, he is chasing snowballs and questioning where they go (throw it Dad throw it), or eating it (note the mustache). HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

Break on Through. . .

2008-12-13T16:02:00.005-05:00

Ah, I believe I broke on through to the other side of winter today. After days of rain and cold temps in New England. . . I crashed through an iced over puddle early into a morning run resulting in filthy lake filled shoes and freezing toes for another hour and twenty minutes! Luckily, my running club companions also had cold wet feet and kept on going with me so we talked and got our mind off our feet.

I hope to knit under a huge pile of warm blankets the rest of the day taking a break to work on some Christmas presents at the sewing machine. The scarf I am knitting is a redo of a merino wool scarf that just wouldn't stop curling into a tube scarf and is coming along nicely. More details on the Christmas presents (and photos) once they are delivered:)

Here is a photo of the annoying curling scarf that I "frogged," a.k.a. ripped out, and the progress on the new scarf:

Mill City Relay Race

2008-12-07T15:13:00.013-05:00

With the first snow/winter mix in the area occurring today, I also enjoyed my first relay race--The Mill Cities Relay (http://www.millcities.com/). My running club was able to receive an invitation (yup, this is only for running clubs and by invitation only) and had 8 teams out of 193 teams!! The race totaled 28.3 miles, covered two states (MA and NH), had five legs of different lengths (2.5-9.5 miles each), and took place in slick and snowy conditions this year. I ran the 9.5 mile leg of the race along the river and crossed multiple towns--so fun running by those town signs. Total time for the team: 3 hours and 50 minutes. My leg: 1 hour 22 minutes (8:38 pace).

The 40 Wicked runners headed out of town at 5:45 am and started the adventure(s) at 8:00 am. We managed to fishtail our runners from one running exchange to the next with tons of laughs. My team of 5 ladies, a.k.a. the Wicked Good Glendas, certainly shared many laughs and Dunkin Donuts stops for coffee (seriously, these New Englanders drink Dunkin like water:)). Each leg was successful and we each ended with a smile after running on highways, though small towns, and even on a quaint stretch along a river with a beautiful dam/waterfall. Did I mention the snow??? What a pretty run until you were wet, cold, and freezing when you stopped running:)

I will definitely run another relay race with this team and especially these four amazing woman. One teammate's daughter even circled back with water for me after she drove by cheering me on and I asked for water--what a great group of people.

Lessons learned:
1.)spread all amenities between all cars involved
2.)have good maps for routes from any 1 leg to another
3.)notify each other when handoffs occur for better timing estimations (and to avoid running out of a port-a-potty to start a leg of a race)
4.) Thank my Dad again for teaching me to drive any car--including manuals and in any weather

Most Memorable Moments:
1.) Watching people slide down the hill in front of the starting area and questioning our sanity (what does it take for a weather delay?)
2.) Watching my teammate turn the bend like lightening in a tiara fully sporting the Wicked Good Glendas!
3.) Having people drive by screaming your name and "Looking Wicked Good"!!
4.) Getting to know new friends through car rides and fishtails

Who says Winter in New England keeps people inside?

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-28T14:12:00.009-05:00

My entire family has much to be thankful for and if you are reading this--you are certainly included as someone dear who we are thankful for having in our lives. Myself and two good friends I often run with started off the holiday early by participating in Salem's 5 mile Wild Turkey race along with 992 other runners--what a great turn out for a Salem race. It was a great race day with weather in the mid 30s and sunny with very little wind (what kills me out here in New England is the wind). All three of us had great races and I was tickled pink to have finished in the top third with a time of 41:57 (8:24 pace). I ran this race last year (as my second race ever) in 50:25--I shaved 8 minutes and 44 seconds off my time!!!! Something tells me these huge improvements can't continue much longer:) It was also great having a volunteer I knew chear me on at the mile 3 marker and having the lead racers loop past the rest of us so that I could chear on my friend Jason who was quite close to the front---he managed to finish 28th. Oh course, I am always thankful for the wet kisses from Otis and congrats from Justin at the end of the race.

After the race, and some relaxing, everyone chipped in to cook a great dinner. We managed to cook the following:
-turkey breast on the grill (Justin of course)
-cheese tofu streudel (my racing gal pal is a veggetarian)
-green beans
-a huge salad with fennel and beets
-mashed potatoes with roasted garlic (not Thanksgiving without mashed taters!)
-whole wheat dinner rolls with cranberries and walnuts
-cranberry sauce, and

another friend joined us and brought dessert after visiting her nearby family
-pumpkin bread (like banana nut bread)
-pumpkin cranberry bars

We even somehow managed to get all the timing right which is my downfall!

We of course finished off the night with the Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and Charlie Brown Mayflower story before snuggling up for well deserved sleep!!!

Finally, I'd like to add proof that running and sewing go together. I got an awesome athletic shirt with the "Wild Turkey" on it in a men's small which is well-way too big (why they don't give out smaller sizes at races is a whole other blog topic). Anyway, today will be spent at the sewing machine taking 4 inches out of the seams of the shirt!!!

New Find--Portsmouth fabric store

2008-11-24T18:02:00.002-05:00

I traveled with Justin and my in-laws, Sandi and Daniel, today to the quaint town of Portsmouth New Hampshire. One of the first stores we walked by was Portsmouth fabric (www.portsmouthfabric.com) and I FELL IN LOVE. Even Justin immediately recognized a good fabric store and realizes the difficulty in finding them so he didn't mind me spending extra time trying to find that perfect combination of materials for a project. Needless to say I picked up enough fabirc for three projects--two for Christmas presents so everyone will just have to wait to see these creations:) The fabric is Amy Butler(amybutlerdesign.com) and I am already dreaming of other projects.

Breakheart 5K

2008-11-23T23:22:00.008-05:00

Enjoyed a free, yup, free 5K (3.1 miles) race today in nearby Saugus, MA through Breakheart Reservation. It was a whopping 25 or so degrees and windy, but sunny and beautiful all along the course. In true family oriented turkey trot race fashion, there was no official time kept, but the clock read 26:10 (as did my trusty Garmin watch) when I crossed the finish--a personal best 5K time and a pace of 8:25. The second helf of the race was full of steep hills and resulted in me questioning the sanity of running 16 miles of hills in January!