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!!!!
Showing posts with label kims running now. Show all posts
Showing posts with label kims running now. Show all posts
Monday, September 27, 2010
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
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!!!
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!!!
Friday, April 23, 2010
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!!
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!!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Back To Blogging
Training for the Sarasota Half Marathon (3-15-10) begins Saturday, Nov 21st. I have read and reread "4 Hours To A 4 Hour Marathon" at least 4 times. I bought this book when I was attempting to begin to qualify for Boston last year. "Space Coast Marathon" was to be my 4:40, last year's "Sarasota Grouper" was to be my 4:20 and then this year's "Space Coast" I wanted to be REALLY optimistic and go for the 3:50:59 to run Boston 2010.
That never happened and I was so bummed. I've been optimistically hopeful about getting some miles in. I decided that if I could do 8 miles by Nov 21st, I would get back to training. Last Saturday I did the 7 miler and survived it! This Saturday is the 8 mile run that will signify my being back in training. I am thrilled, excited, hopeful and most of all...READY!
This book has training guides for finishing times anywhere from 4 hours up to 5 hours, depending on your level of running and your goals. I've tailored it down for a half marathon with 4 months to train. There's a tiny kernel of hope that when I get to week 6 (15 miler) I may be able to do it. If I can, I am going to continue on with the training and attempt the full. So, yes...I'll be really doing the full marathon training for the first 6 weeks. This gives me the opportunity to pull back and be satisfied with the half if need be. I'm following the 4 hour guide knowing full well I can switch to a slower guide at any time. Have I convinced you? LOL...
The reason I'm training this way is because, truth be told...the problems I'm having with my muscles are not new. I just didn't understand that the pain was not normal when I started running. Nov 2, 2007 was the first time I ever ran, and I got right into training for the full marathon to be run on Mar 2, 2008. I ran one marathon while having these problems...I can do it again, right????
That's right folks!!! 4 months into running and I completed a marathon. I see now what a feat that was. (do I sound all proud of myself???...LOL) At the time I had no clue. To many things. So it took me 5:33:38 to get to the finish line. Not w/o injuries. I ran through pains that I should have seen as a signal that something wasn't quite right, but I didn't know. Now I do know...armed with all these valuable lessons learned, I'm ready to take on my 2nd marathon. I'm wondering if, by ignoring the signals last year, if I damaged my body to the point that I couldn't run at all... Who knows? I'll find out this time by paying closer attention.
I will also be paying closer attention to nutrition this time. My husband and I are discussing the P90X program. So far it looks like the perfect program to go hand in hand with my training. My husband just had 2 back surgeries since May and he's ready to get back to cycling and the gym. He's feeling very unenergetic, tired and a little down. I think doing this program together will benefit both of us.
If any of you have done this P90X let me know how you like(d) it. I know a few people who are doing it and they LOVE it...they look fabulous too!!!
I just peeked at the schedule and I see I'm supposed to do 7 miles this Saturday, not 8. And 9 miles the 2nd week...and the training pace the first couple weeks for the 4 hour marry is 10:40 to 11:10. I think my pace for the 7 miler last Saturday was 10:15. I'm screwing it up already....LOL
So I'll do 7 again this weekend. =P
That never happened and I was so bummed. I've been optimistically hopeful about getting some miles in. I decided that if I could do 8 miles by Nov 21st, I would get back to training. Last Saturday I did the 7 miler and survived it! This Saturday is the 8 mile run that will signify my being back in training. I am thrilled, excited, hopeful and most of all...READY!
This book has training guides for finishing times anywhere from 4 hours up to 5 hours, depending on your level of running and your goals. I've tailored it down for a half marathon with 4 months to train. There's a tiny kernel of hope that when I get to week 6 (15 miler) I may be able to do it. If I can, I am going to continue on with the training and attempt the full. So, yes...I'll be really doing the full marathon training for the first 6 weeks. This gives me the opportunity to pull back and be satisfied with the half if need be. I'm following the 4 hour guide knowing full well I can switch to a slower guide at any time. Have I convinced you? LOL...
The reason I'm training this way is because, truth be told...the problems I'm having with my muscles are not new. I just didn't understand that the pain was not normal when I started running. Nov 2, 2007 was the first time I ever ran, and I got right into training for the full marathon to be run on Mar 2, 2008. I ran one marathon while having these problems...I can do it again, right????
That's right folks!!! 4 months into running and I completed a marathon. I see now what a feat that was. (do I sound all proud of myself???...LOL) At the time I had no clue. To many things. So it took me 5:33:38 to get to the finish line. Not w/o injuries. I ran through pains that I should have seen as a signal that something wasn't quite right, but I didn't know. Now I do know...armed with all these valuable lessons learned, I'm ready to take on my 2nd marathon. I'm wondering if, by ignoring the signals last year, if I damaged my body to the point that I couldn't run at all... Who knows? I'll find out this time by paying closer attention.
I will also be paying closer attention to nutrition this time. My husband and I are discussing the P90X program. So far it looks like the perfect program to go hand in hand with my training. My husband just had 2 back surgeries since May and he's ready to get back to cycling and the gym. He's feeling very unenergetic, tired and a little down. I think doing this program together will benefit both of us.
If any of you have done this P90X let me know how you like(d) it. I know a few people who are doing it and they LOVE it...they look fabulous too!!!
I just peeked at the schedule and I see I'm supposed to do 7 miles this Saturday, not 8. And 9 miles the 2nd week...and the training pace the first couple weeks for the 4 hour marry is 10:40 to 11:10. I think my pace for the 7 miler last Saturday was 10:15. I'm screwing it up already....LOL
So I'll do 7 again this weekend. =P
Friday, August 21, 2009
I Have Some News!
First of all...thank you so much for your kind comments and emails! The support that comes from all of you helps more than I can put into words! Thank you, thank you!! xoxoxoxoxoxo
Ok...Dr K from Tampa called me yesterday to let me know I DO NOT HAVE MS! Oh happiness!!! My EEG stuff all looked great, so the Lyrica is doing it's job. The last 5-6 weeks of headaches/vomiting etc was from the spinal tap. Dr K said that headachy people do not do well with spinal taps. I coulda used that little gem of information, I'll tell ya. I honestly thought I was dying. Even had my funeral music picked out on a playlist in iTunes. No kidding. Ok, I'm kidding. I'm not that gruesome. Hardly.
The MRI showed a past bleed or enlarged artery deep inside my brain. Doc says it's old and healed and there's really no way to tell when it happened or if it's the cause of my seizures. He said he's pretty sure it shouldn't be a problem for the future but it's something to remember if I ever get a blinding headache. Ok...noted!!!
So what's the problem with my muscles??? He's not sure as he's an MS expert, but he did say it could be metabolic. He mentioned I probably won't be running any more marathons. Oh...yes...he...did..say...that!!!! He doesn't know me too well, now does he??? I actually laughed on the phone when he said that! He laughed and said ok, but he didn't reccommend me doing a tri because of the swimming. Which at first I didn't let register, but my husband says he probably thought it wouldn't be good if I was out doing a 2 mile swim and my muscles decided to quit on me. Being out swimming wouldn't be an ideal place for THAT to happen. As I've never had the urge to be shark bait, I won't worry about that.
Me being me and having major access to Google...I perused the buffet of medical problems and found something I could use. (LOL) There's a metabolic "thing" called "McArdle's Disease" that fits my pain-in-the-ass (and legs) symptoms. While I am not convinced of anything until I see my Doc next week, I was surprised to see one thing that really stood out: "What Do Marathon Runners And McArdle's Disease Have In Common?" Turns out that they both have trouble with the glycogen "hitting the wall" thing. Which is how I feel after running a shorty these days! I went ahead and emailed Doc K in Tampa with my slueth-like findings. I will have an answer to this!!!
So anyway...I got the go ahead to start my training back up. I am going to go slow. I want to try a few things that I read about with the glycogen replenish stuff. Elizabeth (LIZ as I fondly call her) has been getting into this subject and I will be gathering info from her. She has her wee little 16 miler planned this weekend. I figure 16 miles might be a tad too much for me right now, so I'm going to meet her there around 8am on my bike and then run the last couple miles with her.
Let the games (re) begin!!!!!
Hugs to all!!!!!!
Ok...Dr K from Tampa called me yesterday to let me know I DO NOT HAVE MS! Oh happiness!!! My EEG stuff all looked great, so the Lyrica is doing it's job. The last 5-6 weeks of headaches/vomiting etc was from the spinal tap. Dr K said that headachy people do not do well with spinal taps. I coulda used that little gem of information, I'll tell ya. I honestly thought I was dying. Even had my funeral music picked out on a playlist in iTunes. No kidding. Ok, I'm kidding. I'm not that gruesome. Hardly.
The MRI showed a past bleed or enlarged artery deep inside my brain. Doc says it's old and healed and there's really no way to tell when it happened or if it's the cause of my seizures. He said he's pretty sure it shouldn't be a problem for the future but it's something to remember if I ever get a blinding headache. Ok...noted!!!
So what's the problem with my muscles??? He's not sure as he's an MS expert, but he did say it could be metabolic. He mentioned I probably won't be running any more marathons. Oh...yes...he...did..say...that!!!! He doesn't know me too well, now does he??? I actually laughed on the phone when he said that! He laughed and said ok, but he didn't reccommend me doing a tri because of the swimming. Which at first I didn't let register, but my husband says he probably thought it wouldn't be good if I was out doing a 2 mile swim and my muscles decided to quit on me. Being out swimming wouldn't be an ideal place for THAT to happen. As I've never had the urge to be shark bait, I won't worry about that.
Me being me and having major access to Google...I perused the buffet of medical problems and found something I could use. (LOL) There's a metabolic "thing" called "McArdle's Disease" that fits my pain-in-the-ass (and legs) symptoms. While I am not convinced of anything until I see my Doc next week, I was surprised to see one thing that really stood out: "What Do Marathon Runners And McArdle's Disease Have In Common?" Turns out that they both have trouble with the glycogen "hitting the wall" thing. Which is how I feel after running a shorty these days! I went ahead and emailed Doc K in Tampa with my slueth-like findings. I will have an answer to this!!!
So anyway...I got the go ahead to start my training back up. I am going to go slow. I want to try a few things that I read about with the glycogen replenish stuff. Elizabeth (LIZ as I fondly call her) has been getting into this subject and I will be gathering info from her. She has her wee little 16 miler planned this weekend. I figure 16 miles might be a tad too much for me right now, so I'm going to meet her there around 8am on my bike and then run the last couple miles with her.
Let the games (re) begin!!!!!
Hugs to all!!!!!!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Evening Runs Are Awesome!!
I ran with my girlie Elizabeth last night. It was still light out, as I figured, but it still had an early evening feel to it. We ran from Elizabeth's house, which is a little like farm country. The houses are farther apart and set back from the road, making the route very peaceful and serene. Some families do have horses so I could smell them. Call me a weirdo, but I actually love that smell...lol. It reminds me of the summers when I used to stay with my Aunt Rozanne in New Hampshire.
I went every summer from age 5 to about 11 or so. She had a farm with goats, chickens, cows, dogs, cats and even bees! And of course, she had a horse named Firefly. A great big Morgan. I'd give anything to lay in that pasture again. Picking raspberries and strawberries. Listening to nature. It was pretty cool to leave the city every summer and spend that time with my Aunt. She passed away from cancer in 1987. I still think of her all the time, and miss her.
ENOUGH NOSTALGIA!!!!!
So Elizabeth....she doesn't like to be called Liz, Lizzy or Beth. I save those names for when she runs ahead of me, only she can't hear me cuz I'm too far behind. Clever, I know. Anyway, Elizabeth and I headed out. Even talking, we were running at a 9 minute pace. She has MUCHO endurance because she'd been training for a half marathon recently. She wound up with the flu and missed it so she changed her plan to do a full in December. I kept up until we hit 2 miles. Then I had to walk. In fact, I had to walk 4 more times in the next 2 miles. I was soooo frustrated! Elizabeth ran up ahead and turned back a few times to let me wallow in my misery alone. I didn't wallow for long. I ran when I could, walked when I couldn't. I'll get it back.
After the run we talked outside until the mosquitos came. They're as big as dragonflies! I thought I got eaten alive but I don't itch at all today. Probably a good thing because we'd still be out there talking!
I went to my exercise classes this morning but left early. I had (have still) a wicked headache. I'm waiting for the drugs to kick in right now. I have to work tonight.
Saturday's plan is a 5K "Run 4 Reason" in Punta Gorda. Steph is running it with me. Elizabeth has her little 14 miler that day so she's skipping the race. Whatever Lizzy. Fine with me Beth. Have fun with that Liz. HA!! Just kiddin'. I'm so jealous. I would love to run 14 miles with her! I need to find out if Maria is racing....she works most weekends. Maria runs a 19-20 minute 5k. So it's not like we'd see her anyway....LOL
Ok, off to do some laundry before work.
Happy running!!!
I went every summer from age 5 to about 11 or so. She had a farm with goats, chickens, cows, dogs, cats and even bees! And of course, she had a horse named Firefly. A great big Morgan. I'd give anything to lay in that pasture again. Picking raspberries and strawberries. Listening to nature. It was pretty cool to leave the city every summer and spend that time with my Aunt. She passed away from cancer in 1987. I still think of her all the time, and miss her.
ENOUGH NOSTALGIA!!!!!
So Elizabeth....she doesn't like to be called Liz, Lizzy or Beth. I save those names for when she runs ahead of me, only she can't hear me cuz I'm too far behind. Clever, I know. Anyway, Elizabeth and I headed out. Even talking, we were running at a 9 minute pace. She has MUCHO endurance because she'd been training for a half marathon recently. She wound up with the flu and missed it so she changed her plan to do a full in December. I kept up until we hit 2 miles. Then I had to walk. In fact, I had to walk 4 more times in the next 2 miles. I was soooo frustrated! Elizabeth ran up ahead and turned back a few times to let me wallow in my misery alone. I didn't wallow for long. I ran when I could, walked when I couldn't. I'll get it back.
After the run we talked outside until the mosquitos came. They're as big as dragonflies! I thought I got eaten alive but I don't itch at all today. Probably a good thing because we'd still be out there talking!
I went to my exercise classes this morning but left early. I had (have still) a wicked headache. I'm waiting for the drugs to kick in right now. I have to work tonight.
Saturday's plan is a 5K "Run 4 Reason" in Punta Gorda. Steph is running it with me. Elizabeth has her little 14 miler that day so she's skipping the race. Whatever Lizzy. Fine with me Beth. Have fun with that Liz. HA!! Just kiddin'. I'm so jealous. I would love to run 14 miles with her! I need to find out if Maria is racing....she works most weekends. Maria runs a 19-20 minute 5k. So it's not like we'd see her anyway....LOL
Ok, off to do some laundry before work.
Happy running!!!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Misc Updates...
I haven't been out running for almost 2 weeks. Blah. The first three days of neglect were fine because my grandson, Collin was born and he's worth missing some exercise. The other 7 days were not spent in a fun way.
Had a spinal tap gone wrong. That put me in bed for 5 days before I decided the doctor was correct in his assumption that I had a spinal leak and needed to go back to the hospital. After 15 hours in the emergency room, they patched the leak. Let's just say that wasn't a good time. Let's also just say I will never have another spinal tap fer nuthin'.
Today I left my house at 6am for 2 appointments up in Tampa (1.5 hours away) Got there, got lost IN THE HOSPITAL, cried to some unknown woman who was sweet enough to walk me to where I was supposed to be. (1.5 hours LATE). My tears must have scared the women at the desk because they got me in to see the doc anyway. It pays to be overwhelmed.
After that test I had to drive to a different area for the MRI series. Should have been 20 minutes. Took me over an hour. BUT...I made it there 20 minutes early! I hate driving in strange cities! Spent a relaxing 2 hours in the MRI machine. Ooohhh...good times. Even had headphones with music. Too bad the bangs from the machine drowned the ability to hear those songs. I think I fell asleep in there. In the end, I found my way home just fine, even if it did take 2 hours to get home. With no traffic. I found peace, solace if you will, in that car ride home. Just me 'n the tunes.
Doc says no strenuous activities until Wednesday. I might hit yoga tomorrow night. I also might try one other strenuous activity this evening...teehee! =)
Anyway...this could be MS or some other kind of central nervous system disorder. Maybe even an auto-immune disease. I vote for a vitamin deficiency! Sounds way easier to fix if you ask me. No matter what, I plan on continuing with my life just the way it is, only with drugs and alcohol if need be. Just kiddin....mebbeeee. I have a stash of stuff in my drawer for "just-in-case". Kiddin.
I was laying in bed last night thinking about "what on my body does not hurt"...I know, I know...seems like an odd thing to think about. But that's ME...looking for a positive. Guess what doesn't hurt. AT ALL. EVER. My glutes. It's true. I don't have a pain in the ass. Isn't that nice? Speaking of asses....I decided I want a heart shaped ass. Upside down heart shaped. Wouldn't that be cute? Not that you'd ever know. I'd never show anyone. Well...maybe I would if it was that cute, I dunno.
Had a spinal tap gone wrong. That put me in bed for 5 days before I decided the doctor was correct in his assumption that I had a spinal leak and needed to go back to the hospital. After 15 hours in the emergency room, they patched the leak. Let's just say that wasn't a good time. Let's also just say I will never have another spinal tap fer nuthin'.
Today I left my house at 6am for 2 appointments up in Tampa (1.5 hours away) Got there, got lost IN THE HOSPITAL, cried to some unknown woman who was sweet enough to walk me to where I was supposed to be. (1.5 hours LATE). My tears must have scared the women at the desk because they got me in to see the doc anyway. It pays to be overwhelmed.
After that test I had to drive to a different area for the MRI series. Should have been 20 minutes. Took me over an hour. BUT...I made it there 20 minutes early! I hate driving in strange cities! Spent a relaxing 2 hours in the MRI machine. Ooohhh...good times. Even had headphones with music. Too bad the bangs from the machine drowned the ability to hear those songs. I think I fell asleep in there. In the end, I found my way home just fine, even if it did take 2 hours to get home. With no traffic. I found peace, solace if you will, in that car ride home. Just me 'n the tunes.
Doc says no strenuous activities until Wednesday. I might hit yoga tomorrow night. I also might try one other strenuous activity this evening...teehee! =)
Anyway...this could be MS or some other kind of central nervous system disorder. Maybe even an auto-immune disease. I vote for a vitamin deficiency! Sounds way easier to fix if you ask me. No matter what, I plan on continuing with my life just the way it is, only with drugs and alcohol if need be. Just kiddin....mebbeeee. I have a stash of stuff in my drawer for "just-in-case". Kiddin.
I was laying in bed last night thinking about "what on my body does not hurt"...I know, I know...seems like an odd thing to think about. But that's ME...looking for a positive. Guess what doesn't hurt. AT ALL. EVER. My glutes. It's true. I don't have a pain in the ass. Isn't that nice? Speaking of asses....I decided I want a heart shaped ass. Upside down heart shaped. Wouldn't that be cute? Not that you'd ever know. I'd never show anyone. Well...maybe I would if it was that cute, I dunno.
I have a 6 mile run planned for Wednesday morning with Elizabeth. I'm really excited about hooking up with her because we're the same age, same pace and we're both WOMEN! Yes...it's true! Only she has more endurance than me right now. That's a good thing as it will keep me on my competitive toes! Elizabeth has a full marathon planned for December. Her first one! I really want to run that one with her. I'd kill to finish in 4:20...LOL...what??? I can dream, can't I?????
Thursday, July 16, 2009
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.
Daddy, Mommy and Collin
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
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Firecracker 5K Race Report
I was sweating by 6:15am. It was THAT hot 'n humid today. I was on this race committee and had registration duty which is the only reason I was there so early. Cindy was there with her 3 month old daughter, Emily Grace so what I REALLY did was hold the baby until she fell asleep, then I handed out t-shirts. Ha!! Grandma practice!!!
Kim and Kayla at the Firecracker 5K!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kayla came in with her husband Josh around 7am and I could tell she was a little nervous/excited. We wore gray tops and black shorts so we could match (it's a girl thing). Deb showed up soaked and out of breath. Seems she decided to "warm up" with a 6 mile bike ride to the race. Gotta love Deb....LOL...and I do!!! Steph and Elizabeth came soon after. All of us were excited for Kayla's 1st race!
We were NOT excited about the heat and humidity. We usually run at 6:30am and yeah, it's still hot but even an hour later it gets BRUTAL. I could only hope some people had their sprinklers on to run through!
One really cool thing that happened...when the national anthem was being sung, someone from the front started singing along. One by one everyone joined in. It was such a touching moment. It gave us pause to think about our men and women over in Iraq. Hopefully they stay safe and come home to their families soon.
The horn went off and away we went. Starting off already hot and sweaty was making us feel like it might be a tough run. It was. We did the "hop-around-the-kids" dance and got through that without a fall. I love seeing the kids there but they tend to run in a zig-zag pattern...haha! We made it to the first mile in 9:15, very nice. I looked over at Kayla and she was going strong! We got to the half way turning point where our friend Ed was monitoring and he gave us the lucky high 5. We made the turn in just over 14 minutes. I was PUMPED! Kayla's goal was to come in under 30 minutes and I sooo wanted to see her make that time.
By the time we got to the 2 mile marker the sun was just beating down on us. Sweat was pouring off all of us. We slowed a bit about here. Kayla wanted to go without a walk break but with the elements being what they were I pulled a coach card and called a 20 second walk. I pointed out that the crowd wasn't really getting very far ahead of us. Everyone was slowing down.
After a quick (silent) evaluation of any health issues (like heat exhaustion) we started back up. We caught up to the crowd we were basically with when we took the shorty walk break. When we saw the 3 mile marker we kicked it up a notch. It looked like a close one to come in under 30 minutes. When we saw the finish line we booked it in to the sounds of Michelle (Kayla's sister) and Josh screaming for Kayla!!!! It was so exciting!!! We made it in in 30:02! Soaked with sweat and looking for water.
I was worried Kayla would be disappointed we missed it by 3 seconds but she was thrilled! I reminded her we actually took at least 7 seconds to get to the starting line, so in REALITY we did finish in 29:54. Josh and Steph agreed. These are the times I wish we had chips. Anyway, Kayla wanted to take off before the parade got started but I talked her into waiting for awards. What she didn't know was I have CONNECTIONS and found out she PLACED IN HER AGE GROUP and had a medal coming to her! And the really cool thing was...my friend Kimmi and I were the award announcers and I was going to be able to call her name! OMG...can I even get my feelings across in this blog???? No, I cannot.
At the women's age 25-29...2nd place in her age group...KAYLA!!! I had tears, I swear! My voice even cracked a little. I am so very HAPPY!!! After all the awards went out I ran over for big sweaty hugs!! She is so thrilled! Kayla had a surprise for me! She gave me a gift certificate for a massage!!! How sweet is that?!? I am looking forward to that, I'll tell ya!
Today was a satisfying finish to a wonderful training with Kayla. We trained hard together, running at the crack of dawn. In the rain. In the heat. Even swimming through the humidity. We had fun, we ached and sweated, we planned for this day with excitement. Our friendship built strong and quickly over such a short period of time. Kayla leaves for Japan next week and I will miss her terribly. She is sweet, fun, intelligent and so full of life! I predict many more medals coming her way. I am genuinely blessed to have her for a friend.
Kim and Kayla at the Firecracker 5K!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kayla came in with her husband Josh around 7am and I could tell she was a little nervous/excited. We wore gray tops and black shorts so we could match (it's a girl thing). Deb showed up soaked and out of breath. Seems she decided to "warm up" with a 6 mile bike ride to the race. Gotta love Deb....LOL...and I do!!! Steph and Elizabeth came soon after. All of us were excited for Kayla's 1st race!
We were NOT excited about the heat and humidity. We usually run at 6:30am and yeah, it's still hot but even an hour later it gets BRUTAL. I could only hope some people had their sprinklers on to run through!
One really cool thing that happened...when the national anthem was being sung, someone from the front started singing along. One by one everyone joined in. It was such a touching moment. It gave us pause to think about our men and women over in Iraq. Hopefully they stay safe and come home to their families soon.
The horn went off and away we went. Starting off already hot and sweaty was making us feel like it might be a tough run. It was. We did the "hop-around-the-kids" dance and got through that without a fall. I love seeing the kids there but they tend to run in a zig-zag pattern...haha! We made it to the first mile in 9:15, very nice. I looked over at Kayla and she was going strong! We got to the half way turning point where our friend Ed was monitoring and he gave us the lucky high 5. We made the turn in just over 14 minutes. I was PUMPED! Kayla's goal was to come in under 30 minutes and I sooo wanted to see her make that time.
By the time we got to the 2 mile marker the sun was just beating down on us. Sweat was pouring off all of us. We slowed a bit about here. Kayla wanted to go without a walk break but with the elements being what they were I pulled a coach card and called a 20 second walk. I pointed out that the crowd wasn't really getting very far ahead of us. Everyone was slowing down.
After a quick (silent) evaluation of any health issues (like heat exhaustion) we started back up. We caught up to the crowd we were basically with when we took the shorty walk break. When we saw the 3 mile marker we kicked it up a notch. It looked like a close one to come in under 30 minutes. When we saw the finish line we booked it in to the sounds of Michelle (Kayla's sister) and Josh screaming for Kayla!!!! It was so exciting!!! We made it in in 30:02! Soaked with sweat and looking for water.
I was worried Kayla would be disappointed we missed it by 3 seconds but she was thrilled! I reminded her we actually took at least 7 seconds to get to the starting line, so in REALITY we did finish in 29:54. Josh and Steph agreed. These are the times I wish we had chips. Anyway, Kayla wanted to take off before the parade got started but I talked her into waiting for awards. What she didn't know was I have CONNECTIONS and found out she PLACED IN HER AGE GROUP and had a medal coming to her! And the really cool thing was...my friend Kimmi and I were the award announcers and I was going to be able to call her name! OMG...can I even get my feelings across in this blog???? No, I cannot.
At the women's age 25-29...2nd place in her age group...KAYLA!!! I had tears, I swear! My voice even cracked a little. I am so very HAPPY!!! After all the awards went out I ran over for big sweaty hugs!! She is so thrilled! Kayla had a surprise for me! She gave me a gift certificate for a massage!!! How sweet is that?!? I am looking forward to that, I'll tell ya!
Today was a satisfying finish to a wonderful training with Kayla. We trained hard together, running at the crack of dawn. In the rain. In the heat. Even swimming through the humidity. We had fun, we ached and sweated, we planned for this day with excitement. Our friendship built strong and quickly over such a short period of time. Kayla leaves for Japan next week and I will miss her terribly. She is sweet, fun, intelligent and so full of life! I predict many more medals coming her way. I am genuinely blessed to have her for a friend.
Friday, July 3, 2009
I Think I'm Back Now...
It's been a very busy few months here in my world. My husband had his lumbar fusion. He was home for 6 weeks and just went back to work! He's feeling great and has no pain after 25 years of back problems. Very happy about that!
My daughter, Kirstin is having a baby!! Very soon, in fact. She saw the doc last Tuesday and she's 2 centimeters! (I cried) I can't believe we're going to be grandparents!!! His name is Collin Mitchell and I love him already.
I cut down on my work hours to spend the summer with my 2 youngest kids. They usually go to day camp for the summers but I see them growing up so fast that we decided to take this summer to spend together. It's not as fun/easy as I thought it would be (LOL) but I'm still happy to be able to spend this time with them.
I am still having problems with my legs etc. I'm about to begin a gluten-free diet. I also have 2 days worth of testing up in Tampa coming up which includes the dreaded spinal tap. I hope to have some concrete answers some time in this century.
I have been running with my friend Kayla 3 times a week, legs permitting. She has been a God-send because she keeps me going. Kayla leaves for Japan with her Marine husband next week and I will miss her so much!
We've been training for Kayla's very first 5K race! How exciting is THAT?? She had a goal of completing it in under 30 minutes and guess what? We ran a test 5k at race pace and she came in at 29:25!!!! I'm sooo proud of her!!! I honestly believe she will finish in 27:30. We do long runs every Saturday and have gotten up to 5 miles. I think Kayla is going to be a distance runner. She has all the signs and symptoms of loving the distance runs....lol. Before she leaves on Friday we plan to get a 10K run in. Maybe a little farther, we'll see. Kayla hopes to find some runner friends on base. I know she will, she's a sweetie!!!
We ran an easy 4 miles yesterday. Kayla doesn't usually talk when we run but this time we chatted the entire time. We finished the 4 miles without stopping and we both felt like we could have gone on forever. Proof this girl is a distance chick! She's fired up!!!!!! Mee toooo!!!!!!!
Tomorrow is "race day"...4th Of July 5K. I can't wait to see how Kayla feels about racing. I'm betting she's gonna LOVE it!!! I am also looking forward to seeing my fellow Zoomers Running Group. http://www.zoomersrun.com/ in case you're curious! I haven't seen some of them in a while.
I will be posting a race report tomorrow night. Hopefully I'll have some pictures too!!
I miss my blogging friends! Hopefully I still have some! =)
xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
My daughter, Kirstin is having a baby!! Very soon, in fact. She saw the doc last Tuesday and she's 2 centimeters! (I cried) I can't believe we're going to be grandparents!!! His name is Collin Mitchell and I love him already.
I cut down on my work hours to spend the summer with my 2 youngest kids. They usually go to day camp for the summers but I see them growing up so fast that we decided to take this summer to spend together. It's not as fun/easy as I thought it would be (LOL) but I'm still happy to be able to spend this time with them.
I am still having problems with my legs etc. I'm about to begin a gluten-free diet. I also have 2 days worth of testing up in Tampa coming up which includes the dreaded spinal tap. I hope to have some concrete answers some time in this century.
I have been running with my friend Kayla 3 times a week, legs permitting. She has been a God-send because she keeps me going. Kayla leaves for Japan with her Marine husband next week and I will miss her so much!
We've been training for Kayla's very first 5K race! How exciting is THAT?? She had a goal of completing it in under 30 minutes and guess what? We ran a test 5k at race pace and she came in at 29:25!!!! I'm sooo proud of her!!! I honestly believe she will finish in 27:30. We do long runs every Saturday and have gotten up to 5 miles. I think Kayla is going to be a distance runner. She has all the signs and symptoms of loving the distance runs....lol. Before she leaves on Friday we plan to get a 10K run in. Maybe a little farther, we'll see. Kayla hopes to find some runner friends on base. I know she will, she's a sweetie!!!
We ran an easy 4 miles yesterday. Kayla doesn't usually talk when we run but this time we chatted the entire time. We finished the 4 miles without stopping and we both felt like we could have gone on forever. Proof this girl is a distance chick! She's fired up!!!!!! Mee toooo!!!!!!!
Tomorrow is "race day"...4th Of July 5K. I can't wait to see how Kayla feels about racing. I'm betting she's gonna LOVE it!!! I am also looking forward to seeing my fellow Zoomers Running Group. http://www.zoomersrun.com/ in case you're curious! I haven't seen some of them in a while.
I will be posting a race report tomorrow night. Hopefully I'll have some pictures too!!
I miss my blogging friends! Hopefully I still have some! =)
xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
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
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
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Venice St Patty's Day 8K
My running habits have become a little erratic. I'm lucky if I get out there twice a week these days. That being said....I ran my 1st 8K last weekend!
I didn't even know there WAS an 8K. It's like 4.96 miles. Weird, but I'm game! A ton of people showed up for this race. I've said it before, I'll say it again....I just L-O-V-E being with these running people! They come out of the woodwork to race! Where are they all when I'm all alone, wishing I could find someone to run with????
Even Chuck showed for this one, I still think it was for the green beer....LOL
Anyway, I decided since this was my 1st 8K and no matter what I'd be PR-ing, that I just wanted to finish it in under 45 minutes.
And I did! My finish time was 44:52....LOL. Reg came in at 40:50 and Ed finished in like 36 minutes!
I was moving along at a steady pace when Tina went by me. I kept her in my sights and finished about 30 seconds behind her! At the end of the race I came side to side with an older man who I basically ran the whole race with. We took turns passing each other. When the finish line came into sight I asked him if he wanted to do a little sprint finish. I told him my coach always told me to finish strong. He said that was funny...his coach told him the same thing, only it was 30 years ago! We laughed and took off. I think he let me win because I did make it over the finish line 1 second before him. What a sweetie!!!
After the race we went and had a little breakfast. And green beer. We went to hear the awards and guess what??? I made 3rd place in my age division! I'm very happy!!
I'm not sure when I'm racing again. I need to check the schedule.
I didn't even know there WAS an 8K. It's like 4.96 miles. Weird, but I'm game! A ton of people showed up for this race. I've said it before, I'll say it again....I just L-O-V-E being with these running people! They come out of the woodwork to race! Where are they all when I'm all alone, wishing I could find someone to run with????
Even Chuck showed for this one, I still think it was for the green beer....LOL
Anyway, I decided since this was my 1st 8K and no matter what I'd be PR-ing, that I just wanted to finish it in under 45 minutes.
And I did! My finish time was 44:52....LOL. Reg came in at 40:50 and Ed finished in like 36 minutes!
I was moving along at a steady pace when Tina went by me. I kept her in my sights and finished about 30 seconds behind her! At the end of the race I came side to side with an older man who I basically ran the whole race with. We took turns passing each other. When the finish line came into sight I asked him if he wanted to do a little sprint finish. I told him my coach always told me to finish strong. He said that was funny...his coach told him the same thing, only it was 30 years ago! We laughed and took off. I think he let me win because I did make it over the finish line 1 second before him. What a sweetie!!!
After the race we went and had a little breakfast. And green beer. We went to hear the awards and guess what??? I made 3rd place in my age division! I'm very happy!!
I'm not sure when I'm racing again. I need to check the schedule.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Thursday Run
This week has been busy between work, meetings and a sick little boy. Robby is back to feeling wonderfully full of life, but now I have his sore throat. Better me than him though!
After the Gasparilla 15K last weekend (you remember...the race I ran with RYAN HALL), the first chance I had to run was Thursday. I was still recovering for a few days anyway, but it felt like it had been FOREVA since I ran!
I met Reg at the gym at 9:30 and we picked the residential neighborhood with the nice paved road for our start. While we held a nice 9-9:30 pace we chatted about the race and the week. Both of us are very happy with that race. Reg's race photos came out AWESOME, mine make me look fat...blah!
Reg had a little visitor at the house he's renting for the winter here. It was a 5 foot long Black Racer snake. Yumminess. Reg was NOT pleased....LOL...I can't blame him. Those snakes eat Canadians!!!! HA!! He got it out of the house, but not before the snake whispered "I'll be back while you're sleeping." LOL..just kiddin'
Now Reg has a tv that's turning itself off and on at odd times...niiiiiice! I wonder what the ghost's name is..... It's safe to say Reg's visit to Florida has been eventful. I don't think he'll forget THIS particular visit. Not that I'd let him.
Anyway, we came out of the residential and decided to run the block too. We ran 5 miles in 44 minutes and walked back to the gym for the cool down. Very pleasant run, as usual. Reg is only here for 5 more weeks. I will miss him!! I am going to strive to pull off a 25 minute 5K before he leaves. How's that for being optimistic??
After the Gasparilla 15K last weekend (you remember...the race I ran with RYAN HALL), the first chance I had to run was Thursday. I was still recovering for a few days anyway, but it felt like it had been FOREVA since I ran!
I met Reg at the gym at 9:30 and we picked the residential neighborhood with the nice paved road for our start. While we held a nice 9-9:30 pace we chatted about the race and the week. Both of us are very happy with that race. Reg's race photos came out AWESOME, mine make me look fat...blah!
Reg had a little visitor at the house he's renting for the winter here. It was a 5 foot long Black Racer snake. Yumminess. Reg was NOT pleased....LOL...I can't blame him. Those snakes eat Canadians!!!! HA!! He got it out of the house, but not before the snake whispered "I'll be back while you're sleeping." LOL..just kiddin'
Now Reg has a tv that's turning itself off and on at odd times...niiiiiice! I wonder what the ghost's name is..... It's safe to say Reg's visit to Florida has been eventful. I don't think he'll forget THIS particular visit. Not that I'd let him.
Anyway, we came out of the residential and decided to run the block too. We ran 5 miles in 44 minutes and walked back to the gym for the cool down. Very pleasant run, as usual. Reg is only here for 5 more weeks. I will miss him!! I am going to strive to pull off a 25 minute 5K before he leaves. How's that for being optimistic??
Monday, February 23, 2009
Boca Grande 5K Race Results
This is my 3rd time running Boca. It's one of my favorite races because of the beauty all around. I'm usually so busy looking around that I miss all the mile markers. Every time I get to the 3 mile marker I feel so surprised!
This is the first race where I decided to get the t-shirt in my size. I always get them for my husband, who gets a kick out of wearing these shirts when he doesn't even run. I felt a little remorseful as I put the shirt in the car, wondering if I should run back in and switch the size. But I didn't.
Reg and I made our way to the starting line and chatted with everyone. We were just behind the elites, who were the sub 6 minute pacers. Let me just say this...they're mostly the 16-19 year old track team with their skinny little legs that become a blur when the starting horn goes off....whateva! LOL
I was talking to some friends and lost Reg, but I figured after our half marathon disaster, he was staying away from me. Before he disappeared though, he pointed to some orange cones. I promised him the orange cones on Boca Grande wouldn't get him. These are runner friendly orange cones. He didn't look convinced. In fact, I think he was having flashbacks...
So the horn goes off, we start running. After about 3 minutes I realize I forgot to turn on my Garmin. SHOOT! I hit the on button and kept going, looking up ahead for Reg and the people I try to keep up with. I was surprised to have Ed, Josephine and Mary still in my sights. Well hey!! I decided to hold my pace instead of thinking I was going too fast. That's what happens to me when I race. I get worried about going out too fast, which makes me hold back. Endurance training is hard to kick, but I'm making a huge attempt to switch out to short distance thinking...
By half a mile in, the crowd thinned. Seemed pretty early for that, but what do I know??? As I passed the 1 mile marker I heard a hello and looked to my left. It was Reg!! Turns out he had gone to the back of the starting line, not realizing he was facing the wrong way. He said when the horn went off and the crowd ran off he was left behind. *chuckling right now* teehee!!! (Reg, I'm sorry for laughing but that was the funniest thing I've ever heard....LOL!!! So anyway, Reg had to book it to catch up. He ran with me for a little while and then took off.
At about 2.75 miles out I heard someone running behind me, catching up. I kept my pace and watched a woman run by me. I decided she wasn't in my age group, so I let her go instead of hip-checking her like a pro hockey player. When I saw mile marker 3, I was feeling good so I kicked it up a notch or two and ran by Little Miss Passer. I was right behind Mary! No freakin way!! I thought about trying to pass her, but I had "Sylvia's Mother" by Dr Hook playing on my "NEW iPod SHUFFLE THAT MY SWEETIE GOT ME FOR VALENTINE'S DAY" . It's hot pink too, my fave color!!!! Lalalalalala!!!! Anyway, kept me kinda mellow and feeling the '70's love so I stayed right behind her instead. I could hear Little Miss Passer behind me and planned to keep her there just in case she WAS in my age group. I'm no dummy.
Ran through the finish line and was pleasantly surprise to see the runners who are usually at the water stations by the time I come through. Turns out I had a new PR folks. Lemme say that again: I GOT A NEW PR FOLKS!!!!! YES!!! My last PR was 27:25. My new PR is 26:34. Almost a full minute shave!!! Oh, I'm liking this. I'm also shocked since I've been having all this trouble with my muscles, but I won't look a gift horse in the mouth.
Another very sweet thing happened after the race. A man I've never seen before came up to me and told me he saw me coming out of nowhere. He said I was flying toward the finish line and said it was pretty cool to watch. AWWWWWW Mr Runner Friend, how sweet you are! Wish I knew who he was so I could ask him to post those beautiful words here for all to see....lol
I saw Little Miss Passer and called out to her...we laughed and sat together for the awards. Her real name is Dianne and she's from Syracuse, NY. She's in the 55-59 age group (coulda fooled me). I was glad I didn't hip check her. She was a nice lady!!!
The awards ceremony was eventful too. I won a door prize. You won't believe it, but I got a second t-shirt with a paid voucher for next year's race! I was thrilled about the t-shirt because now Bobby has one too!
I placed 3rd in my age group, Reg placed 3rd in his too, at 25:28 (GO REG!!!).
Next race is Saturday up in Tampa. The Gasparilla 15K. This will give me a chance to find a decent distance race to run while I'm figuring out my new limitations. Full marrys are out. Might attempt another half. I want to see what this 15K will leave me feeling.
This is the first race where I decided to get the t-shirt in my size. I always get them for my husband, who gets a kick out of wearing these shirts when he doesn't even run. I felt a little remorseful as I put the shirt in the car, wondering if I should run back in and switch the size. But I didn't.
Reg and I made our way to the starting line and chatted with everyone. We were just behind the elites, who were the sub 6 minute pacers. Let me just say this...they're mostly the 16-19 year old track team with their skinny little legs that become a blur when the starting horn goes off....whateva! LOL
I was talking to some friends and lost Reg, but I figured after our half marathon disaster, he was staying away from me. Before he disappeared though, he pointed to some orange cones. I promised him the orange cones on Boca Grande wouldn't get him. These are runner friendly orange cones. He didn't look convinced. In fact, I think he was having flashbacks...
So the horn goes off, we start running. After about 3 minutes I realize I forgot to turn on my Garmin. SHOOT! I hit the on button and kept going, looking up ahead for Reg and the people I try to keep up with. I was surprised to have Ed, Josephine and Mary still in my sights. Well hey!! I decided to hold my pace instead of thinking I was going too fast. That's what happens to me when I race. I get worried about going out too fast, which makes me hold back. Endurance training is hard to kick, but I'm making a huge attempt to switch out to short distance thinking...
By half a mile in, the crowd thinned. Seemed pretty early for that, but what do I know??? As I passed the 1 mile marker I heard a hello and looked to my left. It was Reg!! Turns out he had gone to the back of the starting line, not realizing he was facing the wrong way. He said when the horn went off and the crowd ran off he was left behind. *chuckling right now* teehee!!! (Reg, I'm sorry for laughing but that was the funniest thing I've ever heard....LOL!!! So anyway, Reg had to book it to catch up. He ran with me for a little while and then took off.
At about 2.75 miles out I heard someone running behind me, catching up. I kept my pace and watched a woman run by me. I decided she wasn't in my age group, so I let her go instead of hip-checking her like a pro hockey player. When I saw mile marker 3, I was feeling good so I kicked it up a notch or two and ran by Little Miss Passer. I was right behind Mary! No freakin way!! I thought about trying to pass her, but I had "Sylvia's Mother" by Dr Hook playing on my "NEW iPod SHUFFLE THAT MY SWEETIE GOT ME FOR VALENTINE'S DAY" . It's hot pink too, my fave color!!!! Lalalalalala!!!! Anyway, kept me kinda mellow and feeling the '70's love so I stayed right behind her instead. I could hear Little Miss Passer behind me and planned to keep her there just in case she WAS in my age group. I'm no dummy.
Ran through the finish line and was pleasantly surprise to see the runners who are usually at the water stations by the time I come through. Turns out I had a new PR folks. Lemme say that again: I GOT A NEW PR FOLKS!!!!! YES!!! My last PR was 27:25. My new PR is 26:34. Almost a full minute shave!!! Oh, I'm liking this. I'm also shocked since I've been having all this trouble with my muscles, but I won't look a gift horse in the mouth.
Another very sweet thing happened after the race. A man I've never seen before came up to me and told me he saw me coming out of nowhere. He said I was flying toward the finish line and said it was pretty cool to watch. AWWWWWW Mr Runner Friend, how sweet you are! Wish I knew who he was so I could ask him to post those beautiful words here for all to see....lol
I saw Little Miss Passer and called out to her...we laughed and sat together for the awards. Her real name is Dianne and she's from Syracuse, NY. She's in the 55-59 age group (coulda fooled me). I was glad I didn't hip check her. She was a nice lady!!!
The awards ceremony was eventful too. I won a door prize. You won't believe it, but I got a second t-shirt with a paid voucher for next year's race! I was thrilled about the t-shirt because now Bobby has one too!
I placed 3rd in my age group, Reg placed 3rd in his too, at 25:28 (GO REG!!!).
Next race is Saturday up in Tampa. The Gasparilla 15K. This will give me a chance to find a decent distance race to run while I'm figuring out my new limitations. Full marrys are out. Might attempt another half. I want to see what this 15K will leave me feeling.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Sarasota Grouper Half Marathon Race Report
I might have slept 2 hours the night before the race. I just could not relax. I met Reg and Mike outside at 4:45am, Reg was driving. We parked less than a mile away and did a fast paced walk to the starting area. By the time we got there we were already sweaty and feeling sticky. It was soooo humid! Not good at 5:45am already.
I spotted Ed, Joan, Mike, Frank and Josephine as we walked over. They rode in on the "love machine". That's Ed and Joan's camper we took to the Endurance races over the summer. They invited us to ride with them but we wimped out for the extra hour of sleep. Seeing them pile out of the love machine made me wish I sucked it up and rode with them (for a split second...lol) My husband opted to sleep a little later too and would be meeting us at the finish line. With the hours he's been putting in, I was feeling the love when Bobby said he wouldn't miss this one.
We went to the 9 minute pace corral and felt the excitement all around us. I truly, truly love this part of all the races. Everyone is happy and excited. It's palpable. Sharing the road with over 2000 fellow runners is an amazing feeling. Running can be such a lone sport, to be surrounded by so many people who share this crazy love makes me happy.
We sang the national anthem...even Reg from Canada sang it! He knows all the words! I am impressed! The gun went off and we kinda did a little skippy run through the crowd. It was pitch black, a few spot lights were shining but it was still hard to see ahead of us. I was behind and to the right of Reg (my usual spot). At about a quarter mile out from the start I saw a man in front of Reg jump up and over. Unfortunately, Reg was too close to see that it was an orange cone the man was jumping over. Reg hit it full speed and went flying. It was very dark and I hoped against hope it wasn't Reg, but it was. I stopped and helped him up but it was too dark to see anything. I asked him if he wanted to pull out but he refused. This was just one of the many moments of determination Reg would be showing while running this race.
Let me stop here a minute to remind all of you something. This half marathon was going to prove to me that I either would continue to run distance or become "Princess Of The 5K Races". I have neuropathy in both feet/ankles and have a "yet to be diagnosed" problem with my muscles following commands, feeling sensations and cramping from hip to feet whether I'm running or sleeping. Balance has also been an issue. Very frustrating.
Reg came to the gym I work at to sign up while he would be here visiting from Canada. I had the good fortune to be working when he walked in and I instantly recognised his runner legs. You know what I mean. So I casually mentioned Runners Club was meeting the next morning. He said he'd be there. I asked him if he did marathons and he said no, 15k's were his longest races and he had no wish to ever do even a halfer. He runs those distances, he just never had a desire for the half or fulls. I told him I was hoping to do the Sarasota Half but he was less than interested. At that time, lol.
We have become very good friends while I frantically try to keep up with him. He knows about my leg issues and has been so supportive. We did all my long run preparations for this half together. He supported me all the times I had to stop, either from leg fatigue or pain. He knew how worried I was about this race. Then one day he said he was going to run the half with me. I was very surprised. What I didn't realize at this time was Reg meant RUN WITH ME. I finally got it when he said we'd cross the finish line together, no matter what. Words cannot begin to describe my feelings. I'll leave it at that. I'm sure you know.
I kept telling him if he felt the urge to fly to just go, I'd be fine and meet him at the finish line but he ignored me. At the starting line we hugged and said good luck. I again told him to go if he felt the pull. He said NO WAY. Wow.
All of this went through my mind as I saw Reg falling. As I helped him to his feet I asked if we should pull out, he said no and away we went. As we ran he told me he thought his elbow was bleeding, his knees were sore too but we couldn't see yet. Then the sun started to come up. I was behind Reg and saw a very large dark spot on his brand new pure white singlet. He was bleeding. A lot. I thought it was his side but it turned out to be that elbow. He had blood pooling in his hand! We started watching for a med tent. I was so worried it made me have to pee! Good friend I am, huh??? He's bleeding out and I had to stop THREE times at the port-a-potty. In line too. Reg waited every time.
At about this point I spotted Sondra, Sherry's friend. Reg was up a little ways so I was talking with Sondra as we ran around a huge cull-de-sac type circle. Reg ran back to me to tell me he saw a med tent but we had to back track a little. He had the nerve to tell me to go on. Like I'd leave him. I told Sondra we'd see her at the finish line and I followed Reg to the med station. OMG...that was a nasty, nasty cut. The doctor said he needed stitches. I told Reg we were stopping the race. Here's where he showed his determination a second time by saying NO. I reminded him he was BLEEDING and needed STITCHES. He asked the doc to dress it up and back on the road we went. We caught back up to the 2:15 pacer, we were happy to see him. I was feeling some leg fatigue by now, kinda earlier than usual but I put it out of my head. I could see Reg's elbow was bleeding through the bandage. We watched it until he finally decided it needed to be redone. A different med tent was back at least a half mile. Reg again told me to go on, he'd catch up but of course I ignored him as we ran back to the doctors.
There were 3 doctors at this station. They were very nice. They all cleaned him up and asked if he was planning on stopping at this point. Reg asked if it was safe to continue and they said yes. I had mixed feelings at this point about continuing but as the doctors bandaged Reg I saw that look of determination for a third time. I didn't bother to voice my worries.
Getting started back up after this 10-15 minute break was very hard for me. Reg is in fantastic shape and I could tell I was sooo holding him back. There's a small hill at the bridge, the bridge itself is a steep incline and my legs were not into it. I wanted to cry. I was glad Reg was ahead of me and couldn't see. A couple times he got pretty far ahead of me and when he turned to check on me and saw I was too far back, he'd stop and wait. I told him to go on. He said we would cross that finish line together.
I saw so many friends and that kept me happy. As guilty as I felt holding Reg back, I was so thankful every time he stopped to wait for me. By mile 9 I was hurting. I was also mad. I pulled Reg into a race I couldn't even run. I felt so emotional. I realized my bad attitude would only make us miserable so I sucked it up. I walked/ran pretty much the last 2.5 miles. At about this point I heard the pitter patter of big Asics wearing Mike feet...LOL...he'd caught up with us and was just enjoying himself. A couple times while running I stopped and hoped they'd lose me. I wanted Reg to get a strong finish, but every time he knew when I fell behind.
When we saw the mile 13 marker we said goodbye to Mike. He'd decided to run it last minute and ran it bandit, had to skip the finish line. We ran to the finish line together. I saw Bobby and that gave me an adrenaline rush as we crossed the line. I was so relieved to see my husband. He was relieved to see me too because it took us a lot longer than I told him it would. He told me later he was worried I'd be upset to not PR. I was. And am still, but all in all I am glad we ran it.
Finish time: 2:46:16....oh man...LOL
Reg went to the doctor yesterday but I haven't heard from him yet to find out if he did get stitches. He told me he felt fine as far as the run but was sore from the fall. He admitted he's a bit disappointed with our little journey through Sarasota too. Can't blame him.
I saw Sherry and Sondra at the finish line. They did fantastic, I'm so proud of them both. Sherry knows how I felt about this race and I knew I couldn't fool her. Sherry and Sondra let me cry and be sad. It's a girly thing I think, to be able to just be honest with the grief I was feeling and cry a little right then. They both stayed and talked with me for a while. It meant the world to me. I hope they know it. xoxoxo
I rode home with my husband, who knew how I felt without us even having to say a word. He said all the right things and listened to me ramble on all day. We went out to dinner that night, just us. It was so nice. We had a quiet evening together and I felt so much better.
So, here I am with all kinds of emotions. It took me this long to write this post because I feel so torn. While I'm happy I can run, I really wanted to run Boston someday. But unless this problem with my legs gets solved that isn't going to happen. Then there's a little voice inside me that's saying "how bout one more try"....
I spotted Ed, Joan, Mike, Frank and Josephine as we walked over. They rode in on the "love machine". That's Ed and Joan's camper we took to the Endurance races over the summer. They invited us to ride with them but we wimped out for the extra hour of sleep. Seeing them pile out of the love machine made me wish I sucked it up and rode with them (for a split second...lol) My husband opted to sleep a little later too and would be meeting us at the finish line. With the hours he's been putting in, I was feeling the love when Bobby said he wouldn't miss this one.
We went to the 9 minute pace corral and felt the excitement all around us. I truly, truly love this part of all the races. Everyone is happy and excited. It's palpable. Sharing the road with over 2000 fellow runners is an amazing feeling. Running can be such a lone sport, to be surrounded by so many people who share this crazy love makes me happy.
We sang the national anthem...even Reg from Canada sang it! He knows all the words! I am impressed! The gun went off and we kinda did a little skippy run through the crowd. It was pitch black, a few spot lights were shining but it was still hard to see ahead of us. I was behind and to the right of Reg (my usual spot). At about a quarter mile out from the start I saw a man in front of Reg jump up and over. Unfortunately, Reg was too close to see that it was an orange cone the man was jumping over. Reg hit it full speed and went flying. It was very dark and I hoped against hope it wasn't Reg, but it was. I stopped and helped him up but it was too dark to see anything. I asked him if he wanted to pull out but he refused. This was just one of the many moments of determination Reg would be showing while running this race.
Let me stop here a minute to remind all of you something. This half marathon was going to prove to me that I either would continue to run distance or become "Princess Of The 5K Races". I have neuropathy in both feet/ankles and have a "yet to be diagnosed" problem with my muscles following commands, feeling sensations and cramping from hip to feet whether I'm running or sleeping. Balance has also been an issue. Very frustrating.
Reg came to the gym I work at to sign up while he would be here visiting from Canada. I had the good fortune to be working when he walked in and I instantly recognised his runner legs. You know what I mean. So I casually mentioned Runners Club was meeting the next morning. He said he'd be there. I asked him if he did marathons and he said no, 15k's were his longest races and he had no wish to ever do even a halfer. He runs those distances, he just never had a desire for the half or fulls. I told him I was hoping to do the Sarasota Half but he was less than interested. At that time, lol.
We have become very good friends while I frantically try to keep up with him. He knows about my leg issues and has been so supportive. We did all my long run preparations for this half together. He supported me all the times I had to stop, either from leg fatigue or pain. He knew how worried I was about this race. Then one day he said he was going to run the half with me. I was very surprised. What I didn't realize at this time was Reg meant RUN WITH ME. I finally got it when he said we'd cross the finish line together, no matter what. Words cannot begin to describe my feelings. I'll leave it at that. I'm sure you know.
I kept telling him if he felt the urge to fly to just go, I'd be fine and meet him at the finish line but he ignored me. At the starting line we hugged and said good luck. I again told him to go if he felt the pull. He said NO WAY. Wow.
All of this went through my mind as I saw Reg falling. As I helped him to his feet I asked if we should pull out, he said no and away we went. As we ran he told me he thought his elbow was bleeding, his knees were sore too but we couldn't see yet. Then the sun started to come up. I was behind Reg and saw a very large dark spot on his brand new pure white singlet. He was bleeding. A lot. I thought it was his side but it turned out to be that elbow. He had blood pooling in his hand! We started watching for a med tent. I was so worried it made me have to pee! Good friend I am, huh??? He's bleeding out and I had to stop THREE times at the port-a-potty. In line too. Reg waited every time.
At about this point I spotted Sondra, Sherry's friend. Reg was up a little ways so I was talking with Sondra as we ran around a huge cull-de-sac type circle. Reg ran back to me to tell me he saw a med tent but we had to back track a little. He had the nerve to tell me to go on. Like I'd leave him. I told Sondra we'd see her at the finish line and I followed Reg to the med station. OMG...that was a nasty, nasty cut. The doctor said he needed stitches. I told Reg we were stopping the race. Here's where he showed his determination a second time by saying NO. I reminded him he was BLEEDING and needed STITCHES. He asked the doc to dress it up and back on the road we went. We caught back up to the 2:15 pacer, we were happy to see him. I was feeling some leg fatigue by now, kinda earlier than usual but I put it out of my head. I could see Reg's elbow was bleeding through the bandage. We watched it until he finally decided it needed to be redone. A different med tent was back at least a half mile. Reg again told me to go on, he'd catch up but of course I ignored him as we ran back to the doctors.
There were 3 doctors at this station. They were very nice. They all cleaned him up and asked if he was planning on stopping at this point. Reg asked if it was safe to continue and they said yes. I had mixed feelings at this point about continuing but as the doctors bandaged Reg I saw that look of determination for a third time. I didn't bother to voice my worries.
Getting started back up after this 10-15 minute break was very hard for me. Reg is in fantastic shape and I could tell I was sooo holding him back. There's a small hill at the bridge, the bridge itself is a steep incline and my legs were not into it. I wanted to cry. I was glad Reg was ahead of me and couldn't see. A couple times he got pretty far ahead of me and when he turned to check on me and saw I was too far back, he'd stop and wait. I told him to go on. He said we would cross that finish line together.
I saw so many friends and that kept me happy. As guilty as I felt holding Reg back, I was so thankful every time he stopped to wait for me. By mile 9 I was hurting. I was also mad. I pulled Reg into a race I couldn't even run. I felt so emotional. I realized my bad attitude would only make us miserable so I sucked it up. I walked/ran pretty much the last 2.5 miles. At about this point I heard the pitter patter of big Asics wearing Mike feet...LOL...he'd caught up with us and was just enjoying himself. A couple times while running I stopped and hoped they'd lose me. I wanted Reg to get a strong finish, but every time he knew when I fell behind.
When we saw the mile 13 marker we said goodbye to Mike. He'd decided to run it last minute and ran it bandit, had to skip the finish line. We ran to the finish line together. I saw Bobby and that gave me an adrenaline rush as we crossed the line. I was so relieved to see my husband. He was relieved to see me too because it took us a lot longer than I told him it would. He told me later he was worried I'd be upset to not PR. I was. And am still, but all in all I am glad we ran it.
Finish time: 2:46:16....oh man...LOL
Reg went to the doctor yesterday but I haven't heard from him yet to find out if he did get stitches. He told me he felt fine as far as the run but was sore from the fall. He admitted he's a bit disappointed with our little journey through Sarasota too. Can't blame him.
I saw Sherry and Sondra at the finish line. They did fantastic, I'm so proud of them both. Sherry knows how I felt about this race and I knew I couldn't fool her. Sherry and Sondra let me cry and be sad. It's a girly thing I think, to be able to just be honest with the grief I was feeling and cry a little right then. They both stayed and talked with me for a while. It meant the world to me. I hope they know it. xoxoxo
I rode home with my husband, who knew how I felt without us even having to say a word. He said all the right things and listened to me ramble on all day. We went out to dinner that night, just us. It was so nice. We had a quiet evening together and I felt so much better.
So, here I am with all kinds of emotions. It took me this long to write this post because I feel so torn. While I'm happy I can run, I really wanted to run Boston someday. But unless this problem with my legs gets solved that isn't going to happen. Then there's a little voice inside me that's saying "how bout one more try"....
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Halfer Sunday
This is gonna be short but sweet peeps!
Been training for this half. Hasn't really gone along as I had hoped but with the GREAT help of my runner friends, I am running that half. Reg, Ed, Debi, Frank and Josephine are all running the half and Bobby (not my husband) and Chris are running the full. Bobby'll probably finish his full about when the rest of us are finishing our half...LOL!!! I'm holding out hope that Mike will be joining us...(C'monnnn MIKE!!!!)
My husband is meeting me at the finishline. Jim and Bethany will be in strategic spots along the way to kick our butts if we look like HELL...LOL
Reg (from Canada) has been extremely helpful. He's been pacing me and encouraging me every step of the way. Even when I was 15 minutes late for our run last week! Wait'll you hear this:
I was 15 minutes late for my run with Reg. He started without me so I went the opposite way figuring I'd meet him somewhere along the way. As I ran along, feeling bad that I was late etc, up ahead was a policeman stopping traffic. I ran up to a guy standing there and he told me someone got hit by a van and the coroner was taking him away. HIM??? HIM WHO??? He didn't know anything other than it was a "he". Of course my guilty mind thought it was Reg because every time we run across that bridge I tell him not to get hit by a car and we sprint across it. I ran to an officer and asked if it was an athletic middle aged man and he said no. I didn't believe him. I ran as fast as I could over the bridge and as I got to the corner here comes Reg. OMG!!! I was so happy to see him! I hugged him and cried a little bit. He told me I must be a sensitive person. Well yeah, call me sensitive...LOL. We had to walk awhile so I could calm down. When we passed the bystander who told me what was going on before, he asked Reg if he knew how happy I was to see him....haha! REG IS ALIVE!!!!
Reg has never run a half marathon. That surprised me because he runs all the time. Distances too. I can't imagine not competing. Reg decided he is running this half marathon. With me. Not running to compete, running to stay with me the whole way. I keep telling him if he feels the pull to take off to just go. I don't want to hold him back. But Reg says no. He's running this halfer with me. I can't believe someone would do this. It means the world to me that Reg is running this with me. I have my worries about finishing because of my muscles acting like 2 year olds who don't listen. So far we got to 10.12 miles before I couldn't go on. Hopefully we can get to 13.1 Sunday. If I have to roll the last 3 miles I will. Haha! Just kidding. I'm gonna do cartwheels across the finish line.
Been training for this half. Hasn't really gone along as I had hoped but with the GREAT help of my runner friends, I am running that half. Reg, Ed, Debi, Frank and Josephine are all running the half and Bobby (not my husband) and Chris are running the full. Bobby'll probably finish his full about when the rest of us are finishing our half...LOL!!! I'm holding out hope that Mike will be joining us...(C'monnnn MIKE!!!!)
My husband is meeting me at the finishline. Jim and Bethany will be in strategic spots along the way to kick our butts if we look like HELL...LOL
Reg (from Canada) has been extremely helpful. He's been pacing me and encouraging me every step of the way. Even when I was 15 minutes late for our run last week! Wait'll you hear this:
I was 15 minutes late for my run with Reg. He started without me so I went the opposite way figuring I'd meet him somewhere along the way. As I ran along, feeling bad that I was late etc, up ahead was a policeman stopping traffic. I ran up to a guy standing there and he told me someone got hit by a van and the coroner was taking him away. HIM??? HIM WHO??? He didn't know anything other than it was a "he". Of course my guilty mind thought it was Reg because every time we run across that bridge I tell him not to get hit by a car and we sprint across it. I ran to an officer and asked if it was an athletic middle aged man and he said no. I didn't believe him. I ran as fast as I could over the bridge and as I got to the corner here comes Reg. OMG!!! I was so happy to see him! I hugged him and cried a little bit. He told me I must be a sensitive person. Well yeah, call me sensitive...LOL. We had to walk awhile so I could calm down. When we passed the bystander who told me what was going on before, he asked Reg if he knew how happy I was to see him....haha! REG IS ALIVE!!!!
Reg has never run a half marathon. That surprised me because he runs all the time. Distances too. I can't imagine not competing. Reg decided he is running this half marathon. With me. Not running to compete, running to stay with me the whole way. I keep telling him if he feels the pull to take off to just go. I don't want to hold him back. But Reg says no. He's running this halfer with me. I can't believe someone would do this. It means the world to me that Reg is running this with me. I have my worries about finishing because of my muscles acting like 2 year olds who don't listen. So far we got to 10.12 miles before I couldn't go on. Hopefully we can get to 13.1 Sunday. If I have to roll the last 3 miles I will. Haha! Just kidding. I'm gonna do cartwheels across the finish line.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Saturday Long Run
Got a nice run in this morning with my Canadian friend, Reg. I keep calling him Reggie but he doesn't really like that. He told me that the first time we met. I keep forgetting until the last syllable is out of my mouth, then I make a point to say "Reg" the next buncha times I say his name.
So anyway, me and Reg did a 10 miler this morning and here are the stats...
Run time: 1:44
Run distance: 10.12 miles
Avg pace: 10:20
Best pace: 6:50 (no Jim, we didn't run down a big hill, hardy har har)
Good news: We're done with long runs since our half marathon is a week from tomorrow.
Bad news: I got a bra burn. Yep. Right in the middle. In between. You know....THERE!
Here's what happened, and I blame my oldest daughter for this. You'll see why.
She's mad at me so she stopped "helping" me with the laundry, so the best running bra I own (which isn't even a running bra) was still in the laundry pile from Wednesday's run. I never even gave it a thought until 10 minutes before I was headed out the door. No special bra. Shoot. I grabbed the first one out of my drawer, strapped 'em in and took off without a thought.
About two miles out, I was thinking about 'em again. In fact, I was thinking about 'em for the next 8.12 miles. I had a tank top under my shirt so I tried pulling that up through the bottom, but forget it. Bra burn is here people. And I felt it in the shower worse than ever.
Doesn't hurt now though. But see if I buy HER those blueberry poptarts she loves so much. Not this week ladies and gentlemen. She'll be sorrrreeeeeeeeee
The run was a good one. We talked the entire time. Me with a lot more effort than Reg. Also, here's the thing about Reg: he likes to be about 8 inches ahead of me AT ALL TIMES. I have figured out (finally) that if I speed up so I can HEAR WHAT HE'S SAYING...he just speeds up. That's why we've been running so freaking fast. But I caught on last week so now I don't try to catch up anymore. I'd rather be able to talk. This little bit of info is what's gonna get me a new PR for a half marry folks. Cuz in that half, I'm not going to speak to Reg. I'm going to wear my iPod so I can't even hear him if he tries to talk to me. And guess what else??? Yes. You are quite correct everyone: I am going to try to run BESIDE Reg. YEAH BABY.
I'm thinking I'll just keep an even sub 9 minute per mile pace until 7 miles, then go for it. This could be a joke, who knows. I'll find out, won't I? As long as my legs don't start ignoring commands, I should make it just fine. Our leisure runs have gone well, my feet didn't get numb until about 9 miles this morning. The stabbing pains in my legs came and went but I'm learning to ignore that. The mind is a very powerful thing.
My friend and coach is runing his marathon Sunday morning. Originally he wanted to Boston Qualify but that particular race is full, registration has closed for 2009. What a ripoff!!! Jim said he feels like the pressure is off, so I think he might be doing a joy-ride marathon Sunday. I know a few friends have asked me if I would post Jim's results here and OF COURSE I will...as soon as I get them. Jim's wife, Bethany and her brother (who came down from Massachusetts) will also be running this race. I'll get all their results posted...PROMISE!!!
Ok, I need to go clean the house so my husband doesn't know I spent 3 hours in the hot tub today. WHAT???? It was so cold I was afraid to get out!!! It's like 62 degrees here in SW Florida. That's like 30 degrees for you Northerners. Ya, chilly! Our plants are even dying. Imagine trying to get out of a hot tub????
Have a fun weekend!!!
xxooxxooxxoo
So anyway, me and Reg did a 10 miler this morning and here are the stats...
Run time: 1:44
Run distance: 10.12 miles
Avg pace: 10:20
Best pace: 6:50 (no Jim, we didn't run down a big hill, hardy har har)
Good news: We're done with long runs since our half marathon is a week from tomorrow.
Bad news: I got a bra burn. Yep. Right in the middle. In between. You know....THERE!
Here's what happened, and I blame my oldest daughter for this. You'll see why.
She's mad at me so she stopped "helping" me with the laundry, so the best running bra I own (which isn't even a running bra) was still in the laundry pile from Wednesday's run. I never even gave it a thought until 10 minutes before I was headed out the door. No special bra. Shoot. I grabbed the first one out of my drawer, strapped 'em in and took off without a thought.
About two miles out, I was thinking about 'em again. In fact, I was thinking about 'em for the next 8.12 miles. I had a tank top under my shirt so I tried pulling that up through the bottom, but forget it. Bra burn is here people. And I felt it in the shower worse than ever.
Doesn't hurt now though. But see if I buy HER those blueberry poptarts she loves so much. Not this week ladies and gentlemen. She'll be sorrrreeeeeeeeee
The run was a good one. We talked the entire time. Me with a lot more effort than Reg. Also, here's the thing about Reg: he likes to be about 8 inches ahead of me AT ALL TIMES. I have figured out (finally) that if I speed up so I can HEAR WHAT HE'S SAYING...he just speeds up. That's why we've been running so freaking fast. But I caught on last week so now I don't try to catch up anymore. I'd rather be able to talk. This little bit of info is what's gonna get me a new PR for a half marry folks. Cuz in that half, I'm not going to speak to Reg. I'm going to wear my iPod so I can't even hear him if he tries to talk to me. And guess what else??? Yes. You are quite correct everyone: I am going to try to run BESIDE Reg. YEAH BABY.
I'm thinking I'll just keep an even sub 9 minute per mile pace until 7 miles, then go for it. This could be a joke, who knows. I'll find out, won't I? As long as my legs don't start ignoring commands, I should make it just fine. Our leisure runs have gone well, my feet didn't get numb until about 9 miles this morning. The stabbing pains in my legs came and went but I'm learning to ignore that. The mind is a very powerful thing.
My friend and coach is runing his marathon Sunday morning. Originally he wanted to Boston Qualify but that particular race is full, registration has closed for 2009. What a ripoff!!! Jim said he feels like the pressure is off, so I think he might be doing a joy-ride marathon Sunday. I know a few friends have asked me if I would post Jim's results here and OF COURSE I will...as soon as I get them. Jim's wife, Bethany and her brother (who came down from Massachusetts) will also be running this race. I'll get all their results posted...PROMISE!!!
Ok, I need to go clean the house so my husband doesn't know I spent 3 hours in the hot tub today. WHAT???? It was so cold I was afraid to get out!!! It's like 62 degrees here in SW Florida. That's like 30 degrees for you Northerners. Ya, chilly! Our plants are even dying. Imagine trying to get out of a hot tub????
Have a fun weekend!!!
xxooxxooxxoo
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Running Again...
I've been busy with running, having a grandbaby (tons of fun that's becoming), working and reconnecting with old friends on Facebook. I feel like I don't have time for anything!! My husband is working 12-15 hours a day and I am feeling the loss of having my other half here. I feel a little lost. =( Even the kids are pretty quiet. When Bob does get home we are on him like Asics on a marathoner.
BUT...I am running again and I'm very thrilled to say I'm overcoming a few of those health obstacles that popped up over the summer/fall.
I can now get 10.6 miles (in 1:45) before the pain in my feet make me stop. I'm getting used to the muscle weirdness too. A numbness starts at my hips and spreads down to my knees, then my muscles just stop working. My cardio seems fine so it's very frustrating to have to stop when that feels strong. I don't bother trying to run through that anymore, so I haven't fallen. Although Jim says not to do another long run (hopefully he's not reading this) I'm meeting Reg Saturday for one more long run before the half on Feb 15th. I want to go into that half KNOWING my legs will behave. It seems like I get further and further each time, so one more long run for me.
Last night in yoga was THE BEST balance I've had in about 6 weeks. Jim decided to add some leg (quad) holds in yoga that are extremely painful. At first I couldn't even do them. Now I can hold them for half the time. The pain is unbelievable but I think it'll help when I'm running and it starts up. I used to have to stop after 2 miles, getting to 10.6 was so wonderful. I'm skipping yoga this morning because Reg noticed I have my hardest times when I run right after a yoga class. Maybe it's too much? We'll see since I'm meeting him at 9am today.
I used to use yoga as a stretch/condition before I ran. I'm not sure I like that I can't do both anymore so we'll see. I'm glad Reg pointed this out to me, I've been trying to just get it all back so determinedly, that I didn't put the two together.
Jim has his full marathon this weekend on the east coast of Florida. Boston registration is full, so if (WHEN) he pulls that BQ time, he'll be running Boston 2010! Good luck jim!!
BUT...I am running again and I'm very thrilled to say I'm overcoming a few of those health obstacles that popped up over the summer/fall.
I can now get 10.6 miles (in 1:45) before the pain in my feet make me stop. I'm getting used to the muscle weirdness too. A numbness starts at my hips and spreads down to my knees, then my muscles just stop working. My cardio seems fine so it's very frustrating to have to stop when that feels strong. I don't bother trying to run through that anymore, so I haven't fallen. Although Jim says not to do another long run (hopefully he's not reading this) I'm meeting Reg Saturday for one more long run before the half on Feb 15th. I want to go into that half KNOWING my legs will behave. It seems like I get further and further each time, so one more long run for me.
Last night in yoga was THE BEST balance I've had in about 6 weeks. Jim decided to add some leg (quad) holds in yoga that are extremely painful. At first I couldn't even do them. Now I can hold them for half the time. The pain is unbelievable but I think it'll help when I'm running and it starts up. I used to have to stop after 2 miles, getting to 10.6 was so wonderful. I'm skipping yoga this morning because Reg noticed I have my hardest times when I run right after a yoga class. Maybe it's too much? We'll see since I'm meeting him at 9am today.
I used to use yoga as a stretch/condition before I ran. I'm not sure I like that I can't do both anymore so we'll see. I'm glad Reg pointed this out to me, I've been trying to just get it all back so determinedly, that I didn't put the two together.
Jim has his full marathon this weekend on the east coast of Florida. Boston registration is full, so if (WHEN) he pulls that BQ time, he'll be running Boston 2010! Good luck jim!!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Monday, Monday...
Even though it's now TUESDAY! Monday's are a busy day. With my husband's new schedule it's a little less exciting too. He's pulling 15 hour days and I don't like it too much. By the time he walks in the door, he's all done. Nothing left... =(
I met Reg (my Canadian friend) at the gym for a 5 miler. He's convinced he can get me across the finish line in just under 2 hours! I know HE can run that, but I'm not sure I can. Maybe if my legs would start obeying my commands, I can. The numbness is making me crazy(ier)!
Anyway...we took off, talking away. I looked at my Garmin and saw 8:10 pace. WHAT??? And we'd already run our first mile! I immediately worried I'd use all my energy and not even finish 5 miles, but Reg kinda laughed and pulled me along. We had to keep slowing down, mostly because I was freaking out. I didn't run this speed when I was feeling good! I was thrilled and worried at the same time. All I could picture was Jim telling me to pace myself for the long haul, don't fly the first few miles, save some for the "bank" at the end of the run. My endurance training is fighting my speed training.
I've had this conflict from the start. Even in a 5K race, I prepare myself mentally to run 10 miles instead of a 5k. I've discussed this with Jim, he said I need to change my thinking for different mileage, but I am stuck in marathon training. I need new words for my brain. Jim is in massive marathon mode. He's trying to qualify for Boston, his marathon is in 2 weeks. I know he thinks he's running on the fence with his time...it's gonna be a close one but I know he can do it. He runs so effortlessly, very into the negative splits. His 2nd half will be faster so if he hits the halfway mark at the right time, he'll make it. I am confident he will. His marathon is 3 hours away, so I can't be there to see him cross the finish line. Kinda bummed about that. With my husband working such crazy hours, I won't even ask him to do a 6 hour round trip to watch my coach QB....LOL....
So back to my run with Reg. We noticed that if I looked at my Garmin and realized we were under a 9 minute pace, I'd need to walk 15-20 seconds. If I didn't look at all I could keep going. MIND OVER MATTER! This proves mentality plays a huge roll in my running. We have another 5 miler Wed. I'm going to give Reg my Garmin, he won't tell me what we're doing. Let's see if I can trick my mind....
Here are our stats:
Run time: 46:51
Distance: 5 miles
Avg pace: 9:22
Best pace: 5:43 (!!!!!!!)
See what I mean??? I have NEVER run 5 miles in 47 minutes. I am thrilled.
I met Reg (my Canadian friend) at the gym for a 5 miler. He's convinced he can get me across the finish line in just under 2 hours! I know HE can run that, but I'm not sure I can. Maybe if my legs would start obeying my commands, I can. The numbness is making me crazy(ier)!
Anyway...we took off, talking away. I looked at my Garmin and saw 8:10 pace. WHAT??? And we'd already run our first mile! I immediately worried I'd use all my energy and not even finish 5 miles, but Reg kinda laughed and pulled me along. We had to keep slowing down, mostly because I was freaking out. I didn't run this speed when I was feeling good! I was thrilled and worried at the same time. All I could picture was Jim telling me to pace myself for the long haul, don't fly the first few miles, save some for the "bank" at the end of the run. My endurance training is fighting my speed training.
I've had this conflict from the start. Even in a 5K race, I prepare myself mentally to run 10 miles instead of a 5k. I've discussed this with Jim, he said I need to change my thinking for different mileage, but I am stuck in marathon training. I need new words for my brain. Jim is in massive marathon mode. He's trying to qualify for Boston, his marathon is in 2 weeks. I know he thinks he's running on the fence with his time...it's gonna be a close one but I know he can do it. He runs so effortlessly, very into the negative splits. His 2nd half will be faster so if he hits the halfway mark at the right time, he'll make it. I am confident he will. His marathon is 3 hours away, so I can't be there to see him cross the finish line. Kinda bummed about that. With my husband working such crazy hours, I won't even ask him to do a 6 hour round trip to watch my coach QB....LOL....
So back to my run with Reg. We noticed that if I looked at my Garmin and realized we were under a 9 minute pace, I'd need to walk 15-20 seconds. If I didn't look at all I could keep going. MIND OVER MATTER! This proves mentality plays a huge roll in my running. We have another 5 miler Wed. I'm going to give Reg my Garmin, he won't tell me what we're doing. Let's see if I can trick my mind....
Here are our stats:
Run time: 46:51
Distance: 5 miles
Avg pace: 9:22
Best pace: 5:43 (!!!!!!!)
See what I mean??? I have NEVER run 5 miles in 47 minutes. I am thrilled.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Friday Already???
This week flew by!
I'm back to my classes and feeling so much better. It's weird to do the spin class and actually feel my legs. I still have a little weakness on the right side, arm and leg, but I'm going to get back to machine workouts. I totally feel it in yoga. My balance seems to have improved though. Maybe the seizure meds?? Not sure. I'll see the doc soon.
I'm meeting Reg (from Canada!!!) at the gym this morning for a little 3-4 miler. We have an 8-10 miler planned for Saturday. I need to see where I'm at since that half marathon is only 3 weeks away. Reg even said it was freezing here!
The only half I've done is the one I "ran" with that IT band yank. So my PR is 2:30. As painfully ego bashing as that felt that day, I'm kinda happy about it now because I can probably beat that at least by a minute or two...LOL
I tested my coach the other day to see if he "yeses" me about my abilities. I asked him if he thought I could go for the full instead. He gave me that "coachy" look that only they can give and said "don't be ridiculous". Ok, ok. I was kidding. Kinda. I don't know what it is about the marathon that pulls me in.
I'm back to my classes and feeling so much better. It's weird to do the spin class and actually feel my legs. I still have a little weakness on the right side, arm and leg, but I'm going to get back to machine workouts. I totally feel it in yoga. My balance seems to have improved though. Maybe the seizure meds?? Not sure. I'll see the doc soon.
I'm meeting Reg (from Canada!!!) at the gym this morning for a little 3-4 miler. We have an 8-10 miler planned for Saturday. I need to see where I'm at since that half marathon is only 3 weeks away. Reg even said it was freezing here!
The only half I've done is the one I "ran" with that IT band yank. So my PR is 2:30. As painfully ego bashing as that felt that day, I'm kinda happy about it now because I can probably beat that at least by a minute or two...LOL
I tested my coach the other day to see if he "yeses" me about my abilities. I asked him if he thought I could go for the full instead. He gave me that "coachy" look that only they can give and said "don't be ridiculous". Ok, ok. I was kidding. Kinda. I don't know what it is about the marathon that pulls me in.
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