Gotta Run!

Sports Bra vs. Speedos

2011-12-20T21:16:00.001-05:00

And with this, I'm back!

(Click the infograph to see it in full)

Running Music for a better running experience!

The Kindness of Friends

2011-04-16T10:32:00.002-04:00

The past few weeks have been a wild ride. My son, Stone, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. He spent 4 days in the hospital and is now on a daily insulin injection schedule.

Things are adjusting to the new normal, and Stone will be fine as long as he does what the doctor says.
I am thankful for the incredible support we have received from the running community. Lots of encouragement, kind words, thoughts and prayers. It is all appreciated!

One of the kindest things that was done was a plan hatched by my coach, Speedy Sasquatch. He called me the 3rd day Stone was in the hospital and said he was dedicating his Boston Marathon to Stone and would be raising money for the JDRF. I was touched. Moved to tears actually.

If you would like to contribute to the cause, you can: href="http://jdrfevents.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.eventDetails&eventID=945

Donate Here.

Better Late than Never

2011-03-28T19:52:00.002-04:00

My blog. My poor blog. I have been pulled in a million different directions and I keep meaning to blog. Yet it seems to be the first thing to go. But there are so many things I want to share with you. So many good things.

At the top of this blog I have a quote from former NBA player A.C. Green, "Tough times don't last but tough people do". I posted that so long ago when times were tough. When I couldn't get my running game together. I was drowning and was desperate for a life preserver.

Training has still been going well - and I've been running and I've been happy. At the beginning of the month I ran a 1/2 marathon. The Orange Blossom 1/2 Marathon. This is the 2nd running of this race. The first year (2008) the course was 1/2 mile too long. I was confident that the distance had been corrected.

We started in a different spot and there were changes to the course - this year it was spot on.

The day before the race, I talked to my coach. He helped me put together a strategy for success. Earlier in the week he said 2:10 shouldn't be a problem. 2:10? Really? My last 1/2 in December was 2:17. Do you think? Really? I reminded myself that training has been going well, remember. splits had been consistently well under 10 minute miles. We continued to talk about the race plan and I realized we were flirting with PR territory. My PR of 2:08:43 from December 2006. The PR I thought I would never even come close to.

The weather man said we could expect rain on Sunday. Oh no! Not rain. But then the forecast changed that the rain would come later in the day. Whew!

The course ran along Lake Dora and the wind was tough. Despite the wind I was feeling good. I was feeling really good. And I was moving right along. I was passing people, not being passed by many and I was cruising right along.

I was keeping an eye on my pace. The plan was to work toward the last few miles being in the 9:40s - I think - geeze I need to write race reports while I still remember the details...

Mile 4 was 9:41. Was I going too fast? Was I going to crash and burn later? I didn't know, but I knew I was feeling good. Mile 8 was 9:19, Ummmmmm. Nothing changed. I was still feeling good and I was moving down the road. Quickly.

I had one eye on my Garmin and as I battled the wind I continued to just go. Mile 11: 9:30, Mile 12: 9:21, Mile 13: 9:13 so much for 9:40s. :-)

My time: 2:06:11

A new PR by 2:32. WOW! It was such a happy day for me. I proved to myself that hard work and consistency do pay off.

Next up for me: Earth Day 12K

Walt Disney Marathon | Race Report

2011-01-29T20:23:00.004-05:00

It's taken me 20 days to write this report. Between work and life, things have been pretty busy. As time marches on, I almost feel like it's too late to write this report, but it was such an incredible day and I really want to share it with you.

I decided again this year to stay at home and drive out to Disney on race morning. I had gone out to spectate the 1/2 marathon on Saturday and spent Saturday afternoon lounging, resting and watching TV. I laid out my gear, made dinner, spaghetti with pork sausage, and went to sleep early.

Sunday morning my alarm went off sometime before 3:00 AM and I was dressed and on the road shortly after. I planned to meet up with some friends at 4:15. We all met, took pictures and chatted. While we were chatting Lee from The Running Couple asked me what my goal was. He and his gorgeous wife, Isis had registered for the Goofy Race and Half Challenge. Isis decided to run the half only because she is pregnant. Lee was flying solo for the marathon.

Friday night, I talked with my coach, Speedy Sasquatch about my goal and the strategy. I had written everything down, read it over and over between Friday night and Sunday morning and I was confident I was going to meet the goal.

I told Lee what my goal was. He asked what corral I was in. I told him "D". He smiled and said he was in "D" also. He said my goal sounded good and we could run together.

The race started and we moved with the crowd, not expending a lot of energy weaving around people. Before the first mile the girl behind us who was skipping and singing loudly to the rap music she was listening to kicked the underside of my shoe. Thankfully, there was no harm, but I was annoyed.

Lee and I ran and talked. We talked and ran. The pace was comfortable and I was really enjoying the weather and the conversation. It really seemed effortless.

As we ran through the Transportation and Ticket Center we saw Marathon Chris and her daughter cheering for us. It is so awesome to have friends on the course!

We went through the Magic Kingdom and just like that we were at the half. The goal was to be at the half at 2:30 although Speedy Sasquatch said he thought I would be there before that. He was right and we cruised over the checkpoint at 2:21:37.

This is the part of the course that a lot people don't like. It's a back road, there is no crowd support, and even though Disney provides entertainment, I hear people complain about it. I have always really enjoyed this part of the course. I know we're almost to Animal Kingdom and I'm still having fun.

We ran through Animal Kingdom and as we passed the 18 mile mark, I looked at my Garmin and it was somewhere around 3:10. My 18 mile training run was 3:30 - although that was days after being pretty sick (It was the I missed two days of work type of sick). I was 20 minutes ahead of where I was on that day.

As we got close to water stop around mile 19 Lee, who had walked through the water stops and the catch up to me. Said "I'll try to catch up with you." Try? Uh oh.

It wasn't long and Lee was running with me again. As we approached the next water stop, right before mile 20 again Lee said, "I'll try to catch up with you." I kept going. After a few minutes, I was still running solo. I decided to put both headphones in and focus on moving forward. I was alone as I entered Hollywood Studios. I saw Jim in his usual spot, got a piece of chocolate and just kept going. I was happy to hear the "Herbie" theme music as I entered the park.

Outside the park I saw my friend Alett and she jumped out to give me a hug. I quickly hugged her without stopping and told her I thought I was on-track for a huge PR.

Right after I passed Alett, Lee ran up to my left side, like he had been there all along and started talking. What a great friend!

I was starting to hurt. I was tired, I was slowing, but we just kept going. I will admit that I was thinking "I bet I could walk the last mile and still sub 5 the race. Although I was thinking it, it was never an option.

Lee was talking me through the tough spots, making sure I wasn't slowing down too much. When we got to EPCOT, it was a blur. I remember mile 25 and thinking we were almost done and thinking the little bridge had to be the last hill. I remember America and the small incline and telling Lee about the forced perspective of the pavilion which is actually a seven story building. I remember passing through Germany. I remember passing through Mexico.

Lee asked me when I thought we should start pushing the pace. I told him once we made the turn toward Spaceship Earth, I'd be ready to go. We turned the corner and we were moving!

We were so close. Almost there. Nearly every race at Disney I have run has taken this same path to the finish. I could taste the finish line.

The choir. Where was the choir? The place I have seen them for years was empty. I was disappointed. I kept going. They moved the choir closer to the finish. Whew, there they were. So close. Almost there.

We could see the finish line and we threw down the final kick.

We were done! We finished!

My time: 4:49:51. A new PR.

A new PR by 24:43. A nearly 25 minute PR.

What an incredibly special day. Major thanks to Lee for staying with me and helping me not only Sub 5 the marathon, but sub 4:50 the marathon.

I also need to thank Speedy Sasquatch for helping me train smart, train right and get past the running demons that had clouded my running for so long. The day would not have been possible without his guidance and support.

Recovery has gone well, if not making me a little crazy. I've been fighting with a cranky tight hip, but it's a small bump in the road.

Next up for me is the Orange Blossom Half in Tavares on March 6th.

OUC 1/2 Marathon | Race Report

2010-12-07T19:02:00.005-05:00

My training has going well. Really well actually. In my last post I mentioned that the mojo has returned. I've been feeling good and I've have some pretty good runs of various distances lately.

I was feeling a little apprehensive in the days leading up to the race. I had run 10 miles the Sunday before with an average pace of 10:35. What if it was a fluke? What if I couldn't do it? I had been routinely keeping my pace in the 10's so the evidence was there that I could do it, but I found myself doubting my ability. I would quickly brush away the doubt and reminded myself that I could do it!

Friday night I cooked spaghetti with pork sausage and garlic bread. I've found through plenty of trial and error, that there is something about the pork sausage that works well for me. I ate and relaxed and laid down for bed just before 9:00 PM.

My alarm was set for 4:10 AM and I slept well. No issues with my morning routine. I got up, made a bagel with Nutella got dressed and headed for Orlando.

When you're on the road at 5:00 AM you're pretty much alone. I made good time and arrived in no time. I parking in the parking garage and made my way to my meeting point with Marathon Chris.

I had not seen Chris since Goofy, so it was so nice to catch up with her. While we were chatting @krystalrunner came up and said hello. She wasn't running the race, but was running and stopped by to say hi. She said she'd be just before mile 4 and somewhere around mile 12. I told her I'd keep an eye out for her!

It was a little chilly. Temperatures were probably in the upper 40's. I had labored over what to wear. I didn't want to be too hot, but I also wanted to be comfortable. The race offered bag check so Chris and I checked in bags with our jackets and decided to just tough it out. I was wearing a long sleeve tech shirt with a sleeveless tech shirt and arm sleeves underneath. I opted for a pair of longer than normal shorts. At the start I also had a pair of dollar throw away gloves. They were thrown before the first mile.

Waiting to Start

The race started at 7:00 AM, Chris and I said goodbye (we had a meeting place for after the race set) and we were off. We started west on Robinson Street with Lake Eola to the left. As I was running toward downtown "Hello City" by Barenaked Ladies came on my iPod. I thought that was fitting.

Right after I tossed my gloves I took off my long sleeve tech shirt. I thought about tossing it, but I've had it for a long time, and it's got my name on it. I decided to tie it around my waist and save it for another day.

Speedy Sasquatch had given me two goals.

Goal #1: Have Fun
Goal #2: Nothing in the 11's

I was moving along through the cool morning and soon I was at the first mile split. We passed about a block from the first place I lived in downtown Orlando. Then I was at the 2nd mile split. Wait. How'd I get to the 3rd mile? Can that be right?

Oh hey, there's Krystal. Mile 4.

We were winding through Orlando. Moving south, and east and south again. West. and North. We passed Michigan Street. I thought we were turning on Michigan. Where were we going. We turned down a side street that after 22+ years in the Orlando area, I had never been down. The road curved and eventually we popped out onto Michigan Street.

The course turned down Delaney Avenue. I was happy to see my friend Jim. Jim volunteers at Disney every year and you can find him at the mile 23 chocolate stop. (Dark Chocolate for me please Jim!) No chocolate from Jim this time, just some encouragement, which is always welcome.

At mile 9 I had maintained a 10:23 average pace. I was pleased. We were running on bricks and it was wearing me down. We turned off of Delaney onto Ponce de Leon on our way to Lake Avenue. We turned left on Lake Avenue and we ran along Lake Cherokee. We turned to the east down Palmer Avenue. We were a block away from the second place I lived in downtown Orlando.

A few blocks down Palmer and we were a block away from the third and final place I lived in downtown Orlando. Right before we turned onto Mills and mile 11 I say Krystal again. She gave me some much needed words of encouragement and I continued on my way. The mile split was just ahead and my Garmin beeped. 10:57. Oh no, that was a little too close to the 11 I wasn't supposed to go over. PICK IT UP SISTER!

Talking to Krystal

The bricks continued and I was feeling beat up, but I just kept going. I had to keep moving forward.

Soon the bricks ended and we were back on Robinson Street heading west. We passed the apartment building my sister lived in when she first moved to Orlando. I didn't live there, but I spent an awful lot of time there. We had just less than a mile to go.

I kept running. It was much better off the bricks and on the pavement. I was listening to some guys in their early 20's talking. One said he was going to wear his medal to work on Monday. The other one said he was going to wear his medal to graduation. What an accomplishment for both of them. Their conversation made me smile.

I crossed the finish line! 2:17:31 A new OUC course record for me. I'm a happy girl!

Victory!

It was a great race! I was happy to see Chris. I was happy to see Krystal (Thanks to her hubs for taking pictures! I'm honored). I was happy to have finally run a good OUC Half Marathon.

Next up: MOJO LOCO!

Neglected

2010-11-26T08:46:00.003-05:00

I have neglected this space.

No race report. No updates.

Shame on me.

At this point, seven weeks or so after the Chicago Marathon, there really isn't a need to write a race report.

There are some things I do want to share about the day.

I had the honor of running with Susan. It really wasn't the day that either of us had hoped for, but we were together and we made the best of it.

Sadly, for whatever reason, we did not appear in the official results, despite the fact that we covered the distance. There were other people I know who also did not appear in the official results. What's up with that?

I found my mojo. After struggling for so long I had a moment somewhere around mile 16 of the Chicago Marathon. I felt the mojo that had been gone for so long return. It was a crazy feeling and one that I can't really explain. However, I am feeling much better about my running and have been more consistent than I have in forever. It's really an amazing feeling. I'm not letting go of my mojo this time! I have some big plans for 2011 - stay tuned for details!

Next up for me in the OUC Half Marathon in eight days. I am not expecting a PR at this race. I'm just not as fast as I used to be. I am expecting to run a strong race and run it the best that I can.

I'm looking forward to meeting up with Marathon Chris there. I don't think we've seen each other since Goofy.

I think we look pretty good considering we just finished a marathon

So. Far. Behind.

2010-10-16T08:40:00.002-04:00

It has been a long time since I've posted anything.

There are a few reasons why.

The day after my last post, I started a new job as a Marketing Manager. Things are going extremely well, I'm very happy where I am. But... (There's always a but isn't there) It's a start-up, we're so busy. I have been writing a lot of copy for or collateral package, sell sheets, email, etc, etc... So much my head is spinning with words and I've had a hard time putting two words together for my own purposes.

The other reason is my running had not been going very well. And at a time when I should have reached out to my friends, asking for support, I hid in the corner hoping things would improve.

I have struggled on and off (mostly on) since the San Diego RnR Marathon more than a year ago. I fought my way through Goofy and felt a little better but couldn't find my groove. My plans for a spring marathon were thwarted by scheduling issues and it just didn't happen.

I registered early for Chicago and was really looking forward to it. But by the beginning of August things were falling apart and I knew it. However, the hotel was paid for, the flight was booked, oh, and if you didn't know, I'm stubborn.

I arrived in Chicago a little under-trained.

To Be Continued...

Rockin' Refuel :: Review

2010-07-15T20:34:00.003-04:00

The folks at Shamrock Farms asked if I would be interested in trying out Rockin' Refuel. I am always willing to try something if it could help me recover faster, so I jumped at the opportunity.

According to the documentation I was provided:

Low-fat chocolate milk is the original protein drink. It contains a mix of carbs and protein to refuel and repair muscles, fluids to rehydrate and electrolytes including calcium, potassium and magnesium, to replenish what is lost in sweat. It has the added bonus of bone-building nutrients, like calcium, (not found in traditional sports drinks) to help maintain strong bones and prevent stress fractures.

In addition to getting the right combination of carbs and protein, research suggests low-fat chocolate milk is a naturally nutrient-rich protein drink that can help you refuel and rehydrate within the critical two-hour recovery window after exercise.

The milk contains:

* 20 grams of protein, more than the leading sports and recovery drinks
* 100% real milk
* Nine essential nutrients
* Naturally occurring electrolytes
* No artificial sweeteners
* Formulated without high-fructose corn syrup
* Low glycemic index

I like chocolate milk. I like it a lot. But other flavored milk I'm a little iffy about. So I started in order of what I thought would be my least favorite and work toward the my most favorite.

After a six mile run I had the strawberry milk. I fully expected it to have a Franken Berry taste. I was pleasantly surprised by the great strawberry taste.

After a 13 miler I anxiously reached for the vanilla milk. It was so rich and creamy. Absolutely delicious!

Rockin' Refuel is a fantastic recovery drink and a great way to refuel after your run. I highly recommend it!

I haven't had the chocolate yet - I'm saving it for my long run this weekend. I can't wait!

To find Rockin' Refuel near you, check out their product locator here.

And Just When I Was On A Roll

2010-06-17T17:28:00.002-04:00

I don't really want to say that I'm injured, but I'm not exactly 100% either.

My left ankle is angry and doesn't want to play along. I have been RICE-ing

It's definitely feeling better today than it was yesterday, but it has put my into no running status. Just when things were starting to click.

Yesterday I spent an hour on the trainer - pedaling, pedaling... Riding the bike is never as bad as I think it's going to be.

Today I swam for thirty minutes - even though I was in the pool for about an hour and a half. It was too hot to get out and the water felt fantastic.

I will be back on the bike again tonight. I'm hoping to be back to running in time for my long run this weekend. I want to run the same route I ran last Sunday and show that route who's boss!

Review: Neutrogena UltraSheer® Liquid Daily Sunblock

2010-06-15T15:55:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago, I was asked to try out Neutrogena UltraSheer® Liquid Daily Sunblock. As you probably know I do the majority of my running on the treadmill, so I haven't had a chance to give it a try until this morning.

I was a little concerned when I looked at the bottle and saw that it said "layers invisibly under makeup". That's not necessarily what I'm looking for in a sunscreen for running in the melting heat of Florida.

I will say that it went on very nicely and evenly. It smells like moisturizer, which isn't a bad thing, but I think sunscreen should smell like coconut.

My concern proved to be accurate when around the 3 1/2 mile mark my eyes were stinging with a mixture of sweat and sunscreen.

I made a stop to use the bathroom and I rinsed my face in the sink and finally got some relief from the stinging eyes.

I didn't have any other adverse effects from the sunscreen and I was pleased when I returned home to find that I didn't have a tan line from my bandanna and halo.

While Neutrogena UltraSheer® Liquid Daily Sunblock does a fantastic job of blocking the damaging rays of the sun (I would hope so with an SPF of 70) I don't think it should be used as a sport sunblock. It would be better suited for a barbecue or outside event that doesn't require a lot of physical activity.

If you'd like to try it out,there is a $2 coupon available: http://www.neutrogena.com/suncoupon

Would you like to review UltraSheer®, too? Then go to http://www.giantwavepool.com/ultrasheer!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the product mentioned above for free for review purposes from Tidal Labs. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

You Have to Make The Decision...

2010-06-14T18:49:00.004-04:00

I was chatting with my coach last week. I told him I needed a win. It seems that this roller coaster ride called running again was in a valley and all I could see in front of me was a long climb up the hill so I could get to the fun part. But I just couldn't seem to get myself motivated to run.

He reminded me that we are looking at 16 weeks until Chicago and I needed to make the decision if I was going to finish or if I was going to kill it.

I think he knew what my answer was going to be. I've finished marathons before. I want to kill it this time around.

Once again, the switch was flipped and within minutes I was running again.

Sometimes I lose focus on the goal. It's nice to find the focus again and get things back on track.

Sunday I met up with a friend for a steamy 13 miler. We got started early, around 5:45 AM. I figured it would take us around 2:30 - 2:40 to knock the miles out, but as soon as the sun made it's appearance I was in trouble.

I have primarily stayed on the treadmill and I just was not prepared for the heat and humidity. Brutal comes to mind.

I stuck with it and made it slowly through. It was ugly and my splits were just awful, but I got it done.

I am going to continue to fight and claw my way through this training cycle if needed. Because I most definitely plan on killing it in Chicago!

Move Dammit!

2010-05-28T08:45:00.002-04:00

I am trying to get down to my fighting weight - Losing a few pounds would help me get faster. I know this because, when I've weighed less it's less of a struggle to move my body faster than I am right now.

So eight weeks ago I stopped eating sweets: dessert, ice cream, and pretty much anything with sugar. I also stopped drinking soda. From a calorie perspective, the soda shouldn't have had a big impact because I only drank diet soda, but I still decided to stop drinking it.

Two weeks ago I decided to reduce the amount of meat I'm eating. I don't want to go vegetarian. Quite honestly, I like meat. I love a good steak and I don't want to give it up, but I don't need to have meat every day.

Also over the past few weeks, my running has ramped up.

So the weight should be falling off, right?

The scale is barely moving. In fact what I'm seeing is the same few pounds come and go.

I don't get it. I'm trying to put efficient and good fuel into my body combined with the fact that I'm running and the results? There aren't any I see on the scale.

I think it's reasonable that I should be seeing something but I'm not.

The Quiet Competitor

2010-05-25T14:03:00.002-04:00

When I was in eighth grade, I transferred to a small private school. There was a girl there who thought she was all that. She was nice, but she spent a lot of time bragging about herself, and quite honestly, I wasn't all that impressed. One of the the things she told me was that she had taught herself to juggle. Add that to all of the other "wonderful" things she could do or had done, and it was just enough to push me over the edge.

So what did I do?

While I was at the bookstore with my parents on a Friday night, I ran across a book that was an instruction manual to teach yourself how to juggle. It also came with three juggling bean bags. I asked my mom if I could get it and she agreed.

I taught myself to juggle before the weekend was over.

I didn't go back to school and announce that I too knew how to juggle. There was enough satisfaction just knowing that I could. I kept practicing, and I'm still a decent juggler today.

Jump ahead 18 years. During a conversation, talking about God knows what, my dear friend Tracy mentioned how competitive I was. Funny, I was 31 years old and I never had thought about myself as being competitive. But here was this trait that had been there all along, right in front of me, and I never realized it was there. Once something like that is pointed out, it's easier to recognize and I when I look back at my life I can see other times where it has manifested. The one I remember most clearly is the juggling incident.

I think there are a few different aspects here, I'm not much of a bragger. I like to share my experiences here, and on twitter and I appreciate your support and I hope that the support I provide is helpful to you too.

Over the past several weeks I have noticed something about an online "friend" (I seriously doubt that this person reads this blog, so it's not any of you.) There has been a lot of bragging from this "friend". The bragging is coupled with a lack of acknowledgment when compliments are received, which is just rude. This person has made some tremendous progress and I'm happy for and proud of this person, but it's starting to remind me of eighth grade all over again.

I won't name or taunt this person, or say a single word to them, I will just do my thing. I'll train, I'll run, I'll keep moving forward, and should we ever go head to head (which is highly unlikely) I'll cross the finish line first.

Speaking of running, things have been going well. I am ramping things up the best I can and preparing myself to knock it out of the park in Chicago. SpeedySasquatch just increased my easy pace and it feels pretty good. I have been able to maintain my focus and I am finding the joy in each and every run. The running life is good!

Not Phoning It In

2010-05-03T20:45:00.002-04:00

I registered for the Chicago Marathon on February 17th. There wasn't any fanfare, I didn't make any announcements, I just did it and that was that.

I've been attempting to work on building my base and things have been crazy! There have been some things going on with work that has caused some stress, which makes things difficult. Mr. H. started back in on the endless re-siding project which has taken a lot of him and has meant countless trips for me to Home Depot.

In between the stress and trips to Home Depot I've been thinking about Chicago. Thinking about what I want to get out the race. What I want to prove to myself.

I AM NOT PHONING THIS IN.

I am going to follow coaches orders and see exactly what I made of. I have a time goal in mind, that I think is doable but I still need to talk to Speedy Sasquatch to get his opinion.

In 159 days, I'll be here:

And I can't wait!

Gone Too Long

2010-04-25T19:51:00.002-04:00

Wow.

I just saw that it has been the better part of six weeks since I last posted. I have fallen victim to spending more time on twitter. I have also been working on kicking my funk to the curb and I have also been dealing with some job related issues and an ongoing issue with my left pectoral muscle. It hasn't all been rainbows and unicorns.

I have declared that the funk is officially gone. I've been feeling a lot better. Despite my injury (it can hurt when I run) I've been getting my runs in as often as I can and I'm working hard to stay on plan.

I found a group that meets in the next town over on Saturday mornings to run. I've gone twice to meet up with them. They are some really great people and it's been a lot of fun to make some new friends who share a common interest. I didn't go yesterday and as the day went on I was sorry I didn't make it over there.

I ran a pretty slow 12K race last weekend in Clermont. It was a beautiful race but my pectoral muscle started complaining around mile 5. My friends at the finish line said I looked like I was hurting and my left shoulder was dragging.

In hindsight, I probably should not have run that race, but I did and I finished and I got a really pretty flowery plant for finishing. To give you an idea of how slow it was, I was two minutes slower than my 15K PR.

So I am now once again committing to blogging on a more regular basis.

There are 167 days until my next marathon. I am returning to Chicago to absolutely CRUSH IT!

I want to share my training with you. The highs and the lows and everything in between. Let's do this!

Doldrums with a Side of the Funk

2010-03-07T19:45:00.003-05:00

It has been a month since my last blog post. A month?!?!? I rarely go that long without an update, even a brief something. My twitter activity has slowed. My Facebook updates have almost completely stopped. My running... Sigh.

A few weeks ago I woke up dizzy. I was dizzy for the better part of the day. The next day I was planning on a long run. After five miles I stopped to refill my water bottle and I felt like I was going to black-out. You know how you can get a head rush if you stand up too fast sometimes? It was like that. It scared me enough to end my run then. The last thing I want to do is pass out while I'm on the treadmill.

I made it to the doctor on that Tuesday and she said I had some fluid in my middle ear. The dizziness lasted until the following Saturday.

The next week, I wanted to run, but I just couldn't bring myself to do get it done.

The whole week.

This past week wasn't much better. Four miles on Tuesday was all I had in me. Wednesday night I was asleep by 8:45 PM and on Friday I laid down at 7:50 PM.

Physically, other than being tired, I feel fine. I just haven't had the mental wherewithal to get it done.

I see people out for their runs and I want to run too. I'm jealous that people are out there and I'm not.

I'm worried about losing the fitness I have worked so hard to get back since November when things weren't going so smoothly on the running front.

Things piked up and were going well. I had great runs at Disney and was feeling especially confident after those races. No PRs there, but I felt like I was making leaps and bounds and it the last three weeks PPFFFFFFFFFFFTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT. It's all gone.

My confidence is shaky but I know that I need to and that I can turn this around.

I had originally planned on the North Carolina Marathon, but due to a scheduling conflict, it was a no-go. My plans shifted to the Flying Pig, but now I'm not sure about that. The next week or two should determine if I can do it.

This week will be complicated by travel. But I'm ready to shake the doldrums and run away from this funk hanging over me.

Valentine 5K :: Race Report

2010-02-07T20:57:00.003-05:00

Saturday morning I got up early and headed north to Silver River State Park near Ocala and Silver Springs. I decided to change things up and instead of running the Lady Track Shack 5K like have for several years, I would try a new race that is about an equal distance in the opposite direction. I first read about this race in Runner's World.

When The Crazy Runner said he was going to be there I decided to register. This race was really inexpensive. It was $15 (+$3 active.com fee) and the first 150 registered received a tech-tee. I registered early and got my tech-tee.

I missed my turn and ended up driving the scenic route through Ocala. I had left early enough in case I got lost and I was glad I had. I still arrived in plenty of time to meet up with The Crazy Runner and his friends. We chatted for a bit and found our way to the start line and after a few announcements we were off.

Speedy Sasquatch had given me pacing instructions of the first half mile at a 9:30 pace and the next two miles at a 9:10 pace and then FINISH IT!!! We started out in the parking lot and ran a loop. I was feeling good and was a little faster than 9:30, but it was manageable. After about a 1/3 of a mile we moved onto state park hiking trails that were primarily sugar sand.

I was still feeling pretty good but running on sugar sand takes a lot more effort than running on the road. It was starting to turn into work and I was slowing down a little bit.

I kept at it and tried to stay strong. I passed a few people and was passed by a few. As I turned a corner I saw a teenage girl walking and crying. She was having a rough race. We were already past the two mile mark. We were almost there. I tried to encourage her and I told her We were closer to the finish than we were to the start. I almost stopped to help run her in. Maybe I should have.

I was approaching an older gentleman who had stopped to walk. As I passed him he said I was doing a great job. He started running again and he passed me. He was walking again and as I passed him I said "You've totally got this!". He said "I hope it's over soon!" I told him there was about a 1/4 mile to go. He started running again.

I was pushing to get to the finish. The course crossed a road and we were right next to the area where packet pick-up was earlier in the morning. The finish line was segregated women to the left and men to the right. As we crossed the line ladies were handed a pink card and men a blue card. We needed to write our name age group and finish time on the card and turn them in.

After I had my card in hand, the older gentleman from the last 1/4 mile, who had also just finished, came up to me, shook my hand and thanked me for encouraging him to finish strong. That made my morning.

There was no chip or D-Tag timing. Old school write it down timing. Nothing wrong with that, I just haven't run a lot of races like that. I turned in my card, got a bottle of water. Right after that The Crazy Runner, who was pacing his friend found me. They had finished a little less than a minute behind me.

We chatted a bit and watched to award ceremony. Two of The Crazy Runner's friends (including the friend he paced) took 2nd place in their age groups. I fell just short of a trophy and finished 4th in my age group.

It was a lot of fun to try something new. The sugar sand was tough to run in and not a good choice for shooting for a PR. It really required a lot of effort to run on that.

It's been a long time since I've raced a 5K. It felt good to be out and I'm happy to have given it my best shot.

I finished in 29:56 a little slower than I was hoping for, but I wasn't counting on it being that tough.

I'm thinking about a half marathon next weekend in Gainesville. I suppose I might need to mention it to Mr. H.

Sunrise and Upside Down Dog

2010-01-30T11:55:00.003-05:00

My pictures for Thursday and Friday.

The sunrise is actually from Friday morning. I wasn't feeling well on Thursday and I went to bed early. Taking a picture was the farthest thing from my mind.

Friday morning, the pink in the sky caught my attention and I grabbed the camera and went outside to grab the amazing colors. Sadly, this picture doesn't do it justice.

The boxer dog likes to sleep and relax upside down. I thought the look on his face while he was totally relaxed was hilarious. I snapped a shot to share with you.

New Shoes

2010-01-27T20:06:00.004-05:00

My sulky 13 year old wanted no part of me documenting his first day at his new school today.

In preparation for the first day at the new school, I ordered Stone a pair of shoes from RunningWarehouse.com I knew they wouldn't be here in time for the first day, but it would be close.

The shoes arrived this afternoon. I asked Stone to try them on and we realized we had a problem. They were too small. I'm glad that RunningWarehouse.com has an excellent and easy return policy.

Now the debate is, do I order a half size up, or shop locally?

Do you know how bad I feel returning a shoe that says "Thanks for Picking Me!"?

Music and Motivation

2010-01-27T06:15:00.002-05:00

I received an email this morning asking me to share some information and get your feedback. The writer of the email is working alongside this year’s Virgin London Marathon and running music producer AudioFuel. They're trying to encourage runners to vote for their favorite running tracks which will make up this year’s ‘soundtrack’ for the London Marathon, which will be later available on iTunes.
What are your favorite running tracks? You can nominate your favorites until February 1st here. I know there is a headphone / no headphone debate out there. I fall into the headphone camp. And I believe that most runners love their music. How cool would it be to have a soundtrack chosen by athletes around the world? I think it'll be interesting to see what makes the cut. I can also use new music!

AudioFuel provided a free sampler you can download here

Isn't This a Running Blog?

2010-01-26T20:58:00.001-05:00

It is a running blog! I promise.

I have been following Speedy Sasquatch's plan as best I can and have been focusing on recovering from Goofy. There has been some running, some biking and some resting.

We're getting back to it this week with some more running in preparation for the North Carolina Marathon

So while there has been some running, there is nothing major to report. No stories of fantastic long runs, or long runs gone bad, just some short runs that were pretty good. I can't complain.

I had toyed with the idea of running the Ocala 1/2 Marathon or the ING Miami 1/2 Marathon on Sunday, but I decided against it. I'm going to Miami anyway Sunday night and I considered extending the trip a day on the front end, but I decided I would be better off and less stressed staying home chilling with the fam as long as possible and just banging out my long run on the treadmill this week.

Next Saturday is a different story. I'm headed to Ocala for the Valentine 5K This race was mentioned in the February Edition of Runner's World. In the magazine it mentioned that there are monkeys in Silver River State Park I want to see the monkeys. How cool would that be? Do I bring my little video camera in hopes of seeing a monkey or do I just run like I stole something? I just don't know if I have a new PR (27:12) in me... It would be nice.

Another Two-Fer

2010-01-26T20:51:00.005-05:00

Yesterday the bed didn't get made. The big black dog didn't seem to mind.

Today was Cha Cha's first day at her new school. Just like any other first day of school, pictures were in order. Can you believe, it's her first "first day of school" that didn't require a uniform.

Sneak Preview: Because the computers were down at the middle school yesterday, Stone couldn't take the placement tests needed. He took his tests today and his first day will be tomorrow.

Yesterday and Today

2010-01-24T20:55:00.006-05:00

I have been taking pictures everyday, I just haven't had a chance to post everyday.

YESTERDAY

Yesterday I snapped a shot of our new whiteboard for chores. In hopes that we will all be held accountable for our tasks. Ohhh, I think it might be time to show Stone how to do laundry.

TODAY

I think one of Cha Cha's items on the chore board will be to put her shoes away. It seems that her shoes end up in the same place, just not in her closet where they belong.

They don't belong under the coffee table. In less than 24 hours, she has worn three pair of shoes including flip flops and boots.

Chillin'

2010-01-22T19:24:00.002-05:00

I need to start carrying the camera with me at all times. I work from home and it's getting more and more difficult to come up with a new picture every day.

This is Tango, Chillin' on the dog bed. This bed is usually on the porch, but the recent cold weather had a negative effect on Tango's ACL and he was having a hard time getting up on the dog couch (yes, we have a dog couch) so we brought the bed in so he would have a soft spot to lay down on.

Self Portrait - Sort Of...

2010-01-21T19:09:00.003-05:00

When you have curly hair, you never know what you're going to get. Especially if you air-dry your hair.

The las few days my hair has been curlier than usual - if that's possible. And I've had a huge curl that on occasion has fallen in the middle of my face. I thought I would share it with you today.

Having a Vision...

2010-01-21T09:23:00.002-05:00

At least a year before we moved to this house, Mr. H bought a wooden canoe from a neighbor for $25. The canoe had a hole in the bottom, but we had room to store it and it was $25.

I had no idea what we were going to do with it. I'm not sure if Mr. H knew either. Maybe it was a future restoration project.

When we moved into this house Mr. H. kept saying that the canoe would look great on the ledge between the two sets of windows. He shared the idea with several people. They all told him no and that it wouldn't look right. It would look stupid.

Mr. H knew better and he had a vision. He put it up there and it was a perfect fit.

We have added things to it over the years, The flying frog that belonged to my mother, an old tackle box and some fishing poles. An abandoned wasps' nest we found in North Carolina.

Every single one of the naysayers, who couldn't see the vision are singing a different tune now. If you have a vision, stick to it! Don't listen to the negative - you might miss out on something cool.

Race Report :: Walt Disney World Marathon

2010-01-20T22:00:00.002-05:00

After the half marathon on Saturday my plan was stay off my feet for the rest of the day. When I arrived home I had thawed out a little bit, but I was still cold. Mr. H. had brewed a pot of coffee and I had a great big cup.

My shower also has a sauna in it. I turned the sauna on and jumped in the shower. Once I was cleaned up and warmed up I put on my pajamas, threw my running clothes in the washer and laid down in bed. I tried to nap, but had a hard time sleeping. I finally fell asleep and after about 45 minutes I jumped up. I was sure I had thrown my iPod in the washer. Thankfully, I had not.

I could not get back to sleep, but I decided to remain off my feet and I lazed around until the late afternoon.

At 4:45 PM we headed out for my favorite pre-marathon meal, sushi. While we were at dinner, I missed a phone call from Marathon Chris. She called to say that her husband was most likely not joining her in the morning and she had an extra spot for the runner's retreat.

As soon as we got home from dinner, I got my things ready for Sunday morning. Then I headed to bed. It was a little later than I had hoped, and the sleep came easy.

My alarm rang at 2:15 AM. I got up, got dressed and hit the road before 3:00 AM. Chris and I talked on the phone and made arrangements to meet up. The runner's retreat was awesome. Separate bag check, private bathrooms, warm beverages and the promise of food after the race.

When we left the retreat we met up with a few Twitter peeps. And we all headed to our starting corrals. Chris and I waited in the corral and right before the race started we wished each other luck. We were off. Chris was targeting a very specific goal and she was off. I wasn't really sure what to expect from myself for the race. My coach had said to move with the crowd. To have the crowd set the pace and not to rush forward. I took his advice and ran comfortably and didn't jockey for position or try to pass people.

By the third mile I had shed all of my toss away clothes except my gloves. I was warming up, even though it was cold out. I was shocked to find ice on the road at the water stops. All the way through the half way point. The ice in the water and the on the ground was much freakier to me than the sleet from Saturday. I was careful with my footing and just kept moving forward.

I was keeping a comfortable pace and I was feeling really good. On the loop around that headed back past the starting area I decided to toss my gloves. My hands were starting to get too warm. I should have hung on to them for a little while longer. I got cold later in the race and cursed tossing the gloves.

At mile eight I was thinking about the 5th anniversary Goofy medal and I realized that this was my 5th marathon. What a wonderful way to commemorate the occasion!

I was feeling good and I just kept going. Through the Transportation and Ticket Center, along the road that led us to the Magic Kingdom, down Main Street USA, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, through Cinderella's Castle, Liberty Square, Frontieerland and then to the backstage area.

The course continues along a service road and it gets a little crowded but I was enjoying myself. Along this stretch of the road the Central Florida Accordion Club braved the cold and came out to keep us entertained. It was a lot of fun to hear them and I really appreciated their enthusiasm.

Did I mention I was feeling good? We moved on to the road that would take us to Animal Kingdom. It was still cold, I missed my gloves but I continued on. I did see runners stop to pick up discarded clothing to help warm themselves up. This road is shady and it was a little breezy.

I passed over a timing sensor along this stretch of road. There was a DJ calling names of people as they crossed. I found out after the race the BostonCardioVet was right behind me and heard my name called.

I was feeling amazing! This stretch of road, while nothing to write home about, was one of my favorite parts of the race. I was running consistently and had thoughts of a possible PR or close to it.

I entered Animal Kingdom and I was still feeling pretty good. I was still running strongly and it was turning into such a good day.

As I got through Animal Kingdom I started to feel things tighten up and I was beginning to slow down a little bit, but I kept moving forward.

Somewhere around mile 18 I heard someone cheer for me. My name was on the front of my shirt and throughout the race people had been cheering for me by name. And then the person said "Are you Maddy from Twitter?" I said yes, but I was wondering if they were really talking about me. There were 16,000+ finishers. Could this be someone I knew?

The person caught up to me. It was Alett, a.k.a @petfxr. We ran together for a while, chatting and running. Alett pealed off the course for a stop at the porta-potties. It was so nice to meet her in person and I enjoyed the company.

I had just started to notice an issue with my little toe on my right foot. It felt like the seam on my sock was in the wrong spot. I stopped to tug on it, but it didn't help. I untied my shoe and looked at my sock and saw what looked to be blood. There was a medical tent ahead and I ran up to it and asked for a band-aid. I took my shoe and sock off and I was sure that the nail being in place was short-lived. A volunteer bandaged me up and I was on my way. In and out in less than two minutes. The band-aid was a huge help and I was able to keep moving forward. The pain was gone.

I made my way through the out and back around mile 21 and 22. This is often called the cruelest part of the course, but I really didn't mind it this time. I was still running, slower mind you, but I was still running.

And just like that I was on my way to Hollywood Studios. Just like last year, my friend Jim was waiting to welcome runners to the Chocolate stop. He jogged along side me, gave me a hug and sent me on my way.

I was getting closer! I was still feeling good. I was slower, but I was still feeling pretty good.

I refused to stop running and I kept going through Hollywood Studios and along the route to the Boardwalk.

I entered Epcot knowing the end was coming soon. I was almost done. As I passed through the World Showcase, I was still running. Slow, but I was going. Near Norway I saw My friend Morgan who had come out to cheer on several of her running friends. I knew I couldn't stop but I waved and kept at it.

I was so close. Keep moving forward, keep moving forward, keep moving forward. Spaceship Earth, keep moving forward. The Gospel Choir, keep moving forward. The 26 mile marker, keep moving forward.

The Finish Line! 5:26:35

My Best Case Scenario Goal was to finish the race somewhere between 5:30 and 5:45. I finished well ahead of my goal and I was so happy. It was the confidence boost I needed as I take this training and put it to work for me for the North Carolina Marathon on March 20th.

I claimed my medals and headed to the retreat where I met up with Chris, put on some dry clothes and ate! What a nice treat that was!

This was not a PR for me, but it was one of the most enjoyable marathons I have ever run. With the exception of walking a few steps through some of the icy water stops, I took no walk breaks, tried to keep a consistent pace and I ran my race. I was so thrilled with this race!

I can't wait to see what happens in North Carolina!

Not So High and Tight

2010-01-20T08:41:00.003-05:00

For eight years or so, Stone's hair was kept pretty short, pretty much high and tight with the exception of the front. With the assistance of some gel, the front was a little bit longer and it was spiked up. He's got pretty thick hair and when it started to get shaggy it would drive me crazy. Last summer he grew it out. and now when he's avoiding the camera this is the result:

The Reward

2010-01-19T10:09:00.004-05:00

Once again, I took this picture yesterday and did't have a chance to post it.

My plan yesterday called for an hour and five minutes on the trainer. It was hard work, but I knew this was waiting for me when I finished.

120 calories of cold, smooth goodness.

Goodbye Epcot

2010-01-17T15:53:00.001-05:00

Our Disney World Annual Passes expire on Tuesday. We won't be renewing them (for now). We spent the weekend there and on our way out of Epcot today, I snapped a picture from 2006 when we had our pictures taken for the "Leave a Legacy" wall. It's no longer offered, but up until a few years ago you could have a picture taken and it would be laser etched and mounted on the granite slabs in front of Spaceship Earth.

Giant Leaf

2010-01-17T15:42:00.000-05:00

Again, I am a day behind. I took this picture yesterday at the Port Orleans Riverside resort at Walt Disney World.

There were giant maple leaves all over the place. It's not that far from our house, yet we rarely see anything like it.

Charmed Life

2010-01-16T07:56:00.002-05:00

I took this picture yesterday, but I fell asleep before I posted it.

Here's another shot of the Big Black Dog. She's participating in her favorite activity. Sleeping or resting. I'm convinced she sleeps 20 - 22 hours a day.

Race Report :: Disney Half Marathon

2010-01-14T21:34:00.007-05:00

As you probably know, last weekend I participated in the Goofy Race and Half Challenge at Walt Disney World. I registered for this race on January 12, 2009, the day after I completed the 2009 Challenge.

As in years past, I began checking the weather forecast ten days out. It looked like the weekend, Saturday in particular, was going to be cold. And as the weekend got closer, the days appeared to get even colder. I was a little worried when Saturday morning's forecast included a "wintery mix". The local weatherman was predicting sleet from 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM. It looked like I would be running in the cold and rain, sleet and/or snow. Unbelievable.

I prepared the best I could. I bought some pants, a rain poncho, arm sleeves, a fleece blanket, toss-away sweats and a knit hat.

I put my rain poncho on right after this picture was taken

At Thursday's expo Marathon Chris and I discussed our goals and since they were similar, we decided to meet up and run together. I had some doubts, based on my last half marathon in October if I would be able to meet the goal and was prepared to send Chris along if I needed to. I didn't consider that the last two months of training had gone pretty well.

We walked to the starting corral and as we waited it became evident that it was indeed sleeting. It hurts when it hits you. We did our best to stay warm, and surrounded by other people in the corral it really wasn't all that bad. I was prepared to be miserable, but it just wasn't.

As the race got underway, Chris and I quickly found a comfortable pace. I wasn't pushing it too hard, just moving along and talking with Chris. Before I knew it, I was plenty warm and ready to shed my final toss-away, an orange sweatshirt I picked up days before at a local thrift store. I had on a long sleeve shirt arm sleeves and a short sleeve shirt. I was comfortable and we were moving forward.

The race was pretty uneventful other than the sleet, we ran and talked, talked and ran. And just like that we were entering the Magic Kingdom. My pace always picks up a bit when I run down Main Street. I just can't help myself. We made the turn toward Tomorrowland and we just kept moving.

We ran through Cinderella's castle and tried to jockey for a good shot, but that can be a tough job, this was as good as it got.

The course winds through Frontierland and past Splash Mountain, which by the way, is under construction, over the railroad tracks and through a backstage area and out to a service road. It was a little chilly on the service road. There were a lot of trees and the sun was just rising. Brrrrrrrr... It was raining lightly with sleet through in for good measure. I thought I would be soaked and miserable, but it really wasn't. It was actually a lot of fun.

We were now heading back toward EPCOT along World Drive. Soon we were on the cloverleaf for the overpass that would take us closer to the finish line. Chris and I kept moving and we powered up the hill and even passed some people. We were approaching the cruelest part of the course, after mile 11 there are two overpasses that are difficult to climb, but we made it through and just like that, we were in EPCOT. In years past there were characters to cheer runners along at the turn around of the out and back portion of the course through EPCOT. This year, because of the weather, there were no characters to push us through the final half mile.

I was excited, we were so close and the pace picked up a bit. We kept moving forward and crossed the finish line in 2:35:01 - right on goal!

This was by far one of the most enjoyable half marathons I have ever run. I ran with a friend, chatted and we really just made it fun!

After we received our medals, I made my way to the medical tent to get some ice for my knees as a precautionary measure to prepare for Sunday.

Then we hit the Goofy tent where we got our Sunday Goofy wristbands and a quick picture.

I picked up my checked bag, which took at least a half hour. On my walk to my car I realized I was frozen to the bone. My hands were numb and I was so, so cold. I could not get to my car fast enough, I jumped in, cranked it up turned the heat on high and put on a dry shirt, a pair of gloves and a track jacket. Finally, I started to warm up.

It took quite awhile to get out of the parking lot, but I didn't care. I was basking in the results of a great, fun race.

27 Days Post-Op

2010-01-14T21:03:00.004-05:00

Mr. H. is recovering very well. Here's a look at his knee 27 days post-op.

All things considered I think it looks pretty good.

On the Trainer

2010-01-13T21:39:00.001-05:00

Part of my marathon recovery includes maintaining my fitness while I allow my legs to get back to 100%. The coach said 45 minutes on the trainer tonight. So that's what I did.

I promise I'll post my Goofy race report soon!

Mummy

2010-01-12T21:52:00.001-05:00

I found this baby lizard muumy in my car today.

Poor little guy.

Crazy for Chick-Fil-A

2010-01-11T19:07:00.000-05:00

Stone stayed home from school today with a cold, so we brought him dinner from Chick-Fil-a - we went because it was school spirit night. Check out how crazy the Big Black Dog looks.

Weekend Take

2010-01-10T19:04:00.004-05:00

Saturday, January 9th, Walt Disney World Half Marathon: 2:35:01

Sunday, January 10th, Walt Disney World Marathon: 5:26:38

Combined Goofy Race and Half Challenge Time: 8:01:39

I thought it was fitting that my 5th Marathon was a part of the 5th anniversary of the Goofy Challenge. The Goofy medal is a nice way to celebrate the occasion.

Sleet

2010-01-09T15:29:00.003-05:00

I bet you were expecting a picture of my medal from the Walt Disney World Half Marathon.

I had planned on that all along, but I thought that the rare occurrence of sleet, and the accumulation of that sleet on my pool screen was a much better representation of the day.

Chances are, we will probably not see this again for many years.

Half Marathon Prep

2010-01-08T16:44:00.003-05:00

Getting my stuff together for tomorrow morning!

Moeben arm sleeves, shirt (recycled from last year), bandanna, and race bib.

Good Luck On All Races

2010-01-07T21:21:00.005-05:00

Cha Cha came with me to the Walt Disney World Marathon Expo tonight. As we arrived to packet pick up Cigna had a giant wall set up and a bin of markers for people to write well wishes.

What did she write?

Dear Runners Good luck for all races.

I tell ya, she's a keeper!

Champion Innovation Lab

2010-01-07T11:52:00.003-05:00

As you know, I'm running the Goofy race and a half Challenge this weekend. Disney always puts on an amazing event from expo to post-race. I have found, based on my past experience, that every detail has been thought of. That includes celebrating with the people who have been a part of the Marathon since the very first one, 17 years ago. This year, Champion is working with nearly half of the "Perfect 17" and have asked them to participate in the Champion Innovation Lab.

Participants were given a variety of Champion performance apparel and, starting last September, they were asked to catalogue their experiences in a Training Log and share real-time insights with the Champion New York Design Team and Champion Athleticwear Consumer Research. The runners receive apparel from the brand’s popular Double Dry® line featuring wicking technology, compression tanks and briefs and athleticwear from the Seamless product line. Questions include pace, weather, route (e.g., trail, street, treadmill), comfort, fit and washing machine care. Runners will also be outfitted in Champion apparel for the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend events and will be announced as Champion Innovation Lab participants when crossing the finish line.

That's pretty sweet!

“I look forward to the Disney Marathon Weekend every year as well as participating in the Champion Innovation Lab. It's exciting to test out their new products and important to me as an athlete that they are listening to the feedback I have to share,” said Dee Dean, marathon runner and ChIL participant.

I pulled that quote straight out the press release because I have actually met Dee Dean. We talked back in 2008 at the Spring Fling 5K. Dee is in her 60's she runs with a quickness and is a tremendous ambassador for our sport. A true testament that you can (and should) keep at it when most people think they can't. What a great lady!

The two-way dialogue generated by the Champion Innovation Lab has proved to be a critical in keeping the brand grounded in its roots of delivering top performance athleticwear for the everyday athlete.

Isn't that what it's all about really? You can make some cool looking stuff, but if it doesn't work, no one is going to want it.

Way to go Champion!

The half marathon is this Saturday and the marathon is Sunday. I wish all of the Champion Innovation Lab participants luck this weekend!

I'll be checking in this weekend with some pictures and brief updates - This girl needs her rest for Sunday.

Yay! It's almost here!

Christmas Present

2010-01-06T16:15:00.001-05:00

You'll have to trust me that the picture is set the right way - Blogger keeps flipping it when I upload it.

My Christmas present arrived today. The batteries are charging now. I can't wait to check it out!

Dirty Girl

2010-01-05T12:09:00.002-05:00

The big black dog loves to be outside when the weather is chilly. She also likes to roll in the grass and the dirt.

Bored

2010-01-04T16:37:00.004-05:00

Way to go Lake County. Two and half weeks for Christmas Break? My kids don't go back to school until Wednesday. This is the result:

Cha Cha is bored, but not bored enough to brush her hair, I asked.

Eat Run Eat

2010-01-03T15:26:00.002-05:00

I have started a new project and I hope that you can help.

Check out Eat Run Eat. It's a resource for runners and other athletes to submit and search for healthy breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack recipes.

I always seem to have a problem coming up with something to cook. I'm not a very creative (or good) cook and I want to avoid getting take out because it's easier than coming up with something to cook.

Take a look at the new site and please submit your recipes!

Hungry Dog

2010-01-03T15:23:00.002-05:00

Every day around 3:00 PM the Boxer Dog tries to convince me it's time for him to eat, even though I don't feed him until 4:00 PM.

Silly dog.

New Beginnings

2010-01-02T20:46:00.001-05:00

For the New Year, my daughter got a new bed. A big step up from the princess loft bed she had for years.

The vertical blinds' days are numbered. I'm not a fan.

Project 365

2010-01-01T19:55:00.005-05:00

I have been reading about some people starting a photo project, posting a picture a day for the whole year. I thought I would give it my best shot (no pun intended). I realize that I may need to get a card reader for travel and honestly, it's probably where I'll get some of the more interesting pictures anyway.

So this is my picture for Day 1

Hello 2010!

2010-01-01T09:54:00.002-05:00

I have not been updating regularly and even left an unfinished Ragnar Relay Story out there.

Most of you know, I didn't have the running year I wanted to have last year. I don't have all of my miles tracked in the same place, so I'm not even sure how many miles I ran, but I do know it is less than 1,000 which is the mark I've hit for the past few years.

All I can really do is keep moving forward.

And I'm okay with that.

I'm sure you've heard Albert Einstein's quote "Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." That's exactly what I felt like. I really wasn't making any progress and it was making me crazy.

In November,I got myself a coach, Speedy Sasquatch., and it has made a huge difference. There has been a lot more consistancy on my part and I can see the beginnings of a return of my speed.

That makes me happy!

I'm not sure I'm going to set any mileage goals this year, I just want to see what is going to happen.

I have Goofy right around the corner, and while I'm not as trained as I would like, I'm going to run the races, more as training runs and to have fun instead of racing them.

Then on March 20th, I'll be running the North Carolina Marathon in High Point, NC. I'm looking forward to this race and I'm hoping to set a new marathon PR.

I'm planning on returning to Chicago in the fall to run the Chicago Marathon Last October was the first time I was sad not to be at a race I had run before, so I decided I would give it another shot and hope for cooler temps this year.

What are your race plans for 2010? I hope I have an opportunity to meet up with a lot of you this year!

Happy New Year!

Ragnar Relay :: Race Report - Volume 1

2009-11-23T09:08:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago my friend Dawn asked me if I would be interested in joining her Ragnar Relay team. Someone was injured and they needed another runner. I jumped at the chance after Mojo Loco fell apart.

I was unable to attend a team meeting and last Monday I was finally able to connect with my van-mates in Van #2. We had a meeting to plan the logistics of who was bringing what and where we were meeting Friday morning.

Friday morning we met at the Sheraton in Maitland. By 9:15 we were headed for Land O Lakes for our first "Major Exchange". The major exchanges are the places where the Vans leapfrog. Every six exchanges. We had some time to spare while waiting for Van #1. We had an opportunity to get some lunch and talk. There were people in the parking lot tossing Frisbees and footballs. It kind of looked like tailgating - all in the parking lot of a Winn-Dixie.

The exchange was made around 2:00 PM - I think. While our van-mates were running we played support crew and drove ahead and then waited to give what our runners needed. Water, Gels, High-Fives. We would then move on the exchange so the next runner could prepare for their run.

I was feeling fortunate that I was the last leg. Our first runner, Max, ran through some pretty tough heat. Our second runner, Heather ran against some pretty busy traffic in Wesley Chapel. Our Third Runner, Megan had a nice route that seemed pretty flat, although she said an old lady almost ran her over. Our next runner, Danny tackled some really big hills that just kept coming. It was after 4:30 by this time and we were required to run with headlamps, butt lamps and a reflective vest. Krishna was up next for three miles. Based on our "Race Bible" we though she had a negative incline change and that she would be running downhill. She said later she didn't feel any downhills on her run.

We met Krishna at the halfway point and she gave us a thumbs up. We rushed to the next exchange and there was little time for me to get ready to go. I had enough time to go to bathroom, do a little stretching and then it was time for me to start running. In my haste, I didn't hit the start button on my Garmin - which actually turned out to be a good thing. It was pitch black out. We were on a state highway with a decent shoulder for running. Cars and semi trucks were whizzing by and I just kept moving forward.

My team met me two miles in and had water waiting for me. I kept the bottle with me and exchanged it for a fresh one at mile four. I was feeling really good. I had no idea how fast I was going, and the only way I knew how far I had gone was when my team was waiting for me.

The route turned onto a new, less busy road. There were other teams waiting at the corner and someone shouted out that it was we were five miles in. I just kept going. A few yards ahead the shoulder was a little uneven and my left foot hit half on and half off the shoulder. I took a digger. My hands went out in front of me and took the brunt of the fall. I popped back up and my ankle was hurting. Other teams had been standing on the our side of road and they started to walk toward me. "I'm okay". I yelled.

"Are you sure?" They asked.

"I'm good! Thanks!" I answered back.

And then I was running again. My ankle was back in business and my hands were stinging, but I just kept moving along. I had no idea if I was bleeding or not, although I thought I might be.

My team met me a mile down the road for a final water bottle exchange. I had just 2.8 miles to go.

It was kind of cool to be running in the dark I was focused on what I was doing and I was in the zone. I just kept going. I soon passed the one mile to go sign. And then I was at the exchange! I ran 8.8 miles in the dark in 1:40:00. I was pleased with this time - especially because I fell.

We passed off to our other van, I got my hands cleaned up - they were cut up and had been bleeding a little bit. My first ever running fall! Battle wounds!

We hurried to Clermont to a Publix, where we got our clothes changed, grabbed some subs and then headed back to Mascotte to sleep and wait for the next Major Exchange.

Next Up: Saturday - Ragnar Relay - Volume 2

Catching Up

2009-11-12T20:55:00.002-05:00

I'm behind again. Behind on reading your blogs, behind on posting on mine. So we may go with the Cliffs Notes version to get up to speed.

I ran a half marathon on Halloween. Meh. It was at Ft. DeSoto Park near St. Pete Beach. St. Pete Beach is one of my favorite places, so it was a lot of fun to be there and it was a pretty course, but it was hot and I was slow. My slowest half marathon of the year. What was important to me was that I toughed it out and just kept going.

Before the race I was able to meet up with Morgan and B.o.B.. It was nice to chat with the speedsters before we got things going. I love to meet up with running friends!

I have been continuing to struggle just a bit with my training. Yet I refuse to give up. Things are looking up though, and I'm excited about the next several months and beyond.

Once again, I am committing to post more frequently here and catch up with you all too.

Run well!

That's What Friends Are For

2009-10-27T19:26:00.002-04:00

My training continues to be spotty. Boo. What I am finding is that when I can make the time to run, it may be slower than I would like or what I'm accustomed to, but it's pretty darn good.

My company's annual user-conference brought me back to San Diego two weeks ago and I had two decent runs in Mission Valley and two FANTASTIC runs along the Embarcadero with a colleague and a client. The weather was perfect and it was just really good to get out on the road.

Last week was crazy with work and I could never find a good time to run. I decided that something had to give and for the weekend I made the time.

Saturday morning, my alarm went off at 4:00 AM, I got ready to go for my first chance to meet Morgan. We have been trying to meet for quite a while and at 5:30 AM Saturday morning we made it happen. We ran on the Cady Way trail, which is pretty darn dark at 5:30 in the morning. We talked and talked and talked and talked and ran and ran and ran and ran. Before I knew it, we were at our turn-around point and we headed back. Eight miles in the bag! It was great to finally meet her and run together. Hopefully, it won't be the last time! I love my running friends!

After Our run, I headed home, took a shower and we were on the road to Port Saint Lucie to Mr. H's uncle's birthday party. We spent a few hours there and then we headed home. I wanted to make it an early night, because my alarm was set for 4:00 AM for Sunday too.

Sunday morning it was a similar routine. I was up, and soon out the door. This time I was headed to Marathon Chris' house. From there we went to the University of Central Florida for the Race for a Cure. We got there early and quickly found a parking place, and walked over to packet pick up. There was no line and we things went quickly. Chris and I stopped back at my car and then we were off for a pre-race run. We made a loop around campus and 2.75 miles later we were back near packet pick up. I was so glad we got there early. It was a madhouse. There were at least 7,000 people registered for the race.

I decided that because the race would be a part of my long run and because there were so many people, I didn't want to push the pace and race, I just wanted to run. Chris and I ran and chatted and kept it comfortable. It was nice.

After we crossed the finish line, we got some water and bagels. We sat down and enjoyed the fantastic weather. And soon we were back on the road. Chris took me on a tour of the Research Park which was really fascinating. I had no idea it was there or the kind of work that was done right in our own backyard.

I had 16 on my schedule. I had a feeling as we got close to eight miles that 16 miles were not in the cards. We decided that 12 miles might be good. And 12 it was.

What a fantastic weekend for running with my friends. I feel like Morgan and Chris helped me over the hump and my running is going to get better and I am going to get stronger. The future is looking bright!

Yoooo Hooooooo! Maaaaadddy!

2009-10-07T20:45:00.002-04:00

It's been nearly a month since I've posted anything.

My running has been going okay. Not great and there are some holes in there that I am working to fill with more runs. I mean I am training for Goofy and I refuse to be derailed from that race.

In the middle of September Mr. H had an ATV accident that caused a minor tibia fracture, a torn ACL, a torn MCL and a severely sprained LCL. He spent two days in the hospital and has been ordered to stay off of his leg. The doctor told him that his knee is screwed. We go back to see him on Friday and sometime soon there will be ACL reconstruction surgery.

Mr. H's injury has meant that the the work around the house we normally split all has to be done by me. It's meant little time and energy for myself. I feel like the past few months have been two steps forward and one step back.

I ran a 10K on Saturday. It was a hilly course and really a lot of fun. A much different experience than my last 10K in August. I'm still not running as fast as I used to or as fast as I would like, but I'll get there. One thing at a time...

Race For the Cure

2009-09-09T21:30:00.002-04:00

You know by now that I'm not running the Marine Corps Marathon. And while I'm bummed about it (and getting over it), I know it was the right choice for me this time around.

The decision to not run that race left a gaping hole in my calendar.

A friend mentioned the Race for the Cure and it fit the hole on my calendar. I've thought about this race before, but have never been able to bring myself to register. I lost my mom eight years ago to breast cancer and it still makes me sad. She was a really awesome lady.

After some thought, encouragement from a friend and some clarity thanks to Lucy g. smooth, I decided to register and run to honor the memory of my mom.

So this is where I could use your help. If you're familiar with the event, it's a fund raising event and I would like to raise a little money for the cause. I would really appreciate it. You can donate by clicking here.

To make the day more fun and maybe a little less emotional I'm planning on meeting up with Marathon Chris We both have just a few more miles than a 5k on our schedules that day, so we're going to run a few, run the race and then run a few more. the plan is to end up somewhere between 13 and 16 miles (I think.)

It should be a great day!

Clarity

2009-09-05T16:05:00.002-04:00

I had another great run today with Lucy g. smooth. It was five miles with twelve minutes of running followed by a minute and half walk breaks. That minute and half gives me a chance to slow it down, drink some water and wipe the sweat away. When it was time for my second walk bread I really felt like I could just keep going, but I also wanted to stick to my plan.

Toward the end of my run, with a half mile to go instead of taking time for the walk break, I increased the speed and knocked that last half mile out of the way.

During my run I found something that has been missing from my running for months.

Clarity.

I think we're all pretty familiar with the mind clearing effects of a run, but my runs outside often are clouded with watching for traffic, other people and just stuff. I don't usually feel that when I'm running with other people, but that's a different vibe all together because there is generally talking as the miles fly by.

But today, alone with my iPod and Lucy my mind was free to wander. To think about nothing, everything and all that lays between the two.

It was a great feeling I had forgotten about and I am so glad to have it back!

Over the course of my run I decided to commit to a 5K that I was on the fence about (details about that soon).

I'm feeling stronger every day. That's really a good thing (obviously) but it makes me feel more confident about the fall and winter and my running plans.

Bring It

2009-09-02T21:12:00.004-04:00

It's amazing how things come back to you.

Am I as fit as I was at the beginning of the summer - directly after San Diego? No. I can admit that I am not. Am I prepared to run a marathon? The answer is also no.

My running train was derailed. With a few tweaks and a few days, it's all coming back to me. The drive, the lunch-time runs, the just plain gettin' it done. I love that feeling. And I am loving Lucy. What a difference!

I'm still slower than I want to be. I know the speed, or my version of it will return. The question is, will it return between now and September 26th for the Miracle Miles 15K? We'll see. I want to and will put forth my best effort although I don't plan on a PR (1:28:02) this race will be a good measuring stick of what I can accomplish in three or so weeks.

My next stop will be the Halloween Halfathon. My Goal for this race will be to run the best Half Marathon of 2009. I've had a few dismal Halfs this year and with eight weeks or so to really focus I'm sure I can top the races I have run this year. Because this race is on Halloween costumes are encouraged. I have never run in a costume before, but I'm willing to try something new. Any suggestions you have for a costume that would allow me run unencumbered, I would love to know.

It's going to be a busy fall all the way through February. But I couldn't be happier about that and the good running it will bring!

Lucy g. smooth

2009-08-28T20:46:00.003-04:00

A few weeks ago I was debating about joining a gym or fixing my treadmill. After a run on my treadmill, which would prove to be its last, because 2.37 miles into the run it died. I knew the answer was not to fix my treadmill, but to get a new one.

I spent the last few weeks researching and I knew what my treadmill must-haves would be:

At least a 2 1/2 HP Motor. My old treadmill had a 2.25 HP Motor and I don't think it was quite enough.

A 20 inch wide deck. My old treadmill had an 18 inch deck and I knew I'd be happier with a little more wiggle room.

A 60 inch long deck. My old treadmill had a 55 inch long deck. I'm only 5'2" so I never ran out of room and my stride was never compromised, but I may not be the only one to use it.

Not a lot of requirements, but I really wanted to be sure that the treadmill I bought had those features.

I also wanted to buy a new one. My old treadmill was not quite three years old and I had run it to death. I didn't want to find myself in the same situation sooner rather than later.

Even though I wanted a new one, I thought I would peek at Craigslist. Here is what I found:

A lot of people have treadmills for sale.

A lot of people buy treadmills and don't use them.

A lot of treadmill owners think their treadmills are made of gold and don't lose any value whatsoever over several years.

There are a lot of crappy treadmills out there.

There are also a few nice used treadmills out there at a fair price.

After all of my research I decided I would like to try to find a LifeFitness Model. Either a F3 or a T3. The F3 is a folding model and the T3 does not fold. Folding wasn't a requirement for me. My old treadmill folded and I never folded it one single time.

I knew I needed a treadmill soon, so how long could I wait for the treadmill I wanted to appear?

Would you believe it was already there?

Last Friday, the day before the ad expired, I found a LifeFitness T3 for sale near Ocala. I sent an email and I was hopeful for a reply, but by Sunday evening when I still hadn't gotten a reply, I had given up.

Monday afternoon I received an email from the owner of the treadmill I had inquired about.

It was still available!

Monday evening we went to take a look at it. I gave it a quick run. I was feeling the eleven miles from Sunday and my heel was hurting just a little, and after just a few minutes I was sold!

The owner of the treadmill said she we give us a few minutes to talk it over. Mr. H. told her that there was no need to think it over, he knew I wanted it.

And just like that I had a new treadmill.

I went for my first run on her yesterday and named her Lucy g. smooth.

Lucy g. smooth

The Console

This whole summer was never about a lack of mojo. It was about beating the heat, fighting the humidity and finding the consistency I need.

I'm looking forward to what this will bring.

Cutting My Losses

2009-08-25T17:59:00.003-04:00

It has been a looooooong summer. My big plans for the "Summer or Run" were a big bust and it's just been a few months of really terrible running.

With the best intentions I started training for the Marine Corps Marathon. I was looking forward to the race. I was planning on running with my friend Tammy. I've known Tammy for literally half of my life. It will be her first marathon and I thought it would be really cool to share the experience with her.

As the summer continued so did the crappy running. I was falling behind.

I could be ready. I could run a good race.

The running didn't get any better.

I could still be ready. I could still run an okay race.

I was falling further behind.

I might be able to be ready. I might be able to pull off a half-assed race.

It would be a daunting task to build from my current deficeit. And just to run a race I wouldn't be happy with.

I have been thinking about this for a few weeks trying to decide what to do.

I didn't want to disappoint Tammy. I didn't want to miss out on a chance to run in our nation's capitol. But I knew, deep down what the right choice should be.

On Thursday I made the decision that it would be in my best interest to not run the Marine Corps Marathon this year.

I'm sad about the decision. Even though I know it's the right one.

So now the plan is to look forward and focus on getting ready for Ragnar, Goofy and 2010.

And The Answer Is...

2009-08-10T20:32:00.003-04:00

Thank you to everyone who was quick to jump in with advice about whether I should join one of the gyms near my house or attempt to fix my treadmill.

I carefully weighed your opinions. And then I went for a run. I was having a blah type of morning yesterday and decided I wasn't going to run. After a few twitter messages, emails and Facebook wall posts with Marathon Chris I had enough motivation and inspiration to get to it.

It was late, it was hot and I decided I was going to run on MY treadmill.

Oh. My. God. It was amazing. It didn't matter that it was nearly 90 degrees out. It didn't matter that I threw a skirt and a sports bra on and left my shirts in the closet. I was at home, I grabbed a bottle of water and the run was underway.

It didn't take long, less than a quarter of a mile and I found the groove I haven't seen since God knows when. I was totally in the zone. Did I mention it was amazing?

Right at that moment the decision was made. I was going to fix my treadmill. Because really, if it's right there, wouldn't I always have time for at least three miles. I'm pretty sure I would.

And then, at 2.37 miles into the best run I've had in months the treadmill quit. This time it was different. I shut it off, and just like in the old days I sat down to log my run at Breaking the Tape and then I smelled something burning.

I asked Mr. H. to come and check it out. He said the belt was extremely hot and "It was shot".

There will be no fixing the treadmill.

I had such an amazing run. All 2.37 miles of it. I want that feeling back. I want to be in the zone. I want to run fast. I want to run when I want to run, not at the crack of dawn before it is too blistering hot. I want to run without a shirt on. I want to run in my living room.

I am not joining a gym. I am going to buy a bad ass treadmill. And run as I please.

Now, are there any suggestions on what kind I should buy?

Do I, Or Not?

2009-08-08T13:09:00.004-04:00

This was supposed to be the "Summer of Run". It didn't turn out quite as I had planned. I have had a pretty frustrating running summer. And I have kept at it in search of that amazing run I know is out there. Since I returned from the San Diego Rock n Roll Marathon I have had a string of really bad runs. And good to great runs? So few, I can count them on one hand.

I have spent a lot of time thinking about what has worked in the past and what has changed. In 2006 I ran a string of PRs at the Half Marathon distance. I went back and read some of my posts from 2007 and I had some awesome runs, some awesome races and I had decent speed (for me). In 2008 I ran a Marathon PR, Thanks to Petra.

In May, I ran my second slowest Marathon time and over the past two months I have been sucking. What changed?

My Treadmill.

I have made the decision that to get my speed back and return to some great runs, I am going back to the treadmill. I know it has worked for me in the past, and my road running is very obviously not working.

I LOVED my treadmill. I ran thousands of miles on my treadmill - I can't believe I never named it - I ran on it so much that I cracked the decked in half.

The deck was replaced and then it needed a belt for the motor. I thought I was back in business and then occasionally, after a few miles the treadmill would throw an error that had something to do with the speed being "off" and the treadmill would shut down.

It's pretty scary to have the machine shut down while you're moving at a decent rate of speed.

Mr. H. suspects that because the running belt was removed and replaced with the deck replacement combined with the fact that there is a moderate amount of wear on the current belt, it has been stretched out and needs to be replaced.

There is still a possibility that my treadmill is just screwed and a new belt will do nothing but cost me $100.

So here is where I need your help:

Do I replace the belt on my treadmill or do I suck it up and join a gym?

There are a few options around here.

Anytime Fitness: It's about 5 miles away and I get a discount with my health insurance. But they only have three treadmills and I'm afraid that I might not be able to get on one when I need to or what to.

YMCA This is also about 5 miles away in the other direction There are a lot of treadmills, lots of classes and a pool in case I am inspired to cross-train tri-style.

Gold's Gym It's about 8 - 10 miles away. I haven't checked it out yet, but I would assume there are a fair number of treadmills. They also have a decent class schedule if I wanted to spin or whatever.

What should I do? Make an attempt to fix what I have or cut my losses and join one of the gym choices above. I really need your help!

Mojo Loco, Baby!

2009-08-03T21:10:00.005-04:00

A few weeks ago my friend Ted sent me a tweet asking if I would be interested in running the Ragnar Relay On November 20th and 21st. I had been planning on X-Country Marathon in Lithia, FL on the 21st. I have a 30 mile weekend planned as a part of my Goofy training that weekend, so if we could some how make that kind of mileage work, I would be in.

Between Ted and I, we decided that we should run it as an Ultra Team of 6 runners. Ted was able to quickly recruit Robert and the next day, The Zen Runner himself, Adam Tinkoff agreed to join our team. Adam suggested that we think about recruiting two additional girls so we could have a "mixed team".

This was proving harder than I thought. I put the call out on Twitter and Facebook and it was crickets. So I put the call out again. And again. Maybe it was in a moment of weakness, or maybe she was caught up in the excitement of running Ragnar Washington, but my friend Shelly said she would join the team (Her calendar is clear, and I'm assuming she's in - she needs to check with the fam).

Great! One more girl to go. I decided to send my friend Morgan an email to see if she might be interested. After reading about her 18 miler on a Friday night in Clermont, I thought this might be right up her alley. We exchanged a few emails and Morgan agreed.

We had a team!

Just call us Mojo Loco!

It is going to be an exciting few months. Stay tuned for the journey as I train simultaneously for three amazing events. It's gonna be a wild ride!

Race Report :: Moss Park Forest Run

2009-08-01T12:00:00.003-04:00

There aren't a lot of opportunities to run 10K races in this area. There are a few races each year, but it seems that often there is a schedule conflict that prevents me from running.

Earlier this week the stars aligned and I had another chance to try a race at the 10K distance at the Moss Park Forest Run. Wednesday night thirty minutes before online registration closed, I sealed the deal and registered.

My running has not been fantastic lately, it's been a pretty frustrating summer and the heat and humidity have slowed me down and I've been slogging through it since the beginning of June. I have only had a handful of great runs all summer so I really didn't have any expectations for time and I was pretty sure I would run a Personal Worst.

This morning I woke up at 4:30 AM to head over to Moss Park in southeast Orlando. I got on the road at 5:15 AM and by 6:30 AM I was at Moss Park. There was a line of cars to get into the park. I didn't know that there was an entry fee to get into the park. I'm glad I had some cash on me. I rarely do. I paid $3.00 to get into the park and made my way to packet pick-up.

I spent the next forty-five minutes mulling around, a few pre-race trips to pee - I didn't even have to go, It's just part of the routine, because I don't want to have to go while I'm running.

I headed over to the 10K start line. Our instructions were that we would start first and the last 10K participant would have about a 3 minute head start over the 5K participants. We were going to run two three mile loops and the very first part was the .2 we would need to make it a true 10K.

We were then told that the start would be delayed 15 minutes because there were cars backed up at the entrance with racers. I was a little concerned about that because it was already warm and adding 15 minutes meant it would be that much hotter.

Finally we got things going. I fell into a comfortable pace, but I didn't think I would be able to maintain the pace for the entire race. By mile two I switched to heat and humidity survival mode. It was heating up quickly and the humidity was oppressive.

As I approached the end of the first loop there were a lot of 5K participants who were wrapping up their runs. I was tempted. I was so tempted to bag it and just be done after the first 5K. That would be the easy way out. I know I am not a quitter so I pushed through and started on my second loop.

I was rewarded with a few Sand Hill Cranes along the way that weren't there on my first pass through. I also saw a Ryder Truck pull out of an office and rip down a panel of a privacy fence. That wasn't really an reward, and I did feel bad for the guy, but it took my mind off the heat for a few minutes.

Sadly, as I approached the first water stop on the loop, there was no more water. As I made my way to the other water stops on the loop I found the same result. The last 3 miles were done without any hydration. And it was hot.

I kept going. I was struggling and I took several walk breaks to recover.

I was determined to keep moving forward. And before I knew it there was less than a mile to go. I just kept going. Running. Walking. Running. Walking. Running.

I finished!

It was, as I predicted, a Personal Worst for me. Not a terrible thing for a race with no expectations. So what did I learn about myself this time?

I'm not so sure I learned anything new, but I was reminded that I am tenacious enough to finish what I start. Even when it's hard. Even when it's hot. I committed myself to run a 10K this morning and while it would have been easy (too easy on a double loop course) to bail I stuck with it and finished what I started.

After the race I got a bottle of water and wandered over to the food table. The only thing I saw were boxes and boxes of pizza. The smell made me gag, so I left and went to 7-11 for an iced coffee and package of smokehouse almonds.

Would I run this race again?

Maybe. I wish they had been better prepared to start on time. I wish they had been better prepared to hydrate the 10K runners on the second loop. I don't know if it's a good idea to have a 10K during the beginning of August. It was hot. I might have to give it another shot next year. I think I have a lot of races next year where I feel like I need to redeem myself based on my results this year.

There's A New Blog In Town!

2009-07-24T01:57:00.004-04:00

There are a lot of runners already thinking about Disney in 2011. We have decided to document the journey over the next 17 months on a new blog: Goofy Running

The first post:

Can you believe that we are already talking about Goofy 2011? It's true!

I have found that one of the greatest rewards of running a marathon, other than the race itself, is the amazing people I have met along the way. To date I have run four marathons and at each and everyone I have met up with other bloggers who share the love of running.

The 2008 Chicago Marathon Dream Team: Bill, Melisa, Charlie, Maddy, Stone(who cannot stay away from a camera) and Petra

A lot of great running bloggers,and twitter runners are already making plans to spend the second weekend in January 2011 at Walt Disney World for the marathon weekend. If you are planning on participating in any of the distances, the 5K, the Half Marathon, the Full Marathon, the Goofy Race and a Half Challenge or the unofficial Dopey Challenge, please leave a comment and we will invite you to contribute to this blog.

Are you goofy enough to join in this challenge?

My Support Crew

2009-07-15T19:00:00.003-04:00

Last week a twitter discussion was underway about having children. The question was about having children in general, and it was posed by a runner, my friend Nicole - A.K.A Running Bebe As the conversation continued Nicole asked about training with kids and how that worked out.

Because it takes more than 140 characters to talk about it, I agreed to write a blog post about it.

For those just tuning in, I was an off and on runner from the time I was a teenager until 2005, which was my triumphant return and there has been no looking back since. When my kids were baby, babies I was in the "off" phase and wasn't running much if at all.

I would like to nominate Susan to write a post about training with a baby.

If you are running and training for a race, regardless of the distance, and you are not single, it is very helpful if your family is supportive of your endeavors. And while my family is extremely supportive, I also try to be as flexible as I can with my runs. Sometimes it means getting up early and getting my run done before the plans for the day get underway.

Best. Support. Crew. Ever.

My family has only ever been to a few races. Races start early in the morning. We live just far enough outside Orlando that it doesn't make sense for me to wake them up and drag them out so they can stand on the side of the road to watch me run past. However, the first question I get when I walk in the door is always "How was your race?" I know they're proud of me. I also know it can be boring to stand there to watch someone run by.

My runs are my alone time. Time to think, time to decompress. I enjoy that time alone. And it helps me to focus more on my family when the run is done.

As I write this, I realize why running with a family works for me:

I get a lot of support from my husband with a commitment to watch the kids while I run.

I'm flexible, I can move things around and leave early so my runs don't dominate the entire day.

My kids are proud of me. And really, could you ask for anything more?

Changing Plans

2009-06-29T20:11:00.002-04:00

I have been thinking all along that I would spend the summer with Uncle Higgy getting ready for the Marine Corps Marathon. I was scheduled to start last Monday.

Due to heat, and thunder, Monday and Tuesday were a wash. Wednesday I made it out and ran three miles. Thursday morning I woke up with a sore throat and I just wasn't feeling super-fantastic. Very similar to how I felt last year during the first and second week of training for Chicago.

Meanwhile, I was looking at the plan in the latest Runner's World And I kept thinking that it might not work because right after MCM, I jump right into Goofy training.

Yesterday I sat down with a calendar and thought that I actually could make it work. With 11 training weeks for Goofy after MCM I think I'm going to make it work.

So on July 6th, I will begin the Runner's World training plan. I'm hoping to see a positive result on October 25th.

Being Less Stupid

2009-06-23T20:25:00.004-04:00

My back had been bothering me. I was trying to avoid going to the chiropractor. I don't know why I do that because in the end I usually give in and go anyway. A few friends on Twitter suggested that I get a massage.

I called my massage therapist on Wednesday. She couldn't get me in until the following Tuesday. Tuesday morning she called to see if we could reschedule to Wednesday. By Thursday morning I still didn't feel any relief. I ran and I hurt. I knew there was a rib out of place and all of the Icy Hot in the world wasn't going to help.

Friday I made an appointment to see the chiropractor. I was wishing I had just done it a week and half earlier when I really should have.

I was scolded by my chiropractor for waiting too long to see him. He had to work really hard to get everything back in place. He then said I should feel better by the middle of next (this week).

As I left the office I was thinking that was ridiculous. I would be running by Sunday.

Reading my blog, that is...

Saturday my hips were feeling tight. I rode my bike and my hip felt better. Late Saturday afternoon we headed out to the Magic Kingdom and did a fair amount of walking. We then headed to play miniature golf at the WinterSummerland course near Blizzard Beach. I felt my hips tightening up each time I bent over to pick up my ball - which if you think about it, was at least 18 times.

Sunday I decided against my run. Monday I got up, got dressed and walked outside. It was hot. Really hot. And my hips were bothering me a little bit. I decided to bag my run. And last night I could not find the motivation to get on my bike. I was able to eek out my push ups work out to wrap up the week 1.

Tuesday would be a new day. This morning around 4:30 AM I was awakened by my Big Black Dog on my bed and in my face. There was a thunderstorm and the poor thing was terrified (as usual). By 5:30 AM the whole bed was shaking from the Big Black Dog's trembling and the storm continued. No run again.

I decided that the few days break may be just what I needed. In my never-ending quest to be a "less stupid" runner I am learning and reminded that I need to listen to my body and if it's screaming for a break that take that break.

I am still on the fence about hitting the bike tonight. It is 9:00 PM and I'm just not feeling it.

I am feeling A LOT better after my short break. Weather permitting, tomorrow I will run!

Welcome to the Gun Show

2009-06-20T09:15:00.003-04:00

Last fall I made an attempt to complete the 100 Push Ups Program A few business trips and marathon training got in the way and I fell off the push-up wagon right around week 4.

While this is essentially a six week program I am turning it into a 12 week program because during the first six weeks I'm practicing "girl pus-ups". After the first six weeks, I'll complete the program again, this time with standard push-ups.

I think this will work really well in my overall goal for more cross-training. I am hoping that changing things up a bit and adding a different kind work will help with my fitness and stamina and allow me to score a new PR on October 25, 2009 at the Marine Corps Marathon.

Hot Hot Hot!

2009-06-14T20:12:00.003-04:00

It's that time of year again. The heat has snuck up behind me and kicked me in the ass.

I wanted to embed this one but embedding was disabled by request.

This past week I ran three times. Each one worse than the run before. On my last run I got to the stop light that's about a half mile away from my starting point. As I was waiting for the light to change I thought, how did I ever do this last summer?

Ohhhhhh, that's right, last summer I was inside on the treadmill.

It's going to be hot and I'm going to run. I keep hearing that I'll get used to the heat. I'll let you know how that goes.

Sixteen years ago I lived in downtown Orlando and ran around Lake Cherokee, Lake Davis and Greenwood Urban Wetland Park. I ran without knowing how far I was going, no music, and i wore cotton t-shirts. I loved to run in the heat. morning or evening I was out running. I wonder if it was as hot then as it now... I'm going to channel that 20 year old girl and relish the heat.

Tomorrow I am going to have a great run!

San Diego Pictures

2009-06-05T11:19:00.004-04:00

I don't carry my camera during races. Although I wish I did because I always see things I want to share with everyone but I just can't seem to make it work.

I did take some pictures at the expo that I thought I would share.

My race bib with my timing tag still attached

Goodie Bag Swag

Lots of bloggers and tweeple

With Nik and Dan

With Maritza

Nik, Alisa and Me before entering corral #14

It was so much fun to meet everyone and I hope there will be more opportunities to meet up with my friends again and meet more runners along the way.

Rock and Roll Baby!

2009-06-02T21:37:00.004-04:00

Well Wishes From The Amazing Adam
I started thinking about running the San Diego Rock n Roll Marathon last May when I was in San Diego the weather was perfect and I was cursing myself for not planning to run the race in 2008. So when I made my travel plans for 2009 I did my best to plan a business trip to San Diego the week of the race.

I registered for the race in December and started my training at the end of January. My training was really a mixed bag of some great runs, some decent runs some bad runs and some really, really terrible runs, including the worst race I have ever run.

I struggled a little bit with my long runs and ended up with only one 20 miler. Not exactly what I had in mind, but it's what I had to work with.

Early last Wednesday morning I flew to San Diego, worked three days in the office and then headed to the Gaslamp District to stay at the Horton Grand. It was close to the expo and close enough to the starting line to walk there.

Saturday I went to the expo where I met Nik and Dan , Alisa, Maritza, Tara, Aron and Julianne. It was so great to meet everyone in person.

After the big group separated I walked the expo with Nik and Dan for a bit. I thought I should probably head back and rest so we parted ways with a plan to meet for dinner.

As I headed toward the door I thought I might be sorry if I didn't buy a t-shirt. So I made my way back to the "Official Merchandise" area of the expo and ended up with a t-shirt and a hat.

I walked back to the hotel and rested (not nap, mind you) until dinner time. I met Nik and Dan in the lobby of the hotel and we made our way to Sushi Deli for dinner.

If you have ever listened to 4 Feet Running then you know how funny Nik and Dan are. They are just that funny, and incredibly sweet, in person. It was like meeting up with old friends.

After a fantastic dinner I was back at the hotel, laid out my race gear and went to sleep.

My alarm went off at 4:10 and I was up and going through my morning rituals. I am always so afraid I'll forget something. I was ready to go and I met Nik and Dan in the lobby at 5:10.

We walked to the start together. I went to check my bag and wait in a crazy line for the port-a-potty. I had planned to meet Alisa at our corral sign and was afraid I would be late and miss her, but I made it in time.

Alisa and I have been planning on running together. I had been toying with running to the mile point and walking .05. I started doing that as it grew hotter here and I found that it really didn't effect my pace. We stuck with the plan for quite a while. It was a pleasure to run with my friend. Just before we reached the 10K split, Alisa said the humidity was really bothering her and that I should go on. I wished her luck and continued on my way. Not too much further along the course Dan was standing on the corner cheering. I gave him a high-five and went along my way.

As the course made it's way to the 163 Freeway I felt the trouble beginning. The gradual climb was hard and I thought I should conserve energy and I walk a good part of the hill. I was still feeling strong and I thought I still might be able to go sub 5 or at least PR.

At the halfway point I knew a sub five wasn't going to happen. By mile 16 I thought a PR would still be possible, but it would be close. I stopped and sat on the curb and took about a minute to take my shoes off and shake them out. I kept feeling like there were rocks in my shoes. I never found any evidence of rocks but my feet felt a little better after that exercise.

The course made its way to Pacific Beach. I heard some people talking about the course being tough. I thought to myself "You know, this is really hard." Just then I saw someone holding a yellow sign that said "YOU ARE POWERFUL!" I began to cry. Not sobbing, but there were tears. The second time I have cried in four marathons.

As I approached mile 20 I could see Sea World to my left and a hill straight ahead. You have got to be kidding me? I know San Diego is hilly, but I just was not prepared for the number of hills on the course.

I am by no means a San Diego expert. I know where my office is and I am familiar with the area where the office was before we moved in December. There were several times throughout the run when I would get excited because I knew where I was or something was familiar to me. This was true around the 24th mile. I kept thinking, "I know where I am!!!!! I know where I am!!!!!"

I was hurting but I just kept moving. Slowly, but I was moving.

As I entered the Marine Corps Recruit Depot I high-fived a Marine and he told me there was only a half mile to go. I felt like it was time to MOVE. I was able to push myself as hard as I could and I crossed the finish line in 5:33:18.

I was slightly disappointed with my time, but I truly feel that I did the best could do for the day.

As a volunteer placed my medal around my neck, I cried again.

Overall it was a wonderful experience, I met some great friends and ran another marathon.

I will post pictures from the weekend soon.

Taper

2009-05-22T21:20:00.002-04:00

According to Merriam Webster:

taper
Function: verb
Inflected Form(s): ta·pered; ta·per·ing \ˈtā-p(ə-)riŋ\
Date: 1610
intransitive verb
1 : to become progressively smaller toward one end
2 : to diminish gradually
transitive verb
: to cause to taper

The work has been done. There is nothing more I can do to train for the race. There is no magic potion or formula that will make me Better, Stronger, Faster. The Six Million Dollar Man, I am not.

Yet I can't help but wonder, "Did I do enough? Am I ready? Can I do this?"

My taper is filled with doubt. It always is. My training didn't go exactly as I planned. Even so, I learned from it and overall I feel adequately prepared.

There has been an amazing amount of rain this week. In just over three days we got more than a foot of rain in my area. The fact that I decided not to run in the torrential downpour day after day had an effect on my confidence. Yesterday, I finally caught a break and was able to get four miles in. I was running against darkness and threatening skies, but it was a really nice run. I felt so much better when I was done.

Today the afternoon brought more rain along with thunder and lightning. At dinner time it was probably clear enough for me to go, but I didn't. I have my sights set on tomorrow morning.

I cannot wait to meet all of my friends in San Diego. What an experience! In just one week we'll all be there and in only nine days, I'll be running marathon #4.

It's gonna be great!

17 Days

2009-05-14T20:51:00.003-04:00

Yikes!

It's almost here. The year is flying by and there are a mere 17 days to go until the San Diego Rock n Roll Marathon.

My training has gone fairly well. There were some missed runs. Out of the three scheduled 20 milers I got one in. Not the way I had planned and not what I wanted, but it's what I've got to work with.

I bought a new pair of shoes from Nike.com in preparation for the race.

Aren't they pretty?

Yeah, but there was a problem with them. They didn't dry. My first run was during a trip to Captiva Island. My feet were soggy and my shoes were soaked. It was hot, and more humid than even what I'm used to in Central Florida. My next few runs were relatively short and I didn't have any problems with the shoes.

Saturday during my 20 miler, I noticed the same problem with my new shoes. My socks were wet. So wet, in fact, that at mile 13 I took my socks off and rung them out. By mile 17 my running partner said she could hear me squishing.

Earlier this week I sent the shoes back to Nike.

I sent them to be exchanged but now I'm worried that the replacements won't be here in time.

Tomorrow I may have to make my way to Orlando for some new shoes.

I love San Diego and I'm looking forward to running in that low humidty wonderland.

I am also looking forward to meeting great runners in SD including:

Nik & Dan

Alisa

Marathon Martiza and the ROHOs

It's almost here!

The Good and the Bad

2009-04-20T21:14:00.003-04:00

The Bad

I was planning on writing a race report for the Chasco Challenge Half Marathon that I ran at the end of March in New Port Richey. Let me just say, they ran out of water, it was hot and I felt like I was going to throw up from about mile 5 or 6 through mile 12. It was awful. Just awful.

There is no sense in re-hashing the race that was the worst race I have ever run. Not time-wise, mind you, it was just a bad race.

The Good

Since then I have had some great runs. I am behind logging my runs in my training logs, but the runs are happening - for the most part. I've missed some here and there, but I've been feeling pretty good.

Last week when I came home from a run Darrell said to me, "How was your run?"

"You know, it was one of the best runs I've had in a long time!" I told him.

"Hmmm, that's what you said the other day."

That's when you know your running is good!

San Diego is quickly approaching and I'm feeling good about the race. I can't wait!

Still Kickin'

2009-03-25T21:59:00.002-04:00

I am here.

I've been running.

Last week was a disaster - Due to a trip to San Diego and subsequent jet lag I ended up with a total of seven miles for the week.

I'm working my way back on schedule, but I have been dealing with a lack a motivation.

How am I attacking the motivation issue? I got some new music and made a new playlist. I bought an iPod shuffle to keep things light and to keep me guessing.

I'm wishing for a new and exciting running route. My neighborhood is good for about three or four miles and that's really pushing it.

I've hit a small rough spot, but it's all good.

Race Report :: Princess Half Marathon

2009-03-12T08:40:00.001-04:00

I have been thinking about running the Princess Half Marathon since last May at the last Women Run the World 15K when I first learned of the half marathon was coming.

On Thursday I was planning on a six mile run. About a half mile in my shins started hurting. I thought about toughing it out, but decided that was a bad move. After a mile and a quarter, I turned around and headed back. I was just hurting too bad. How was I ever going to run a half marathon in three days?

I rested and other than heading to the expo (which was a little disappointing) I laid low and rested until Sunday morning. I tried to get to bed early Saturday night, but didn't make it there until nearly 9:00 PM. Great. Six hours of sleep, I can deal with that. Oh, wait... Daylight Savings Time began. Scratch that. Five hours of sleep... Grrrr.

The back of my race day shirt

My alarm went off Sunday morning at 3:10 AM and I was out the door around 4:00 AM. I made the drive to EPCOT and played the waiting game. One of the downfalls about Disney races is the waiting. And if you're by yourself, it really kinda sucks to wait by yourself.

I stretched, put my iPod on, put my Garmin on thought about checking my bag, but decided to make a trip to the porta-potty. I was stopped on the way by a girl I had met (with her mom and sister) at the Orange Blossom Half Marathon. We chatted for several minutes which was really nice. It meant a longer line for the porta-potty and then an incredible line for the bag check. I met a nice mom and daughter combo from Rochester, New York. It was their first half marathon and they were pretty excited.

I made my way to the starting corral about ten minutes before the race start. I was supposed to be in Corral A but I was told that all A & B's needed to file into Corral B. No worries. It's the chip time I'm interested in anyway. Once the race started it took me more than nine minutes to cross the starting line. I felt great. I spent the first half mile passing people. The weather was nice and cool and it felt so good to be out there running! And then, just like that, my shins were hurting. The camber on the off ramp to World Drive made them hurt even more.

How was I ever going to finish this race? I was really worried.

The second mile was slower than the first(and the slowest mile of the day) but I kept moving. I made it to the medical tent and got a few pumps of Biofreeze and I applied it to my shins and calves. It's amazing how quickly it worked. I was starting to feel better.

The course, was nearly identical to the regular Disney Half Marathon course, so there were no big surprises. Soon I was in the Magic Kingdom running down Main Street USA. If you want the experience of running at Disney but would like a better chance to see your family, there were far less spectators at this race. There were still plenty of people there, but I would guess there was a quarter of the people that were there in January.

I ran through the castle and there were lots of girls angling to get their pictures taken together - very cute.

As I ran through the backstage area of the Magic Kingdom I stopped at the medical tent for more Biofreeze.

I was feeling pretty good but I didn't want to push myself to the point of really screwing things up. I was running at a good pace, but still holding back a little.

I stopped again at the next medical tent. I really wasn't hurting, but I didn't want to chance it either. As I ran up the overpass I was actually passing people on the hill and I was thankful for my time spent on the Lane Park Hills lately.

At the final medical tent, I stopped for more Biofreeze - and I actually got some on my shoe as a souvenir.

I crossed the last few cruel overpass hills and crossed the 12 mile mark and I was headed into Future World. EPCOT was open and there were a lot of people in the park. I was feeling really good and I knew I was almost done. I was going to finish strong. As I passed Spaceship Earth, I passed the mom and daughter combo from New York and I just kept going. The 13th mile was my fastest mile of the day!

The Medal

I crossed the finish line in 2:34:45. It wasn't the time I was hoping for, but I knew on Thursday I needed a new game plan. It's all good and I'll be back for sure for 2010!

What I Didn't Miss

2009-02-22T20:14:00.004-05:00

It was a busy weekend.

We were at a Mini event all day yesterday (for photos click here). I was on my feet all day. We spent the evening at Old Town as a part of the Mini event and I ate more than my fair share of cotton candy. We got home around 10:00 PM and I was beat.

And after a full night's sleep I still felt tired. I made breakfast and waited for that moment when I finally felt energized. Waiting, waiting, waiting...

I was tired, but I had no intention of missing my run. I finally got to downtown Tavares around 1:45 PM. I was thankful that it was cooler this weekend than last.

I had spent some time thinking of the best route to run. Tavares is sandwiched between three lakes and I haven't found a route that is more than ten miles out and back.

I had a plan to combine two of my out and backs to get 13 miles in. So I got at it.

What would I have missed if I had decided to skip my run today?

1.) A Turkey Vulture standing on dead opposum on the edge of someone's yard and the Tavares Trail.

2.) Yelling at a lady in a Corvette. This route requires crossing S.R. 19. It's a pretty big intersection, but there are stop lights and walk / don't walk signs. I waited and finally got the walk signal. As I ran across the intersection, an older lady with over-done old lady hair and far too much make-up on in a yellow Corvette was turning right on red. She saw me and then started to dare me to finish crossing the intersection by revving her engine and scooting forward bit by bit. I yelled that I had the right of way. I also called her a stupid bitch. Her windows were up and I doubt she was paying any attention to me at that point.

3.) A lady with CRAZY hair. My route takes me past a McDonald's which is entertaining enough by itself. This lady was leaving the parking lot. I assumed she had just left the drive-thru. She had her hair in a ponytail, but the front part was plastered to her head. There was some product in there because it looked wet. And off-set just off the center of her forehead was a single curl - also glued down with product. I wish I could find a picture to share. It was just crazy!

4.) The wrap up of a bass tournement on Lake Eustis. It's interesting to get a little snippet of something I don't know anything about, but is pretty popular where I live.

5.) The Bahia Shrine Camel. the Central Florida Shriners haul a camel around to their events in a converted school bus. Just before I reached the 7th mile, the bus passed me with the camel sticking his head out the back of the bus as they cruised down Hwy. 441.

6.) An old man in silver Elvis sunglasses.

7.) A sea plane do a touch and go on Lake Dora.

8.) An old man flash his brights at me telling me to get out of the road (there are no sidewalks on this part of the route). As he flew past me at about 50 MPH in a 35 MPH zone. Seriously???

I should tell you that there are a ton of snowbirds here this time of year. I'm not picking on old people, there are just a lot of them here.

9.) The Inland Lakes Railway. I saw the train coming down the tracks and I heard the whistle blowing. I just missed it going right past me.

10.) Another runner. I knew they were here. I have heard that others existed. Just after I got to my final turn-around I saw another runner. Nice.

My run today wasn't fantastic because I was tired and hadn't done a fantastic job of eating yesterday - there just wasn't a lot of gas in the tank. I never would have seen those things had I not gotten out there.

What's worse than a bad or disappointing run?

No run at all. That's what.

Woo Hoo!

2009-02-17T17:04:00.002-05:00

**Due to some blog craziness, I had to re-post. I lost all of your comments and I didn't even get to read them. I'm sorry.**

I am very excited with the progress of my training. Now, I know I'm only one day into my fourth week, but so far, things are going very well.

I have been running with purpose and while my schedule is laid out (with a few minor modifications -Thanks Shirley) I have decided it to take it week by week. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming when you look at a long-term training plan, but knowing what I have to do only this week is turning out to be much more manageable for me.

I am really enjoying running outside. We all thought, me included, that I was a die-hard treadmiller, but getting outside more and more has totally changed that. And I just knew if I stuck with it, I would get some satisfaction from running the hills on my street.

I know what you're thinking. Florida is flat, there aren't any hills. Well, kinda... There aren't a lot of hills and the hills we have might make people who live in the bay area, like Maritza, laugh at our hills, but the hills on my street, which I didn't even acknowledge for the first three years I lived here, are pretty darn steep and a few weeks ago they were a challenge to climb.

Last week I noticed that the hills were getting a little easier. Even the second hill that's just past the first mile. There is a cruel optical illusion and a poorly placed intersection that makes one believe they have reached the top of the hill, when what you have really done is reached a very small plateau and there is still more climbing ahead.

I was pretty pleased that last Monday I averaged a 10:16 pace for my three mile route. The week of January 26th, the first week of San Diego Training I was running my three mile route in the 10:50's. Today I completed it with a 9:58 average pace. WooHoo!

Happy, happy, happy!

With just less than 15 weeks to go, I can't wait to see how things shake out

Lady Track Shack 5K :: Race Report

2009-02-09T20:33:00.003-05:00

I was a little apprehensive about the Lady Track Shack 5K. I've been feeling pretty slow lately and I just knew I would be heartbroken if I ran it slower than 30 minutes.

It has been nearly a year since I ran my last 5K, which also happened to be my 5K PR (27:12). Now, Saturday, I had no plan to run a PR race, but I did want to come in under 30 minutes.

There is always a lot of hustle and bustle at these races. Walkers (three across, mind you) that line up in the 7 minute pace area. The first half mile there is always a lot of dodging people, running on people's lawns and just trying to find a hole to run in.

Right after the first mile my friend Cheryl came up behind me. She said she had been chasing me since the race started. We had planned to meet before the start but we didn't find each other. We ran together for a little while and she fell back.

The course cruises around the Winter Park High School 9th Grade Center and loops through a neighborhood a quarter mile or less from my alma mater, Rollins College. And just like that, it heads back to Mead Gardens.

As I entered the Gardens and neared the finish line I heard some cheering, just for me. It was Shirley! I looked for her earlier at packet pick up, but I never saw her. It was so nice to hear some cheers from a friend!

I knew that it had taken me some time to cross the mats at the start, when I crossed the finish line the clock said 30:15. I thought I had done it. My Garmin said 29:51 and I was cool with that. My chip time was 29:49. A ways off from my PR, but I met my goal of under 30 minutes!

I grabbed a bottle of water, a banana, a cup of strawberries and I made my way to the entrance to the Gardens. I was meeting my new Twitter friend Sultana She is training for the Princess Half Marathon and she needed to get in a few more miles. In my quest to stick to my plan, I also wanted to get some additional miles in, and the change of scenery was nice too. We ran the first part of the course as we had earlier in the morning and then we looped around and ran the course in reverse.

It was great to meet her and it was a lot of fun to run with her too.

I ended up with 6.29 miles in 1:02:57. I'm starting to feel like my old self again.

Making it Happen

2009-02-04T20:41:00.006-05:00

Why did I go out to lunch?

I ate too much.

Now I feel sluggish.

The afternoon was busy with email and phone calls.

It's cold outside.

I had to take Darrell to pick up his car from the shop.

How did it get to be 7:00 PM?

Under normal circumstances this would be a perfect day to skip my run. Sometimes it's hard to fight through the challenges of the day and get to it.

But by 7:15 PM I had changed my clothes and I was on the treadmill.

Running on days when you don't think you can possibly squeeze it in is a nice escape from a busy day.

I ran 3 miles. Just as Uncle Higgy prescribed.

*************************************************************************************

On a whim, and lured by a long sleeve tech shirt, rumored to be pink, I registered for the Lady Track Shack 5K this Saturday in Winter Park.

I've run this race several times and I really enjoy it. I'm planning on running the course twice to get my scheduled miles in with a change of scenery. I'm looking forward to it.

San Diego, Here I Come

2009-01-30T19:13:00.004-05:00

It's unbelievable that I am already back to marathon training. When I originally decided to run the San Diego Rock n Roll Marathon I thought I would have more than a month of free running before I jumped back into training. May 31st seemed like so far away.

It'll be here before you know it!

I was surprised to see that when I started planning that training would start on January 26th. I decided to use the Hal Higdon Advanced I Training Plan. This is roughly the same plan I used for Chicago and Goofy. I always seemed to bail on my hills, speed and tempo runs. Add my groin injury just before Chicago complicated things.

What will be different this time?

With the great weather we've been having along with a treadmill that was thought to be out of commission, I've been running outside and on hills. As flat as Florida is, my street has it's fair share of hills. I am starting to really enjoy being out there, although it does require a watchful eye without the luxury of sidewalks. I'm going to spend more time running outside and keep my treadmill runs to a minimum (with the exception of speed work.)

I've had some problems with the treadmill shutting off and throwing an error. Darrell made an adjustment to the belt and yesterday, just in time for the rain, I was back on the treadmill for my speed work. I think it's a lot easier to run that at a steady pace on the treadmill. The schedule calls for hills in week one, but with the hills on my regular runs, I thought I would swap the hills for the speed.

I'm feeling excellent five days into training. I'm so excited about what the next 17+ weeks have in store. It's going to be a great race!

Goofy Race Report Day 2

2009-01-21T22:58:00.005-05:00

Saturday when I got home, I took a shower ate some lasagna and took a nap. I then lazed in bed watching trashy Saturday afternoon TV.

At 4:15 Darrell and I headed to Lake Mary to have dinner at Amura. We had eaten there the night before my last 20 miler and I was happy with the way I felt that day.

We were home by 6:45 and for the second night in a row, it was an early night and it was lights off at 7:30.

Sunday morning I slept until 2:15 AM - Cheryl was coming to my house so I was able to get a few more minutes of sleep. Once again by 3:00 AM we were on the road headed to EPCOT.

Cheryl and I arrived and were still at the car getting the things we needed and leaving behind what we didn't when I heard "Maddy?"

It was Leana! I was so excited to see her. We ran into each other in San Francisco at the start of the race and for the second time with hopes of meeting up, she found me!

We made our way to baggage claim A - C and this time we were able to find Marathon Chris and her husband, Jim.

Leana, me, Marathon Chris, Jim and Cheryl

Soon it was time to head to starting line. We checked our bags and started our walk to the starting line. We made one last porta-potty stop and found our corral. It was like deja vu. Music was blaring and Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy came out to help count us down to the start.

We ran the roads around EPCOT, through the parking lot and into the park. We headed through Future World and then to the World Showcase. We ran through Mexico, China and to Norway. As we exited the park through a "backstage" area we met up with the other group that ran a different route. We were back at the start and began the same route we had run the day before.

I saw my friend Dawn spectating at the Ticket and Transportation Center. It was nice to see her! Right near mile 10 Cheryl and I caught up to Marathon Chris and her husband. They slowed for a walk break and we passed them. Seeing friends really helps to boost your spirits!

We entered the Magic Kingdom and ran down Main Street and through Tomorrowland and through the Cinderella's Castle. Once we left the park we made a stop at an aid station. Cheryl needed bio-freeze and I grabbed a towel to dry my face and get some of the sweat out my eyes.

Right about mile 13 Cheryl said she was hurting. we walked a bit, and ate bananas. This is a tough part of the course with no crowd support and the pleasant odor of Disney's treatment plant.

We kept moving and we made it to Animal Kingdom. The miles just kept ticking away. At the 19th mile we were walking. It hurt me to walk, but it was hurting Cheryl to run. I kept one eye on the Garmin and we just kept moving. We walked through Hollywood Studios I was so excited to see Jim (Runner Geezer 26.2) at the chocolate station. He saw my bandanna coming and started waving! We said hello. It was so uplifting to get some encouragement from a friend at that point.

At mile 24 there was a slight bridge that I couldn't walk up. I started to run up the hill. Cheryl was right behind me. We kept running. We were almost there!

We ran through the last water stop and just kept plugging along.

Out goal was to finish the race between 5:30 and 6:00 - We crossed the finish line in 5:56:59.

Whew! It was a great experience and I was so thrilled to complete both races.

My Prize

The next day, I registered to do it again in 2010!

Goofy Race Report - Day 1

2009-01-15T22:30:00.003-05:00

Last Friday night, I set my alarm for 2:00 AM. I crawled into bed at 7:15 and by 7:45 I was asleep. I woke up Saturday morning at 1:54 and I knew I would never get back to sleep. I quietly got dressed and headed to the kitchen. I ate a cinnamon raisin bagel with peanut butter. I grabbed my bag of gear I set out the night before and by 2:30 I was on the road headed to my friend Cheryl's house.

We left Cheryl's house at 3:00 AM and we were on the road for EPCOT. We arrived just before 4:00 AM. It was just a little chilly. I was wearing a Christmas Thermal that I purchased on clearance earlier in the week for $2.50 over my race shirt.

Back of my race shirt

While I was shopping for disposable clothes, I also picked up a few fleece blankets for $5.00 each. I thought that if it was warm enough I could sit on it while we waited for the race to start, or if it was chilly I could wrap up in it. One of the best investments I have ever made. I wrapped up in the blanket until just minutes before the race started.

We spent some time relaxing near the A-C baggage claim. A mere 50 feet from where Marathon Chris and her husband were relaxing. Before I knew it, we were checking bags and headed on the long walk to the starting corrals. Just before we entered our corral, we made one last stop at the porta-potties.

There was a lot of excitement. Music was playing, videos and movie clips were shown on big screens. Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy came out wished us all luck and then POW! Fireworks signaled the start of the race.

We ran in the darkness down the road in front of EPCOT and made a turn toward the Magic Kingdom. Cheryl and I had spent some time in the weeks leading up to the race talking about our finish goals. We agreed that we would run a pretty conservative half marathon and we were shooting for a 2:30 - 2:45 finish. It was my job to keep an eye on our pace.

I would call our mile splits as my Garmin reported them. And if at any time we were going too fast, I would tell Cheryl that we needed to slow down. It was a pretty good system. We had some faster times running down Disco Road. In the Magic Kingdom parking lot, athletes can make a choice to run down the Headbanger Highway or Disco Road (Disco Avenue?) Burn Baby Burn, Disco Inferno!

Are speed also picked up just a bit as we ran through the Ticket and Transportation Center. Other than Main Street in the Magic Kingdom, this is the best place for crowd support. Several people read my name on my shirt and yelled "Go Maddy!" It certainly helps to push you forward!

We ran into the Magic Kingdom and the crowd was intense! So many people were cheering for all of the runners. We ran through Tomorrowland and into Fantasyland. We ran through Cinderella's castle and tried to make sure that the photographers had a good shot of us together.

Right after we left the castle, we passed the six mile mark. And then, for the first time ever in a race, I stopped at a bathroom. No porta-pottie here. A real bathroom with sinks and mirrors in Frontierland!

We left the Magic Kingdom and we were on our way back to EPCOT. We passed the Grand Floridian and Polynesian Hotels. A lot of the same spectators from the Transportation and Ticket Center made their way over to cheer for us again.

The next part of the race is the long and lonely stretch of road that is two turns away from EPCOT. It went suprisingly fast. We were maintaining a decent pace and walking through water stops.

The most difficult part of the race from a technical standpoint is negotiating the on ramp interchange. With it's high banks and 45 degree angle, I can only imagine that there have been a few turned ankles on this piece of the course.

There were some rolling hills and one more on-ramp type bridge(no bank. This one has quite a hill. At the end of the bridge was the sign for the 12 mile mark. The signs are very clever and sponsored by Sharpie There was no missing these signs.

There was only mile to go!

We made our way into EPCOT and did a quick loop just to the entrance of the World Showcase. and then we were headed back toward Spaceship Earth.

Almost there!

We kept moving along. We passed the Gospel Choir. and the finish line was in sight.

Keeping it conservative, we decided there would be no kick at the end. We crossed the finish line together in 2:33:37 right on target!

We received our Donald Medals and headed to the medical tent to have our knees iced as a preemptive strike for Sunday. It worked wonders!

We made our way to the Goofy tent to have our Orange Goofy bracelets replaced with Blue Goofy bracelets.

We picked up our checked bags and high tailed it back home.

I needed to rest up to start it all over again on Sunday.

Follow Me Next Weekend

2009-01-04T20:26:00.001-05:00

If you would like to track my progress next weekend during the Goofy Race and a Half Challenge, please click here and follow me for the Half and the Full Marathon.

You'll need my last name and if you don't know it, look at my email address on my profile page you should be able to figure it out.

2009 Goals

2008-12-28T15:11:00.001-05:00

2008 was a pretty good year. I had some injuries and I've suffered from some general malaise regarding running lately, but overall, it's been a good one.
I have spent some time thinking about my plans for next year. They are:

I'm Moving

A new blog address. Someone made a comment that my blog address has been outdated for a while. Also, the RSS feed never, ever worked the way it was supposed to, so I am going to find a new home. Keep checking back. As soon as it's ready, I'll let you know where you can find me.

Mileage

Annual Mileage: 1,500 - I was on track for my mileage goal of 1,200 for 2008 until the middle of September and the wheels just sort of fell off. I would like to make my mid-distance mid-week run a little more consistent. That should be a big boost to get to that mileage goal. That's 125 miles a month.

Jazzing It Up

Regular Speedwork and Hillwork. Especially with my Spring / Summer Marathon in San Diego, I am going to need the hillwork. So I'm putting it out there so you can help keep me accountable.

Food

Eat like my life depends on it. Now that doesn't mean shoveling in whatever. My nutrition has taken a hit lately. I need to return to better eating habits that always seem to get lost in December. This goal includes reducing processed food, girl-sized portions and limit my visits to restaurants.

Welcome to the Gun Show

I have said for that last few years that after X race I am going to start weight training. This year I mean it. No Bull! so after the Goofy Race it will begin.

Wait, There's More...

I have not been very good at cross training and stretching, so I want to include a little more of that into my life. Some yoga, more biking, things like that.

San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon

My goal time for the San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon is a new PR - I would like that time to be less than 5 hours. That's where the speedwork and hillwork are going to be essential to making that happen. My other goal for this race is to have the option run without a shirt. It will mean a lot

of core work, but I think I can do it. It doesn't mean I'll run in just a sports bra, but I want to have the option.

Then What?

I am thinking about a fall or winter marathon for next year. I want something close that won't require a lot of travel. There has been talk about a full marathon in Tavares. Clermont is in option, as is Marathon of the Palm Beaches and Miami (although that wouldn't be until 2010). I have plenty of time to decide, but I'm throwing it out there.

Wow! That looks like a lot, but I'm sure that if I work hard, I can accomplish all of these goals.

I would love your feedback.

Is Anybody Out There

2008-12-14T16:20:00.002-05:00

I have been terrible about blogging. I have been reading yours, just not commenting as I should.

I ran another half marathon - The OUC Half Marathon on December 6th. My time was slower than my time for the Orange Blossom Half, but for some reason, I wasn't terribly bothered by it this time.

I've gained a few pounds and I know it's easier to run when I'm less fat.

The Goofy Race is quickly approaching. My running has been going okay, but not as well or as far as I would like. I'll get through it though. I am confident about that.

At this point, I'm looking forward to getting the race behind me. It seems like I've been training forever and I'm ready to put it to bed and focus on other races.

I registered for a late spring /early summer marathon. I'll be running the San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon on May 31st. I am setting some goals for that race - other than to finish (which is my goal for Goofy).

I was in San Diego this week and I had a few really nice runs. I had planned on my long run before my flight yesterday, but after the Christmas party and too much time in big girl shoes, I really didn't feel like it. Today I'm feeling jet-lagged and I am pushing my long run to Monday afternoon.

Expect a more frequent posting schedule. Almost a month is too long...

Long Overdue :: Orange Blossom 1/2 Race Report

2008-11-17T08:56:00.002-05:00

Last Sunday, I woke up and I was pretty excited. For the first time since I moved from Winter Park, nearly four and half years ago, there was a race I was running that was 10 minutes from my house. The closest I have ever been was the 5K in Leesburg back in March.

I drove to Wooton Park along Lake Dora, picked up my goodie bag and wnet back to my car. The temperatures were cool and I was dressed for running. The croud was sparse. I would guess there were a little more than 100 runners and while there were porta-potties there were realy bathrooms in the park without a line. I made my obligatory bathroom stop and then headed up to Main Street. I met three women, a mother and her two daughters who were running together. I thought that was really sweet. They were really nice ladies. They are planning on running Disney's Princess Half Marathon and the mother wanted to see how much work she would need to do between now and March.

Very close to 7:00 AM The Orange Blossom Half Marathon was underway. The course headed West and made a loop then headed down Lake Dora Drive. We then cut into a neighborhood and headed back towards the West and made the same loop and headed AGAIN down Lake Dora Drive. I really prefer a point to point course, but I don't mind an out and back course either. I realized on Sunday that I don't like an "Out and Back and Out and Back Again" course.

Even with a small race like this there were a cast of characters. One person I really wanted to beat was an older man (later looking at race results, I figured out he was 71 years old). Now, I don't take any pleasure in beating old men, but there was just something about this old guy running in jean shorts that I really wanted beat. I finally passed him somewhere during the fifth mile.

I have added to and listened to the same playlist since July. I can judge where I am mile-wise by the song that is playing. Around the six mile mark, I felt like something was off. My Nike+ which isn't always very accurate was saying more than six miles. I was approaching a woman with a Garmin on. I asked her what it said. It was close to 6 1/2 miles. I told her I bet that at the end of the race it would read 13.6 miles.

We ran down the same road until we reached Mt. Dora. Apparently, Mt.Dora wanted nothing to do with this race. And we turned around over the chip mats and we headed back to downtown Tavares. I called this "Welcome To Mt.Dora, Now Get The Hell Out Point".

The legenth of the course played a mental number on my head. I don't know why, but I was struggling with knowing I was going to have to go further than I had planned. And I kept telling myself I was being silly, but it really affected my mental game.

Soon enough, somewhere in the ninth or tenth mile, The Old Man was coming up behind me. He was talking trash to me. It's so funny. I couldn't see him, but I could hear him coming. He was saying "Here I am!", "I'm coming up on you!" "I'm not dead!" and then he passed me. And I just couldn't keep up with him. It was hillarious. And good for him! He ended up finishing about four minutes ahead of me.

I think the out is always a lot better than the back. On Saturday my SPI Belt went MIA. I had it on the table (I know, not a good place for it...) and it was moved. although nobody remembers moving it or where it might have ended up. This played a negative part in my fueling plan. My tank was running low on fuel later in the race. I only brought with me what I could carry. One pack of Sport Beans that I took in about five miles in. Poor planning on my part.

My official finish time (13.6 miles) was: 2:30:43 My adjusted half marathon time is: 2:24:58.

I reminded myself that this wasn't a race I planned on trying for a PR and I really ran it to support a local race and to have fun.

Yes, I was annoyed that the course was longer than it should have been, but overall, it was fun. The weather was nice and there were plenty of water stops. I met some cool people, and hey, I was showed up by a 71 year old man.

It's all good.

When Did I...

2008-11-06T20:41:00.002-05:00

...Become the world's worst blogger.

My post have become really inconsistent and I think that sucks.

So, I'm back and blogging. I'm sure you've be dying to know what's been going on with me (not!)

I've suffered from a small lack of mojo. October was my second lowest mileage month for the year and half of the miles I ran for the entire month were run on one day.

All of a sudden I feel invigorated!

Sunday I planned on meeting my friend Cheryl in Winter Garden and run 12 miles with her. She was running 20 miles and I was going to run a portion with her. On Saturday I lent my car to my sister and I had planned on driving my husband's car. I was ready to go and the car wouldn't start.

I called Cheryl to tell her that I wouldn't be joining her. I went back to sleep. But don't think that I didn't get my run in. Sunday afternoon, while my husband was on his way to get a new battery for his car, I ran my scheduled 12 and I felt pretty good.

Tuesday, my sister still had my car and my husband went with our son on a field trip to Forever Florida. My plan was to run to the poll to vote. I left my house around 7:50 AM and headed out. I faced some challenging terrain including some wild uncut grass next to an orange grove. I felt really good about multi-tasking. I wanted to run and I wanted to vote. Check and check!

Today I had 6 x 800s on my schedule. I ran them on the treadmill and I really enjoyed it. It was the best run I've had in a long, long time.

This Sunday a lot of the local runners I know will be in Celebration at the 10K and 5K or both - You know who you are... I will not be there. I have always wanted to run that 10K. The very first 5K I ran was this race. At the time a 10K seemed like an impossible distance. Can you imagine running 6 miles?

I won't be there on Sunday because I will be running the Orange Blossom Half Marathon in my town of Tavares, FL. I felt like it was really important to support a truly local race. I'm not really going into this with any particular goal. I just want to go out and have a good time and get my long run with water stops.

I'm looking forward to it!

Runner's Roundtable

2008-10-29T17:27:00.002-04:00

I am getting back in the swing of things and ramping my training back up as I prepare for Disney's Goofy Race and a Half Challenge. I'm looking forward to improving myself over the next few months as I strive for 1,200 miles for the year and an awesome Marathon Weekend at the house of mouse.

Today, I was lucky enough to be an invited guest on the Runner's Roundtable Episode #7. I shared my Chicago Marathon experience with Petra and Charlie. Melisa was there in spirit.

Not only was the Chicago Marathon an amazing experience, re-living it again with my friends and sharing it was a lot of fun!

Hats Around the World

2008-10-25T10:28:00.002-04:00

My sister came to town a few days early for a conference she's attending at Disney. Yesterday we went to EPCOT. I decided to wear my pedometer - just to see how far we walked while we were there.

It was a total of 13 1/2 miles. I was figuring that it would be close to eight miles. I was surprised to see the end result. Now I know there is more benefit in walking than not doing anything, i.e. sitting on the couch, but this distance was really covered at a strolls pace.

I had a great time with my sister! We decided that as we made our way around the World Showcase, we would have our pictures taken with silly hats when we could find them.

Hats Around the World:

Nike Makes Amends

2008-10-22T20:08:00.002-04:00

This was posted on a Nike+ Forum today:

Hi all,

Nike is announcing today that it recognizes Arien O'Connell as a winner in last weekend’s Nike Women’s Marathon with the fastest chip time, completing the full race in 2:55:11. She shattered her previous time and achieved an amazing accomplishment.

Arien will receive the same recognition and prize, including a Tiffany & Co. bowl, the full marathon elite group winner received. Arien was unfortunately not immediately recognized as a race winner because she did not start the race with the elite running group, which is required by USATF standards. Because of their earlier start time, the runners in the elite group had no knowledge of the outstanding race Arien was running and could not adjust their strategies accordingly.

Learning from the unique experience in this year’s race, Nike has decided today to eliminate the elite running group from future Nike Women's Marathons. Next year, all runners will run in the same group and all will be eligible to win.

Nike has a proven track record of supporting athletes and we’re proud to be able to honor Arien and other athletes who surpass their goals and achieve great accomplishments.

Cheers,

Nike+ / Nike Running

Yay Nike! It just shouldn't have taken two days.

Congratulations Arien!

Nike = FAIL

2008-10-21T17:25:00.002-04:00

This article made it rounds on Twitter today. It seems that the woman who ran the fastest time didn't win because she was not registered as an "elite". What? I'm sorry, that's crap. If she ran faster than anyone else then didn't she win?

"At this point," Nike media relations manager Tanya Lopez said Monday, "we've declared our winner."

Okay, Ms. Lopez, you declared a winner but not the correct winner. You may have declared the top three elites, but clearly, Arien O'Connell ran a faster race.

According to Jim Estes, associate director of the long-distance running program for USA Track and Field, "The theory is that, because they had separate starts, they weren't in the same race."

Run Together? Well, Maybe Not...

If they weren't running the same race, then shouldn't there have been prizes for this other race?

It extremely frustrating to me that Nike, the top sponsor for this race chose to snub their noses at Arien O'Connell. What a missed opportunity for Nike to admit their mistake, or lack of forethought, and create an award for the fastest time, or something. If I were Nike I would be on the phone with Arien O'Connell right now making this right!

If I were in the marketing department of another shoe and clothing company, perhaps Reebok, Adidas, Sauconny, Asics, you get the idea... I would try to right Nike's wrong for them!

Nike, you still have a few minutes to redeem yourselves, but the clock is ticking.

Race Report :: Chicago Marathon

2008-10-16T22:01:00.002-04:00

A painted building on the Kennedy Expressway - Taken in the car.

Friday at the Expo with Charlie, Petra and my daughter, Chase.

After an amazing dinner (a recommendation from Runner Geezer 26.2) on Saturday evening joined by Petra, Charlie and his family, Melisa, her husband and their support crew, my family and I called it an early night. I had all of my marathon preparations taken care of, I packed the majority of our belongings and I was in bed at 10:30 PM.

Bill, Melisa, Charlie, Me, my son Stone and Petra.

I slept well and I only woke up once during the night. And when my alarm went off at 5:45 AM Sunday morning, I was ready to start the day.

I had a plan to meet Petra in the lobby of my hotel at 6:30. With one broken elevator, it took a few extra minutes to get down 37 floors. Petra and I walked to Charlie and Melisa's hotel. We met out front for a few pictures, spent a few minutes chatting and then we all headed to the port-a-potty lines. The lines moved really quickly and we made our way to the starting corrals.

It had been chilly for most of the week and I was prepared for some cooler weather. I bought a thermal underwear shirt and cut it up the front jacket style. My thought was use it for warmth for the first few miles. Before the race even started I had placed it in the corral fence. It was warm enough in a sleeveless shirt. I just didn't know how warm it would end up being.

At the Expo with Petra.

Petra and I said our good-byes to Charlie, Melisa and Bill, Mr. Irish Blue, and found our place between the 10:00 and 11:00 pace signs.

Soon enough we were on our way. Okay, so it took us about 15 minutes to cross the start line. But then we were moving.

The first few miles were a blur. We looked for my family as we crossed the first bridge around the 1.5 mile mark. My kids made signs and they were looking forward to cheering us on. We didn't see them.

The next bridge pass over the Chicago River was around the 2.5 mile mark. Again, Petra and I looked through the crowd, but we didn't see them. the course took us North through some really pretty parts of the city. We passed a band and during the middle of a song the singer stopped singing and said "Go Petra! Go Maddy!" Our names on our shirts absolutely made us feel like rockstars!

Near 6 miles, we saw a couple with laminated signs pinned to their back that said they were completing their 50 marathons in 50 states that day. I noticed that the man was wearing a Track Shack shirt. I spoke to them briefly, they are from Oviedo, just on the other side of Orlando. Petra and I congratulated them and moved on.

Soon we saw Petra's hosts and they took a few pictures as we went by. We continued on through Old Town and passed the restaurant where we had eaten the night before.

The miles were blending together and although I had slowed down a little bit, I was still feeling pretty good. We turned onto Hubbard Street and I told Petra that I thought it was a requirement that I looked strong on Hubbard Street. She agreed.

We soon made our final pass over the Chicago River. Finally, finally when I was parallel with my family I saw them. they had missed me also at their other two attempts. I yelled to them and they waved, I kept moving along. We had not prepared well with specific meeting spots. I had no idea until after the race that there would be 1.5 million spectators.

Petra and I made it to the half at 2:25:00 We were running the city and there was still ample amounts of shade provided by the sky scrapers. Once we made our way South the shade disappeared and the temperature soared.

Once we were out of the downtown area a woman was offering ibuprofen with small cups of water, I gladly took two. My groin, while noticeable, was not really bothering me, and I really wanted to keep it that way.

I knew I was holding Petra back and I told her to go ahead. She refused. She would get about 20 yards ahead, walk and once I caught up, she would start running with me again. Throughout the race we had walked each water stop. It was really just too congested to not walk. At this point I was looking forward to the upcoming water stops for an opportunity to walk just for a minute.

When we got to Mile 17, I said to Petra, "Single digits to go!" At one point again, I urged her to go on without me, she said no.

I could no longer take in the Gatorade they were offering. I had switched to water only. to this point in the race I had consumed three packs of watermelon sport beans. Between the beans and the Gatorade, my stomach had too much - not really sweet, just too much. I did take the Twizzlers, Skittles and Jolly Ranchers I was offered - more to keep my mind off of what was still ahead of me.

Petra was just a saint, an amazing friend, and a fabulous person. The poor thing, it seemed that every time she spoke to me, I said "What?" and she repeated herself. I was concentrating so hard on moving forward, I was having a hard time comprehending anything else. But throughout it all she stayed with me. And for that I am thankful!

Right at mile 20 there was a water stop. I was really having a tough time of it. Petra knowing that I had dedicated each mile to someone went into pep talk mode, just as I had gone face-first into "the wall".

"Who is mile 20 for Maddy?" Petra asked.

"My Mom." I said, as I burst into tears. I was really feeling like I had just had it.

Petra was so calm and explained to me that she knew my mother would be so proud of me and that I was setting an amazing example for my children. She also said that we were not only going to run this mile for my mom, but for Baby Isaac.

She grabbed my hand and I was pumped up. We continued on and over the next six miles I received nothing but encouragement and kind words from my friend.

Five miles to go, that's nothing, you do that in the morning before work.

Four miles left, piece of cake.

A guy a work with owns a loft at mile 23, he explained to me where it was and told me to keep an eye out for it. That entertained me for a half mile or so. I never did find it. Again I asked Petra to go on. She told me that she had stuck with me for 23 miles and there was no way she was leaving me for the last three. I was so grateful! It was HOT, I was struggling, but I had someone who would not give up on me.

Before I knew it we had one mile to go. Petra grabbed my hand and said that she would hold my hand as long as I needed her to. We were going to finish this thing!

We made our way up the biggest hill of course, which is really just mean turned onto Columbus Avenue. The finish line was right there!

We crossed in 5:14:34 - A PR for me and a PW for Petra.

I cannot thank Petra enough for her kindness and sticking with me for the entire race. Without her help and urging, I don't think this would have been a PR Race for me.

The Prize

After my second marathon, I know I am not done yet. There are many more marathons in me.

Chicago Marathon Results

2008-10-13T12:21:00.002-04:00

I will post a proper race report soon.

Finish Time: 5:14:34

A new PR although I was well off my goal.

It was HOT!

I'm Not Dead

2008-10-08T22:50:00.002-04:00

It seems that after my groin injury, I fell off the face of the earth.

I spent some time healing and resting. And then I got busy.

I spent time getting ready for back to back trips and just as preparations were wrapping up, the fun got started.

Last Monday, I travelled to San Diego for my company's user conference. It was a full week of catching up with clients face to face and learning a lot about how people are applying best practices to their campaigns.

I managed to get a few five plus mile runs in around Coronado Island. It was nice.

I arrived back in Orlando Friday around 5:00 PM.

Saturday, I was back at the airport Saturday at 9:00 AM for our flight to Chicago.

We have spent the last several days in Wisconsin. Visiting with family, checking out some attractions and just relaxing.

Tomorrow we are headed back to Chicago to check out the city and then, apparently there is some race, I'm going to look into on Sunday. Ummm, yeah, the Chicago Marathon.

I have decided to dedicate each of the 26.2 miles of this race to my friends and family. Now, normally, I would include links where applicable, but for the sake of time, I just can't do it.

1. Adam Tinkoff - He reminds us all that a journey begins with a single step
2. Casey McGraw - This amazing girl is battling her second round of cancer.
3. Steve Runner - He has he sights on a marathon under four hours.
4. Nik - #4 - 4 Feet Running and a Bad Girl of Running (Can you say San Diego?)
5. Dan - Because without Dan, Nik would only be 2 Feet Running
6. Jeremy - I think I can convince him that a marathon is in his best interest yet.
7. Chase - My daughter, my light, is seven.
8. Charlie - He's sharing his first marathon with us in Chicago.
9. Melisa - Her perseverance has paid off.
10. Marathon Chris - She's 10 years older than me - and an amazing friend and inspiration.
11. Patty - My sister is my best friend and she's just awesome.
12. Stone - My son, my buddy turned 12 today.
13. Susan - She's running the Worldwide Festival of Races Pregnant.
14. Darrell - My husband - we've been married 14 years and he's a cool guy.
15. My Dad.
16. Ann - She's planning on walking the Disney Half Marathon
17. Shirley - Fit, Fast, Friend
18. David - Striving for better every time
19. Linda - My aunt who is sharing the day with my family while I'm running the Chicago Marathon.
20. My Mom - (Rest In Peace) She would be proud of me.
21. Greg a.k.a. The Road Warrior - Virtually running coast to coast while in law school.
22.Cheryl - She has a passion for running and has run many many long runs with me.
23. All the Bad Girls of Running
24. All the Bad Boys of Running
25. Tracy - She thinks she'll never run more than a 10k, but I know her better than that.
26. Petra - Without an email so many months ago asking if I would be interested in running the Chicago Marathon, my fall marathon might have been somewhere else, all by myself instead of in one of my favorite cities with my friends.
.2 Me - I made it this far and this one is all me.

Fish Out of Water

2008-09-17T20:14:00.002-04:00

Last weekend I made a mistake. My groin strain was feeling better. I was giddy with excitement on Saturday and I ran six miles. I was still feeling pretty good after my run, but there was some discomfort.

Saturday night we went to a small car show. We walked around a little bit, but not a lot. I was feeling pretty good. Sunday I started into my planned 12 mile run. After 8.90 miles I thought it was probably a good idea to call it quits. The pain was back.

I really wish I would have held back.

The new plan is to back waaaaaaaaaaay off. So, no running until there is no pain. I really want to be running, but I really want to run the Chicago Marathon. The way to get to the starting line is to get healthy.

I feel like I am prepared for Chicago. And I am confident that as long as I am healthy on October 12th, it's going to be a great race. The past few days, knowing that I can't run right now has made me very antsy. I need to cross-train to maintain my fitness. I have been feeling like a fish out of water.

So what's a fish to do? Get in the pool. Swimming with the pull buoy is the best option for me right now. The last two days have brought some questionable swimming weather. But today, I went for a swim. I was fighting darkness. I don't like to swim at night. I swam for a glorious 20 minutes. It feels so good to be active and when I am out of commission, I feel out of sorts.

I have been taking great care to be sure I am healing. I have been icing it several times a day, and taking ibuprofen as needed. I am resting. I am also going crazy.

In 24 days, I will be here:

And it's going to be AWESOME!

Catching Up

2008-09-08T20:36:00.002-04:00

My blogging has been slipping. Work has been busy, running has been busy, twitter has been easier (follow me here). Sigh...

My training has been going well. I have missed some of my weekday runs here and there, but nothing that makes me question my ability to finish the Chicago Marathon.

I've been feeling really strong lately, like I could run forever. Until last week.

I started feeling a little strain in the groin area late last week. Just a tinge of pain, but it was no big deal. After my 10 miler on Saturday, it was a little more noticable. Yesterday, at about mile 15 it was even more a little noticable. By the time I had completed my 20 miles it was just a little more than noticable.

I'm going to take the next few days easy. With 33 days to go, I need to be extremely careful. I need to be and will be healthy at the starting line on October 12th.

Hey Ladies...

2008-08-30T21:28:00.002-04:00

Get Funky!!!

If you are one of the gentlemen who read my blog, stop reading here and watch the video. You'll like it. The ladies will like it too, but the ladies have more important issues to attend to.

So ladies, now the gentlemen are occupied watching The Beastie Boys, I would like to invite you to join the Bad Girls of Running vs. Bad Boys of Running Challenge on Runner+ .

If you are not familiar with Runner+, it is a fun site to track your runs, meet other runners, set up and participate in challenges. And the great thing about it is, you don't need to have a Nike+ system to track your mileage.

As of right now, the Bad Girls team is smaller than the Bad Boys team and we really need to show these guys who's the baddest (and when I say bad, I mean the best) of them all!

Getting it Done

2008-08-18T22:19:00.002-04:00

Things have been going okay. I have not gotten as many of my shorter weekday runs as I would like. It's just been some crazy times. That being said, I still feel like I'm on track.

Saturday, I met up with my friend Cheryl and a few people she knew. I had nine miles scheduled and Cheryl (training for San Antonio) had seven miles scheduled. We decided to meet in the middle and run eight miles.

We ran a new route that was pretty hilly and it was pretty hot. Even starting at 6:00 AM. I'm looking forward to the cooler temps, if they ever get here.

Sunday I was supposed to meet Cheryl again. We were going to run 14 miles along Lakeshore Drive into Mt. Dora. We agreed to meet at 5:30 AM.

Saturday evening Cheryl called me and said that she wouldn't be able to meet me until 7:00 AM. I was fine with that, despite knowing it was going to be HOT.

Saturday night I changed the time on the alarm on my BlackBerry, which I always use for my alarm clock. The only problem was, I didn't turn it on.

At 7:10 the phone rang. It woke me up and before I even opened my eyes I knew it was too light and I had overslept.

Cheryl had planned on running and then going to church so she was on a pretty tight schedule. I told her I would never make it on time.

I went back to sleep.

The decision was made for me. The run would get done and it would get done on the treadmill.

I got up and drank some coffee ate a bagel. I decided to take the morning slow. I got dressed, grabbed the cooler and headed up to the Kangaroo for some G2 and 20 lbs of ice.

I got started and took it a little slower than normal. The idea was to get it done. I put on my shoes with less than 30 miles on them, hoping that the newer shoes would help keep any potential hip pain at bay.

I worked through the miles one by one. After seven miles I filled up my water bottle. Again after the next six and then there were only six miles to go. Six miles is a piece of cake.

When I had completed my run (3:02:30) I made some hot tea, grabbed a magazine and got in the tub. As the tub filled with cool water, I opened the bags of ice. The tea was a big help, I could have and maybe should have stayed in the ice longer. I stayed until my daughter's begging for me to get in the pool won out.

As I got into the pool, my husband said, the water feels good, but it's a little cold. My legs were so cold, I actually thought it felt warm.

I was supposed to head to San Diego tomorrow, but because of the Tropical Storm / potential Hurricane headed straight for us, I have cancelled the trip. I was looking forward to running my familiar humidity-free routes. Soon enough, I'll be there again.

A Chance To Win

2008-08-10T09:17:00.002-04:00

The British Bulldog is having a contest on his blog. He is giving away 5 copies of the Dean Karnazes book 50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathons in 50 Days.

Check out this link to his blog to read the rules.

And really, who doesn't like to win stuff?