MOM VS MARATHON: HOW TO RUN A MARATHON AND A HOUSEHOLD WITHOUT LOSING YOUR MIND

I Moved!

2012-01-05T13:09:00.001-08:00

Please go to:

http://momvsmarathon.sanitydepartment.com

to my new blog!

That's One Shaky Boat...Pose

2012-01-03T21:40:00.000-08:00

I love trying something new, don't you? The challenge! The unknown! The feeling of conquering something! Sort of like my run yesterday.

Tonight, it was a yoga video from a set called HD Yoga. Now, I could be totally biased because the company I work for produced the set (which isn't available till next week) -- let me just get that right out there in the open. BUT if I didn't like it, I would've just kept my mouth shut, you know? Last week, I tried the basics video. I liked it. It was relaxing. It helped stretch me out. I can see it being good for an "active rest day" (since I'm streaking an all).

Boat pose (not from video)

The strength video tonight kicked my behind -- well, actually it kicked my hamstrings, hips, core, etc. It was really hard and I did the basic poses. All through the hour-long video, I was thinking how I can see how the strength moves and breathing practice could really help my running. Oh, and boat pose? I was shaking something fierce in that boat pose. And let's not even talk about these twisty crunch thing. I can't. I know I'm going to be feeling those for the next two days. (Here's my report on Dailymile.)

Anyway, I'm really loving it. I still have the core and vinyasa discs to try.

This exercise streak is really inspiring me, by the way. It's only Day 3, but it's already helping be conscious about getting in some sort of movement each day. Tomorrow, I'm looking forward to a lunch run with Mel.

Are you trying new things this year?

We're Going Streaking!

2012-01-02T16:58:00.000-08:00

We cleaned up the tree on New Year's Day. And all the Christmas decor, too. It was an all-day affair. But I did get in a Jillian Yoga Meltdown (Level 1) workout in.

And that, my friends, was the beginning of my streak. Last month, my friend Mel (Tall Mom on the Run) ran every day. Every single day. Even if it was only a mile. Inspiring!

I know I can't do that for my shin's sake. But, when Mr. T announced he wanted to walk 30 minutes every day, I decided I, too, would exercise every day. We'd go streaking together!

Like I said, I can't run every day. So I just have to do some sort of exercise: bike, walk, yoga, Shred...whatever I can fit in. I know I need to "rest." That's where gentle yoga or an slow and easy walk comes in.

Today, I started a treadmill workout, but it felt...crappy. So I got ready for an outdoor run. The bike shorts and t-shirt I was already wearing were fine for outside since it was 50 today. But it was already getting dark at 3! So I put on my new glowing Nathan vest and a pair of gloves.

Sidebar:

Ugh. I suck at self-portraits!

On Saturday, New Year's Eve, I went for an 8-miler with Mel on the Orting Trail. I forgot my gloves and I regretted that...till I got the feeling back in my fingers around Mile 3. More on that run HERE. Tease: The first half was rough. Let's just say, I'm feeling...heavy.

32 degrees and no gloves. What a dummy!

BTW, I went to Lululemon and bought another skirt last week. I didn't understand why I needed it in a size larger than my black Lulu skirt (pictured above). Well, when I put on my black skirt on Saturday morning, I knew why (ahem mimosas, eggnog, cake, gumdrops, Reese's Christmas trees).

End sidebar.

Anyway, today I didn't know where or how far I would run. I ended up going a new way and exploring a little, even discovering a paved trail, a school, a new back road and a cool rolling straightaway. With my brief treadmill what-I-decided-would-be-a-warm-up of 1.4 miles and my outdoor what-turned-into 5 miles, I'd say I was pretty "productive" today.

Sometimes I just need to exercise to feel like I "accomplished" something. Do you ever feel like that? Yesterday, we cleaned up so much stuff. Today, I was just feeling to unproductive. Not anymore!

So, what do you think about the streaking idea? It's sort of a big goal: exercise every day. I suppose there should be a minimum time. Let's say at least 30 minutes. Anyone else interested in doing this?

2011 has been an Epic Year in Running

2011-12-31T07:00:00.000-08:00

The 2011 Running Year will go down as the one where I finally got my marathon dream, ran the relay of a lifetime and found some speed. But other things happened, too...

JANUARY

Jan. 14: We got a treadmill. It's changed my running life. For realz.

Jan. 28: I started a running group. It's grown to almost 40 members with women from Snohomish, King and Pierce counties. I thought we'd meet regularly, but that's nearly impossible with so many moms in the group. Instead, a Facebook group keeps us connected and we post upcoming runs there. It works great since we are so spread out.

FEBRUARY

Feb. 9: I made a Mom vs. Marathon Facebook page. It's been so fun to interact with people in "real" time!

MARCH

March 3: I tried pool running.

March 18: I started to realize I could get faster. Seriously. I wasn't sure I would ever be able to get out of the 10-minute mile range. Not that there's anything wrong with that pace; I just had my high school cross-country self in my brain reminding me what I used to run.

March 21: Marathon training got serious. Zoë (Run, Zoë, Run) and I began our long runs in earnest with a 16-miler. For some reason, 16 miles seems like the turning point to me.

March 28: I got out my bike. And I got a trailer for T Junior. Sure, I'm not particularly proud of how I behaved on this particular ride, but I was proud of myself for getting out there and doing something I'm really uncomfortable doing.

APRIL

April 8: I realized the pool hates me. I did go back, though.

April 10: I ran 18.2 "stoopid" miles with Zoë. And I made her kiss a slug.

MAY

May 7: I missed my 20-miler.

May 13: I missed my 20-miler again.

May 16: I became someone who goes to physical therapy. My left shin was sore...a lot. So I freaked and went to PT.

May 29: I ran 20 miles...alone. And out-of-town, too.

JUNE (Marathon Month!)

June 9: I fell and almost lost the dog. About two weeks till the marathon. I still have visions of this when I run with Bennie.

June 14: I found out Nuun was sending a team of bloggers to Hood to Coast. I wasn't going to apply. It sounded scary, but my friend Mel (Tall Mom on the Run) sounded so excited about it. So I applied.

June 20: I went on a running tour. Chelsea (Will Run for Food) showed me her 'hood. Then she drove me around the marathon course.

June 22: I made the Nuun Hood to Coast team. But I couldn't think about it yet.

June 24: I carbo-loaded and tried not to pee my pants. I was so, so nervous in the days leading up to the full. I could barely hold a conversation.

June 25: EPIC RUNNING DAY #1 - I completed my first marathon with Zoë right next to me.

JULY

July 11: I began training for a September sub-2 half marathon. I had serious doubts.

July 17: I ran with Chelsea during her first half marathon. I was alone during my first half in 2009. I felt lonely when I finished it. No way, was Chelsea going to be lonely.

July 18: This day marked my second year of being a dedicated runner.

AUGUST

Aug. 26-28: EPIC RUNNING DAYS #2-4 - I survived the Hood to Coast Relay. And I want to go again!

SEPTEMBER

Sept. 18: EPIC RUNNING DAY #5 - Sub-2 Half PR! And I beat it by more than I thought I could.

OCTOBER

Oct. 2: EPIC RUNNING DAY #6 - 10K PR! Barely.

Oct. 25: I began blogging at 2Toms. So appreciative of the awesome people there!

Oct. 26: Lucy has six puppies.

NOVEMBER

Nov. 30: This post pretty much describes November.

DECEMBER

Dec. 2: I found a way to blog and workout at the same time.

Dec. 17: A 5K PR! And in style with my buddies!

I doubt 2012 will be able to top 2011, but I'm excited for some new adventures next year. I think/hope we will be getting an RV. For me, the RV equals freedom. Mr. T even said we'll be able to use it for vacations, dog shows and "your running stuff." So, hey, maybe there'll be some destination races next year!

What are your 2012 plans? What was your favorite running moment of 2011?

Where I've Been and What is This...Thing?

2011-12-30T17:27:00.000-08:00

Look at me taking a break from blogging and not even stressing about it! I'm so proud of myself. But now I'm not sure where I left off. Did everyone have a good Christmas? Can you believe it's almost 2012? Workouts have been tough to squeeze in during the holidays, but I'm hanging in there!

Here's what's happened in the last week:

DEC. 24:
-Ran 6 miles to pre-burn calories in preparation for breakfast casserole. Saw this little gem below during the run. On my second lap, a man pulled up to it. I presume he took it away since it was gone when I drove by later.

WHAT IS THIS THING?
Anyone want to guess what this is?

-The fifth puppy was picked up, leaving us with just little Ray. His owners will return from Florida and pick him up on Jan. 12. Till then, we are still in puppy-land.

-Every Christmas Eve we drive around and look at lights with cookies and hot cocoa. Best T Junior quote from the night: "Every time I see Christmas lights, I'll drink."

DEC. 25:
-I love stockings and Santa found these awesome stick-on mustaches for T Junior's.

T Junior looks dignified. I look like one of those '60s cartoon
characters that swishes their 'stache all the time.

-RunningSkirt, Lulu gift card, Nathan night vest, glow-in-the-dark leash for Bennie, Jillian Michaels Yoga Meltdown video, a new pair of Saucony Hurricanes. I'm so runner-spoiled!

DEC. 26:
-Took 80-pound ADD boxer Bennie for a 2-mile night run with our new glowing gear. He did great! Only one incident: When we got chased by a miniature Yorkie in a Christmas sweater named Cricket.

DEC. 27:
-Yoga Meltdown! I love it. I was very careful to do all the movements slowly, especially since I have that herniated disc to deal with. It didn't bother me at all.

DEC. 28:
-I noticed my back wasn't aching for the first time in weeks. It's been really bugging me lately. I'm pretty sure Yoga Meltdown helped me stretch it out.

-Told myself, I'd run after work, but was feeling down and tired. Promised myself I'd do more the next day instead.

DEC. 29:
-I realized my pants were getting supertight. Decided to "forget" to weigh myself.

-Wanted to run a little longer, so I took Bennie on a 2-mile "warm-up." Once again, he did really well. We even sprinted on the last little stretch toward home, getting our pace down to a 6-minute mile! Then I went back out for a 5k by myself.

DEC. 30 (today):
-Got up to take the puppy out, then did an hour-long yoga video while said puppy howled and Lucy, one of our boxers, circled me on the floor. T Junior came downstairs during the last 15 minutes. I don't think that's how the video was meant to be done, but I still liked it.

-Later, after a Costco slice of pizza, I felt guilty and did a walk/run on the treadmill while watching Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Walked during the show; ran during the commercials.

Well, I think that's about it. Did you get any new running gear? What are your New Year's plans?

What's the Worst Thing You Eat During the Holidays?

2011-12-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

We have been making Breakfast Casserole on Christmas morning in my family for as long as I can remember. It's cheesey, bacony, bready, eggy goodness. It is my ultimate comfort food. It is also so, so bad for you, as you can imagine.

The ingredients are 1 pound of bacon, a pound of cheddar, a loaf of sliced French bread, milk, and a dozen eggs (oh, and butter for greasing the casserole dish ). Basically, you diced the bread and bacon (about 1x1), and you shred the cheese. Beat the eggs. Dump the bread into the greased 8x10 casserole dish. Pour the eggs over the bread. Cover the bread with the bacon, then spread the cheese on top. Pour milk into the casserole dish until it comes up to be level with the top of the bread (a clear casserole dish helps). Bake covered with foil at 350 for about 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake till bubbly -- about 15 minutes.

It is so good. I can't wait. Better go running Christmas morning.

What's the worst thing you eat during the holidays?

I Don't Know What to Say

2011-12-22T12:24:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have one of those days where you feel like you want to say something, but you have no idea what it is? And if only you could find the words because you are pretty sure it's really important for others hear it?

That's me today, so I'm going to do a little warm-up exercise and see what happens. Just gonna pick a subject and go with it for three minutes -- it's all about how much I can write and not really about what I'm writing. This should be...terrible.

Oh geez, I can't even pick a subject. I keep looking at things on my desk -- pens, a couple of quarters, a box of jumpo paper clips, a cough drop, some foaming hand sanitizer, a little boxer dog statue, a bottle of Newman's Own Light Italian. Okay, let's pick...

Post-Its

Do you use Post-its? I don't have real Post-Its but some knock-off ones on my desk. I like them because they have a pink border and a little picture of a cupcake in the bottom right-hand corner. I don't like them because they don't have Post-it-quality sticky stuff on them. They never stick to anything. They just sort of curl up after you peel the top one off the stack. This always makes me consider going in search of real Post-its, but I never do. Instead, I just "stick" the cupcake post-it to whatever and hope for the best. Whenever I say, "hope for the best," it reminds me of my friend Kallie. She always says that about her kids stuffed animals. "I just throw them in the washer and hope for the best." Makes me giggle whenever I hear her saying that in my head. I was just really getting going on this exercise -- I'm about a minute into it now -- and a computer restart button just popped up. Are you kidding me? Seriously. I'm in the middle of something here. So rude how your computer can just sort of interrupt you whenever it feels like. Sort of like a 3-year-old. Or my 3-year-old anyway. How many times do I have to say, "Wait your turn, please, I am talking to Daddy"? By the way, that's a trick question. Because it doesn't matter that I say it, he just keeps talking. Anyway, back to Post-its. I also have a stack of them that don't have sticky stuff on them. I guess those maybe aren't actually Post-its, right? Not even knock-off Post-its. What would you call those? When they are stacked up there's a picture of the New York skyline on them. My friend and former co-worker got it for me when she went to New York back when we worked in the newsroom. I just realized I never noticed if the Twin Towers were on there...

Times up.That was fun. I actually feel better.You should try this. Pick a topic and just start free writing for three minutes -- see where your brain takes you. The rules: No thinking about your topic before you start writing. If you do, pick a new topic.

The idea is to not let your brain think too much.Well, that's certainly easy for me today.

I'm Not the Brightest Bulb on the Strand

2011-12-21T12:21:00.000-08:00

Zoë, Goob, T Junior and me in my living room. Zoë said sparkly skirts are
reflective, therefore we wore them for safety purposes. Mr. T made fun of us.

It was a "Christmas lightbulb moment," except one section burnt out.

Do you ever have one of those ideas that seems really good and then after you execute, you think, "Well, that was dumb"? I have them all of the time. It's like a sickness.

I knew I couldn't go to Wednesday's Tour De Lights in Bonney Lake, so I decided to do my own Tour De Lights of My 'Hood Tuesday night. Since Zoë doesn't live that far away, I asked her if she wanted to come along. She did!

I haven't run with the jogging stroller in a long time, and it showed. It didn't help that I filled the tires up a little too much with my husband's air compressor, which I very much enjoy using. I was all over the place. And T Junior was asking me a million questions -- none of which I could understand. I also didn't think about sidewalk width and whether or not it could contain two side-by-side jogging strollers. Street-running in my neighborhood is usually fine, but there were a ton of cars last night. It was not an easy 2.2 miles by any means even though I did it in the same time I ran 3.1 miles on Saturday.

But it was nice to see my friend and all of the lights, and I loved the leg lamp window cling, too!

Must find one for my house.

Afterward, T Junior wanted to run. We said goodbye to our friends, put the jogger away and went for another short run. You think running with a 3-year-old in the daytime is nerve-wracking, try a night run with one. Holy crap.

I told him he to make sure he looked at the ground, so he looked down...and never looked up until I realized what he was doing as he's veering off the sidewalk. Then I told him that you have to look down and up. So then he's running and nodding.

Seriously, kid. Sometimes you are so smart, but sometimes you are so dumb.

Then again, I am the one who agreed to go night-running with a 3-year-old.

Santa Runs Tacoma 5k Recap

2011-12-19T16:57:00.000-08:00

Team Will Run for Ice Cream
L-R: Kadie's daughter, Kadie, Tiffany, Karla, Kim, Mel, Zoe, me and Alma!
(Not pictured: Jamie and Sybil)

Do you know how hard it was for me not to hit the bottle of Evan Williams eggnog the night before my race?

So hard. We've got so much going on with puppies and a cranky kiddo and work and more work and shopping, etc. I just want to sit down with an adult beverage of the holiday season, okay? I can't believe how much I've fallen behind even though I got started totally early this year.

Needless to say, the Santa Runs Tacoma 5k has not been on the top of my priority list. Still, I wanted to do well, so I resisted the 'nog and drank water instead.

The morning of the race, I went downstairs to clean up puppy poop. This is the new morning routine around here. Then, I came back upstairs to get dressed. On the way up, I saw out the window that my car was frozen over. Sweet. I factored in 10 minutes of car-heating and ice-scraping.

As I got dressed, I shivered, thinking about outside. But once in my car, it was not too bad (I also had a jacket on). I drove to Zoe's to pick her and Karla up, and we were on our way. It was clear with sunbreaks as we drove the 30 minutes to Tacoma, but once we got there, we couldn't see a thing because the city was hidden in a thick, misty fog.

We got a little lost (yes, I've been to this start line four times now and still got lost), but found the parking area ahead of schedule and managed to find a very good parking spot. I like this race because it is big enough, but small enough. Know what I mean?

We picked up packets, froze, got ready (Zoe put bells on her shoes), found our friends, froze, took pictures and even sang "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" for a video On the Run Events put together for the troops in Afghanistan. Troops there will run a "satellite" Santa Runs 5k on Christmas. (More about the video at the end of this post.)

Tiffany's husband took many of our photos before and during the race. (Thank you!) Mostly, with us, we always just stand around being silly. It's a great release. As we were doing just that, a woman came up to our group and asked, "Are you guys some kind of running club or are you just supercute?"

"We're just supercute," I told her. She laughed and said she thought Kim was our coach because we all had white shirts on and Kim was in black. Kim has been anti-white shirt since You Go Girl when it rained. Oops.

I think we looked great in our candy cane theme. We entered the costume contest, but our competition was pretty steep. One thing being in the contest did for us: it got us close to the start line. No maneuvering for us. There were about 1,700 runners in the 5 and 10k combined.

Photo taken by the lovely Karla.

As we waited for the race start, I ran in place. I was so cold, as you can see below where I photobombed Zoe by wiping my nose at just the right time. Socks-turned-arm-warmers-turned-Kleenex.

Mel tried to warm Zoe up in her XXL throw-away.

I ran in place to try to warm up.

Sidebar:

I don't usually get running my fastest till about Mile 3. It really takes me that long to hit my stride, so if I really want to do well, I feel like I need to run a couple slow miles before my race. Is this nuts?

End sidebar.

Warming up by running in place helped a little, but not much. Finally, we were counting down and then we were off. My strategy that I came up with a couple days prior to the race was to try to hang with Mel and Kim. They were going for a sub-23. I knew I probably could not get a sub-23, but I thought if I was having a really good day, maybe a sub-24. But, realistically, I knew a sub-25 was more like it. And, really, I just wanted to beat my 5k PR, which I got at this race in 2010: 27:27.

I could not hang with Kim and Mel. I was trying, but by about a half mile in, I knew I could not. I slowed a little, but still pushed myself. I knew Zoe was behind me and I wanted to keep it that way.

Sidebar:

We all have a little friendly competition going on. We push ourselves and we push each other, and we cheer for each other, too. We want our buddies to do well, but we also want to beat them. Or, maybe this is just me.

End sidebar.

Anyway, I was dying. And my feet were blocks of ice. It was a weird feeling when they hit the ground -- I could feel them, but couldn't. And my pinky toes tingled on each step. The most difficult thing was catching my breath. I felt winded immediately and it didn't go away.

Mile 1: 7:38. It actually felt like it went by pretty quick. At 1.5, I was like I'm basically half done. Thank goodness.

Mile 2: 7:51. Just after I hit Mile 2, I came up on a youngish girl -- a freshman in high school maybe. She said, "Will you run with me? I haven't run in a while and I just don't want to walk." I pulled my music out of my ear and nodded. (I was sort of dying still, so I couldn't really talk.) Inside, I was conflicted. I was trying for a PR, but I also wanted to help her out. We ran for a minute and then I heard it (probably since I had my music out).

Bells.

I knew she was closing in. That darn Zoe. Next thing I knew, she was next to me being encouraging. I told the young girl that I was trying to keep up with her (Zoe) as Zoe zoomed ahead. Darn it! I looked at my watch -- about an 8-minute pace. I stayed with the young girl. "Just under a mile left," I said through huffs and puffs.

We started up a slight hill that turns into a big hill that crests at about a quarter-mile from the finish line. As soon as we started up that little incline, I felt myself slipping back and the young girl surged on ahead.

DARN IT!

Mile 3: 8:24 (proof I started too fast)

I just focused on the downhill finish. As I trudged up the hill, my breathing STILL erratic, Jamie passed me. Jamie had been my pacer, sort of, during my 1:52 half on this course in September (You Go Girl). I'd kept her in my view the entire race. I wasn't close to her, but close enough to see her at that race.

Me and Jamie after the race.

Finally, on Saturday, I was at the top and heading down toward the finish line. I didn't have much of a kick. I just tried to keep going, tried to keep my turn-over as fast as I could. I ran through the chute smiling because I thought there may be a photographer and I was sooo happy to be done.

I was right! Tiffany's husband strikes again. Thanks for the photo!

I got close to the finish and saw Zoe waiting by the tag removal people. She hugged me or high-fived me when I got there -- I don't remember because I was pretty woozy. I never did "catch" my breath. I did forget to stop my watch for about 25 seconds, which is annoying, but it also means that I pushed myself really hard. But I didn't know how I'd done.

After we got our Santa Runs mugs (so excited -- I love the mug from last year, too!), we went to cheer for other runners. It was really exciting to see Karla finish her first 5k. She's run marathons, but never a 5k!

Afterward, we went to check our times.

I got a 24:42, which is a 7:58 pace. Not bad, I thought. A PR! And I got 6th in my age group (30-34).
AG: 6/103
Gender: 31/689
Overall: 119/1,041

Actually, Team Will Run for Ice Cream represented well in the 30-34 top 10 placings: Mel was 3rd, Jamie was 5th, I was 6th and Tiffany was 8th. We represented in the other age groups, too. Zoe got 6th in her AG, Carla (not on our team, but a running buddy), got 6th in her AG. Kim got 1st in her AG, and Alma and her aunt both got 3rd in their age groups!

I can't wait to run this race again in 2012! We already have our costumes planned.

I'm not sure what we're doing here: Kim, me, Mel and Karla.

Highlights of this year's race:
-Seeing all the costumes.
-Being goofy with my friends.
-Meeting new Women Runner of King County member Sybil (who ran her first 10k!)
-Placing 6th in my AG -- that's the highest I've ever placed as an adult!
-Singing for the troops -- I got teary-eyed afterward!

Speaking of, On the Run Events made a video of the race with greetings to the troops. You can see it HERE or below.

It's sort of long, so here are the times you can see people you might know:
-At the beginning: Team Will Run for Ice Cream hanging out and taking photos behind the "Rockette Reindeer" (I just made up that name)
-0:57 and about 2:43 - you can see a few red sparkly skirts starting the race
-4:25 Mel at the turn-around
-5:41 Karla finishing her first 5k!
-9:56ish Us singing "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" and thanking the troops (watch with the volume off -- just kidding!)

Alma, Kadie and Al, Tiffany, me, Karla, Zoe, Mel and Kim singing.

Bloggers mentioned in this post and their blogs:

Zoe - Run, Zoe, Run
Karla - Running on Eagles Wings
Mel - Tall Mom on the Run
Alma - The Average Woman's Running Blog
Kim - (Just) Trying is for Little Girls
Tiffany - Musings of a Runner Girl
Kadie - There She Runs
Carla - Foil-Wrapped Runner
Sybil - Musings of a Milk Maker
Jamie - Nurse Runner

We thought we saw Santa!

My Santa Runs 5k Outfit

2011-12-14T20:51:00.000-08:00

Who likes candy canes? Who likes dressing up as candy canes?

Team Will Run for Ice Cream does apparently since we will all be wearing a candy cane theme outfit to Santa Runs Tacoma on Saturday. We won't be matching exactly, we're not that coordinated. I like that, though. Allows us to put our own personal spin on our outfits.

Here's mine:

Nike shirt and skirt
Team Sparkle skirt
Homemade "arm warmers" from Target
Socks from somewhere online last year
Headband from Old Navy

My favorite part is the headband. It makes me feel like Cindy Lou Who. I may wear a red fleece scarf, too, since it'll be in the low '30s. Are you racing this weekend? Dressing up?

It's Race Week! Now What?

2011-12-12T19:56:00.000-08:00

PR-attempt in 5, 4, 3...

Saturday, I will attempt another 5k PR at Santa Runs Tacoma. I PR'd there last year in some pretty sweet elf ears. The theme for Team Will Run for Ice Cream this year is "candy cane" -- I'll share my outfit later in the week.

Here's what I will be doing to make sure I'm ready to tackle the race:

Be mindful of how much water I'm drinking. Often, I have not been drinking enough because I'm cold.
Run twice only -- at a comfortable pace, so I don't wear out my legs.
Get my outfit together mid-week so I'm not stressing about it at the last minute.
Get to bed at a decent time Wednesday-Friday (Monday-Tuesday, I can't make any promises).
Watch my calorie intake. I lost about three pounds over the last couple of weeks. I'd like to keep it off.

What other ways do you prepare for a race during the week?

5 Things You Should Learn, Win, Earn or Cuddle With

2011-12-09T11:36:00.000-08:00

EverydayHealth's cool marathon slideshow.

1. Did you know only 15 people ran Boston in its first year? Check out this fun slideshow about marathons at EverydayHealth! Also, I didn't know that Oprah BEAT ME!

2. After that, you'll want to read my post at the 2Toms blog today. I hope you are standing up for this.

3. Then, tell OnlineShoes.com what your favorite gift to give is and maybe you'll win a pair of Sorels! Or head to Racing With Babes and enter to win a pair of Ahnu Boots!

4. You gotta exercise first to earn your entry to win a Sparkly Soul headband from Run with Jess's Fit Christmas, but you were going to do that anyway, right?

Ray

5. Last one! We put 6-week pictures up of Bennie and Lucy's puppies on our website. Boxer puppies are the cutest! I could do without all the poop, though. They are a disaster. Just keep that in mind while viewing them on the puppy cam.

How Much Running Stuff Does One Girl Need?

2011-12-08T12:07:00.000-08:00

I cleaned out my purse the other day. Here were the contents:

Normal stuff:
1 wallet
5 random receipts
2 Costco coupon booklets
1 bundle of notecards
1 bottle of hand sanitizer
5 tubes of lip gloss
1 page of Muppets stickers
1 Macy's coupon
1 Eddie Bauer coupon
1 Sports Authority coupon
1 People StyleWatch magazine bill
1 pair oversized black sunglasses
Phone

Runner stuff:
5 ponytail bands
1 RunningSkirts headband
1 UnderArmour fleece hat
1 pair of earbuds
2 (two?!) pairs of gloves
1 Garmin watch
1 pair of running sunglasses
1 tube of Nuun
2 tubes of deodorant

WHAT WENT BACK IN?
Normal stuff:
1 wallet
1 Costco coupon booklet
1 bottle of hand sanitizer
5 tubes of lip gloss
1 pair oversized black sunglasses
Phone
Kindle

Running stuff:
5 ponytail bands
1 RunningSkirts headband
1 UnderArmour fleece hat
1 pair of earbuds
1 pair of gloves
1 Garmin watch
1 pair of running sunglasses
1 tube of Nuun
1 tube of deodorant

You never know when a run could happen!

Turned out I needed gloves on my lunch-hour run Wednesday with Zoë (Run, Zoë, Run) and Mel (Tall Mom on the Run), so it was a good thing I had the extra gloves!

Zoë, me and Mel. Bondibands unite!

The much-needed gloves. Brrrr!

Little Goob's sweet ride.

Blurry because we went back in time to the '80s to go along with my
high-pony look for the run. Like, totally, gag me with a spoon, alright?
Not sure what's happening with my hand. We couldn't think of any good '80s poses.

My New Coach Made Me Run Cul-de-sacs!

2011-12-05T16:07:00.000-08:00

I was supposed to run with Mel (Tall Mom on the Run) and Zoe (Run, Zoe, Run) on Sunday morning, but cleaning and feeding puppies in the morning's is a JOB and I didn't want to leave Mr. T with all of that, plus our three adult dogs, plus our three-year-old on a weekend morning. It's just a lot to handle for one person. So, I had to cancel.

No worries, I still planned to get a nice long run in -- 6 miles or so. I have a 5k in two weeks, so next weekend, I plan to reduce my long run just to give my legs some extra rest.

But I am so tired of running in my neighborhood. And, I am NOT a fan of cul-de-sacs.

So, late in the afternoon, I set out toward neighboring Ravensdale. I've run this route one other time back around Halloween. This time, I stopped to take a picture of the spectators.

All the alpaca's stop and stare when you run by.

The lone alpaca. Must be a dude.

I had a hard time getting my mind off my pace at first. My legs wanted to fly, but my lungs couldn't keep up. I was thinking too much. Once I saw my alpaca friends at about two miles in, I sort of forgot about paying attention to what I was doing and I let my mind wander. This was even good for my pace. I hadn't set out to go fast, but running by feel, I came up with a pretty nice 6-miler:

Mile 1: 9:11
Mile 2: 9:00
Mile 3: 9:03
Mile 4: 8:26
Mile 5: 8:33
Mile 6: 8:31

The last three miles were faster as they were slightly downhill, I wasn't thinking too much except that I felt bad leaving Mr. T home alone with all the "kids." Speaking of kids...

Before I left for my run, I had to convince T Junior to let me go alone. He wanted to run with me. I finally convinced him to let me go by myself after promising I would go for another run with him when I got home. I thought he'd forget.

Nope.

The second I stepped in the door: "Can I run wiff you now, Mom?"

"But, don't you want to do gingerbread houses?" I asked.

He did not. He wanted to run. So, we put on his sweat pants and NIKEs and set out on the trail. He told me he wanted to run for "five days." I assumed he meant miles. He asked me how far I ran before. I told him six. He told me we would run for "six miles, but first five and before that, four."

Okay.

I figured we'd be gone for 10 minutes.

We were gone for nearly 30. He ran almost the entire time. I finally convinced him to walk after about 1.3 miles. We were home at about 1.5 miles. When we'd turned into our neighborhood (after I bribed him with candy/gingerbread house decorating) at about a mile, he then made me run all the cul-de-sacs!

He was relentless! "C'mon, Mom. Run!"

In one cul-de-sac, a nice family was out putting up Christmas lights. "WE'RE GOING FOR A RUN!" T Junior shouted at them while jogging sideways -- like a pro.

The kid's hands were ice and snot was running down over his top lip and he STILL wanted to keep running. It was getting dark! Finally, back home (where he told me he was sad we didn't run 10 miles), we warmed up with hot cocoa covered in whipped cream and sprinkles. And, later, we decorated gingerbread houses. I think we he ate more candy than he put on it.

But he earned it, I guess.

So, in the end, I got 7.5 miles on the day. I wonder what Coach T Junior's going to make me do next week.

***

Note: I need to clear up two things:

1. I can't run on the treadmill and type. I am walking on the treadmill and typing.
2. I do not need to qualify for CIM unless I enter after Oct. 1.

Out of Jealousy, A New Goal: California International Marathon

2011-12-03T12:04:00.000-08:00

My hero! "A" dumping water on me during my first HOT leg of the

Hood to Coast Relay in August.

On Sunday, Hood To Coast Relay vanmate A from Diary of an Average Runner will be running the California International Marathon (CIM). The start for the race is 5 miles from where I grew up, and where my dad still lives.

I am beyond jealous.

Funny thing is, I don't ever remember even hearing about this race when I was growing up. Sure, it didn't start till 1983, but I didn't leave for college until '95. How strange that I didn't even realize there were thousands of people running, basically, just down the street. And I was a runner! What the heck?

I want to run this marathon. I'd love to do it next year, but if you remember, I promised to take it easy for a bit. In 2013, T Junior will go to Kindergarten. I will start training then. Of course, I have to qualify first. So I won't be able to race CIM till 2014. Here's the plan:

August 2013: T Junior to Kindergarten
September 2013: I turn 36; start training for a spring marathon (I will need to run a sub-3:50 to qualify for CIM -- that's taking about an hour off my current time, but I think it's doable) *Update: I am a moron - I misread the site; you only have to qualify if you enter late! So it's possible I can alter this and actually run it in 2013!!!!!
Spring 2014: Run sub-3:50 at some marathon around Seattle
Winter 2014: Run CIM!

It's a completely perfect plan! Considering it takes months and months to train for a marathon, that's not actually that far away. Right?

Good luck tomorrow, A! I know you are nervous, but I have tons of confidence in you! Wish I was "home" to spectate, but I'll be cheering for you via the Internet!

PS: I think there was some confusion on my treadmill-while-blogging post yesterday. I was (and am right now) walking while typing. There is no way I could run and blog, but that's awesome that you guys think I'm that coordinated. Thanks!

Guess What I'm Doing RIGHT NOW?!

2011-12-02T13:42:00.000-08:00

If you said blogging while on the treadmill...then you were correct!

I got this little contraption for Mr. T's birthday, but I'm...um...borrowing it. New rule: If I'm blogging, I must be on the treadmill.

Incidentally, I'm also Christmas shopping while on here.

Yesterday, I went on a real outdoor run with Mel (Tall Mom on the Run) during our lunch hour. It was so fun and 4.25 FLEW by with her. I'm so spoiled with running buddies.

In fact, I did my first ever Turkey Trot last week with Zoë (Run, Zoë, Run) and Karla (Running on Eagles Wings). THEN, the very next day, I met Mel and Karla for another run!

Me, Karla and Zoë after 5.1 miles on Turkey Day!

Me, Karla and Mel on our Black Friday 5-Miler
(I like the sound of that -- maybe a real "race" next year?)

THEN, the next day Karla came over to take my family's Christmas card picture! I love this one of T Junior. It cracks me up.

Karla and me in front of our tree.

See? Spoiled!

And, I hit 500 Facebook friends on my Mom vs. Marathon page. If you're not a friend on there already, go click "like" HERE, then comment on my status update about reaching 500 for a chance to win some Nuun!

Okay, I should've put on deoderant for this post. Better take care of that and then get back to Christmas shopping.

PS: Good luck to everyone racing this weekend, especially the Vegas Rock N Rollers and my HTC buddy at CIM (PARTY ROCK IT, GIRL)!

Giveaways and Deals on RunningSkirts, OnlineShoes.com, Moving Comfort and More, Oh My!

2011-12-01T20:17:00.000-08:00

It must be the holidays....

RUNNINGSKIRTS
You guys know how I feel about RunningSkirts. This one isn't a giveaway, but they are having some awesome deals right now through Active.com's Schwaggle service. Up to 40% off on some skirts, tops, socks, etc.! Go HERE.

ONLINESHOES.COM
OnlineShoes.com is celebrating the holidays with 12 Days of Giving! Their blog will be having great daily giveaways from your favorite brands, such as Dr. Martens, The North Face, Soleus, Rockport, Tecnica, Sanita, SOREL, Giesswein, Jessica Simpson, Sperry Top-Sider, Columbia, Tsubo and Sherpani. Go HERE.

MOVING COMFORT
My Moving Comfort bra is my favorite! Enter to win with your "wishlist" on their site HERE.

GOLITE
Sign up on GoLite's e-mail list to automatically be entered to win a weekly prize HERE.

TEAM SPARKLE
I've got my red sequined skirt ready for Santa Runs Tacoma on Dec. 17! Get a group discount (buy 5, get 1 free, or buy 10, get 2 free) on Team Sparkle's sparkly running skirts! Go HERE for more info and other special group deals.

What's the best giveaway you've won recently? Or did you find a great deal on workout-wear that we should know about? Leave it in the comments so we can check it out, too!

I'm Just So...Tired

2011-11-30T22:19:00.000-08:00

This evening, I wrote a poem about what my life sounded like as I tried to feed and clean up after puppies, get the humans' dinner made and keep some kind of order in my house over here at my other blog. Tonight, I so could've used a run. If only I wasn't so tired.

That's really all I have to say about it. I should really be sleeping right now.

Actually, before I go, I will say: I'm thankful that I only have to go in to work three days a week. I'm thankful I have a job and Mr. T has a job, and we can afford to send T Junior to a great place while we are gone. And I'm thankful that my stresses, in life's big picture, are minor. I'm thankful that I recognize that. I'm thankful that my husband just let me vent tonight without trying to solve anything. And I'm thankful for friends who do the same.

Really, there is so much to be thankful for. I'd write them all down if I wasn't just so...tired.

What "The Muppets" Movie Can Teach Us About Running

2011-11-28T14:13:00.000-08:00

From L-R: Kermit, the co-writer of The Muppets Jason Segel, and Miss Piggy.
Source

Have you seen The Muppets yet?

The Muppets was an important part of my childhood. The Muppet Show and Sesame Street were basically the only TV shows I watched, and even though The Muppet Show has been off the air for many years, I continue to love it. I have it on DVD now. I also have several Kermits, and other Muppet merchandise people have given me over the years. I even have Kermit pajamas! Favorite Christmas CD? John Denver and The Muppets: A Christmas Together. I saw The Muppets Christmas Carol in the theater when I was a teen.

I think what draws me to the Muppets is that they seem so real. They could be living, breathing beings. And I admire their optimism, especially Kermit's. (Although, I loved it when he just lost it in The Muppets Take Manhattan -- again so real. He must feel so much pressure as the "leader" of his group of friends. Right?)

The New Film
This weekend, me and Mr. T (who also adores the Muppets) took T Junior to see The Muppets, the new movie starring (and co-written by!) Jason Segel of How I Met Your Mother and several Judd Apatow films. T Junior, being raised by two Muppets fans, knows who many of the characters are and has seen the shows, the films, etc.

Sidebar: The whole time I was watching Jason Segel in The Muppets, I just kept thinking how incredibly cool it would be to write a film about your childhood entertainment heroes and then be in the movie with them. There's a great little story about it here.

End sidebar.

The Muppets is about "the old gang" getting back together to do a show in order to save the old theater from an evil oil tycoon. But hat's off to writers Segel and Nick Stoller (Get Him to the Greek, Fun with Dick and Jane) because there could be any number of things the film is about: dreams, friendship, relationships, good vs. evil, becoming a man (or a Muppet!), choices, etc. Of course, leave it to me to find a connection with running.

The Running Connection
Jim Henson created the Muppets in the 1960's, but The Muppet Show didn't begin till the mid-'70s. And their popularity really got going in the '80s. After Jim Henson died suddenly in 1990, the Muppets sort of fizzled out. The Muppets Christmas Carol in 1992 wasn't the last film they did, but the next couple after that were not the same and didn't do very well with audiences.

Sidebar: And Frank Oz, who does the voice of Miss Piggy among others, wasn't thrilled with The Muppets script and didn't participate in the film, which had me worried. He didn't think it stayed true to character. After seeing the movie, I can sort of see his point, but I still think the film was very well done. I really enjoyed the story and "the magic" and the humor. And it was way better than Muppets Treasure Island, so...

End sidebar.

I found myself laughing a lot, smiling the whole time and even crying during several parts of the film, in fact. (The Rainbow Connection gets me every time!)

But here's what I really got from The Muppets movie: The Muppets are never going to be like they once were. Yes, I can still remember "Pigs in Space" like it was yesterday, but times change. People leave. New people come. That doesn't make them any less special to all the 30-somethings who grew up with them. And, now, a whole new generation of children will learn to love these unique entertainers. They are still here: the Muppets. Still kickin' it.

The same goes for running. We change. We might not be able to run sub-7's anymore. Our bodies change. Our circumstances change. Maybe we can only get out there three times a week. Running is still special to us, though. It doesn't matter how far or how fast we can go, just that we are still kickin' it.

Keep On Dreaming
Here's the other thing, and this is really what the Muppets are all about: Dream big and don't give up going after what you really want. That's a common theme in running, yes? In the article I linked to earlier in this post, Jason Segel said:

"They (the Muppets) remind us of our best versions of ourselves. The world kind of beats something out of you that anything is possible, this sort of wide-eyed wonder, and you come to the reality of what the world is like. But the Muppets have never given in to that. They believe they can accomplish anything and they just go forward with their eyes open wide and a smile on their face."

In Honor of Apple Cup

2011-11-26T08:41:00.000-08:00

Me and Chelsea at 2010's You Go Girl race.

GO COUGS!

Thanksgiving Brought to You by Costco

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

Note: I posted the story below last night on my mommy blog, but thought I'd share here, too. Hope everyone's having a happy Thanksgiving!

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Guess what I will not be doing this year. I will not be baking a turkey for hours. I won't be peeling apples for pie. I won't be baking. I won't be stirring. I won't be mixing.

Since me and Mr. T have been married, we've essentially done something different for Turkey Day every year. We've made a tiny Thanksgiving meal for two adults and a baby, we've gone to our close friends' family's home, and we've had family here.

This year, we have six puppies in addition to three adult dogs in our house. T Junior is 3-1/2 and full of energy. I don't want to stand in the kitchen all day. Neither does Mr. T.

At Costco a couple weeks ago, we made a quick decision to do an all pre-made Thanksgiving. Costco stuffing. A pre-cooked turkey breast from Costco. Costco pumpkin pie. Even Costco mashed potatoes. It was Mr. T's idea, and I told him to "just do it before I change my mind." Later, I picked up canned cranberries at the grocery store.

At some point we will have to put an apple pie in the oven, but the filling was pre-made from apples picked from our own tree a few months ago. Refrigerated pie crusts are chilling.

I know some people might guffaw at what I'm calling "A Very Special Costco Thanksgiving," but I am enjoying the non-stress I have about the day. And I'm loving that we are flexible enough to do something different every year. In fact, I feel like in our little family, the fact that we do something new each holiday is sort of our tradition.

Tomorrow I'm going on a long run with friends early in the morning to burn some cals, then coming home for breakfast with Mr. T and, of course, the Thanksgiving Day parade with T Junior. Then we may play games or do a puzzle. I have a new craft I want to try. There'll be football on TV and a fire in the fireplace. And I'll be ENJOYING it all.

I won't be standing in the kitchen watching everything from behind an island piled with pots and pans and casserole dishes. I'm aware I won't be having my sister's OJ-infused sweet potatoes or my family's traditional corn pudding or Mr. T's mom's pecan pie.

But it's just food! Am I thankful that my family has food to eat? Yes. But, this year, I'm also thankful that I won't have to make it.

Free Turkey Trot! (Sidebar: Why Jumping in the Shower Makes me Laugh)

2011-11-23T12:20:00.000-08:00

Did you read my post the other day? NINE dogs. I can't afford registration fees right now.

So me, Mel (Tall Mom on the Run), Zoë (Run, Zoë, Run), Karla (Running on Eagles Wings) and anyone else who wants to come on down to our neck of the woods (literally) to run will be trottin' along in the hopes of negating a high-calorie turkey dinner tomorrow morning.

DailyMile's Feed the
Turkey 5K is raising
money for charity:water.

And I won't even charge you! I will be timing 5K of my run for DailyMile's Feed the Turkey 5K, although several (or all) of us will be going longer. (Okay, so I did donate a little money to participate in the virtual 5K, but it was optional.)

If you are interested in meeting up with us, please e-mail me for the location and more information at kerrie (at) sanitydepartment (dot) com.

I plan to bring some sort of treat, although I haven't worked out exactly what that will be yet, so don't get too excited. I may just show up with a bunch of white chocolate-peppermint-covered pretzels. (If you read my 2Toms blog today on my weightloss, then you know what I'm talkin' about.)

So....last night, I jumped on the treadmill.

Sidebar: I just love how T Junior, who is 3-1/2, takes everything in the literal sense. For example, I once told him I was going to jump in the shower. He stared at me and I could just see inside his brain a little image of his mother jumping up and down in the shower.

Sidebar-sidebar: I feel like the "sidebar" is my new thing, although it's not really new. I'm sort of ~~made fun of~~ known for going off on random tangents.

Sidebar-sidebar complete.

Sidebar complete.

I stepped onto the treadmill. Better? I pushed start...okay. Anyway, I jumped on the 'mill. I walked for a quarter-mile to warm up as I searched the TV for something good to watch (read: won't matter if I can't hear it). I found some college basketball and I turned on my running music, then away I went on a speed workout.

I have been finding the treadmill challenging lately, but last night I discovered a good sporting event and my "fast" playlist totally help. I played with the incline for the first half-mile of the run, but then I remembered I was supposed to be working on speed and so I decided to just pick one thing to focus on (which as you probably know is very difficult for me). Every quarter-mile, I bumped the speed up a little until I was in the sub-8's (Mile 1.75-2). Then, I slowly decreased it over the next mile. I ran a total of three miles, then I walked for another quarter-mile to cooldown.

Sidebar: How come DailyMile says I did 4 miles yesterday? I feel like 3.5 to 4 is sort of a big stretch.

Sidebar complete.

Oh, and post complete, too.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

It Doesn't Rain in Seattle (And I Bet You Can't Outdo My Salmon Joke)

2011-11-22T17:38:00.000-08:00

Everyone thinks it rains so much in the Pacific Northwest. It doesn’t rain here. It mists.

Seattle mist is light, and it comes at you from all directions. That’s why nobody carries umbrellas here (useless) and so many women wear ponytails (not just for running!). The mist also comes and goes throughout the day, usually clearing up by the time dinner’s ready (thanks).

But today it’s raining in Seattle. We’re getting some real raindrops. The kind of splashy drops that make you race for cover. Drops that hurt when you get a direct-hit to the eyeball.

These are the kind of drops that will make even the most dedicated runners stay indoors. I haven’t seen one runner out my window today, and I normally see at least five or six...and I work in an industrial area.

I mean, would you want to go out there?

We don’t mind running in the rain in Seattle, so long as the rain is mist.

Looks like I'll be treadmillin' it tonight.

And, now, for your enjoyment:

Do you think these guys know to look both ways before they swim across the road?

Hey, why did the female salmon cross the road? Because the flooding river ladder.

Get it? “Ladder” sounds sort of like “let her.”

Okay, then, what’s your best “Why did the salmon cross the road” joke?

I Guess My Running Just Needed a Dose of... Running

2011-11-21T07:55:00.000-08:00

Hooray for running buddies!

I needed a kick in the pants last weekend.

I ran Monday and then...I did two strength workouts...and then...nothing. I just didn't feel like going during the workday and I didn't feel like getting up early and I didn't feel like running in the wind and I didn't feel like running in the dark. Therefore, I wanted the perfect weather to run in and I only wanted to go in the afternoon.

Yeah, nobody ever has the ideal time to run. We fit it in, right? That's just what we do.

So, as I mentioned, I didn't run all week. But I am superproud of myself for not panicking about it, and just allowing myself the little break. I'm not proud that I've gained almost 5 pounds over the last few weeks.

Side bar:

Have any of you been to Popcorn Pavilion at Bel Square? O. M. G. (Or as T Junior would say, M. O. G.) I cannot get out of that mall without stopping at that darn popcorn place and bringing home multiple bags of their delicious popped corn.

Side bar complete.

Anyway, I've come to this conclusion: Running, like writing, is easier to keep up when you do it more often. Take too long a break and it's hard to get back in the routine. So thank goodness for running buddies.

I posted in our Facebook group (Women Runners of King County) to see if anyone wanted to run on Saturday. I had a few bites, and we planned to meet 7 a.m. Except then we changed it to Sunday. No worries.

Saturday night, I tried to change it to Sunday afternoon because it was freezing over outside. Zoë (Run, Zoë, Run) texted me back: "Let's be popsicles!"

Okay, I can't put running off any later.

So we met early Sunday morning at one of our favorite trails and we set out in 30-degree weather. Everything was white with a thick frost. Kicking frozen leaves felt like kicking rocks. Our lips were numb. Our faces hurt. We concentrated on not slipping. We whined and laughed about it and Zoe called us whimps.

Even my hair was frosty.

At 2 miles, my watch rang out and I checked it. "Only 2 miles?!" I burst out. Usually, time flies with a running buddy, but I was so cold! Funny, though, the next mile went by in what felt like seconds. We turned around and suddenly I had something in my shoe.

It felt like a small twig. I had to stop and remove my shoe. This has never happened before. I shook my Saucony and Zoe laughed at me because all she said she saw fall out was a little string or something. "Maybe it's in my sock," I said.

And there I was removing my sock in 30 degree weather. "See," I said, "We still have adventures."

We took the opportunity to snap some photos.

This is what happens when you make your running
buddy laugh as she snaps the picture. Heehee.

Sunday's six-miler was so cold that it took two coffee and Bailey's, and one hot shower to warm up. But it was just the kick in the running tights I needed. I feel reinvigorated.

The rain is supposed to be heavy this week, but I don't care. Rain, sleet, snow, wind...whatevs. I'm going running.

The Puppy's on the Table

2011-11-18T22:11:00.000-08:00

We've got nine dogs in our house right now: three adults and six 3-week-old puppies. Last week, when they were juuuust starting to wobble around on all four feet, I was sitting near the whelping box with T Junior. We were doing something menial like putting his socks on or something, when out of the blue and with big, round I've-got-an-idea-eyes, he says, "Let's put a puppy on the table and see what happens!"

I, of course, said "No" (after I stopped laughing), because I'm a reasonable person and can predict what would happen. A three-year-old boy does not have that ability.

But I have had a difficult time predicting what's going to happen with Mom vs. Marathon. This blog is a little black rain cloud over me lately and I'll admit that I've thought about shuttin' 'er down a lot lately.

I started blogging two years ago to track my progress from couch-sitting new mom to mama marathoner. I sort of feel like I completed that transformation. Obviously, I'm no Kara Goucher, but I did run my 26.2.

To hold things over, I've been falling back on some pre-thought-out magazine-style posts, and haven't been visiting your blogs. Sorry 'bout that. Also, I haven't really been running. That doesn't help.

Then there is the problem of thinking. I like to think. And think. And think some more. And then think after that. Usually, nothing comes of this except shorter fingernails. But I think I've got it.

I wasn't just blogging about my progress before. I was using the blog as a sounding-board. Does this happen to you? Am I nuts? Etc. I need to find that again. Funny thing is, these are the same things I wonder about as a mom.

A couple weeks ago, someone asked me how long my marathon was. Well, my running marathon was 26.2 miles (after months and months of training). But my mommy-marathon has no end.

So, I'm bringing back my mom blog, The Sanity Department. When I have something mommish to say, I'll blog there. When I finally run again (tomorrow morning with Zoe maybe in the snow!), I'll blog here. If you want to hear how my run went and whether or not I kissed a slug, got a PR or met up with buddies, it'll be here.

And if you want to hear about my funny kid's thoughts, his "talking" spiders (AKA his hands) or "bruvver Doroffy" (his imaginary friend who he adamantly denies being named after Elmo's fish), follow me at www.SanityDepartment.com. I miss that blog. It's been about a year since I wrote there. Whenever I go back and read it, I smile, because it's about my son.

Still, as a journalist/copywriter/writer, I can't help thinking: But are these the types of things people want to read? Just stuff that happened to me today?

My fingernails are nubs. Seriously.

But then I got to thinking about that puppy on the table. Maybe what I think would happen, wouldn't. I mean, maybe the puppy would sprout magical wings. Or maybe T Junior was thinking the puppy would be wearing a jet pack while on the table. Perhaps, the puppy would just stay on the table and be happy about it because someone left prime rib up there. (Who would do that, though, because prime rib is delicious and expensive.)

Basically, what I'm trying to say is that I'm excited get back to my style of writing again...little stories about life...about motherhood...about trying to stay in shape when I'm not training for anything (yikes), about...whatever I feel like writing about. I'll write here sometimes and at Sanity Department sometimes. Whenevs. These are my blogs, darn it. I can do what I like.

So, let's put these puppies on the table and see what happens!

3 Articles You Definitely Want to Check Out + 1 Bonus One, So Okay, Technically that's 4

2011-11-16T18:00:00.000-08:00

STORY 1:

Sometimes runners complicate things by using their heads too much instead of their feet. This is a great article from the New York Times on how too much information can actually thwart a person's plans to run. Read it HERE.

STORY 2:

See why keeping your diet a secret might actually make you more successful at losing weight. I've often wondered about this, so I find the CNN article fascinating. Read it HERE.

STORY 3:

The stretching debate continues: should you, shouldn't you? Find out in this New York Times article HERE.

BONUS!

As many of you know, I recently started blogging at 2Toms. Well, they are holding the very first giveaway of their brand new sports detergent!

I know, I know. It's not a "sexy" giveaway, but stinky running gear isn't sexy either. Please go HERE to enter the giveaway -- there will be two winners!

5 Reasons Why I Like FinishSafe Sports ID: A Review

2011-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

1. Safety back-up. Running with friends is safer than going solo, but if something were to happen to me, my running buddy would not be able to tell an emergency worker my vital stats. But FinishSafe can. With a FinishSafe FinishTag, an emergency worker chooses what is most convenient to use -- telephone, smartphone app, online, or an automatic text-back system -- and enters your individual "LifePin" number to retrieve your important medical information. I feel this would be especially great for someone with a medical condition, such as asthma, diabetes, allergies, etc.

2. Lots of ways to wear your info. When you sign up for the FREE "LifePin," you get your first three FinishTags for free. But you can order the FinishTags Plus option and actually get seven tags -- and they can go in your wallet, on your keys, on your luggage, on your shoes, on your bike, anywhere! The FinishTag Sprint bracelet is also an option, and it is very inexpensive.

3. It's FREE. Signing up for your "LifePin" is FREE and the first three FinishTags are FREE, too. Free is always good.

4. An inexpensive ID bracelet option. The FinishTag Sprint bracelet comes with a long Velcro strap ensuring it will fit anyone. I also like that I can choose to put it on my wrist or ankle, and that it doesn't cost a lot -- $6.99. Plus, they come in pink! (And black, yellow, blue and red.)

5. Simple and fast to sign up. Entering my information on the secure FinishSafe site was quick and easy. (See below for an example.) It takes me longer to get ready to run than it did for me to sign up!

What is The Cloud-Buster?

2011-11-14T13:21:00.000-08:00

Just after he got out of bed this morning, my 3-year-old son said, "It's getting dark outside." I made an aw-shucks face. "Nope, buddy, this is light," I said in my best Eeyore voice. "It is daytime."

That is the Seattle area for ya. Even though the clouds and rain help give the grass and trees their vibrant green hues, it is so easy to lose sight of that beauty when there is so much gray. It can get you down sometimes if you let it.

Today, was my first run on my let's-not-overdo-it-and-get-hurt schedule. Running just three days a week now for a while: Monday (zen/recovery), Wednesday (speed) and Saturday (long/slow). Cross-training/strength will be Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.

Running in the fall and winter...and spring can be challenging. Especially here. It's dark outside. A lot.

Today, the clouds are moody and muddled gray. This afternoon, I sort of wanted curl up with a book and a cup of coffee instead of running, but I put my workout clothes on early this morning and it would feel like a fail to take off clean exercise gear. So I went. Besides, I was only going for 30 minutes...or 3 miles, whichever came first.

I walked outside and froze. It was not just gray, it was cold. And there was an icy breeze for the first half-mile when my body hadn't warmed up yet. I considered turning around and coming back inside. I'll finish this biznitch up on the treadmill. Luckily, I came to my senses.

On Miles 2 and 3, I was thoroughly enjoying my tunes and swinging my (now blond-ish) ponytail. (I got highlights. I'm trying to hold onto summer...and covering up, you guessed it, gray.) I was smiling, feeling good. I didn't notice the cold or clouds at all anymore. It helped that I could feel my fingers by then. I breathed in the crisp scent of pine and noticed the golden leaves on some magnificent maples.

Back in my living room, and done running however, I again noticed how gray it was outside. Funny: Inside, I felt warm and sunny. And this is why I'm naming this run: The Cloud-Buster.

Get your Cloud-Buster on! It's easy: 30 minutes (or 3 miles whichever comes first) of zen (comfortable pace) running OUTSIDE on a gray day. I guarantee you'll come home smiling! (If you do it, come share your Cloud-Buster story on my Facebook page HERE!)

Is it Okay to Miss a Day of Running or Two?

2011-11-13T08:43:00.000-08:00

I haven't run since Wednesday. It is now Sunday.

"ACCORDING TO AN RW POLL, 65% OF RESPONDENTS FEEL GUILTY AFTER NOT RUNNING FOR A DAY OR TWO; 4% NEVER FEEL GUILTY." I saw this at the end of a recent Runner's World article.

A few months ago, I would've been panicked about missing a couple runs. Oh no. I'm going to lose my fitness. I won't remember how to run. I'm going to get out of the habit. I must run now no matter what. Look out, people, I'm going running. No, I do not care if we had plans. I. Gotta. Run. Now.

Today, I'm like, Huh, it's been since Wednesday since I've been on a run. I'm not broken up about it. Friday, I had plans with T Junior, Miss Goober, Zoë and Chelsea. Saturday, Chelsea and I made and froze a bunch of meals, then hung out drinking the occasional cocktail and playing catch with T Junior while watching football and the puppies.

A couple of weeks ago, I decided I needed to get 1,000 miles for the year. Like really do it. After all, I've been signed up for Tall Mom on the Run's group since the beginning of 2011. I was taking extra walks and running more for a couple weeks. And it was sort of fun, and a challenge (which I like).

But then I had to be honest with myself. My left shin was getting more and more sore. I was starting to worry about it a little. Funny thing is I noticed it when I was walking more. I guess that makes sense, though, since my PT told me over the summer, "You're running form is actually better than your walking form."

Anyway, I decided to go back to running 3 days a week and then insert more strength workouts on non-running days. Maybe I'll even take a yoga class or sign up for boot camp. I just decided this last week, so technically, I've only missed one run: Sunday. So there!

What really made me feel good about my decision was the article in Runner's World about scaling back on the miles in winter.

Go HERE for the article.

Taking a break is a good thing. It gives your body time to repair muscles. Besides, running is such a way of life now, I know I won't go back to my old sedentary ways. Funny thing is, I lose a little weight when I scale back on my running because I'm not using mileage as a reason why I can eat more. So, I'm down 1.5 pounds over last week. (I also cut out having dessert every night. That helps.)

So maybe I won't be hitting Mile 1,000 this year, but I'm fine with that. And I'm also just fine with the fact that I didn't get up and go running this morning.

Today, I'm in the 4 percent. Come on over. It'll be okay!

Why a Marathon is No Match for You

2011-11-11T09:21:00.000-08:00

You are determined to change your life because you want to do more.

You are confident because you are ready to achieve your dream.

You are smart because, well, all runners are.

You are tough because you gave birth. (Any way you do it, it's no joke.)

You are dedicated because you raise a child (or if you're a real rock star, children).

You are a runner because you get out there and run.

11 Things You Should Do this Weekend Because Why Not?

2011-11-10T19:11:00.000-08:00

1. Go for a run. Duh.

2. Have a friend come over and make 30 days worth of meals to freeze. (See you tomorrow, Chels!)

3. Wash your gym bag. When's the last time you did that?

4. Play a board game or put together a puzzle.

5. Make a Christmas playlist (I've already started mine).

6. Buy a puppy! (Okay, they're not for everyone, but I know where you can get some cutie boxer pups...or, at least, watch them on video.)

7. Check out Pinterest. (You'll be addicted. Sorry.)

8. Set your timer for 15 minutes and see how much cleaning you can get done in that time. (Wish I could remember who told me this trick.)

9. Snuggle with your kid/hubby/pets.

10. Look at family pictures...with your family.

11. Sign up for a race!

How I Will Choose My Goals for 2012

2011-11-08T21:52:00.000-08:00

In my post at 2Toms yesterday I discussed some helpful hints for goal-planning. Here are my answers to the questions I found at PickTheBrain.com, which I am answering in regard to running and life in order to plan for 2012.

What are your values?
I suppose these are the same whether I’m talking about life in general or running. In no particular order:

Family
A sense of accomplishment
Monetary comfort
Adventure
Good health
Friends

What are your strengths?
This one is extremely difficult for me. Writing and talking do come very easily for me. By talking, I mean just chatting it up with whomever -- much to Mr. T's horror. Beyond that, though, I’m not sure. I love running, but I don’t think it comes easy to me, although now that I’m all trained up, it feels like it does. Here are a few, but I need to think on this one a bit longer.

Writing
Talking
Humor (this, obviously, is objective...)

What do I love doing?
This was difficult. I love doing a lot of things. And I had to be honest. I do love shopping.

Being outside (running, hiking)
Writing (about my experiences)
Exploring new places/activities/ideas alone and with family or friends
Socializing
Shopping

What do I want my ideal day to look like?
Unfortunately, I don’t know if there’s enough time in a day for the following “ideal day.” Also, Mr. T doesn’t get home from work until after dinner. However, we were discussing that T Junior is 3-1/2 and could probably stay up a bit later than he does now, so maybe we can move dinner back a little.

Write
Run/exercise
Play with T Junior
Family dinner
Family game or play
Time alone with Mr. T
Write or read

With these things to consider, I will choose my goals -- running and not -- for 2012, although there's no reason why I couldn't get started now. Right?

What goals do you have for 2012 that are not running-related?

Goal Posts

2011-11-07T18:03:00.000-08:00

Are you thinking about your goals yet for 2012? I am! I will write more about them tomorrow. Check out my 2Toms post HERE to see how I will be determining them. And I'd love it if you left a comment there, too! Thank you!

What Runners Can Learn from a Navy SEAL

2011-11-04T06:22:00.000-07:00

I had to do some research on Navy SEALs this week and I came across the paragraph below. It is from an excerpt of the book SEAL Team Six: Memoirs of an Elite Navy Seal Sniper by Howard E. Wasdin and Stephen Templin that was published in Vanity Fair May 2011. (Go HERE for the complete article.)

I'm not comparing running to the extreme training these people go through. But "tough" is relative, isn't it? All I'm saying is that if you BELIEVE you can do it, you can. (Oh, and don't think about it too much.)

"Deprived of support in our environment and the support of our own bodies, the only thing propping us up was our belief in accomplishing the mission—complete Hell Week. In psychology this belief is called self-efficacy. Even when the mission seems impossible, it is the strength of our belief that makes success possible. The absence of this belief guarantees failure. A strong belief in the mission fuels our ability to focus, put forth effort, and persist. Believing allows us to see the goal (complete Hell Week) and break the goal down into more manageable objectives (one evolution at a time). If the evolution is a boat race, it can be broken down into even smaller objectives such as paddling. Believing allows us to seek out strategies to accomplish the objectives, such as using the larger shoulder muscles to paddle rather than the smaller forearm muscles. Then, when the race is done, move on to the next evolution. Thinking too much about what happened and what is about to happen will wear you down. Live in the moment and take it one step at a time." (From SEAL Team Six: Memoirs of an Elite Navy Seal Sniper by Howard E. Wasdin and Stephen Templin that was published in Vanity Fair May 2011)

My Rave Runs

2011-11-02T12:22:00.000-07:00

Each month, Runner's World publishes a "rave run" featuring a photo and a short description of some of the planet's most beautiful places to run. Check out a whole list of them HERE.

I'm lucky enough to have run in some of the places RW listed, including Lake Tahoe, North Bend (WA) and Seattle. I don't know if I would include North Bend and Seattle on my rave run list. Although...both places are cool and I did love running with Chelsea in Seattle back in June and North Bend is beautiful.

The locks from my Seattle run.

The trail in North Bend.

Unfortunately, the runs that I rave about most, I don't have pictures of. But when I close my eyes, I can see these places and I can remember what it felt like to run there.

Here are my rave runs:

EMERALD BAY in LAKE TAHOE, CA

Source

I ran in Emerald Bay one August day (in 1993?) during high school cross country camp (we went "up the hill" to train in the elevation). My family lived about an hour and a half from Lake Tahoe. We had a cabin there. My grandparents even lived there for a time. We went at all times of the year, and some of my fondest memories of "growing up" take place in Tahoe. So one might think running there during cross country camp wouldn't be anything too special. But running in a place elevates the magic of your surroundings, I think, and I can still smell the pine and hear the dried needles crunching underneath my NIKE Pegasuses.

MENDOCINO, CA

Source

My family took most of our vacations in California. Since it's such a large state, there are plenty of different places to go. Our usual vacations, though, were Tahoe (see above), Disneyland or Carmel-by-the-Sea. One year, we went to Mendocino. I remember telling my mom, "I'm going for a run." I can't remember what was going on -- my sisters were bugging me? -- but I needed some alone time. I remember feeling as if I was in a movie while running along the small dusty trail that winds along the top edges of the cliffs near the quaint town. Gentle grasses tickled my calves. I breathed in salt air. And whatever skirmish was going on in our little seaside hotel was left behind.

Those are the two that I remember the most -- and they are both from about the same time in my life: high school. After high school I only ran off and on...until 2009, of course.

I've been thinking a lot about my running goals for 2012. In 2011, I've met (and surpassed) most of my goals. I mean, I only wanted to run a marathon. Did it. Then I decided to go for a sub-2 half. Done. Okay, how about a 10K PR? Check. Now, all that's left is a 5K PR and I plan on conquering that in December. So now what?

At first, I was thinking about trail running. It's not really specific enough, though. But I have an idea.

How about making 2012 the year of "rave runs"? Sure, I may not be able to go to Mendocino or Lake Tahoe in 2012, but there are lots of beautiful places in Washington to discover. Right? And, who knows, maybe I'll have the opportunity to travel somewhere next year. You just never know.

Where have your "rave runs" been? Where would YOU say I HAVE to run in 2012?

Exploring New Routes: Scary or Exciting?

2011-10-31T11:31:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to try a particular new route for a while, but I was scared to. Scared because it's along the highway. Scared because it heads out to a small town I don't know well. Scared because...well, because I'd never run it before.

Saturday, in the name of Halloween, I decided to conquer my fear, and I headed out for 8 miles toward Ravensdale, a town of about 1,000 people. On the way, I passed a road that was so pretty, I couldn't resist turning down it to explore. It was lined with bright orange and yellow maple trees, but as I got a short way down the road, I got the creeps. Why?

Well, for one, I'd told Mr. T I'd be running the highway. What if something happened to me? Would the cops know where to look?

And, two, I came across a sign that said: Cemetery Reach. Oh fantastic. But then I saw the part underneath that read: Natural Area. Okay, not really a cemetery. Soon, I forgot that I'd been scared, and I turned down a side road off that side road. It was a neighborhood with bigger houses (but not too huge) on large pieces of land. I loved the neighborhood, and I will be bringing Mr. T there to see it. (There's one house for sale.) The neighborhood was a loop, and I even came across a man with a boxer, with whom I shared we currently have NINE boxers in our house right now. (See why HERE.)

Once I got back out on the main road, I had to run a bit further in order to get to the correct mileage. I snapped the photo, above, at the turn-around point. Once I got back to my town, I was hauling at a sub-9 pace just feeling really good. And it helped that there were a bunch of people with "vote for" so-and-so signs at the major intersection cheering and waving at cars. It felt like a race!

I got to the light, had to stop, and a sign guy in an orange skin suit turned to me and said, "Hi, Runner." Scary? No. Creepy? Yes. At least now I've explored that route and won't be afraid to try it again...barring dudes in skin suits, of course.

Old Trail, New Season
On Sunday, I got to explore an old route, but at a different time of year. Zoë (Run, Zoë, Run) and I met up at the Soos Creek Trail in costume (for the RunningSkirts contest). It was raining, so we snapped our costume photos, then changed a bit for our actual run.

Can you guess what I am?

Zoë's been in China for a month, and this was our first real run together since she's been back. It was so much fun. I missed my running buddy so much! The trail was gorgeous and we had fun taking some fall photos.

We didn't let Hell-Yes-Hill scare us too much at the end. Zoë cranked up her music and we charged up before finishing 5.5 miles in the parking lot.

Running with Bennie at Night

Overall, I've had a weird week of running and walking, as I've been on puppy-watch during the early morning hours. And since Bennie's been cooped up, I've been taking him on night run-walks, which have been ~~annoying~~ ~~irritating~~ ~~crazy~~ interesting.

Check out my post about that adventure at my 2Toms blog. (I'd love it if you left a comment there with your tips, too! And did you know you can follow that blog by simply entering http://www.2toms.com/news in your Google Reader?)

Tonight is Halloween and T Junior is going to be Captain America. What are your kiddos going as?

Three Things Thursday: Puppies and No Sleep

2011-10-27T03:57:00.000-07:00

1. Our girl, Lucy, had six puppies this morning. So far, everyone is doing well. The first few days are tough.

2. It is 3:50 a.m. I have been dozing on and off, and trying to keep an eye on mama and her pups.

3. Took Bennie for two walk-runs yesterday since he is confined to the upstairs. He's a total spazz. So tired. Not sure if I will be able to take him today.

Two Times the Blogging Fun: Now at 2Toms, Too!

2011-10-25T11:42:00.000-07:00

My run felt like a smile yesterday. It was sunny and cool here in the late afternoon, and the air smelled like wet leaves.

It was one of those runs where I wanted to just keep going. I was like a child begging his mother at bedtime for "just five more minutes, pweeeeeez." At 2 miles, I asked my legs for one more. At the end of 3, I wasn't quite home yet, so I kept running and when I got by my house, I thought I'd better make it 4 just to even it up. Then I ended up running past that.

But I didn't have a lot of time for more. I had to pick up my son from day care/preschool. Juggling mommyhood, part-time and freelancing copywriting jobs, and running can be a challenge. Luckily, I like what I do.

And I'm so excited to do more!

I will now be blogging once a week for 2Toms, the anti-chafing experts that make products like SportShield and BlisterShield. I'm so excited, you guys! Not only do they have great products, but the people there are awesome!

I will be blogging about all kinds of things, from races and training to balancing exercise and life, and lots more.

Pretty please, go HERE to read my first entry.

I would LOVE it if you would leave me some feedback there on things you'd like me to talk about or find out for you, and I would be so grateful if you signed up to see my posts in your e-mail, too. You can also like them on Facebook HERE.

Thank you for making my whole day feel like a smile.

The (Very Soggy) Cupcake Classic Recap

2011-10-23T18:45:00.000-07:00

What: Jess (Run with Jess) hosted the 3.7 Cupcake Classic virtual race for her birthday and to raise money for the American Cancer Society.

When: Alma (The Average Woman's Running Blog) suggested on our local running group's page* that we all meet up and do the race together on Saturday morning at 7 a.m.

Who: Alma, me, Carla (Foil-Wrapped Runner), Karla (Running on Eagles Wings) and Zoë (Run, Zoë, Run), who is just one week back from a month-long stay in China.

Alma, Carla, Karla and Zoe

Carla, Karla, Alma and me (aka drowned rat)

Where: The Cedar River Trail (CRT)

The Outfit: Black Pace Setter Lululemon skirt, pink Lulu jacket and my HautePink RunLove socks from RunningSkirts

The Weather:

-Downpour in the dark.

-I didn't know it was raining until I was out on my front porch. I was already 5 minutes late and had no time to change. Plus, my capris were in the dirty laundry.

-I had my windshield wipers on full power on the drive (about 25 minutes) to our meeting place on the CRT.

The Run:

-I was last to arrive, and the four others were standing out in the rain waiting for me. I felt bad.

-I got out and put on my headlamp. Still pouring. Drenched immediately.

-We walked across the bridge over the river to the trail and got started running.

-It was dark, but we had headlamps.

-It was LOUD with the rain pelting the leaves on the cottonwood trees.

-I stepped in a puddle. Sonuva! (Not that it really mattered. Feet were already wet. But now they were squishy.)

-We saw about 4 other groups of ~~crazies~~ runners on the trail.

-Cars driving by the trail are louder when the road is wet.

-The rain softened in the daylight.

-We turned just before Mile 2 to head back. Alma is recovering from an injury and Zoe was not able to run for a month+ in China, so we needed to end at the car.

-I brought mini cupcakes, Alma made spice muffins for us (I saved mine for the drive home) and we took pictures, then said our goodbyes.

-I peeled off my soaked Lulu jacket and put on a dry Brooks jacket.

-Carla and I headed back out to the trail for another four miles in the light(er) rain. (I really enjoyed getting to know her more. Thanks, Carla!)

The Result:
None of us ran for time. We just had fun running and chatting! Thanks for holding the race, Jess! And happy birthday!

Post Race:
I stopped at a local coffee stand and ordered a small eggnog latte. It went perfect with the muffin Alma made! The coffee stand owner took one look at me (soaked) and asked me what I'd been doing. I told him I went for a run. "You are dedicated," he said, but I confessed that I didn't know it was raining till I was getting in my car. Too late to turn back then! I was committed. Or...maybe I/we should be committed.

*We have a very relaxed group called the Women Runners of King County (WeROKC). If you live in the Seattle (King, Pierce or Snohomish counties included) area and want to be added to the group, or would like more information, e-mail me at kerrie (at) sanitydepartment (dot) com. We organize group runs through a locked Facebook group page. We also communicate about upcoming races, etc., on the page.

You Have to Read This

2011-10-19T21:42:00.000-07:00

I just want everyone to read the story below. This young woman is so inspiring. It just made me really appreciate that I can run. By myself. With my dog. With a friend. On a treadmill. On a trail. On the sidewalk In a race. Wherever. Whenever. The only boundary I have is ME.

"Blind Lexington athlete making history with dog"

From the Mansfield News Journal.

Did you read it? Isn't she awesome? And how about the coaches?

Still Sick, but You Know What?

2011-10-19T11:46:00.000-07:00

Should I Run When I'm Sick?

2011-10-16T22:32:00.000-07:00

Run, hack, hack, hack run.

I have a stupid, stupid cold. I mean this cold is really lame.

It started as a little sore throat last Tuesday night. Not bad at all. I thought, This'll be gone in like two days. Mr. T still had it after a week (and it had morphed into a cough), but I thought, I run. I take a multivitamin plus vitamin C. I'll be better way faster than he is.

Yeah, we both still have it. But I'm in the thick of it now.

Of course, I'm not sure if I should or should not run and/or exercise. Despite the cold, I managed almost 23 miles this week ending with a long run of 9 miles Friday on. the. treadmill. (Brainless Bring It On is pretty much a great treadmill movie.) Sunday, I got to wondering if all that running while sick was a smart thing to do. Or not.

So I looked it up and found this great Runner's World article about running while sick (HERE). I liked what one of the doctors said:

"David Nieman, Ph.D., who heads the Human Performance Laboratory at Appalachian State University, and has run 58 marathons and ultras, uses the 'neck rule.' Symptoms below the neck (chest cold, bronchial infection, body ache) require time off, while symptoms above the neck (runny nose, stuffiness, sneezing) don't pose a risk to runners continuing workouts." (Should You Run When You're Sick? by Marc Bloom, Runner's World, 2004)

I think I'm all above the neck, so I think I should be okay as long as I don't overdo it. An article in the Running Times points out (HERE): "Pushing too hard may prolong the course of the illness and increase the potential for complications."

I put my running stuff out for a Monday morning run, but I've been feeling pretty crummy in the mornings, so we shall see. I may have to pull a treadmill run out later in the day. I do really want to run, though, because 1) it makes me feel better mentally and 2) I'm eating like a bear getting ready to hibernate.

What do you do when you're sick? Rest or run?

Running a Marathon While Pregnant: Okay or Not?

2011-10-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

AP Photo

On Sunday, Amber Miller (at right) ran and walked the Chicago marathon. A few hours later, she gave birth.

I've seen lots of different comments about her choice to participate in the race at about 39 weeks pregnant. I have to say, I'm on the fence about it.

I mean, I wouldn't want to do that. That does not sound fun at all to me. I don't know that it's unsafe, though? According to an article in the Houston Chronicle, it's not the best, but it's not the worst, either.

"It was pretty extreme," said Dr. Kathy Sander, an obstetrician at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic who also runs. "The guidelines that we follow are if you are previously a runner prior to pregnancy, then it's safe to continue with modifications. "My general feeling is I would hope that my patients' modifications would include running less than 26.2 miles." (Marathons and Pregnancy Should Not Mix, Roberta MacInnis, Houston Chronicle, Oct. 13, 2011)

I have a running buddy who ran throughout her pregnancy. You may know her: Zoë from Run, Zoë, Run. In 2010, we ran-walked at 10K, and she also walk-jogged a 5K after that (pictured at right). A 10K and a 5K are totally different animals than a marathon as we all know. (She didn't take on her marathon until after little Goober was born, and that was no walk in the park.)

So, is it safe to run a marathon while pregnant? Especially near full-term?

I did a little search on the interwebs:

"Doctors warn that there are potential dangers involved in exercising too much during pregnancy. Low birth weight (defined as less than 5 1/2 pounds) is a concern especially if you are a pregnant woman running 60 miles a week. If you run long distances you may end up struggling to get enough nutrition for you and your baby. If you plan to run while you are pregnant doctors warn that you need to be vigilant about your calorie intake and really focus on balancing out running with eating." (Should You Run a Marathon While Pregnant?, Michele Cheplic, Familes.com)

Basically, everything I can find say as long as you've been running and you get the "okay" from a doctor, it's okay to walk-jog. Like Dr. Sander said above, though, the full 26.2 may not be the best idea.

Still. Who wants to do a marathon while that pregnant? Not me.

What do you think? Did you run during your pregnancies? Would you? Would you run a marathon while pregnant?

Review: RunningSkirts and RunLove Socks

2011-10-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

I am not a girly-girl. I don't get mani-pedis once a week, I haven't had my hair cut since March and I can watch football for hours. But I do enjoy the occasional chick flick, the color pink, and I wear a skirt when I run.

Feb. 2010

The first time I wore a RunningSkirt, I was hooked (photo at right). I was in the process of losing weight and I liked the way the flattering A-line looked. Running shorts rode up until they resembled a diaper. Half the battle of getting out to run, back then, was figuring out what I could wear running that would make me feel good/okay about my body. A RunningSkirt did that nicely. Yes, my thighs rubbed, but lubing them up fixed that.

Now, I'm at least 20-30 (or more?) pounds lighter than the first time I wore a skirt, but I'm no stick. I still like the way the skirts flatter and disguise. And my thighs still touch (they always will -- I am loving my 2Toms Sports Shield).

The athletic-style RunningSkirt, which I am reviewing in this post, is a Size 3 (I wear a size 6-8 in jeans) and has built-in compression shorts, which you can see in the action shot (below) from the finish at my recent (PR/sub-2!) half marathon. One of the things I love about these skirts is that they don't squeeze my waist. I still have some baby belly and it can get muffin-topish when squeezed. The skirts have a nice, wide waistband that flatters -- it's snug (but not tight) and it doesn't fall down.

I put my purple RunningSkirt to the test during the half. I put it on around 6:30 a.m. and wore it until I returned home around 1 p.m. For an hour and 52 minutes of that, I was running at about an 8:30 pace. I was able to access the gels I'd put in the hip pockets, easily opening the small Velcro tab (I had one gel in each pocket). The built-in athletic shorts on my running skirt stayed completely put for all 13.1 miles in the rain. If that's not a test, I don't know what is. I never once had to worry about my skirt...or my RunLove socks.

I've talked about the RunningSkirts RunLove socks before. I heart them. See:

RunningSkirts sent me a matching purple pair to review, but I wore my Haute Pink ones in the half because they matched my Will Run for Ice Cream team shirt better. I have worn my purple ones on several runs, though, and, well, I think we all know that the color doesn't really make a difference in performance. Or...maybe it does since my matching skirt and socks helped me get a sub-50 10K recently. Hmmm...

But they do look supercute with the purple skirt. And I think the color purple makes me look more tan, which is nice.

Just because I wear a skirt, doesn't mean
I'm not serious about running. Racing the clock
here to get a 49:48 10K.*

The first time I wore RunLove compression socks, on a 16-miler in the spring, I realized I'd been wearing the wrong socks. The too-thick socks I'd been wearing rubbed and caused blisters, but after 16 miles in the RunLoves, all I had were my existing blisters. No new ones! The other thing I love about the RunLove socks is that they provide some muscle support to my shins and calves. These socks are tight, but not as tight as other compression socks I've worn. What I like most is that they don't move on my foot and that they look cute!

The moral of this story is: Don't be afraid to try new wardrobe options. Obviously, don't try them on a long run if you can help it.

Check out RunningSkirts.com to shop or browse their fall collection. I've tried every style and love them all. I wore a Capri Skirt and the original Running Skirt during Hood to Coast (Capri Skirt review to come soon).

Here are a few tips for your running skirts:

Size is important. Too big and the skirt may fall down as you run or the compression shorts may not be tight enough and ride up.
Lube your thighs before you put on your skirt. It's just easier, and then you won't stretch out the compression shorts trying to pull them up to lube underneath.
Don't dry your RunningSkirt in the dryer. Hang it to dry so the skirt (and shorts) will keep their shape and size. I hang mine up at night and they are dry by morning.

Thank you to RunningSkirts for providing me with a skirt and socks to review. I received them for free, but the opinions above are entirely my own.

*Yes, I will be purchasing the picture. It's not pretty, but it was a significant race for me.

A Runner's Plan for Writing a Book

2011-10-11T06:17:00.000-07:00

Lately, I feel like an imposter.

Many of you have told me that the way I set goals and accomplish them is inspirational. Thank you so much. And, yes, lately it seems I've been able to do this in my running.

But there is one big goal I've had for YEARS that I have not been working toward. At all.

I want to write a book.

Last year, I had a short push toward it, but it fizzled during a two-week vacation. I even had a blog to try to help me, but I ended up writing more on the blog than I did writing toward my book.

I don't know why it's so hard. Maybe because I can't decide what kind of book to write or what to write about? I love the "chick lit" genre, but I also love nonfiction books about running. Should I combine the two? Mostly, though, I need to make time for writing. Just like I had to do for running.

Something occurred to me yesterday: Perhaps writing a book is like training for a marathon. What if I tackled the book the same way I trained for the marathon?

So I looked up a plan, then copied the time I would spend running to train for a marathon into time I will spend writing the first draft of my book.

(And, yes, I also will keep up my running. I need running.)

For long runs...er, "long writes" on Sundays, I looked up my times for the distances listed on the training plan and inserted them into the chart. Rest and cross training days became days I step back from writing to read instead.

Like anything, writing is a habit. And just like running -- it's difficult to get in the habit and so easy to get out of it.

So I'm taking my own advice:

Stop thinking about it and start doing it.

Motivation for the Week

2011-10-10T06:30:00.000-07:00

Get this week started off right. Stop thinking and start doing!

"Every day is a good day when you run."

-Kevin Nelson

"We may train or peak for a certain race, but running is a lifetime sport."

-Alberto Salazar

"If you want to become the best runner you can be, start now. Don't spend the rest of your life wondering if you can do it."

-Priscilla Welch

"He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish
nothing in life."

-Muhammad Ali

"We all have dreams. But in order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort."

-Jesse Owens

First Official Race Photo

2011-10-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hope you get some smiling photos in your races this weekend! Good luck!

Race Recap: Rotary Run 10K at Issaquah Salmon Days

2011-10-05T12:25:00.000-07:00

It’s 6:30 a.m. Sunday and I am having a wardrobe malfunction in my bathroom – about 30 minutes before I want to be leaving to pick up my bib and chip. The Rotary Run 10K at Issaquah Salmon Days starts at 8:45. I only live about 25 minutes away, but I want to have time to warm up, go potty, etc.

I planned on wearing my crimson WSU logo Nike Tempo shorts and Dri-fit tee, but when I put a little too much lube on my thighs, my shorts soaked it up. It creates two dark, wet spots in front, which makes it look like I peed my pants. Not really a good look before the race. After, well…it happens.

I make quick wardrobe decision and go with my purple RunningSkirt and RunLove socks, but decide against a white shirt. It just looks to UW-ish (WSU’s rival). I opt, instead, for the girly-girl look and throw on my pink WSU-logo Nike Dri-fit tee. I braid my hair (six times), put on my hat and then run downstairs to make my peanut butter and jelly sandwich – my magic pre-race breakfast.

I still end up getting to the race with plenty of time to spare (around 7:45 for an 8:45 start). I park about 75 yards from the start/finish area, visit the Honey Buckets, get my bib, then return to my minivan to eat my sandwich and be warm. It isn’t too cold outside, but it’s fall-like. Better yet, it is dry and slightly overcast. Perfect.

***
This was the first race I’ve gone to alone in a long time. I knew of one other blogger running the race: Jen from Runner…Maybe?, who I didn’t see till we were already on the course (but we did chat afterward – and I’m a moron because I forgot to get a picture with her!). And, there was a possibility Mr. T would bring T Junior for the kids 1K at 10:20, but that all depended on how the morning at home went. Still, I arrived alone, got ready alone and then went to stand in line for the Honey Buckets alone. I actually didn’t mind this. I was focused on my sub-50:00 goal.
***

As I’m standing in line for the Honey Buckets (round 2), I hear my name, look up and see a woman running at me. It’s Kim W., from Nuun, and my Van 2 Nuun Platuun teammate! We stand in line together and reminisce about port-a-potties of the past (Hood to Coast), and just catch up on stuff. Turns out Casey, from Nuun (Nuun Platuun Van 2 driver) is there, too, Kim tells me, so we go over to meet up at the Nuun tent before the start. We tattoo ourselves with blue Nuun logos (I put mine on my thigh – inspired by NP teammate T from Racing with Babes), and then I meet Casey’s lovely family and friends – most of whom are running the 5K!

We head over to the start line and find a spot up front.

***
Since I knew I’d be cutting my time goal close and I didn’t want to weave around people. I decided to let people weave around me for once -- ha!
***

At the start line, Kim gives me a shoulder massage, and I return the favor (but, honestly, I don’t give many of these and so I feel hers was far superior to mine). A race photog asks to take our picture, so we smile once and then have her get our Nuun tats in the second shot.

After that, we stand around waiting. “Three minutes,” yells the announcer.

I say, “That’s too much time,” then sigh. “Why do we do this to ourselves?” I ask nobody in particular. (I always do that: question the point of things about 30 seconds before I do them. It’s how I cope with nerves, I guess.) I don’t know what to do, so I stick my earbud in my right ear.

Finally, 30 seconds till run-time. And then an air horn signals the start and we are off. Being only a few rows back from the race leaders (who finished in 32 minutes), I start off a bit too fast. I look down around the quarter-mile mark and see 6:46 and say, “Whoa!” I try to slow down. I look down again a minute later: 6:50. Okay, I think, I have GOT to relax and get into MY pace. Finally, I am able slow it waaay down.

People (including Kim and Casey) zip by me on the left and right on Gilman Boulevard. It is hard not to want to stay with them, but I know I’ll never make it to the finish if I run too fast at the start. Finally, I calm down enough to stick near an 8:00-minute pace (give or take a few seconds).

My legs are tight, though.

***
I needed to have warmed up a bit more than I did. It’s just so hard for me to find the balance of socializing and putting on my game face. I mean, it’s just running. I’m not going to win any races here, so I tend to lean more to the “have fun” side of things.
***

I struggle to find my legs. I feel like they are tied together with a rubber band at my ankles. There’s a slight decline around Mile 2. It helps a little bit, and then we run through the Salmon Days vendor booths. I remember loving this part when this was my first race in 2009 and so I take it all in again.

The vendors are just getting ready for the festival, and many of them stop, clap and cheer. Some of them sit in their chairs with coffee to watch, some are busy firing up vats of grease or stirring sugary kernels in cast iron kettles. All the smells blend together during this short pass up Front Street and through the booths. It’s delicious and noisy.

We are almost to Mile 3, and I think, Already? Then, I’m half-done! We wind through a tree-lined trail. The trees are thick and the low-hanging branches have dropped yellow leaves, so they are scattered on the pathway. Then we up onto a wide road and back toward the finish line. There’s a small incline, but it’s gradual and short.

I am relieved to be heading back toward the finish since my brain keeps trying to get me to slow down. I’ve been keeping it fairly close to the planned 8-minute pace, but my mind keeps saying, “This hurts. Let’s stop.”

I also think A LOT about NOT making my goal and how “I’ll be totally fine with that.” But then I think, I gotta at least try. And then: But what if I try and then I don’t get it? That would suck.

***
But that’s the whole point of running races, isn’t it? You don’t know if you can do it. You just push yourself to see if you can. To prove yourself wrong. Right?
***

We go back through the vendor area now. There are more people milling around the booths – early festival-goers, I guess. The way back is a little different than the way out, and I’m glad because I know it is all flat till the end – not that there were any real hills, more like bumps.

But I also remember that the 10K racers get dumped into the 5K racers at some point, and I know it’s coming up soon. I just can’t remember where. In 2009, this frustrated me. Most of the people I had to weave around that time were walkers, and I had to yell, “On your left!” so I could get by them.

Soon enough, I see where the two courses merge. And. It’s. Jam-packed. I think, Holy crap. I cannot yell at people this year. I’m more than 5 miles into this thing and I’ve been keeping my pace in the low-8’s, high-7’s. This is fast for me, and it’s hard. I wish I’d been good at keeping up with my strength training, I think. I could really use some power right now, as I dodged kids running with parents, dads pushing double-joggers (wow!), runners abruptly coming to a walk.

All of Mile 6 is like this. It’s frustrating, but I find a man with crazy-big calf muscles who is just a little faster than me (although it doesn’t look like he’s trying that hard – he looks like he’s out for a jog) and I follow his line as weaves around people.

I don’t have the ability to look at my watch anymore. I’m just trying to keep my legs moving as fast as they can without running into someone. It’s thick with people. And I know we will all have to turn left soon onto the road that acts as the finish chute.

Luckily, it thins out as we come to the turn and I’m able to stay on the inside. I have a about .1 till the finish line. My eyes scan for the clock and I see 49-something. It’s low 49. I can make it. Maybe. Maybe. If I run hard.

I dig deep and use every muscle, every breath to its fullest. I make my legs turn-over faster and I can feel my stride is now bigger as I reach with my feet for the finish line. I pass a person, and another person, and another. I’m passing lots of people. I feel as though my feet are barely touching the ground. As I get closer, I realize I’m really going to make it. Barely.

Gogogogogogogogogogo, is really the only thing I’m thinking. I have tunnel vision. I cannot look up, just at the blacktop in front of me. I hear cheering and pretend it’s for me. Maybe it is. I feel like I’m flying!

I cross the blue mat and stop my watch afterward, which says 49:51! I did it! I’m smiling as I wobble over to a young man on an upside milk crate. He cuts my timing chip off. I’m done. I’ve accomplished another goal.

I wander toward the Nuun tent, but it’s crowded and slow. But Kim finds me. “You did it!” she says and gives me a sweaty hug. And we find Casey and Kim brags for me.

***
I cannot say enough about the kindness of runners. Not only do we get to be happy about our own times, we get overjoyed when our friends do well, too. Kim won her age group, and she finished two minutes before me. She’s a rock star. Casey also rocked the race.
***

I decide I better find out if Mr. T and T Junior are coming for the 1K, so I text him and they are on their way! I register T Junior, then head to the Nuun tent where I try to help pass out water and sample tablets (and I totally forget to get a picture with Kim and Casey).

Mostly, I’m keeping an eye out for my family. At least, with the Nuun tent, they know where to find me. Mr. T put T Junior in his WSU sweatsuit (as instructed) and T Junior is excited to get his number pinned on him. “What number are you?” I ask.

He looks down. “Number One!” We laugh. I try to introduce him to Kim and Casey, but he’s 3 and he does this acting thing where he pretends to be shy. He also won’t let me take his picture. This also is a phase I could do without.

We have about 20 minutes before the start of the 1K, so I decide to just hang out near the start line. I check my time in the Rogue tent: 49:48! I glance at my age group place: 20. Twenty?! I hoped I’d be a little higher up than that, but there were a lot of fast people at this race apparently.

I spot Jen as we hang around waiting for the kids race to start. We chat for a bit, and after she heads home, I glance at my watch: 10:19. Oh no! I panic. He’s going to miss it. They came for nothing. I suck. “Where is the kids race?!” I yell at Mr. T and look around frantically. I see a mass of cheering people at another start/finish line that must’ve been put up while we were racing. “C’mon, T Junior, we’re going to miss it!” I’m pulling him along. Mr. T tells me to calm down. I stop, pick T Junior up and hold him diagonal across my body. And I run, clutching my kid to my chest, across the parking lot toward the mass of people – the kids race, which has already started.

Luckily, I remember they are having wave starts for the different ages and he’s in Wave 3. We hadn’t missed it after all, so I settle down a little. Still, I’m nearly pushing people out of the way to get him to the start line, and we get there just as Wave 3 begins running.

There’s a little congestion at the beginning, but it thins out and T Junior is running and grinning. Except, when a kid slows down in front of him, so does he. He doesn’t understand how to go around, so I direct him. “Go around, buddy!”

The kids race is a little loop around the parking lot. Unfortunately, the parking lot is potholed, cracked and scattered with loose rocks. I worry he, or someone else, will fall the entire time. As we come to the other side of the loop, T Junior says while running, “Daddy can’t see us anymore.”

“He’ll see us at the finish line, bud,” I promise. But then we see Daddy right up ahead and T Junior sprints, arms pumping, huge stride. Please don’t fall, I pray.

The finish line is crowded, therefore uneventful since we have to walk across it. Toddlers and preschoolers are going every which way. It’s hilarious and cute. All the kids receive a little bag with a dog tag-style medal, and I place T Junior’s around his neck. He still won’t let me take a picture of him. I tell him he can’t have kettle corn (our reward) until he gets his picture taken, so he grudgingly poses with me. (top photo)

But he’s more than happy to take a picture of me and Mr. T.

After the race, T Junior and me head to the festival for our sugary popcorn. Mr. T has plans and heads home. Before we get our treat, though, we go to the hatchery and watch the salmon climb the fish ladder. After a half hour or so, I drag T Junior away -- he wants to stay, but I’m woozy from no food (except for a banana) or water post-race.

After we get our kettle corn, we search for water, but I can’t find any at the booths. I am walking, holding the side of a bag of popcorn in one hand, and T Junior is holding onto the other side with his hand (the other one shoveling the treat into his mouth). He stops chewing long enough to say, “Mom. Let’s just find a curb so we can sit down and eat our kettwe corn.”

He’s 3. How does he know “curb”?

I finally decide I will not find water, and we get an orange dream smoothie from this little Hawaiian-themed booth. It’s the perfect complement to the kettle corn, surprisingly. We plant ourselves on a curb and stuff our faces with kettle corn. We share the “smoovie,” but T Junior keeps accusing me of trying to “drink up it all.”

We sit and eat and people-watch. Then, T Junior says, “Mom. It’s a beautiful day.”

And it was.

How to Meet Running Buddies (and 2 Other Questions Answered)

2011-10-03T09:54:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I get asked questions and I don't get a chance to answer them. Here are a few recent ones:

FINDING RUNNING FRIENDS
The Bignon Family asked:
I love the group of runners that you are a part of, and wondering if you have any tips for how to meet other runners in your area? Are these women who you have always known, or did you join a running club? Do you run together a lot during the week or just race together?

First-ever blogger meet-up with Zoë in 2009.

GREAT question! It has taken a couple of years to meet all the great women that I get to run with. I met them all through blogging. Zoë (Run, Zoë, Run) was the first blogger I met up with in 2009. We discovered that we only lived about 10-15 minutes away from each other. We were both training for our first half marathon, so we met up for 11 miles.

Me and Mel during one of our lunch runs in March.

Then, Mel (Tall Mom on the Run) and I discovered we only worked about a mile from each other. I ran with her once, but she was so speedy and training for Boston, I was too scared to run with her after that. Silly. She didn't mind, so I shouldn't have. Anyway, we've been meeting for lunch runs pretty much this entire year, and it's been great.

Me and Alma at the North Olympic Discovery Half Marathon in 2010.

I met Alma (Average Woman's Running Blog) when I posted that I was not going to be able to run my first full in 2010 and was going to walk the half. She was recovering from an injury and was going to walk it, too. I met her the morning of the race and we had a blast!

I met other bloggers, like Chelsea (Will Run for Food), Amanda (5 Miles Past Empty), and Jill (Running to Sanity) through these bloggers or at blogger meet-ups before races. And the group just kept on growing. With so many people, it was getting hard to coordinate schedules. I decided to make an official running group: Women Runners of King County (WeROKC). I posted a shout-out on my blog, then I started a Facebook group so we can all easily stay in touch, post our runs and possibly meet up to run with each other. The idea was for the group to meet regularly, but it's worked better as a way to simply post and meet-up whenever.

Other tips for meeting runners in your area:

Check out your local running specialty store. They often have group runs. You may meet someone else looking for a running buddy. You can always split off from that main group later.
Look for running bloggers in your area. Most bloggers I know love to meet new running buddies. The more the merrier!
Look on Meetup.com. Some running groups post information about their weekly runs there.
Contact the race organizers of your local races. They probably will know of local running groups (they are probably in one!).

DOING HOOD TO COAST AGAIN?
Kris from Fight Hard, Finish the Race asked:
Have you thought of doing HTC again with another group of Bloggers without Nuun sponsoring the team and just splitting the cost?
I'd do HTC again in a heartbeat, but I have no idea what the costs are. I don't know if I could get the hubs on board if the cost was too high, which is why I am so grateful to Nuun for helping me get that experience.

Susan, Alyssa and me at the Portland exchange. For some reason, Alyssa and I
thought old-school dance moves were appropriate. Here, we demonstrate the lawnmower.

Somewhere along miles 22-25ish.
Still smiling thanks to the
run-walk -run method.

STILL DOING THE RUN-WALK?
And, I'm sorry I can't remember who or when, but someone recently asked me about my long runs and whether or not I was still doing the run-walk method for them.
A: I used the run-walk-run method for full marathon training in order to prevent injuries, but I did not use it for my sub-2 half training. My PT told me, when I went in to get my shin checked during full training, that I probably would not have been in to see him had I been training for a half. For me, the extra mileage (extra pounding the pavement) is what starts to irritate my calves and shins, so the run-walk-run helps reduce the impact. I seem to be fine during half training, so I am comfortable running the entire time. I loved it for the full, though. Not only did it help keep me from getting injured, it was also a great way to break up the mileage. For more information on Jeff Galloway's run-walk-run marathon training method, go HERE.

Running Crimson

2011-09-30T12:40:00.000-07:00

Running the Rotary Run at Issaquah Salmon Days on Sunday? Hope to see you! I'll be wearing...

...drum roll, please...

I've decided to support my school, so I'll be wearing outfit C (for Cougs!)

One little reminder before I go: If you want to get 25% off your purchase of Nuun products, today is the last day! Enter NUUNPLATUUN at checkout. Go HERE to shop! Have a great weekend everyone!

Three Things Thursday: Rotary Run 10K at Issaquah Salmon Days Preview

2011-09-29T11:45:00.000-07:00

1. Sunday is the Issaquah Rotary Run 10K at Issaquah Salmon Days. I have three goals, an A-goal and a B-goal, and a C-goal. My A goal is a little lofty, but you gotta dream big, right?

A. Under 50 minutes
B. PR
C. Gorge on Kettle Corn post-race

I know I will, at the very least, achieve my B-goal, since this was my very first race in 2009. I ran it in 1:10:43. I will run fast on the flat course, but I will not be upset if I do not meet my A-goal. I will, however, be upset if I do not meet my C-goal. My stomach was pretty unstable after my sub-2 half, so hopefully that doesn’t happen again.

2. I’m not sure what I am going to wear Sunday. Thus, I have three ideas. I’d love your feedback. Weather: Partly cloudy and probably be in the low-50’s, which is chillier than it has been.

Outfit A:
Theme: Harness the power of my Hood to Coast Relay teammates
Camo capri RunningSkirt
White Nike tech-tee

Outfit B:
Theme: My first marathon
Black Nike Tempo shorts with pink piping
Pink “It’s All About Attitude” Nike tech-tee
White CEP compression socks

Outfit C:
Theme: Support mah Cougs!
Crimson WSU logo Nike Tempo shorts with white piping
Crimson WSU logo Nike Dri-fit tee
White CEP compression socks

Outfit D:
Theme: Harness my sub-2 half
Purple RuningSkirt
White Nike tech-tee
Purple RunLove compression socks

3. I’m crazy busy. Too busy for this post, in fact.

Too Busy for Words

2011-09-27T22:48:00.001-07:00

On Being Proud: Before and After

2011-09-23T20:17:00.000-07:00

I think it's safe to say I'm still floating on my sub-2 PR from Sunday's half. I'm proud of myself and I'm not afraid to say that I am. The old me might've been afraid to. The new me is shouting it from the rooftops.

2011:

Here are my stats:
You Go Girl! Half Marathon
Official Final Time: 1:52:19 (Recap)
Average Pace: 8:34
Overall Place: 55/625
Division (F30-34) Place: 11/100

2010:

2010 Stats from the Mercer Island Half Marathon
Official Time: 2:14:02 (Old PR Recap - March 2010)
Average Pace: 10:14
Overall Place: 1,705/2,141
Division (F30-34) Place: 161/230

...same hat, though...

You Go Girl Half Marathon 2011 Race Recap: Sub-2 PR!

2011-09-21T21:54:00.000-07:00

Remember how a week ago, I was all like "eh, I dunno about running and blogging anymore" and stuff? Remember that?

Well, a little thing called a 1:52 half marathon totally destroyed those thoughts. When I crossed that finish line on Sunday, I almost cried. I was so proud of myself. THAT feeling is why I run races.

I know not everybody "gets" running. It's not for everyone. But everyone gets working hard for something and then accomplishing it, right? That's what Sunday was all about, Charlie Brown.

I ran the You Go Girl 10K last year. Actually, I ran-walked it. I was coming back from an injury (stress fracture in left shin), and I ran a little/walked a little with Chelsea (Will Run for Food), who also was rehabbing, and Zoë (Run, Zoë, Run), who was 8 months pregnant. We had a blast despite the rain.

I signed up for this year’s half when Jill (Running to Sanity) called me from (Captain) Diana’s car demanding my credit card number because they were on their way to register Team Will Run for Ice Cream and I WOULD be running it. So, I really didn’t have a say in the matter. But I’m glad she made me sign up.

I’ve been feeling a little ho-hum about running. Has this every happened to you? But on Saturday, out with friends Stacie (Impossible is Nothing), Tressa (Adorable Wife), Kim (Just Trying is for Little Girls) and, later, Carla (Foil-wrapped Runner), I started to feel a little more excited.

We hit the expo. (T Junior was a nightmare again. Note to self: No more expos with children.) I almost bought the aqua RunningSkirt with white polka dots, but talked myself out of it. I also talked myself out of buying GU since I thought I had a bunch left over from Hood to Coast at home.

L-R: Baby R (in stroller), Tress, Stacie, Kim, me and T Junior, who took a
moment out of screaming, "DON'T TAKE A PICTURE OF ME!" to get in the picture.

Then we had a little time to kill. So...

We had a little fun.

Boo Huskies!

We had a little sugar.

Stacie heading into Hello, Cupcake.

We gave Kim crap because she got a wimpy, tiny cupcake.

Not sure how you eat a cupcake with a knife...

We did a little cross-training.

We did a little carb-loading.

Stacie and Carla.

Me and Kim

L-R: Riley, Tressa, Stacie, Carla, T Junior (hiding behind me), me and Kim.

T Junior was mostly good (after the expo), but demonstrated that he cannot handle his sugar by doing crazy karate-dance moves in the Spaghetti Factory entryway. Wish I’d thought to take video. Darn!

Dinner was good fun, of course. I loved getting to know Tressa, Stacie, Kim and Carla more. T Junior did, too, I think. At one point, he got out of his chair, walked over to Carla, tapped her arm and said, “I want to talk to you.” Then went on and on about Angry Birds.

After ice cream (I passed on it, by the way, only because I try to stay away from dairy the day before a race -- although I DID have a cupcake with cream cheese frosting), it was time to head home and get some rest. I expected nerves to kick in, but they never really did. I fell asleep fairly easily (despite discovering before bed that I did not, in fact, have GU and was without gels). I did, however, wake up half of an hour before I was scheduled to. I’m very glad I did, though, because I had just the right amount of time. I would’ve been rushed if I’d gotten up later.

In the bathroom, I could hear the rain splattering on the window. After getting dressed, I grabbed my pre-made peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a banana out of the refrigerator. I’ve had great success eating a sandwich before races, so why change? I ate it in the car on the way to Tacoma (about a half-hour drive from my house), after a quick stop at my local grocery store that I know carries PowerGels (thank god!).

I parked about two blocks west of the start line, and discovered Kim and Stacie and Tressa (and cute baby Riley) were about one block west of the start line. Across the street: Mel (Tall Mom on the Run). We were all together already. We made our way to the Team Will Run for Ice Cram meeting place about one block south. Tully’s, a coffee shop, wasn’t full yet, but everyone in there was pretty much a runner. There was a short line for their real bathrooms, and Kim and I hopped in it.

I still wasn’t really nervous. Excited? Yes. Ready to get running? Yes. Nervous? Eh.

Kim and I chatted, and then I heard my name. Melissa recognized me from this blog, and I felt a little embarrassed, but superhappy to get to know another runner. (So nice to meet you, Melissa!) Then, as I came out of the bathroom, Kim and Stacie and their cronies snapped my photo.

Fantastic.

It was loud and happy in Tully's as everyone got ready and took pictures. It smelled like coffee in there, of course, and coffee makes me feel at home.

Melissa and her hubby (photographer extraordinaire) meeting Mel.

Tressa showing off her camera skillz.

Tressa, baby in tow, was ready to spectate and even made signs! And Alma came to cheer and take pictures, too. I heart spectators. Melissa’s husband also came to cheer and take pictures.

Thanks, Tressa!

Kadie (There She Runs) and her lovely daughter, Al, were running a little late, but they made it and we all took pictures on the stairs in Tully’s -- sorority-style (minus the velvet and pearls).

Back row, L-R: Kadie, Julie, Jamie, Jill
Middle row, L-R: Al, Stacie, me
Front row, L-R: Mel, Kim

After that, we all got our running crap in order. As usual, I was the last one ready and hurrying to get out the door with my group. Tressa was kind enough to lug my check bag (with a dry coat for afterward) in the stroller. I’d strapped on my fuel belt and carried my gross-looking banana (it was in the fridge, okay!) as we walked in the light rain to the start line area only to get in line for one more potty-stop. I started to get a little nervous.

Me, Kim and Mel threaded through the crowd to find a spot near the 2:00 pacer. Jamie joined us and we got to see Carla and Tiffany, too. Kim decided a few days prior to the race to try for a sub-2, and Mel was going to run with her. I’d already explained to them that I needed to run solo.

Back row, L-R: Julie, me and Kim
Middle, L-R: Diana, Jamie and Mel
Front: Jill (on the right) and friend

Mel, who created my sub-2 training plan for me and who has been letting me call her "coach," asked me my plan. “Oh, I think I’ll stay around 9 for the first part and then speed up during the second half,” I said. I told her and Kim that I didn’t think I was going to stay near the 2:00 pacer. “I am going to run my own race,” I said like I knew what I was talking about.

I was calm just before the start, but excited at the same time. Maybe there were a few nerves mixed in there now. And, actually, in the days leading up to the race, I’d been pretty darn nervous. Not the extreme nervousness I felt before my full, but nervous. I didn't want to let everyone down.

So many of you were rooting for me. What if I failed? I know you guys wouldn’t care, but I hate not meeting expectations. Once at the start line, though, I knew I was doing this for myself. I needed to prove to myself that I could set out and achieve that sub-2 I wanted. I also felt confident. Like I've done this whole race thing before. And, I’d worked hard for this race over the past few months, so I knew if I could just to stick to my plan, I might actually make it!

Pretty soon we were counting down and then, just like that, we were off. All of the 10K and half racers start together, so there were a lot of feet to try not to trip over, but the road is nice and wide, so it didn’t take long for the crowd to thin out a little.

Can you see me?

Even though, I'd run it a year before and I'd studied the elevation, I’d forgotten/not realized that the start is a gradual downhill for the first mile or so. I tried to hold back a little. I didn’t want to be lulled into the ease of downhill plus adrenaline-fueled running and then die a mile later. I kept seeing 7’s on my watch, and just kept trying to slow down. But then 2:00 pacer passed me.

What? Why is she in front of me? Is my watch wrong? Is it thrown off by all the other watches?

The average pace for a 1:59 half marathon is about a 9:05 pace. I was running, on average, an 8:24 that first mile. A little secret: I trained for a 1:55 half. I wanted to have a cushion. Just in case. So to be behind the 2:00 pacer…I was freaking a little bit.

I passed her. Then she passed me. I passed her. She passed me. I wondered if Mel and Kim were right behind me. I could see Jamie, a faster runner, a ways ahead. I wasn’t gaining on her and she wasn’t pulling away. I found comfort in being able to see her green hat, white shirt and aqua skirt.

Mile 1: 8:24
Mile 2: 8:09

Do you see me? And the 2:00 pacer?

But I was still battling with the 2:00 pacer. After a few miles of back and forth, though, with my overall average pace staying in the 8:30s, I tried really, really hard to forget the pacer and do as I said I was going to: run my own race! I tried to ignore her and the poor sheep faithfully following her. If you ask me, they were running too fast too soon! But maybe that's how it's done?

Checking my watch around Mile 2 and wondering why the 2:00 pacer is so damn fast!

After the gradual downhill, we turned and went back up, and it's pretty gradual through Mile 3. I saw my friends, which was awesome, but I did have a few negative thoughts through here, I guess: I’m going too fast. This hurts. I want to stop.

But I reminded myself that this is how I always feel at the beginning of a long run. I know myself, and I don’t really get going till Mile 4 or 5.

But there's a really big hill right before you hit Mile 4 and Wright Park. It's about a 100-foot ascent over less than a quarter-mile. Luckily, I saw Alma (The Average Woman’s Running Blog).

At the base of the hill.

It gave me a boost as I started up the hill. Mel had warned me not to kill myself on this hill. There’d be plenty of downhill later to make up the time. I also remembered this hill from last year and how Chelsea and I chased 8-months pregnant Zoe up it. Now, I was working hard for an 11:00 pace at about half-way up, so I slowed to a walk for about 10 seconds to catch my breath, then tackled the rest.

Wright Park is about a one-mile dirt and gravel loop. Or, mud in this case. Once on the dirt (mud) path of the park, I noticed a man running. Not with his wife or anything. Just running in a women’s race. Okay. I passed him. He passed me. I passed him. Argh. One of us just needed to pick a speed. LOL! He passed me. There was a small, but steep hill coming out of the park and I passed him again on that. At the top, I took my first gel (around minute 44). I didn’t need it, but knew I’d regret not taking it. I took a swig of my grape Nuun to wash it down.

We turned out of the park and went down the big hill. I spotted Alma again! And Melissa's hubby!

Before I spotted Melissa's hubby. Me, being focused.

Then, we all turned and went down, down, down. It was still raining lightly and the asphalt was wet. I let gravity work, but I kept it in check and paid attention to my foot placement. I did not want to fall! It was more than a mile of downhill, and my time reflects that.

Mile 3: 8:56
Mile 4: 9:03
Mile 5: 7:42

The downhill ended on Dock Street along the Tacoma waterfront. It was a straight shot to where the 10K and the half split.

I have fond memories of finishing last year's 10K:

Since I’ve also run the 5K before, and it starts and ends about where the finish line is, I knew I would have to go up over an overpass while the 10K-ers got to split off for the finish chute.

I knew this.

Yet I still didn’t know why everyone was running so fast for the first half of a half marathon. A woman I suspect was a little older than me was really pushing it, and I did not want her to beat me. I was right next to her when we got to the split...and she turned and went right into the 10K chute.

Crap!

A lot of people must’ve been running the 10K because I was suddenly alone except for a couple women a little bit up in front of me. By the way, I had not seen the 2:00 pacer in a while. I knew she was behind me, but I wasn't sure how close.

I still felt like maybe my watch was wrong or maybe I was off in my calculations. Maybe I was behind schedule!

I’d had a taste of the second half of the course -- the flat out-and-back portion of the race -- during the Santa Runs Tacoma 5K in 2010. There’s basically one more overpass and a hill, and then it’s just flat and straight for about three miles out (and three point two miles back). It’s along the water, though, which is nice. So I had that going for me.

Mile 6: 8:26
Mile 7: 8:36

I just kept trucking along, dodging rain puddles, occasionally glancing at my watch to make sure I was still running on pace. I NEVER SAW A 9. Not since the big hill at Mile 4. I was pretty freakin’ amazed, that’s for sure. I’ve done speed workouts totally up to 6 miles and had a nice 8:xx average, but NEVER have I looked at my watch and saw an average pace of 8:30-8:40 around Mile 9, 10…

Mile 8: 8:47
Mile 9: 8:50

There was a young woman in front of me for a while in a cute black-and-white tie-dyed tank, black capris and a white-and-purple running hat that totally looked like Zoe. I preteneded she was my running buddy and I tried to catch her, but she was too fast. (I followed about 20 yards behind her for a couple miles until she took off around Mile 11 and I never saw the back of her again.)

I was basically by myself from Miles 7-10.5. I could see people up ahead, but there was nobody around me. I kept waiting, waiting, waiting to see the leaders coming back, but it seemed like FOREVER until I spotted them. It was probably around Mile 9. There are very few spectators along the part of the course because the roads are mostly closed for the race.

But on the back portion, I got to see all my friends, and the 2:00 pacer (who was farther than I thought behind me - I did a little happy dance in my head). I took a gel around Mile 10.

Mile 10: 8:38
Mile 11: 8:46

It was around Mile 11 that things started to get real. I was really going to do this sub-2 thing. But I was a little tired. I wanted to keep up the effort, though. I saw a "No Cruising" sign, laughed, and tried to pick up the pace.

Mile 12: 8:53

Only about a mile left! I just kept thinking if I could run on one hour of sleep at Hood to Coast, then I could do THIS. Only about 8-9 minutes of running left!

Up, up an overpass. I knew the homestretch was on the other side! Downhill, I saw Jill at the turn to the chute. I was getting excited and trying not to runaway on the downhill.

And then I was running through screaming people and crossing the mat!

Mile 13: 8:49
.1: 7:14 pace

Thank you to Melissa's hubs for this pic.
It really reflects how happy I was.

I stopped running, wobbled over to the man cutting the chips off our shoes, then shuffled to the cute gold medals, the space blanket lady, and someone handed me a water. Jill and Jamie found me. Jamie got an amazing sub-1:50 PR! Sweaty hugs, then we found spots to cheer in the rest of our team! It seems like everyone had an amazing race!

Me and Jamie.

Alma, Jamie, Julie, me and Jill.

Coach Mel, Kim and me.

The best thing about this race, other than the friends and fun, and the amazing PR of 1:52:19!!!!!, was that it rekindled my love of running. Thank goodness!

The End.

Hood to Coast Relay Video

2011-09-20T18:02:00.000-07:00

I'm working on my You Go Girl recap, but meantime the video Nuun made for the Hood to Coast Relay is ready to share! See it HERE or just click "play" below.

Don't forget that you have until the end of this month to purchase Nuun at 25% off with the code NUUNPLATUUN.

And,if you love grape (who doesn't?), check this out: In October, 15% of all purchases of the purple-cap Nuun, TNT tee shirts, and TNT bottles will go right back to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and their Team In Training program. Look for the purple caps on our grape Nuun tubes in October. Can't wait till then to hydrate for a cause? Get a 4-pack of purple-cap grape on our webstore for only $20, RIGHT NOW!

Half PR: Sub-2 Baby, Yeah!

2011-09-18T15:42:00.000-07:00

Mini recap of the You Go Girl! Half Marathon from my DailyMile page:

Yay! Sub-2 PR accomplished! And in the rain, too! Mini race recap: Before the race, the plan was to stick between a 9- 9:10-min/mile pace at first, and then bust out the mid-8's or so for the second half. BUT the first mile is sort of downhill...and then the 2:00 pacer was WAY fast making me think I was behind for some reason, so when I passed her (again) around the 10K, I just made it my mission in life to stay in front of her. Worked to my advantage, but I felt bad for anyone relying on her. Glad to see her a ways behind me at the turn-around. LOL! I kept speedy Jamie R. in my sights as much as possible today (she had an amazing PR today, too), and let her be my inspiration.

1: 8:24 (trying not to let the downhill and the adrenaline get the best of me too early)
2: 8:09 (oops)
3: 8:56 (smiling as I remembered running with Chelsea and pregnant Zoe here last year)
4: 9:03 (I do believe this was the very steep uphill -- I walked a few steps -- took a gel at top)
5: 7:42 (what goes up, must come down -- wheee! just tried not to get out of control and slip)
6: 8:26 (running hard because people around me were truckin'...then they all turned off at the 10K finish. DUDE)
7: 8:36
8: 8:47 (followed someone who looked just like Zoë A.
9: 8:50 (wondering why the leaders hadn't come back in the opposite direction yet)
10: 8:38 (took another gel)
11: 8:46 (saw a sign that said "no cruising," laughed and tried to step it up)
12: 8:53 (telling myself that if I can run on 1 hour of sleep -- Hood to Coast -- then I've got this)
13: 8:49
.1: 7:14 pace

Had a blast being around my friends before and after, and seeing them on the course. Thank you, Alma and Tressa for coming to cheer! It was great to see you, Jill E., Diana M., Kim R., Stacie D., Carla S., Julie, Jamie, and so many more out on the course!!!

And a special thank you to Coach Mel (Tall Mom) for helping me blow my goal out of the water with her magical sub-2 plan and encouragement

Thank you all so much for all the comments, texts, messages, etc.! Really felt the love!

Feeling Special

2011-09-16T13:17:00.000-07:00

“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, 'What! You too? I thought I was the only one.'" - C.S. Lewis

Feeling very blessed today as I receive "Good luck" texts and messages for my sub-2 attempt Sunday, and one tear-inducing blog post from my Hood to Coast Relay vanmate, Tricia of Endurance Isn't Only Physical. (Read it and the quote will make sense. Haha!) Thank you, everyone! Be back Sunday with an update!

Have I Lost that Running Feeling?

2011-09-14T17:38:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed. I have not been "feelin’ it" lately: running, blogging, being social.

I can’t figure out why, which is annoying. But I’m starting to think I’m actually nervous.

I’m nervous about my sub-2-half attempt on Sunday.

I keep thinking I won’t remember how to run. And if I do remember how to run, will I be able to make my legs go fast? And what if I don’t get my sub-2? Then I have to start all over again with the whole speed training and stuff. I don’t want to. I think I want to take a distance-running break this fall. I’m looking forward to 5 and 10Ks. I’m looking forward to running just for the health of it.

I’m also nervous about what my running life will be like after Sunday.

Someone asked me recently who/what I am running for. Am I running for myself or just to have something to write about on this blog?

I started this blog to keep myself motivated to run. Now, while it’s very encouraging and motivating to have this blogging community, I don’t necessarily need it anymore to get me running. No offense. I just know how to get my behind out of the door.

But why am I getting out of the door? Well…I enjoy running, for one. But, also for the health benefits and to clear my mind. Then, of course, there is the social side: the friendships, both on- and off-line. These are all very selfish things, I suppose, but I’m only human. And I do believe they make me a better person overall. I also don’t know if I would’ve discovered all this if it weren’t for this blog.

But I’m wondering if my journey is over after Sunday’s race. What big goal do I have to reach for, and write about, now? I already fulfilled my marathon dream in June, which is what this whole blog was focused on. I would like to run another marathon, but I promised I would wait for at least a couple of years because the training really took too much time away from my family.

And if I do decide on a goal, do I really need to write about it all the time?

Today, I had a short run on the schedule. I was nervous for 3 miles. Before I left to run, I almost felt as if my legs might just freeze up and refuse to go. So I decided I would just relax and think about things during the run. I would meditate on what I’m running for.

As I took my first few steps of Mile 1, I realized I had not forgotten how to run. My legs were almost machine-like, pushing and pulling me over the sidewalk. My pace: low 9’s. I concentrated on thinking, even though what ducked in and out of my brain varied from “I think there’s a bug in my mouth” to “why do I run?”

I picked it up a little for Mile 2, eager to test my speed. My pace, now in the mid- or low-8’s, felt comfortable. My rhythm was sturdy. Strong even. But I wasn’t thinking about “why I run” anymore. I wasn’t thinking about “my next big goal” or this blog. There was only one thing on my mind:

“I’m going to kill it Sunday.”

I guess I am feelin’ it. I’ll just have think about all that other stuff on Monday.

The Only Prescription for Taper Madness

2011-09-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Is a race.

I only have 8 miles to run between now and Sunday when I plan to PR the crap out of the You Go Girl Half Marathon. I feel confident and I'm superstoked about the weather.

Buuuut...I am noticing signs of the so-called taper madness.

I've gained weight. Why? I can't stop eating.
My left shin is "twinge-y."
I have no desire to run.
I would sleep in every day if the world let me.

But other than that, I'm ready to go!

What are your cures for taper madness?

Three Things Thursday: Inspiration

2011-09-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

1. Everyone who has run knows that its most important value is in removing tension and allowing a release from whatever other cares the day may bring. ~Jimmy Carter

2. There are as many reasons for running as there are days in the year, years in my life. But mostly I run because I am an animal and a child, an artist and a saint. So, too, are you. Find your own play, your own self-renewing compulsion, and you will become the person you are meant to be. ~George Sheehan

3. Jogging is very beneficial. It's good for your legs and your feet. It's also very good for the ground. It makes it feel needed. ~Charles Schulz, Peanuts

***

Last long run before my sub-2-half attempt coming up on Saturday, then it's taper week...eek!

Oh, and Dude! Don't forget you can get 25% off Nuun with the promo code NUUNPLATUUN at checkout. Good through the end of September! Shop HERE. (My favorites: Grape, Fruit Punch and Strawberry Lemonade. Hint, hint. JUST KIDDING!)

OKAY! That was FIVE things. Sheesh. What are you, the Three Things Thursday Police?

3 Things I’ve Learned About Running “Fast” and More

2011-09-06T12:05:00.000-07:00

1. Speed is Relative. Compare your new fast times only to your past times. Most of us are not looking to qualify for the Olympics so there is no reason to compare times to other runners out there.
2. Training. You can't get fast overnight. Most "fast" runners don’t start out “fast.” It takes some time, and some work to train your legs to turn over at a faster rate than what they are used to. (It has taken me two years to get to "my fast." Training should include a combination of speed work; long, slow runs; cross-training and rest. You don’t need to run “fast” all the time to get faster.

3. Believe. If you want to run faster, believe you are fast. Think like you are fast.

***

I didn’t do my long run on Saturday this week because we went to Pullman for the first Washington State University football game of the year. It was extra special because Mr. T’s dad was going with us, and T Junior was sooo excited to go. Also, two of my Hood to Coast teammates live in that area, so I got to meet up with them!

Track stars! Me, Coop, Jess (Blonde Ponytail)
and Harmony (Keep On Keeping On).

Okay. Now we are being normal. This is the same track where
I wandered out of my dorm room and ran 5 miles one night when
I was homesick in college.

We met near the track because they had kid activities for Harmony’s kids and my kid. Well, my kid was too scared to go on any of the blow-up toys (bouncy house, obstacle course, slide). Instead, he could’ve stayed at the football-throwing thing all day.

I didn’t get to visit with Harmony and Jess very long, though, because T Junior was tired and cranky (his fault for keeping us all up in the hotel room Friday night – argh). But I got to meet Cooper and see my friends for a few minutes, which was great. Thank you for coming out to see us, Jess! (She wasn’t even going to the game!)

On Sunday, I completed my second to last long run before my half (coming up on Sept. 18). The schedule called for 9 miles with the final 5K at goal pace (8:47). Since my father-in-law is visiting, I didn’t want to tack time onto my run by driving somewhere, so I did my 3-mile neighborhood loop three times.

The loop is actually good practice for the You Go Girl! Half since it has a combination of hills (up and downhill), sidewalk running, road running, and dirt and gravel running. I have not run the YGG 13.1, but I did the 10K last year, so I know at least half of the course.

Zoe (Run, Zoe, Run) and Chelsea (Will Run for Food) last year at You Go Girl.

Last year's You Go Girl was muddy on this section.
Hoping for dry weather this year (but not too hot).

The loops proved easier than I thought they would (as in, I didn’t get bored), and it was nice that they are almost exactly three miles, so I knew how far I had to go. Before the final loop at goal pace, I dropped my handheld off at my house, and I remembered I needed to run a virtual 5K, so I decided to add .1 on to the end of my run.

Mel (Tall Mom on the Run) made me a great plan, and an 8:40ish pace is no longer as tough as it first was. This is my training paying off. This pace isn’t easy, but it’s not so hard that I can’t hold it for a while. I am, however, feeling a bit heavy. The scale says I’m only up a pound and a half, but I have not done any cross training in a couple of weeks, so I will be getting my 30-Day Shred on Tuesday and again Thursday.

Paces:
1: 9:36
2: 9:36
3: 9:28
4: 9:35
5: 9:39
6: 9:41
7: 8:26
8: 8:40
9: 8:27
.1: 0:51 (8:26 pace)

On Monday, I was supposed to run a 4-mile recovery run. But, with my FIL here and the travel over the weekend, I was so tired. I needed to sleep in. I wasn’t sure I’d get to run, but I didn’t let it bother me. Turns out, I did have a chance during T Junior’s nap. I took Bennie with me and set out with the goal of two miles. Not the four I had scheduled, but oh well. I knew taking Bennie would help me stay at a slower pace and take it easy. (Sometimes, I look at my watch too much and want to run faster when I don’t need to.)

We walked and ran, but we didn’t quite make it to two miles (1.8) because of the heat. Once home, Bennie got comfy in his favorite spot: on top of the air-conditioning vent.

Later on, we went to get T Junior some new shoes. He picked out “running” shoes: black NIKEs with neon soles! He also liked a pair of Bratz Dolls sparkly cowgirl boots, but they weren’t available in his size...

Hood to Coast Relay Recap - Part IV (The End)

2011-09-04T20:56:00.000-07:00

Parts I, II and III

I got one hour of sleep. Maybe. I think.

I think it was about 5:45 when I set the alarm for 7. But I "woke up" before the alarm went off on my phone. Why? Well, some inconsiderate a-holes honked their horn and then some people were smoking nearby. Yes, smoking. At a running event.

Anyway, I was just laying there listening to numbers being called when I thought maybe I should see if anyone else is up. I peeked out. Alex (our driver) and Margot (The Faster Bunny) both appeared to be sleeping. I didn't hear any movement from Lisa's (Discovering the Meaning of Stonehenge) direction either. The other girls were in the van.

Lisa took this excellent pic of the scene to the right of us.

It was about 6:45 and I just decided to get up. I went and got in line for the Honey Buckets, and gladly accepted a random roll of TP being passed down the line. I was cold and shivering in my capri sweat pant, light running zip-up jacket and flip-flops. The air smelled like wet weeds and hand sanitizer.

It wasn't long before I saw the girls from the van heading my way. I was relieved I wasn't going to have to wake anyone up. By the time we got back from the potties, the other vanmates were up, and we all hustled to pack away our sleeping bags. Alex and Caitlin folded the tarp, which I was thankful for. I need to say it again, but our teammembers from Nuun were amazing. I don't think either of them complained ever and they were fun and funny and calm, and just made the experience great. So thanks, guys!

We drove the van up closer to the start for Tricia (Endurance Isn't Only Physical). There was a little confusion. Either we were a little late to the handoff or we just barely made it. I was so tired, that my brain was a little -- to use a word I picked up from Alex -- "sketch." (I also learned "totes" from Caitlin, which means "totally" for all us over-30 people.)

It was a little chilly, but now the sun was coming out. Tricia inquired about whether or not she'd be too cold in a long-sleeve shirt and her capri skirt, and I told her that she'd be perfect. In fact, I thought she might get too hot. Thing is...Tricia's from Texas where it hasn't been under 100 degrees since, like, forever. I'm from Seattle where it's barely touched 80.

Her camo outfit from RunningSkirts was supercute; I love the shirt and capri skirt together! Plus, she totally blended in. Stealth Tricia.

Tricia updates our "roadkills." We never did put them all on.

She passed off to Alyssa (Diary of an Average Runner), who was tired but pumped to run.

Go Alyssa!

Then it was Caitlin's turn to kick some asphalt before handing off to me.

I wore my marathon outfit for my final leg.

These last routes were gorgeous -- all on country roads, just passing through fields and by farmhouses or quaint bungalows.

Final Leg (Leg 28)
4.07 Miles
Rated: Easy
35:51
Avg pace: 8:48

As I waited for Caitlin near the chute, Jocelyn (Enthusiastic Runner - the 4th runner from After-Nuun-Delight) said something about the route being all uphill. "Yeah, but it's gradual," I said. It's only a couple hundred feet spread out over four miles. I run a trail like that at home all the time." (Referring to the Cedar River Trail, of course.)

Next thing I knew, Caitlin was handing me the baton (slap bracelet) and I was off.

It didn't take me long to regret what I'd said to Jocelyn. Oops. Not really gradual. I thought about her waiting for Kim L. (Nuun) to come in and hoped when she began running, she wouldn't think I was trying to throw her off or something.

Elevation in green.

Hilly or not. I smiled the entire time. I was happy, and not just because it was my last leg and I felt "human" after only an hour of sleep. The country roads were beautiful and we'd caught up to many teams, so I was passing lots of people. I only got passed by one other person, which was nice.

I went back and forth with a man in a wheelchair, I'd pass him on the uphill, then he'd pass me on the downill...over and over again. He was inspiring. The uphill looked really hard.

The scenery was pastureland or large open yards. A few homeowners had lawn chairs and music going and were enjoying watching the race.

I pushed myself pretty hard, and on a couple of the final uphills, I felt I almost crossed my "puke threshold." I passed off to Margot and I was done. Once I stopped, I felt fine and wanted everyone to get back in the van so we didn't miss Margot at the transition. The traffic was getting worse and worse.

Paces:
1: 8:43
2: 8:50
3: 9:07
4: 8:42
.07: 0:27 (6:53 pace)

We got to the next transition with just a few minutes to spare, and Margot handed off to Lisa.

After a couple miles, Margot hopped out to run with Lisa. Yes. She's nuts. She ran with her for a bit, then hopped back in the van. How did they catch us? Well, traffic was really starting to back up. In fact, eventually we ended up just sitting and sitting and sitting in a back up. We started to get nervous Lisa would pass us and beat us to the transition. We had no cell service, so we had no way of warning Van 2 she was coming!

I offered to "drive," and Alex, who had been driving for a day with only an hour of sleep jumped out and ran a couple of miles to warn Van 2. I was glad he could stretch his legs and was happy to drive -- I drove a bigger van when I was in a vanpool before, so it was no big deal. Also, we were going like 2.

Alex barely made it and was able to warn the next van, we picked up Lisa and both photographers, then made our way to Seaside and the finish line. I couldn't believe it. We were done. It was all over.

We sat in a little traffic, but it wasn't too bad getting to the hotel in Seaside, which was about a block from the finish line/party area. We dropped our stuff in the room, and made our way to the Nuun tent on the beach.

I saw a boxer. (I've seen a boxer at every race except my full, although Chelsea saw one for me, and that counts. This began after my dog, AJ, passed away about a month before my first half.)

We met up with our other Nuunmates, met Bob Foote (the creator of Hood to Coast), found our VIP bracelets and got a beer.

Me, Tricia, Bob Foote, Lisa, Jocelyn,
Kim L., Alanna, and photo-bomb guy.

So we were enjoying our adult beverages, when someone told us our runners were coming and we had to finish our beers quickly. So, we had a chugging contest. Who won? See for yourself.

Oh yeah. Victory. (Alyssa, Lisa and me.)

We were lucky in Van 1. We got to see our teammate XLMIC (Taking It On) at the finish line! We made it in 27 hours and 59 minutes! We celebrated with XLMIC, and then a few minutes later we got to see Megan finish for the other Nuun team! Then we celebrated again!

XLMIC digging hard in the sand! Sadly, my phone died before Megan crossed. :(

I texted Mr. T too many times throughout the night saying we were celebrating. So he knew I'd had a few beers. No food + no sleep + sunshine + beer = a really silly Kerrie. But it was fun. Moms don't get to do this stuff too often.

Both vans of Nuun Platuun! (I almost look as tan as Jess. Almost!)

We hung out on the beach being silly with Nuunmates from all vans. We also got to meet the lovely Amanda from Runningood and her hubs!

Back row, from L-R: Lisa, Alyssa, Tonia, Amanda, Spiderman,
Harmony, me and Tricia.
Front: Waylon (Amanda's husband), Susan and Jess.

Finally, at 11 p.m., we all crashed in our hotel room.

The Hood to Coast Relay was a race like no other. In fact, I'm not sure any other race will be able to live up to this one. I feel lucky that I got to experience it. I'd love to run it every year, but I'm not sure what the odds of that are.

I think I covered the race okay, but maybe I missed something. Anyone have a question about the race? I'd love to answer it.

Okay, so next post will be back to business: sub-2 half training...only a couple weeks till race day!

Hood to Coast Relay Recap - Part III (Losing Stuff)

2011-09-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

The second van exchange was in downtown Portland, underneath the I-5 bridge. There are many bridges in Portland since the Columbia River flows right through the middle of it.

It was dark now and that brought a whole new challenge to the race. Finding things had been difficult before, but now it was just plain ridiculous. I don’t know how many times I said, “Where’s my (insert item here)” over the course of 27 hours and 59 minutes, but it was a lot.

I went ahead and changed into my running clothes at the van exchange. We had some downtime as we waited for our 12th runner, XLMIC (Taking It On), to get to the exchange, so why not? And, because I’m a mom and have no shame anymore, I just changed in the van. I tried to shield myself a little from the people walking around the van, but I just don't care anymore. They weren’t looking at me anyway.

Most of us got ready in the van, actually, and then we made our way over to the Nuun tent to talk to other runners. I had to go to the Honey Buckets even though I’d just been to the restroom at the restaurant. Dark in the port-a-potty -- that was new. (I couldn't find my brand new headlamp. Somehow, I left it out of my bag and I still have not found it at home.) But I'd been in enough Honey Buckets that day. Didn't really need to see anymore. I started to joke that I wanted to visit the port-a-potties at every exchange. “It’ll be my thing. I’ll be known for it.”

Tonia (Racing with Babes) and Susan (Nurse on the Run) from Van 2
and Alyssa from my van at the van exchange.

We got word that XLMIC was getting close, so we made our way toward the chute to watch Tricia (Endurance Isn’t Only Physical) take over for Leg 13.

Tricia with blogger Julie.

As Tricia ran, we made our way to the next exchange. We weren’t supposed to stop on that route, but we ended up stopping…at a railroad crossing. We sat there for a long time. Later, we found out Tricia had actually been stopped there, too, and timed it at 13 minutes!

After the train passed, we saw Tricia and realized she’d been stopped at the crossing. Waaaay ahead of her, we passed Alanna (Running 42KM) from After-NUUN-Delight.

The sparkly skirts from Team Sparkle were a great idea for those girls. They were super easy to spot day and night. And, as we would find out, we could’ve used something like that on our team.

Soon, Tricia was handing off to Alyssa (Diary of an Average Runner), and Alyssa was handing off to Caitlin (of Nuun). I was still using Honey Buckets.

Caitlin had a long leg, so we pulled over to offer her some water. I waited outside in the dark along Highway 30. Runners’ lights bounced by, but I couldn’t really tell who people were. A young woman was approaching and I cheered her on, then realized, “Oh! Caitlin! Water!” I ran behind her for a few feet till she was done with the water, then I ran back to the van.

I hadn’t seen it was her because her headlamp was dull. Tricia had used these amazing Knuckle Lights, so when we saw Caitlin next, we slowed down and I yelled out the window, “DO YOU WANT THE KNUCKLE LIGHTS?!”

She answered: “WHAT THE &%*# IS THIS HILL?!”

I glanced in front of us. Yeah, big hill coming up. But I yelled again, “NO! DO. YOU. WANT. THE. KNUCKLE. LIGHTS?!” She shook her head and we've been laughing about this ever since.

We made our way to the next exchange, where I…you guessed it…used the Honey Buckets again, then got ready near the chute alongside Jocelyn from After-NUUN-Delight.

2nd Leg (Leg 16)
Rated: Easy
4.1 Miles
33:45
Avg pace: 8:15

That Caitlin is quick and she was there in a flash. She passed me the bracelet and I was off once again. It was 12:40 a.m. Saturday morning and I was running as fast as I could along a big, wide section of Highway 30.

It was interesting running at night. I didn’t check my watch much because it was so dark. On the left side of me, there was the occasional passing truck or car, and on the right, I could see when a car drove by, weeds and trees and a drop-off. I borrowed Tricia’s Knuckle Lights and they were awesome. It was still pretty warm out, though, so they got a little sweaty. I was wearing my capri camo skirt from RunningSkirts. Surprisingly, I didn’t overheat in it. The fabric wicked sweat and kept me comfortable.

The hard part about this run was that it felt all uphill and I thought it was supposed to be mostly flat. So, I kept waiting for the flat part, pushing as hard as I could on the uphill. I was passing a lot of people and trying to keep track.

Elevation in green.

Finally, Highway 30 came into a little town with sidewalks and lightposts. I had quite a few roadkills on this route (12) compared to my first leg (only 5). It would’ve been 13. I had a girl in my sights and I was hunting her down. I could feel myself pushing faster and faster. Up ahead, I saw her cross the street at a traffic light as directed by a volunteer. It occurred to me that I may get stopped if I didn’t get there before the light changed, so I pushed even more.

I got there and the other runner wasn’t even all the way across the street yet, but the volunteer stopped me for the light. She stopped me again when I tried to go before it changed (the cars were long gone). Argh! I’d almost had that girl. All in all, the light was maybe only 15-20 seconds, but it felt like FOREVER. Then I thought about how Tricia must’ve felt at that freaking train!

After the light, I pushed it and pushed it. I gave it all I had and was so happy to see the exchange up ahead sooner than I’d thought. I passed the bracelet to Margot (The Faster Bunny) in the chute.

Mile 1: 8:09
Mile 2: 7:59!!!
Mile 3: 8:13
Mile 4: 8:42 (did not stop my watch at the light to make sure I accurately reflected the time)
.09: 40 seconds (7:29 pace)

We tried to stop for Margot during her leg, but we just couldn’t find her. In fact, we almost missed her at the exchange again! Lisa (Discovering the Meaning of Stonehenge) ran from van to Honey Bucket to chute. It was crazy! And sort of exciting!

Lisa’s route took her on some country roads, but we had to take a different way to get to the third van exchange. This is when we started to run into some traffic. The roads were small and there were a lot of cars. It was dark and foggy, but we made it in time. Barely. We had only a few minutes to warn Jess (Blonde Ponytail) that Lisa was on her way!

It was now about 2 a.m. (I think) and we were all exhausted when Van 2 took over at this exchange. I so wanted to sleep. In fact, this exchange had “sleeping fields” – roped off areas for tarps and sleeping bags -- so people could rest. But we needed to get to the next exchange before we could sleep. We were making our way back to the van when we found out that Van 1 of After-NUUN-Delight had lost their van key. It felt hopeless. We were in a huge field. But our van, their van and a lot of nice people sort of spread out to look for it. I made my way over to where the chute was and started looking, but I only had my phone to illuminate the ground and it wasn’t bright enough. I just started asking people to look at the ground.

Five minutes went by, 10 minutes went by. I just didn’t know if we were going to find this key in a huge dark field. I walked over to one woman under a lamppost. “Have you seen a car key?” I asked. She looked down with her headlamp and we both screamed. There it was! “Found it!” I yelled and ran to give it to the other team. They headed for the next van exchange. That was our plan, too, as we didn’t know how traffic would be in the morning and didn’t want to risk missing the handoff from XLMIC at the exchange.

We were all set to go when we realized we didn’t have Margot in the van. A couple of our early runners had been sleeping on and off in the van, so we inquired about Margot, but she’d told them she was going to rest in the front passenger seat. We tried calling her. She’d left her phone in the van. We were missing our Bunny! I started to freak out a little. I was angry that the other van wasn’t there to help us look. But how would they have known we lost a person? See, your mind plays tricks on you when you’ve been up almost 24 hours (and have already run 11 miles). Mostly, though, I was freaking that something horrible had happened to Margot.

But this sleep-deprived state is why Margot had wandered out of the van to find a place to curl up. Luckily, she sort of “woke up” long enough to realize she should tell someone where she was. But, when we did eventually find her, it was obvious she was definitely out of it.

Back in the van, we made our way through Mist, Oregon. Mist certainly lives up to its name. We were driving through actual mist down these narrow and winding country roads. Tree branches hung over us like creepy fingers reaching through clouds. We made good time for about 10 miles or so. But then we came to a stop. And we crawled in a line of traffic for the next 10-13 miles.

Lisa and I were sitting just behind driver, Alex, and navigator, a tired and loopy Caitlin. We tried to sleep, but could not get comfortable. The back of the van was little more successful. But after we stopped, they sort of woke up. Margot, who was super hydrated, had to go. Like NOW. The rules don’t allow going on the side of the road, but we were moving about an inch a minute.

We tried to convince her to hold it. We rolled along slowly in the dark and mist. People were getting out of their cars – they had to go, too. Nobody (not even the Hood to Coast people) knew the traffic would be so bad. One older man, who was so tired his eyes seemed sunken in, appeared out of nowhere in front of our van and we suspected he was a zombie. (These things are funny at 4 a.m., okay?)

Margot couldn’t take it anymore. She grabbed a roll of TP, stuffed it under her shirt and jumped out of the van. “Pretend like you have to puke!” I yelled after her. She disappeared down a dark, misty hillside and around an abandoned farmhouse whose gravel driveway was dimly lit by one lonely lamppost.

“Well that’s the last time we see Margot,” someone said. It was like a scene from a horror film. As we slowly inched past the farmhouse, we all watched for Margot to reappear.

And then there she was back at the van, TP stuffed under her sweatshirt. We all breathed a sigh of relief.

Then we sat. And sat and sat and sat and sat in traffic, watching our “sleeping time” tick away on the clock, and making really stupid jokes about zombies and god-knows-what. Finally, at about 5:30 a.m., we pulled into the van exchange. Alex found us a parking spot way in the back, and those of us who hadn’t braved the abandoned farmhouse, made a beeline for the Honey Buckets.

It was freezing out and all I’d brought was a light long-sleeve zip up and capri sweatpants. We stood in line for the port-a-potties shivering.

Back at the van, Alex (who is awesome – have I mentioned that?) had spread out a giant tarp. Some of us found a seat to lay on in the van, but Alex, me, Lisa and Margot unrolled our sleeping bags on the tarp. The air was cold, but the inside of my sleeping bag warmed up quick.

I looked at my phone: 5:45 a.m. We had no idea what time Van 2 (XLMIC) would be getting to the exchange. We hadn’t had cell service for hours. I set my alarm for 7 a.m. and hoped it’d be early enough. Then I covered my head with my sleeping bag and drifted off to the sound of runners' numbers being yelled in the distance.

To Be Continued…

Hood to Coast Relay Recap - Part II

2011-09-01T06:20:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for Part I.

At 12:30 p.m. on August 26, the countdown ended and the horn sounded. Tricia (Endurance Isn’t Only Physical), from my van (Van 1 of Nuun Platuun), and Alanna (Running 42KM), from Van 1 After-NUUN-Delight, made their way with a pack of interesting runners, including one in a kilt, and one in a speedo and half a Storm Trooper costume.

Tricia and Alanna get going!

We all raced back to the van. We had no idea how long it would take us to get to the next exchange, and we wanted to see Tricia running. It wasn’t long before we spotted Tricia – a girl in camo with the other Nuun photographer riding his bike next to her and filming her.

We slowed traffic to roll alongside her for a bit, cheering and blasting music.

I was sort of jealous of Tricia’s leg since it was such a beautiful view all the way down the mountain. We weren’t allowed to stop on this leg, so we made our way to the first exchange and Alyssa (Diary of an Average Runner) got ready in her fave skirt from Lululemon.

We parked and I went to pee…again. Soon Tricia was there and handing the bracelet off to Alyssa. We weren’t allowed to stop for Alyssa either and so we slowed to cheer her on, but then went to the next exchange. We put Nuun tattoos and people and told them all about the awesome company while Caitlin (from Nuun) began to get ready.

Lisa putting a Nuun tattoo on a member of Road Kilts.

Alex, at some point, asked if we were excited – frenzied with excitement, I believe is what he asked. We agreed, though, that it was more like some sort of pre-frenzy stage.

Caitlin - pre-frenzy.

Caitlin's frenzied face.

While we waited for Alyssa, I visited the Honey Buckets…again. Nervous much? Alyssa powered into the exchange and passed the bracelet to Caitlin.

Alyssa coming into the exchange!

Again, I do not believe we were allowed to stop along Leg 3, so we slowed to cheer and then made our way to the next exchange where I had to go to the Honey Buckets again. I got ready in the van and was nervous. I was trying to find all my pieces (Garmin, shoes, socks, etc.) in my bag and it was hard to find anything even though I packed everything by leg in Ziplocs.

We got to the exchange and hopped out of the van. It was so hot out. The inside of the port-a-potty was almost unbearable. I contemplated running in my sports bra. But I just wasn’t feeling that brave. I felt I’d be OK in my white, light Nike shirt and original-print camo skirt from RunningSkirts.

Each transition had a chute – yellow tape held up by waist-height orange rubber traffic poles. Volunteers manned the transition areas (as well as the parking areas). One volunteer stood up ahead of the chute to spot runners coming. That person usually had a megaphone (or a really loud voice) and yelled out the runner’s number so their teammate would know to get in the chute to get ready. It’s really low-tech, but very effective.

Pretty soon, I heard Nuun Platuun’s number.

“Nine! Eight! One!”

First Leg (Leg 4)
7.19 Miles
Rated: Moderate
My time: 1:03:56
Avg pace: 8:53

Elevation in green from my Garmin.

My stomach lurched and I slipped into the chute. I don’t remember how I got the bracelet on. Caitlin probably put it on my arm. I had my handheld in my right hand. The bracelet was just above my Garmin on my left. My braids flapped behind me under my favorite white Nike hat as I hauled ass away from the exchange and down Highway 26.

I was running the Hood to Coast Relay. Finally.

And I think I was a little bit excited about it because I went out way too fast. I looked down and saw 7:40 or thereabouts several times. It was hard to stop myself, though. The course was downhill all the way. At least that’s what I thought. I remember a couple of uphills, though.

Even though it was downhill, it was also without shade. I’d say there was maybe 100 yards of shade TOTAL over more than 7 miles. And, yes, it was “only” 82 degrees, but I was running next to semi-trucks and cars stopped at stoplights on the blacktop, and I was HOT.

My handheld was filled with Nuun, but I was conserving it – just take a sip here, a sip there – because I didn’t want to run out.

I didn’t bring music with me, and I so wish I had. Hood to Coast runners aren’t allowed to wear headphones, but I could have looped my earbuds around my sports bra.

My route was straight and pretty boring, yet there was a lot to look at, including other runners and all the decorated vans speeding ahead to the next exchange. My favorite belonged to none other than Team Storm Troopers in Speedos. One window said:

Your lack of speed disturbes me.

I laughed about it for a good half-mile. (Star Wars fans will get it.)

But really, all I could think about was how hot I was. Some awesome spectators were sitting in their driveway spraying runners with their garden hose. “Thank you!” I huffed as I ran through the sprinkles. A group of firemen had an aid station and handed out cups of water. I took my hat off and dumped it on my head and down the back of my shirt.

I huffed and puffed in the heat, and I just ran as fast as I could. Suddenly, I saw someone running toward me with a bottle of water and I was like, “That person looks familiar.” Alyssa! She ran alongside me, dumping water on me at my request. She wanted to refill my Nuun bottle, but my sweaty, wet hands couldn’t get it open. “It’s okay,” I said and ran past the van leaving my team behind me.

Brrr! That's cold water, but it was so awesome!

Thank you, Alyssa!

I passed a few runners here and there, and a few passed me. One young woman from Oregon Health and Sciences University slowed down and chatted with me for a bit. It was so nice, but I couldn’t talk much. I was pushing through the heat with everything I had. Remember, Seattle has only had a few days in the 80’s this summer. I was not used to the temperature at all.

But the little conversation had given me a boost and I ran on. Soon, my teammates were there again! This time, I opened my Nuun bottle first and refilled it before having Alyssa douse me with water.

I love my awesome team: Alyssa, me, Margot and Lisa.
Thank you, Tricia, for capturing this. Also,
I look super tall in this picture. :P

The most annoying thing about running along that hot highway, was the hay trucks. They zoomed by with their stacks of alfalfa. Pieces of hay would fly off and stick to me or hit me in the face, and the dry smell of it made me even hotter.

The entire run felt like I was back in high school, in California, running in 100+-degree heat (even though it was low 80’s – it’s all about what you are used to).

The last mile or so was really hard. I was overheating and running with my eyes closed, which I tend to do when I’m really pushing hard. I have to fight to keep them open. Why is that?

I focused on T Junior. How proud he would be of me. Mr. T emailed me a video of him earlier in the day. It was just T Junior saying “Hi, Mommy. Good wuck. I wove you.” But it was really touching and thoughtful, and it kept me going. I just pretended I would be able to get a hug from T Junior at the end of my leg.

And then I started singing one of his kid songs over and over and over, and I almost went nuts! “We really like peanut butter, we’d eat it all day if we could. It’s so very yummy and it fills up your tummy, and it’s so very wonderfully good.” Something like that. Over and over and over.

Thank goodness, I could finally see the exchange! I squinted trying to see Margot. Where is she? What is she wearing? I spotted her, took off the bracelet, held it out and she grabbed it and was gone.

Alex and my van were there with cold water immediately. I dumped it on myself and gasped, but it felt good! I was so happy to be done with that first leg. It was my hardest and it was a relief.

Splits:
Mile 1: 8:16
Mile 2: 8:43
Mile 3: 8:31
Mile 4: 8:43
Mile 5: 9:07
Mile 6: 9:46
Mile 7: 8:58
.19: 1:48 (9:16 pace)

We slowly made our way back to the van, and headed out to chase down Margot (The Faster Bunny). She really is fast and we didn’t plan our stops correctly and almost missed her at the exchange.

Go Margot!

Lisa (Discovering the Meaning of Stonehenge) only had about a minute to collect herself next to the chute before Margot was there!

Margot hands off to Lisa.

Lisa powers through the heat.

Lisa grabbed the bracelet and was off. We piled back in the van and headed for the first van exchange location, slowing down to cheer Lisa on the way. As we understood it, we were not allowed to stop along this portion of the race. It was so hot, though. I felt better, though, knowing she was wearing a fuel belt with two pods of Nuun.

At the van exchange (a Safeway parking lot) we found a parking spot and went to meet up with the other vans. It was fun to see everyone. I wish we would’ve had more time to spend together.

Some of Nuun Platuun Vans 1 and 2.

After a few photos, we went up to the exchange so Jess (Blonde Ponytail) could get the bracelet from Lisa. And Lisa was there shortly. She was so hot and her “war” makeup was melting off her face. We’d all forgotten to bring water up to the exchange, so I ran back to the van and Alex helped me get some really cold water for her. Teammate fail.

Lisa hands off to Van 2 -- Jess!

But now we could relax a little. We had some time to kill before we needed to be at the next van exchange in downtown Portland for our night runs. We filed into the Safeway to cool off and change our clothes in their bathrooms. Thank you, Safeway! All the chocolate milk was sold out, so I got some Hershey’s chocolate shake thing and some bananas. It worked.

We decided to have dinner at the 4th Street Brewing Company in Gresham. Caitlin and I were showing our Washington State University pride and sporting our super-comfy Tommie Copper calf sleeves.

Me and Caitlin in our Cougar gear and Tommie Copper calf sleeves.

I loved the 4th Street Brewing Company in Gresham and totally destroyed a pile of fries, a pickle and a hamburger in seconds, “This is the best burger I’ve ever had!”

To Be Continued...

Hood to Coast Relay Recap - Part I

2011-08-31T20:49:00.000-07:00

It’s Wednesday and I’m starting to feel normal again after one of the most amazing running experiences of my life. This morning, I could more easily keep my eyes open on my drive to work. I even managed a speed workout during my lunch hour. I guess I needed three days to recover after Hood to Coast. Here’s why:

THURSDAY
Thursday was sort of chaotic. I’d stayed up late Wednesday night getting gift bags (er, classy plastic Safeway bags with Christmas tags on them) ready for Team Nuun Platuun. A number of awesome companies donated items to our team, including Moving Comfort, 2Toms, Tommie Copper, RoadID, RunningSkirts, Buildasign.com, GU Energy, Jack Black Skin Care, FlashBrite, Jamba Juice and Jenny Craig.

I had issues on Thursday pulling together all my stuff. I even unpacked and repacked my bag. And, of course, I would find out Friday night that I somehow omitted my headlamp. I had other issues Thursday morning, too, involving technology, laundry and the dogs. I really did my best to keep it together, but I was nearing my breaking point.

I dropped T Junior off at day care at 11 and cried. I’ve only been away from him one other time, and I worry. Mostly, I worry something will happen to me and he won’t have a Mommy. Morbid, but true. Anyway, I had a few more things to do, so I had to suck it up and move on.

Finally, I piled all my crap out onto my front porch and waited. My dear running buddy, Zoë (Run, Zoë, Run) was meeting me for lunch in a location easily accessible to Mel (Tall Mom on the Run). Mel was kind enough to drive her car to Seattle for the weekend so I didn’t have to bring mine. And Zoë was kind enough to get me to Mel.

The lunch was bittersweet since Zoë is going to China for a month, and on Thursday, she wasn’t sure if she’d already be gone by the time we got back. The waitress asked us, “Doing anything exciting this weekend?” We just kind of shook our heads, but then Zoë pointed at me and said, “Well, she’s running the Hood to Coast -- a 200-mile relay.” The waitress was taken aback a little, and then I pointed to Zoë and said, “Oh yeah, and she’s moving to China.” You know, just the usual.

Goober and Zoe.

Mel arrived and we all hung out for a bit, but soon Mel and I were on our way to the hotel in Seattle.

Zoe, me and Mel. I finally took a good self-portrait!

We pulled up to the Silver Cloud just behind another group of bloggers! Some I’d met before, including Jess (Blonde Ponytail), Harmony (Keep On Keeping On) and Tonia (Racing with Babes). I met the other women and we all went in to check into the hotel.

After everyone had congregated in the lobby, we went to decorate the vans. Team Nuun Platuun (NP) is sort of chill, which made van decorating interesting. It took us a while to get going. After-NUUN-Delight’s vans were bright and colorful and they’d brought photos to tape to the vans and had good ideas for magnets from Buildasign.com with all their blog names on them.

Our NP magnets from Buildasign.com looked good, too, but we hadn’t thought about blog names or any of that. Just our team name. Our team seemed so … “whatevs” … while the other team seemed to have a plan. I felt a little like I should’ve gotten more decorating stuff, but my life has been really hectic lately and I didn’t have a lot of time to go to Army surplus stores or think or anything like that. I was barely able to find time to get the paint pens.

Thank you Buildasign.com!

Speaking of which… there was a debate during decorating about whether or not we could use the glass-paint pens on the sides of the vans (and not just the windows). The other team went nuts with the paint all over the vans while we were total rule followers and only drew on the glass. Lisa supplied us with some cool camo netting for the top of the vans. Sadly, it never made it on Van 1. But Van 2 rocked it and it looked awesome!

Front to back: Tonia, Jess, Tricia and Harmony.

I think we were just too busy socializing!

I heart this picture.

Still. I liked our van. Understated military chic.

Like our target practice guy? Jess did an awesome job drawing him.
He was smiling, but we decided to change that.
When you pass someone on the HTC course, you get a "roadkill."

After decorating, we all walked down to Nuun Headquarters – just a couple blocks down the street. Inside, we met all the employees and we introduced ourselves. I was quite excited as there were several Washington State Cougars in the room. I’m a WSU alum and I’m sort of a hard-core fan. I knew Nuun employee Caitlin, also a Cougar, would be in my van, and I’d met her at the Seattle Rock ‘N’ Roll Expo, but I didn’t know that she’s as hard-core of a fan as me. And, Harmony – also a Coug! -- was on Team Nuun Platuun, too! We all made it clear we were Cougs during the introduction, which most people from out-of-town didn’t quite understand, but oh well.

After dinner and raiding the shelves at Nuun, we all did a little gift exchange. Jess, whose husband is a baseball coach at WSU, brought Coug stuff, so she showed me which bag to grab during the exchange!

Back at the hotel, Team Nuun Platuun divvied up all the amazing things companies had donated to us. 2Toms gave us roll-on SportShield and some anti-chafing wipes that look super easy to stash and take along on long runs! Tommie Copper gave us each a pair of calf, ankle, knee and elbow sleeves. RoadID sent us individualized FIXX IDs – necklaces that look like dog tags, which were perfect for our military theme. Mine says: “Captain Obvious. Nuun Platuun. Hood to Coast 2011. ‘Free Your Mind and Your Feet Will Follow.’” Moving Comfort sent us all a bra to try. Jack Black Skin Care sent us a ton of products to try. GU sent us a huge bag of gels. FlashBrite sent us some reflective stickers. Jamba Juice gave us some coconut water to try. And Jenny Craig sent us some oatmeal breakfast squares, which turned out to be perfect pre-run fueling for me. And, of course, RunningSkirts outfitted us in camo! I cannot say thank you enough to these companies (and Nuun, of course) for their generosity!

Van 2's Susan (Nurse on the Run) with her Moving Comfort bra!

Lisa, Tonia, Jess, Tricia and me in our cool camo skirts from RunningSkirts.com!

Afterward, everyone in my room went to bed. Me, Lisa (Discovering the Meaning of Stonehenge) and Emily (Sweat Once a Day) were all leaving with Van 1s in the morning. The plan was to roll out of the hotel at 6. We set our alarms for 5 a.m. Lisa and I stayed awake too long chatting, though, and then I tossed and turned the rest of the night keeping her awake. Finally, 5 a.m. came around and we all got up. I felt like crap. I hadn’t been sleeping well in the days leading up to Thursday and a night of barely any sleep (maybe 3 hours) certainly didn’t help.

FRIDAY
We gathered in the lobby before 6 and took pictures. In NP Van 1 was: me, Tricia (Endurance Isn’t Only Physical), Alyssa (Diary of an Average Runner), Caitlin (Nuun employee), Alex (Nuun employee and driver), Lisa and Margot (The Faster Bunny). We also had Rodrigo, a photographer, in our van for much of the weekend.

Lobby scene.

Van 1 Nuun Platuun: me, Tricia, Caitlin, Alyssa, Alex, Lisa and Margot.
Only half of us got the memo that we were supposed to be acting tough...

Next thing I knew, we were loading up and heading out. Luckily, we stopped for coffee and breakfast at Starbucks. This helped me feel better and my headache (from a too-fluffy pillow and no sleep) eventually went away.

Our awesome van driver, Alex. The only sad part about him...
he's a University of Washington Husky (WSU rivals).

On the way to Oregon, we were each interviewed for a small blog article for Mountain magazine's website. This was super weird for me and I passed the phone off pretty quickly. I’m used to doing interviews, not being interviewed. You can read the story HERE.

Lisa interviewing with Mountain magazine.

See how fresh we look!

The rest of the trip we just goofed off. Soon, we were in Oregon and it wasn’t long until I started seeing runners! We were starting to get close, so I decided I better braid my pigtails. I’ve never done this without a mirror. I ended up taking self-portraits to see if they looked OK. I topped them off with camo ribbon that Lisa brought. We were twinsies!

Me and Lisa.

Before we got up the mountain, we made a quick stop to use the bathroom in a little Alpine-esque town. Only problem: no bathrooms. Finally, we found a really nice bathroom in the Mount Hood Cultural Center and Museum. I donated a dollar as a “thank you.” Back in the van, we made our way up the mountain. Up, up, up. The view was gorgeous. I snapped a picture of a woman running downhill. It looks weird since we were level with the hill.

Tilt your computer screen to the left to get the effect of the hill.
It looks funny because I was level with the road.

We arrived at the start line with only about a half-hour before go-time!

Margot puts Alyssa's war makeup on.

Finding a parking spot was sort of crazy. But it was fun to see all the different decorated vans. I liked this one:

Skiers?

And, this team caught my eye.

That's the Nuun photog shooting Team Storm Troopers in Speedos.

Up at the top, it was hot! It felt hotter than any Seattle weather I’d experienced all year. We've had maybe 2-3 days over 80 degrees.

Tricia, NP Runner 1, was nervous. We met up with After-NUUN-Delight and we all put Nuun tattoos on ourselves and others, and introduced Nuun to other runners. And we were all a bit stunned when a runner from Dead Jocks in a Box came up and said, “Nuun Platuun?”

Caitlin puts the "baton" bracelet on Tricia.

Before the start, I had to pee. This would be my first stop in many, many of the Honey Buckets along the course. Luckily, the lines were reasonably short.

Soon we were all walking to the start line. I had a nervous tummy for Tricia. I kept thinking of that marathon YouTube video: “We’re really doin’ it!” Tricia and Alanna (Running 42KM) from After-NUUN-Delight lined up together.

Alanna and Tricia get ready!

There was a countdown and everyone shook hands, and...

To Be Continued…

Digesting Hood to Coast

2011-08-29T15:45:00.000-07:00

It feels like a dream. Did I really just run in a 200-mile relay?

One thing we kept asking each other, at least in Van 1 of Nuun Platuun, was: "How are we going to write about this?"

I still don't know. I need time to digest, I guess. What I can say is that I will be forever grateful to Nuun for getting us there and to my friend Mel (Tall Mom on the Run) for coming up with the idea and pitching it to them. I owe this adventure to them.

Nuun Platuun was awesome, BTW! We finished in 27 hours and 59 minutes. Our overall pace was 8:24. That was 10th out of 40 teams in the Women's Open Division (and 312th out of 1,268 teams!!!!). After-Nuun-Delight also did amazing! They finished in 28 hours and 12 minutes, and were fourth out of 10 in the Women's Corporate Division.

Here are a just few pictures:

Team Nuun Platuun: Lisa, Tonia (Racing with Babes), Jess (Blonde Ponytail),
Tricia and me in our awesome camo from RunningSkirts.com!

Van 1 of Nuun Platuun, from left: Margot (The Faster Bunny),
Tricia (Endurance Isn't Only Physical), Lisa (Discovering the Meaning of Stonehenge),
Alyssa (Diary of an Average Runner) and me. Not pictured: Nuun employee Caitlin.

Caitlin gives Tricia (runner 1) our "baton."

At the start line area.

I saw the inside of a lot of these...

The finish area in Seaside: Me, Tricia, Hood to Coast founder Bob Foote,
Lisa, Jocelyn (Enthusiastic Runner), Nuun employee Kim L. and Alanna (Running 42KM).

Other reading:
On the way to Oregon, Van 1 of Nuun Platuun did an interview with Mountain magazine. It was odd to be on the other side of an interview. I felt totally awkward. I'm used to asking the questions, not answering them! Read the blog post HERE.