Lately, I've been collecting. New recipes, friends, running friends, shoes and and more skipped runs. The food and friends? Delightful, all is a great time for both--don't you just love pumpkins and apples?
About those skipped runs? It's bad.
It looks like when life is giving me more of everything, I tend to get off track. It's part of my old pattern. Reviewing the past couple of weeks, I see that I've been running with people more but overall running much less!
Argh! I attribute this to old dabbler tendencies. I allow the focus of running to change, the wind in my hair and generally good post-run feelings stop being enough. Instead, I start planning runs around other people and using a missed connection or time conflict to skip a run. Well, it's time to change that.
In the past month, I've with someone else almost everytime. Not only does this change my pace, it makes it more difficult to get to running. I have a lovely park one minute from my front door, no injuries and no excuses. Yet...I'm slacking off!
I've decided to change all that. My plan? Get back on track, run more and keep the friends. And the food. I see more solo runs in my future and more food. Will keep you posted...
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Dam Fine Day
Just a check in. We went up to Damfino Lakes Tuesday. It was lovely.
Now, just farting around procrastinating a run. I'm pretty sure I'll never completely change! Hey! We're going up to do Victoria soon! Anyone on board? Here's a link.
Victoria Marathon, 10/10/10
I'm going for another PR. I guess I better get out and run today. OK, I'm going.
 |
| Mt.Baker peeking out through the fluffy clouds. |
 |
| Brian posing in his favorite hat for hiking. He almost has me convinced it's cool. |
 |
| Me, glowing...it's on the way down...almost dinner time. |
Now, just farting around procrastinating a run. I'm pretty sure I'll never completely change! Hey! We're going up to do Victoria soon! Anyone on board? Here's a link.
Victoria Marathon, 10/10/10
I'm going for another PR. I guess I better get out and run today. OK, I'm going.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
OK, I have officially started to push the finishing times down! Today was the Fairhaven 15K.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs398.snc4/46098_130431237003619_107287162651360_175083_2823718_n.jpg
Such a great race...especially when I PR. My finishing time was 1:19:46 (previous PR 1:21:53) giving me a 2 minute PR! So excited!
It was a lovely day, sunny and cool day. I started out strong and had some fast splits, a few in a the low 8's. 8:12 was my best mile. My pace fell off a bit near the end. I ended up at 8:58 for mile 9. Still, much better than a lot of my recent races.
The post race mimosas and breakfast were delicious too! So, the day was great. Still.....I think I hear speed work calling my name. Speed work and an enormous dinner. Speed work, an enormous dinner and a beer are calling my name.
Speaking of a speedsters,
Great job everyone!
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs398.snc4/46098_130431237003619_107287162651360_175083_2823718_n.jpg
Such a great race...especially when I PR. My finishing time was 1:19:46 (previous PR 1:21:53) giving me a 2 minute PR! So excited!
It was a lovely day, sunny and cool day. I started out strong and had some fast splits, a few in a the low 8's. 8:12 was my best mile. My pace fell off a bit near the end. I ended up at 8:58 for mile 9. Still, much better than a lot of my recent races.
The post race mimosas and breakfast were delicious too! So, the day was great. Still.....
Speaking of a speedsters,
Marty Gross was 2nd in her age group today in 1:23:26!
Sunday came in ahead of me in 1:19:11 and Julie was in just after at 1:22:12!Great job everyone!
Friday, September 10, 2010
Forgiveness and digging out of holes
Lately, I've been running solo more than not. While I truly enjoy the company of friends on a run, I've come to appreciate a run for itself. That enjoyment is helping me with consistency. My pace is more even and I'm getting out more.
Around mid-July I posted a goal of 40 miles a week and a 1/2 Marathon by the end of August. I didn't reach either goal, despite my plans. I actually took that particular week in August off, listening to my body saying, 'enough'. But, since then I have managed to keep my mileage around 25-28 and reached 30 miles/week since beginning my 'quest' for 40. Am I completely satisfied? Uh, no.
I'm not completely satisfied, but I am starting to see some changes for the better. I'm running more consistently than I have for years AND...my runs are fun again! I look forward to them. I'm also more forgiving of myself.
In the past, I'd get so discouraged if a week wasn't going well, I'd throw in the towel and skip several days out of frustration. Know what that gets you? Yep, more frustration! Funny thing, I chatted with two friends over wine this afternoon. It was delightful company and wine, by the way. I mentioned how frustrating it can be to begin. I said that when I begin something new, my inner voice must be overcome. The voice says, "I can't" and I have to dig my way out of that bleak place just to start. They both said they have the same challenge. I may be onto something here! Perhaps the struggle is universal. Maybe we all have to jump out of our little holes and just try.
Some days, a run will start that way. My body will grumble with aches and stiffness and my head is not a motivator. On some of those days, I manage to dig out of from gloom of self doubt and run. Does it always go well? NO! Of course not. Do I feel better when I get back? YES! Of course I do!
Am I still trying to build to 40 miles/week. Yes, wish me luck with that one.
Around mid-July I posted a goal of 40 miles a week and a 1/2 Marathon by the end of August. I didn't reach either goal, despite my plans. I actually took that particular week in August off, listening to my body saying, 'enough'. But, since then I have managed to keep my mileage around 25-28 and reached 30 miles/week since beginning my 'quest' for 40. Am I completely satisfied? Uh, no.
I'm not completely satisfied, but I am starting to see some changes for the better. I'm running more consistently than I have for years AND...my runs are fun again! I look forward to them. I'm also more forgiving of myself.
In the past, I'd get so discouraged if a week wasn't going well, I'd throw in the towel and skip several days out of frustration. Know what that gets you? Yep, more frustration! Funny thing, I chatted with two friends over wine this afternoon. It was delightful company and wine, by the way. I mentioned how frustrating it can be to begin. I said that when I begin something new, my inner voice must be overcome. The voice says, "I can't" and I have to dig my way out of that bleak place just to start. They both said they have the same challenge. I may be onto something here! Perhaps the struggle is universal. Maybe we all have to jump out of our little holes and just try.
Some days, a run will start that way. My body will grumble with aches and stiffness and my head is not a motivator. On some of those days, I manage to dig out of from gloom of self doubt and run. Does it always go well? NO! Of course not. Do I feel better when I get back? YES! Of course I do!
Am I still trying to build to 40 miles/week. Yes, wish me luck with that one.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Kudos to the B man!
Although Brian is not my coach, nor a runner these days, he's a great motivator. Today is his 51st birthday! Happy Birthday Brian!
I told him I'd skip my run this morning in lieu of a hike or a cozy sleep in. He said no that I should get my run in; that we'd have the rest of the day for birthday celebrations. Whether, he said run to avoid cranky Paula or just to be nice, I'm grateful.
I ran with the Saturday morning crew today. We started at 8:15 and enjoyed a perfect pre-fall 60 degrees with sunny breaks. September is delightful isn't it? 9 miles later we were back at the start. After a quick chat and stretch, I came home to patient Brian enjoying his morning granola. He waited while I showered, ate and had some coffee. He opened his presents and then tried out some of his new gadgets (guitar stuff).
I say patient Brian because soon after, he asked about my run. I pulled out the computer, loaded data from my Garmin and showed him my running data. Good lord I'm boring! Ha! We reviewed the last 2 months when I complained that my running hasn't gone exactly to plan. He pointed out that my mileage was good most of the weeks we looked at and encouraged me to look at the positive.
Not only did the B man put up with gadget/food/running-obsessed Paula, he did it on his birthday! Kudos to the B man!
I told him I'd skip my run this morning in lieu of a hike or a cozy sleep in. He said no that I should get my run in; that we'd have the rest of the day for birthday celebrations. Whether, he said run to avoid cranky Paula or just to be nice, I'm grateful.
I ran with the Saturday morning crew today. We started at 8:15 and enjoyed a perfect pre-fall 60 degrees with sunny breaks. September is delightful isn't it? 9 miles later we were back at the start. After a quick chat and stretch, I came home to patient Brian enjoying his morning granola. He waited while I showered, ate and had some coffee. He opened his presents and then tried out some of his new gadgets (guitar stuff).
I say patient Brian because soon after, he asked about my run. I pulled out the computer, loaded data from my Garmin and showed him my running data. Good lord I'm boring! Ha! We reviewed the last 2 months when I complained that my running hasn't gone exactly to plan. He pointed out that my mileage was good most of the weeks we looked at and encouraged me to look at the positive.
Not only did the B man put up with gadget/food/running-obsessed Paula, he did it on his birthday! Kudos to the B man!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Back in the saddle again...
OK, back on the horse today. 4.71 miles. My legs felt less mushy but, thanks to my lack of brilliance and not stretching for several days, I was tight! It's good to run. Even when it doesn't feel amazing. Off to work. Maybe tomorrow will be a blissed out, floaty kind of day.
Friday, August 20, 2010
My name is Paula and I'm a run/blogaholic
It's been 3 weeks since I last posted! There have been ups and downs, been up mountain high (literally and figuratively) and down to the dregs of my energy level.
Since I last checked in, I ran 63.2 miles over 2 weeks and decided to take this week off. What you say? a week off??? Me? Yes.
After reaching 27 miles including some serious hills the first week of Aug., I dropped back to 24.8 miles due to sore legs. That did not help. By week's end, I dragged myself through an 8 mile run with Julie W. who's in a Triathlon Aug 27th in Santa Barbara (Website): http://www.santabarbaratriathlon.com/noHeader/Index.cfm. Check it out. Go Julie!!!
I was so frustrated because I really believe I'm putting in the work consistently. Instead of floating through that run, I was dragging by mile 4. Julie was sailing along after a training brick the day before. She's one tough lady!
Apparently, I'm not. My legs were just jelly and I felt defeated. So, I started thinking...and resting.
I'm sure there are several reasons for my lack of performance but I've narrowed it down to a few...
So, have I slipped into Dabbler Territory? No, I think not. I'm feeling a bit more refreshed. I may even cut this week off a little short and go running today. On that note, toodles for now!
Since I last checked in, I ran 63.2 miles over 2 weeks and decided to take this week off. What you say? a week off??? Me? Yes.
After reaching 27 miles including some serious hills the first week of Aug., I dropped back to 24.8 miles due to sore legs. That did not help. By week's end, I dragged myself through an 8 mile run with Julie W. who's in a Triathlon Aug 27th in Santa Barbara (Website): http://www.santabarbaratriathlon.com/noHeader/Index.cfm. Check it out. Go Julie!!!
I was so frustrated because I really believe I'm putting in the work consistently. Instead of floating through that run, I was dragging by mile 4. Julie was sailing along after a training brick the day before. She's one tough lady!
Apparently, I'm not. My legs were just jelly and I felt defeated. So, I started thinking...and resting.
I'm sure there are several reasons for my lack of performance but I've narrowed it down to a few...
- I'm too old and can't handle the mileage.
- I've started picking up my pace too much and it's burning up my legs.
- I work too much.
- I have a yet undiscovered rare disease that is rearing it's ugly head.
- Aliens are sucking my energy at night.
So, have I slipped into Dabbler Territory? No, I think not. I'm feeling a bit more refreshed. I may even cut this week off a little short and go running today. On that note, toodles for now!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
All the pretty numbers
I realized today I've reached 6 months in blog land. I'm 6 months older too. I'm "in my 40's" at a whopping 41! I've raced a few miles...13.1...26.2...7...Run 300+ miles up to the 3rd of June and about 159 since then. I've dropped about 8 pounds in the last year and the best number? Went from size 8-10 down to a 6. My goal remains the same...50K and beyond...
What do all the numbers mean? Aside from confirming I'm nerdy? The numbers show progress. Even though goal to complete the Chuckanut 50K hasn't changed, I've found my perspective changing lately. My physical goals are becoming less important, more pliable. I'm more consistent with but less ridged about schedules.
In my post put up or shut up , I talked about a shorter term goal; trying to work up to a 50 mile run week. I managed 24.8 miles last week, a little short of the 27 I was shooting for. At another time in my life, I would have taken this one of 2 ways: One would have been failure. I would have looked at the missing 2.2 miles and felt as though I couldn't improve. The other, possibly worse way would be to shrug it off and forget about it (aka, the Dabbler way).
Apparently I've grown a bit. I reviewed my running log and learned a bit. Instead of seeing the missed goal as a failure, I'm revising my schedule and trying for 27 again. The 10% gain can wait and this week, I'll run a bit more on each run and reach the goal. Is this a big change? Not on the surface. But down deep, I feel a little more confident and happy. I guess my 40's aren't so bad.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Gadget Land Love
Report from gadget land. My goal this week is 25 miles. My gadget is telling me I have to run another 3.58 miles. So be it. I feel I could learn to hate Garmin but right now I'm a little in love. I expect hate will come soon as I try to up mileage. I do like the total calories burned. That's a lot of yummy food...
Progress Summary Report (this week)
Count: 4 Activities
Distance: 21.42 mi
Time: 03:39:32 h:m:s
Elevation Gain: 1,630 ft
Avg Speed: 5.9 mph
Avg HR: 158 bpm
Calories: 2,030 C
Total miles 127.42
Progress Summary Report (this week)
Count: 4 Activities
Distance: 21.42 mi
Time: 03:39:32 h:m:s
Elevation Gain: 1,630 ft
Avg Speed: 5.9 mph
Avg HR: 158 bpm
Calories: 2,030 C
Total miles 127.42
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Birthday gadgets are nice!
Well, I realized I hadn't updated since receiving the coolest gadget ever! Drum roll please....
Meet.....My Forerunner® 110 of course purchased from Steve and Genevie's shop. http://www.fairhavenrunners.com/
Yes I got a Garmin for my birthday! So excited and thank you Brian!
Now to bore you with the ridiculous amount of info it downloads...
http://connect.garmin.com/features
Here's just some of the data from today's run.
Whatcom Falls-Woburn Loop
Tue, Jul 13, 2010 10:01 AM (00:50:48)
Whatcom FallsMon, Jul 12, 2010 10:36 AM (00:30:30)
Map ...haven't figured out how to post the map but it's very cool. :)
Satellite
Terrain
5000 ft1 km
Activity Type: Running
Event Type: Training
Time: 00:50:48
Distance: 5.00 mi
Elevation Gain: 315 ft
Calories: 367 C
Timing
Time: 00:50:48
Moving Time: 00:49:26
Elapsed Time: 00:50:48
Avg Pace: 10:09 min/mi
Avg Moving Pace: 09:52 min/mi This is the one I'll focus on :)
Best Pace: 07:09 min/mi
Elevation
Elevation Gain: 315 ft
Elevation Loss: 328 ft
Min Elevation: 84 ft
Max Elevation: 399 ft
Heart Rate
Avg HR: 155 bpm
Max HR: 176 bpm
So, if you do some simple math you'll see I am slower than I thought. Argh the curse of technology. I felt like I was running a 9 minute mile, looked at the gadget and realized I was closer to 10! Picking up the pace really didn't hurt that much and I ended up running at around 9:30 for most of the run. There's 2 sets of stairs, one with over 100 steps in it for this loop so I'll give myself a break. Overall, it's great to have the instant feedback! Definitely the best gadget ever.
Miles this week 8
Total miles 114
Yes I got a Garmin for my birthday! So excited and thank you Brian!
Now to bore you with the ridiculous amount of info it downloads...
http://connect.garmin.com/features
Here's just some of the data from today's run.
Whatcom Falls-Woburn Loop
Tue, Jul 13, 2010 10:01 AM (00:50:48)
Whatcom FallsMon, Jul 12, 2010 10:36 AM (00:30:30)
Map ...haven't figured out how to post the map but it's very cool. :)
Satellite
Terrain
5000 ft1 km
Activity Type: Running
Event Type: Training
Time: 00:50:48
Distance: 5.00 mi
Elevation Gain: 315 ft
Calories: 367 C
Timing
Time: 00:50:48
Moving Time: 00:49:26
Elapsed Time: 00:50:48
Avg Pace: 10:09 min/mi
Avg Moving Pace: 09:52 min/mi This is the one I'll focus on :)
Best Pace: 07:09 min/mi
Elevation
Elevation Gain: 315 ft
Elevation Loss: 328 ft
Min Elevation: 84 ft
Max Elevation: 399 ft
Heart Rate
Avg HR: 155 bpm
Max HR: 176 bpm
So, if you do some simple math you'll see I am slower than I thought. Argh the curse of technology. I felt like I was running a 9 minute mile, looked at the gadget and realized I was closer to 10! Picking up the pace really didn't hurt that much and I ended up running at around 9:30 for most of the run. There's 2 sets of stairs, one with over 100 steps in it for this loop so I'll give myself a break. Overall, it's great to have the instant feedback! Definitely the best gadget ever.
Miles this week 8
Total miles 114
Birthday Weekend
My Birthday just passed...I'm 31 (for the 10th time)
I had a lovely time running the Chuckanut Footrace on Saturday morning. http://www.gbrc.net/chuckanut_footrace.php
It's 7 miles one way to Larrabee State Park. There's music, food and buses at the end of the Interurban trail to enjoy. I ran 1:03:05 for an updated PR. My goal was 58:08...I was in the ballpark but went out too fast and pooped out. It was fun to get out there anyway!
Saturday night, I ventured out on the town with friends to celebrate my birthday eve. Dinner at Boundary Bay followed by some laughs at a few local establishments that may have served alcohol. My thanks to my friends who made the evening lovely!
Sunday morning I woke to a lovely birthday filled with well wishes and fun presents.
Also, my orchid bloomed for the 1st time!
Spain was nice enough to win the World Cup...Ole ole ole ole...ole ole ole ole! My friends Donna and Vincent hosted a lovely party for the event.
I then tried to pick up my car which had lived downtown for the night...no luck for this girl. Here's a pic of the guy who towed my car..... on my birthday.
He was very nice despite the $280!!! for towing my car. But Brian got a fun t-shirt!
Managed to get over the sticker shock of Brian's fancy t-shirt... Watched a movie to recover my lovely day then went out for dinner with Steve and Genevie down at the harbor!
Lovely way to finish my weekend. Thanks to all my lovely friends and to Brian for making all of the last 11 birthdays wonderful!
Miles this week 15
Total miles 106
I had a lovely time running the Chuckanut Footrace on Saturday morning. http://www.gbrc.net/chuckanut_footrace.php
It's 7 miles one way to Larrabee State Park. There's music, food and buses at the end of the Interurban trail to enjoy. I ran 1:03:05 for an updated PR. My goal was 58:08...I was in the ballpark but went out too fast and pooped out. It was fun to get out there anyway!
Saturday night, I ventured out on the town with friends to celebrate my birthday eve. Dinner at Boundary Bay followed by some laughs at a few local establishments that may have served alcohol. My thanks to my friends who made the evening lovely!
Sunday morning I woke to a lovely birthday filled with well wishes and fun presents.
Spain was nice enough to win the World Cup...Ole ole ole ole...ole ole ole ole! My friends Donna and Vincent hosted a lovely party for the event.
I then tried to pick up my car which had lived downtown for the night...no luck for this girl. Here's a pic of the guy who towed my car..... on my birthday.
He was very nice despite the $280!!! for towing my car. But Brian got a fun t-shirt!
Managed to get over the sticker shock of Brian's fancy t-shirt... Watched a movie to recover my lovely day then went out for dinner with Steve and Genevie down at the harbor!
Lovely way to finish my weekend. Thanks to all my lovely friends and to Brian for making all of the last 11 birthdays wonderful!
Miles this week 15
Total miles 106
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Strawberry hills...
It's common knowledge that hills are good for you. It's good to incorporate the extra work at least once a week. Yesterday, I tried to keep up with a human goat named Leah. We ran up to Fragrance Lake. Curses, it's a killer to hike and running is a little...painful.
I managed to keep up with Leah on the way up...at least I kept her in eyesight. My extra-small feet did manage the downhills, my favorite part of the run, a little faster than Leah. I think it's a leg turnover deal. My feet are very short...see?
I refer to my feet as Barney Rubble feet as all my toes are similar lengths. It's a cross I have to bare...yet, I don't fall over. (Brian always says I should fall over because my feet are so short).
So, it's much easier for me to pick them up quickly. I'm hoping there will be more downhill races staged in Bellingham. I'm sure to be the winner.
For the rest of the day we went to Sakuma Market Stand and picked berries.
http://www.sakumamarket.com/
Of course, we had to sample the delicious ice cream...I had a strawberry milkshake and Leah sampled the raspberry one. What's with the word RASPberry. It's a mystery...
Today, I was a bit sore...took the day off in preparation for Saturday's Chuckanut Footrace...a 7 miler on the interurban...such a great course. And...it's my birthday weekend. I plan on turning 31 for the 10th time. :)
Total miles this week 5.5
Total miles 96.5
I managed to keep up with Leah on the way up...at least I kept her in eyesight. My extra-small feet did manage the downhills, my favorite part of the run, a little faster than Leah. I think it's a leg turnover deal. My feet are very short...see?
I refer to my feet as Barney Rubble feet as all my toes are similar lengths. It's a cross I have to bare...yet, I don't fall over. (Brian always says I should fall over because my feet are so short).
So, it's much easier for me to pick them up quickly. I'm hoping there will be more downhill races staged in Bellingham. I'm sure to be the winner.
For the rest of the day we went to Sakuma Market Stand and picked berries.
http://www.sakumamarket.com/
Of course, we had to sample the delicious ice cream...I had a strawberry milkshake and Leah sampled the raspberry one. What's with the word RASPberry. It's a mystery...Today, I was a bit sore...took the day off in preparation for Saturday's Chuckanut Footrace...a 7 miler on the interurban...such a great course. And...it's my birthday weekend. I plan on turning 31 for the 10th time. :)
Total miles this week 5.5
Total miles 96.5
Monday, July 5, 2010
Holiday? What holiday?
Well July 1st and 4th have come and gone (if you don't know, I'm a Canadian living in the US).
I was off for Canada Day and didn't celebrate aside from slacking off all day with friends followed by a lovely, easy evening run.
On Saturday morning, I had a delightful long run with Donna, her running herd and were joined by Julie along the trail! How fabulous...did I mention it was perfect conditions. We finished 9 miles at a comfy 9:14 pace according to Donna's massive Garmin watch.
Did I mention that's on my wish list for my birthday? Hint hint to Brian :)
I took a quick nap then off to work. The night was hectic but still had a good day.
Sunday, I finished off my week with a recovery 3 miler through the park. It was lovely and I felt really good. My legs are officially feeling better. I had a few small aches and pains on the inside of my knees but it appears my legs have recovered. Yay!
All in all, I had a good week and made my 10% increase!
Total miles this week 22.2
Total 91.0
I was off for Canada Day and didn't celebrate aside from slacking off all day with friends followed by a lovely, easy evening run.
On Saturday morning, I had a delightful long run with Donna, her running herd and were joined by Julie along the trail! How fabulous...did I mention it was perfect conditions. We finished 9 miles at a comfy 9:14 pace according to Donna's massive Garmin watch.
I took a quick nap then off to work. The night was hectic but still had a good day.
Sunday, I finished off my week with a recovery 3 miler through the park. It was lovely and I felt really good. My legs are officially feeling better. I had a few small aches and pains on the inside of my knees but it appears my legs have recovered. Yay!
All in all, I had a good week and made my 10% increase!
Total miles this week 22.2
Total 91.0
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Time for the weekend recap. Had a lovely hike with friends and a good long run. Week 2 of 10%.
Saturday, I hiked up to Fragrance Lake with the girls...
we encountered cheerful people, some dogs and this little critter. I believe it's a shrew chawing on a centipede. He would not leave it to be shooed off the trail to safety!
It was a lovely day and the delicious lunch down at the water capped off a delightful day.
I did my long run yesterday and was sure to include a portion of the Chuckanut Footrace coming up on July 10th. I did a 7 mile out and back in 1:05...kind of exciting as I'm shooting for a sub-1 hour race. But, it's all what we can do on the day. We'll see if the stars and my legs align for race day.
Total miles this week 19.4 (+ a hike)
Total miles 68.8
Saturday, I hiked up to Fragrance Lake with the girls...
we encountered cheerful people, some dogs and this little critter. I believe it's a shrew chawing on a centipede. He would not leave it to be shooed off the trail to safety!
It was a lovely day and the delicious lunch down at the water capped off a delightful day.
I did my long run yesterday and was sure to include a portion of the Chuckanut Footrace coming up on July 10th. I did a 7 mile out and back in 1:05...kind of exciting as I'm shooting for a sub-1 hour race. But, it's all what we can do on the day. We'll see if the stars and my legs align for race day.
Total miles this week 19.4 (+ a hike)
Total miles 68.8
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Congratulations Seattle Rock 'n' Roll Finishers!!!!
Congratulations to all who ran Seattle yesterday! I think everyone had a successful day in their own right.
Steve Roguski ran an amazing 1:22 for 47th overall and 1st in his age division!
Kate Rankin ran the 1/2 Marathon on a bum knee!!! Only missed her PR by 5 mins!
Jason Holtrop finished his first ever full marathon in 4:28!
Jackie Simons PR'd in the 1/2 Marathon!
Bev Iverson ran an amazing 3:48 Full Marathon!
Lory Heggarty walked the 1/2 Marathon way under her 4 hour goal!
You all did a fantastic job!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Falling in love with a park
The south side is gorgeous and I still love it. But, I think I'm falling in love with another spot. Yesterday, I ran in Whatcom Falls park. I run here a lot because it's close but frankly, it's beautiful!
Buttercups happily soak up the sun aside most of the trails this time of year.
And the park's best feature? All the textures....
Falling in love with a place is pretty easy, when you run.
Total miles this week 13.4 (+ a delightful hike today)
Total miles 30.6
Friday, June 25, 2010
Put up or shut up time
I've really been having some decent runs in the past few weeks. I'm not running fast and at times I'm really struggling but...I just like running. Leah and I cruised out around 100 Acre Wood. No, we didn't see Tigger or Pooh but the trail was nice, it was sunny and lunch afterward tasted extra scrumptious.
The run was only about a 4 mile run. I felt a little draggy (technical term you know) and slow but just getting out in the sun was great.
Now confession time. I really felt like I'd trained well for San Diego but...I did not put in nearly enough mileage to do a 4 hour marathon. I read a dude'spost rant last night about runners who set unrealistic goals. Basically it was a put up or shut up message.
Steve, the running guru of Fairhaven Runners www.fairhavenrunners.com, says I need to run at least 50 miles a week. When I heard that a few months back, 2 thoughts came to mind. One, are you kidding? I can't do that! and two, a quick I don't need to do that! I might have reached 50 miles weekly 10 years ago. I ran all the time and a 10 miler seemed easy. But, I thought I couldn't do that now....
Well, I was wrong! I am currently just working the 10% rule. Starting from low recovery level mileage, I'm upping my mileage by 10% each week with a goal of 50+ miles/week. It will take about about 8 weeks to get back to that level. I really want to accomplish my goal. So, off for the run I might have skipped if it weren't for needing to "put up".
**Side note, did you know there's an idiom dictionary?
put up or shut up (informal) if you say someone should put up or shut up, you mean they should either take action in order to do what they have been talking about or stop talking about it. http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com
Miles this week 9.5
Total 26.6
The run was only about a 4 mile run. I felt a little draggy (technical term you know) and slow but just getting out in the sun was great.
Now confession time. I really felt like I'd trained well for San Diego but...I did not put in nearly enough mileage to do a 4 hour marathon. I read a dude's
Steve, the running guru of Fairhaven Runners www.fairhavenrunners.com, says I need to run at least 50 miles a week. When I heard that a few months back, 2 thoughts came to mind. One, are you kidding? I can't do that! and two, a quick I don't need to do that! I might have reached 50 miles weekly 10 years ago. I ran all the time and a 10 miler seemed easy. But, I thought I couldn't do that now....
Well, I was wrong! I am currently just working the 10% rule. Starting from low recovery level mileage, I'm upping my mileage by 10% each week with a goal of 50+ miles/week. It will take about about 8 weeks to get back to that level. I really want to accomplish my goal. So, off for the run I might have skipped if it weren't for needing to "put up".
**Side note, did you know there's an idiom dictionary?
put up or shut up (informal) if you say someone should put up or shut up, you mean they should either take action in order to do what they have been talking about or stop talking about it. http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com
Miles this week 9.5
Total 26.6
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Ode to the Cascadia 4
I love my shoes. No, I'm not kidding. I love them. I've tried to replace them and can't. Well, I'm not willing. First, they're beautiful. See? They look good with jeans!
Second, they have carried me through trails filled with mud, over hot concrete and back. I don't even think they're that worn out...
Third, they fit like a well-loved pair of gloves. I have a second pair of shoes that I begrudgingly wear. But, my Cascadias beckon to me and I listen. Then I run and my knee hurts. I think, shoot! I have to switch to new shoes.
Oh the heartache. So, I ordered another, identical pair of Brooks Cascadia 4. :) That's love baby.
Second, they have carried me through trails filled with mud, over hot concrete and back. I don't even think they're that worn out...
Third, they fit like a well-loved pair of gloves. I have a second pair of shoes that I begrudgingly wear. But, my Cascadias beckon to me and I listen. Then I run and my knee hurts. I think, shoot! I have to switch to new shoes.
Oh the heartache. So, I ordered another, identical pair of Brooks Cascadia 4. :) That's love baby.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
I love popcorn
Ran the last 2 days. A quick run around Whatcom Falls yesterday. It was nice to get out and justify the movie snacks at Karate Kid 3. I love Jackie Chan and popcorn...I digress. The movie was fun and the popcorn was delicious!
Today I ran 8.5 miles on the Interurban trail with the some friends. My legs are still turning over but they feel a might tired. Tomorrow, a day off for certain. Why does the end of a run always feel so long?
Off to ponder that and nap before work.
Total miles this week 17.1
Total 17.1
Today I ran 8.5 miles on the Interurban trail with the some friends. My legs are still turning over but they feel a might tired. Tomorrow, a day off for certain. Why does the end of a run always feel so long?
Off to ponder that and nap before work.
Total miles this week 17.1
Total 17.1
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Yoga and ice today
Nice run yesterday. I still feel a little tired and the old legs are saying, "you really need to rest silly!" But, run I must. It was a lovely but overcast day and I felt great after I finished. Then of course, the enormous lunch at Little Tokyo with friends and coffee. It still is all about the food.
Today, my knee is talking to me so I iced it and sat in my jammies for the morning. But, it's a cross training day so I did some yoga.
Today, I did some yoga with Chaz (slightly irritating name). It's sort of a nice little workout on a rainy day.
Check it out...
http://www.primitivemedia.net/
Then click on Yogamazing.
No, I didn't do this move today. In fact the chances of my body ever doing this are slim to none. There is a short and free podcast on this site and several free on I tunes.
Namaste...
This week total 8
Total 8
Today, my knee is talking to me so I iced it and sat in my jammies for the morning. But, it's a cross training day so I did some yoga.
Today, I did some yoga with Chaz (slightly irritating name). It's sort of a nice little workout on a rainy day.
Check it out...
http://www.primitivemedia.net/
Then click on Yogamazing.
No, I didn't do this move today. In fact the chances of my body ever doing this are slim to none. There is a short and free podcast on this site and several free on I tunes.
Namaste...
This week total 8
Total 8
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Goal Update
I've run twice since the marathon last Sunday. I tried a quick run Wednesday and managed 2 miles of slow and some stretching. It was a little painful and...a relief! Pretty much just ran to prove I wasn't broken. With that out of the way, I went back into rest mode. I walked with friends, caught up on rest and stretched.
Yesterday, I went for a training run. Yep, back on the horse. I ran a 3 mile route and felt strong, and free. Resting is great and it was welcome until my legs could climb stairs at full speed (that was Saturday). Now it's a relief to start again.
The 4 hour marathon is a reasonable goal and I'm going to keep trying. My goal race is GoodLife Fitness Victoria (formerly Royal) , October 10. http://www.runvictoriamarathon.com/
It goes through downtown Victoria, past lovely parks and back.
I think I'm in it for the shirt.
On a quick review of my training I can see opportunity for improvement and I'm in the ballpark. This time I'll try to work on speed and do some serious hill training. Hills and speed were my Achilles heel this time around and I won't make the same mistake again.
Next race will be the Chuckanut Footrace July 10 http://www.gbrc.net/chuckanut_footrace.php.
It's 7 miles, a little hilly and fun. Perfect! Train for a little speed and hills right off the bat!
There's also a great looking August race in Issaquah! Squak Mountain 1/2 Marathon (and 50K...not yet) http://www.4thdimensionracing.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=100
Frankly, it looks horribly hilly and loads of fun. I'm planning on eating a lot that day.
OK, all caught up.
We'll call this mileage day one...
Training miles 5
Total 5
Yesterday, I went for a training run. Yep, back on the horse. I ran a 3 mile route and felt strong, and free. Resting is great and it was welcome until my legs could climb stairs at full speed (that was Saturday). Now it's a relief to start again.
The 4 hour marathon is a reasonable goal and I'm going to keep trying. My goal race is GoodLife Fitness Victoria (formerly Royal) , October 10. http://www.runvictoriamarathon.com/
It goes through downtown Victoria, past lovely parks and back.
I think I'm in it for the shirt.
On a quick review of my training I can see opportunity for improvement and I'm in the ballpark. This time I'll try to work on speed and do some serious hill training. Hills and speed were my Achilles heel this time around and I won't make the same mistake again.
Next race will be the Chuckanut Footrace July 10 http://www.gbrc.net/chuckanut_footrace.php.
It's 7 miles, a little hilly and fun. Perfect! Train for a little speed and hills right off the bat!
There's also a great looking August race in Issaquah! Squak Mountain 1/2 Marathon (and 50K...not yet) http://www.4thdimensionracing.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=100
Frankly, it looks horribly hilly and loads of fun. I'm planning on eating a lot that day.
OK, all caught up.
We'll call this mileage day one...
Training miles 5
Total 5
Saturday, June 12, 2010
OK, now the fun race report.
My friends and co-marathoners, Karla (R) and Layla out for a super easy pre-race run Saturday. 
Yes, it is Kara Goucher! She seems super nice and was doing a Q&A at the expo. Totally dedicated to helping high school runners. PS, she's pregnant...can BARELY tell!
Karla and Layla with the ELVI (didn't know Elvis had a plural did you?) Elvis was in the building... and outside...and on the race course...oh and don't forget...
and sometimes SHE lives...
Reunion after 10 years apart! Pretty girls Karla, Trisha and Layla.
Me...pre-race. Yikes! Nervous much?
So we went outside to get a cab and guess what? "it'll be a 30 min wait" What we said? We took off walking and lucked out. We met up with Bobby Martinez (L) and his brother. I saw the race numbers and offered 20 bucks to get to the start. They gave us a lift to the race NO CHARGE. In fact, Bobby checked in with us after the race! Wow, that's some good karma! PS, he also ran a 3:17 marathon for a 2 minute PR!!!
The HUGE start!
Favorite picture of Me (on the left), Layla and Karla. Race complete, no injuries and everyone happy! NICE!!!
Layla (L) in for a post race soak. I know they say ice is best but a hot tub? WITH beer? really? What choice did we have? The gal on the right is our old friend Trisha.
Race shwag...obviously I need practice gathering the haul. Of course, I did say I'd be good. :)
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
The "Official" San Diego Marathon Report
Well, San Diego is over and no 4 hour marathon for me...yet. So onward to the race report. Geek alert, I'm posting my splits!
I'm disappointed as my official time was slow. So, well off-pace but I'm not sad... There are a few reasons I didn't make my goal. For one, I could have run more and I need to pick up my everyday pace. So, get a little faster and more consistent with my runs. Hey! This is going to happen. I can feel it!
and now? What's my plan? Well try try again of course!!! 10-10-2010 is Victoria Marathon.
- Overall Race Pace 10:45...a full minute + slow!!!!
- 5 Km 28:38 9:12 pace, felt OK and on track
- 10 Km 56:29 9:04 pace ...great! I can do this
- 7.4 Mi 1:07:34 9:08 pace still ok
- Half 2:06:54 9:41 pace, decided I could try for a 4:15 my outside goal. Still, happy
- 14 5 Mi 2:22:43 9:50 pace...see a trend? Yikes, this is painful
- 20 5 M 3:31:24 10:19 pace...I was accepting a 4:30 time...then my legs fell off and I dead-man shuffle to my final time of...
I'm disappointed as my official time was slow. So, well off-pace but I'm not sad... There are a few reasons I didn't make my goal. For one, I could have run more and I need to pick up my everyday pace. So, get a little faster and more consistent with my runs. Hey! This is going to happen. I can feel it!
and now? What's my plan? Well try try again of course!!! 10-10-2010 is Victoria Marathon.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Why race?
OK, a final check in before I travel to San Diego. Today, I had my teeth cleaned. Riveting right? well here's my point. My hygienist runs but doesn't race anymore because of pre-race jitters. I wanted to convince her of how fun it is to race so here's my top ten reasons to race. (thanks David Letterman)
10. This guy...he started the 1998 Honolulu Marathon...from a crane. Where else but a marathon can you stand under an American Sumo wrestler...with a gun??? Huh? Where!?
9. The food. Let's face it...being able to eat your face off after a long run or race is AWESOME!
8. Runner's legs. Girl and boy runners have great legs so...
seriously, there aren't many legs like Usain's
This woman looks amazing...and fast!
7. Buying more running clothes, (because you have to look cute for the race....)
6. Friends that meet you at or travel to out of town races.
5. Finisher medals!!!!
4. Volunteers and spectators telling you how great you're doing...even when you look like a pile of poop.
3. Having a focus on something other than life's responsibilities. "I HAVE to run, there's a race to train for".
2. Being proud of yourself.
AND THE #1 REASON TO DO A RUNNING RACE....
Crossing the finish line feeling like you came in 1st when it's likely you came in somewhere between 12th and 3,729th.
10. This guy...he started the 1998 Honolulu Marathon...from a crane. Where else but a marathon can you stand under an American Sumo wrestler...with a gun??? Huh? Where!?
Chad Akebono Rowan (American Sumo Wrestler)
9. The food. Let's face it...being able to eat your face off after a long run or race is AWESOME!
8. Runner's legs. Girl and boy runners have great legs so...
This woman looks amazing...and fast!
7. Buying more running clothes, (because you have to look cute for the race....)
6. Friends that meet you at or travel to out of town races.
5. Finisher medals!!!!
4. Volunteers and spectators telling you how great you're doing...even when you look like a pile of poop.
3. Having a focus on something other than life's responsibilities. "I HAVE to run, there's a race to train for".
2. Being proud of yourself.
AND THE #1 REASON TO DO A RUNNING RACE....
Crossing the finish line feeling like you came in 1st when it's likely you came in somewhere between 12th and 3,729th.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)