The race is now 13 days, 11 hours, and 40 minutes away! I've added the link to the Marine Corps Marathon website, which shows the countdown. It also has a sign-up page for Remote Runner Tracking (under Spotlight), through which you can sign up to get periodic text or email alerts regarding a runner's progress during the race. There is also a 3-D Video Course Map, for anyone who is interested in seeing the course and the elevation, etc. I am getting so excited!
During the last week of September, I ran my second 20-miler, which is the last one I will do before the race. The first half of the run was wonderful! D was here, so he road his bike along with me and carried the drinks and Clif Shot Blocks as always. I was running very well, and having a great morning. Then not long before I turned around, the wind picked up! Later, on the news it said the winds were 25 mph sustained, with up to 45 mph gusts! There were a couple of times I thought the wind was going to blow me off my feet, and that is not an easy task! This was by far the hardest physical thing I have ever done. Up until somewhere around mile 12 or 13, I was still able to maintain my target pace of 11:07. After that, I just had to quit paying attention to my pace because it was impossible for me to maintain. I was just thankful I finished. There were a couple of extra walking breaks again because it was so hard, but I guess that was to be expected. Had it not been for the wind, I really believe I would have had an excellent run. I was feeling very good and running very well. I'm really hoping all of these challenges help me be well-prepared for the race. :-)
When I was struggling so hard with the wind, especially on the hills, I just kept telling myself, "This is nothing compared to losing a baby; you can do this." It is really important to keep it in perspective. While this does test not only my physical, but mental endurance, it truly does not compare to what our family, and especially my sister and her husband at the time went through when we lost our little one.
Last Friday when I did my speedwork, I was also feeling great. The total distance was 8 miles; with a one-mile warm up and a one-mile cool down. The speed intervals were four 1-mile intervals at an 8:50 pace and 1/2 mile jogs in-between. I ran those on the treadmill and while it was challenging, I was able to maintain. It is always very encouraging to have a good workout like that.
I also had a dream that I finished the marathon in 3:05 (what a dream!); which is most definitely not going to happen. My goal is 4:30, but with the hills the first 8 miles, I will be very surprised if I am able to do that. Truly, I will be happy just to finish.
Today was supposed to be my 12 mile long run, but I was not feeling well at all, so did not get it done. Now I just have to decide if I will try to make it up, or will just continue with the training schedule. Of course, D's advice was to just continue with the scheduled runs. I know I've read that you should not try to make it up if you miss a run, but it feels like cheating.
Tomorrow morning is my interview on KSNT! Better get to bed and get plenty of rest. I'm so excited about this opportunity to share what we are doing. A special "thank you" to Cherie Sage, with Safe Kids Kansas, for arranging the interview. She and Daina have been so supportive and helpful!
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
A little more "catch up"
Okay, now pretend it is September 20, 2009. I'm going to get caught up one of these days!
For the most part, the tempo runs and speedwork have been going very well. They are challenging, but I can usually get them done okay. The hard ones are the long runs; and sometimes the hardest thing is finding the time to get it done.
My long run this last weekend was 16 miles. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to get out there to run until Sunday afternoon. After such a beautiful day on Saturday, I had not realized Sunday was going to be so hot; 87 degrees at 2:30 in the afternoon when I started. The running itself went fairly well, I just took short walking breaks every two miles in the beginning and every mile near the end. After a cool-down and stretching, there were no leg cramps, so that was good.
D was not here this weekend, so I had to take care of water/PowerAde stops for myself. I ran on the Prairie Spirit Rail Trail south of Ottawa again, so relatively flat and on crushed gravel most of the way. I just drove ahead and put drinks at the intersections every two miles and then carried the bottles back with me. Even that part was okay, since there is a small picnic area with trashcans in Princeton. (Sorry, no recycling for those bottles)
What was kind of weird was how tired I was driving home. It was 7:00 pm when I was driving on 59 highway back to Lawrence and I kept yawning and was very drowsy. Once I got home, I just basically fell into bed and slept until the alarm woke me at 5:30 the next morning. Guess that run kinda kicked my rear! Oh well, by the end of the day on Monday I was feeling like myself again. Really there was not much choice about running in the heat, as I had other commitments the rest of the weekend. It was either run when I did, or skip the run and I was not willing to do that.
Next week is my "recovery" week, so just three easy runs; two 6-milers and one 7-mile. Never thought I would consider those to be short, easy runs, but I do now.
There is so much going on now. Fundraising is picking up and Safe Kids Kansas is being very supportive with posting links on their website and doing a special fundraiser at work! They've also been in touch with local media in Topeka. Looks like I may do a short interview on KSNT's Morning Show! That's a little scary for me, especially since it is live. At least with taped interviews, they can edit out the parts where I look/sound like a complete airhead, LOL. I guess I just need to keep reminding myself; this is not about me. It is about helping spread the message about keeping babies safe when they are sleeping; and I will do whatever I can to help get that word out!
What a blessing to be a part of such a worthwhile cause! Thank you Safe Kids Douglas County, Safe Kids Kansas, Safe Kids USA, and Safe Kids WorldWide for making this possible!
For the most part, the tempo runs and speedwork have been going very well. They are challenging, but I can usually get them done okay. The hard ones are the long runs; and sometimes the hardest thing is finding the time to get it done.
My long run this last weekend was 16 miles. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to get out there to run until Sunday afternoon. After such a beautiful day on Saturday, I had not realized Sunday was going to be so hot; 87 degrees at 2:30 in the afternoon when I started. The running itself went fairly well, I just took short walking breaks every two miles in the beginning and every mile near the end. After a cool-down and stretching, there were no leg cramps, so that was good.
D was not here this weekend, so I had to take care of water/PowerAde stops for myself. I ran on the Prairie Spirit Rail Trail south of Ottawa again, so relatively flat and on crushed gravel most of the way. I just drove ahead and put drinks at the intersections every two miles and then carried the bottles back with me. Even that part was okay, since there is a small picnic area with trashcans in Princeton. (Sorry, no recycling for those bottles)
What was kind of weird was how tired I was driving home. It was 7:00 pm when I was driving on 59 highway back to Lawrence and I kept yawning and was very drowsy. Once I got home, I just basically fell into bed and slept until the alarm woke me at 5:30 the next morning. Guess that run kinda kicked my rear! Oh well, by the end of the day on Monday I was feeling like myself again. Really there was not much choice about running in the heat, as I had other commitments the rest of the weekend. It was either run when I did, or skip the run and I was not willing to do that.
Next week is my "recovery" week, so just three easy runs; two 6-milers and one 7-mile. Never thought I would consider those to be short, easy runs, but I do now.
There is so much going on now. Fundraising is picking up and Safe Kids Kansas is being very supportive with posting links on their website and doing a special fundraiser at work! They've also been in touch with local media in Topeka. Looks like I may do a short interview on KSNT's Morning Show! That's a little scary for me, especially since it is live. At least with taped interviews, they can edit out the parts where I look/sound like a complete airhead, LOL. I guess I just need to keep reminding myself; this is not about me. It is about helping spread the message about keeping babies safe when they are sleeping; and I will do whatever I can to help get that word out!
What a blessing to be a part of such a worthwhile cause! Thank you Safe Kids Douglas County, Safe Kids Kansas, Safe Kids USA, and Safe Kids WorldWide for making this possible!
Playing "Catch Up"
Pretend it is September 14, 2009; which is when I should have written the next update.
Traveled to Washington, DC for the first time this past weekend! While I was there, I ran 20 miles for the first time in my life. Due to the tens of thousands of people in town for the 9/12 March, we decided not to try and run the actual race course. Instead, I ran on the Mount Vernon Trail, much of which is in the vicinity of the race. D rode his bike and carried water and PowerAde for me as usual. I also tried Clif Shot Blocks for the first time and really liked them much better than any of the gels I have tried.
For the first 13 - 14 miles, I was thinking it had been a very good thing to train during summer in Kansas for a race in DC in October. About mile 14 I started having trouble breathing (darn asthma anyway!) and had to take frequent walking breaks; some of them quite long. I didn't take my inhaler with me, as I had used it before running, but guess I am going to make a change and start taking it with me. The good news is, I finished the 20 miles, and was able to pick my pace back up during the last mile and finish (sorta) strong. It took awhile of walking to cool down and get rid of the leg cramps, but once they were gone, they didn't return.
On Sunday, we drove the course. The first 8 miles scared the crud out of me! I kept saying to poor D, "I'm waiting for the flat part." However, after those first 8 miles, the rest is relatively flat. If you look on the Marine Corps website, they have a virtual course, which is very cool. Having just been there, I was actually able to follow it pretty well.
The weird thing was, once I got off the plane on Friday night, I felt pretty good. No leftover yuckies from being sick on Thursday. But, right after we landed back in Kansas, my sinuses started up with the nonsense all over again! Figure that one out, since the blood tests say I have no allergies...
Although I wish the whole run had been as good as the first half, the run in DC this weekend was a pretty good confidence builder. Thinking I'm really going to be able to do this!
Traveled to Washington, DC for the first time this past weekend! While I was there, I ran 20 miles for the first time in my life. Due to the tens of thousands of people in town for the 9/12 March, we decided not to try and run the actual race course. Instead, I ran on the Mount Vernon Trail, much of which is in the vicinity of the race. D rode his bike and carried water and PowerAde for me as usual. I also tried Clif Shot Blocks for the first time and really liked them much better than any of the gels I have tried.
For the first 13 - 14 miles, I was thinking it had been a very good thing to train during summer in Kansas for a race in DC in October. About mile 14 I started having trouble breathing (darn asthma anyway!) and had to take frequent walking breaks; some of them quite long. I didn't take my inhaler with me, as I had used it before running, but guess I am going to make a change and start taking it with me. The good news is, I finished the 20 miles, and was able to pick my pace back up during the last mile and finish (sorta) strong. It took awhile of walking to cool down and get rid of the leg cramps, but once they were gone, they didn't return.
On Sunday, we drove the course. The first 8 miles scared the crud out of me! I kept saying to poor D, "I'm waiting for the flat part." However, after those first 8 miles, the rest is relatively flat. If you look on the Marine Corps website, they have a virtual course, which is very cool. Having just been there, I was actually able to follow it pretty well.
The weird thing was, once I got off the plane on Friday night, I felt pretty good. No leftover yuckies from being sick on Thursday. But, right after we landed back in Kansas, my sinuses started up with the nonsense all over again! Figure that one out, since the blood tests say I have no allergies...
Although I wish the whole run had been as good as the first half, the run in DC this weekend was a pretty good confidence builder. Thinking I'm really going to be able to do this!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Training update
Despite my best intentions, it has once again been awhile since I've been able to update my blog. I will keep trying to do better!
What a great Labor Day weekend! Since I worked at the KU football game on Saturday and celebrated my birthday with family & D (at a surprise BBQ!) on Sunday, my long run was delayed until Monday. The weather was almost perfect; although a little humid, it was pretty cool and the 18-mile run felt great! Best of all - no leg cramps afterward! :-) Maybe I am finally getting this hydration thing down. Also, I got to use my new Garmin Forerunner, which was a birthday gift from D. What a wonderful training tool and a much-appreciated gift!
The one bad spot in the weekend was walking out my front door to discover someone had stolen my son's bike from my patio. Evidently they used cable cutters to cut through the lock. On my long runs, D has been riding the bike and carrying the water and PowerAde for me. There is no way I could carry that amount of liquid with me, and obviously no way to run that far without it.
I ran along the trail next to the South Lawrence trafficway, which was perfect since it is about 9 miles one-way. Since we didn't have a bike for D to ride, he dropped me off at the starting point and then drove to several spots along the trail and left bottles for me then picked them up after I had gone back through the second time. He also checked in with me several times during the run, making sure I was doing okay and encouraging me like he always does, and then picked me up when I had finished. Keep in mind this run took me a little over 3 1/2 hours. How many people are gonna give up their morning for someone else like he did?
Two other people who have been helpful are my mother and my sister since they have stayed with my grandkids a couple of times so I could do my long run. My daughter-in-law is in the Navy Reserves and the children often stay with me at least part of the time while she is gone for drills each month since my son works alternating shifts. Not thinking the kiddos could have run that far :-)
This Tuesday evening, I had my 2-mile easy run, which was on the treadmill since it was raining. Once upon a time, 2 miles was a long run for me. Now it seems like I haven't even done a workout if that is all I do, but gotta follow what the training plan says.
Also, donations are really starting to pick up, which is wonderful since we are trying to meet our goal by September 15, so SK USA will help cover a portion of the travel and lodging costs. This will help keep put more of the funds toward the Safe Sleep initiative. We are so excited about the potential to share the video statewide and maybe even to a larger area! Everything I hear about how the video production is going is very exciting. It sounds like it is going to be wonderful and I can't wait to see it!
Now I've managed to catch some kind of a virus or something; not feeling well at all today and didn't go to work. Slept most of the morning. I almost never get sick, so am not very patient when I do. I have too much to do to be sick! Guessing I don't look so good either. I wanted OJ and of course don't have any, so went to Sonic to get one. The car-hop (who sees me on a regular basis) asked if I had a bad headache or something. I'm taking good care of myself though. Really don't want to mess up my plans for this weekend, so have to get feeling better.
I am planning to fly to Washington, DC tomorrow to spend the weekend with D, who is working there right now. This weekend's run is 20 miles and my plan is to run as much as I can on the USMC marathon course! I've so been looking forward to this, have to get feeling better.
The other thing that stinks about being sick is that I missed an opportunity to be on a local radio show with John D. this morning. John visited with Hank Booth on his show, "According to the Record" on KLWN about the Safe Kids Douglas County Safe Sleep (for babies) initiative. Since I was feeling so out of it, I slept right through the show and didn't even get to listen. No doubt John did fine without me and I'm sure he also mentioned the marathon fundraiser. I just feel really bad that I couldn't do my part. This was not an opportunity that comes along every day!
Well, I'm starting to feel pretty tired again, so think I will go take a nap. Gotta get better!
What a great Labor Day weekend! Since I worked at the KU football game on Saturday and celebrated my birthday with family & D (at a surprise BBQ!) on Sunday, my long run was delayed until Monday. The weather was almost perfect; although a little humid, it was pretty cool and the 18-mile run felt great! Best of all - no leg cramps afterward! :-) Maybe I am finally getting this hydration thing down. Also, I got to use my new Garmin Forerunner, which was a birthday gift from D. What a wonderful training tool and a much-appreciated gift!
The one bad spot in the weekend was walking out my front door to discover someone had stolen my son's bike from my patio. Evidently they used cable cutters to cut through the lock. On my long runs, D has been riding the bike and carrying the water and PowerAde for me. There is no way I could carry that amount of liquid with me, and obviously no way to run that far without it.
I ran along the trail next to the South Lawrence trafficway, which was perfect since it is about 9 miles one-way. Since we didn't have a bike for D to ride, he dropped me off at the starting point and then drove to several spots along the trail and left bottles for me then picked them up after I had gone back through the second time. He also checked in with me several times during the run, making sure I was doing okay and encouraging me like he always does, and then picked me up when I had finished. Keep in mind this run took me a little over 3 1/2 hours. How many people are gonna give up their morning for someone else like he did?
Two other people who have been helpful are my mother and my sister since they have stayed with my grandkids a couple of times so I could do my long run. My daughter-in-law is in the Navy Reserves and the children often stay with me at least part of the time while she is gone for drills each month since my son works alternating shifts. Not thinking the kiddos could have run that far :-)
This Tuesday evening, I had my 2-mile easy run, which was on the treadmill since it was raining. Once upon a time, 2 miles was a long run for me. Now it seems like I haven't even done a workout if that is all I do, but gotta follow what the training plan says.
Also, donations are really starting to pick up, which is wonderful since we are trying to meet our goal by September 15, so SK USA will help cover a portion of the travel and lodging costs. This will help keep put more of the funds toward the Safe Sleep initiative. We are so excited about the potential to share the video statewide and maybe even to a larger area! Everything I hear about how the video production is going is very exciting. It sounds like it is going to be wonderful and I can't wait to see it!
Now I've managed to catch some kind of a virus or something; not feeling well at all today and didn't go to work. Slept most of the morning. I almost never get sick, so am not very patient when I do. I have too much to do to be sick! Guessing I don't look so good either. I wanted OJ and of course don't have any, so went to Sonic to get one. The car-hop (who sees me on a regular basis) asked if I had a bad headache or something. I'm taking good care of myself though. Really don't want to mess up my plans for this weekend, so have to get feeling better.
I am planning to fly to Washington, DC tomorrow to spend the weekend with D, who is working there right now. This weekend's run is 20 miles and my plan is to run as much as I can on the USMC marathon course! I've so been looking forward to this, have to get feeling better.
The other thing that stinks about being sick is that I missed an opportunity to be on a local radio show with John D. this morning. John visited with Hank Booth on his show, "According to the Record" on KLWN about the Safe Kids Douglas County Safe Sleep (for babies) initiative. Since I was feeling so out of it, I slept right through the show and didn't even get to listen. No doubt John did fine without me and I'm sure he also mentioned the marathon fundraiser. I just feel really bad that I couldn't do my part. This was not an opportunity that comes along every day!
Well, I'm starting to feel pretty tired again, so think I will go take a nap. Gotta get better!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
What do you mean I have to learn lessons AND train at the same time?
First off, I feel badly that it has taken me so long to post again. My goal was to say a little something at least after every couple of runs. Who knew it was going to be so hard to find the time to write a blog? Okay, there are probably a number of people who could have told me that, but chances are I wouldn't have listened. Sometimes I am still like a teenager and have to learn all of my lessons on my own, instead of learning from others' experiences.
There is this tendency to think such things don't apply to me; after all I can do it all, right? LOL, don't I wish! The same goes with some of the lessons I've already had to learn. I will try to keep this pretty brief, but I have several little "lessons" I will share. At first, I was not going to write about some of these; I mean, after all, who wants to publicize being humbled and learning you are not "wonder woman"? However, this little voice in my head kept nagging at me, so here we go...
One of my first humbling experiences came during week 2 when I didn't plan very well. I usually donate during blood drives at work, and whenever they need it, I will typically donate a double unit of red blood cells through apheresis. It was not until I got to work that morning that I realized I had a decision to make; either not donate or skip the speedwork I was supposed to do that evening. After donating, you are supposed to avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours. Well, I'd made the commitment to donate blood, so went in for my appointment, and yes they needed double units of A+ red blood cells. During the process, I started asking questions; basically about how to get around the rules and go ahead and do my speedwork. I was kinda pushy I guess, but never got anybody to approve of what I was planning. However, I decided if I ate a really good meal and hydrated really well and made sure I was at the gym for my workout (so someone could catch me when I came flying off the treadmill, I guess), then I could still do both things and not have to sacrifice either. Why do I have to do things the hard way? Okay, I didn't faint or anything, but I was only able to get halfway through my workout and then was really exhausted the next day. Can anybody say, "Big Picture, Tina". Yes, now I realize I could have really messed things up and not been able to run in the race at all, but sometimes I am a slow learner.
A couple of weeks later after an easy 5-mile run, I guess I didn't hydrate very well. You will see this issue again, as I guess I am not a very good judge of how much I am drinking. After running, I came home and thought I ate pretty well and drank plenty of fluids. I fell asleep in the recliner watching tv. One of the rare occasions for watching tv, maybe that was the problem. Anyway, when I woke up and went to bed, I noticed a little nagging headache, but didn't take the time to take anything for it, thinking it would be gone in the morning. I woke up a couple of times during the night and was really thirsty, but never got up and got a drink. Next thing I know, I'm waking up with a horrible migraine. Migraines are a relatively new thing for me in the last few years, and for some reason being dehydrated seems to trigger one. Long story short, I didn't feel even halfway human again until mid-afternoon.
Now, I don't want to give the wrong impression. Overall, the training is going really well. With the exception of week 2, I've been able to meet my speedwork goals every time. Last Wednesday, for example I ran a total of 7 miles, with 3 of those at a 9:05 pace and 1/2 mile recovery jogs in between each mile. I felt good during and after the run. And, on all of my tempo runs I have been able to maintain my goal pace of 9:43/mile the whole time (5 - 6 miles). More experienced and younger runners probably think that is pretty slow, but for me it's a challenge. Seems to be just right though, as it is hard enough to make me really work, but not so hard that I can't do it. Again, I've been feeling good during and after each of those runs.
My other experience with not staying hydrated was after the 12-mile long run on August 8. I ran well, maintained my goal pace and was taking fluid breaks every mile. I had mixed powdered Gatorade at 1/2 of full-strength, since I didn't have any way to take two different containers. During a race, I will usually alternate between water and Gatorade. I was feeling a little tired by the end of the run, but nothing unusual. All I had in my car to drink was what was left of my morning cappucino and I finished that off while I was walking around to cool down. After about 15 minutes, I decided I would stretch at home, since it was less than a 10-minute drive.
I had just entered the roundabout to get on the turnpike when severe leg cramps hit in both calves. Never, ever before have I experienced anything like that. I got pulled off the turnpike right after getting on, even though there was barely any shoulder since it was in a construction zone. There was no choice, as I could not move either of my feet. Once I was able to get out of the car and walk, I was okay until I tried to sit back down. Eventually, I managed to get back in the car and drive home. A big thank-you though, goes to the construction worker who not only came over from the construction site to check on me, but when he was leaving and saw that I was still there, pulled up behind my car and waited until I was able to drive. He followed me down to my exit and all the way to the toll booth before he turned around and went on his way. It was a very kind and thoughtful thing to do and of course, I have no idea what his name is. Maybe some day I will be able to say "thank you" again.
Last weekend was the farthest I have ever run: 14 miles! Without the help of D, who rode along on the bike and carried two big bottles of Powerade, I am not sure I would have made it. There is no way I could have carried the amount of fluids I drank on this run. Along with carrying the Powerade, he kept encouraging me and telling me how well I was doing. He also noticed the 3' long snake that was on the trail and made me stop while he scared it away. It was not a friendly snake and it was near the end of my run. I was looking about 3 feet in front of myself, because to look straight ahead made it seem like I still had soooo far to go. I would not have seen that snake until I was almost on top of it, or until it bit me.
Since I did not do so well at getting out of bed that morning, we got a later start than we should have. It was pretty hot and humid, so I was struggling to breathe the last few miles, and my pace was a little slower than the training schedule showed. Just the running part took about 3 hours, and when you add in getting the bike ready, driving to and from, etc., D gave up a big chunk of his day to be my "athletic supporter" (Ha Ha). I hope I was able to communicate just how much that meant to me and how much I appreciate the support and encouragement. And to top it all off - no leg or foot cramps at all!!! After a little bit to eat and a bit more to drink, I took a shower and a nap and felt great. My legs were not even very sore the next day!
Last night was an easy 2 miles, and I am resting tonight. And to make things even better, today I got my first donation (besides my own) made through my page on the Team Safe Kids website! Thank you Lisa!
I've had a couple of people, including my mother (sorry Mom!) tell me they didn't know how to make a donation. The link right to my page is in the Links menu at the top right of this blog. After getting to the page, it's pretty easy to walk through the steps to donate. Of course, I can personally accept donations and will forward them on after entering them. And for those who prefer, it is easy to remain anonymous and not have your name posted with your donation. Also, you will receive a thank-you receipt for use with your tax return.
I've read about how important it is to get plenty of rest, so think I will head to bed. To help keep each entry from being so long, I will try to do better at posting a little more often. Good night!
There is this tendency to think such things don't apply to me; after all I can do it all, right? LOL, don't I wish! The same goes with some of the lessons I've already had to learn. I will try to keep this pretty brief, but I have several little "lessons" I will share. At first, I was not going to write about some of these; I mean, after all, who wants to publicize being humbled and learning you are not "wonder woman"? However, this little voice in my head kept nagging at me, so here we go...
One of my first humbling experiences came during week 2 when I didn't plan very well. I usually donate during blood drives at work, and whenever they need it, I will typically donate a double unit of red blood cells through apheresis. It was not until I got to work that morning that I realized I had a decision to make; either not donate or skip the speedwork I was supposed to do that evening. After donating, you are supposed to avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours. Well, I'd made the commitment to donate blood, so went in for my appointment, and yes they needed double units of A+ red blood cells. During the process, I started asking questions; basically about how to get around the rules and go ahead and do my speedwork. I was kinda pushy I guess, but never got anybody to approve of what I was planning. However, I decided if I ate a really good meal and hydrated really well and made sure I was at the gym for my workout (so someone could catch me when I came flying off the treadmill, I guess), then I could still do both things and not have to sacrifice either. Why do I have to do things the hard way? Okay, I didn't faint or anything, but I was only able to get halfway through my workout and then was really exhausted the next day. Can anybody say, "Big Picture, Tina". Yes, now I realize I could have really messed things up and not been able to run in the race at all, but sometimes I am a slow learner.
A couple of weeks later after an easy 5-mile run, I guess I didn't hydrate very well. You will see this issue again, as I guess I am not a very good judge of how much I am drinking. After running, I came home and thought I ate pretty well and drank plenty of fluids. I fell asleep in the recliner watching tv. One of the rare occasions for watching tv, maybe that was the problem. Anyway, when I woke up and went to bed, I noticed a little nagging headache, but didn't take the time to take anything for it, thinking it would be gone in the morning. I woke up a couple of times during the night and was really thirsty, but never got up and got a drink. Next thing I know, I'm waking up with a horrible migraine. Migraines are a relatively new thing for me in the last few years, and for some reason being dehydrated seems to trigger one. Long story short, I didn't feel even halfway human again until mid-afternoon.
Now, I don't want to give the wrong impression. Overall, the training is going really well. With the exception of week 2, I've been able to meet my speedwork goals every time. Last Wednesday, for example I ran a total of 7 miles, with 3 of those at a 9:05 pace and 1/2 mile recovery jogs in between each mile. I felt good during and after the run. And, on all of my tempo runs I have been able to maintain my goal pace of 9:43/mile the whole time (5 - 6 miles). More experienced and younger runners probably think that is pretty slow, but for me it's a challenge. Seems to be just right though, as it is hard enough to make me really work, but not so hard that I can't do it. Again, I've been feeling good during and after each of those runs.
My other experience with not staying hydrated was after the 12-mile long run on August 8. I ran well, maintained my goal pace and was taking fluid breaks every mile. I had mixed powdered Gatorade at 1/2 of full-strength, since I didn't have any way to take two different containers. During a race, I will usually alternate between water and Gatorade. I was feeling a little tired by the end of the run, but nothing unusual. All I had in my car to drink was what was left of my morning cappucino and I finished that off while I was walking around to cool down. After about 15 minutes, I decided I would stretch at home, since it was less than a 10-minute drive.
I had just entered the roundabout to get on the turnpike when severe leg cramps hit in both calves. Never, ever before have I experienced anything like that. I got pulled off the turnpike right after getting on, even though there was barely any shoulder since it was in a construction zone. There was no choice, as I could not move either of my feet. Once I was able to get out of the car and walk, I was okay until I tried to sit back down. Eventually, I managed to get back in the car and drive home. A big thank-you though, goes to the construction worker who not only came over from the construction site to check on me, but when he was leaving and saw that I was still there, pulled up behind my car and waited until I was able to drive. He followed me down to my exit and all the way to the toll booth before he turned around and went on his way. It was a very kind and thoughtful thing to do and of course, I have no idea what his name is. Maybe some day I will be able to say "thank you" again.
Last weekend was the farthest I have ever run: 14 miles! Without the help of D, who rode along on the bike and carried two big bottles of Powerade, I am not sure I would have made it. There is no way I could have carried the amount of fluids I drank on this run. Along with carrying the Powerade, he kept encouraging me and telling me how well I was doing. He also noticed the 3' long snake that was on the trail and made me stop while he scared it away. It was not a friendly snake and it was near the end of my run. I was looking about 3 feet in front of myself, because to look straight ahead made it seem like I still had soooo far to go. I would not have seen that snake until I was almost on top of it, or until it bit me.
Since I did not do so well at getting out of bed that morning, we got a later start than we should have. It was pretty hot and humid, so I was struggling to breathe the last few miles, and my pace was a little slower than the training schedule showed. Just the running part took about 3 hours, and when you add in getting the bike ready, driving to and from, etc., D gave up a big chunk of his day to be my "athletic supporter" (Ha Ha). I hope I was able to communicate just how much that meant to me and how much I appreciate the support and encouragement. And to top it all off - no leg or foot cramps at all!!! After a little bit to eat and a bit more to drink, I took a shower and a nap and felt great. My legs were not even very sore the next day!
Last night was an easy 2 miles, and I am resting tonight. And to make things even better, today I got my first donation (besides my own) made through my page on the Team Safe Kids website! Thank you Lisa!
I've had a couple of people, including my mother (sorry Mom!) tell me they didn't know how to make a donation. The link right to my page is in the Links menu at the top right of this blog. After getting to the page, it's pretty easy to walk through the steps to donate. Of course, I can personally accept donations and will forward them on after entering them. And for those who prefer, it is easy to remain anonymous and not have your name posted with your donation. Also, you will receive a thank-you receipt for use with your tax return.
I've read about how important it is to get plenty of rest, so think I will head to bed. To help keep each entry from being so long, I will try to do better at posting a little more often. Good night!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Time to kick it up a notch...
Allllllrighty then! After an "easy" week, it is definitely time to start training a little harder. A total of 6 miles last night, with 4 of them at a 9:40 pace - which for me is a pretty good clip. Remember, I run sloooowwww. Actually, last night's run was great. I maintained the pace just like I was supposed to, and since I was inside on the treadmill, I was able to breathe without huffing and puffing. My preference is to run outside whenever possible. When the humidity is high, I don't have a lot of choice thanks to exercise-induced asthma. Never had asthma until a couple of years ago. It is rather annoying, but went to the doc today and will be trying something new to see if it helps. Feeling very hopeful that it will work.
Want to say thanks to a friend for running 5 miles with me on Saturday. I happened to be in my hometown of Ottawa and sent a text message hoping to have a running companion on the Prairie Spirit Rail Trail. As it turns out, he was able to join me. We had a good run and some good conversation as well. I miss the trail - used to run on it all the time. Now, it seems kinda silly to drive for 40 minutes just so I can; especially just for a 5-miler. It is similar to running on the levee in Lawrence, soft (tiny gravel) and relatively flat. But the nice thing about the rail trail is the shade. In this weather it really helps.
This weekend - 12 miles! And next weekend - 14 - my longest run ever. Thinking the rail trail looks very attractive for those long runs. Especially if I can get out there early in the morning. Looks like this weekend I'll be on my own though. My friend in Ottawa said 5 or so is far enough for him right now. Believe I'll have company for the 14, if somebody who's hanging out on the East coast will get himself back here. :-) Except he will probably be on a bike instead of running. That's okay; I really appreciate the support and the company. There are also those days when I cherish the solitude of my long runs. It is often hard for some to understand, but it is wonderful stress relief; just me and my Ipod.
Looking forward to tomorrow evening as well. Supposed to do 2 easy miles. Planning to go run with the girls on the trail out at Clinton Lake. I'm so thankful for the friend who invited me to join them. Trail running is very different from pounding the road. It's nice to mix things up every once in awhile and the trail works different muscles. As long as I don't twist an ankle or break any bones, we're good.
And boy, am I looking forward to next week (too bad you can't hear the sarcasm) - speedwork... Although I love the payoff, and sometimes I actually enjoy the speedwork. It's just not usually my favorite. I'll do three one-mile repeats at just over a 9:00 minute pace, with 1/2 mile jogs in between. Those speed intervals are really good training (I'll just keep telling myself that). They really are. :-)
Spent a little time this morning with part of the Safe Sleep team. It is really exciting to talk about all of the opportunities for helping to spread the message. Looks likely we will be able to share the video statewide (and maybe further...???). It is such a blessing to work with such enthusiastic, creative individuals who are committed to children's safety! Once again, I am so thankful for this opportunity to help make a difference in the lives of children and their families. This is a wonderful experience!
Want to say thanks to a friend for running 5 miles with me on Saturday. I happened to be in my hometown of Ottawa and sent a text message hoping to have a running companion on the Prairie Spirit Rail Trail. As it turns out, he was able to join me. We had a good run and some good conversation as well. I miss the trail - used to run on it all the time. Now, it seems kinda silly to drive for 40 minutes just so I can; especially just for a 5-miler. It is similar to running on the levee in Lawrence, soft (tiny gravel) and relatively flat. But the nice thing about the rail trail is the shade. In this weather it really helps.
This weekend - 12 miles! And next weekend - 14 - my longest run ever. Thinking the rail trail looks very attractive for those long runs. Especially if I can get out there early in the morning. Looks like this weekend I'll be on my own though. My friend in Ottawa said 5 or so is far enough for him right now. Believe I'll have company for the 14, if somebody who's hanging out on the East coast will get himself back here. :-) Except he will probably be on a bike instead of running. That's okay; I really appreciate the support and the company. There are also those days when I cherish the solitude of my long runs. It is often hard for some to understand, but it is wonderful stress relief; just me and my Ipod.
Looking forward to tomorrow evening as well. Supposed to do 2 easy miles. Planning to go run with the girls on the trail out at Clinton Lake. I'm so thankful for the friend who invited me to join them. Trail running is very different from pounding the road. It's nice to mix things up every once in awhile and the trail works different muscles. As long as I don't twist an ankle or break any bones, we're good.
And boy, am I looking forward to next week (too bad you can't hear the sarcasm) - speedwork... Although I love the payoff, and sometimes I actually enjoy the speedwork. It's just not usually my favorite. I'll do three one-mile repeats at just over a 9:00 minute pace, with 1/2 mile jogs in between. Those speed intervals are really good training (I'll just keep telling myself that). They really are. :-)
Spent a little time this morning with part of the Safe Sleep team. It is really exciting to talk about all of the opportunities for helping to spread the message. Looks likely we will be able to share the video statewide (and maybe further...???). It is such a blessing to work with such enthusiastic, creative individuals who are committed to children's safety! Once again, I am so thankful for this opportunity to help make a difference in the lives of children and their families. This is a wonderful experience!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Time is just flying by so quickly! It is hard to believe that I am already nearing the end of my 4th week of "official" training. Almost 1/4 of the way there, it doesn't really seem possible.
This week has been an "easy" or recovery week; just three easy 5-mile runs. I can remember when 5 miles was a long run for me. The first time I ran 5 was just over two years ago, at a Dog Days Saturday morning run. I remember how excited I was. Funny thing is that now I don't really feel like I've done a whole lot if I run less than five. I guess it is all relative, huh?
For those of you asking, "what in the world is Dog Days?", check out the link to the website on the right. Basically it is a community workout group, with hundreds of participants on a daily basis, and over 2800 on a recent Wednesday! Don "Red Dog" Gardner has been leading this group, with help from his wife and a number of volunteers for more than 25 years. They do an incredible job and getting a "Dog Days" t-shirt is quite an accomplishment; one I have not yet attained, although several of my friends have.
The training plan I am using (I'm sure it has a name, but I haven't a clue) includes just three runs a week, each with a very specific purpose: an easy run, either speed work or a tempo run, and a long run. In two weeks, my long run will be the farthest I've ever gone - 14 miles. The long run will increase by 2 miles each week for three weeks and then I'll have an easy week like this one. Most often the long run is on Saturday, but occasionally it has to be on Sunday (or Monday).
A year ago in September, I ran my first half-marathon, followed in October by my second. Then in April was number three, which was here in Lawrence and the first time any of my family had been able to come watch. I was so excited to have them there, but I wish the weather had been better for them. I enjoyed the temperature while I was running, but was not so crazy about the wind. That last mile just about kicked my butt; uphill from 23rd St. to the Lied Center and directly into the wind, which was gusting pretty hard. I don't know for certain, but it seemed like at least 20-30 mph gusts. When I got to the finish line, my beautiful grandaughter Sierra asked me through her little chattering teeth, "What took you so long Grandma? Bless her heart; honey your grandma runs SLOW!!! One of the coolest things was my middle sister taping the race at several different spots along the way and then later presenting me with a DVD she'd made for me. Another was the support of some friends who drove over from Shawnee and from a special person who drove ahead to a number of different spots and would then run beside me for a while and tell me how great I was doing, and then jump in the car and drive to the next spot. I am so thankful for all of my family and friends; I hope all of them know how much they mean to me.
Some days are easier than others when it comes to getting my run in. This evening was great, since it was only 73 degrees when I ran, but the humidity was like 70-some % and I really struggle with breathing when the humidity is that high. Good thing I was supposed to be running slow. Sometimes if it is too hot or humid, I run inside on the treadmill; 8 miles the other day. Thank heavens (and a special person) for my iPod. Without the music, I am not sure I could run that far on a treadmill. Much prefer the outdoors. Looking forward to running on the trail tomorrow night - that's gonna be my "cross-training" since it uses differnt muscles. I really enjoy running the trails with the girls.
Some of you may have noticed the dedication in the upper right corner, and realized that last week my nephew would have been 11. Those days when it is hard to get out there, I remember that little guy we barely got to know and why this race is important to me and usually that is all I need to get me moving. Sometimes life (or migraines) get in the way; but thankfully I have someone who helps remind me that missing a day or delaying a run by a day (or two) does not mean I am a failure. Junk happens.
And sometimes what happens is good stuff. My sister gave me permission to share some special news: after 11 years of waiting, she is going to have another baby boy in December! He will be a very welcome Christmas gift for our family and we are all looking forward to his arrival. Life is full of blessings.
This week has been an "easy" or recovery week; just three easy 5-mile runs. I can remember when 5 miles was a long run for me. The first time I ran 5 was just over two years ago, at a Dog Days Saturday morning run. I remember how excited I was. Funny thing is that now I don't really feel like I've done a whole lot if I run less than five. I guess it is all relative, huh?
For those of you asking, "what in the world is Dog Days?", check out the link to the website on the right. Basically it is a community workout group, with hundreds of participants on a daily basis, and over 2800 on a recent Wednesday! Don "Red Dog" Gardner has been leading this group, with help from his wife and a number of volunteers for more than 25 years. They do an incredible job and getting a "Dog Days" t-shirt is quite an accomplishment; one I have not yet attained, although several of my friends have.
The training plan I am using (I'm sure it has a name, but I haven't a clue) includes just three runs a week, each with a very specific purpose: an easy run, either speed work or a tempo run, and a long run. In two weeks, my long run will be the farthest I've ever gone - 14 miles. The long run will increase by 2 miles each week for three weeks and then I'll have an easy week like this one. Most often the long run is on Saturday, but occasionally it has to be on Sunday (or Monday).
A year ago in September, I ran my first half-marathon, followed in October by my second. Then in April was number three, which was here in Lawrence and the first time any of my family had been able to come watch. I was so excited to have them there, but I wish the weather had been better for them. I enjoyed the temperature while I was running, but was not so crazy about the wind. That last mile just about kicked my butt; uphill from 23rd St. to the Lied Center and directly into the wind, which was gusting pretty hard. I don't know for certain, but it seemed like at least 20-30 mph gusts. When I got to the finish line, my beautiful grandaughter Sierra asked me through her little chattering teeth, "What took you so long Grandma? Bless her heart; honey your grandma runs SLOW!!! One of the coolest things was my middle sister taping the race at several different spots along the way and then later presenting me with a DVD she'd made for me. Another was the support of some friends who drove over from Shawnee and from a special person who drove ahead to a number of different spots and would then run beside me for a while and tell me how great I was doing, and then jump in the car and drive to the next spot. I am so thankful for all of my family and friends; I hope all of them know how much they mean to me.
Some days are easier than others when it comes to getting my run in. This evening was great, since it was only 73 degrees when I ran, but the humidity was like 70-some % and I really struggle with breathing when the humidity is that high. Good thing I was supposed to be running slow. Sometimes if it is too hot or humid, I run inside on the treadmill; 8 miles the other day. Thank heavens (and a special person) for my iPod. Without the music, I am not sure I could run that far on a treadmill. Much prefer the outdoors. Looking forward to running on the trail tomorrow night - that's gonna be my "cross-training" since it uses differnt muscles. I really enjoy running the trails with the girls.
Some of you may have noticed the dedication in the upper right corner, and realized that last week my nephew would have been 11. Those days when it is hard to get out there, I remember that little guy we barely got to know and why this race is important to me and usually that is all I need to get me moving. Sometimes life (or migraines) get in the way; but thankfully I have someone who helps remind me that missing a day or delaying a run by a day (or two) does not mean I am a failure. Junk happens.
And sometimes what happens is good stuff. My sister gave me permission to share some special news: after 11 years of waiting, she is going to have another baby boy in December! He will be a very welcome Christmas gift for our family and we are all looking forward to his arrival. Life is full of blessings.
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