Chocolate: It's Why We Run

Ignore last post

2006-11-09T19:34:00.000-08:00

Please IGNORE my previous post about the minimarathon in Indy. I can NOT do it. Well, if you already signed up, then I will do it. But Melvin is going to be in San Diego that weekend...so I'd actually like to go with him. And I'll have to arrange some sort of childcare.

One Race over....another ahead?

2006-11-09T08:35:00.000-08:00

It's been a couple weeks since the marathon, and I'm still losing toenails! Yesterday my big toenail came off. I'll spare you any photos!

And I must admit that I haven't even run a block since the marathon day. I'm so bad like that! Of course the cold weather, load of school work and general mom stuff are providing excuses for my lack of action.

Today I signed up for the Indianapolis 500 mini-marathon on May 5th! It's over 72% full, so you gotta sign up now! It also has a walking division.

Here's the link:
Mini-marathon

I registered with a time of 2:10...and plan on mailing in confirmation for a preferred coral (it explains it in the registration).

Let me know if you sign up, and I'll see about hotels.

Update?

2006-10-24T19:30:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to hear how it all went! Someone post soon please! Read a bit on Cari's blog but not enough- and where is the picture of the necklace??

The half-marathon with strollers went okay. It was an overall fun experience but my neighbor suffered an injury en route so took away from the fun. Fortunately she is feeling much better now and we're hoping it was more of a minor injury than it seemed at the time! She ended up with a troublesome knee injury the last two miles so we had to walk it in. (Well, I walked and she limped. At least the stroller made a nice crutch.) Little guy did well- slept most of the way and when he did wake up, cooed on the downhills. (I felt like cooing too- the uphills were hard for me and the break on the downhills much needed.) He did have some tears near the end but they were short-lived.

We had lots of cheers and comments- the race was @ 70% women so I felt a bit like I was out in San Fran with you all! Probably my favorite part of the whole experience was driving my car to the start, passing by all the buses, with the "official race vehicle" pass they gave us on my dashboard. It was really nice to sit and nurse in a warm car while watching all the other runners huddle in the cold desert waiting for the start. We stepped out just minutes before starting, toasty warm with cozy little ones.

Post soon with details!

L

Time is ticking

2006-10-16T20:33:00.000-07:00

Less than a week away!!! ARE YOU READY?????????

San Francisco weather for Oct. 22 according to Yahoo Weather, extended forcast:
Sunny, High 66°FLow 56°F -- Could it get more perfect than that???

Drink lots of water, eat lots of pasta, get plenty of rest!

girlfriend cards

2006-10-11T20:38:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to the cards Lanette and I used to help us finish our long run in the Outer Banks. They really helped take my mind off how incredibly horrible I felt. And boy did we spark some conversations!!!!

Last long one

2006-10-06T19:29:00.001-07:00

I ran my last long run yesterday. I know, I know....I'm supposed to be tapering. But after my crappy run in the heat of the Outer Banks, I needed to do another long run just to give myself the confidence I needed for this marathon in a couple weeks.

I was supposed to run long on Monday...but it was 83 degrees. Yesterday it was around 60....perfect! I just set out to do 3 1/2 hours. I ended up running around the perimeter of my town. And the last hour involved long country roads...which translates to long country uphills!!!! I can't believe I finished a run like that slogging up hills!

But it felt good to be able to run that far without too much trouble. My body was certainly aching that last hour...and to think in the marathon I'd have another hour to run...oh my!

So I know I probably shouldn't have, but I did it....3 1/2 hours. I just hope I didn't over do it!

Last long one

2006-10-06T19:29:00.000-07:00

Outer Banks

2006-09-29T18:09:00.000-07:00

I don't know about Cari, but our trip to the Outer Banks seemed like the shortest trip we have ever taken. The time seemed to fly by! We stayed at a great hotel, slept in, ate what and when we wanted, went shopping, and had some fab martinis!

I didn't have the greatest run (we seem to alternate on these long run trips, so I guess it's Cari's turn next time to have a bad run), but I didn't turn back and though I walked/ran half of it, I still ran for 3:20 and Cari did 3:30+.

I would recommend getting Girlfriend question cards - ask Cari where she got them. They really helped in getting us through those last five miles. And the conversation those questions generated! We have to have them for the marathon!

After the run and a bit of time spent on beach and by the pool (it was very hot, over 85), we did a little shopping for kid's gifts and wine, had a great dinner in tropical storm force winds, and then capped the evening off by hitting a couple of martini bars and talking to strange women about breast implants! All in all it was a relaxing weekend - I forgot all about the dissertation I am trying to finish and my crazy job!

I can't wait until San Francisco - we can fill you in on the details then!

Joining you all in spirit

2006-09-27T20:05:00.000-07:00

I will be more than virtually joining you in your Tiffany-necklace quest on the 22nd! About the time you all are pounding up the hills in San Fran looking for chocolate, I'll be pushing my running stroller in Little Guy's first ever half-marathon. My next-door neighbor and I have committed to running "The Other Half" half-marathon in Moab, UT (home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks) and received permission to run with our strollers and infants.

Needless to say, Husband thinks it's crazy to run a half-marathon pushing a stroller. I'm not sure that I totally disagree with him- as I've explained before here (I think) I just can't seem to figure out how to run with the thing without tripping or dying of exhaustion on any sort of uphill grade at all. However, running with my Little Guy and a single stroller seemed a perfect solution to my neighbor's original idea. She thought we'd take a girls' weekend of sorts to run the race- heading out to Moab with just the kids, meaning my little one, her adorable little baby girl, and her equally adorable 4 year old twins. Sounds fun until I realized the next part of her plan: We would each push a double stroller with 1 FOUR-YEAR-OLD twin and 1 baby. Remember again my earlier statement: I just can't seem to figure out how to run with a SINGLE stroller and little 5 month old infant without tripping or dying of exhaustion on an uphill. There is no doubt in my mind that the unlucky twin that ended up with me would be busy flagging down the sweep vehicle and EMTs after I had dropped to the ground somewhere in the first few miles.

My neighbor didn't quite comprehend my vision and thought we'd be fine. (Mind you, the woman is an amazing athlete and pushes a double running stroller like it's floating on air.) Luckily, we have convinced her mother to run the half as well, so now have a grandfather available to watch the twins and Husband is coming along too, so I'm off the hook and down to just pushing 1 child along.

I'm very much looking forward to the run- I can't quite call it a race as it will have to be very non-competitive. My neighbor and I rarely get the time we want to chat so it will be terrific to have a few hours on the road to do so. Only issue is that I will be huffing and puffing with that running stroller so she'll have to do the talking as she effortlessly runs along and I gasp in response. (There's also the "side" issue of what happens if Little Guy decides not to take a nice stroller nap like normal...) The course is beautiful with the red rocks and views. (Tons of movies and commercials are shot in Moab so you've actually "seen" the place before!) We're promised hot chocolate at the beginning of the race and beer at the end- very nice. Won't quite live up to my dreams of a chocolate mile and a Tiffany necklace, but it'll do for now, and it will be fun thinking of you all out running at the same time just one time zone away.

I do have one big request for you all. Could you please look closely at the finish and see if the half-marathoners get the same necklace as the marathoners? Good info for next year. (Is it not obvious that I am the one who started this whole thing by luring Cari in with the necklace? I'm obssesed!)

Traveling to Run

2006-09-19T23:02:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know this, since Lanette and I live so far away, we arrange a trip for a girls' weekend to do a long run together. We did NOT do this for the San Diego Marathon because we I still lived in NJ, so we ran together all the time. I think our longest run for that race was from South Brunswick to New Hope. I remember going up those country hills looking for the Gatorade that Jaye was supposed to drop off for us!

When training for Twin Cities, we met in Tampa. The run wasn't great for Lanette, but the pool and beach sure was!

When training for Chicago, we met in Niagara Falls. I had a really hard time and had to cut short my long run, but Lanette did great. And we enjoyed the sites and the wineries!!!!

This weekend we're going to the Outer Banks. I'm flying into Philly on Friday and driving down with Lanette. I've never been there, and I REALLY need a break from life here. I can't wait!!!

Is anyone else planning on joining us?

Triumphant at last

2006-09-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been VERY worried about being able to do this marathon. With my hip and knee injuries, my long runs have been postponed over and over again. My last long run was that disasterous one in the middle of a hot day that I had to walk so much just to barely make it home.

But today, I set out to do a long run, and 3 hours and 10 minutes later I came bounding up my driveway with a smile on my face and some spring still left in my stride.

It was actually quite cool (high 50s - low 60s) and cloudy, with only a very slight breeze...perfect for running.

I started out really slow, and just sorta made my way around some lakes in the area, stopping only twice (off clock) to get a Clif bar and gatorade and to use the bathroom. I didn' t even feel the need to walk at all, and I'm pretty sure that my last hour was the fastest of all three of them. I just felt that good.

I REALLY needed a run like this.

Next big one....in the Outer Banks. Hope to see you all there! I'm flying into Philly and driving down with Lanette.

Let's get some updates from the rest of you!!!!!!

I'm Upping the Ante....

2006-08-30T06:13:00.000-07:00

Fellow runners:

As I follow your training progress and having been inspired by the same, and, as I have received the "green light" to start running again, I have, as you know, registered for the P.F. Chang's Rock 'n Roll 1/2 marathon in January (the 14th). I now put to you a challenge to join me in this race. As you will be far enough from the Nike Women's Marathon to have recovered sufficiently, a 1/2 marathon should be no problem for you. Plus, it's a holiday weekend (and right now, R.T flights from Newark on Continental are quite reasonable!). There are many, many lovely hotels and resorts in the Phoenix area (including some villas that can sleep from 6-8 people, keeping costs low, if that is a concern). A bonus - it's a nice family vacation.

To sweeten the pot, I submit to you the following: Keiko will be running with me. She is officially registered and we will formally start training this weekend and is in the process of attempting to recruit some other friends to run with us. I must give you a quick background - Keiko HATED running. She said she would only run if someone was chasing her. Now all of that has changed, and I am both elated and proud to know that she is serious about this committment.

Will you accept the challenge and set this new goal after finishing the Women's Marathon in October? I await your answer.....

I hope your run went better than mine!!!!

2006-08-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day for a long run. It was in the 70s, cloudy, almost drizzling. I was wearing some new running shorts and new running shoes. I had a babysitter, and time to run.

However, not 1/2 mile from my house, I stumbled and fell...hard...right on my knees. Blood was dripping down, and my knees were hurting, so I decided to turn back, get cleaned off and just do a few miles on the treadmill.

After only 1.5 miles on the treadmill I had to stop because the sweat oozing into my scraped knees caused too much stinging. When I sat down on the weight machine next to our treadmill, feeling defeated, I was immediately taken aback by how my right new actually appeared. It looked like someone stuffed a golf ball inside it. It was so scary looking.

Later, the swelling went down some, but then my skin turned black and blue. And the scrapes are still burning!

I better go get some ice, take some advil and try again next week.

I'm Back in the Game, Baby!!

2006-08-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

After finally receiving a clean bill of health from my doctor (nothing so serious that diet, excercise, Nexium and iron supplements can't manage) to start running again, I decided to set my sights on a race in January, someplace warm. I just registered for the P.F. Chang's Rock n Roll 1/2 Marathon (there's a full marathon, too, but I'm easing back into the mix), so I'm committed. I'm also very excited - it's a relatively inexpensive race, a beautiful backdrop to run, I have family there (and family going with me), and I get to see the Grand Canyon! Here's the link: http://www.rnraz.com/home.html. I know you all are training for the Women's marathon in November, but this is in January (a birthday/holiday present for myself), and both races are still open. Anybody interested? What a way to start out the New Year - I'm getting so pumped!

Along those lines, yesterday, I ran along the towpath in Kingston, which I haven't done all summer, and missed so much. It was invigorating - the weather was beautiful, and I felt quite well. In fact, as I was finishing my run, I began to wax poetic in my mind, taking in everything around me. Wrote a poem about it - want to hear it-here it goes:
released from my metal cage, I set off on my journey.
starting slowly, getting my bearings, then
steps coming lighter, faster, stronger.
I am a gazelle, bounding free, breathing easy,
cheered on by squirrels; my footsteps the percussion
to the songs of birds and cicadas.
a dragonfly - my bodyguard - leading the way,
pausing only to allow me to catch up, then flitting
off again, setting my next goal.
I return to my cage, stronger than when I began;
looking forward to the next time - my next
flight of freedom...

Exhausted

2006-08-04T18:38:00.000-07:00

With the extreme heat and rain, it has been hard to find a day to do a long run. Finally, today I decided to venture out and attempt to do a 2 1/2 hour run. Who cares that it was still 85 degrees. Who cares that it was in the middle of the day. Who cares that I would be running where there was very little shade.

My body cared!!!!!

Ugh!!!! I did 50 minutes before stopping for a drink, banana and powerbar. Then I continued along, finding new lakes and trails in my town. But by 1 1/2 hours, I was really beat and found myself walking a lot. My legs felt fine, but the rest of me didn't at all. But I had to get home, so I trudged along. At about 1/2 mile until my house, my legs finally gave out. I had "charlie horse" type cramps in both my front quads. Oh how I just wanted to get home.

So I actually only ended up running for 2 hours and 10 minutes...with lots of breaks. And with the ending walk, it was closer to 2:25.

This run made me think of 2 things:

1. I need a running partner. Someone to help pace me and encourage me and prevent me to do stupid things like run the route I did today, at midday.

2. I now recall why after my last training for a marathon that I said I was only going to do 1/2 marathons.

I hope the rest of you are having better long ones!!!!

11 weeks to go....

2006-08-02T18:11:00.000-07:00

well, we have 11 weeks before race day! what is everyone doing??? it has been hot in New Jersey Pennsylvania and Minnesota (don't know about Utah ) these past weeks, but are we presevering? Gotta get those runs in.

I just watched an on-demand show about training for a marathon - not chocked full of info but interesting as they suggested you can train for a full marathon in 10 weeks on three days of running a week. A long run, mile intervals at race pace, and a tempo run. strength training was important too, twice a week. so anyone who is really behind in their training like me, there is still hope!!

I have been feeling very good lately, I actually did a fartlek workout last week (3 min jog, 3 min run for 4 miles) and a negative split 7 miler, I think I actually went under 10 minute miles for one of the miles!! What a change in two weeks! and, sorry Cari, but I have a new training partner - my son! He rides his bike with me, right next to me, and puts out his hand if he hears me breathing too hard or if I say I'm tired. He carries our water/propel bottles. we also use walkie-talkies when he feels like riding ahead. Now, if I can only get him to trades places with me......

Rejuvenated, part II

2006-07-21T09:18:00.000-07:00

I have been excited to run this marathon, but with a sort of major setback (anemia, causing extreme fatigue when trying to run) I was getting very worried about being able to train at all. It seemed impossible for me to run over 20 minute without feeling like I was running under water. But with the overloading of iron I have been doing in the past month, I think I am finally starting to get better! The run with Cari was my first real test, and yes we ran slow, but we ran! Since then, I have been getting out there, still running slow, but running nonetheless. I am hoping that I will soon be able to get back to 10 minute miles (yes I did say slow) for more than a few miles. I am going for 1:45 this week and 2 hours next week - a bit behind schedule but still okay. Thanks Cari for the lift!

I hope to see everyone in the Outer Banks on the weekend of Sept 22-24 for our last long run party!

Rejuvenated

2006-07-12T18:52:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I haven't been all that excited about this marathon. I wanted to be. I talked some people into doing it. I started this blog for motivation. And I chose a marathon that seemed incredibly fun. But still, I lacked enthusiasm for the training, event, etc.

Until yesterday. Lanette and I finally ran together, for the first time in I don' t know how long. We only did 1 1/2 hours, and we were slow. But it felt so good to be running with my friend again. I even went out and bought a cute matching running outfit.

So Saturday, I plan to run for 2 hours. What's everyone else doing now???

Question

2006-06-27T14:11:00.000-07:00

When doing hill work.....Is it better to do short steep hills, or long upgrades?

Setbacks

2006-06-23T06:34:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we've had some setbacks. My sister is injured, Lanette has some medical issues, I think my husband's partner who I convinced to run is dropping out due to injury, and I've been sick and haven't run in almost 3 weeks.

But we won't give up!!! Dana, as Lauren said, REST!!!! Lanette...you, too! Melvin said running with anemia can give you a stroke!!!! So wait until you're healthy...seriously.

And I went bathing suit shopping this week....that was all the motivation I needed to get back on the road.

So hang in there ladies...get back..and then get back at it!!!

92

2006-06-19T21:44:00.000-07:00

A church in my neighborhood had a 5k run/walk this weekend for breast cancer. A friend and I walked it with our strollers and got started a little late due to some last minute stroller adjustments with her son. Next to us at the back of the pack was an older man- looked to be in his 70s maybe. He was walking determinedly with a spring in his step. When we came near to the finish, both of us commented to each other that we hoped we'd be in as good of shape as he looked to be when we were older.

At the pancake breakfast following the run/walk, they annouced the age-group awards. The older man won his age group- the 90-100 age group! He is 92.

He's my inspiration this week for healthy living!

Yea Sis!

2006-06-12T18:52:00.000-07:00

Because she won't do it, I'll do it for her. My sister, Dana, ran 10 miles this weekend. I am proud of her!!!!

Me on the other hand...I ran zero miles. I've been sickly for over a week now; I know if I even attempted to run right now, I'd pass out with dizziness. So I'll let this headcold take it's course before I get back on course.

Tri Results

2006-06-10T16:06:00.000-07:00

The tri was really fun. Here's some of the more interesting highlights:
1) Sitting in the car with my swimsuit half off and nursing while hearing over the loudspeaker "The race will start in 3 minutes. All athletes should be in their lanes at this time." (I did make it- the little guy finished up and I ran to the pool!)
2) Looking around during T1 and discovering that Husband had forgotten to put my shoes in the transition area with my bike and things. (He had set up my spot for me while I was nursing.)
3) Waving and yelling "Is he okay?" at the end of each lap during the bike leg and seeing Husband give the thumbs-up from the sidelines with the stroller.
4) Jogging comfortably and thinking peacefully as I headed into the finish- totally oblivious that there was a woman sprinting behind me as fast as she could to try to beat me to the chute. (According to Husband I looked pretty funny.)
5) Watching Husband proudly show my trophy off to our son- Husband loves it when I win.
And I actually won the whole thing- 1st place for the entire women's division. Got a nice trophy and some gift certificates. (It's just a local summer series of tris so there aren't a lot of people- there was probably about only 40 today and many more men than women. But it still was sort of fun to win I have to admit! )

I know this is supposed to be a fitness blog- but I have to share the much more exciting news from today in my household: My little siu mai laughed out loud today for the first time! He grinned at his daddy and then let loose with some chuckles!

Tri-ing- Too Soon?

2006-06-09T11:40:00.000-07:00

Husband has tomorrow off as we were supposed to attend a baptism class. But the class was cancelled so suddenly I have a Saturday morning with baby support. I wasn't planning on doing any races until mid-July (a tri on July 15th) but figured- why not? The running is going okay (when I get a chance to go out) even though I average @ 4 hours sleep total a night, and I don't see that changing any time soon...so I might as well "tri" a race for fun now instead of waiting.

A local series has one of their events scheduled for tomorrow morning at 6:30 am. It's a sprint race and my goal will just be to finish the thing. Not actually sure if this is doable but we'll see- I haven't been on a bike since last year. (And my bike is a 18 year old Schwinn ten-speed complete with kickstand so interesting in itself- I attracted much "attention" last year on it when riding amongst all the fancy high-end new tri-bikes- triathletes tend to be gear geeks and get the latest of everything.) I haven't swum since I was 33 weeks pregnant and the little guy will be 8 weeks old tomorrow so that's been 15 weeks then. I haven't run beyond 45 minutes either so no endurance. All in all- should be interesting!! (Then there's the issue of running in my unsupportive swim suit with my newly enhanced nursing chest... I may have a very long T2 as I run to the bathroom to put on my super-scary Madonna-inspired sports bra!)

I tried to get Husband to do this as a team relay (he'd do the bike part) but he's not interested- too early in the morning. :) We need to leave here at 5:15 to give me a chance to nurse my little siu mai before the start. I figure if I can feed him around 6 then I'll be really motivated to finish within an hour and a half- he'll be hungry by 8!

So please wish me luck! If it rains tomorrow morning or if he has a rough night then we won't go- and if he starts crying during the race I'll stop (nice thing about this tri is that it's a loop course for the bike and run so I'll be able to check in with the family about every 10-15 minutes)

Am I being insane? Husband did point out that I have a quite large pile of work I haven't been able to do and that I generally should use a good deal of the time he is home to do that work. But he seemed to understand that while 6 am is a "great" time to go run and swim and bike it's not so hot for trying to work on an article.... although he also mumbled something about sleep-deprived people actually needing to sleep when they get the chance....

Fashion

2006-06-09T11:34:00.000-07:00

Have you all seen these yet? I read the story of the woman who started the company and went to the web site to check them out: http://www.skirtsports.com/

What do you think?

When it's hot!

2006-06-07T21:19:00.000-07:00

Now that "Serious training" has started (uh, haven't run since last Friday...and felt sick today...so I'm not quite on track yet), I thought it would be good to post tips for running in hot weather. I was thinking the number one tip would be NOT to run, but that wouldn't help our training. And as Gayle so eloquently demonstrated for us, you shouldn't run in hot weather when hung-over. Any other suggestions? Here are mine.

1. Run early or late...when it's the coolest.
2. Drink and run with Gatorade. It really is better than water when running longer. Get the special sports bottle kind. At first it might feel strange if you're not used to running with a bottle, but after a few times, it will seem normal (at least to me it does).
3. Run where it's shady.
4. Wear a hat and sunscreen.
5. If it's too hot and humid...turn around and go back home. Don't risk overheating yourself!

Inspired by You

2006-06-03T16:47:00.000-07:00

I did it! Inspired by the fact that you all are beginning "serious training" this month, and that today was the Salt Lake City marathon so there were people running a marathon right past my house, I ran the entire hilly park route. It took 42 minutes- my longest run to date post-baby. Felt pretty good and I was quite tired at the end.

I seriously need to start working on some sit-ups or something though to strengthen my back and stomach. I don't have any core strength when I am running. Any suggestions for good exercises?

L

4 months to go!

2006-06-01T10:27:00.000-07:00

Okay, it is June 1st and serious training is about to begin! 16 weeks to get ourselves together! Here are some training tips for June:

1. For runners, by the end of June your long run should be 2 hrs long. For walk/runners, you should be up to 2hr 30min.

2. You should still be running a long run every week this month. Next month, we can go to every other week.

3. Another run each week should include your target or faster than target marathon pace. Faster than target if you can already run at your target pace. the run could be intervals at your pace of at least 3 miles. Or you can run some miles in a longer run at your goal pace.

4. For one other run of any length, include a route that has hills ( and no, stepping up on a high curb does not count). There are some big hills on the marathon course and we need to be prepared.

Let's get out there and work off all that chocolate!

Question

2006-05-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

I ran 8 today...what did you do?

What not to do....

2006-05-30T07:10:00.000-07:00

Don't ever think you can go for a long run in the 90 degree weather with a serious hangover, chances are you won't make it. I speak from experience!

Going Longer

2006-05-25T21:11:00.000-07:00

I should have written this yesterday...but I was just too exhausted.

Yesterday I ran further than I have in over 2 1/2 years..since the Chicago Marathon...before I was even pregnant with Max.

It was only about 7 miles, but I'm getting there. After the 2nd lap around the lake, I was just ready to be done, but I made myself go a third time, pushing Ella of course.

I can't really say it felt good...it felt hard. And to think I'll have 19 more miles to go in the marathon.

Oh my.

Sleep!

2006-05-24T14:45:00.000-07:00

I'm posting again to share some fantastic news!! My little guy slept last night for a 3 hour stretch! First time ever! From midnight all the way until 3:00 am!!

I felt like an entirely new woman this morning when I got up! Since the husband is off work today and home I was able to go for a morning run and I felt so springy in my step- like the first run in new shoes. I even dared to take the short version of the hilly route and pick up the pace a bit past a shuffle (to a shuffle-step?) Had to walk on two of the top bits of hills though. My next goal is to be able to run regular version of the hilly route with no walking- but that is partially dependent on little man beginning to spread out his feeding a little longer. Good goal for maybe in a month or two.

:) I ran AND showered today so even though I continue to accomplish nothing on the growing pile of writing and work to be done- I'm feeling very successful. (Besides, I'm finding actually doing work so, so, so unimportant when compared to holding and playing with and even just sitting around looking at my little guy. Good thing I stopped the tenure clock for the coming year....)

It's beautiful weather here today- hope all of you are also having a sunny running day.

2006-05-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

I think I've finally figured out to post so here I go- but in my sleep-deprived state I could be posting this on some other random blog so in case that happens I apologize in advance!

I'm Cari's friend Lauren and proud to say the one who gave Cari the idea of doing the San Fran women's marathon in the first place. Once I heard about the Tiffany necklace I was hooked! Couldn't do it last year as both Cari and I were pregnant, but was excited about the possibility of this year's race. Unfortunately, while I was dithering about whether I could possibly run a marathon less than 6 months after giving birth (ask Cari for my intricate and insane plans to breastfeed en route) I missed the sign-up for it. So I'll be here virtually rooting all of you on instead.

I'm hoping I can still join in here and post once and awhile as I begin to run again for the first time in a year. My little guy was born on April 15th and I hit the pavement for my first run at 3 weeks 4 days. So far I've been going about every other day for about 30 minutes. This has been dependent on being able to feed the munchkin around 6 so I can get out there while my husband watches him before he leaves for work. Since the little man still hasn't figured out what nighttime is all about and wants to have a hoe-down from 12-5 am, and seems to think a regular pattern for eating is something for the birds, the every other day notion is a bit of stretch- but I have been running somewhat regularly this last week.

The running itself is very interesting as well. I stumble quite a bit (not sleeping can do this- see little man's ideas re night and day and eating above) and have been passed by groups of (fast?) walking seniors and moms with packed double-strollers. But the biggest struggles have been with the "effects" of breastfeeding. I bought myself a very imposing looking jog bra that I'm hoping will help. I know there are lots of moms on this blog so any supportive advice would be appreciated! (hee hee)

I'll be checking in to read your posts regularly. I think I may look for a local 1/2 to run the same day as SF so I can train along with you.

Happy running!

Thanks, Cari!

2006-05-19T16:14:00.000-07:00

Well, I didn't think we actually took the name of this blog seriously...but I guess Cari does since she sent me 5 BOXES of CHOCOLATE for Mother's Day!!!!! Every time I walk past it, it just calls my name - so delicious! But at what cost......I'll get even though. Just wait till you get my payback gift (that is, when I get around to sending it).

What I Did, I Was Compelled to Do

2006-05-15T20:12:00.000-07:00

It was such a beautiful day last Sunday, I HAD to get out. I felt so free, so empowered, and I wasn’t even running, but I was MOVING. Let me backtrack a bit:

I have been having problems with daytime sleepiness, and my doctor thinks I may have sleep apnea (that can be serious), but that won’t be diagnosed until I have a sleep study (which is scheduled to happen within the next couple of weeks – which is why I’ve also been hesitant to register for any races yet). In any case, I have had such little energy for the last few months; I didn’t think I would ever get out. Since we have PS2 at home, I decided to buy Dance Dance Revolution (or DDR), so at least I could be a little active. Most days, though, I just wanted to sleep as soon as I got home – and that’s what I usually did.

I HATED being so lethargic – especially on sunny days. On my way to and from work, I would see countless runners, and all I could hear in my head was, “I should be out there, too.” But, nearly every day when I arrived home from work, I would head for the bed (or couch), and I’d take a nap, until it was time to make dinner, then go to my second job, or to fellowship.

I did have some days where I just pressed through, and did DDR for ½ hour or so. I felt great, but then, about an hour or two later, I’d feel like I was just hit by a bus. I could literally hear my bed calling out for me – and I would struggle with the Sandman until I got home.

Last Sunday, however, was different. I was determined to get out and move. I’d already missed out on registering for the Nike Marathon that everyone else is doing, but I had to set SOME sort of goal and this was it. I would do at LEAST a 2 mile walk – the day was too nice to waste! I put on my running shoes, turned on a teaching tape, gave myself 30 minutes on my watch and set out to reacquaint myself with my neighborhood on foot. I wanted to run, but I just kept it at a brisk walk. It was invigorating! It was also very warm, but I really didn’t care – I did those two miles!

I felt so alive, so free, but most of all, I felt AWAKE.

How many miles equals a can of chips?

2006-05-11T18:11:00.000-07:00

I ran 4 miles on Monday, and 4.5 on Wednesday....because of the weather it was all on my treadmill...yuck. But I did it. I could have done more, but I had Ella who kept demanding my attention.

And then after running yesterday, I ate almost the entire can of Pringles.

I gotta be better or this weight will never come off.

Oh yeah... I did a search and found what last year's necklace looked like. I hope no one was expecting diamonds or anything. I do really like that it's a running pendant. Now we can finally wear our finisher's medals out in public without looking like a dork!!!

Its All In My Head...

2006-05-11T11:03:00.000-07:00

I have managed to get out everyday this week so far (except for Monday). I'm not sure how far I went but I was out for 1 hr and 15 mins on Tuesday and for 45 mins yesterday (I'm not counting the time that I spent running from a VERY angry duck).

This week has been kind of hard motivationally speaking. It's not a matter of being out there or even not thinking that I'm not going to finish, because I KNOW that I can. It's more so been, "How come I can't get myself to run?". After I finished Tuesday, I was pretty bummed.

But something was different about yesterday. I was in the middle of Washington Crossing Park on the Continental Trail and something said you could get back to your car a lot faster if you picked up the pace. And I did. And surprisingly it didn't hurt, my chest didn't cave in and I felt good. All of a sudden those 13.1 miles don't seem so bad anymore.

Marathon Regrets

2006-05-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had my first marathon regrets when I finally realized the magnitude of what I have signed myself up for. I was suddenly hit with it, "How on earth am I gonna do this?" But I am determined not to think about the actual day and to try to enjoy the progress I will make as Gayle and I train. I actually went running on my own last night (which I never do) and it wasn't to bad. I did 3 miles and I didn't feel like I was going to die. So I guess that's progress :-)

It's on!

2006-05-05T18:26:00.000-07:00

Well - 2 entries in one day. The marathon is officially closed with 15000 runners. and there are no refunds, rainchecks, trade-offs. We are committed!

Chocolate: It's Why We Run: April 2006

2006-05-05T18:25:00.000-07:00

Chocolate: It's Why We Run: April 2006

Another piece of necessary running equipment

2006-05-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

Chocolate: It's Why We Run
Yesterday when I went out for a long run (1 hour in 87 degrees!) I was worried that my route might not be long enough for the hour (little did I realize how far out of shape I was!). So I thought let me look on my NEW navigation system of my NEW MDX to see if there is some other road I could use to lengthen my run. I sat in the parking lot of where I planned to start my run and looked on the navigation map to see where else I could possibly run. As I moved the cursor, I noticed that mileage was showing up on the screen. Lo and behold, it was showing me how far up the road I had moved the cursor from where I sat in my car! I clicked up to the street that I wanted to run to and it told me how far away it was - so I knew exactly how far I was going to run!

Unfortunately, it doesn't help me run any faster - it was a bit better when I thought that I was able to run 6 miles in 60 minutes instead of only 5!

Tylenol or Percacet

2006-05-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have just had a reminder as to how out of shape I really am. I have been riding the "I did a Marathon" bus for way to long and figured that justified my inactivity, well I've finally been kicked off! I could attribute some of the soreness to the fact that maybe Brandee and I over did it Tuesday afternoon, however I have to take full responsibility for the fact that I have really become just that lazy.

Someone please pass the Percacet, so I can get right back out there today....

sleepy run

2006-05-03T19:40:00.000-07:00

Max had me up from 2AM to 3:30AM...singing. That crazy boy wanted to lay on the couch with me and sing. I have no clue what he was singing..but he had several tunes going on..until I finally just plopped him in his crib and let him sing the blues.

Then Ella woke up immediately after, so I had to feed her. Needless to say, I was exhausted today...almost falling asleep at the hair salon.

BUT, I had a babysitter, and wanted to get some miles in. So I ignored the fatigue and found a new lake to run around a couple times, admiring all the beautiful homes backed up to it. It took me about 35 minutes to run around it twice...not sure how far it was, but I ran.

What training are you following Lanette? When do you start your long runs?

5 miles down and 21.2 to go

2006-05-03T05:31:00.000-07:00

Training has officially begun. Yesterday Gayle and I did 5 miles (I think, we were talking so much we lost track of how many times we went around) But I'm sure it was at least 5 miles. Since we were only walking I was surprised at all the aches and pains I felt. As a non runner, I am sure that I will have to spend a week or so in bed after this marathon. I think I'll request time off of work right now.

treadmill tantrums

2006-05-01T20:16:00.000-07:00

After my two week hiatus due to vacation and a smashed up toe, I ran today. Because of the rain, I had to do it on my treadmill. And because Ella decided not to take her morning nap when I wanted her to, I had to literally stop after each mile in order to move her from her bouncer to the floor, to her walker, back to the floor, because she was not enjoying watching me ingore her while I ran, and she fussed throughout my entire run. But I did 4 miles...and if she wasn't crying so much, I could have done more.

Now both Gayle and Lanette said they were going to start running on May 1st.......did we do as we professed????

Chocolate: It's Why We Run

2006-04-28T16:26:00.000-07:00

Chocolate: It's Why We RunHere we go...my first blog post! I am not a snob or anything, but being a mom, wife, housekeeper, aspiring doctor, and a caretaker for mathematics in two elementary schools doesn't leave time for much else. But since I am on the downslope for finishing my disseration and have committed to my 6th marathon, it is time to get back to running (since I haven't run since September!).

So, to start, why I run. Well, for all the reasons everyone else, too much chocolate (and key lime pie, cookies, bread, etc), to keep my weight down, be able to wear a bathing suit, look good at 40+, to say I can do it, etc. But the real reason is the same reason why I work and study so hard: I am a women and want to prove that we are better than men!

There you go.

Why I run or at least why I plan to....

2006-04-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, once again I have been duped into running a marathon. This time under the guise of it being a birthday present to myself ( the 6th anniversary of my 21st birthday is October 13th). People say you should give someone else a present on your birthday so I have managed to hoodwink my best friends wife, Brandee into coming along because its such "a great experience" and a "wonderful cause". I neglected to mention that pain ensues afterwards, but I had to find out the hardway.

As far as training goes, I haven't started yet and being that my six steps to the vending machine don't count, I'm starting from ground zero. That being said, Brandee and I are going to start May 1st, going 3 days a week. My goal for this marathon is to actually run 13.1 so I'm going to need a whole lot of support.

Since I'm not that big on Chocolate these are the reasons why I run ( or will start running):

1. .... Because I quit smoking and now need another addiction
2. .... Because my butt waves goodbye for me
3. .... Because Chocolate made me fat in the first place
4. .... Because I'll be damned if my 38 year old sister looks better then me this summer.... lol..

Toe update

2006-04-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

My toe has gotten better. It's not so dark and puffy, but does hurt if you step on it. I thought I'd try to run on it today...but it's raining. So I think I'll wait until Sunday when the weather should be better. Anyone else started their training?

Oh, and Dana, I had to post the picture of my toe...that's what digital cameras are for...capturing the moment and sharing it immediately! You know that if I didn't have the picture, you would be wondering what my toe actually looked like!!!

Ouch

2006-04-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

First let me preface the picture below by telling you that last week my toes looked really nice. I had a pedicure right before leaving for Florida. But with all the walking and swimming I did...well...I need another pedicure.

I didn't do any running in Florida...it was too hot...we were too busy, etc. etc. But I did a ton of walking...like all day around the parks. So I don' t feel like I've lost any ground in the fitness department.

HOWEVER, I'm not sure how much running I'll get done this week. Today I rammed my toe into the wall...by accident of course. I don't think it's broken. But it is pretty bruised. And it hurts like hell. Maybe tomorrow it will be better. Look for an updated photo.

Lost Shoe

2006-04-14T19:08:00.000-07:00

My mommy lost my shoe today. She was cruising around this lake...for about 45 minutes, and I was really getting tired of sitting there. She was ignoring my fusses, so I decided to kick off my shoe to get her attention. It didn't work...she just kept running. So if you see this adorable pink shoe, please return it to my mommy.

Oh well

2006-04-12T19:21:00.000-07:00

I did not run today...but I did eat chocolate!

stroller running

2006-04-10T20:55:00.000-07:00

Today I didn't want to run...I had so many other things I need to do....but I decided to make running a priority also.

How could I not run? It was going to be 70 degrees! Not in the morning when the boys were gone and I could run with Ella in the stroller...but it was over 50...nice temps for running.

I'm not sure how far I ran, but I went around a local lake. Lots of short steep hills. I ran for over 45 minutes. It felt good. So glad I did it.

A day off...already

2006-04-08T19:41:00.000-07:00

"During the hard training phase never be afraid to take a day off. If your legs are feeling unduly stiff and sore, rest; if you are at all sluggish, rest; in fact, if in doubt, rest."Bruce Fordyce

Due to stiff, sore legs from yesterday's 6 miler, and a complete lack of sleep last night, today, I rested. Okay...with my 3 kids, I certainly didn't rest...but I didn't run either.

Motivation: Marathon

2006-04-07T20:15:00.000-07:00

Nothing like a race to get me on track with my workouts.

I have officially registered for the Nike Women's Marathon. I figure if I'm going to torture myself for the 4th time, I might as well get a Tiffany necklace out of it.

Anyone even remotely interested in running this on October 22nd should register right away here. The half marathon is already full, so I'm not sure how much longer before the full marathon reaches registration capacity.

They ask in the registration what you're running for. I wrote 1. Chocolate, 2. Time together with long distance friends, 3. Loss of pregnancy pounds. My sister wrote that she was running for her Nagging Sister.

So what are you running or working out for?

And by the way, I EXPECT those of you who registered (Lanette, Gayle, Dana, Jaye) to post at LEAST once a week reporting where you are in your training. Lets use this forum to encourage each other!!!

Today, I ran 6 miles on the treadmill. Yippee!!!!!!!!

Moving on Up

2006-03-12T17:37:00.000-08:00

Again on Saturday, I managed to get all the munchkins together so that I could run at the gym. Ella slept the whole time, Max cried in the beginning, refused to take off his jacket, but eventually settled in and played (still refusing to remove his coat), and Cameron cried when we had to leave!

When running on the treadmill I start out REALLY slow. I ran for 2 miles...in 20 minutes. I walked for less than 2 minutes. And then ran for 2 more miles in 16 minutes.

4 miles total...YEAH!

Anyone else picking up the pace? Especially those of you on the East coast with 70 degree weather this weekend???

Back in Action

2006-03-10T12:26:00.000-08:00

Ella turned 3 months...and now I can actually go to the gym to workout....YEAH!!!! Except that since she's an infant, I have to call to make an appointment to have her in the childcare area. There aren't always a lot of slots open, so I actually have to plan in advance, which can be good and bad.

Wednesday they had a 6 PM opening. This was cutting it close to dinner, but I needed to do it. It was a huge hassle trying to get dinner cooked, eaten and all 3 kids out the door on time, but we did it. I was exhausted, and it almost wasn't worth the trouble, but being on that treadmill, knowing that shorts season is almost upon us, well...it was worth it.

I ran 3 miles, with just a short walk half way between. Not far, but a start.

And today, as I was walking around the Mall of America, I managed to curb my craving for the Cinnabon treats and the Caribou coffee muffins. I had a yogurt and fruit instead...yeah for me.

But then I came home and had cookies for lunch.

I have an appt for the gym at 4 PM, but it's such a nice day...almost 50 degrees and sunny, that I might have to cancel so that I can take my kids to the park. That's more important right now. (We'll see how they are when they awaken from their naps).

Happy running!!!!

lift weights

2006-03-04T05:53:00.000-08:00

I haven't been doing anything but running after kids lately. Ella turns 3 months on Monday, which means she can go to the gym nursery. But she's sick with RSV, so I'll have a to wait a little bit before I jump into an exercise routine.

In the meantime, here's an article about weightlifting decreasing stomach fat in women.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060304/ap_on_he_me/fitness_weightlifting_women

Every little bit

2006-02-14T13:56:00.000-08:00

I haven't run since last Friday. My husband was out of town all weekend, and it took all my energy just to keep up with the kids.

So here it is, Tuesday, and after spending the morning at the Children's Museum, we all took naps. Thanks to Cameron slamming some doors, Max woke from his nap earlier than I would have liked.

In order to kill time before Melvin comes home, I turned to the On Demand station to see what was on. There I found a fitness station, that has short 10 minute workouts we could choose from. Since Max and Cameron were with me, I decided to skip over the Exotic Dancing workout.

With Max discovering that my stomach makes a good chair when I'm lying on the ground, I managed to finish an abs workout. And stepping all over the legos as I did it, I also completed a buns workout.

Only 20 minutes total...but better than nothing.

Now bring on that Valentine's Chocolate!!!

Snow Snow and more snow

2006-02-12T19:37:00.000-08:00

To my mom, Jaye and all others out of the East Coast,

I'm sure shoveling out of 20 inches of snow will beat any workout I do this week!!!! Just think of the calories you'll be burning.

Funky Friday

2006-02-10T17:48:00.000-08:00

Today I had the Friday Funks. I'm not sure why I keep having this lately. Most people have the Monday Blues...but my depression comes on Fridays. I think it's probably a combination of a lack of sleep, a lack of completion of anything around my house, and knowing that nothing will change the next day. Last Friday it hit me so hard, that I took 2 naps that day and still went to bed at 9:30. And no matter how much coffee I drink, I can't seem to shake the sleepiness and snap out of it.

So today when I woke up with the funk, I decided that after I dropped off the boys, instead of sleeping, I'd try to accomplish something (laundry, sending cards, cleaning the kitchen, etc.), and maybe that would help.

But instead I thought about this fitness blog. Deciding that I couldn't just write an excuse for not running every day, and that even though Ella was asleep in her carseat and could wake up any moment, even though I was tired as could be, and even though I had no TV set up yet to watch to distract me on my treadmill, I decided to go ahead and run.

I walked .25, ran 3 miles (with a VERY brief water break halfway through) and walked a final .25. It was slow...but steady. (and Ella slept the entire time)

And I must say, running brought me out of my funk. I was happy and alert the rest of the day (and only took my usual one nap).

So what about the rest of you...did you do anything physical today???

Sign Up Now

2006-02-08T11:49:00.000-08:00

I discovered that I can actually run this blog as a "Team Blog" where other people who have been invited can post information, pictures, articles, etc...not just comments. If you'd like to be a part of this team, let me know your e-mail address and as the administrator of the blog, I'll send you an invitation.

Running around

2006-02-07T20:52:00.000-08:00

I did not run today...not officially... not on a treadmill. But I did run around Club Just Jump chasing my 1 1/2 year old Max, forcing him up the inflatables despite his protests so he could experience the joy of the fall on the other slide. He did like the down part, just not the up part.

My arms and legs are a little sore from yesterday, but not as bad as I thought. I'm not sure when I'm going to be able to run again. Maybe tomorrow or Thursday, when the kids are in bed. Or maybe when I'm in bed...does dream running count?

Introduction

2006-02-06T20:47:00.000-08:00

I am a mother...a wife....a teacher...a student...a child of God....a runner.

My very best friend in the entire world lives 1000 miles away from me. She's my motivator; the one who got me to run marathons in the first place. But with her so far away, she's not here to pull me out the door and onto the streets, running along the canal, running downtown Princeton, running from WaWa. But that's my fault, I moved away.

So to help jumpstart my fitness, I've started this blog. I'll be using it to post my fitness stories and log my running progress. And I hope you do the same.

Today is 2 months since I gave birth to my beautiful baby girl, so I thought it would be a good time to get back on a fitness routine. I went to the gym and on the treadmill I logged in a little over 3 miles...
Walked .25
Ran 1.5
Walked .25
Ran 1.25
Walked .25
It felt good. I went REALLY slow, and worked up to where my sister starts (8 minute miles), but it's a beginning. Because I had some technical difficulties when I paused to get a drink of water, I have no idea how long it took me. We'll just say: A LONG TIME!!!!

And then I came home and ate 4 creme filled cookies!!!! Hey...it's why I run!!!

I encourage others of you to join me in commenting on what you did today so we can start a running/fitness support group. We can motivate each other and who knows, maybe one day we'll find ourselves running together in a marathon...with a box of chocolates waiting for us at the end.

Introduction

2006-01-13T13:51:00.000-08:00