Chilly Half Marathon Training: Day 24

I bet you thought I feel off my training.  Well, I did a bit, but it was because I got sick.  I caught a nasty cold that knocked me out.  It last about a week and half.  The other part of the two weeks I missed was because I let Swim Academy take over my life again.  I'm feeling better and Swim Academy is done until after the first of the year.

I went out for what was supposed to be 5 miles.  It ended up being under 2 miles.  The cold air and my lungs did not mix.  About 10 years ago I had whopping cough and it damaged my lungs.  While the running has really strengthened them quiet a bit, sometimes the cold causes bad coughing fits.  That's what happened this morning.  At least I got out and ran though.  I wasn't happy about the coughing though.

Tomorrow I'm in the gym.  Friday I have a run scheduled and Sunday it's a long run.  I am really enjoying running in the snow.  I just had to get over that cold.  88 days until my race!  Let's do this!

Chilly Half Marathon Training: Day 8 Rest Day

Today is my rest day.  I'm kind of glad as my legs need a day to recover some.  After dropping James off at school, River and I headed out for a walk.  It was snowing and I had to pry River off the couch.  She is not a fan of the snow.  She pouted almost the whole walk. 

I enjoyed the walk though.  The snow was the big fluffy kind.  It was cold, but it wasn't bitter cold.  I enjoyed walking through all the fluffy snow.  Now Wednesday when I go for my run I will be upset if people haven't shoveled. 

Here we are after our walk today.  River was ready to go inside and have her lunch.

River has been curled up on the couch ever since we got back.  Normally she wants to go out again, but she keeps burying her face every time I stand up.  She really hates winter.

Tomorrow I'm in the gym doing speed work and weights.  I'm looking forward to it.  I have enjoyed my rest day, but I'm ready to be back at it!

Chilly Half Marathon Training: Day 7 The Hanukkah Hustle

Today puts me at the end of the first week of training.  It's been a good week.  To end it, I ran the Hanukkah Hustle 5k.  I really enjoy this race as it's small and I love the course.  I like watching the residents of the assisted living facility get out and enjoy time with family and the volunteers.  Here we are before the race.

It was starting to snow as we headed to the start line.  It was a pretty fluffy snow too.  I reminded Mike that he should be thankful that I was only doing the 5k and not the 10k.  He didn't have to stand outside as long.  I know he went inside to stay warm.  He knows my times and knows when to be out at the finish line.  And he was!  Here I am crossing the finish line.

The race itself was okay.  My legs were really tired from my runs this past week.  I knew I would be slow, but I was fine with that.  It took me awhile to get my legs stretched out and feeling good.  By that point I was almost at the finish line.  The finish for this race is uphill.  I got to the hill and kept repeating, "Up the hill. Across the line."  It got me there.  It's not the hill was particularly big or steep, it was just my legs were that tired.  I got my finisher's medal and we headed inside for hot dogs, latkes, and to check results.

I didn't think I had gone fast enough to place, but I was surprised that I got 3rd in my age group!  We stayed for the awards.  The top 3 in each age group got Star of David pendants.  They were pretty cool!

Here's a picture of both my finisher's medal and my age group pendant.

Tomorrow is my rest day.  I will just take River for a long walk.  Tuesday I'm in the gym for speed work and weights, Wednesday it's a 4 mile run, Thursday cross training and weights, and Friday is my long run.  Saturday is my rest day and Sunday I have a swim meet so I can't run then.  I'm ready to tackle the 2nd week of training!

Chilly Half Marathon Training: Day 6

I have to say that I did beg off my workout today.  I know, the shame of it!  I had all my gym stuff with me and on my way home drove by the gym.  It was so busy I just didn't want to go in at all.  There are 2 reasons for this.  One, I hate crowds and two I still don't like people watching me workout.  I know they aren't looking at me, but I feel so uncomfortable that I just couldn't bring myself to go in and workout.  I feel like all those people that are in so much better shape than I am are judging what I'm doing.  I hate feeling like that, but I do.  Heck, it took me over a year to be able to run on main roads where lots of people would see me.  The whole day it was on my mind though.  I have to get over that and just go and do it.

Mike and I did go to St. Jacobs and had a good time shopping in all the little shops.  We got our Christmas shopping almost done.  It was so nice.  We ate at a cozy little restaurant and got to sit by the fire.

It was a nice afternoon and it's getting me in the Christmas spirit.  I still won't put up my decorations until after Thanksgiving (American Thanksgiving).  I'm looking forward to doing that in a few weeks.

Tomorrow I have my race so I will get a 5k run in and then I will walk River when we get home.  WEek one is almost done!  I have done okay up until today.  Back on track tomorrow!

Chilly Half Marathon Training: Day 5

Brrrrr.....I knew we were supposed to get flurries, but we woke up to some real snow this morning.  It wasn't a whole lot, but enough to cause over 100 accidents in our area before 10am.  The whole time I'm getting James ready for school I had to keep motivating myself to run.  I put on my sports bra and running shirt to take him to school.  That means I was halfway dressed when I got back.

Once I got back, I changed into my running tights and still had to talk myself into getting out the door.  River couldn't go with me so I was running solo today.  Plus the route I had to take was hilly and not the slow rolling kind.

I did get out the door.  The first 2 miles were on the shoulder of the road.  Luckily it's a wide shoulder or I would have planned a different route.  The little bit of snow we got made a huge difference in my running though.  My legs were tired by the time I got to the first steep hill.  I got about halfway up and had to walk.  I was upset, but I can't really beat myself up.  The other steep hills were like that too. 

My legs were really tired today.  The whole run they were just tired.  No soreness though so I was happy for that.  The last 2 miles felt really good.  I don't know if it was because it was either downhill or flat or because I knew I was close to home or because I finally hit my groove.  Whatever it was I felt great!

Since River couldn't go with me, I had to get her out for a walk when I got home.  I quickly changed my socks, shoes and coat and went out again with her.  It made for a nice 1.5 mile cool down.  I think it will help my legs recover better.

I did take this picture after my run and quick change as we were walking.  I was tired!

River didn't seem to keen on walking today.  I think she is still tired from her day at doggy daycare.  She also is not a huge fan of the snow.  She pouts the whole time.

Tomorrow I'm hitting the gym after swim practice for cross training and weights and Sunday I have my race.  So far my training is going well.  I feel good and I know I will get stronger everyday.

Chilly Half Marathon Training: Day 4

So today I was supposed to go to the gym for cross training and weights.  Mike had to go into work early and I had to be at the pool all day so I had to switch my rest day from Saturday to today.  I'm feeling a bit grumpy and sad about it too.

I can tell I need to do something active because I'm antsy and restless.  I can't even walk the dogs since I'm at the pool working on my computer.  I did get the work done so tomorrow when I'm out for my long run I won't have to feel guilty about not working at home.

Last night I had my first Mini Meet since taking over the Swim Academy.  It went well.  We had 97 swimmers last night which I think was a pretty good turn out.  We even had a lot of private lessons come to compete.  Tonight is our 2nd Mini Meet so I hope we have a great turn out for it!

It's snowing today.  Just flurries and it's dusting the ground, but it's snow.  Tomorrow will be a cold run, but once we get moving River and I are fine.  It will be cold on Sunday too for the race.  I just have to run harder so I won't freeze.

The rest of the training week looks like this: Friday 10k run, Saturday cross training and upper body weights, Sunday 5k race.  It's a good first week of training.  I'm feeling good and strong this week.  I know the next 15 weeks will be great!

Chilly Half Marathon Training: Day 3

I know some people may not find my training exciting, but it helps me stay accountable and helps me organize my thoughts since running is my stress relief and my way of fighting depression.

Today was a 4 mile run.  It was cold and windy.  Such a big change from the weather yesterday!  I'm not going to lie, it would have been easy to stay inside and go back to bed.  I had to get River out for a walk no matter what so I figured I should just do my run.

The first 5k felt great!  I was moving at a good pace and I felt relaxed.  Then my stomach started to revolt against me.  I was hoping this whole thing with the iron was settled.  Guess not.  River had to stop to go to the bathroom so I took some time to stretch.  That helped.  The other thing I'm going to try is taking my iron pill at night before bed.  I'm hoping it will be through my system by the time I run in the morning.  I'll know Friday if it works.

I was afraid that my legs would be sore after lifting weights yesterday, but they felt pretty good.  They were tired, but not sore.  River loved running in the cooler weather.  She was all smiles.  When we got home she was ready for her lunch though.  As you can see, she was not amused by our selfie.

I'm so glad I did this run.  I could feel myself losing my stress as I ran.  I took over the swim school part of the team I coach and we have our first mini meet tonight.  I'm nervous about how it will go.  I know it's out of my hands as I've done everything I can to get ready for it, but I'm still stressing about it. 

I'm also worrying about Christmas.  I've gotten almost all my shopping done so I can just do the baking in December.  I have ordered some really cute shirts from Snappy Kid (www.snappykid.com) and can't wait for them to get here!  I love that sight!  It has great geeky shirts for James and my neices and nephews.  I thought I was finished and then I saw this awesome Minion shirt that I got for James for Christmas.  He will love it!!!!!!

Tomorrow I'm in the gym for cross training and weights and Friday it's my long run.  Week one is almost in the books!  March 1st will be here before I know it!

Chilly Half Marathon Training: Day 2

This morning it was speed work and weights.  I was at the gym bright and early.  I hate the treadmill, but for speed work I can tolerate it.  I did the following:

5 minutes warm-up
10 rounds of 1 minute at my long run pace
                    45 seconds at my 5k pace
                    15 seconds at a full sprint
5 minutes cool down

I then did leg weights.  It's been since July that I've lifted weights.  I know I'm going to feel it tomorrow on my run. 

It felt good to be back in the gym and pushing myself like that.  I was tired and I was dripping because I ran inside, but I felt great!

 

This morning I got to go watch James narrate as his school's Remembrance Day assembly.  He did a great job! He was so excited to be the only 4th grader to get asked to do this.  It was a nice assembly and all the kids did a great job!

I then got to spend the rest of the day sitting at a desk figuring out coaching assignments for the next session of Swim Academy.  Whew...that's tough!

Tomorrow will be Day 3 and River and I are out for a 4 mile run.  Thursday morning I'm back in the gym for some cross training and weights and Friday is my long run.  Once I get in the swing of things, it won't be so hard for me to get out the door.

Day 2 is done!

Chilly Half Marathon Training: Day 1

Yes, I'm starting my training for my 3rd half marathon.  This one will be on March 1st.  I have to train all through the winter.  I was disappointed that I had to drop out of the Toronto Waterfront Half.  I want to run this one and I want to run it well. 

I've been struggling for several months with motivation and health issues.  I think I've finally got everything under control and am ready and motivated to get this done!  I have my goal and I have my plan.  Mike and James are helping me by keeping me accountable and River is ready to train with me for as long as she can.  Once the snow hits, she won't be able to run with me.  It won't be safe for either one of us.

Mondays will end up being my rest days, but I wanted to kick off the training with a short run.  River and I did just under 2 miles.  Nice and easy and relaxed.  It felt nice and River enjoyed the cooler weather to run.

Here we are after our run this morning.

Tomorrow I'm back in the gym for speed work and weight training.  I'm up early so I can be back to get James ready for school.  I've been sleeping better so I'm hoping that I can get up and get out the door.

Wednesday I have a 4 mile run, Thursday it's the bike and weights, Friday 10k run, Saturday rest and Sunday I run a 5k race.  River is doing the run with me on Wednesday and Friday.  She will have a blast doing it too!

I have to just keep reminding myself to just get out the door.  Once I'm out and going, I feel great.  I just have to get out the door.  That's the hardest part some days.

100 Miles In August Challenge: Mile 11

Last week was kind of a blur.  It feels like I didn't do a thing, yet I was busy the whole week.  The weekend I ended up with a stomach bug of some sort.  I got some much needed rest though.

I went out for a run on Saturday with River.  It felt so good!  The first 20 minutes were nice and easy.  I was able to really feel great running for the first time in awhile.  Then my stomach started acting up.  I figured it was because I needed some water.  River and I stopped so I could give her some water too.  We got started again and my stomach was in full revolt mode.  Luckily we were near the park and I made it to the bathroom.  I had to call Mike to come get me.  I ended up getting a 5k in, but it was not a fun 5k.  Sunday I took it easy.  Yesterday I was still feeling a bit queasy so I opted to take River hiking through the trails at Huron Park.  We did 5k and I felt better.  I still ended up taking a nap in the afternoon.

This morning I felt pretty good so River and I went for a run.  I wanted to do the 5 miles I started on Saturday, but 10 minutes in I knew that wasn't happening.  I ended up doing 5k, but it was more due to the humidity rather than my stomach.  Tomorrow should be better.  I'm planning on doing some pace/speed work with James.  He likes doing that stuff.

I started this 100 miles in August challenge.  You run/walk 100 miles in the month of August.  I am excited about this challenge.  I know some of miles will come from walking the dogs, but I want the bulk of them to come from running.  This is the kick in the pants I need to stay on track with my half marathon training.  River is going to do a lot of the miles with me as well.  She does love her runs.

Today our run ended in a full 100 meter sprint because she had to chase down the garbage truck.  She's such a goofy girl.  She doesn't like buses or trucks and feels the need to chase them away.  The drivers always laugh at her.  I would to if she she weren't attached to me.

Tomorrow will be speed work.  James will like that.  Then we will hit his craft class and the comic book store for new comic book day!  Should be a fun week!

Rainy Days and Mondays

Today it's both, but they are  NOT getting me down!  Last night we had a lot of rain.  I knew it would be a wet morning.  When I got up around 6:30, it was pouring rain.  I thought there was no way I was running in that mess.  I figured I would just go to the gym. I got up and started getting ready, but remembered that Mike had to take my car today since his truck is in the shop.  No gym for me.  Then I realized that I had to take River for a walk rain or no rain.  After much back and forth in my head, I put my running clothes on and headed out the door with River. 

I love running in the rain.  I really do.  I don't know why I had to talk myself into this.  I like running in the rain for many reasons.  One, it's quiet and the air is fresh.  You aren't going to run into many people.  I love the smell of the air during a rain storm.  Two, I love running though the puddles.  When you're little you are always told not to splash, but I get to splash all I want on my runs with River.  We got out of our way to run though puddles.  Finally, the rain keeps you cool.  It's nice to feel the splash of cool water on your hot face.

River was all smiles too.  She's not one that likes the rain and will usually pout, but today she was game and happy to be running.  I am glad I got out the door this morning for run rather than a walk.

For the workout today, I did do a run walk simply because I took a hilly route and knew my legs just weren't quite ready for a straight run.  I did the following intervals:

10 minute run/2 minute walk

10 minute run/1 minute walk

10 minute run/2 minute walk

3 minute run to finish

I did the 1 minute walk in the middle because the walk interval came up halfway up a hill.  At the 1 minute mark I was at the top and wasn't going to walk down a hill.  My legs were sore at the bottom because it's a steeper hill.

I did take this weekend off.   I just couldn't get going.  I don't know what the deal was.  I have to make sure this coming weekend I'm up and out the door.  James will be here so that will help.

Tomorrow will be a gym day.  I'm doing speed intervals and weights.  Wednesday I have James with me so it will be shorter run with intervals.  I may make Wednesday a double and do a longer run in the evening.  Thursday will be run as I have to switch my 2nd gym day to Friday since I have a meeting that day.  Saturday will be a mid-distance run and Sunday my long run.  

It's been a slow start to the this half marathon training, but I'm getting there.  I will be ready by October!

Lord Of the Bling 10k Wrap-up

This week James and I have been running in a virtual race.  Last year we stumbled on this great group called Nerd Herd Running and signed up for their racing series.  They are virtual races with different geeky themes.  Right up our alley!  We had a such a good time doing it, we signed up again this year.  We are on our second race of the trilogy. 

James initially had a goal of running the 10k straight.  That fell through when he didn't train so we broke it down over the week.  Today we finished our 10k.  We went to Huron Park near us and decided to do a trail run.  We also were making our video for the contest they were running along with the 10k run. 

With a name like Lord of the Bling, you can guess what geek theme the race was.  Lord of the Rings of course!  The video contest was a You Shall Not Pass video.  We used River as our monster and I was the runner trying to pass James who was Gandalf.   Here is our resulting video.

 

 We had a good time doing it too!  It took several takes and some editing, but we got it!

 Today we did the following intervals:

5 rounds of 3 minutes run/1 minute walk

4 rounds of 4 minutes run/1 minute walk

We did this all on trails.  That is something I'm not used to , but James is.  He helped me a lot by talking me through it.  It was nice to run in the shade almost the whole time though.  We didn't like the mosquitoes at all!  They could have stayed in hiding.

James loved doing this run and can't wait to get his medals in October for the series.  We have one more in the series and that's in October.  That one is a 5k or half-marathon.  James will be doing the 5k option.  I have to look at the dates, but I may be doing the half-marathon if it's at the same time as the half I'm already running.

We also took a couple of before and after pictures today.

Tomorrow my only running partner will be River.  We are planning a 4-5 mile run in the morning and on Sunday I have a long 8 mile run planned.  It feels so good to be back on track!  James will be running with me on Wednesday next week.  It will be nice to have him back with me after having several days of him not running with me.

I Think I've Found My New Cross Training

It's hard to believe that today is Wednesday!  James and I have been busy little bees today.  We got up this morning bright and early for our run.  We both were secretly hoping it would be raining so we could run in the rain, but it wasn't.  It was cooler this morning though.  We got River hooked up, our water bottles on and headed out.  Today our run went like this:

 2 Rounds 2 minutes run/1 minute walk

5 Rounds 3 minutes run/1 minute walk

2 Rounds 4 minutes run/1 minute walk

It was a great run!  James smiled the whole way.  He did much better at keeping up with River and myself.  He had a great time!  I'm feeling like I'm back to myself so I'm doing a double tomorrow.  I'm getting up early to run with River and then I'm going to the gym to do the bike and weights.  I won't do a long run, but I just want to see how I feel.

We did our 30 minute clean/purge and then he went to Michael's for his craft class.  I found a quiet corner of the store to read since we can't leave the store while he's in class.  I have to sit and read otherwise I will spend way too much money and we need to save for our trip to Indiana and for Fan Expo in August.

We had some lunch and did another quick purge to finish filling the Salvation Army boxes.  Then it was off to drop our boxes off.  Afterwards we went to the park.  Here is where I found my new cross training. 

I know playing on a playground is good for your motor skills both fine and gross.  I play with James when we go.  This playground has a lot of balance type things though.  My core is really sore right now!  I balanced (or tried to) on this really wobbly wake board thingy and had a tough time doing it.  I played on the monkey bars and some of the other wobbly toys.  It was a lot of fun and James got me trying to do it all.

I'm thinking a few trips to the park in the mornings might help my core. I've been trying to figure out how to make myself do more core work.  I'm just to lazy to just do it, but if it's fun like this I just may be on board.

So tomorrow I'm doing a double.  Friday James and I are running and make our video for the Lord of the Bling Contest.  Saturday I'm doing speed work and weights in the gym.  Sunday is my long run.  Here we go!

Warrior Dash, Piano Contest, and Back To Training

This past weekend I ran the Warrior Dash for the 4th year in a row.  I have a love/hate relationship with this race.  I love running and trying to conquer the obstacles, but before the race I have my moment of what the heck am I doing???????  This year was no different.  I was super nervous at the starting line and when I started out.  Once I got going though, I was fine.

It seemed that the whole race was uphill this year.  Oh my goodness was it uphill!!!!!  Some hills were steeper than others, but there were tons of hills!  The obstacles were lot more balanced this year.  Last year it seemed like there were a lot of climbing and this year it was a good balance.  I did have to go around one of them and another I got up to the top and couldn't get over it so had to climb back down.  And did I mention the hills??????

I am very proud that once again I did climb over the cargo net obstacle.  I always get to the top and have to pause and figure out how to get over the top to climb back down, but I manage to do it without killing myself.  The mud wasn't very thick this year either.  That was a blessing.  I didn't get stuck.

Here is a before and after picture of me.

We had a great time afterwards eating turkey legs and drinking a beer.  James had a big beaver tail.  We listened to a great band and enjoyed being outside in the beautiful weather.  It was a fun day!

Sunday we spent the day in Toronto at James' piano contest.  He had two performances.  The first one he got a Superior rating.  He was a little disappointed, but he wasn't expecting to place with that song.  His second performance he did really well.  He made one mistake and after he was done, looked like he was going to cry.  When they announced the winners he ended up getting 2nd place!  He was so excited!  I wish I would have had a picture of his face.

Yesterday we both were lazy so we took it as a rest day.  Today we were back at our training.  James, River and I were up early since it was supposed to get hot and humid today.  We did 5 rounds of 2 minutes run/1 minute walk and 4 rounds of 3 minutes run/1 minute walk.  James did a much better job today.  He said his new running shoes helped.  Tomorrow we are up early again for a run possibly in the rain.  Friday we are going to Huron Park to do our run because we are doing a special video for a contest that goes along with our virtual run we are doing this week.  It's going to be awesome and funny according to James.  I can't wait to see what he has planned.

I'm looking forward to another great summer day with James tomorrow!

Feeding the Drama Llama

Oh this morning that Drama Llama showed up and James fed it a lot of drama.  He likes running, but some days he doesn't want to put in the effort.  He would rather just run a few steps and then walk for 10 minutes then run a few more steps.  Today was one of those days.  We had moaning and groaning.  He was running like a little old man.  He complained the whole time.  Yet when I asked him if he wanted to stop, he got mad at me.  I don't get 9 year old boys sometimes.

We made it through a 25 minute run/walk, but the Drama Llama was right there with us the whole time.  River was just wanting to run, but she had to wait on James.  She was not a happy dog.  In fact when we got home she was still ready to move.  Usually we get home and she crashes, but not today.

Now to be fair, James did need new running shoes which we got today.  But he could have won an Academy Award for best dramatic actor this morning.  Maybe he was being filmed and that was what he was going for.  Who knows.

The rest of the day went well.  We did our cleaning and our errands.  He went to Michael's for the arts and crafts thing.  We had lunch and then we took all 3 dogs out for a walk.  He wore his new running shoes to start breaking them in.  He and Mulder ran most of the time and there were no complaints. 

I told him that he doesn't have to be the best or the fastest, but if he wants to do this, he has to put in the work and put some honest effort into it.  We call it feeding the Drama Llama because it's easy to remember and to cue him when he's being overly dramatic about anything.  James has that tendency to overreact to everything and blow it all out of proportion. We are trying to teach him not to do that.  He is getting better, but every so often he brings the Drama Llama with him.

We talked about it and he wanted to know what he could do when he's at his mom's and his cousin is watching him to help with his running. I gave a few really easy things and showed him a couple of great Runner's World videos.  He likes the idea of it, but I don't know if he's allowed outside when his mom's not home.  I can understand that.  Next week he's with us and will run 3 days with me.  We are doing the Lord of the Bling virtual run and he's excited about that.  That coupled with the new shoes should help.

I now understand why my parents got frustrated when I would get overly dramatic.  It really is quite a production.

Back In the Gym

It has been almost 5 months since I've been in the gym.  I figured it would be a gong show, but it wasn't that bad.  In my effort to go back to basics I did intervals on the treadmill.  I did make them speed intervals though.  Here is what I did:

3 minutes @ 3.7-4.1

1 minute @ 5.5

3 minutes @ 3.7-4.1

1 minute @ 6.0

3 minutes @ 3.7-4.1

1 minute @ 6.5

3 minutes @ 3.7-4.1

1 minute @ 7.0

3 minutes @ 3.7-4.1

1 minute @ 7.5

5 minute cool down

I like this interval workout.  I think it will be good to do for the next couple of weeks when I do speed intervals in the gym.  I will increase the speed on the 1 minute intervals though.  Next week I wills start at 6.0 and work up to 8.0.  It makes the time go by quickly too.

I also lifted weights for the first time since February.  I didn't lose as much as I thought I would.  I just did legs today and my weight was only 5 pounds lighter on each machine than what it was in February.

It was a quick trip to the gym, but I packed a lot in during that 40 minutes.  I feel pretty good too.

When I got home I didn't even change since I was just going to get the dogs out for their walk.  We did just under 2 miles and the last 7 minutes I got a good upper body workout as they all started to go crazy for some reason.  The first 30 minutes they were picture perfect.  Then something hit them all at once and the crazy was released.  River started barking and stopping every few feet to look for rabbits.  Anya started pulling forward trying to get birds.  Mulder kept wanting to go back to where we had just come so he was pulling behind me.  There was all kind of crazy going on.

Tomorrow morning James will run with me.  We will go 25 minutes doing the run/walk intervals I did yesterday.  1:1 for the first 10 minutes and then 2:1 for the last 15 minutes.  It will help him as well.  Next week we do the Lord of the Bling 10k virtual run.  He's excited.  I think we may break up the 10k over a couple of days though.  He's just not ready for a straight 10k.

Should be a fun morning tomorrow!  Looking forward to it!

Back to Basics

I'm finding that I'm getting frustrated with my running.  I'm not where I want to be due to being hit and miss with my training.  Because I'm not where I want to be, I get frustrated and talk myself out of my runs.  I had to take the weekend and reset my thinking.  I have to go back to the basics and just enjoy the run.

I think I'm setting myself up for failure.  I put to much pressure on myself to get faster, better, stronger and forget why I'm running.  I'm running because I enjoy being outside.  I enjoy the feeling of going far and knowing that I can have my body do that.  I enjoy clearing my mind.  I enjoy the way I feel afterwards.  It's not about times and pace and winning.  It's for me.

Today I went back to the beginning.  I ran for 20 minutes.  I did a run/walk interval.  The first 10 minutes it was a 1:1 and the last 10 minutes it was a 2:1.  It felt good.  River was with me and there was no pressure on myself.  I just enjoyed going fast for the run and recovering on the walk.  I enjoyed the morning.  It was cool and peaceful.  River was excited to be out and running.  She smiled the whole time.  I smiled the whole time.  I felt relaxed and I wasn't putting pressure on myself.  It was fun.

Tomorrow I'm in the gym.  I will do 20 minutes on the treadmill or something else and start back to lifting weights.  Once again, it will be back to basics.  Slow and steady.  I am still going to run the half marathon in October because I enjoy it.  I'm going to do it because I enjoy it.  I'm not going to worry about times or paces or anything like that.  I'm doing it for the pure joy of running.

On a another note, last week I got my new tattoo.  It is really awesome!  Here it is.

It's the TARDIS from Doctor Who.  I love it!  My leg is still sore because I just got in on Thursday, but the run didn't hurt.  I love how detailed it is.  Ben outdid himself once again.  He's an amazing artist!  If you are in the area check him out at Motor City Tattoo in Oshawa.  He does amazing work!

Tomorrow I'm in the gym, Wednesday I will do a 20 minute run again with James, Thursday is another gym day, and Friday I will do do a 25 minute run.  Saturday I'm doing the Warrior Dash.  It's a fun race and I know I'm not going to be first, but I enjoy running it and challenging myself.  It should be a good time.

Sunday James has his piano contest so it's a rest day for me.  Then Monday it's back to easy running.

I think by taking a step back I will be back to where I want to be in a few weeks.  Just have to get back to basics.

The Dirty Dash

What a fun race this is!  It's my 4th year running it and I always love to get down and dirty in the mud pit at the end.   I will be honest though, I'm not much of a trail runner.  I'm always afraid of twisting my ankle and undoing the surgery I had done 14 years ago.  I am such a klutz that walking can sometimes be considered a full contact sport.  Throw in tree roots and low hanging branches and I could be looking at an all expense paid trip to the hospital.   But for this race, I'll suck it up and pick my way through the brush.

James has never been able to run it this race and has been begging to for years.  It always fell on a weekend that he was at his mother's house.  This was his year though.  It was his time to shine according to him.  He knows those trails because he has done Adventure Running at that park.  He had a goal of getting covered head to toe in mud.  He had his friend Jackie running with him.  All bets were off.  It was James vs. the mud in an epic battle.

We started off at a nice pace.  He knew a few people running because of Adventure Running.  Jackie was a trooper after having such a horrible first race experience a few weeks ago.  We pointed out how this race is marshalled and there are signs to show you where to turn and where to go.  The two of them chatted and got into the race more and more as we moved along.

At the 2k mark we entered the woods.  This was when the excitement really started to build.  This meant we were halfway done and that much closer to all the mud.  We got to the first river crossing and they were in heaven.  It was like watching to Labrador Retrievers jump in the water.  They were making sure they stayed in the deep part of the water.  James was up to thighs and Jackie was right behind him.  I was trying to herd them out of the water and back onto the trail.  As we were getting out of the water, James "fell" in the mud.  I He claims it was an accident.  I may buy that the first fall was an accident, but the 2nd and 3rd ones I don't think were accidental. 

Now he was muddy and much happier.  He takes off and is running ahead of us.  I'm hanging back with Jackie to make sure she's okay and not worried about getting lost.  As we are running, I'm teaching them what to do when they need to walk, trail etiquette, and the importance of running in a straight line as a opposed to running like a drunken sailor.  James likes to spend time in Jamesland and forgets that there is world outside of that magical place.  He has to be reminded from time to time.

We hit the next river crossing and they were splashing and having a good time.  I got the question I had been waiting for, "Where is all the mud?"  Then we came to the hill that was all mud.  James fell down on his hands and knees and crawled/rolled/commando crawled up the hill so he could get muddy before the mud pit.  Jackie walked up it laughing and having a good time with James.  I, on the other hand, very slowly used trees and grass to help me up   It was super slippery and I didn't want to take out the people behind me by doing my best imitation of a bowling ball.  Besides, it would have been hard to pick up the split.  We got to the top and it was another 2 minute run until the mud pit.

Once we hit the mud pit all bets were off.  James dove in head first trying to get the award for the muddiest person.  He rolled and crawled throwing mud at me the whole time.  Jackie stayed upright trying to pick her way through while keeping her shoes on her feet.  I, being the seasoned veteran, began crawling.  But I made the fatal mistake of stopping and got stuck.  It took me about 5 minutes to get through the pit and I was weighted down by all the mud that was caked on.

I crossed the finish line and looked back to see where James was.  He was lying in the middle of the mud pit like a slug.  He was stuck.  He got halfway through and got sucked in.  He was trying to get out, but the mud pit wasn't letting him.  So I put on my super hero cape, summoned by super strength and jumped back in to save him.  Let me tell you, it was like the blind leading the blind.  I got stuck again and almost lost both of my shoes.  I managed to get to him and we started pushing and pulling our way to the side where the mud wasn't knee deep.  We got to the side, he got in his feet and managed to make it out and across the finish line.

Covered in mud from head to toe, Mike brought us our towels and change of clothes and we all trudged off the the river for a bath.  I think they liked that just as much as the mud pit.  We got rinsed off in the nice cold stream and headed back for a meal of hamburgers, hot dogs, fruit, and stale bagels. 

We had  great time at this race and James and Jackie are already planning their method of attack for next year.  I'm glad James got to finally run it and Jackie got to see that running races can be fun.

This morning my run was stormed out.  I will run in rain, but not in thunder and lightening.  I'm hoping tomorrow will be a better morning for running or I will just hit the gym.  James has track and field camp this week so he will be running and jumping some more.  He was super excited for this camp and I'm so glad that he enjoys it.  It will be a busy week for us, but it will be a great start to our summer of fun!

Happy Fourth of July!

Ever have one of those days where you know that running may not be a good idea, but you really really want to run?  Yeah, that was my day today.  Last night I was achy all over and just couldn't get comfortable.  This morning I woke up and every muscle and bone in my body just hurt...a lot.

I tried stretching and it didn't help.  I decided to just take the dogs for a long walk.  I don't know if that helped or not.

Anya and Mulder share a leash when I walk them.  River is around my waist.  Normally they all settle into a pattern after the initial excitement of being out for a walk.  That didn't happen today.  Mike says they are like watching the Shriners in their little cars.  I think it's like the Keystone Cops.  Either way they never settled down.

Anya always has to go to the bathroom right away.  Since she and Mulder are on the same leash this leads to some pulling and me playing find the doggy doo in the grass.  When Mulder has to stop he is a stubborn little cuss.  He gets this look on his face and just digs his heals in.  Today he decided to wiggle out of his harness while I was picking up after him.  I was trying to get River to quit pulling, Anya to stop chasing Mulder, and Mulder to come back to me so I could put him back in his harness.  At least he panics when he realizes he's not on the leash anymore.  He freezes and doesn't move.  River on the other hand would see it as an opportunity to take off.

I finally get them all back and moving in the same direction.  We spent the rest of the walk going in three different directions, chasing robins and rabbits, barking at cars and people, and stopping every 5 feet to check out something cool.  Oh and we can't forget getting all tangled up because that's a fun activity.

All the pulling didn't help my muscles feel any better though.  I don't think it was the best idea to take all 3 at once.  Right now they are all sleeping and plotting their next move.  I'm going to spend the day cleaning out the fridge and making potato salad for our Fourth of July cookout tonight.  I need to show James how we Americans celebrate our birthday!

Be safe and enjoy your day!

It Doesn't Feel Like July

And I'm okay with that right now.  I got up and went for a run with River this morning.  It was a beautiful 54 degrees.  There was no humidity and a nice breeze.  River was in heaven.  She got to chase her giant growling bunnies (buses) and check out what was going on in the neighborhood. 

While I love this change in weather, my head has different ideas.  I've been fighting migraines this week.  With storm systems moving through and now Arthur moving up the coast, my head has been on the verge of exploding for several days.  I have been taking a lot of headache/migraine meds which in turn has caused my stomach to revolt.  I have to decide if I want blinding pain or an upset stomach.  I have chosen the upset stomach.

During the run my head started hurting. I made sure I brought lots of water and drank some so that helped a bit.  I usually don't run with water for short runs like this, but after being so dehydrated this past weekend, I decided to take some.  I was glad I did.  River had her water bottle and ended up wanting to drink some which she rarely does on the short runs.  I guess we both needed the water.

I'm using this week and next week to get my endurance base back then I start on a 14 week training plan for my half marathon.  I sat down last night and put my schedule in my planner along with my races and swim schedule.  It looks good.

Next week I'm back at the weights too.  I don't like lifting weights all that much, but I know I need to do it.  I also need to get more core work in.  Those are my biggest weaknesses in my training.  I will be able to do it and I have to just stay on myself.

Tomorrow we have another short 3-4 mile run.  I'm looking forward to it and the weather should be nice again.  Just have to stay with it and get back on a good schedule!

Canada Day 5k Recap

I know this is a day late and it may even be a dollar short.  I'll have to let you know if I find that missing Loonie in the couch cushions or not.


Yesterday was Canada Day.  Canada celebrated her 147th birthday.  Last year I started a tradition of running a 5k race.  I run the one in Burlington put on by VRPro.  We run several of their races and like the way the are organized and that they have a nice community feel to them.  Being a Canadian transplant, I'm trying to find my place still.  I get homesick on two holidays, Thanksgiving and Canada Day/Fourth of July.  Neither is celebrated quite like they are in the United States so I'm trying to start my own traditions and take the best of both of them and combine them into a great family celebration.


The Canada Day 5k is a nice flat course along the lake.  It's through a park that then hosts a Canada Day celebration.  I knew I wasn't going to run well because my body was still sore and dehydrated from the swim meet on the weekend.  I did start out to fast and 15 minutes into the race, the wheels fell off.  My muscles just started getting very tight and I knew I was not going to finish well.  I decided to take it easy and just enjoy the run.  The scenery was pretty and there was a nice breeze coming off the lake.  Then I hit the wooded area.  Ugh...that's when the humidity hit.  It was so sticky and the air was so close that it made it hard to breathe.  That's when I started to sweat really badly and my legs started to revolt.  I was feeling very sick due to dehydration. 


I am usually pretty good about adjusting when a race just doesn't feel good, but this one I was having a hard time with.  I had to walk and I haven't had to walk during a 5k or 10k in a long time.  I had to remind myself that everyone has races like this.  Oh was it ever a really long last 1.5k of that race.


I finished and I had a smile on my face.  It may have been a smile that was holding back a string of profanity that would make a sailor blush, but it was a smile.


I drank lots of water over the weekend knowing I would need it and yesterday I drank even more water.  I'm feeling rehydrated and ready to go tomorrow morning for a nice 4 mile run.  The storms have blown through and it will be a beautiful morning to go for a run with River.  Hopefully tomorrow morning goes better than yesterday.


Needing a shot a redemption, I think I'm signing up for a 5k race on July 17th.  I'm still debating this, but I know I will probably give in.  I won't be dressing like this for that race though.

I'm looking forward to tomorrow's run!

Let the Half Marathon Training Begin!

Today was my kickoff to half marathon training.  I won't really start a structured program until next week, but James was here and we went for a run.


He was up before me this morning.  I was in the process of trying to drag myself out of bed when I heard him rustling around.  I got up and checked my email while he spent a half hour doing his "paperwork" in his "office."  I thought I would have to pry him out of bed and hook him up to River's leash to get him started, but nope, he was ready to go.


Today we took a route that went by his old school.  I think that was some of his motivation.  His mother moved so he switched schools this year.  He loves his new school, but misses his old one.  Plus the route is fairly flat for my benefit.


River was ready to go as well.  She did he getting into the leash dance and the hurry up and put on your shoes song.  It was a nice morning for a run and River took off with me in tow.  I got her settled into a pace just in time for a bus to come along.  River views buses as the enemy and it's her job to protect the city from these vicious beasts.  It's a job she take very seriously.  After she yelled and chased the bus away, we had to wait for James to catch up.


We didn't get very far from the bus stop when I pug decided to join us on our run.  Pugs are not good at looking both ways before they cross the street, so I'm waving a van off while this pug is moving it's little pug legs to catch up to River.  Once he got to us, he decided that running isn't a pug thing, but cuddles was.  The owner came and got him and we were off once more.


I think back to when I first started back with running and how I wouldn't go on main roads because I didn't view myself as a "real runner."  Man was I missing out. I love to see the looks on peoples faces as I'm running.  Now keep in mind I have a crazy eyed coon hound around my waist, a 9 year old boy doing his best impression of the Phoebe run from Friends, and my Training For the Zombie Apocalypse Bondi Band on.  I can only imagine what we all looked like.


Today we ran a half mile further than we ran on Sunday and only a minute and a half longer.  I'm very proud of my running partners.  James a very clear goal of running the 10K Lord of the Bling virtual run.  He really wants to do that so he's training for it now. 


We're home now and getting ready to shower and run errands.  I'm off to Nepean for a swim meet so probably won't get my runs in this weekend.  I'll take my running stuff just in case, but I don't see it happening.  If I don't get to run, my next run with be the Canada Day 5k on Tuesday.


Canada Day is when my training officially kicks off.  James and River will be my training partners for the shorter runs, sprint days and hill days.  James says his looking forward to the hill days because he loves running uphill.  He's a bit crazy that way.


Have a great weekend!

What a Sticky Run

Today I postponed my run until after I dropped James off at school.  I think that was a mistake. I should have just run at five this morning.  It got humid out!  River was excited when she saw my running shoes come out.  I love watching her literally jump into her harness to go for a run.  It makes me smile and it makes it easier to get out the door.

We started out at a slow pace until a city bus passed us.  All bets were off then.  See, River thinks buses are giant rabbits to be chased.  I will say I do get my interval training in by running with her.

She was fine until about 15 minutes into the run.  She started slowing down then.  I don't take water with us on anything under 5k as it's usually around a 30 minute run.  Today I think she may appreciated the water.  I also didn't think it was that humid out either.  I feel like such a bad doggy mama. 

I did have to stop and stretch my hip so she got a rest then.  When I fell on Monday, I must have landed on it and not realized it.  I can't tell if there is a bruise as it's right where I have one of my tattoos so I can't see it there is a bruise there or not.

Towards the end of the run, I thought River was going to slow down for a walk but one of those really loud giant rabbits went by and we sprinted almost the last 3 minutes. 

After our walks or runs, she usually demands her lunch.  Today she drank some water and flopped down on the floor and is now sound asleep.  She's worn out.  Poor girl.  She loves every minute of the run though.

Tomorrow I'm back in the gym and starting back up with the weights.  I'll stop in the gym after I'm done coaching my Masters swim practice.  I'm excited to be back at it.  I'm feeling pretty good and motivated to get back to running and back to the gym.

It's all about pulling hard, running fast, being carefree and having fun. 

Back At It!

This morning I was determined to get up and out the door for a quick run.  I know I have to build back up and that is the plan.  I set my alarm and the dogs helped get me up.  I fed them and got dressed.  When I pulled out my running shoes, River got really excited.  She knows what my running shoes look like and she knew that she was going to go for a run.  Once she gets going, I have no excuse not to get out the door.


I only had about 20-25 minutes since Mike had to leave for work.  It was just enough for my first day back.  It was a beautiful, cool morning.  I had the radio on and was enjoying the quiet calm of the day.  Early mornings are my favorite time of the day.  River and I love being out and checking out everything. 


I felt pretty good and the run was feeling nice and easy.  That's when it happened.  I misjudged the curb and did a fantastic swan dive into a beautiful tuck and roll landing.  I sat there stunned for a minute and then hopped up before anyone saw me.  As I was sitting there, River gave me a look that said, "Get up!  I have geese to chase!"  When I got home I saw the damage.

I also have a nice scrape on my ankle.  It was quite the fall.  We finished the run and I sat on the deck for a bit just enjoying the birds and the world waking up.  

Tomorrow I'm out for a bit longer.  Just increasing my time not focusing on the mileage just yet.  Just running a few more minutes each day for the next week and a half.  July 1st is my kick off for training for my next half marathon.

Beautiful Friday

I got some much needed sleep last night.  One of the reasons my motivation has been lacking is my lack of sleep.  I have been having problems sleeping.  I have slept fairly well the past few nights so Sunday should be a go for my run.


I took all 3 dogs our for our mid-morning walk and they loved it.  The walk well together for the most part.  River wants to get back to running though.  When we pass a runner she looks back at me as if to say, "This should be us!"  Mulder and Anya are not runners, but they love the long walks.


I get to spend the rest of the day hitting up all the thrift stores because James announced that he wants to go at the 11th Doctor to the Niagara Falls Comic Com tomorrow.  I'm off to find the pieces for the costume.  At least it wasn't a Pokémon character because I have no time to make a costume like that.


I spent the walk making my normal lists of what needs to get done and spent some time thinking about my running.  It's one of the few times I don't think and with my mind in overdrive lately I really need to get back at it.  I planned our route for Sunday.  I know it's just going to be a short run, but just thinking about getting back out there makes me smile.  Sunday looks perfect for a run too!


I'm ready to be back at it.  I have a few races coming up that I will run with James and I'm excited to have him training with me this summer. He won't go on long runs, but he and I will do some short runs, hill work and speed work together.  He made the comment that he likes running with River and I.  Then he said something that I have to remember to keep me motivated and remind me why I enjoy running.  He said, "I like when we run with River because she has a lot of fun running.  She reminds me of 4 things about running.  You should run fast, pull hard, be carefree and have fun."  It's so true! 


Running should be fun and carefree.  Sometimes I think we lose that when we are training for a goal race or trying to find time to fit in a run.  My goal for the summer is to be carefree and have fun while I'm running.  I want to be as happy as River is when she's running.  I want to have that 9 year old mind set that James has.  Just have that feeling I did when I was a kid.  How great it felt to run.


So my mantra for the summer is Run Fast. Pull Hard. Be Carefree. Have Fun!


Have a great day!

Niagara Falls Women's Half Marathon Wrap Up

It's been awhile since I've posted and I need to get back at it. 


On Sunday I ran the Niagara Falls Women's Half Marathon.  It was a great race and a beautiful venue.  The race kits was amazing!  I loved running by the Falls.  My problems were my own doing. 


I've had some motivation issues so I haven't been running like I should.  I hadn't run for 3 weeks leading up the race.  I knew it was going to be rough go of it.  I was so right.  The first 15 minutes were pure torture.  I had to give in and do a 5 minute run 2 minute walk for the remainder of the race.  It worked well, but I was disappointed in myself for not training.


I added 9 minutes to my best time.  I'm going to run this race again next year to prove to myself that I can do it well.


I'm getting back on a training schedule starting on Sunday.  River and I are up early and out the door.  Now that swim season is almost over I can focus on me.


I'm looking forward to an easy 4-5 miles on Sunday. 


I'm signing for the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Half Marathon again this year.  Training will start July 1st for that.  I have some 5ks on the schedule for this summer and a few fun runs like the Dirty Dash, the Warrior Dash and a color run at sometime.


James will be running some of them with me and I have to be ready to run with him.  I'm looking forward to training this summer and fall.


Here we go!

Day 3: Olympic Inspiration

James got up early this morning and I had been up for a couple of hours already.  I was watching the Olympics and the women's hockey game was starting when he got up.  It was USA vs. Canada.  He was very excited and got to watch the first period before he had to get ready for school.  On the way to school, we kept trying to find the game, but couldn't.  When we got to school, the US was up 1-0.  I went to the gym after dropping him off and was able to watch the 3 period.  It was a pretty good game.  Canada won 3-2.  When the United States scored their 2nd goal I forgot where I was.  I was running along and when the goal was scored, I threw my hands up and said, "YES!" in a not so quiet voice.  Oops....It was a good game.  I can't wait for the medal games now.

I did do 4.5 miles on the treadmill today.  I felt pretty good and kept moving.  I think watching the Olympics is helping.  It helps pass the time and I am an Olympic junkie!  I got to also watch speed skating.  Today was a day off from my weights.  Tomorrow I have another cross training day and weights again.  Friday is my first long run of my training.  I have to remember my vasaline though.  My legs are a bit chaffed from running today.

This weekend I'll have 2 rest days as I'm at a swim meet all weekend.  It should be a fun time though. 

109 days left!

Day 2: Half Marathon Training Has Begun!

And I'm off and running!  Yesterday and today I was in the gym with my goal in sight!  Yesterday I ran a 5k on the treadmill (Yuck!) and did weights (legs).  Today was a cross training day so I did the recumbent bike and upper body weights.  It felt good.  I'm glad I used last week to get back in the swing of things.  I have a schedule and my training plan, so I'm ready to go!


I just want some of this snow to melt so as my long runs get longer, I can run them outside.  I can only do about 10k on the treadmill and that's a mental battle for me.  I just hate staying in the same place the whole time.  I do make a game out of it and speed up and slow down at various times.  It doesn't make it any easier mentally for me though.  I just have to get through it I guess. 


Weight lifting has been going really well.  I feel really good while doing it.  I'm already going to up the weight on some exercises.  That's a good sign!


With my half marathon training comes my half marathon eating.  More protein and lots of fresh fruits and veggies!  I love it!  I have been eating like crap for about a month.  I haven't been getting enough vegetables and I can tell.  But I'm back on it and should start feeling more energized soon.


My next check up race is on March 8th.  It's the downhill race I run every year.  This year I'm going to break 30 minutes!  That's my goal and I think I'll be there by March.


Tomorrow I'm doing a 4-5 mile run, but no weights.  Thursday is another cross training and weights day.  Friday is my long run, 10k.  Saturday and Sunday I'm at a swim meet so I won't be able to get in any runs.  Monday should feel good though after standing on the pool deck the whole weekend.


110 days until I run my race!  Let's get this done!

Valentine's Day Couples 5k

Today we ran our annual Couples Valentine's 5k race.  James got to run it with us this year.  Mike and I have run this race 3 years in a row now.  We register as a couple and have to run tied together.  Here we are before the race.

This year we had James so he registered and ran as a single.  He was very excited as the finishers medals are big hearts and he has always loved our medal.

 It was snowy and cold, but that didn't stop us!  The course was a bit slick so we ran a bit slower to make sure we didn't fall.  James did a great job of running the first 3.5k.  He walked to drink some water and then finished the race strong.  It wasn't a best time, but it was a pretty good time for the conditions.  We ran a 38:52.

Here we are after the race.

We went back inside for some pizza and the awards. James ended up getting 2nd in his age group.  He won a running hat and a $10 gift card to the Running Room.  He was so excited!

After he got his prize, he got a post-race massage before heading home.

It was a great day!  Tomorrow starts my half-marathon training!  112 days until I race my 2nd half marathon.  Day 1 starts tomorrow!

It's Been Awhile

Ack...the holidays and all this blessed snow got me sidetracked and off schedule.  I'm back now and have been hitting the gym really hard this week.  Next week starts my half marathon training.  I'm running the Niagara Falls Women's Half Marathon.  I'm pretty excited.


I did run the Robbie Burns 8k and dropped 4 minutes from my best time on that route.  It was crazy cold, but it was a nice run.  Here I am after the race.

This was my first race as a 40 year old.  Not too bad.

This weekend we run the Valentine's Day Couples 5k.  James will be running as well.  We found out that we were going to have him this weekend so we got him registered as a single.  He's pretty excited about that too.

Because of all the snow and ice, I've been running on the treadmill this week.  I'm hoping that over the next few weeks it starts to clear up so I can do my long runs outside.  I just want a safe place to to them.  I'm really nervous about twisting an ankle on the ice and snow.  Or getting hit by car due to the incredibly high snow banks.

I've been hitting the weights this week as well.  It feels good to be back into a routine after being out of it for a few months.  I think when I'm looking at my training schedule, I'm going to have to accept that December and part of January are just crazy and I just need to get a run in when I can.  

This week has been all about getting on a schedule so I can start training next week.  I'm ready to hit it and hit it hard!

Half Marathon Training here I come!!!!