Exciting Stuff Is Happening!!

FINALLY feeling great! Got a new med and it's like a miracle...Discovering MIX1 at one of the half marathon expos was also a huge plus. I have one in the morning and another around 4pm and I feel more energetic. I plan on continuing that through out the summer.

Now that I feel "on track" no pun intended...I feel ready to take on the full marathon once again. I have a personal trainer!!!!!!! Heather Butcher who owns TriFitSports here in SW Florida has taken on the challenge of getting me to qualify for the ultimate goal of running Boston!!! I am very excited!!! I was talking with my husband one day about wanting to qualify and he said if I was seriously ready I should call Heather. I think I was sending her an email before he finished the words...lol. My husband's support has always been so important to me. This gift is amazing and I am so thankful for the opportunity. Without his confidence in me and his words of wisdom I don't know where I'd be. Love him!!!!!!!!

Marathon training won't start until Aug since I plan on running Space Coast in November, but after meeting with Heather, we decided to get a jump start with some speed training for the next 8 weeks. That gives me a chance to work on the nutrition part of training too. I'm really curious to see how fast I can get with this 8 week training. I'm getting ready to embrace the pain!

Christmas Eve!!!

WOW!! This year just FLEW by!! I can only wish I could run that fast! Ha!! The new year is just around the corner and I am SO ready! I have a renewed confidence in myself for meeting a few specific goals. #1 is qualifying for Boston, of course, but I plan on having fun along the way. Kristi and I are doing the Warrior Dash in January for starters. It's 3.25 mile obstacle course through mud puddles, tunnels and who knows what else!!! You get a hat with horns at the end!! Then it's back to serious distance training.

I've had a couple pain free runs and it feels great! Finally finding out what the problem has been is a relief. Finding foods I can eat to sustain long runs is the new battle. I am trying out a protein shake mix today to see how that goes. It's a whey powder...should be fine. One thing I can't do is the GU Chomps. BUMMER! I love those things! I don't know if it's the sugar or the caffeine (seriously???) I can drink coffee but chocolate hurts within 10 minutes. I can eat turkey just fine...too bad tryptofan makes you sleep!! (actually, it aids your body in making vit B...which is good for muscles!!!) Trial and error I guess! Maybe shedding a few lbs will add speed...I'm so lazy when it comes to speed work! UGH!

Gotta run (haha!) I have a few last minute Christmas things to do...I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday with family and friends this weekend!!! Here's to a new year, new goals, new joys!!! xoxoxoxoxoxo

Running In SW Florida In December

It's freezing. Seriously. It's 32 degrees here this morning! There was a reason I never did any running when I lived in Massachusetts, and this temp is it. Luckily I can wait until this afternoon when it'll get to about 55 for my run, but I feel bad for my northern runner friends.

I have been running very regularly the last couple months. Had a few bad days but I found the PERFECT running partner and she's been so supportive on the tough days. I told her I was her box of chocolates since she never knows what she's gonna get with me...lol. Kristi and I trained together for a half mary in St Pete Nov 21st. We had a realistic goal for 2:09 but a hopeful goal closer to 2. Our long runs were strong and we were ready for this race!

1 week before the race, I had a doc appointment. He's a GI (gastro) specialist who does a test for stones in the bile ducts. When I got there he said it was not stones, he felt that I had a spastic colon. SEXY! Ugh...so he put me on a pro biotic and Librax to calm things down. For those of you who don't know what Librax is (and I didn't bother to question) it's a muscle relaxer and has some sedative qualities to it. You see where this is going, dontcha??? Within 3 hours the pain I've lived with for 5-6 years subsided. I was sooo happy!! It was a miracle!!! So I FAITHFULLY took it 3X a day right up to race day.

At mile 8 I felt sluggish and "weird". I had my fuel belt and was drinking Title Run (awesome stuff) so I was confused about why I seemed dehydrated. I kinda mentioned it to Kristi. By mile 10 I was hitting the wall. I was so shocked, I couldn't believe it. I told Kristi I needed to walk a minute. She refused to leave me (makes me cry). I knew I had to ditch her or I was going to screw up the race for both of us. As we came up on a crowd I ducked behind them. I saw Kristi trying to find me but I hid until she finally ran on. Then I could walk.

My legs were like lead jelly. It felt like I did when I hit the wall at mile 23 in that marathon a couple years ago! I walked and drank the rest of my bottles, I even stopped for water and Gatorade. I was able to start running again by 11.5...then I heard the crowd screaming around 12 miles. I took off, not fast but I was running. That finish line was so beautiful!! I heard Kristi screaming for me and I ran to find out her time. She did it in 2:09:22! I was soooo proud of her! We would have loved to finish it together but I can live off the joy of her finishing in our goal time very happily! WooHoo!

Fast forward to 2 days later with me at the doc for a recheck. I'd had a couple things happen I don't want to advertise here in blogland, but it prompted a colonoscopy. I know, it just gets sexier by the paragraph! But when I told the doc I'd just run a half mary...he's a runner too...he looked at me funny and said I basically ran that race on valuim. He would have told me not to take it a full 24 hours before a race of any kind, never mind a half mary. He couldn't believe I finished it. So now my 2:19 seems pretty flippin fabulous!!! LOL...it's a PR too, might I add. YAY!!

Ok, so colonoscopy was done last Thursday. We have a diagnosis after 6 years of BS. I have colitis and a spastic colon. No wonder I was dehydrated. And my weight goes up and down by 10 lbs constantly. Not to mention all the nutrients that weren't being absorbed. Sheesh. My guess at food allergies was pretty close, but by avoiding certain foods I never would have fixed it myself. The avoid list is a long one and it differs for everyone. Beer is out but it's worth feeling sooooo awesome! Chips (sigh), fried foods, salad, seeds and nuts are common trigger foods so I've been starting with those until I see my regular GI doc today.

I am so relieved to finally know what's going on. Running with colitis can be a challenge but HEY...I L-O-V-E a challenge. That's why I run.

Kim's Running!

I've been busy the last 2 months with getting my hydration and nutrition in order. It's a fine line keeping it balanced!! If it's too hot I don't run. If I feel "off" at all I stay in. I've been slowly gathering momentum...I feel FANTASTIC!!!!!!!

When I'm not running I drink Power Zero and lots of water. I drink full strength sports drinks and 100% juice on days I do run. I'm taking a multi vitamin 2x a day, potassium once daily and I did buy some sodium pills but I'm hesitating with those until I see my doc. Not sure how to take those. My nutrition has improved some but my chip addiction is a hard thing to give up. Ok, beer is still a fave too...lol! But my muscle strength is improving dramatically and the leg pain/cramping is GONE! I hardly ever get headaches anymore but if I do feel one coming on I pump up the hydration.

I've run a few 5K races and have been improving my times each race. The last one was MDA 5K...I ran that one in my Vibrams and it was the best race this year!!!! 27:44...not a PR but what a strong run that was. Best I've felt in, well...years actually. 1st race in my Vibrams. I plan on wearing them again at the Gasparilla 5K next weekend (Oct3rd). My PR was accomplished at that race...curious to see what I do this year. A few of us meet on Mondays for speed work. I hate it, I'll admit it. I think it's the track. BORING. But I love seeing my friends and talking the talk...lol

I have a half marathon relay planned in March with my friend Kristi. We're so excited!!! We named our team "Sole Sisters"...isn't that cute?? We're a perfect match. We run the same pace, have the same goals and we seem to really motivate each other. We've been doing our Saturday long runs together and it's been a huge help getting me back into some decent distance. Last Saturday we did 7 miles in 72 minutes. Felt great except for when Kristi almost stepped on a black snake. She screamed and scared the life outa me!! My legs froze up for a quarter mile and I really wanted to walk it off but Kristi said NO!! And I was not about to let her pass me so we kept going. Do you know how hard it is to run while you're laughing, knees weak from snake fear??? It was hard...lol...but we did the entire 7 miler no stops. We even got a good tempo/sprint the last quarter mile. I love ending runs like that. I am really enjoying running again!! So happy!!

So I plan on slowly adding the mileage, stepping up my speed work and concentrating on nutrition. I am on week 2 of eating better and I've lost 4 of the 10 lbs I found while on the mend. I'd love to get back into yoga...might even start that P90X I bought last December...haha! Maybe.....

LIFE IS GOOD!!!! I AM HAPPY!!!!

I'm Still Standing!

And sometimes that's all I'm doing. I run when I can and I mope around when I can't. This chronic dehydration issue is a pain in my running shoe. I honestly thought finding out the problem would make everything fine but I'm learning that chronic dehydration is just that: chronic. Florida summers are not helping matters. For the first time in my life (yes, life!) I am looking forward to the winter. (I bet Sherry just fell off her chair...lol)

I feel SO MUCH better on a daily basis, that it frustrates me to not be where I'd like to be at with my endurance and speed. I couldn't understand why I was still having issues until I researched CD and found out something veryyyyy interesting. First, my doc figures I arrived in Florida 7 years ago probably already dehydrated. When I started running 2.5 years ago, it made it worse. Obviously. So for all that time, my body went into survival mode and started hoarding the "good" stuff. Like cholesterol, red blood cells...FAT. My cholesterol is so high that I'm embarrassed to post it, but it's around 300. We're attempting diet changes before meds and hydrating may bring it down. Anyway...when your cholesterol is high, a shell forms on the cells in your body making it difficult to absorb h2o, vitamins and minerals. I'm not sure if this shell is reversible...I need to call my doc about that. This means the well runs dry quicker than normal and exercise depletes it even faster. Fatigue sets in and misery soon follows...lol.

This info is very valuable for me. I have learned to pay serious attention to my body and stop ignoring the signals of dehydration. Unfortunately, it has cut my running down A LOT. I haven't run more than 3 miles at a time since January. For a distance runner, that is heartbreaking. For someone who thought running was not going to be an option anymore...it's a step in the right direction. That's what I need to focus on. It's so hard to stop planning for a weekend long run. People keep asking me when my next marathon or half is and I feel that pang in my heart when I say I'm concentrating on the 5K these days. So I know I'll get back to distance eventually. In the mean time I'm attempting to put together my own training program. It's looking like I need to do slower, shorter training runs with a speed play once a week. I plan on slowly adding on to that.

Yesterday I ran 2 miles in 22 minutes...ugh. I had a nice little conversation with myself on the cool down walk home. Went something like this:

ME: Man, you suck.
SELF: Hey, you did 2 miles.
ME: You still suck.
SELF: You're forgetting how you felt just 2 months ago.
ME: Stop reminding me.
SELF: You're being stupid. Need another spinal tap for ole times sake???
ME: No. Those are burned into my memory.
SELF: Remember when it hurt to roll out of bed?
ME: I remember.
SELF: Hey, you just did 2 miles!
ME: Yes I did. Thank you God.

I love my life. I really am a very lucky woman.

On The Road Again (and some 'mill too!!)

I'm happy to say I feel fabulous! I am running again, but this time I'm really starting over. I'm pretending to be a brand new runner and I'm easing into it gently. I haven't done more than 3 miles yet and no speedwork. Not that I ever got into the speedwork anyway, but I'm taking it easy. Smelling the flowers (and some roadkill) along the way, I stop and talk to people just like the old days! I walk if I feel like it and I don't feel guilty! Which leads me to my ponderings.....

Seems to me, that when I was having health problems I was pushing myself, running like a madwoman with something to prove. I was in so much pain...I can't believe I ran like that. Now that I feel so great I don't seem to have the drive. I am happy to run 3 miles or just 2. I'm not feeling the marathon pull AT ALL. It's soooo weird! I do plan to run 4 miles tomorrow...early to miss this heat. I'm curious to see if that clicks the distance desire back on.

The weather here in SW Florida is BRUTAL right now. The humidity is so heavy you can almost swim instead of run. I am so afraid of dehydration that I've actually hopped on the mill a couple times. Someone told me to incline it a little and I haven't had any shin splints. Running on the mill at the gym is hard too because people stop to talk and I cannot run 6.5 mph and chat. I'd like to take this opportunity to apologize to my gym friends for trying to hold a conversation with them while THEY were on the mill. Sorry. I'll never do that again. And please don't try to give me "payback" and stop to talk to ME....haha!!!! I'm just kidding. Everyone who knows me, knows I'm happy to talk anywhere, anytime....TALK ON!!! Great excuse to slow it down...;)

Another gym friend, Lee is his name, walks the treadmill at a full incline doing 2.5 mph. He hikes the Colorado mountains with his search/rescue dog Rusty. (Lee is someone I ALWAYS stop to talk to...he has some very cool rescue stories) But he told me he works his quads that way. Like hillwork. So I've done that a few times. Killer work out. My quads were screaming after those work outs!! Florida is so flat that running over the swells at the end of driveways feels like mountains. I'd probably have to walk the hills if I ran back home (Cape Cod, Ma) I've seen the route for the Falmouth Road race (which is exactly where I used to live) and my quads and hams ache at the thought. Some friends back home talk about running the canal at the Bourne Bridge and I wish I was there.

I biked 10 miles with my husband last week and really loved that. We did it in 50 minutes and my behind is just now feeling better. I need bike shorts before I do that again. We're talking about finding a bike/run race together. I'd L-O-V-E that!!! So I have new goals, new views on my running and I feel relaxed about the whole thing. Summer is here and I'm going to enjoy my family! We're going to Universal soon and we're all looking forward to spending some time together. Even our 2 older girls are coming. This will be my grandson's very first vacation!!

I'm back to loving life.

Starting All Over...

Now that I'm drinking water, gatorade and juice instead of coffee and beer, I really do feel better!!!! I'm so amazed! And the funny thing is that it's the coffee I cannot cut out. The beer is forgotten. Can you say "self medicating????????" Wow....

As soon as I was feeling better I jumped right back in as if I didn't just take 4 months off of running/excercising. I even ran 2.5 miles in my Vibrams 2 days before my first 5k. DUMMY!!!! Then I ran the first 2 miles of that 5K in 17 minutes, calves screaming before I had to stop and walk. Finished in 27:32 hurting. Came in 7th in my age division, 70th out of about 300 runners. Not bad, not bad at all...Took me a good week to recover, no kidding. But what a fantastic feeling to be back among my fellow runners. I wanted to kiss the orange cones.

I was very upset that my recovery time was so drawn out. I posted my disappointment on my FaceBook page (I'm a crazy FaceBooker) and thankfully my IronMaiden girlie Sherry saw it. She reminded me that I need to recondition. That I can't just think I'm going to pick up right where I left off. Why do I do that????? Sherry is at her 70.3 RIGHT NOW!!!! GO GIRLLLLL...xoxo

I have decided to not run over 5 miles until I shave my 5K PR. I need to concentrate on reconditioning and do some speed work more faithfully. I enjoy the steady mileage of marathon training because I love to crank my music and get lost in my thoughts on the routes. If I run less than 5 miles it feels more like a work out than an enjoyment so I tend to try to bang it out as quickly as possible. I have to try to change my way of thinking! Marathon training is burned into my brain. Neg splits, don't go out too fast, nice and steady....I have to put new thoughts in there. As crazy as it sounds, I don't even know what those words can be....

On a fun note...my 12 year old daughter Emily has decided to go out for track next year!! She'll be in 7th grade and I am ALL OVER THAT! She isn't real active normally so I didn't take it too seriously at first, but yesterday I was headed out for a shorty when she spotted me. She asked if she could come and I said OF COURSE! I suited her up, popped a hat on her head and handed her a bottle of WATER. I'm teaching her the importance of hydration above all things.

Twice around the block is a mile, so we did a power walk to warm up then ran for as long as she could. Which was a quarter mile! Not bad!!! We walked one minute, ran another quarter. Emily held that 10:30 pace the first half mile!!!!!! The second half mile was a little slower with more frequent walks so I will have her slow down a little today. We'll stick with the 1 milers until she can do the whole thing without stopping. She is very excited and so am I...I love this!!! She was talking non-stop the whole time (just like her mom...lol) which is good. That'll keep her from going too fast at first. =)

Very exciting stuff...it's so good to be back!!!

I Have Discovered...SWEAT!

First...thank you for all the support and emails, it means the world to me!! xoxo

I've been running (or attempting to) for 2.5 years now. Seems like it's more off than on but I am definately feeling soooo much better! My GI doctor said I have gastritis (too much acid) and I have meds for that. What a great feeling not to have stomach pain. It's almost gone! Totally ignorable...LOL. Doc told me he sees chronic dehydration EVERYDAY. He said it's a huge problem here in Florida, even in the winter because we still have the heat. A lot of people move here and never consider how much fluid they're losing. That's me. Moved here 7 years ago and I've loved every minute of it. I was not too active in Massachusetts. Ok, I was sedentary to be honest. So to move here and start running long distance spelled disaster for me.

It has taken me almost 4 weeks to get used to drinking fluids. I didn't realize how little I was taking in. Now I have a beverage in my hand ALL the time. I cut coffee back, barely drink beer anymore and now I go from water to gatorade to juice. At first I was running to the ladies room every 5 minutes but now I seem to have gotten used to it. And guess what?? I really do feel better! I was a little insulted at first that the doc didn't think I knew how to hydrate (HA) but I started thinking about it and realized I didn't drink before a run because of issues I was having. (bladder) and that I hate carrying a bottle or wearing a hydration belt. I love to feel free when I run and it's pretty tough to feel free with a few sloshing bottles strapped to my mid section. HATED THAT! Speaking of sloshing...I didn't like the feel of my stomach with water in it either. So I figured what's a few miles...I'll drink when I get back. WRONG.

Once you become dehydrated you can't just suck down a bottle of water or gatorade and think all is well. It's not. I learned I need to hydrate with about 21 oz THE DAY BEFORE, not just the morning of a run. Then after the run, you need gatorade AND water to BEGIN to replace what I've lost. Doesn't stop there. I need to continue to hydrate for the rest of the day. I NOWHERE NEAR was hydrating. Ever. No wonder I was sick. Sheesh.

For the last week I've been very slowly hitting the road. I started with 2 miles, stopping every quarter mile to drink (30 seconds) and stayed with that until I was getting 2 miles done in about 19 minutes. I also wanted to get used to drinking while running. Yesterday I ran 2 miles in 19:08 (?) about...so this morning I felt ready for 3 miles. It was 90 degrees and 87% humidity. Nothing I haven't run in before. But this time I was determined to incorporate the drinking. I still had to walk to drink but not for as long. I noticed the other day I was sweating unbelievably. I had never really sweated before. (good sign of dehydration right there) When I got home, sweat was just pouring off me. While I waited for the cool down before I showered, I couldn't believe how much sweat there was!!!!! I am thrilled to know I am hydrating properly now.

My legs feel great, barely even a cramp and that's probably just normal from running. No headache either. I think I'm ready for the County Line 5K this weekend. I'll probably be nowhere near my PR but that's ok. I'm back!!!

Long Overdue Update!

I can't believe I haven't been in here in 2 months! I think I may have run a total of 6 miles between then and now. But I'm hoping that is about to change!!!!!

I decided to call the GI doc I saw 5 years ago for stomach pain at the time. I had burned my entire GI tract from too much Excederine back then. I was taking that for pain...(had a hysterectomy 5 years October) and the doc said it would take years for the tract to heal. I have been having pain ever since, but chalked it up to that. I'm a PRO at ignoring stuff.

When I told him my symptoms he immediately said my leg problems are from being dehydrated!!! I thought " WHAT"????? How can that be???????? It's been 2 years since these problems started. Can you be dehydrated for 2 years and not catch it in the labwork??? So I have cut out beer (one week today) and trying to cut back on coffee. I've upped my fluid intake and am drinking more water.

Anyway...I saw this doc last week and he did an upper endoscopy last Monday. He said I have gastritis and a possible infection. He took a biopsy to identify the infection and I see him Tuesday afternoon to find out how he's going to treat it. I am soooo hopeful this is the answer! I do notice my headaches have stopped. I love that!

My fingers are crossed...my toes too!!

River, Roots and Ruts Race Report (LATE)

For some reason the pics won't let me edit....so they're backward (time-wise...end first) !!!!!!

Frank, Kim and Ed

Kim

In case you missed the last pic....Kim again

Scott crossing finish line!!! YAY!!!!!!! 2:09 finish!!!

Scott ans Kim crossing finish line!!!

And he's OFF!!!!! GO SCOTT!!!!!

Frozen fingers chip exchange!!! BRRRRR!!!

I couldn't undo the velcro...haha!!!

Scott waiting patiently and freezing.

Scott at a NOT FUNNY sign..ha!

And we're off and running!!!!

Crazy half naked kids. Where are their mothers????

Scott and Kim at the finish! Did I mention 2:09???

Brrrrrrrrr!!!!!

Getting ready...do I look happy or what?????

Jan 3rd I got an email from Sherry that she was injured and unable to run this relay with her husband. She was looking for a replacement partner for Scott and was anyone interested? !!!!!!! I immediatley wanted to do it, but I saw that this message had gone out to a few people and I was just reading it about 10 hours late. Feeling bummed, I logged off. Thought about it and logged back in. I figured the spot would be covered, but just in case I shot a reply saying I'd love to do it if they still needed a partner. Unbelievably, I got a message from Sherry that the spot was still open and I had it if I wanted it!!!! YAY!!!!

This race is very, very popular and had filled up a while ago. It's a major trail run that I honestly would never have signed up for because of my balance issues and numb feet. Those two troubles equal BADNESS on a trail...LOL...but I've been feeling FABULOUS the last 2 months, balance and leg/feet pain have been much improved so I WAS IN! Sherry and Scott know I've just returned to training and they understood my times might be blah considering I never trail run, but their optamism inspired me. Gave me mucho confidence. Sherry repeatedly told me to run it as a "fun run" and not worry about times. Yeah right...lol...I reminded her we were both cut from the same cloth and I was planning to run my ass off. Especially since I'd be wearing HER NAME!! Extra pressure!!!

We drove together and arrived at the park at about 35 degrees. Yes. 35 freezing degrees. Oh, and it was about 6:30am. Sherry and Scott gave me the first leg which was 6 miles and flatter. (thank you guys again). The track kids were in shirts only and as a mother, I wanted to cover them with blankets. Crazy kids. I saw 2 of my favorite friends!!! Ed and frank were there for the relay too...I was thrilled to see them. We saw a few others that we know, and I met Sondra's brother too.

We all lined up at the start, not minding for once that we were crunched together. Did I mention it was freezing??? I opted to keep my long sleeved t-shirt on over my running top and I'm glad I did. The first 3/4 mile was pretty flat but winding, pace was about 8:30. Then I hit a mountain. I went easy for the first 2 because I have a full mary in 7 weeks (didn't want an injury) but the third mountain looked like I'd need some momentum. I flew up to the top so fast that I found myself in the air looking down the steep decline! It was exhilerating!!!! I almost fell running down that, but I managed to stay on my feet.

The path got very narrow and I found myself stuck behind a woman for awhile. Finally the path widened and I kinda yelled out "passing on your left!" and heard an echo of that about 6 times behind me...lol. She let us go and I let the people behind me pass. I had enough pressure running for Sherry, I didn't need the 6 pairs of feet stomping behind me...lol

I was averaging about a 9 minute pace, but I really started bowing to the steep hills by mile 3 or so. It wouldn't be worth missing my full mary. There were a few very cool turns that actually went around the base of a hill...like running on the inside of a bowl! The woods and path made for a relaxing atmosphere but the cold was, well...cold. At one point I tried to blow on my frozen fingers but the air turned cold before it hit my hands. My right foot was numb and the big toe was KILLING me. I knew it was the cold.

A couple times I could have gone off track but thankfully a man in a bright orange t-shirt was ahead of me and I could catch glimpses of him enough to follow. By 5.5 miles in, I could hear people cheering so I knew I was close. I stayed steady watching for a clearing for the chip exchange. As I shot down a hill, I heard my name and was shocked to see Sherry and Scott IN THE WOODS! No clearing...just a wider path for the trade...I almost ran past them but Scott reached out and literally pulled me off the trail....Hhahaha! My hands were so frozen I couldn't undo the velcro fastening for the chip...brrrrrr!!! I made that in about 61 minutes. Not bad!

Scott took off, glad to be running instead of standing in the cold. Sherry had my sweatshirt with her and I happily put that back on! Then we walked to the fnish line to wait for Scott.

Scott had the last leg, which was 7.1 miles and much harder. After about an hour, I left Sherry at the finish line and walked to the 13 mile post so I could run in with Scott. He came flying around the corner and I yelled "How'd it go???" I'm laughing NOW, but he yelled right back..."That SUCKED!!!!""" In that split second I thought 2 things at the same time....1) Poor Scott and 2) Thank God I had the first leg!! Isn't that awful???? But he's a way better athlete so it was kind of even LMAO!!! Just kidding Scottt....heehee!!! (about the fair part, cuz he is a better athlete)

Scott came in at 68 minutes, giving us a 2:09 finish time!!! AWESOME!!! We came in 4th for mixed relay too!! We were very pleased!! I just had the best time running that relay. Great friends, wonderful opportunity and what a cool trail that was. I am now a trail lover! Sherry assures me I did her name proud and for that I'm so happy. I got to keep the finishers medal, it's made from recycled glass! I'll get a pic of it... We hit a stop for hot coffee for the ride home. We sooo needed to defrost! I was sick for 3-4 days with a bad cold after that, but it was worth it.

Thank you Sherry and Scott, for the great time, the opportunity to run a race I never would have signed up for and for our friendship. And guess what? I'm STILL smiling!!

Getting Stronger!

This week has been pretty hectic...the holidays always are! I did get MOST of my training runs/exercises in...

I am extremely bummed that the Sarasota Grouper Full Marathon has been called off. The PR guys decided to work on the half marathon because of lack of registrants. There are usually about 3,000 runners but only about 450 run the full. Total bummer. I'm glad I had the chance to have run it once though!

I have chosen the Gasparilla Full on Feb 28, 2010 instead. This will be the last full for Gasparilla too. Gives me even more incentive to run it. My friend Bill Bonetz is running it also!!! MORE incentive! Bill is running Space Coast tomorrow. His wife Mary is doing the half. I'll be tracking their progress!!!

Turkey Trot 5K was awesome. I was hoping for a 25:55 but I did 26:31. Missed a PR by 2 seconds...lol. BUT...I beat my friend Josephine. (With love and respect..haha!) I felt great after that race. Very minimal cramping/pain for the first time in over a year. Very pleased.

I did my 8 mile training run Saturday. It was SO COLD...I had to wait until after 1pm for the sun to warm up. About 1/2 a mile out my boyfriend, Garmy, kicked. Guess he can't keep up with this ole girl...haha! I did my regular 3 mile loop back to my house...ran in and changed his batteries and ran right back out. I ran the 3 miles in just under 28 minutes, a faster pace than I wanted for a long run but I think it helped tame the wild horse inside me because I held a steady 10:10 for the next five miles. Heather was so right about slowing down. I ran the 5 without stopping and I ran an 8:40 on the last half mile. LOVE the strong finishes.

Today I feel fabulous! Changing my nutritional habits, the B-12 and potassium seem to be making a huge difference. I also have embraced the dreaded OATMEAL. UGH. Could there be anything more gross?????? Heather swears by it, so I gave it a shot. I'm sure she doesn't put 3 tablespoons of butter and a half a cup of brown sugar on hers though. The whole time I was eating it, I willed the stuff into my muscles. Instead of wanted to spit it out, I actually got it all down. Feeling so good after the longest run I've had since last March will keep me on track. I'm FIRED UP!

I am going back to the gym next week. I dropped out while I fixed myself. All the exercise classes combined with running was too much. I'm going to work it all back in slowly, starting with spin and yoga. I soooo miss yoga! My husband and I are waiting for the P90X too. That will work in very well with marathon training. It'll get Bobby back in shape after the back and neck surgeries too.

Now I will go check out Celmore...see if he's still on track too! I'm sure he is!!!!

Thriv Sportswear

About a week or so ago I got an email from Jonathan from Thriv sportswear. http://www.thrivnp.com/women He said he saw my blog and wanted to know if I'd try out a shirt. I said I'd be delighted! Not even a week later the shirt has arrived....

Here's the cool thing...UPS had just delivered my New Balance "Susan G. Komen" running shoes...HOT pink!!! I was in my running clothes and new sneaks when a package arrived. I ripped it open and pulled out a white t-back top. It's the shirt shown above, only in white....It is sooooo soft! I was surprised at how cottony it felt, I was expecting that nylon wicking material. It's made from bamboo, organic cotton and elastane. It is the softest material...some of you may know I do machine embroidery/sewing...I know a nice fabric when I feel it. I really like this material.

I need batteries for my camera and then I'll post a pic.....

BUT...my question was this...would something so soft, so lightweight be good for running? A lot of the tops I wear feel heavy. Or they're nylon/polyester and they don't fit me well. Most t-backs do not fit me properly, add the t-back sportsbra and I hate them. Most tops are clingy around my waist and I hate that too.

This top is white and t-back. I put it on and it actually fit! I checked the size and it's a medium...(I usually buy large) Very lightweight and soo soft. It fits me in a flattering, feminine way. I headed out for a 4 miler. As I was walking out, hubby was walking in...he pointed out a chocolate smudge on my shirt. HOW??? I had it on for 15 minutes! I got a cloth with cold water and gently rubbed the spot. It came right out.

Ok, nice material, fits me flatteringly and chocolate washed right out of it. So far so good....

Off I went...I did not feel constricted. Not one seam irritation. It was like a second skin. I could feel a breeze through this shirt. I did not need to re-adjust once. No pulling down, up, or even a strap irritation! It moves with me...I L-O-V-E it!!!

My husband walked the dog while I ran, so I wound up walking about a mile back to the house with him. By the time I was in my driveway, my shirt was DRY. No kidding! I don't think I've ever come out of a run with a dry shirt.

I'm going to wash it and try it out again Thurs morning. The weather here in south Florida has been cooler this week. By tomorrow it'll heat back up and I'll give this shirt a SWEATY run!! I have a feeling it'll be FABULOUS!!!!

Here are the Susan G. Komen running shoes from New Balance. I usually wear Asics but these had a style I couldn't turn down. They fit great and feel wonderful! I'm happy to find two brands that work so well with me! The laces are weird...they're shaped so they don't come untied (I'm assuming)...

Boca Grande 5K

Yuli, Jane, Debi, Kimmi and Louis at Boca Grande

This is my favorite race! It's run twice a year, in Oct and Feb. I have run it 4 times so far. I got my PR in this race last year. 26:30, after partying until midnight and waking up at 4am!!! I think I may have still been "feelin' good"...LOL

My husband had a cervical fusion (that's neck, not cervix...lol) 3 weeks ago. He was still on leave from work and he was able to come to this race. I felt good knowing he'd be at the finish line. He feels fabulous, no pain!!!

It felt a little cooler to me, but Betty (fellow Zoomer) told me she thought it was humid while we were at the starting line. I thought nothing of it until at about 1.5 miles out when I ran into a warm cloud that stayed with me to the end. Betty was right...it was humid. I think I felt the cooler air off the ocean at first. Fooled me for the 1st half of the race!!

I've been running with my brother-in-law Steve and my daughter Kerri the last 2 weeks. Steve quit smoking and wanted to add running to his workouts. Of course he thought of ME and my cool running abilities...lol. By his 3rd run he was up to 3 miles without stopping. With a 32 minute finish! Very proud of him. My daughter Kerri has been telling me for 2 years she wants to run but never has. She came home with a new pair of Asics the other day and now she's up to 2 miles! Tomorrow is her first 3 miler and she'll do great! The coolest thing is, both of them LOVE running! One of the greatest things my coach taught me was how to love running. This is something that's so important for me to pass along, so seeing these two running and LOVING it warms my heart.

Debi is training for her first half marathon in Feb! She's going to run with us too, since Steve and Kerri are also training for the half in Feb. Well, they don't know that yet...but they are...lol. I figure I'll slowly and quietly add on the mileage and see how they feel. Right now 13 miles feels unattainable to them. Seeing how quickly they're adapting to the cardio and distance is telling me they can do it. I'm excited for all 3 of them!!!

So with being in on three people's training runs, turns out I ran 15 miles last week. Haven't done that since before that evil spinal tap. My legs are still spasming, as is my back but I can run through it. I was running through it for over a year anyway...LOL

Back to the Boca race (got off the trail....)

This was the 5k/10k run. 100 people ran the 5k and I think 125 ran the 10K. Not too many runners, maybe because of the heat, economy or a bit of both. I felt good by half a mile. I was happy to be holding a 9 minute pace. I could see Mary up ahead and I kept my eye on her. I didn't see Tina until after the turnaround and was SHOCKED to be ahead of her for once!! That gave me the boost I needed at about 2 miles. It was here that I started to pass some people. It SOOOO pays off to start off a little slow. Once you get warmed up you can kick it up a notch and start passing the peeps who go out too fast. Great for the ego...LOL

I started my sprint at the 3 mile marker, slowly picking up speed. I saw Bobby at the finish line and gave it all I had left. Ed, Joan and a few other friends were there and I could hear them yelling my name. That is such a big help! They know I've been having troubles and how happy I am to be back. I finished at 27:32. One minute slower than my PR! I am happy. Thrilled!!! =)

We went and sat down, waiting for the awards. Those tiny black bugs ate us alive! My legs won't stop itching. Anyway...I made first place in my age division!!!! I love this race!!!!

More Cool News!!

Sherry...I will take you up on that fun run VERY soon sister!! Remember my "Smell The Flowers" blog post?? We're gonna smell us some flowers!!! YAY!

I'll see my regular doc Monday...I trust him to point me in the right direction on this. I will definately try a major diet change though. Not until Monday, BUSCH GARDENS tomorrow!!!!

Here's the exciting news:

Last week a group of coaches came into the restaurant I work at. They told me they have a football team that was looking for a running coach to help build their endurance and speed on the field. Would I be interested! I had to tell them I haven't even been running 2 years yet and I'm having some medical issues. I have no certificates or even classes. They asked me a few questions and said they'd really like me to consider this. I was so flattered!!! (still am!!)

They asked me to stop at the field this morning to meet the team. I was expecting 12-14 year olds but this team is all men! Turns out the team is one step away from being PRO! WOW!!! Everyone was very nice, I decided I'm going to do it! It starts in 2 weeks and I will have some plans all printed out for them! I can't wait!!

This opportunity is just what I needed. It won't require me to run on sprint/dashes...I'll be timing them for that. The longest run we'd probably do is 3-5 miles. Even on a bad day I can be there for that!!! Did I mention I love football?? I'm a die hard Patriots fan! This is gonna be FABULOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!

My sweet little punkin was here tonight. Kirstin and Chris went out for dinner and I got to babysit Collin! He just LOVES his Gramma. We already have a very strong bond, Collin and I. Kirstin was a little emotional the other day...when I picked up the baby he smiled the biggest smile ever! Kirstin said he doesn't smile like that for her. She asked if it meant he loves me more. Oh Kirsty...OF COURSE HE DOES! I'm his Gramma! LOL He's 6 weeks old already. It's going so fast!

Have a wonderful weekend!!!
xoxo

There's A new Man In My Life....

Last November, my daughter Kirstin introduced me to a young man (very young may I add). I'll admit that I was not too impressed. I was surprised and not just a little scared. I didn't feel a huge connection. At first. But then I met him again just a few weeks later.

I felt a bit excited this time. My heart was racing and I felt it do a little jump. This young man was excited to meet me again too. I could hear his heartbeat. It was strong and loud. It sounded like a horse galloping! I looked at my daughter as we both listened to this wonderful sound and we smiled at each other. Both of us loved him at that precise moment. Instantly and unconditionally in love.

As the months went on, each time we got together, I could feel our bond deepening. I'd tell him how much I loved him. I could almost hear him answer me back.

In January I saw him for the first time...on screen. His little spine was perfect, his legs looked long and strong like a runner. He turned his head toward us and raised an arm as if to say "hello!" Kirstin and I cried with happiness to have this sneak peak at him. The image is forever in our minds. (and on youtube under kimmycu search) =)

I got to see him many times as the months came and went. What an active little guy! Every time he came by, I'd tell him I loved him.

Then last Friday morning I got a phone call from my daughter, Kirstin. She told me it was time to meet this little man in person! I woke my other daughter Kerri and we met Kirstin and Chris at the hospital. (we actually beat them there) We went to a special room and helped get Kirstin comfortable. She was so strong and brave! She breathed through some pretty intense pains until she had an epidural to give her a chance to rest.

About 9 hours later, it was time. With Chris, Kerri and I supporting Kirstin, this new life emerged right before our eyes. What a miracle! "Hello Collin Mitchell!" "I love you!!!!" He answered back with a tiny yelp and it was music to our ears! Chris was pretty overwhelmed and asked Kerri to cut the cord. She did and Collin was placed in Kirstin's arms. There was not a dry eye in the room.

Collin weighed 6 lbs 5 oz and is 18.5 in long. His hair is jet black, his eyes are dark. His feet are long and skinny! He is perfect. His cry is sweet music. His little noises are soothing. His scent would bring in millions if it could be bottled. He is wonderful. He is pure. He is my grandson.

Kirstin brought him over to my house today. As we looked at his precious little face, she asked Collin where he's been all her life. She said she feels complete. I told her now she knows how much I love HER. We cried a little, happy tears full of love. For Collin and for each other.

Daddy, Mommy and Collin

Gramma and Collin
Emily, Grampa and Collin

Summer Running In Florida

I cannot believe it's been a month since I've posted! My husband had his successful lumbar fusion May 5th and we've been soooo enjoying our time together. Until now. The kids are out of school for the summer. We are not alone anymore. We have to share each other with the kidlings. Sigh. It was nice while it lasted. Bobby goes back to work a week from Saturday. We are staying on Siesta Key Beach for a few days as our last hurrah! Kids included.

Now for my running news. I am slowly getting back into it. I work with a young lady named Kayla who is a runner! YAY! She mentioned that she hadn't run in a longggg time and wanted to do the Firecracker 5K. I just so happen to be on the committee for that race and I was thrilled to hear her interest. YAHOO!! I also have been in the market for a new runner friend since Reg went back to Canada (I have a little story about him...later)

Kayla and I have worked out a schedule where we can run together 3 times a week. She told me she was slow and hadn't run in quite some time. PPPFFFFTTT!!! Our first run together showed me a little of what this chick is made of! She can run!! I can see she is a natural runner. Her breathing, rhythm and posture are very good. She has such a quiet landing I can barely hear her. I am thrilled she is not in my age group. What??? I am competitive....lol. Kayla is only in Florida until the end of July. Then she goes off to Japan with her Marine husband. I won't think about that until the time comes! =(

This Saturday I'll run my 1st 5K race since Easter. Last year we had a young mother from our town get kidnapped, raped and murdered. The story is horrendous. Her husband has completely absorbed himself in keeping her memory alive for their two young boys. This race is for her, Denise Amber Lee.

Kayla is contemplating running this 5K and I hope she does. It'll give her a PR for the 5K in July. She's a little nervous and not sure she's ready, but I know she is. I'm so excited for her!

Medically, things have been really good. The meds the doc gave me are helping immensely. If things continue this way, I'll have new goals!!

Speaking of new goals...remember my Canadian friend, Reg? He jokes that every time I ask him a question about things he's done and he says he hasn't done them, he winds up doing them.

For instance,
I asked if he'd done a half marathon. He said no. Now he has.
Ever fall while running? Never. He fell during the half marathon.
Like to race? No, not competitive. Now he's thinking about speed.
Seen a snake yet? Nope (thanked God under his breath) Found a snake in the house he was renting!

Reg told me not to ask him anymore questions. They're like little omens I guess. So last week, I sent him an email. All I said was: Have you ever run a full marathon? He answered with one sentence: No, I have not run a full marathon.

TeeHee. I just sent him a book. I can't wait for him to get it! It's called "4 Months To A 4 Hour Marathon". Haha!! I'm taking a chance writing it in here, but I can't hold it in any longer! He'll be back in November, which is 4 months to the Sarasota Grouper Marathon. Perfect huh? I think so too. I wonder what Reg will think...lol...

Feelin' Groovy

Thanks for all the kind comments on my current donut fixation! They are delish, eh???

I am having a glorious week! I feel good and even got in a fab yoga workout with my peeps at the YMCA! It was good to see everyone and get back in the swing.

I ran 1.5 miles right after that class and felt pretty darn wonderful!!! I haven't had a chance to get in any more running this week between my doctor visits and helping my husband get ready for his SPINAL FUSION this coming Tuesday. That's right, surgery for a man who hasn't missed a day of work in about 14 years. And that was one day where he was deathly ill. Still only missed one day, the maniac.

He'll be home with me for 6 weeks. He will be going ape shit within week #2, I just know it. I'm starting the "honey-do" list tonight. All joking aside, he's very healthy and he's soooo ready to have his surgery behind him. I'll just be here to keep him comfy and happy.

Gotta run...kids are coming!!!!!

Still On Break

I haven't been able to run since Easter.
I just ate 3 donuts.
That's all I have for today.

Getting My Groove Back

The past week has been busy. Not much running, but I did get a 5K in the day before Easter. It was the "Eggs and Ears" 5K in Fort Myers. I was not feeling well, a little nauseous and had a headache. I think I've had a headache for about 8-10 weeks now. My left eye hurts too but what can ya do????

My friend Josephine has a pulled hamstring but she wanted to run this race. She usually gets the Senior Grand Master Award with an average time of 25 minutes so I've NEVER beat her. I'm usually thrilled to have her in my sights at these races!! We both decided to be happy if we made it across the finish line under 30 minutes.

My iPod really helps me do a little meditating thing when I run. I can almost leave my body, no kidding. I had my Garmin on and I checked it periodically and saw I was hanging in at a 9:45 pace. Fine with that! BUT WAIT!!!! As we made the turn at the halfway point, I saw a woman jump the median! I never saw a cheater before! I got all fired up and actually passed her. I got a good look at her and was prepared to tattle if she attempted to accept an award. Which she didn't, lucky for her.

At about this point I caught up with Josephine. She was struggling and in pain. I was holding my steady pace, about 9:10 by then. I thought I could pass her but it felt so wrong! I knew if I did, I'd only be doing it because she is injured. Seemed unfair. Seemed like a golden opportunity too...LOL. Josephine knows I love her and I figured she wouldn't mind me beating her JUST THIS ONCE. So when I saw the 3 mile marker I kicked it up like I always do at that point. I did beat her, but it will be the last time. After the race we laughed, I love her!

After I got through the finish line I went and sat between 2 cars in the parking lot for about 15 minutes in case I puked. I felt awful, but I ran it. 28:34, 30 seconds ahead of Jo...lol. I never did get sick but I'm still nauseous today, 4 days later. UGH.

I actually placed 3rd in my age group! What a surprise. All in all, it was a great day. The medal is on a pink ribbon, my favorite color.

Reg left Monday morning for Canada. We had a great Easter dinner with Reg and his Mom. It was a perfect way to send them off. Reg called this morning to let me know he made it home in one piece. I miss him already! He was my motivator and support system. Now what am I gonna do???????

My last MRI came back fine! YAY for that! I asked my doctor if that meant I didn't need to see the MS Specialist and he said I still need to go. I looked up "normal MRI with MS" and I guess that doesn't rule it out, it only helps for a quicker diagnosis. Spinal tap it is, folks. Fun stuff. From what I understand, you need to lie flat for 24 hours after a spinal tap. Sounds like a little "ME" time....lol. The "happy medicine" is wonderful. I can deal with this so much better.

Thank you once again for the kind emails and comments. It really makes me feel better!!!
xxxooo
Kim

Back To Running

First, thank you all for the tremendous caring and support you've given. It means the world to me. My family and friends, at home and here in blogland, you've helped me get my determination back. Thank you, thank you!

I ran today for the first time in 16 days! It's good to get that over with. Now I can stop worrying if it'll ever happen. I barely had any pain, which is nice. The weird thing was that I kept losing track of my feet/legs. It felt like they were not in sync with the rest of me. I finally did a 30 second walk to get my groove back but I think I'm running like I dance. A little O-F-F....lol

I did 3.1 in 30:31. No PR, but I will not be complaining today. I saw the doc Monday and he gave me a little something to help me "cope". And it's working BABAYYYYY! I was on the verge of freaking out. Ok, I was deeply into freaking out. Neck deep. It was a mistake to Google "MS". I promised myself not to do that anymore until I have a concrete diagnosis. Or until I think of something I need to check out about it. Which reminds me..............................just kidding!

I go for another MRI in the morning. My husband hates those. I think of them as a little vacation. Doesn't bother me at all.

Easter is Sunday. It's also my 13th wedding anniversary! We're having 14 people over. Reg is coming too! Reg leaves for Canada Monday. I thought it would be a great day for them to come hang out and have a nice visit before they leave. I am going to miss him. Reg and I have become very good friends. He'll be back in November and I'll be waiting with my Asics on!!!!!

Happy Easter everyone!!!!