Home bound
Tired of running town to town
Tired of my heart turned upside down
Now my life's a smile not a frown . . .
You got my soul singing my soul singing . . . from Soul Singing by The Black Crowes
Yesterday I ran my long run. No big deal and nothing really blog worthy about that fact. Last few years I've been doing a long run about every week of the year except in the summer months then maybe it was one every few weeks. This past fall though I started doing the 3 hour run sometimes twice a week and well, that just didn't work out so well for me. Not saying it wouldn't work for some people but for this late-to-discover-running-thirty-eight-year-old-mother-of-two-who-once-shattered-her-pelvis-and-still-a-bit-crooked it just didn't pan out.
But I do so love the 3 hour run. It is what gets my "soul singing".
Okay, not totally true. I really, really hate the first hour of the 3 hour run. I will procrastinate the heck out of starting it and then for the first seven miles I think about not doing it, cutting it short and sometimes just calling this whole running thing quits. I obsess during those early miles about every little thing: I might be too cold, this or that hurts, I am running too slow, I am tired, my outfit is all wrong, the hills are, somehow, steeper today than they were last week, I hate all my ipod music, and nothing feels quite right. But then I am at Walgreens and run in, pee, have Gu, some water from their fountain and I return to the sidewalk feeling better than when I started and now with a "can do!" attitude. For that second hour I run a little too fast and only worry a little about how much that is going to hurt me in the final hour.
Usually in that second hour I stop to buy Gatorade and the man behind the counter at the gas station on Johnson Ferry and Roswell Road alternately will either call me crazy, tell me I am beautiful or suggest that I should run to his house in Lawerenceville (which according to him is 24 miles from the store)and be his wife. On days when I look a little miserable he offers me a ride to his house in Lawerenceville. I don't know his name and he doesn't know mine but for once a week for over the past two years he has been a staple of my 21 mile weekly run.
By the end of the second hour or beginning of the third I usually have a low point. Sometimes, when I don't have it, I worry. I worry because that means catastrophe could be just around the corner. Like earlier this year when in the middle of mile 20 my ankle started hurting and it took me over 20 minutes to limp the final mile home. Agony.
So there is a little bit of comfort when the discomfort comes. Sure I have a bit of a pity party when it arrives but then I get "done" with myself and dig in. I know the best is about to come once I climb out of the valley of darkness. I know this is all self created but getting to triumph over adversity once a week really does help me deal with everything else that comes my way in the rest of my life. So yeah, basically, the long run helps me cope. Once upon a time Ritalin was the drug that made me right; now running is that drug. But that is a boring story for another time.
I love arriving at mile 17. Four miles to go. And now, it is mostly downhill until the final mile and half and at that point I won't care about running up a hill or three. It is always (unless catastrophe strikes) in the those final 30 so minutes that my soul starts its song. Sure I am spent, my hips a little achy, my hamstrings beyond annoyed with me and it would be completely impossible for me to make a sudden movement right or left but it is like my body is locked into running and it isn't going to stop until I get home. I love everything and I am so freaking happy! And it is so funny because at this point I am running on the same road I ran out on and only a few hours earlier I really, really hated this road and everything in the world. Funny how much your perspective can change on a three hour tour.
And always, always-- no matter if it is my regular 21 or I went crazy and ran 25 miles-- I run as hard and fast as I can manage up the final hill to my house. And, I will admit, many times to throwing up my arms and inwardly, okay sometimes outwardly, cheering for myself. And nearly every time as I get to my house I think about cartwheeling across my lawn to my front door. But, again, I am not too sure about my coordination for any movement other than running. So of course, I just slow down and walk happily into my house. But the cartwheels, or if I am really ambitious, the aerials? In my mind I did them. That is how I feel. And I guess if you have never cartwheeled or done an aerial or a flip then you just don't know how awesome and cool that feeling is: that spinning, for a split second, sideways, upside down and all round through the world feeling. That is how I feel after a long run.
But now I am sad.
The major artery that makes my perfect 21 mile run possible is closed. They are taking the bridge out on Sewell Mill Road. It will be out until June. They have a detour but if I follow it puts my run over 22 and I will have to run along Roswell Road. And that means I will have to switch sides just so I can be on the sidewalk to get to Old Canton (which a small portion of right there doesn't have sidewalk). That's no good. Never mind that is a just an ugly stretch to have to run along. Plus, I really like running down Providence Rd and Bill Murdock Rd and past the neighborhood I grew up in before I moved to Roswell. I always have a new memory from when I was little pop in my head. It is a nice little surprise and a great diversion.
So I've been searching for a new route. I tried one out yesterday. And it was too long--just over 23 miles. I was thinking though if it worked out I could just do it every 2 weeks and do a 16 mile run on the week in between.
The route took me from my house in East Cobb to Historic Roswell and back. But the Roswell stretch of Shallowford Road has no sidewalk and the soft shoulder is scary. Too many big trucks never mind the big hills. The hills though would be find if I had sidewalk. But running up that big of hill and having to look at the ground so I don't twist my ankle and fall into incoming traffic is just too stressful. Then the coming back along highway 92 is just sucky. 92 is always a wind tunnel. So this route is, sadly, no good.
For me a good running route-- from my house-- will be side walked and it needs to be a big loop that forces me to do the run (if I have to run past my house or have the opportunity to cut it short I probably will.) It also needs to have places I can stop to pee and get water. I don't like having to carry stuff and this is the suburbs; I can't just pee in someone's front yard. But those are just the basics. Ideally a good route will be somewhat scenic. Running along a 4 lane road past strip malls is not scenic in my opinion.
So I am still searching. I haven't looked into a route that will take me out towards Marietta or Woodstock so that could be an option. . .
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Monday, January 18, 2010
Number One Reason NOT to Drink the Coffee at My Parent's House
Warning:
Possible offensive or at the very least crude content that might leave some scarred for life (especially if you have actually drank coffee at my parent's house.)
A week and half ago Atlanta got hit with a "snow storm". The quote marks are for the readers who live in areas where they actually have snow storms with snow. (I wouldn't want to offend anyone having just started back blogging and all.) But those who have not ever experienced a southern snow you need to know that in Atlanta any amount of snow, no matter how little, is reason for the world to shut down and for people to forget all driving skills. This year, though the snow accumulation was laughable, there really was ice on the roads and it made for some pretty scary driving over in my parts.
Exhibit A: Carmella and Beau playing the street across from my house. Complete sheet of ice.
Possible offensive or at the very least crude content that might leave some scarred for life (especially if you have actually drank coffee at my parent's house.)
A week and half ago Atlanta got hit with a "snow storm". The quote marks are for the readers who live in areas where they actually have snow storms with snow. (I wouldn't want to offend anyone having just started back blogging and all.) But those who have not ever experienced a southern snow you need to know that in Atlanta any amount of snow, no matter how little, is reason for the world to shut down and for people to forget all driving skills. This year, though the snow accumulation was laughable, there really was ice on the roads and it made for some pretty scary driving over in my parts.
Exhibit A: Carmella and Beau playing the street across from my house. Complete sheet of ice.
As the member of a family where it is genetically ingrained that you must attempt to drive in all adverse conditions no matter how ill advised I drove over to my Mom's to pick her up so we could run at the Leita Thompson trail. The Leita trail is about 2 miles from her house and 7 miles from my house. I had contemplated running to the Leita but it did seem a little crazy to run 14 miles (round trip) just so I could run a few loops on the soft, groomed, snow covered Leita trails (longest loop is 2.5 miles and the max I can stand to run that loop is 4 times, usually I'm just good for 2 though). Plus, as I discovered the next day when I did run from my house that the sidewalks were very treacherous. So driving actually proved a better choice. 
I know many people chose to take the "snow" day off from workouts or opted to go to the gym as the temps were in the single digits but we so rarely get "snow" that I just couldn't pass up the opportunity to run in it. Who knows when Frosty is gonna show again. Gotta run and have some fun before it all melts away, right?
Snow, for us Southerners is a precious novelty. I feel like I am in a fairy tale running through the snow. Silly, I know, but don't forget: I've lived here my whole life and have been logging 50+ miles a week on the same roads for over 4 years now. Snow is a free change of scenery.
Leita trail about a mile in (clockwise):
Me and Lola heading out:
Frozen pond at the midway point on the trail:
Mom and Lola:
Mom and I had a lovely run and on the way back to her house I asked her if she had any coffee. I was out and didn't feel like stopping at the store. She only had whole beans. Oh, never mind I said, I don't have a grinder. . .
Oh, she said, I have a back up coffee maker with a grinder. You can have it. (Score!)
I know you are thinking, "back up coffee maker"? Okay, so there are 4 important things to know here about my parents:
1. They are very serious about their coffee. Annoyingly serious. Growing up 2 things we were never out of were coffee and wine.
2. My dad LOVES to buy kitchen appliances and gadgets.
3. They actually have another "back up coffee maker".
4. Yes, this makes it damn near impossible to ever buy my parents gifts. Except wine. You can, apparently, never have too much wine.
Said "back up coffee maker" that I scored:
After a lesson from her how to make a great cup of coffee, I left Mom's happy from my run and with a bag of coffee beans, a new coffee maker, a waffle iron, some beer, some potatoes, and some ketchup. (Yeah, so I remembered there were a few other things I needed to get at the store.)
I tell you what.
The shopping at my parents is good! And cheap. (Hello free! Pleased to meet you!) However, it does require some patience; like how I am waiting for them to decide that they don't really want that big flat screen that they just bought or for mom to figure out already that the wardrobe in their room really isn't the right piece for them. . .
Ryan was really excited about our new coffee maker too; especially once he figured out he could program it. And while I love that I can wake up and have coffee hot, ready and waiting--the thing sounds like the space shuttle taking off in my kitchen and serves dually as an alarm clock. The not so good part about that is at 5:30 am when I don't need to get up until 6 am. Why 5:30 am? Because Ryan ambitiously thinks he is going to be ready and leaving the house before 6 am. But typically at 5:30 am I am in the process of smacking him for the 3rd time in 27 minutes to get up and turn off the f-ing snooze.
Ryan also has been a little frustrated by the coffee but for a different reason. He thinks the coffee is weak. Therefore, I am of the belief that he is just not adding enough beans but he isn't convinced. When he found out today that my mom was coming over because my sister was coming over to do my hair he told me to ask her again how to make a "great cup of coffee." But then he changed his mind and said, never mind, ask your sister. Then he when out to do boy stuff since there was going to be a bunch of women coloring their hair here.
I totally had forgotten the story until, in mid foil and in all seriousness, I asked my sister how to make a great cup of coffee. I was thinking Ryan had told me to ask her because she and Wes have a similar coffee maker (also a previous back up coffee maker's of my parents.) But when she busted out laughing and commented that she hadn't ever told the story to mom; I suddenly remembered.
And so now we have reached the part of my story where an alternate title for this post has occurred to me: Reason #4,602 Why Not to Live in Your Parents House After College.
Pookie was about 24, doing the moved-back-into-Mom-and-Dad's-house-what-am-I-going-to-do-after-college bit. Now, first you must understand that my parents do not by any means have a small house but even though it is a larger house you are able to hear everything going on in the kitchen no matter where you are in the house. You actually come to believe, if you are in another area of the house, that once people enter my parent's kitchen they begin screaming at each other to converse. It is that clear and that loud. Pookie's bedroom at the time was at the farthest upper most point from the kitchen and one morning, surely fresh in from a hard night of partying most clearly overheard this unfortunate exchange between my parents:
Mom: Beau! This coffee is amazing! What did you do to it?
Dad: I put my dick in it.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Bad Race Gone Happy
So behind here, I know . . .
Last weekend I ran a 10k and I totally bombed it.
But I am okay about it. I knew I would bomb it. I had some great workouts last week. Most mentionable I ran 20 miles at Kennesaw Mountain (that's off road!) with Ms. sub 3 hour marathoner Kate Brun (good luck at Country Music Marathon! You will do awesome!)
I LOVE running with her. She is everything I am not--most notably, positive. Running with her pushes me to not only run faster and stay honest but also stay positive. She even gave me a hat that says "Run Happy".
Here I am on our run around 17-18 miles--"running happy."
Last week ended up being a big week considering it was less than 3 weeks from GA ING. I say big week for me because I know there are many runners out there who put in a lot more miles than I. On Friday I was at 53 miles for the week and my legs were dead; swollen even.
I know what you are hearing is excuses--I hate them too. But a smarter runner than I would have said--Wow! I am toast this week. I am in no shape to race.
But I had planned to race something on Saturday.
Never one with the best laid plans, am I?
A few weeks ago I was having beers with my good friend Dee Dee. She told me I should do "this 10k" by her house--"you could totally win," she added, dangling the carrot. Whatever I thought. I never win (that 5k was a total fluke.)
But still, the line? It was baited and I am a dumb fish.
My original plan was to run the Sweetwater 5k that day and drink copious amounts of beer at the festival after wards (that part of the plan I did adhere to).
But I never got around to registering and I when I tried online registration it had been closed. I didn't want to worry about driving downtown and not getting a number. Dee called me Friday afternoon and reminded me about the 10k and offered to go sign me up. So I was on board--all the way though nay saying the sense of me racing in my condition.
While we were on the phone--discussing the next day's plans-- we stalked last year's results together. Winning woman was 44:xx.
I've run several 10k's(though I've only run about 8 10k's in my life) in the 44xx range and even one sub 44. But, as I told Dee, I was not in the shape to run 44 tomorrow. I kinda wondered if sub 48 was even in the cards.
I am not kidding; my legs were in bad shape. Too much mileage not enough recovery. I had run--since the Ga marathon and including the marathon--almost 150 miles in 2 1/2 weeks. That is a lot for me--at least after a marathon.
Then I looked at Dee's time from last year: 1:02 xx. What's that about I asked her? That is about the same pace you run a half marathon at. You should definitely be sub 1 hour 10k, I told her. She responded with "I just run my little pace for everything"
I told her she should try to be faster.
She told me she didn't really care.
I, of course, did not believe her.
First, let me say this about Dee. She is beautiful. All the boys drool for her. Wait, I know this blog is "useless without pictures" so here is an oldie but goodie of me and Dee:
Strangely, the only pictures I have of her and I we are wearing costumes. She is, if nothing else, a kindred spirit.
But sadly, she is not as much the runner as I am but is rather lady-who-is-tennis-who-sometimes-runs-a-half-marathon--occasionally-a-10k-just because she can (with very little training).
I woke up race morning and the legs were still not good. Trying to be Positive Nat instead of Negative Nat I stuck with my plan. I got to the start early and had tons of time to warm up. I ran, stopped and stretched and ran and stretched some more. My left calf was not with the program. I kept thinking if I could it warm it up really good I would be okay and could nail some hard paces. But the reality of it was I just wasn't feeling it. I knew it but I go in with the attitude of you don't know until you try. Fact of the matter is though; that sometimes you do know. You just hope you are wrong--even when you know you are right.
I met up with Dee before the race and she instructed me to "get in front." I did but then I got intimidated by a few girls who were much faster looking than I that were also toeing the front line. So I stepped a row back.
Off we went and after a bit I thought, hmm I feel pretty good. This might be my day after all. . . Then I checked my watch and saw that only 45 seconds had passed.
I tried my best to stay behind she-who looked-the-fastest-of-them-all but I did end up passing her pretty early on. I could "feel" her on my heels though and it really really really bugged me. I felt like she had picked me out and I just wanted to be left alone. I wanted no part of competition--which, of course, was because I knew I couldn't win. Who wants to compete if you know you are going to lose. You have to think you are going to win to win-- or at least have some tiny, teeny part of you that thinks that. I had no small--even microscopic-- parts of me thinking that. And as it turned out--my whole being was right on. And this is one of those times where being right was really not what I wanted . . .
About a half mile in my calves were locked and the suckage of a 10k was hard upon me.
I hit the first split in 7:05. I was fine with this time--this is a hilly 10k and I really wasn't expecting much out of me--but my calves were just getting worse and now we were starting on an uphill. I started thinking about it and decided that wow! 10k's suck and I was NOT having fun! The idea of 37+ more minutes of this agony was just not something I was up for after all. This? Was most definitely not "running happy." And me? I am about the happy (or so I keep telling myself). So when I saw the water stop I stopped and decided I would wait for Dee. I decided it would be more to run with a friend.
I waited for what felt like FOREVER but really was only a few minutes.
She saw me and was like; "What the hell?! You were doing good!".I told her I wasn't doing good and wasn't up for the fight. But I would be helping her run a PR and she would be going under the hour. She didn't seem as happy at this news as I thought she should be.
What.EVER!!! And so began my cheer leading and chatter for the next 4 and so miles. I knew I was being annoying and Dee kept saying "Really, if you are feeling it you should go on! Really."
And I would assure her I was right where I wanted to be. Running fast? Over-rated. Painful. 10k's? They suck! But she? She was doing awesome!
Do you feel like you are going to throw up a little? I would ask.
Yeah-- a little, she would admit.
And I would cheerfully tell her THAT is AWESOME! That means you are running EXACTLY how you should be!!
She looked at me like I was crazy. Or like she wanted to trip me.
See Dee? Dee runs pretty. I kept thinking she is looking too good; we should go faster. And I would try to pick up the pace and if she lagged I would slow, otherwise I would hold it and she would run faster to keep up.
At four miles--after the worst of the hills-- I told her that she had 24 minutes to run 2.2 miles to get under the hour. That she had this, I told her. And that seemed to rally her. Her miles were actually getting faster. I guess she realized that the only way to get rid of my annoying presence would be to get this race over with.
As soon as we passed the 6 mile marker I picked out a tree 50 or so feet ahead of us and told her: See that tree? (she nodded blindly) When we get to it I am going to start sprinting and you better chase me. She nodded. You see that young girl in the blue shirt, I asked. She nodded again, looking at me like I was little crazy (I am). She's going down, I told her. You are going to beat her. She nodded but didn't look like she believed me.
And then I took off; calling over my shoulder to her: "Go Dee Go Dee! Kick it!" And I saw she was chasing after me. I sprinted past girl in blue shirt and down the straight a way to the finish. I crossed just under 57 minutes and then stopped in the shoot to wait for Dee. I got yelled at to "keep moving "but I stood my ground, letting people go around me, loosing my place, and yelling for Dee.
And at 57:13 she zoomed in, one second before girl in blue shirt, for a new pr and a 5 minute improvement over last year's time on the same course.
After she caught her breath she thanked me; saying she "never would have run that fast" on her own (which, of course isn't true.) Then said she could not believe I talked the WHOLE time.
So yeah, MY race sucked but my race was great because I got to watch a good friend have great success and that, for me, last Saturday, was what running happy meant.
But by golly, I sure hope that tomorrow--when I attempt a 5k and 10k back to back double-- that running happy means fast! I hope. . .
If not, I will find a way to the happy, some how.
Good luck to all my racing friends this weekend--cyclists, triathletes, and runners alike. May you all have happy races.
Last weekend I ran a 10k and I totally bombed it.
But I am okay about it. I knew I would bomb it. I had some great workouts last week. Most mentionable I ran 20 miles at Kennesaw Mountain (that's off road!) with Ms. sub 3 hour marathoner Kate Brun (good luck at Country Music Marathon! You will do awesome!)
I LOVE running with her. She is everything I am not--most notably, positive. Running with her pushes me to not only run faster and stay honest but also stay positive. She even gave me a hat that says "Run Happy".
Here I am on our run around 17-18 miles--"running happy."
Last week ended up being a big week considering it was less than 3 weeks from GA ING. I say big week for me because I know there are many runners out there who put in a lot more miles than I. On Friday I was at 53 miles for the week and my legs were dead; swollen even.
I know what you are hearing is excuses--I hate them too. But a smarter runner than I would have said--Wow! I am toast this week. I am in no shape to race.
But I had planned to race something on Saturday.
Never one with the best laid plans, am I?
A few weeks ago I was having beers with my good friend Dee Dee. She told me I should do "this 10k" by her house--"you could totally win," she added, dangling the carrot. Whatever I thought. I never win (that 5k was a total fluke.)
But still, the line? It was baited and I am a dumb fish.
My original plan was to run the Sweetwater 5k that day and drink copious amounts of beer at the festival after wards (that part of the plan I did adhere to).
But I never got around to registering and I when I tried online registration it had been closed. I didn't want to worry about driving downtown and not getting a number. Dee called me Friday afternoon and reminded me about the 10k and offered to go sign me up. So I was on board--all the way though nay saying the sense of me racing in my condition.While we were on the phone--discussing the next day's plans-- we stalked last year's results together. Winning woman was 44:xx.
I've run several 10k's(though I've only run about 8 10k's in my life) in the 44xx range and even one sub 44. But, as I told Dee, I was not in the shape to run 44 tomorrow. I kinda wondered if sub 48 was even in the cards.
I am not kidding; my legs were in bad shape. Too much mileage not enough recovery. I had run--since the Ga marathon and including the marathon--almost 150 miles in 2 1/2 weeks. That is a lot for me--at least after a marathon.
Then I looked at Dee's time from last year: 1:02 xx. What's that about I asked her? That is about the same pace you run a half marathon at. You should definitely be sub 1 hour 10k, I told her. She responded with "I just run my little pace for everything"
I told her she should try to be faster.
She told me she didn't really care.
I, of course, did not believe her.
First, let me say this about Dee. She is beautiful. All the boys drool for her. Wait, I know this blog is "useless without pictures" so here is an oldie but goodie of me and Dee:
Strangely, the only pictures I have of her and I we are wearing costumes. She is, if nothing else, a kindred spirit. But sadly, she is not as much the runner as I am but is rather lady-who-is-tennis-who-sometimes-runs-a-half-marathon--occasionally-a-10k-just because she can (with very little training).
I woke up race morning and the legs were still not good. Trying to be Positive Nat instead of Negative Nat I stuck with my plan. I got to the start early and had tons of time to warm up. I ran, stopped and stretched and ran and stretched some more. My left calf was not with the program. I kept thinking if I could it warm it up really good I would be okay and could nail some hard paces. But the reality of it was I just wasn't feeling it. I knew it but I go in with the attitude of you don't know until you try. Fact of the matter is though; that sometimes you do know. You just hope you are wrong--even when you know you are right.
I met up with Dee before the race and she instructed me to "get in front." I did but then I got intimidated by a few girls who were much faster looking than I that were also toeing the front line. So I stepped a row back.
Off we went and after a bit I thought, hmm I feel pretty good. This might be my day after all. . . Then I checked my watch and saw that only 45 seconds had passed.
I tried my best to stay behind she-who looked-the-fastest-of-them-all but I did end up passing her pretty early on. I could "feel" her on my heels though and it really really really bugged me. I felt like she had picked me out and I just wanted to be left alone. I wanted no part of competition--which, of course, was because I knew I couldn't win. Who wants to compete if you know you are going to lose. You have to think you are going to win to win-- or at least have some tiny, teeny part of you that thinks that. I had no small--even microscopic-- parts of me thinking that. And as it turned out--my whole being was right on. And this is one of those times where being right was really not what I wanted . . .
About a half mile in my calves were locked and the suckage of a 10k was hard upon me.
I hit the first split in 7:05. I was fine with this time--this is a hilly 10k and I really wasn't expecting much out of me--but my calves were just getting worse and now we were starting on an uphill. I started thinking about it and decided that wow! 10k's suck and I was NOT having fun! The idea of 37+ more minutes of this agony was just not something I was up for after all. This? Was most definitely not "running happy." And me? I am about the happy (or so I keep telling myself). So when I saw the water stop I stopped and decided I would wait for Dee. I decided it would be more to run with a friend.
I waited for what felt like FOREVER but really was only a few minutes.
She saw me and was like; "What the hell?! You were doing good!".I told her I wasn't doing good and wasn't up for the fight. But I would be helping her run a PR and she would be going under the hour. She didn't seem as happy at this news as I thought she should be.
What.EVER!!! And so began my cheer leading and chatter for the next 4 and so miles. I knew I was being annoying and Dee kept saying "Really, if you are feeling it you should go on! Really."
And I would assure her I was right where I wanted to be. Running fast? Over-rated. Painful. 10k's? They suck! But she? She was doing awesome!
Do you feel like you are going to throw up a little? I would ask.
Yeah-- a little, she would admit.
And I would cheerfully tell her THAT is AWESOME! That means you are running EXACTLY how you should be!!
She looked at me like I was crazy. Or like she wanted to trip me.
See Dee? Dee runs pretty. I kept thinking she is looking too good; we should go faster. And I would try to pick up the pace and if she lagged I would slow, otherwise I would hold it and she would run faster to keep up.
At four miles--after the worst of the hills-- I told her that she had 24 minutes to run 2.2 miles to get under the hour. That she had this, I told her. And that seemed to rally her. Her miles were actually getting faster. I guess she realized that the only way to get rid of my annoying presence would be to get this race over with.
As soon as we passed the 6 mile marker I picked out a tree 50 or so feet ahead of us and told her: See that tree? (she nodded blindly) When we get to it I am going to start sprinting and you better chase me. She nodded. You see that young girl in the blue shirt, I asked. She nodded again, looking at me like I was little crazy (I am). She's going down, I told her. You are going to beat her. She nodded but didn't look like she believed me.
And then I took off; calling over my shoulder to her: "Go Dee Go Dee! Kick it!" And I saw she was chasing after me. I sprinted past girl in blue shirt and down the straight a way to the finish. I crossed just under 57 minutes and then stopped in the shoot to wait for Dee. I got yelled at to "keep moving "but I stood my ground, letting people go around me, loosing my place, and yelling for Dee.
And at 57:13 she zoomed in, one second before girl in blue shirt, for a new pr and a 5 minute improvement over last year's time on the same course.
After she caught her breath she thanked me; saying she "never would have run that fast" on her own (which, of course isn't true.) Then said she could not believe I talked the WHOLE time.
So yeah, MY race sucked but my race was great because I got to watch a good friend have great success and that, for me, last Saturday, was what running happy meant.
But by golly, I sure hope that tomorrow--when I attempt a 5k and 10k back to back double-- that running happy means fast! I hope. . .
If not, I will find a way to the happy, some how.
Good luck to all my racing friends this weekend--cyclists, triathletes, and runners alike. May you all have happy races.
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Saturday 20: Tour de Roswell
I couldn't motivate for this run.
It was my last 20 miler before I taper for the GA ING marathon that is on March 29th. I don't have huge goals for the marathon. Sure, I'd love a pr but I am running it because I want to be one of those people that run it every year. Like those that have run the Peachtree every year except I will be way cooler than them because the ING marathon is 20 miles longer. Also, I keep hoping that eventually this will be a good marathon. Practice makes perfect, right?
I had planned to run 21 on Friday. My East Cobb loop from my house. But my calf muscles were being very uncooperative; tight, heavy, needed a rest day. It happens. I could have run through it but my Dad said he would watch the kids Saturday morning so why have an uncomfortable run if you don't have to I figured? I like running to feel good and it just wasn't feeling good for me Friday. I was bummed though because I do like to stick to my plans.
The past few weeks I have had some fantastic, near epic runs. Like I mentioned in a previous post, the running has been good. Very good. I also knew that I was pushing hard and that it wouldn't last. But i could see the taper looming so I just wanted to keep pushing as hard as could until then. But this week my body pushed back and pretty much told me to f-off Friday morning. I wasn't surprised but it did bum me out.
After last Friday's 24 mile run with Kate I ran again Saturday morning. Just a short run on treadmill before yoga but the 7:39 pace I average was pretty aggressive for me the day after a long hard run. Then I did yoga. And then I did yoga on Sunday too. Then I drank lots of beer because it snowed and that is what you do when it snows in Atlanta. I think it is like how in Key West they hunker down in the bars when a hurricane hits and drink themselves under the table.
Then Monday I decided to switch my usual 12 mile run to Wed and do my treadmill intervals instead because it was cold and windy and I knew I would get enough cold on my bike ride Tuesday. This was a mistake and I knew it would be. But nevertheless I got my treadmill intervals done. My calves were fatigued and I ended up bailing on the cool down portion of the workout and cutting out a mile and half.
Tuesday was the 47 mile bike ride to the Capitol and back. I definitely pushed too hard on the ride back. I was just thinking about what I was capable of that day not what else I had planned for the week. Also, since I've only been riding like once a month the past few months, really a 47 bike ride is a long ride for me. It is hard effort and I just forgot to think about it that way.
Wednesday I ran in the Alps on Brett's long run route. Just kidding but that is how it felt. I thought I ran on hills but apparently Woodstock is hillier than East Cobb or Roswell. I cried uncle after 11 miles. I swear the entire run felt harder than any of my 24 miles I ran last Friday. Lesson in hubris for sure.
Thursday I did an easy 6 miles on my tiny hills and then an hour of yoga. I thought that was a pretty good recovery day but I found out Friday morning it wasn't enough. So I bailed on Friday's run getting in only 3 miles for the day. It happens.
So Saturday I was gung ho and determined. But my run did not start out stellar. Again my calves were saying, no please, no running today. I thought about listening to them but then decided they needed to HTFU and I hobbled on my way. Around 6 miles they got with the program and the run was went great, easy even.
But when it was going poorly at the start I decided that I would just treat it as a run around Roswell and take pictures with my camera phone. So here is my photo journey. Sorry the photos are kinda crappy. It was cloudy, misty even for the first 2 hours, so the light was really bad. Plus, my phone sucks. Not to mention, I was running.
The road ahead. This was the start of my run when I knew it was going to hurt a little and I was trying not to be mad about it.
Goats at the end of the first mile. They are cute but boy do they stink!
I took this picture for my friend Anne and my friend Neal. Anne because I know she likes the goats and Neal because he says stuff like; "I don't think I can come to yoga on Saturday. I need to take my dad to the goat sale."
Mile 2. Starting to feel better for the moment because I get to run down a long hill. Yippy for downhills.
Stopping to cross. See the cyclists (probably Roswell Bikes group) heading out to do the North of 92 loop of the Roswell 40 (or mile high ride).
Then I didn't take pictures for a few miles because I was having the I think I am going to bail argument with myself.
But then I got to run down a big hill and then up an even longer hill and my calves gave up the ghost and got with the program. I rewarded myself with a Gu and some water at Texaco. I didn't take any pictures there either because there were lots of day laborers hanging around and they were already looking at me like I was crazy.
Canton St. Mile 6ish. Feeling great now! Bad hills are done! Finally decided that I will see this run through.
Naylor Hall on Canton Street. My friend Elizabeth grew up in this house so I always think about her and playing there whenever I run past it. Now it is a place people rent to have their weddings at.
Trail at Roswell Area Park. Trail one of two on my route.
I run here a lot when my kids have gymnastics.
Church that I like. Mile 9 or so. Blurry because I was running. I wanted a picture but I had just passed a couple with a jogging stroller and didn't want to have pass them again so I snapped it as I went by.
I hate this part of the run. I try to cut as much off as I can by running through Blessed Trinity's campus but still gotta do my time on 92. I also call it the foresake it or bake on it road or-- depending on the time of year-- the wind tunnel. It was both on Saturday.
Isn't it ugly?
This is back in the neighborhoods I run through. Miles 12, 13 and part of 14--or something like that.
Right behind me is a friend of mine from high school's old house but if I were to go down this driveway I would be standing at the end of the lake that my parent's house is on. In the summer, when I do this run and it is 90 degrees, I often think that I could just swim the 1/4 mile down lake and be done. It takes me less than 6 minutes to swim a 1/4 mile and at this point I have an hour left of my run. Even if I cut it short I still have to run almost 3 miles to get back to my parent's house where my car is parked. So sometimes I am tempted but haven't done it yet. The lake creeps me out. And besides, what would I do with my shoes?
Back out on 92 waiting on the light to change. I need to run down to the Leita Thompson park to add on some miles.
The Leita Thompson Trail.
This is picture isn't from Saturday but one of the trail from last year. The pictures I took of the trail Saturday were all too dark.
And this is--usually-- the best part of the run. I save it for last even though technically the uneven terrain and hills and turns make it the hardest part of the run. But it is the most fun part.
After I run on the trail I head back on 92 and then back towards my parent's house where they have either bought my kids McDonald's or given them too many cookies and as much Coke as they want. It will be hard to keep up with them for the rest of the day.
Just a few more miles to go. . .
I have to run down this hill and then back up to add on a few more miles so I get to 20 today.
As I start down the hill I pass my friend Shannon. I see her too late to get a picture. She is training for the ING half and the Country Music marathon. I think that she looks good.
Instantly I regret that I didn't look happier when we passed. I am in a sour mood about the hill because I should have, and usually do, run the extra miles at the Leita but the fountains were not turned on and it was getting hot so I had detour and make an extra and unplanned stop at CVS to use their fountain. Buggers! Blasted thirst.
Finally, the last mile.
This is not T-Pain's house.
Neither is this one.
But he does have a house that is off this street. I am just not sure which one it is.
Yeah! Almost done. Starting to sprint now!
Now it is taper time. Again! I can't believe it. 3 weeks until I get to do the Tour de Atlanta.
P.S. I am going to see The Pogues live tonight! Been almost 20 years since I have seen them live. So excited! They are my favorite band.
It was my last 20 miler before I taper for the GA ING marathon that is on March 29th. I don't have huge goals for the marathon. Sure, I'd love a pr but I am running it because I want to be one of those people that run it every year. Like those that have run the Peachtree every year except I will be way cooler than them because the ING marathon is 20 miles longer. Also, I keep hoping that eventually this will be a good marathon. Practice makes perfect, right?
I had planned to run 21 on Friday. My East Cobb loop from my house. But my calf muscles were being very uncooperative; tight, heavy, needed a rest day. It happens. I could have run through it but my Dad said he would watch the kids Saturday morning so why have an uncomfortable run if you don't have to I figured? I like running to feel good and it just wasn't feeling good for me Friday. I was bummed though because I do like to stick to my plans.
The past few weeks I have had some fantastic, near epic runs. Like I mentioned in a previous post, the running has been good. Very good. I also knew that I was pushing hard and that it wouldn't last. But i could see the taper looming so I just wanted to keep pushing as hard as could until then. But this week my body pushed back and pretty much told me to f-off Friday morning. I wasn't surprised but it did bum me out.
After last Friday's 24 mile run with Kate I ran again Saturday morning. Just a short run on treadmill before yoga but the 7:39 pace I average was pretty aggressive for me the day after a long hard run. Then I did yoga. And then I did yoga on Sunday too. Then I drank lots of beer because it snowed and that is what you do when it snows in Atlanta. I think it is like how in Key West they hunker down in the bars when a hurricane hits and drink themselves under the table.
Then Monday I decided to switch my usual 12 mile run to Wed and do my treadmill intervals instead because it was cold and windy and I knew I would get enough cold on my bike ride Tuesday. This was a mistake and I knew it would be. But nevertheless I got my treadmill intervals done. My calves were fatigued and I ended up bailing on the cool down portion of the workout and cutting out a mile and half.
Tuesday was the 47 mile bike ride to the Capitol and back. I definitely pushed too hard on the ride back. I was just thinking about what I was capable of that day not what else I had planned for the week. Also, since I've only been riding like once a month the past few months, really a 47 bike ride is a long ride for me. It is hard effort and I just forgot to think about it that way.
Wednesday I ran in the Alps on Brett's long run route. Just kidding but that is how it felt. I thought I ran on hills but apparently Woodstock is hillier than East Cobb or Roswell. I cried uncle after 11 miles. I swear the entire run felt harder than any of my 24 miles I ran last Friday. Lesson in hubris for sure.
Thursday I did an easy 6 miles on my tiny hills and then an hour of yoga. I thought that was a pretty good recovery day but I found out Friday morning it wasn't enough. So I bailed on Friday's run getting in only 3 miles for the day. It happens.
So Saturday I was gung ho and determined. But my run did not start out stellar. Again my calves were saying, no please, no running today. I thought about listening to them but then decided they needed to HTFU and I hobbled on my way. Around 6 miles they got with the program and the run was went great, easy even.
But when it was going poorly at the start I decided that I would just treat it as a run around Roswell and take pictures with my camera phone. So here is my photo journey. Sorry the photos are kinda crappy. It was cloudy, misty even for the first 2 hours, so the light was really bad. Plus, my phone sucks. Not to mention, I was running.
The road ahead. This was the start of my run when I knew it was going to hurt a little and I was trying not to be mad about it.
Goats at the end of the first mile. They are cute but boy do they stink!
I took this picture for my friend Anne and my friend Neal. Anne because I know she likes the goats and Neal because he says stuff like; "I don't think I can come to yoga on Saturday. I need to take my dad to the goat sale."Mile 2. Starting to feel better for the moment because I get to run down a long hill. Yippy for downhills.
Stopping to cross. See the cyclists (probably Roswell Bikes group) heading out to do the North of 92 loop of the Roswell 40 (or mile high ride).
Then I didn't take pictures for a few miles because I was having the I think I am going to bail argument with myself.
But then I got to run down a big hill and then up an even longer hill and my calves gave up the ghost and got with the program. I rewarded myself with a Gu and some water at Texaco. I didn't take any pictures there either because there were lots of day laborers hanging around and they were already looking at me like I was crazy.
Canton St. Mile 6ish. Feeling great now! Bad hills are done! Finally decided that I will see this run through.
Naylor Hall on Canton Street. My friend Elizabeth grew up in this house so I always think about her and playing there whenever I run past it. Now it is a place people rent to have their weddings at.
Trail at Roswell Area Park. Trail one of two on my route.
I run here a lot when my kids have gymnastics.Church that I like. Mile 9 or so. Blurry because I was running. I wanted a picture but I had just passed a couple with a jogging stroller and didn't want to have pass them again so I snapped it as I went by.
I hate this part of the run. I try to cut as much off as I can by running through Blessed Trinity's campus but still gotta do my time on 92. I also call it the foresake it or bake on it road or-- depending on the time of year-- the wind tunnel. It was both on Saturday.
Isn't it ugly?
This is back in the neighborhoods I run through. Miles 12, 13 and part of 14--or something like that.
Right behind me is a friend of mine from high school's old house but if I were to go down this driveway I would be standing at the end of the lake that my parent's house is on. In the summer, when I do this run and it is 90 degrees, I often think that I could just swim the 1/4 mile down lake and be done. It takes me less than 6 minutes to swim a 1/4 mile and at this point I have an hour left of my run. Even if I cut it short I still have to run almost 3 miles to get back to my parent's house where my car is parked. So sometimes I am tempted but haven't done it yet. The lake creeps me out. And besides, what would I do with my shoes?
Back out on 92 waiting on the light to change. I need to run down to the Leita Thompson park to add on some miles.
The Leita Thompson Trail.
This is picture isn't from Saturday but one of the trail from last year. The pictures I took of the trail Saturday were all too dark.And this is--usually-- the best part of the run. I save it for last even though technically the uneven terrain and hills and turns make it the hardest part of the run. But it is the most fun part.
After I run on the trail I head back on 92 and then back towards my parent's house where they have either bought my kids McDonald's or given them too many cookies and as much Coke as they want. It will be hard to keep up with them for the rest of the day.
Just a few more miles to go. . .
I have to run down this hill and then back up to add on a few more miles so I get to 20 today.
As I start down the hill I pass my friend Shannon. I see her too late to get a picture. She is training for the ING half and the Country Music marathon. I think that she looks good.
Instantly I regret that I didn't look happier when we passed. I am in a sour mood about the hill because I should have, and usually do, run the extra miles at the Leita but the fountains were not turned on and it was getting hot so I had detour and make an extra and unplanned stop at CVS to use their fountain. Buggers! Blasted thirst.
Finally, the last mile.
This is not T-Pain's house.
Neither is this one.
But he does have a house that is off this street. I am just not sure which one it is. Yeah! Almost done. Starting to sprint now!
Now it is taper time. Again! I can't believe it. 3 weeks until I get to do the Tour de Atlanta.
P.S. I am going to see The Pogues live tonight! Been almost 20 years since I have seen them live. So excited! They are my favorite band.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
It is over! Christmas is over!
So why haven't you taken the tree down yet? Beau keeps asking.
He has been saying it over and over and nagging me about getting Christmas gone since the 26th.
And here it is the 31st and I am ushering out the old to bring in the new. But when I gave Beau the boxes for his tree and ornaments (yes both kids have their own Christmas trees in their rooms. That way they leave mine alone) he asked why? Why do I have to pack up my tree?
And then was further dismayed, upon coming downstairs, that I have un-Christmas-ed the whole house. Even big fat blow up Santa that he has spent the last month stabbing with his sword and deflating is packed up.
It is over. It is really over.
Thank you baby Jesus. And heck no. I am not waiting until the Ephiphany to take my tree down. I am not Catholic but am a born and raised Southerner and my family says tree gone by New Year day; bad luck to bring last year into the New Year, or so I've heard it said.
Yeah, I don't know if I'll be having black eyed peas (with money in 'em) and collards tomorrow so I might be screwed anyway. Eh, nothing new there.
We did have a great Christmas!
And I have included some pictures from Christmas day.
Yes, Santa brought the kids a trampoline. And yes, Ryan and I are both really excited about this since neither Bubbles and Poppy or Pop and Lala let us one when we were kids. It has been great fun already!
But no I am not really ready for 2009.
Nor do I really want to look back and carefully assess all the 2008 foibles and follies.
I gotta say, it has been a rough few years for us and while I think maybe the rain has stopped, the fog lifted and the clouds are beginning to part and let the sun shine back into our lives it is still hard for me to leap into the new year with unbridled optimism. Having been so beaten down I, if nothing else, am a bit more cautious and dare I say it lest that too comes back to bite me in the ass, I might even be a teeny tiny bit wiser. So with baby steps I am inching into 2009, looking left, looking right, left again and back over my shoulder before I move a single damn inch. Definitely no leaping.
And no Carrie, per your phone call this morning; I do NOT have a New Year baby costume complete with diaper, 2009 sash and Champagne glass pasties.
If only I did though . . .
Hey! Maybe that should be my New Year resolution: To find an apropos costume for all holidays and festive occasions. Right, wait let me be more specific: A slutty, stripper like costume for all holidays and festive occasions.
Switching to the running gear it looks like it is going to be a big fat ready set go for me on January 17, 2009 at the Museum of Aviation marathon. I have successfully bumped back up my mileage in December and finished the month out at 215 miles-- complete with 2 21 milers and yesterday I ran a spectacular 24 miler. I even ran 63 miles last week and avoided injury. So it is yet again taper time and I will be keeping my fingers crossed and saying my prayers that maybe in 2009 I will finally run that 3:30 marathon that has alluded me in 2007 and 2008.
Have a safe and happy New Year everyone!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
On the Vomit Line
I know I have been remiss about updating my blog. 
Partly to blame is my darn Face book addiction but mostly because Christmas has had me consumed. But I finished my shopping today! So hopefully I will have more time to update tomorrow or this weekend.
On the running front I am running my first ever 5k this weekend. I am very excited about it and keeping telling myself that I am only going to feel terrible for about 22 minutes--hopefully less. I think I should be able to deal with that since I sucked it up for six hours in the South Carolina half iron man.
See, I knew sticking it out in that race would help me some how. Now I just ask myself when feeling bad in a race/workout, "Do I feel worse than I felt at SC Half?" No?
Then I'm good! Carry on!
My previous feeling worse bench marks were my 42 hr labor with Carmella, when I broke my pelvis and the near heat stroke I suffered in Ga ING marathon in 2007. So I think I should be okay for a 5k.
My plan is to run on the vomit line. Meaning, if I don't feel like throwing up then clearly I am not running hard enough. I've been practicing 5k's on the treadmill. It is flat on the treadmill and this race isnt but on the treadmill I am typically between 21-22 minutes. Hoping for a sub 6:50 pace. We'll see. I definitely have a hard time forcing myself to do things that don't feel good. Oh, sure. I know what you are thinking. But really, marathons and long distance are less painful for me than a short, fast and hard run. I seriously can run forever at an easy pace but running fast is something I really don't like because I feel so uncomfortable. Admittedly, I don't like to be uncomfortable and I just don't appreciate the vomit feeling the way I think some people do.
In other news I have also targeted my next marathon. Plan is to toe the line January 17th at The Museum of Aviation Marathon in Warner Robbins, GA. This is more a I'll-train-and-if-that-goes-well-I-will-sign-up-for-the race-in-the-taper sort of plan. Nothing definite yet.
More later . . .
Partly to blame is my darn Face book addiction but mostly because Christmas has had me consumed. But I finished my shopping today! So hopefully I will have more time to update tomorrow or this weekend.
On the running front I am running my first ever 5k this weekend. I am very excited about it and keeping telling myself that I am only going to feel terrible for about 22 minutes--hopefully less. I think I should be able to deal with that since I sucked it up for six hours in the South Carolina half iron man.
See, I knew sticking it out in that race would help me some how. Now I just ask myself when feeling bad in a race/workout, "Do I feel worse than I felt at SC Half?" No?
Then I'm good! Carry on!
My previous feeling worse bench marks were my 42 hr labor with Carmella, when I broke my pelvis and the near heat stroke I suffered in Ga ING marathon in 2007. So I think I should be okay for a 5k.
My plan is to run on the vomit line. Meaning, if I don't feel like throwing up then clearly I am not running hard enough. I've been practicing 5k's on the treadmill. It is flat on the treadmill and this race isnt but on the treadmill I am typically between 21-22 minutes. Hoping for a sub 6:50 pace. We'll see. I definitely have a hard time forcing myself to do things that don't feel good. Oh, sure. I know what you are thinking. But really, marathons and long distance are less painful for me than a short, fast and hard run. I seriously can run forever at an easy pace but running fast is something I really don't like because I feel so uncomfortable. Admittedly, I don't like to be uncomfortable and I just don't appreciate the vomit feeling the way I think some people do.
In other news I have also targeted my next marathon. Plan is to toe the line January 17th at The Museum of Aviation Marathon in Warner Robbins, GA. This is more a I'll-train-and-if-that-goes-well-I-will-sign-up-for-the race-in-the-taper sort of plan. Nothing definite yet.
More later . . .
Friday, November 14, 2008
Down for the Count
Of two.
Who?
Me.
Wednesday my Kindzia streak of consistently working out everyday for at least 30 minutes since 12/31/07 ended.
That's right. I caught Beau's stomach bug.
Holy moly. It was awful. I haven't been that sick in well, since last December when I had pneumonia or whatever the hell that month long chest rot I had then was. Really, though, this time was much worse than not being able to breathe. I just laid in my bed for 2 days and writhed in pain. I will spare you the ugly details since I can assume that you have probably at least once in your life succumbed to the perils of a stomach bug.
And I do feel lucky because my kids are older. Nothing. I mean nothing is worse than having a stomach bug and having to care for a toddler. Baby, not great. Preschooler, still not good. Kindergartner and second grader? Still not fun but with the older ones there is considerably less laundry as they are proficient in getting to the toilet to upsie or you, know, downsie. And babies, well, most of them are breastfed or still mostly bottle fed and well, a stomach bug on a liquid diet? Really how is that any different than everyday? But the toddler. They are mobile. And diapers? They leak. Oh God. It is everywhere.
So yeah, that was my silver lining. I don't have a toddler. Oh, and I also got lucky in that only one of my kids was sick when I was. Right, the easy one. Well sort of. No, not really in this case.
Sigh.
Carmella.
Bless the sweet pea's heart. She thinks just being human is creepy. So she is sort of a pathetic patient because she is so freaked out by the very idea of bodily functions so it is so much worse when they actually happen to her. Beau, on the otherhand, is sort of in awe about. He is like, whatever. I threw up. Can I go play at my friend's house now?
With Carmella there is hyperventaliating. Crying. Pacing. Writhing. Yeah, like two of me. We were in competition for who was more pathetic. And since she is seven who do you think won? Right. Like I've said before. She is always the better person. I was most pathetic.
-----------------------Oh, and Ryan would like me to mention "how awesome he is."
And by "awesome" I think he is referring to that he didn't come within 20 feet of me or Carmella without at least first spraying down the air with Lysol--which I can assure you did nothing for my nausea. He made Carmella sleep with me in the Hazmat room--aka, our bedroom.
Okay, he did do lots of laundry but that was only because I told him he couldn't go hunting unless he did. Oh, and he did take and pick up Beau from school.
So yes, that was pretty awesome. But. I think he just knew that there was the potential that I might survive this little bug and there would certainly be hell to pay then.
And I will say that mostly, in my opinion, it was pretty awesome that he didn't get said bug because that would have meant I would have been the one doing all the laundry and taking/picking up Beau to/from school and that would have meant I would have had to drag my half dead self out of bed. Which I promise you, wasn't going to happen.----------------------------------------
So for 2 days Carmella and I have laid in bed moaning, not eating or drinking and pretty much just about dying.
Today though.
I deemed us well.
I based this on the lack of vomiting for over 24 hours, no fever and that we both managed to eat something other than a saltine last night for dinner without dry heaving.
So, I sent Carmella to school, along with Beau. I planned to run.After copious amount of laundry and decontaminating happened, of course.
She came back home at 9 am.
She has been fine since she came home so I think she was just freaked out about the possibility of getting ill at school. She said her tummy hurt. I, of course, didn't believe her. We are well I told her. But she had already been to that damn school nurse so I had to take her home. They all ganged up on me, what could I do?
Well, I'll tell you.
I went by her teacher's room and got lots of work for her to do. My thinking was that Carmella rather enjoyed her lay-in-bed- watch-TV-and-color-puppy-pictures-and-vomit-vacation. I mean, she did make puppy pictures for at least 14 of her closest BFF's. Who makes stuff for their friend's when they are sick? I'll tell you who, fakers!
So, I was a little merciless making her do math homework, social studies, reading, art project and even write a story. But she had writer's block and still hasn't finished the story. She also does not appreciate at all the fabulous Face Book suggestions received either. I think they have further crippled her creativity. So "The Talking Crayon Box" remains an unfinished masterpiece as of this blog post writing. Sorry, guys. Thanks for trying.
Finally though the rain brought, my hero, Ryan, home and I was able to get much jonesed for run in.
I should mention now that my running of late has been going better. Taking a week off seemed to be just the ticket. Though, since the weekend-- when the stomach bug first showed up on my radar-- I have felt a bit off. Even still I managed 10 miles close to marathon pace on Monday. On Tuesday I wasn't feeling myself but hit the gym for my "how far can I go in an hour" treadmill run.
After a sad first mile at an 8:20 pace I cranked it out and got it done with 8.26 miles for the hour. And that was with taking a one minute walk break after the first 4 mile mark (which I hit in 29:20 something) because I was certain I was going to lose my breakfast and decided I was going to quit. But I rallied and decided I could finish out the hour. And I did. Overall average pace for the entire workout was 7:16 pace. An hour and half after the treadmill workout I had to take the kids to tennis. It was nice out and I was bored so I did an easy 4.5 miles. I think the average pace for that was 8:20 something pace. All and all not a bad day. Well, until I got the upsies. And the downsies. And the fever. And the body aches. And the chills. And two days where I thought for sure it was the end of me. And for part of the time I kind of hoped it was.
So, yeah, well that brings us to today. Friday. The day I willed myself well. I should have known my tummy was still a bit shaky but I ignored it and forged ahead with my coffee and Uncle Sam's--aka, NOT.A.GOOD.IDEA. Lunch was hard to get down too--brown rice, Lima beans and tomatoes. I don't know what I was thinking. But still I thought: I. Am. Better.
You, know, ignoring all those gurgling and quarters dropped down a pipe sound my digestive system was making.
I was fine.
So I went out for my run. Left Ryan with Carmella and told him to get Beau.
Yeah! Outside! Fresh air! My ipod! Me!
Ever the optimist I thought I maybe could do my 16 miler I was suppose to do on Thursday. I brought a Gu and $2, just in case. No water though or Gatorade. What? Why would I do that? That would be smart.
Ryan asked me how far? How long?
I said, I don't know. At least an hour, maybe two or more. . . hopefully.
About a mile in I was ready to turn back. My body was not right!
But I make no decisions in that first mile (or while running up a hill for that matter)--just my little rule.
I reasoned, well it has been 2 days. . . maybe I am just running too fast.
So I slowed down, my tummy threatening to rebel. As I reached the first of my 3 miles of uphills I considered walking but just tucked head and got through it, oh so painfully slow.
It started to rain and I worried about my new beautiful shoes and thought I should just do 6 miles. But then I thought about the 2 days I have languished in bed, dying and decided I needed to at least do ten miles to stay on track. So at the 3 mile I turned off to head into my 10 mile loop. And the tummy stayed there, on the vomit line but never crossed. I never felt great but it never got worse. At the 6 mile I was thirsty and licked my lips. Salt. Ugh. Gross. My spit was thick. Disgusting. Nothing was good. But with less than 4 miles to go I just plugged along and finished. Average pace was 8:42. Not terrible but 30 seconds slower per mile for the same run that I did on Monday and felt way less arduous. Really, in my mind, today should have been faster considering the 2 days of bed rest I had.
Do you count sick days as rest days?
I do. But maybe I shouldn't?
And so now I believe Carmella and guess that maybe she wasn't faking when she said her tummy still hurt. And maybe I even feel slightly guilty about that . . .
Sigh, I just want us all to be healthy!
Oh, one last thing. Since everyone thinks Beau is so funny here is the latest Beau drama, for your entertainment:
He has been an absolute pill the last week and a half at school, well and at home too. Mostly for his usual: talking too much, insubordination, being "wiggly" (seriously, that is what they call it). So I guess yesterday his teacher had had it and told him today he was being moved next to her at a desk by himself. Just so you know in the classroom they sit 5 kindergartners to a table. There are 15 kids in his class, 2 teachers. No one, but the teachers sit at desks. But in the older grades, they all sit at desks. Beau knows this.
The teacher however--for whatever reason-- did not at all inform me of this move. Beau did.
He enthusiastically informed me of it.
As in he had no clue this was a bad thing.
He was proud about it even.
This morning Beau came downstairs for breakfast and very excitedly told me that he was getting "his own desk" today. Next to the teachers, he informed me; nodding, smiling, brown eyes wide. All explaining why he jumped out of bed and got dressed lickety split for school. He had something to look forward to!
Carmella, having had the same two teachers for kindergarten and me, having had to sit at my own desk by the teachers when I was in kindergarten, knew exactly what this meant and that it was not good.
Carmella began by cataloging for Beau all the naughty children that had had to sit at the solo desk in kindergarten, many of who-- she furthered-- were still quite naughty in second grade. The desk, she told Beau, was bad news for him.
Beau tried to argue how he no longer had to share a table, emphasizing again, that he, Beau. Was getting his own desk. Next to the teachers even. You know, near the front of the class.
We tried, in vain to tell him this was not good. It meant he was naughty.
Beau wasn't listening, he was too excited for his new desk, his new position--you know, the one next to the teachers.
So I shot an email off the lead teacher explaining that Beau wasn't getting that the solo desk was punishment.
And this afternoon she shot one back to me that she tried making the solo desk "unpleasant as possible" for him by telling him stuff like his desk "had no table captain".
Okay.
You know.
Beau may not always have all the sails of his ship flying but, come on. Everyone knows at a table of one you are always the captain.
She also told him his desk didn't have a number.
Now this would have devastated Carmella but Beau?
Any table that he is at is number one in his mind.
Numbers? What are those?
She also told him that he couldn't line up until she told him he could. Which I am sure this was the most frustrating part for him but I think kindergartners don't get to do anything without being told to do it. So really, how is that different?
So when he came home from school today I asked him if he was sad at his desk by himself. And he told me emphatically No! It was great! And best of all he didn't have to sit next to, I will call her Betty but that is not her name, anymore. Apparently Beau really doesn't like Betty. He has mentioned before that she is not his favorite but I didn't really pay attention. Apparently, she picks her nose and has bad breath. Which is weird the nose picking would bother Beau since he is a staunch nose picker himself but I think when it comes to girls he operates on a bit of a double standard.
So that was my day and what I learned today is this: I can't will myself better, Carmella doesn't lie--ever. And Beau? You just can't take that kid down. Unlike his Mama, he isn't going down for any count--ever.
Okay, Cat. I promise. Your post is coming. I am having title trouble.
Who?
Me.
Wednesday my Kindzia streak of consistently working out everyday for at least 30 minutes since 12/31/07 ended.
That's right. I caught Beau's stomach bug.
Holy moly. It was awful. I haven't been that sick in well, since last December when I had pneumonia or whatever the hell that month long chest rot I had then was. Really, though, this time was much worse than not being able to breathe. I just laid in my bed for 2 days and writhed in pain. I will spare you the ugly details since I can assume that you have probably at least once in your life succumbed to the perils of a stomach bug.
And I do feel lucky because my kids are older. Nothing. I mean nothing is worse than having a stomach bug and having to care for a toddler. Baby, not great. Preschooler, still not good. Kindergartner and second grader? Still not fun but with the older ones there is considerably less laundry as they are proficient in getting to the toilet to upsie or you, know, downsie. And babies, well, most of them are breastfed or still mostly bottle fed and well, a stomach bug on a liquid diet? Really how is that any different than everyday? But the toddler. They are mobile. And diapers? They leak. Oh God. It is everywhere.
So yeah, that was my silver lining. I don't have a toddler. Oh, and I also got lucky in that only one of my kids was sick when I was. Right, the easy one. Well sort of. No, not really in this case.
Sigh.
Carmella.
Bless the sweet pea's heart. She thinks just being human is creepy. So she is sort of a pathetic patient because she is so freaked out by the very idea of bodily functions so it is so much worse when they actually happen to her. Beau, on the otherhand, is sort of in awe about. He is like, whatever. I threw up. Can I go play at my friend's house now?
With Carmella there is hyperventaliating. Crying. Pacing. Writhing. Yeah, like two of me. We were in competition for who was more pathetic. And since she is seven who do you think won? Right. Like I've said before. She is always the better person. I was most pathetic.
-----------------------Oh, and Ryan would like me to mention "how awesome he is."
And by "awesome" I think he is referring to that he didn't come within 20 feet of me or Carmella without at least first spraying down the air with Lysol--which I can assure you did nothing for my nausea. He made Carmella sleep with me in the Hazmat room--aka, our bedroom.
Okay, he did do lots of laundry but that was only because I told him he couldn't go hunting unless he did. Oh, and he did take and pick up Beau from school.
So yes, that was pretty awesome. But. I think he just knew that there was the potential that I might survive this little bug and there would certainly be hell to pay then.
And I will say that mostly, in my opinion, it was pretty awesome that he didn't get said bug because that would have meant I would have been the one doing all the laundry and taking/picking up Beau to/from school and that would have meant I would have had to drag my half dead self out of bed. Which I promise you, wasn't going to happen.----------------------------------------
So for 2 days Carmella and I have laid in bed moaning, not eating or drinking and pretty much just about dying.
Today though.
I deemed us well.
I based this on the lack of vomiting for over 24 hours, no fever and that we both managed to eat something other than a saltine last night for dinner without dry heaving.
So, I sent Carmella to school, along with Beau. I planned to run.After copious amount of laundry and decontaminating happened, of course.
She came back home at 9 am.
She has been fine since she came home so I think she was just freaked out about the possibility of getting ill at school. She said her tummy hurt. I, of course, didn't believe her. We are well I told her. But she had already been to that damn school nurse so I had to take her home. They all ganged up on me, what could I do?
Well, I'll tell you.
I went by her teacher's room and got lots of work for her to do. My thinking was that Carmella rather enjoyed her lay-in-bed- watch-TV-and-color-puppy-pictures-and-vomit-vacation. I mean, she did make puppy pictures for at least 14 of her closest BFF's. Who makes stuff for their friend's when they are sick? I'll tell you who, fakers!
So, I was a little merciless making her do math homework, social studies, reading, art project and even write a story. But she had writer's block and still hasn't finished the story. She also does not appreciate at all the fabulous Face Book suggestions received either. I think they have further crippled her creativity. So "The Talking Crayon Box" remains an unfinished masterpiece as of this blog post writing. Sorry, guys. Thanks for trying.
Finally though the rain brought, my hero, Ryan, home and I was able to get much jonesed for run in.
I should mention now that my running of late has been going better. Taking a week off seemed to be just the ticket. Though, since the weekend-- when the stomach bug first showed up on my radar-- I have felt a bit off. Even still I managed 10 miles close to marathon pace on Monday. On Tuesday I wasn't feeling myself but hit the gym for my "how far can I go in an hour" treadmill run.
After a sad first mile at an 8:20 pace I cranked it out and got it done with 8.26 miles for the hour. And that was with taking a one minute walk break after the first 4 mile mark (which I hit in 29:20 something) because I was certain I was going to lose my breakfast and decided I was going to quit. But I rallied and decided I could finish out the hour. And I did. Overall average pace for the entire workout was 7:16 pace. An hour and half after the treadmill workout I had to take the kids to tennis. It was nice out and I was bored so I did an easy 4.5 miles. I think the average pace for that was 8:20 something pace. All and all not a bad day. Well, until I got the upsies. And the downsies. And the fever. And the body aches. And the chills. And two days where I thought for sure it was the end of me. And for part of the time I kind of hoped it was.
So, yeah, well that brings us to today. Friday. The day I willed myself well. I should have known my tummy was still a bit shaky but I ignored it and forged ahead with my coffee and Uncle Sam's--aka, NOT.A.GOOD.IDEA. Lunch was hard to get down too--brown rice, Lima beans and tomatoes. I don't know what I was thinking. But still I thought: I. Am. Better.
You, know, ignoring all those gurgling and quarters dropped down a pipe sound my digestive system was making.
I was fine.
So I went out for my run. Left Ryan with Carmella and told him to get Beau.
Yeah! Outside! Fresh air! My ipod! Me!
Ever the optimist I thought I maybe could do my 16 miler I was suppose to do on Thursday. I brought a Gu and $2, just in case. No water though or Gatorade. What? Why would I do that? That would be smart.
Ryan asked me how far? How long?
I said, I don't know. At least an hour, maybe two or more. . . hopefully.
About a mile in I was ready to turn back. My body was not right!
But I make no decisions in that first mile (or while running up a hill for that matter)--just my little rule.
I reasoned, well it has been 2 days. . . maybe I am just running too fast.
So I slowed down, my tummy threatening to rebel. As I reached the first of my 3 miles of uphills I considered walking but just tucked head and got through it, oh so painfully slow.
It started to rain and I worried about my new beautiful shoes and thought I should just do 6 miles. But then I thought about the 2 days I have languished in bed, dying and decided I needed to at least do ten miles to stay on track. So at the 3 mile I turned off to head into my 10 mile loop. And the tummy stayed there, on the vomit line but never crossed. I never felt great but it never got worse. At the 6 mile I was thirsty and licked my lips. Salt. Ugh. Gross. My spit was thick. Disgusting. Nothing was good. But with less than 4 miles to go I just plugged along and finished. Average pace was 8:42. Not terrible but 30 seconds slower per mile for the same run that I did on Monday and felt way less arduous. Really, in my mind, today should have been faster considering the 2 days of bed rest I had.
Do you count sick days as rest days?
I do. But maybe I shouldn't?
And so now I believe Carmella and guess that maybe she wasn't faking when she said her tummy still hurt. And maybe I even feel slightly guilty about that . . .
Sigh, I just want us all to be healthy!
Oh, one last thing. Since everyone thinks Beau is so funny here is the latest Beau drama, for your entertainment:
He has been an absolute pill the last week and a half at school, well and at home too. Mostly for his usual: talking too much, insubordination, being "wiggly" (seriously, that is what they call it). So I guess yesterday his teacher had had it and told him today he was being moved next to her at a desk by himself. Just so you know in the classroom they sit 5 kindergartners to a table. There are 15 kids in his class, 2 teachers. No one, but the teachers sit at desks. But in the older grades, they all sit at desks. Beau knows this.
The teacher however--for whatever reason-- did not at all inform me of this move. Beau did.
He enthusiastically informed me of it.
As in he had no clue this was a bad thing.
He was proud about it even.
This morning Beau came downstairs for breakfast and very excitedly told me that he was getting "his own desk" today. Next to the teachers, he informed me; nodding, smiling, brown eyes wide. All explaining why he jumped out of bed and got dressed lickety split for school. He had something to look forward to!
Carmella, having had the same two teachers for kindergarten and me, having had to sit at my own desk by the teachers when I was in kindergarten, knew exactly what this meant and that it was not good.
Carmella began by cataloging for Beau all the naughty children that had had to sit at the solo desk in kindergarten, many of who-- she furthered-- were still quite naughty in second grade. The desk, she told Beau, was bad news for him.
Beau tried to argue how he no longer had to share a table, emphasizing again, that he, Beau. Was getting his own desk. Next to the teachers even. You know, near the front of the class.
We tried, in vain to tell him this was not good. It meant he was naughty.
Beau wasn't listening, he was too excited for his new desk, his new position--you know, the one next to the teachers.
So I shot an email off the lead teacher explaining that Beau wasn't getting that the solo desk was punishment.
And this afternoon she shot one back to me that she tried making the solo desk "unpleasant as possible" for him by telling him stuff like his desk "had no table captain".
Okay.
You know.
Beau may not always have all the sails of his ship flying but, come on. Everyone knows at a table of one you are always the captain.
She also told him his desk didn't have a number.
Now this would have devastated Carmella but Beau?
Any table that he is at is number one in his mind.
Numbers? What are those?
She also told him that he couldn't line up until she told him he could. Which I am sure this was the most frustrating part for him but I think kindergartners don't get to do anything without being told to do it. So really, how is that different?
So when he came home from school today I asked him if he was sad at his desk by himself. And he told me emphatically No! It was great! And best of all he didn't have to sit next to, I will call her Betty but that is not her name, anymore. Apparently Beau really doesn't like Betty. He has mentioned before that she is not his favorite but I didn't really pay attention. Apparently, she picks her nose and has bad breath. Which is weird the nose picking would bother Beau since he is a staunch nose picker himself but I think when it comes to girls he operates on a bit of a double standard.
So that was my day and what I learned today is this: I can't will myself better, Carmella doesn't lie--ever. And Beau? You just can't take that kid down. Unlike his Mama, he isn't going down for any count--ever.
Okay, Cat. I promise. Your post is coming. I am having title trouble.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Running Favorites
I know Oprah has her favorite things show or whatever it is called and I suppose this post is going to be kind of like that but it has to do with running and I don't have any freebies to give away.
Sorry.
But people do ask me frequently what I like and what I wear and all that good stuff--as if I have any idea what I am talking about. But since I have many friends who have recently taken up running or have finally decided to step it up and run their first half marathon I thought I would put it all down here. Keep in mind this is what works for me so it isn't the end all be all.
Okay, let's get started.
Where to shop?
First off my favorite running store is The Big Peach. I really don't go anywhere else and they are my go to people for all things running. They now have 4 metro Atlanta locations: Brookhaven, Decatur, Kennesaw and Marietta. They are knowledgeable and passionate and an absolute great resource. Most of the stores have group runs out of the store. They also have a trail running series so you can find out about all the local trails. They do seminars on a regular occurance that are free and cover all the various aspects of running.
Even though I go to Big Peach for just about everything I do occasionally order online.
I have ordered compression socks from Revel and found them to be affordable and fast. I also found their over the calf compression socks to be the most affordable. Suddenly these socks are everywhere and they run over $40+ a pair. Revel still offers Oxysox for under $25.
I have, in the past, ordered running shoes from Kelly's. Never had a problem.
I also love Swimoutlet.com. Not just for swim apparel but they sometimes have the best prices for running and triathlon apparel. Definitely worth a look.
Speaking of triathlon Team Estrogen has the cutest stuff but it is sometimes too pricey for me. Look there first and then Google what you like for a better price is my advice before buying. I found a Zoot tri top for half the price it was at TE on Ebay.
Apparel
Bottoms: I like running skirts.
My current favorite is the Brooks Running Skort. I wore this for GA ING marathon and Country Music Marathon and for most of the long runs I do. I like this skirt because it has 2 pockets-- one with a zipper even. And it has a draw string so it doesn't slip down as a lot of my other skirts do. It doesn't cause me chafing but I don't typically have that problem anyway.
I also like Skirt Sports skirts. I have 4 and have worn them in marathons, half marathons and 10k's. They even have "skirt chaser" shirts for the boys, if you men are so inclined.
I don't really like the full length tights. I do have one pair from Nike but I always roll them up.
I do like the capri length tights. I have a few pairs of Champion capri length from Target. I like these because they have a draw string. I gotta have that drawstring; without it the pants slide down my hips and I spend the run hitching up my pants.
The only shorts I wear are Nike 2.5" low-rise compression shorts.
I like these for the gym or really hot days outside. I also like to wear them when I do long brick training. I'll wear them under my bike shorts and then pull the bike shorts off for the run. I hate running in padded bike shorts. These are my "get away" shorts.
Tops:
I will do whatever but I do love Nike tanks, triathlon tanks (extra pockets!) and my favorite is of course one of my "Run Like a Girl" technical shirts by Reebok. I tried to find a link but I guess Reebok doesn't sell the shirt anymore. But it is just a light weight short sleeve technical shirt.
If it is colder I usually go the long sleeve technical top route.
Or, even better, I have a few 1/4 zip mock fleece tops from Target.(I know, again with the Target. I am little cheap about somethings.) Sometimes you can find them on sale. I bought 2 last year on clearance for $10 a pop.
This is my a favorite cold weather running shirt.
However I don't really need to break this out for running until it is below 40 around here unless I am cycling. I'll throw it on under one of my summer sleeveless bike jersey's.
For really cold I like a light weight vest rather than a jacket. Running distance in cold weather is all about the layers. A vest is great because if you go light weight long sleeve under the vest you can always pull the under shirt off and stuff in a pocket or tie around your waist if you get hot. I have two vests: a fleece one from the Gap that I've had for years and it works great. I also have a windbreaker one with down from Target. Keep in mind; it doesn't have to be running specific to work for running. I use a lot of my stuff I bought for skiing for when it gets really cold. I've even worn my unlined ski pants over running tights on a super cold day.
A light weight wind breaker is nice to have but really when the wind is a problem it is usually pretty cold so that Underarmour shirt I recommended and the windbreaker vest seem to work best for me.
A rain jacket I don't have. I did have one once but they get really hot. I've found it is just best to suck it up and get wet when it comes to rain. Typically it is a bit warmer and humid when it rains. A rain jacket can feel suffocating. So in the case of rain technical light weight fabrics are a must--no cotton--and some sort of hat with a brim to keep the rain off your face. I prefer a visor but ball caps work too.
Socks: As mentioned I have a pair of over the calf compression socks by Oxysox. I use these mostly when my legs are already fatigued from--as is often the case with me--over training. Some days are just Oxysox days.
But for the most part I wear Asics Hera low-cut socks. I love these. They have arch compression and they don't slip down like other low-cut socks do. They are also thin. I prefer a thin sock. They are, however, not warm.
Shoes: I like Brooks. What works for me may not work for you. I am a slight over-pronator with low, flexible arches. I have wide feet and I like extra cushioning. Brooks works well for me.
I just recently bought Trance 8 but in the past I really liked the Infiniti and was once a huge fan of the Adrenalines. I do try out other brands before I buy but I keep going to the Brooks-- it is just what currently is working for me.
I also have their Cascadia trail shoe.They are a bit stiff but I like them--I do wear my regular running shoes on trails for the most part.
I have tried other brands in the past: New Balance use to work well but I found they wore out very quickly which is why I switched to Brooks. I like Asics and Mizuno too. Nike has never worked for me. Which is a little sad because they do make a stylish shoe. My feet hate them though.
I don't have any racing flats so I can't speak at all about the pros or cons of those or even the need for them. I am just not there.
Sports bras: I am small chested so what works for my little girls probably won't work for the gals with bigger girls. But I like those Championseamless racer back bras from Target. I think they around $15. Typically though for the marathon I will go with my Moving Comfort bra. It offers better compression support that can be nice when you are running for a long time. After a few hours every little jiggle can become painful. This bra keeps even my skin from moving. Also, for me at least, no chafing.
If any of my friends who are more blessed in the chest could pipe up with their favorite sports bra I am sure it would be appreciated.
Accessories:
Mittens: I find that even though I can get away with short sleeves and a running skirt to about 40 degrees I can't keep my hands warm once it gets in the below the low 50's. Cold hands and worse, numb fingers is a huge distraction. But if you're like me--a kitten that is always losing her mittens--you don't want to spend a lot of money on nice gloves. So again, Target is your friend. They have a 2 pack of mittens for a $1.50. Just buy black so that if you lose one you don't have to worry about wearing one pink and one black mitten. And if your nose tends to run in the cold weather like mine does the mittens also make a great kleenex. And since they were so cheap you don't mind tossing when they get too snotty.
Hats: I like a dryfit ball cap or a visor for most runs. But for the cold I like those head warmers. They keep your ears warm but you can also push it down around your neck if it gets too hot.
Other tips and tidbits:
Fueling:
For 3 hr runs (around 21 miles)I have been using one Roctane Gu at 6/7 miles in and one Vanilla Gu at 11/12 miles and 16-36oz Gatorade (depending on how hot it is) in addition to water throughout the run. I have to do the Roctane first. My tummy gets disagreeable the longer I run and things stop working as efficiently. So I use the denser stuff earlier in the run and go lighter as the run progresses.
For runs that go over 3 hrs I will usually bring a package of shot blocks or Luna Moons to munch on too-- eating one or 2 every mile or so.
For runs under 3 hours I usually do one Gu and 20oz Gatorade and water to wash the Gu down.
For runs under 2 hours I don't bring anything but may stop for water at a fountain if I get thirsty.
I buy the individually wrapped powdered Gatorade at the grocery store.
I bring my hand-held bottle. The hand-held is preferable to me over a fuel belt. I find it is easier to just stop and refill the bottle (mix Gatorade) than it is to run with the fuel belt. I also feel ridiculous wearing a fuel belt. But that is just me.
I also plan my routes with Quik Trip's and Walgreen's and CVS's on the route so I can make use of the clean potties and most often, free water. QT will let you have free ice if you bring your own bottle--so will Starbucks. I do bring a few bucks with me just in case. Target does have Powerbar gels and Sharkies in a pinch.
I am not going to say much else on the nutrition aspect of running since that is a very individual thing and a bit of trial and error. Keep in mind basic rule of thumb is every 45 minutes take in about 100 calories maybe drink some water. Everyone is different. Find what works for you.
One last thing; my "secret" pre-race/long run weapon is pretzels dipped in peanut butter: carbs, salt and protein. Wash down with some water and you got yourself a little bit of an IV drip going. Lance's peanutbutter wheat crackers worked great on the bike for me and didn't cause me tummy woes on the brick runs after.
When it rains:I already mentioned the necessity of light weight clothing (arm warmers would probably be better than long sleeves in this case) and a hat with a brim.
But what to do before the race?
This can be problematic since you almost always have to get to the race start 30 minutes to an hour before the start (sometimes as much as 4 hours!) and often there is no shelter to stay dry. For me nothing is worse than standing in the rain and having to start a race sopping wet. I see most people wearing garbage bags to keep dry but I just feel ridiculous and well, you still get wet.
So if I know it is going to be raining at the start of a race I will go to the dollar store the day before and buy an umbrella. This way I don't have to stand around in the rain getting cold and wet waiting for the start. Right before the gun goes I either hand my umbrella off to a volunteer, spectator or toss it in the trash. To me that was a dollar well spent.
My opinion on Gadgetery: I know men heart the gadgets and for them that is part of the fun of any sport. I really think that is why men are more into cycling and triathlon than women: all that glorious equipment and potential gadgetery. But I am girl who likes things simple--I especially like not having to read an owner's manual on how to work something.
These days everyone thinks they need a fancy GPS/HR monitor to run even a few miles. Certainly, there is nothing wrong with that but it is absolutely not a necessity. It is an extra expense and if you can afford it then I see no reason not to have one--especially if it will make you happy. But to be certain, you don't have to have it.
Yes.
Agreed. It is nice to know your splits and maybe what your heart rate is doing when you run up a hill but for me I can tell that mine is up--I don't need a monitor to tell me that. And well, I don't really care what my splits are for the most part. And in a race ultimately it is your over all average pace that gets you to the finish line. And you know, doing the math yourself and figuring out splits yourself can make the time go by faster. Not to mention, you can make pace bands to wear that will help you with this if you are not numerically gifted.
However, it is nice to know how far and how fast you ran any given run. A basic watch with a stop watch function is really all you need. I know, I know that is so old school. And mapmyrun.com will help you figure out exactly how far you ran. Even when I use my Garmin I find it so unreliable (because it loses the signal from clouds, trees, making turns etc) that I often "mapmyrun" anyway. There is usually at least a .2 mile to over a mile discrepancy. Depending how fast and how far you ran that can mean almost a minute difference per mile for the average pace.
Honestly, the only gadget that I really want is my Ipod. But if you run without music I would not suggest starting now. It is a crutch. And I need it. I love it and I don't want to run at all without it. But sadly, most races make you leave your Ipod at home. So do not start using one if you don't already; otherwise you'll be sad like I am when I have to race without it.
Race Etiquette:
Read this.
Some things I want to expand on:
The start: Keep in mind those at the front of the start line typically plan on bolting out at a sub 6 pace. If you cannot maintain that pace you have no business being at the front of the line. And if you plan on walking at the start of race start all the way at the back.
Passing: Often there is a lot of dodging and weaving in a race--especially if it is a popular one. If I need to cut in front of someone I like to give them a head's up. Since most often (myself included) people are wearing headphones I give a visual--instead of calling out-- of the direction I am going to go by pointing with my hand before I make my move. I also do this if I need to spit and move as far over the side as I can. Nothing is grosser than being spit on in a race and having to run with someone else's snot on you. I know you are excited about your race and bettering your time but still remember that there are other people out there trying to do the same.
Also, do not just stop in middle of the course. If you need to slow your pace and walk please move over to the left side and look behind you before you do.
Similarly at the end of a race-- and this is especially true in the half marathons that share the course with full marathoners-- do not walk 3 or 4 abreast. Keep in mind that if you are running over 2 and half hours for a half marathon you are more than likely going to be in the way of those finishing the marathon who run an 8 and under minute mile (for the races that share a finish line but may follow different routes that converge). At the end of a marathon it is very hard to weave around walls of people who are running/walking two times slower than your pace. Besides, it is always proper etiquette to yield to the faster runners in a race. It is a race after all.
Volunteers: Thank them. They are not paid and they are there to make sure you have a great race. So be nice to them and try to at least aim your trash at a trashcan. Don't make their job any harder than it needs to be.
Other Resources:
Runner's World: articles, discussion boards, up to date running news.
McMillan Calculator: Not an exact science but a good tool to help you figure out pace goals and paces for various distances in training.
MarathonGuide: Calendar of US marathons.
Half marathon guide
Find US Races
USATF
Common Running Injuries
Okay, that is all I can think of for now. Feel free to add your own tips and tidbits in the comments.
PS. I forgot to include for the boys Utilikilts.
Be sure to check out their comprehensive sight and most excellent photo gallery. There are plenty of models to choose from and some have some of those extra pockets that I love for Gu's , cell phones and dollars.
PPS. Paul, I think a kilt would look great with some compression socks. ;)
Joe, no need to be confused any longer.
Sorry.
But people do ask me frequently what I like and what I wear and all that good stuff--as if I have any idea what I am talking about. But since I have many friends who have recently taken up running or have finally decided to step it up and run their first half marathon I thought I would put it all down here. Keep in mind this is what works for me so it isn't the end all be all.
Okay, let's get started.
Where to shop?
First off my favorite running store is The Big Peach. I really don't go anywhere else and they are my go to people for all things running. They now have 4 metro Atlanta locations: Brookhaven, Decatur, Kennesaw and Marietta. They are knowledgeable and passionate and an absolute great resource. Most of the stores have group runs out of the store. They also have a trail running series so you can find out about all the local trails. They do seminars on a regular occurance that are free and cover all the various aspects of running.
Even though I go to Big Peach for just about everything I do occasionally order online.
I have ordered compression socks from Revel and found them to be affordable and fast. I also found their over the calf compression socks to be the most affordable. Suddenly these socks are everywhere and they run over $40+ a pair. Revel still offers Oxysox for under $25.
I have, in the past, ordered running shoes from Kelly's. Never had a problem.
I also love Swimoutlet.com. Not just for swim apparel but they sometimes have the best prices for running and triathlon apparel. Definitely worth a look.
Speaking of triathlon Team Estrogen has the cutest stuff but it is sometimes too pricey for me. Look there first and then Google what you like for a better price is my advice before buying. I found a Zoot tri top for half the price it was at TE on Ebay.
Apparel
Bottoms: I like running skirts.
My current favorite is the Brooks Running Skort. I wore this for GA ING marathon and Country Music Marathon and for most of the long runs I do. I like this skirt because it has 2 pockets-- one with a zipper even. And it has a draw string so it doesn't slip down as a lot of my other skirts do. It doesn't cause me chafing but I don't typically have that problem anyway.I also like Skirt Sports skirts. I have 4 and have worn them in marathons, half marathons and 10k's. They even have "skirt chaser" shirts for the boys, if you men are so inclined.
I don't really like the full length tights. I do have one pair from Nike but I always roll them up.
I do like the capri length tights. I have a few pairs of Champion capri length from Target. I like these because they have a draw string. I gotta have that drawstring; without it the pants slide down my hips and I spend the run hitching up my pants.The only shorts I wear are Nike 2.5" low-rise compression shorts.
I like these for the gym or really hot days outside. I also like to wear them when I do long brick training. I'll wear them under my bike shorts and then pull the bike shorts off for the run. I hate running in padded bike shorts. These are my "get away" shorts.Tops:
I will do whatever but I do love Nike tanks, triathlon tanks (extra pockets!) and my favorite is of course one of my "Run Like a Girl" technical shirts by Reebok. I tried to find a link but I guess Reebok doesn't sell the shirt anymore. But it is just a light weight short sleeve technical shirt.
If it is colder I usually go the long sleeve technical top route.
Or, even better, I have a few 1/4 zip mock fleece tops from Target.(I know, again with the Target. I am little cheap about somethings.) Sometimes you can find them on sale. I bought 2 last year on clearance for $10 a pop.
This is my a favorite cold weather running shirt.
However I don't really need to break this out for running until it is below 40 around here unless I am cycling. I'll throw it on under one of my summer sleeveless bike jersey's.
For really cold I like a light weight vest rather than a jacket. Running distance in cold weather is all about the layers. A vest is great because if you go light weight long sleeve under the vest you can always pull the under shirt off and stuff in a pocket or tie around your waist if you get hot. I have two vests: a fleece one from the Gap that I've had for years and it works great. I also have a windbreaker one with down from Target. Keep in mind; it doesn't have to be running specific to work for running. I use a lot of my stuff I bought for skiing for when it gets really cold. I've even worn my unlined ski pants over running tights on a super cold day.
A light weight wind breaker is nice to have but really when the wind is a problem it is usually pretty cold so that Underarmour shirt I recommended and the windbreaker vest seem to work best for me.
A rain jacket I don't have. I did have one once but they get really hot. I've found it is just best to suck it up and get wet when it comes to rain. Typically it is a bit warmer and humid when it rains. A rain jacket can feel suffocating. So in the case of rain technical light weight fabrics are a must--no cotton--and some sort of hat with a brim to keep the rain off your face. I prefer a visor but ball caps work too.
Socks: As mentioned I have a pair of over the calf compression socks by Oxysox. I use these mostly when my legs are already fatigued from--as is often the case with me--over training. Some days are just Oxysox days.
But for the most part I wear Asics Hera low-cut socks. I love these. They have arch compression and they don't slip down like other low-cut socks do. They are also thin. I prefer a thin sock. They are, however, not warm.Shoes: I like Brooks. What works for me may not work for you. I am a slight over-pronator with low, flexible arches. I have wide feet and I like extra cushioning. Brooks works well for me.
I just recently bought Trance 8 but in the past I really liked the Infiniti and was once a huge fan of the Adrenalines. I do try out other brands before I buy but I keep going to the Brooks-- it is just what currently is working for me.
I also have their Cascadia trail shoe.They are a bit stiff but I like them--I do wear my regular running shoes on trails for the most part.
I have tried other brands in the past: New Balance use to work well but I found they wore out very quickly which is why I switched to Brooks. I like Asics and Mizuno too. Nike has never worked for me. Which is a little sad because they do make a stylish shoe. My feet hate them though.
I don't have any racing flats so I can't speak at all about the pros or cons of those or even the need for them. I am just not there.
Sports bras: I am small chested so what works for my little girls probably won't work for the gals with bigger girls. But I like those Championseamless racer back bras from Target. I think they around $15. Typically though for the marathon I will go with my Moving Comfort bra. It offers better compression support that can be nice when you are running for a long time. After a few hours every little jiggle can become painful. This bra keeps even my skin from moving. Also, for me at least, no chafing.
If any of my friends who are more blessed in the chest could pipe up with their favorite sports bra I am sure it would be appreciated.
Accessories:
Mittens: I find that even though I can get away with short sleeves and a running skirt to about 40 degrees I can't keep my hands warm once it gets in the below the low 50's. Cold hands and worse, numb fingers is a huge distraction. But if you're like me--a kitten that is always losing her mittens--you don't want to spend a lot of money on nice gloves. So again, Target is your friend. They have a 2 pack of mittens for a $1.50. Just buy black so that if you lose one you don't have to worry about wearing one pink and one black mitten. And if your nose tends to run in the cold weather like mine does the mittens also make a great kleenex. And since they were so cheap you don't mind tossing when they get too snotty.
Hats: I like a dryfit ball cap or a visor for most runs. But for the cold I like those head warmers. They keep your ears warm but you can also push it down around your neck if it gets too hot.
Other tips and tidbits:
Fueling:
For 3 hr runs (around 21 miles)I have been using one Roctane Gu at 6/7 miles in and one Vanilla Gu at 11/12 miles and 16-36oz Gatorade (depending on how hot it is) in addition to water throughout the run. I have to do the Roctane first. My tummy gets disagreeable the longer I run and things stop working as efficiently. So I use the denser stuff earlier in the run and go lighter as the run progresses.
For runs that go over 3 hrs I will usually bring a package of shot blocks or Luna Moons to munch on too-- eating one or 2 every mile or so.
For runs under 3 hours I usually do one Gu and 20oz Gatorade and water to wash the Gu down.
For runs under 2 hours I don't bring anything but may stop for water at a fountain if I get thirsty.
I buy the individually wrapped powdered Gatorade at the grocery store.
I bring my hand-held bottle. The hand-held is preferable to me over a fuel belt. I find it is easier to just stop and refill the bottle (mix Gatorade) than it is to run with the fuel belt. I also feel ridiculous wearing a fuel belt. But that is just me.I also plan my routes with Quik Trip's and Walgreen's and CVS's on the route so I can make use of the clean potties and most often, free water. QT will let you have free ice if you bring your own bottle--so will Starbucks. I do bring a few bucks with me just in case. Target does have Powerbar gels and Sharkies in a pinch.
I am not going to say much else on the nutrition aspect of running since that is a very individual thing and a bit of trial and error. Keep in mind basic rule of thumb is every 45 minutes take in about 100 calories maybe drink some water. Everyone is different. Find what works for you.
One last thing; my "secret" pre-race/long run weapon is pretzels dipped in peanut butter: carbs, salt and protein. Wash down with some water and you got yourself a little bit of an IV drip going. Lance's peanutbutter wheat crackers worked great on the bike for me and didn't cause me tummy woes on the brick runs after.
When it rains:I already mentioned the necessity of light weight clothing (arm warmers would probably be better than long sleeves in this case) and a hat with a brim.
But what to do before the race?
This can be problematic since you almost always have to get to the race start 30 minutes to an hour before the start (sometimes as much as 4 hours!) and often there is no shelter to stay dry. For me nothing is worse than standing in the rain and having to start a race sopping wet. I see most people wearing garbage bags to keep dry but I just feel ridiculous and well, you still get wet.
So if I know it is going to be raining at the start of a race I will go to the dollar store the day before and buy an umbrella. This way I don't have to stand around in the rain getting cold and wet waiting for the start. Right before the gun goes I either hand my umbrella off to a volunteer, spectator or toss it in the trash. To me that was a dollar well spent.
My opinion on Gadgetery: I know men heart the gadgets and for them that is part of the fun of any sport. I really think that is why men are more into cycling and triathlon than women: all that glorious equipment and potential gadgetery. But I am girl who likes things simple--I especially like not having to read an owner's manual on how to work something.
These days everyone thinks they need a fancy GPS/HR monitor to run even a few miles. Certainly, there is nothing wrong with that but it is absolutely not a necessity. It is an extra expense and if you can afford it then I see no reason not to have one--especially if it will make you happy. But to be certain, you don't have to have it.
Yes.
Agreed. It is nice to know your splits and maybe what your heart rate is doing when you run up a hill but for me I can tell that mine is up--I don't need a monitor to tell me that. And well, I don't really care what my splits are for the most part. And in a race ultimately it is your over all average pace that gets you to the finish line. And you know, doing the math yourself and figuring out splits yourself can make the time go by faster. Not to mention, you can make pace bands to wear that will help you with this if you are not numerically gifted.
However, it is nice to know how far and how fast you ran any given run. A basic watch with a stop watch function is really all you need. I know, I know that is so old school. And mapmyrun.com will help you figure out exactly how far you ran. Even when I use my Garmin I find it so unreliable (because it loses the signal from clouds, trees, making turns etc) that I often "mapmyrun" anyway. There is usually at least a .2 mile to over a mile discrepancy. Depending how fast and how far you ran that can mean almost a minute difference per mile for the average pace.
Honestly, the only gadget that I really want is my Ipod. But if you run without music I would not suggest starting now. It is a crutch. And I need it. I love it and I don't want to run at all without it. But sadly, most races make you leave your Ipod at home. So do not start using one if you don't already; otherwise you'll be sad like I am when I have to race without it.
Race Etiquette:
Read this.
Some things I want to expand on:
The start: Keep in mind those at the front of the start line typically plan on bolting out at a sub 6 pace. If you cannot maintain that pace you have no business being at the front of the line. And if you plan on walking at the start of race start all the way at the back.
Passing: Often there is a lot of dodging and weaving in a race--especially if it is a popular one. If I need to cut in front of someone I like to give them a head's up. Since most often (myself included) people are wearing headphones I give a visual--instead of calling out-- of the direction I am going to go by pointing with my hand before I make my move. I also do this if I need to spit and move as far over the side as I can. Nothing is grosser than being spit on in a race and having to run with someone else's snot on you. I know you are excited about your race and bettering your time but still remember that there are other people out there trying to do the same.
Also, do not just stop in middle of the course. If you need to slow your pace and walk please move over to the left side and look behind you before you do.
Similarly at the end of a race-- and this is especially true in the half marathons that share the course with full marathoners-- do not walk 3 or 4 abreast. Keep in mind that if you are running over 2 and half hours for a half marathon you are more than likely going to be in the way of those finishing the marathon who run an 8 and under minute mile (for the races that share a finish line but may follow different routes that converge). At the end of a marathon it is very hard to weave around walls of people who are running/walking two times slower than your pace. Besides, it is always proper etiquette to yield to the faster runners in a race. It is a race after all.
Volunteers: Thank them. They are not paid and they are there to make sure you have a great race. So be nice to them and try to at least aim your trash at a trashcan. Don't make their job any harder than it needs to be.
Other Resources:
Runner's World: articles, discussion boards, up to date running news.
McMillan Calculator: Not an exact science but a good tool to help you figure out pace goals and paces for various distances in training.
MarathonGuide: Calendar of US marathons.
Half marathon guide
Find US Races
USATF
Common Running Injuries
Okay, that is all I can think of for now. Feel free to add your own tips and tidbits in the comments.
PS. I forgot to include for the boys Utilikilts.
Be sure to check out their comprehensive sight and most excellent photo gallery. There are plenty of models to choose from and some have some of those extra pockets that I love for Gu's , cell phones and dollars. PPS. Paul, I think a kilt would look great with some compression socks. ;)
Joe, no need to be confused any longer.
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