August 15, 2009

Worst. Run. EVER!

Seriously. It was so frickin' hot and humid. I made it to the Fleet Feet water stop at Diversey and had to turn back. I tried to run back, but that didn't happen. In fact, out of 15 miles I only ran 3 and walked back 2. UGH. Thank goodness I have a chance to try again tomorrow.

August 13, 2009

Today I did 5 miles with Lynn (walk/run) I'm so proud of her!! This is the first time we've done 5 together. I also went to the gym and biked 15.5 on the stationary bike and swam 1000 yards. We're getting to the peak of both Marathon training and Tri training...what was I thinking when I wrote this training plan?!

August 12, 2009

I got to the gym early today. I saw Hector and as he stretched me, I was much looser than I had been on Monday. Maybe, there's something to taking it easy...

But we did abs and arms today. I biked 18.5 miles after that in about 50:00 on the stationary bike. Finally, I hit the pool for 1000 m swim. I was going to do more, but I knew I had 10 miles with Julia later today.

August 11, 2009

I walked/ran 4 miles with Lynn today. I swear, everytime we run together, it's crazy humid. :( We did our run in 52:00.

August 10, 2009

This morning I saw Hector. I was still tight and a mess from yesterday. BLAH.

I swam 1200m in about 30 minutes after the weight training.

Never made it out for a bike ride...clearly, I have a severe case of the fuckits.

August 9, 2009

Bonked...Hard.
I ran 8 and walked the last two back to the car. I was on pace until I bonked. 2:12
(Look at me being a frickin' ray of sunshine. Man, I sucked it up today.)

August 8, 2009

CARA long run day--10 miles in 2:00:00. I was going to go to the gym after the run for a swim and 8 more miles, but I fell asleep on the couch after eating a bagle with peanut butter. Ooops. I guess I'll have to try again tomorrow.

August 7, 2009

I saw Hector this morning, I told him that he couldn't kill my legs, so he hit the abs and arms. I did 3 miles on the elliptical as a warm up and then 10 on the bike. I had every intention of swimming, but it didn't happen. I really need to get those swims in if I'm going to not die in the Tri in a few weeks.

August 6, 2009

I don't know why I'm so lazy. I never made it to the gym or the Lakefront for a swim. But today was Lynn's first 5k! Yeah!! I'm so proud, she only walked the water stops. It was the Elvis is Alive 5k Fun Run, and we finished in 39:00 clock time. Go Lynn!

August 5, 2009

This morning I rode 10 miles on the Lakefront Path. I headed to Ohio Street Beach to do my swim. There was a coach who was clearly an Ironman. She was so encouraging!! In fact, I swam a whole mile in the open water!! Yeah!!

Later that evening, I met with Julia and we ran 9 miles out in her hood. Aside from the skunk that seemed to be following us, I felt good. I wish there were more training days like this!

August 4, 2009

So not feeling it today. It was humid when Lynn and I went for a run. We walked/ran 4 miles in 57:00. Later, Jack and I went biking...still felt like toast. Ugh. I only made it 13.1 miles.

Blah, blah, blah.

August 2, 2009

Chicago Rock & Roll 1/2 Marathon!!

I know this race will always have a special place in my heart. It's the former Chicago Distance Classic, and also my first major distance race. Today was a perfect day for a run and a PR of 2:25:33

August 1, 2009

CARA Long Run-- My shoulder is still sore from the bike fall. It wouldn't be so bad if it was just a sore pain, but every so often it sends a sharp pain down the right side of my back.

I ran 8 miles (instead of the perscribed 13), because I suck :(

July 30, 2009

This morning I went for a run with Lynn. We still walked quite a bit and I'm concerned with how she'll do on the Marathon. I ran 3 miles with her (walked 1.5 ish) and then ran an extra mile on my own.

I also went for a bike ride with Jack and Danielle on the Lakefront path. It may have rained, but where it did there were no bugs. I'll take a nice summer rain over bugs any day! We did 30 miles in about 2:10. It was my longest training ride yet!

There was one minor mishap. Near Fullerton, along North Ave. beach my tire started to slip. I completely lost control of my bike and fell on to the sand. I tried to keep my balance, but went over the handle bars. Fortunately, it was sand and not concrete...because that could have been bad. I was pretty sandy and I got some road (sand?) rash. My right side (shoulder, hip and ankle) are a little sore too. Hopefully, that's my last spill for a while.

July 29, 2009

No run with Julia today :(
I was also flaked and thought my appointment with Hector was at 9:00 am instead of 7:00 am...so I missed that too. AND I had take both Monday and Tuesday off!! (I guess I shouldn't complain. I've only missed 6 days of working out in a total of 32.

I did 9 miles on the elliptical. If I hadn't brought a magazine, I would have felt like a hamster on a wheel. I did it in 1:40:37.

July 26, 2009

Glenview Triathlon

I have to say, I love this race!

Again I was passing people in the pool. I my split was 5:45...I guess 6 minutes was too slow. I think next year, I'll be putting 5 down for the estimated time. I hit the first transition in under a minute and did the bike in 33:00. My T2 was 59 seconds! and then my run was 34:00. I really need to get my run faster because I really shouldn't be slower at the run than the bike. My total race time was 1:15

The awesome news? I came in 6th in my age group!! The bad news? I was one second away from 5th. I also looked at the age group standings and realized that if my run was faster, I could place in the top 3. In fact, only the 1st place person had me beat on anything other than the run. I think I'm going to work on this for next year and go for it!

Who wants to help me drop my 5k time?

Here are my stats and splits:
overall place: 206 out of 363
division place: 6 out of 24
gender place: 65 out of 177
time: 1:15:29
pace: 0:
swim: 5:46
trans 1: 1:32
bike: 33:05
trans 2: 0:59
run: 34:07

July 25, 2009

BIX!!
This year I ran the BIX! I never thought I'd want to do it...I mean, have you seen the Brady St. Hill? I have to say, the hill wasn't that bad! I was running really well...sub 11:00 for some of it. I was shocked how well I did. The worst part of the race, was the McClellen St. Hill---that sucked...A LOT! I had to walk. Even with all the hills, I ran it in 1:18:45. I know I could have gone faster, but I was saving it for tomorrow.

The best part of the race? Oh, yeah--I did it dressed as Tinkerbell! :)

July 23, 2009

This morning I did 4 miles with Lynn. It was soooo humid, definitely a hard run for both of us.

Then I met Melissa at the Ohio Street Beach (with the 10 mile bike) for her first open water swim. It wasn't smooth, but it was a good swim. We did a 1/2 mile. I'm proud she did it!

July 22, 2009

This morning I worked with Hector...he likes to pick on my legs. I then made myself do 750 meters in the pool. I was kinda tired, but I told myself that I needed to work on pushing off the walls and to focus on that. I got through it.

That evening, Julia and I ran 8 miles (1:35:00) out and about. It was a tough one, but I'm glad we powered through.

July 21, 2009

This morning I ran with Lynn for the first time. We ran up to Caldwell Woods. I thought we'd go for four but we made it 3 with some walking. We saw 4 deer, a doe with 2 fawns and a young buck that had an antler missing. We called the buck "Stumpy".

July 20, 2009

Today was an ass-kickin' kinda day!

10 miles on the bike at the gym.
Then Hector kicked my butt for an hour.
Followed by 500 m swim where I focused on pushing off the walls in preparation for Glenview.
Finally, Jack and I went out for an 18 mile ride in the evening.

Boo-yah!

July 19, 2009

CARA Long Run...the Fleet Feet Women's 5k/10k was this morning too...it was 7.1 to get around the racers in 1:24:00.

July 18, 2009

No long run today! Nope, it's Julia's birthday so whatelse would we do? Oh, yeah---

THE WARRIOR DASH!!

It was a 6k with "13 Hellish Obstacles!" Ok, so some of them weren't that hellish...But we donned our Braveheart attire and hit the mud.

I really liked the wall climb. (Even if I had to wait 10 mintues to do it, making my time 50:00) I straddled the wall and yelled "For Scotland!!" And everyone cheered. Julia had the funniest moments when she ran into the wall rather than jumping over it...I feel a little bad laughing, but it was so damn funny!

Running through fire wasn't bad, because it was really hot coals (BULLSHIT!) but it was muddy fun with beer and a medal! Good times with Laura, Danielle and Julia...and HAPPY 30th BIRTHDAY to Julia!!

July 17, 2009

I drove down to the Lake and took a nice bike ride (total 10 miles) to Ohio St. Beach for a swim. I did a 1/2 mile in the lake. I hate when it's choppy and cold. The open water swims get easier, right?

July 16, 2009

Hector's back! (And kicking my ass) I saw him for an hour and then did 4 miles on the elliptical in 44:00.

July 14, 2009

Hector's in Cabo :(
I did 4 miles on the elliptical in 43:00 and then swam 800 meters in 18:00 minutes. Nice quick day.

July 13, 2009

Went biking with Jack and Danielle along the Lakefront Path...my ass hurt after sitting on the hard canoe bench for three hours. We made it to Buckingham Fountain and I needed to turn around--my bum hurt too much! We did bike 17 miles, most of which was spent with me hovering above my bike seat!

July 12, 2009

This morning was the second CARA Long run. 2:00:00 for another 10 miles.

Then in the evening I went canoeing with Judy. We went from Addison to Chinatown in the Chicago River in about 3 hours. It was beautiful to see the Loop from the river at dusk! I defiantly want to do that again...but maybe next time a kayak instead of a canoe.

July 11, 2009

CARA Long Run 10-miles 2:00:00...finished on the hill!

July 9, 2009

CFD-Run for the Kids 5k

This really is one of my favorite races...they made it just a little better by adding sandwiches! They already had Chipotle's chips and guac, but now they had Pocket's calzones!! (even vegetarian ones--woo!) Danielle and I ran this race to celebrate her birthday (Happy Birthday, Danielle!)

I managed to keep up with her for the first mile. However, the path was crowded and people don't know how to place themselves at the start of a race (annoying!!). I was weaving in and out of people. Then just after mile 1 we hit the CFD cadets running (and singing) in formation. I thought of Amy and said, I need to beat these guys and managed to pull a head of them. I felt pretty good through the first half and even completely passed the cadets before the turn around. I wish that I had it in me to push more in the second and third miles because while I PRed, I didn't make my goal of under 30 minutes. I am proud of my PR with a 30:44 and a 9:54 av. pace...that under 30 minute mark is just 45 seconds away!!

Good times!

July 8, 2009

I was so dreading my 7 mile run today. Julia wasn't able to run, it was a dreary sort of day, my parents came to town, I haven't had a rest day in a while...you know how it is. But I read Julia's blog, and she had gotten her 7 in, so that motivated me to get off my sorry butt and go for a run.

I decided that since my parents didn't have keys to my house, I would run to Home Depot on Grand between Nagle and Oak Park to get the keys made and run home. I think I just needed a goal, because once I got about a mile in to it, I started to feel pretty good. I made it to the Depot, and realized it's actually 3.6 miles away, so I ran up the side street to Diversey (don't wanna do more than I have to!). I made it back in 1:18:42, (11:15/mile pace). Not too shabby considering I just wasn't feeling motivated to run.

July 7, 2009

I headed to the gym again at 4:45...getting up early is getting easier. I ran a mile on the elliptical before Hector got there. It was a full body kinda day. I finished out my run with 3 more miles before I left for a total of 4 miles in 42:11.

Update: Later in the evening, I went for a bike ride with Jack. We went 12 miles in 43:00.

July 6, 2009

It's a tale of two workouts. This morning I was up at 4:30 to meet Melissa at 5:00 am on the Lakefront for a 10 mile ride. It's hard to explain to someone how to use the shifters on the bike when they have a different learning style. I kept using visual references and that did nothing for her. I've gotta work on that. We did 10 miles in about 44:00.

This evening I headed to the gym to run and possibly take a swim. However, the pool is closed until further notice. WTF?! It's July--the heart of tri season!! I made due with 5-ish (I think it was about 5, the machine actually said 7...) on the elliptical in 55:11. This makes up for that missed 4 miler and the mile that I'll miss for the 5k on Thursday. I really need to stop being neurotic (about food and working out), but that's probably not going to happen.

On another note, I tried one of the EAS protein shakes from the powder. Even though I used water to make it it still tasted good. That's the first protein shake where using water to make it didn't mix up to taste like crap. I do have the one proviso to add...use COLD water. Warm water makes it taste icky. Once I added ice to the shaker it tasted MUCH better. :)

July 5, 2009

This morning I was clearly having issues food issues. I stared at one of Dan's left over cupcakes for 10 minutes before I ate it. I then proceeded to throw out the remaining two so that I wouldn't eat them.

I ran the 9 miles with out the aid of my watch. It had locked. Melissa said that I needed to update it. I have to see if I can find the ANT stick and download the software for my new computer. Melissa finished about a minute after me at 1:50:00, so I guess with out a watch being a minute off over the course of 9 miles isn't too bad.

Melissa, Danielle and Dan Ashley, asked about going to breakfast. I just couldn't do it. The thought of eating made me want to cry. Seriously, what the hell is wrong with me? Logically I know I ran 9 miles and I should eat, but I didn't want to. I came home, had a glass of milk and some left over pasta salad from Hagen's (I know, probably way worse than what I would have eaten at breakfast). And I, of course, feel like a moose. I know last month I took of 5 lbs, but why am I freaking so much? I'm hoping I can chalk this up to pms or something.

July 4, 2009

It was a beautiful morning for a run! It was odd that Montrose was already crowded at 6:00 am with families coming down to claim their spots for the 4th fireworks. I didn't even realize you could see the ones at Navy Pier from there.

The 9 miles flew by. Again, another effortless run. I'm praying that this continues...I'd hate to bonk or get burned out. My watch died somewhere after mile 7 but Danielle assured me that we were on pace. That would make the time 1:48:00.

July 3, 2009

I finally slept in...until 8:30!! It was truly awesome.

I had a nice breakfast, and then headed down to the Lakefront. I parked at Montrose and rode down to Oak Street Beach. I donned my wetsuit (pretending that I didn't look like Shamu) and headed to the water...HOLY BALLS!

1) It was cold. Eventually I got used to it, but it was so chilly at first I lost my breath!
2) Open water kicked my ass! I forgot how hard it was compared to the pool!

I did about 1000 meter swim. I'm not sure about the extra 200 meters, the lap lane is only marked at the quarter and half miles. I guess-tamated, but I'm sure it was close. I'm counting it as my two 500 meter swims for the week. I'd still like to get one more in (since I missed it last week), but we'll see.

I swam (and by swam I mean thrashed about) for an hour and biked 12 easy miles in an hour.

July 1, 2009

Today's run with Juila was one of the best runs I've ever done! The weather was perfect, every step was light and every breath was effortless. The first 3.5 miles flew by! After we turned around the run just continued with a negative split. We did 7 miles in 1:21:45.

June 30, 2009

I was SUPPOSED to meet Hector at 5 am for a work out....did he show? No! Me irritated?! Who me? So I hit the elliptical (because I didn't have my swim suit to hit the pool), and did 7 miles. I guess this counts for this weeks 3 and last weeks missed 4.

Jack and I went for a ride on the Lakefront Path, finishing 22 miles in about 1:35:00 ish (I really need to start wearing my watch.) It was cool and over cast and a perfect day for running or biking...too bad North Ave. beach is always crowded. I think that the city needs to widen the path and have a running lane, a cycling lane and a lane for dumb-ass people who don't pay attention. The dumb-ass lane also needs to have fencing so they can't randomly pop out and harm others.

June 27, 2009

This might just have been the best long run ever! 5 miles...that's it!! I'm almost a little sad that I'll be in Wisconsin for the Sunday morning run because this is the easiest weekend of the training cycle!

The humidity was down from last week and we did the 5 miles in an hour. Not to shabby!

Now, it's off to Sauk City for Laura's Wedding!

June 24, 2009

So...Humid...
So...Hot...
I just couldn't make myself go out yesterday. I saw Hector this morning and I was thinking of doing my 3 from the day before, but it didn't happen. I did a mile warm up in 11:00 on the treadmill. After an hour of strength training, I didn't feel like I had the time to run more so I just swam 300 yards.

I'm glad I didn't get the earlier run in, because the 6 miles with Julia was so hard!! We ran the first two and I felt like I was gonna die. She let me take a break and then we ran to Oberweis for water. I think this might mark the first time in my life that I actually walked in that store and didn't want ice cream.

Julia and I decided that it was so hot, we would do mile repeats to finish. Meaning, every mile we'd take a rest. I needed it to catch my breath, the air was so thick and humid. We finally finished the run in a total running time of 1:14:56. I was just happy to be done with the run.

ps...the crunch fish fillets that Julia made for dinner were awesome. :)

June 22, 2009

Jack came by and picked me up for another bike ride, we started out on the Lakefront Path thinking we'd do at least 2 of my training rides. We thought we'd do 17 or 20 depending on how I felt. At the 10 mile mark we went for it to do all 3 training rides (a 10, a 7 and another 10) for a total of 27 miles.

I was starting to get sore about mile 24 or 25. I finished but was sore in my right IT band and lower back. I'm happy that I did it in under 2.5 hours. I know I have to do 26 for the Tri at the end of the summer, and I'm sure I can cut that time down...let's bring it on!

June 21, 2009

CARA Training Day, Part 2
I showed up this morning and Danielle was there! Yeah for running buddies. It kinda hurt my feelings when she responded to my "Hey!!" with "What are you doing here?" I told her that it hurt my feelings when she said that and she responded bringing up last weeks comments. I just repeated that it made me feel like I wasn't wanted around. I may be too sensitive, but I don't think a "Good Morning" is too much to ask. After I said my peace, I changed the subject (Yep, I'm that non-confrontational), and everything seemed ok. There weren't group leaders for the 11:30's either. Danielle took that group, and I took the twelves. I finished in the exact same time as yesterday...and it was more humid this morning! I was pretty happy with that!

Later, Jack came by and taught me to change my bike tire. I practiced a few times and then we went for a ten mile ride on the Lakefront Path. We made plans to go out again tomorrow...yeah!

June 20, 2009

CARA Training Day! 7 miles...pretty uneventful. I hate switching from winter to summer because I keep thinking I'm done at the totem pole, but then I have to run another mile and a half to the finish. Ugh...I know it will take a few weeks, but it's hard to shake it! We did the run in 1:24:56.

June 18, 2009

This morning, I saw Hector, he kicked my ass for an hour. I then did my 3 mile training run in 33:38 on the elliptical ('cause I was tired after yesterday!) and another 300 yard swim. I have to say, it's nice to get all my training done and out of the way early.

June 17, 2009

Can you say "Binge Workout"?

I rode my bike to the gym...after all I've gotta get my tri training in. As I got there, I realized that I had a flat and no inner tube to change it. So...I went in and did my workout anyway.

I finished the ride on a stationary bike for a total of 6 miles. Next, I ran 3 (in 33:02) on the elliptical, followed by a 300 yard swim. I called Jack for a ride since my bike was flat and started the walk home. I made it about 2 miles when he caught up to me and drove me the rest of the way. We had a little sit down about changing bike tires...and turns out that the hole was at the valve, and even if I had tried to patch it, it probably wouldn't have worked. Jack also mentioned that he would be my biking buddy. Hooray for someone to go biking with!!

I headed in, took a quick shower and then headed out for a 6 mile run with Julia...why do I do such things to myself? We did that one fairly on pace at 1:12:56. We tried to go for icecream...too bad the ice cream nazis at DQ locked the doors at 9:58 (No ice cream for you!). We made do with McDonald's, but it just wasn't the same.

June 16, 2009

Today I saw Hector in the morning...I did 1 mile warm up in 9:50 (awesome!)...and then he killed my legs. I didn't really feel like finishing my run, and I had to get to a meeting at LHN for teachers, so I headed home. I never got the run in due to the crazy lighting (and my lack of motivation before the rain started).

I also met Laura at Xport in the South Loop for a cardio sculpting class and a pilates class that kicked my ass. Seriously, it was insane. I'd love to meet her again for this hour and 1/2 of ass kicking!

June 14, 2009

Marathon training part 2...

Melissa asked Danielle to run with her in her first day of marathon training...I haven't done my weekday runs, so I figured I'd go and support her and make up my two runs. I didn't expect for Melissa to yell "It's about time you got here!" when I showed up. I know sometimes I'm too sensitive, but it really did make me feel like crap. I stayed in the back of the pack for the entire run and talked with the other runners. It was such a lively bunch...I think I'll be back next week! (Oh, and it was 6 miles in 1:12--again!)

June 13, 2009

Ah, first day of CARA Marathon Training!

Easy 6 miles in a perfect 1:12:00. I love running with Danielle...she just seems to make the runs fly by. Seriously, she must be part gazelle or something. I must look like a behemoth next to her. I'm so glad she didn't decide to run at a faster pace!

Tour De Cupcake started today. Danielle and I went to Angel Food near her house. It was only a 2 sprinkle kinda cupcake. More details (and photos) will be a new weekly feature on my other blog--stay tuned as Danielle and I begin our quest for the best cupcakes in Chicago!

June 10, 2009

UGH!! JURY DUTY--it totally cuts in to my training time.
We got out early today, and I did 3.01 miles in 31:19. Only because I'm aggravated with the judicial system and needed to blow off some steam!

June 7, 2009

Just headed out for a run. I wasn't really paying attention to the distance. I kinda was going for 4 miles, but I looped it out farther than I intended and it was 4.5 in 55:00. I haven't done a run just for fun in a while...it was nice!

June 6, 2009

Girls on the Run 5k

Just a little race...untimed and I got to run with Xitali. I think we were about 45:00, but it doesn't matter because I'm so proud to get to run with one of my students in her very first 5k!

June 3, 2009

Happy National Running Day!

Today Julia and I were supposed to run for 5 miles. After 3.5 my legs were toast. We made it four, but I just couldn't push myself to get through that last mile. We walked back to her place and I feel like my legs were drunk. They just weren't working or walking in a straight line. We did 4 miles in 48:45.

I'm guessing that's my body's way of telling me...REST!

We also stopped for Oberwiss...mmm..Chocolate Peanut butter Ice cream. Clearly, my eyes are bigger than my stomach, because two scoops were too much. No worries, my friends. I did not let the ice cream beat me. :)

June 2, 2009

So sore...so tight...
I biked to and from the gym (6.3 miles) and then ran a mile on the treadmill (11:30 pace). Hector stretched me and worked my core. Usually I love stretching but today it hurt. I didn't want to play. I was so sore!

May 31, 2009

Minneapolis Marathon!

It was a beautiful day for a race! This was such a pretty course, it started just out side the Depot Hotel (let me tell you, just walking out your door to run a race is AWESOME!).

I was doing so well, my pacer was awesome. I stayed with her until mile 15 through hills and all. The problem? Ft. Snelling and the forest of pollen. I just couldn't maintain. (Seriously, check out those splits!)

I walked/ran with some women for another mile and a 1/2 and then by 17 completely bonked. I was in tears until I got out of the scary lonely forest. And some paramedics wanted me to quit (bastards). But I saw Dan and got a hug and he walked with me for about a mile.

Around mile 20, I heard a familiar voice... none other than Larry Macon! I stayed with him and finished the race with this running legend. It really was awesome to talk with him for the end of the race--definitely made the bonk worth while!

I did finish sub 6:00, and I'm a little relieved that I don't have another marathon for a few months.

bib number: 1237
overall place: 1150 out of 1201
division place: 89 out of 91
gender place: 496 out of 524
time: 5:56:51
pace: 13:37
15 k: 1:49:19
16 m: 3:11:02
gun time: 6:01:21

May 27, 2009

Ah, the taper...the week where I'm crabby and hungry.

Today, I ran 4 miles with Julia. This was a special sort of run. We ran 3 miles, stopped at IHOP (I had a waffle and she had pancakes) and then we ran the mile home. BEST RUN EVER!! Seriously, ever since the 50k, I've taken running and eating to a whole new level. 4 miles in 48:36*.

*waffle aided

May 26, 2009

I was supposed to see Hector today, but he had an emergency dentist appointment...I hope he's ok! I went to the gym and I was so tired! I made it just over 2 miles on the elliptical and just gave up. I suppose I could argue I'm on a taper? I think the definitive excuse is that I was in bed asleep by 7 pm and didn't wake up until 6:45 am. (And yes, I am still tired--what the crap?!)

May 23, 2009

Soldier Field 10 Mile!!

It was an absolutely perfect day for a run. I ran the race with Shaun...we haven't run together since the Wisconsin Marathon...I missed him! We were running pretty well through the whole race, and it was hard not to get excited because by mile 5, we were fairly certain that we would be hitting a PR.

Maybe we did get a little excited because we ran the race as a negative split!! The first 5 miles were slower than the second 5!! Sure it was only by 5 seconds but it was still pretty awesome. I also took off once we hit the tunnel. I went Devon Hester on that field...it was great. I ran it for a PR time of 1:54:04.

Here's Shaun and I at the finish...Ah, beautiful Soldier Field!

May 21, 2009

I went for a 3 mile run today. I don't know why I feel like I'm dragging so much. I just don't feel like I'm pushing myself, but on the opposite side, I feel like my body just won't go faster. I shouldn't complain, I did it in 34:55...which isn't bad. I don't know what's up, but I'm worried about the SF10 on Saturday. I really would like a PR, or at least not to be over 2 hours.

May 19, 2009

I biked 6.3 miles to and from the gym to day to see Hector. I hit the treadmill for a mile to warm up. I was just dragging today. We did arms and core. I was so not up to par. I don't know what's the matter with me.

May 17, 2009

This half sucked. I was tired for the first 1/2. Then after mile 9 I puked up the gu (then Gatorade at 10.3)...ugh. I finished in 2:45:54. Worst pacer ever. I felt so bad I had to stop. I really sucked it up. It's a good thing they can't fire a volunteer.

I also was running early on, and this woman came up to me and complained about the size of my group. I said I'm sorry, this is a race and it's not my job to tell people where to run. Sure, Saturday mornings I have the authority to ask people to run 2 by 2, but not during a race. It's there race and if she has an issue, she should talk to the course marshals. Clearly, someone's going to get a phone call about the rude pacer.

I need something to get my rear back in shape. I don't know if it's rest, a pep talk, more sleep, less stress (ok, less stress would be great regardless of my running). I just don't know what to do with myself. I guess I'm hitting a training wall.

May 14, 2009

I really did not want to go back to the gym today. But Hector called and I felt obligated. He put me on the treadmill to warm up and I rocked a mile in just over 8 minutes. Either I'm still pissed off at the gym or that thing needs to be calibrated. He stretched me and worked my core and arms.

I saw Julia and her family tonight. I got tons of hugs (even a Batman hug!) which is just what I needed. Julia and I ran 5 miles in 1:01:00. It made my total, 1:09:00 for 6 miles. Not too bad. I've got a 1/2 this weekend, and I just don't have a good feeling about it...all well, I'll do it anyway.

May 12, 2009

Today I forgot my sports bra. I hate when that happens because that means it's an elliptical day rather than the treadmill (much less bouncing). I did my three miles in 36:00 and then headed to the bike. I did 15.5 miles in 45:00 and then went to see Hector. He was telling me that I looked skinny and that I had a tiny waist. Yeah me!! He proceeded to kick my abs (ha ha!) for an hour. After that I was still feeling good so I went to the pool for a swim. I was up against a crunch because there was an aqua aerobics class starting in about 15 minutes. I did my 500 m swim in that time. I was tired, but I felt good about all that I had done today.

I was walking back to my locker feeling pretty good about myself, and that's when the problems started. I turned the corner and saw my stuff strewn about. In the less than 20 minutes I was at the pool someone had broken in to my locker (with a lock on it and stolen my stuff!!) My Blackberry, wallet, planner, keys and to add insult to injury MY CLOTHES!!! They stole my work clothes and my sweaty gym clothes!! Including my shoes and underwear!! All that was left was my bag and a few smaller items. Even the lock was gone!!

If that wasn't bad enough, I gathered what's left of my things and had to walk out to the front desk in a bikini that's a size too big and about 5 years old and a towel to go and ask for help. On my list of mortifying things, "public nakedness" is up there. I was at the front desk, obviously upset, and they asked what was taken and then offered to help me look for my stuff. Then one of the girls asked "Why don't you get dressed and we'll help you look for your stuff." I was very upset at this point and may have yelled "I can't because THEY STOLE MY CLOTHES!!" Really, because I make it a point to hang out at the gym front desk at 6:45 pm (a peak time) practically naked.

Several of the girls and one of the managers went to the locker room and searched it for me, not finding any thing. One of the girls asked what size clothes I wore and picked out an outfit for me at the pro-shop. I felt so pitiful saying "I'm sorry, I can't pay for these." She told me not to worry about it. Thank God, because I was so uncomfortable!! I put on the clothes (and bless her heart) it was a perfect fit. Unfortunately, (and I hate to sound ungrateful) the girl picked out a white t-shirt. The problem, was the wet swim top underneath (Hello! Wet t-shirt contest!) How I didn't end up with a date out of this, I'll never know.

After I was dressed, they let me sit at the front desk and call to cancel my credit and debit cards until the police came. I also called Jack to come and get me and to tow my car home. The police filed a report for me, they asked me where my shoes were and I was stifling back tears when I said "They were stolen." The officer was really nice and not only gave me his number in case anything happened but also sent a police car to sit outside my house to make sure I was safe and no one was trying to get in (extra nice!). Jack took me to Verizon to activate an old phone and called a locksmith for me and stayed with me until my locks were changed. It's a huge nightmare as I work on getting EVERYTHING replaced.

May 10, 2009

Ah...a week off of running. Probably shouldn't have taken it off (hello guilt complex), but I was just not feeling it. Yep, that's me trying to justify it in my head. :) It will have to be back to business next week because I have races 3 weeks in a row (4 if you count the Girls on the Run 5k) and then back to marathon training.

I did 2 miles on the elliptical in 25:00 and worked with Melissa and her trainer for an hour.

I also need to stop eating like crap. I found a website that's free and allows me to track my calorie consumption. I've found when I'm on, I'm awesome, when I'm off it's really bad. The thing is that everything does balance out caloricly for the week. I want to drop some weight (too loose the spare tire), and ensure that I'm eating more healthy. I loose the battle at the end of the week. I'm no 4 out of 7 days. I need to be better.

May 7, 2009

Why am I so frickin' lazy? I haven't run since the second marathon. I biked to and from the gym today (6.3 miles about 10 minutes total). Hector and I did a full body kind of work out for an hour. I've been feeling so lethargic and don't know why.

I got an email today from the people who are running the Spring 1/2 Marathon on the 17th. Some how I got on the list to be a pacer for the race. Maybe I accidentally sent them my application for summer training? I have no idea. But the fact of the matter is that I will be the 12 minute mile pacer and finishing in 2:39 at this race. Fortunately, 12 isn't too hard for me to hit for 13 miles.

Is any one who reads this running this race an want to keep me company? :)

May 5, 2009

Yesterday there was no working out...just sleeping. Today, I headed to the gym to see Hector. I was going to run and bike, but I didn't get the run part in before our work out. I biked 15.6 miles on the stationary bike...which wasn't easy, because none of the bikes have straps. Basically it was a quad work out...there was no pulling up. (Grrrr....)

Hector stretched me out, he couldn't believe I was a few days off of a marathon. I was much worse last week. I guess, the body adapts. We did some leg and core work with some stretching.

After all that, I thought about running a couple of miles, but I was just tired. I listened to my body and just didn't run. I figured my body was telling me to rest. Either that, or I was just being lazy. I can always make up those 2 miles later. :)

May 2, 2009

A year ago, today, I ran my first marathon. Since then I've run a total of 5 marathons, 3 triathlons 1 ultra marathon and many other races of varying distance from 1/2 marathons on down. I've become a group leader for CARA and watched many friends new and old cross the finish line for their marathons (first or fifth...). I'm stronger, have more endurance and have become a completely different woman in the last year (and even more different than 2 years ago!)

Today was the Wisconsin Marathon in Kenosha, Wisconsin. It was a beautiful day for a marathon, 60 and sunny! We started early with our usual coffee and bagel with peanut butter to get things moving. Unfortunately, that routine may have been our downfall. The coffee did not work as well as it usually does (more on that later).

The course was interesting...looping the downtown for a .5 mile and passing the start. We headed through the downtown again and then North up to Carthage College. I was worried about it being hilly, but the course was in downtown Kenosha and along the lakefront. There were a few inclines, but I wouldn't say the course was hilly.

I also decided that I don't like Heed sports drink. I took it for the first time about mile 4, declaring rather loudly "This stuff tastes like ass!" Fortunately, my fellow runners and the high school aged students working the water stop thought it was hilarious.

After looping back through the downtown, we ran past our car (for the third time) and I ditched my long sleeved shirt under the tire. Clearly, I just can't keep my clothes on when I run! :) As we were heading south, my gut started to churn. I had just passed the 12 mile mark when all of a sudden I NEEDED a bathroom. I asked some spectators if I could please use their bathroom and I was lucky that they did. I had been running with Shaun up until this point and I told him to keep running. I ran to this woman's bathroom and tore it up! It wasn't pretty. After I finished, I thanked her and ran away. The coffee wasn't doing kind things to me. I finally caught Shaun by mile 16. He had gotten excited and started going too fast and was starting to bonk. I walk/ran with him through 17. I took a Hammer Strength gel...it was NOT good. It tasted ok, but mixed with my already churning stomach I was not happy. I felt like a tiny lawn gnome was in my gut, twirling about with his pointy hat and gnawing on my intestines. I walked/ran miles 17 through 19 due to the cramping. By 19, they were offering more Hammer Strength...ugh, not a chance! And I started to try to get myself moving.

By 20 I was in a solid running place. I wasn't going fast or on my usually 12 minute pace but I was truckin'. I started counting (not out loud) the people I was passing. I caught and passed 7 people from mile 20 on...not too bad considering there was only 526 in the marathon total, I was a back of the packer.

There wasn't too much beer on the course...only one beer stop. But it was really good micro-brew stout. Best beer ever!! It sure as hell, beat that Heed crap! I finished the marathon in 5:39:44... 33 seconds off of a PR! At first I was a little crushed. But considering I had GI issues, it's not bad! On a positive note, I can say I ran this marathon a full half hour faster than last weekend...and that's pretty bad ass! (And for those of you keeping score, this time would have beat the Biggest Looser Reject...)

Danielle had finished before I did, and I found that she was having the very same GI issues, having stopped 4 times (she's never had to stop in a marathon). Shaun also had to stop...so it wasn't just me. I think it was the coffee, and I've decided that Maxwell House (provided by the hotel) is no longer welcome in my home.

Aside from that, it was a good race. Pretty flat, great cheese shaped medal and wonderful weather. After the race, we headed to the Mars Cheese Castle (because, who doesn't love cheese!!) This brings the count to 5 marathons, in 5 states...45 to go!

April 29, 2009

Today was just the workout I needed. I went to Super Julia's for a gourmet fish taco dinner (they were awesome--I had 2. Very yummy but not as much fun to run!) We did an easy 3 in 36:12 and then 45:00 of yoga. I got the chance to stretch my legs and run a little and then literally stretch in yoga. I'm still a little tight from the marathon, but this was just a perfect light mid-week workout before marathon number 2.

April 28, 2009

Now that I've had some distance from the CMM I've decided a few things. If it had been hot and flat I would have been ok. It's just hills and hot combo that did me in. I even think that hills and cool might have been ok. (I can test my theory on Saturday--Kenosha is supposed to be about 50 and hilly...fingers crossed I don't bonk!)

I went to the gym and ran a mile (1.1 in about 11:15) before Hector stretched me. I still hate my IT bands and my Anterior Tibialis. I need to make friends with my stick and foam roller. (Can someone explain to me why I didn't make a massage appointment?) I'm hurting more than I did after Chicago last year, but I'm hoping I'll be ok for Saturday.

I'm not even stressed about another marathon, I'm stressed that my IT band and shins are still sore from last week. Say a little prayer I get all this soreness out of my system before Saturday!

April 25, 2009

"You have to forget your last marathon before you try another. Your mind can't know what's coming."--Frank Shorter

I've seen this quote a lot on various marathon sites. My problem is that I forgot just how much hills and humidity suck when running, let alone throw a marathon into that combination. I fully expected Nashville to be a challenge. I hadn't trained as hard as I did in the last cycle and Nashville is a hilly course. What I did not expect was for the weather on race day to be 85 and humid. This race was like Chicago, but with hills. I think I'd rather know the bad stuff is coming rather than start with ignorance. I guess I've got a bench mark to solve that problem now!

I was doing alright in the first 5k, I was running 10 minute mile splits, even with the hills. By mile 5 I had taken my shirt off because it was so damn hot. I began to slow to an 11:00/11:30 av up through the 10 mile mark...and then I started to slow down and things started sucking. By mile 13 I was starting to hate the world and by mile 14 I was on the verge of an asthma attack (and tears).

So, I did what any sane person would do. I called my own personal superhero. That's right, I sat down on the curb in the middle of the Country Music Marathon and called Julia. Thank God she answered and talked to me. I was distracted enough to focus on answering her questions. It was good that she talked me through it. I'm not even sure what she said (sorry, Jules!), but it kept me going. I walked until mile 15 and then started with a 60 second run 60 second walk (ah, the Jeff Galloway back up plan!). I really couldn't take running the up hills at this point, but I figured, I just have to finish.

I stopped at an aid station and asked for some Vaseline and a hug (I'm not kidding). The water stops were sparse and using hose water because they were out of bottled (at least there was water). I just wanted to be done. I was so hot, I felt like I wasn't even sweating any more.

By 19, I checked my phone and saw Julia had sent me the Chimpanzee Riding on a Segway (bababababa!) and that cheered me up. I had 2 very serious revelations at this point; 1) I do not want to run a marathon in July unless it's somewhere in the Arctic circle, and 2) I need to find the Chimpanzee Riding on a Segway song for my iPod. (I'm serious! It would be good to run to!)

I finally finished in over 6 hours for my worst marathon time ever. I was also sad that I got my ass kicked by a biggest looser reject (by 15 minutes). I guess I should be proud that I listened to my body and didn't try to kill myself. Someone did actually die at this race running the 1/2 marathon. He was only 26 and had a heart attack. I finished what I started, and did it safely. I did not have a major asthma attack. My IT bands hate me right now as does my anterior tibialis (thanks Matt, Mindy and Melissa for teaching me the name of that muscle--I still hate it!)

The positives are that I finished. I got a medal. I can cross Tennessee of the 50 State Challenge List. And the last one...I never have to run this race again!

April 22, 2009

Today was a good run with Julia through the neighborhood 3 miles in 34 minutes. It's so nice to have another established running day besides Saturdays, it definitely keeps me motivated.

Julia mentioned that she had a panic moment about registering for another marathon...I was thinking about it...I'm still not even worried about Saturday's marathon. Has the marathon lost it's allure? I'm not sure...but I'll find out on Saturday. Maybe it's that I just don't think things through? Is it that I just like a challenge?

My last option is that I just don't have anything better to do than run for 6 hours. Yeah, that's probably it.

April 21, 2009

The taper bitch is back in town! Everything annoys me. I feel fat and restless. I hate the taper. Thank God it's only one week.

I went to the gym and did 4 miles on the elliptical. I saw one of the trainers and he asked me if I was ok because I wasn't wearing my regular running clothes. I told him I was fine...these were actually my pajamas and I desperately needed to do laundry :)

Hector gave me a good stretch and tried to get out all the knots, which were many and it was painful--damn foam roller!

April 19, 2009

Today Melissa, Danielle and I worked out with John. It was a PT kind of day. I did 6 miles on the bike in 20 minutes and then an hour of PT.

I'm feeling tired and crabby. It worries me that I'm tired and crabby on a taper. I could see crabby, but not tired. I'm conflicted on being over trained? I donno what's up. It's hard to not go back to the gym for a second work out (I was watching the 2008 Ironman re-broadcast and that's a HUGE motivator). I didn't get any swimming in this week. :( I know that's my weak point for tri-training, and I really want to go back to the gym for a second bike ride and a swim.

Maybe I'll call Julia to talk me out of it. :)

April 18, 2009

Last long run of Winter Training 2009...

We were up for 12, but since half of us were a week off of a marathon, we split the taper difference (supposed to be 8), and did 10 miles in 1:53:05. (On a side note, if I can do this pace for the Soldier Field 10 Mile, I'll have a new PR!)

We were SUPPOSED to have bagels at the end of the run, provided by Magellan Properties...not so much (I do not like them now). Apparently, even though they invited the marathon people, they didn't take in to account the 11:30/12 minute mile group, and that's crap. They did drive us back to our cars...if they hadn't I really would have been unhappy. However, Danielle and I made up for the bagel fiasco and went to Sweet Mandy B's for a post run cupcake!

April 16, 2009

I went to the gym and did a fast, easy 3 on the elliptical and then Hector proceeded to kick my ass. I was covered in Awesome Sauce. It was a tough leg work out. Stairs, weights, lunges, backwards lunges...

I'm also not making more friends at the gym. I was running up and down the stairs (skipping stairs, of course) with two 10 lb dumbbells over my head. After a few times I started to get tired, and this other trainer (not Hector, all though he was there) starts barking at me "Come on, Let's Go! Let's Go! Let's Go!" I stopped and turned and looked at him. I said "Are you yelling at me?" He looked at me wide eyed and said "Uh..." I let him have it. I told him "Excuse me! You don't yell at me. My own trainer doesn't yell at me. Your focus needs to be on her (the client he SHOULD have been working with). You DO NOT yell at me." And I continued running down the stairs. Yes, I wa struggling at that point and pushing myself. But yelling at me to work is not going to motivate me in anyway. Was I too harsh on him?

April 15, 2009

Still feeling poopy, no news on the job front. If any one knows of teaching positions for Secondary Art, Psych or Middle School Art, Social Studies or Science for a National Board Candidate with a MAT, let me know.

Julia came over and ran 3 miles with me. It really was just what I needed. I'm so glad we've set up a mid-week run. I really was going to say "Screw it!" and crawl in to bed. (It's hard being told you're a great teacher, but due to budget cuts we can't keep you.) But I cleaned the house (kinda) and really enjoyed the 3.1 in 33:01. It was a good pace and a really good solid run.

Thanks, Super Julia! I'm glad you're a friend who motivates me to run!

April 14, 2009

So...I got some awful news at work. My position is being cut in 1/2...so I'll be looking for a job. I found out after work today. I got on the treadmill and due to my "no crying while running rule" every time I felt the tears, I kicked it up. I did 4 miles in 43 minutes.

Hector stretched me for a 1/2 hour and I was pretty bendy. There was a point where I was laying on my stomach on the stretching table with my arms folded and my chin resting on them. Hector had my leg stretched back and my foot was touching my spine. At that point all the trainers at the PT desk turned and stared. (Because that doesn't make me feel self conscious!). Clarence, one of the trainers, says to me "Damn, girl! You know you're a freak?!" To which I replied "If my leg wasn't wrapped around my head right now, I'd kick your ass!"

After a good stretch, Hector and I did core work...I love the bosu and all the crunches. It's really good for running. Maybe someday, I'll loose enough weight to have six pack...(haha! The things I say to make myself laugh!)

April 11, 2009

20 miler! BOO-YA!!

The first 10 miles started out wonderfully. I it was a clear day, in the upper 30's when we started. I was very dehydrated when I started. I burned through my fuel belt in the first three miles. By mile 5.5 I had gone through it a second time. I as feeling better by Soldier Field. I know it's because I had been on Lasiks all week. I swear that I'm the only woman in the world that gains weight (at least 7 lbs.) running 20 miles. The bright side to the water stops was the last one. I was very excited because there were snacks!! I discovered at the 50k I really do <3 snacks when I run long distance. There were Cheeseit's, gummy bears and some Chex Mix. Clearly, I hit the Cheeseit's and gummy bears.

We made it to the half way point at 1:55 ish. It was the way back that was the problem. Running in to a 30 mph head wind was not easy. I made it 2.5 miles and my asthma got the better of me. I just couldn't catch my breath!! Danielle gave me the "It's ok to walk, chica." But all I wanted to do was make it to the water stop.

Once there, (and after I could breathe again), I made the decision to run the rest of the way south. I knew if I continued north, I'd never make it. I'd either have to walk or have an asthma attack and have to quit. I had run the first 10 miles just fine, so I told Danielle that was my decision, and that I would take a cab back to the start. I offered any of my runners if they wanted to join me, and only Donna (who also happens to have asthma, and was having a hard time herself) joined me. We continued along at an 11:30 ish pace. At mile 16 we stopped for a bathroom break and then at each mile marker after that, Donna said she needed a walk break. Even with our breaks we still finished in 3:58:01.

On the cab ride back to our car, the cabbie kept rolling down the window...I guess after 20 miles, there's a serious funk factor. We had run from the Waveland Totem Pole to the South Shore Cultural Center at 68th (with a 2.5 mile double back in there). Somewhere between Navy Pier and North Avenue, the cabbie asked "Wait, you ran this far?" To which we both had a proud "Yup" as a reply.

I'm so glad that we ran south...I don't think I would have made it as easily going north. We even got shirts promoting the Magellan 1/2 Marathon after we finished. I guess I have another tech shirt for the pile.

April 8, 2009

Today, I thought I had an appointment with Hector. It was a game of phone tag; he called me and didn't think I got the message and I called him and thought he got the message. So I ran 7 miles before the gym, and waited for him. When I found out he wasn't coming I ran the 3 miles home. (Yes, my friends, it was a 10 mile run day.)

Then I met Juila for dinner (yummy pasta!) and we did 45 minutes of yoga. Clearly, I haven't done yoga in a while. I really need to get back in to that routine, because I'm definitely not as bendy as I used to be :( Getting old sucks.

April 7, 2009

Hector cancelled on me this morning, so I made it an easy day. I did 5 miles on the elliptical (my legs and left foot are still tight)in 54:47, 6 miles biking in 16:40, and swam 200 yards in about 6 minutes.

April 6, 2009

Rest day?! Who needs a rest day. (Ok, well--I might...) Today I went to the gym and just had a short work out. I did 5 miles on the bike in 13:55 and swam 225 yards in the pool (about 7 min.).

April 5, 2009

I didn't sleep well last night, so I tried to stay in bed as long as possible this morning. Which didn't give me much time in the morning. :(

I did 3 miles in 30 minutes on the elliptical and did strength training with John and Melissa for an hour. It was more PT than weights, but it was better than sitting on my butt eating waffles.

April 4, 2009

Today was a beautiful day for a run! We headed out for 14 miles and completed the run in 2:42:58.

After the run, Danielle and I voluenteered at one of the water stations for the Lakefront 50k. It really was a lot of fun! (Ya'll should voluenteer for one sometime!) We met Marathon Maniac Larry Macon. He's been Maniac of the year several years in a row (check out his profile...you'll see why). It really was awesome to meet him. Danielle and I geeked out about it and got our picture taken with him.

Good times!

April 2, 2009

First of all, I do not heart doctor's appointments and it was probably not a good thing that I went to the gym after. I did arms and core with Hector for an hour. Then, I got on the elliptical and did 5 miles followed by 5 miles on the bike.

I probably would have done my 10 miler if I had something to eat in that time, but I figured it was best to just do the 2 hour workout instead of 3 and head home.

March 31, 2009

Sore...so sore....

I went to the gym early, and ran 5 very slow miles (1/2 on the treadmill and 1/2 on the elliptical). I also biked 5.1 miles in 14:00. Hector saw how sore I was from the past few days and stretched me out...it was painful! He took the whole hour to stretch me and foam roller. As much as it hurt, I have to say I felt a million times better after he was done.

On another note, I entered a contest for the Minneapolis Marathon to submit a quote for banners that would be at each mile marker. While some were completely stupid, one of mine won! I'm sure you may recognize it on the mast head of this blog. :)

Check it out and the other winners here!

March 29, 2009

Welcome to Chicago, where it will snow on one of the last days of March. It won't be just a dusting, oh-no, it will be 3 inches of slush with 30 mph winds. And in that mess, will be an 8k; the supposed marking of the summer running season in Chicago.

Did I really want to roll out of my nice warm bed for that? Not really, but I paid my $40 bucks and wanted my free beer (and lets face it, I needed the training run). It's a good thing I did, because I ROCKED IT!!

Yeah, my feet were pretty numb (and cold and wet), and my legs felt like lead from my 19 mile training run yesterday. But I had a monster 3.5 minute PR of 51:35 (oh, why did I walk through the two water stops!!!) which is a 10:23 av. pace.

Clearly, my winter marathon training has paid off. Boo-YA!

March 28, 2009

Wind. It blows. Literally, figuratively and everything in between. Today's run was brutal. It was supposed to be 18, but it ended up at 18.5. The wind was 30+ mph, Lake Michigan was attacking the Lakefront path, and after about an hour, the sky was over cast dropping the temperatures. At about mile 13, I rolled my ankle and thought about packing it in, but I walked/ran (60/60) the next 3 miles.

Then I went with Danielle to the Shamrock Shuffle expo. We were so cold that we had to run the to Navy Pier. We were tired (she had run 20.5 at this point) but it was too cold to walk. That evened up the mileage to 19 for me and 21 for Danielle. We very seriously ate our way through the expo, followed by more carbo loading at Beer Bistro. I finished the 19 miles in total time of 3:45:11 (11:52-ish?).

March 26, 2009

I really was going to run 5 miles day. That didn't happen. I made it 3 on Judy's treadmill (I hate treadmills). I guess 3 miles is better than no miles.

On another note...my boards are ready to be packed!! That means I might actually have time to work out?! Who knew?

March 24, 2009

Yeah! I got in a mid-week work out! (Yes, it is possible!) I got home from work (a little stressed and frazzled) and I decided to run to the gym. I had mapped out a route that would add the mileage to get the mid-week long run taken care of. I was worried about time, so I cut out one of those miles. I ran from my house to Cicero and back (skipping the Portage loop) with a quick stop to grab my iPod that needed a little bit of a charge, and ran the rest of the way to the gym for a total of 5.2 miles.

I beat Hector there (I guess I could have ran around Portage once) and so I hopped on the treadmill for .6 mile until he got there. After a quick stretch, we did arms and core with only a little legs. He was kicking my ass today!

After that, I ran the 3.2 miles home. I was clearly tired, because the run home was much slower than my pace there. I also think I was running low on fuel. I hadn't run with a hydration belt, or taken any gu and I had been working out since 3:45 and it was after 6:00. I should have known better, because even when I run on the Lakefront Path, I have a shot blocks in that amount of time. So much for being stubborn. I do have to say the last 1/2 mile or so was pretty damn fast. I started feel some GI cramping and decided it was in my best interest to make it home quickly. I'll just leave it at that.

But in all, it was an hour of weight training and a total of 9 miles in 1:45:03

March 21, 2009

It was such a beautiful day for a run! In fact, I was over dressed and had to take off a layer! That's always fantastic! I loved all 12 miles, and ran them in 2:22:45.

I did get a ton of laughs on the path. I was wearing the shirt Barb had given me for my birthday. It says across bottom back (above my butt) "Does this shirt make my butt look fast?" Several people had read it to me while I was running, and my group, of course thought it was hilarious. It's always nice to make people laugh!

March 19, 2009

Hector's back! Hector's back!! Hector's Back!!!

I was out running miles when he called asking if I was coming in for my regular appointment, so I ran home and got to the gym. I did two more on the treadmill for a total of 4 miles in just of 40 minutes and then an hour of weight training with Hector. :)

March 16, 2009

I met Danielle at her house and we walked to Lincoln Square (about a mile) for a drink. The special at Daley's was for these Cherry Coke things...it was Diet Coke (at least for me) and Cherry Vodka. Tasty! Then we went to the Old Town School of Folk Music for a Pilates class. (I know, the location sounds weird to me too...but it kicked my ass!) and then back to the bar for another drink followed by the walk home.

Danielle pointed out that this was truly a cross training day for me...walking and Pilates instead of running and hard liquor instead of beer! I think I like this brand of cross training!

March 15, 2009

I so very much wanted to stay snuggled up in bed this morning. No, I didn't go out yesterday. In fact, I think this marks the first time since I've been legally allowed in bars that I haven't gone out for St. Patrick's Day. Sad. (Stupid boards!)

Any who, made it an easy day (because my IT band is very tight) on the elliptical and only did 3 miles. And then John kicked both Melissa and my asses. It was a whole lotta push-ups kinda day. Most of mine were sad, but I made sure on the last one that the brim of my hat touched the floor. :D

Oh, and you may be wondering, "What happened to Hector?" BIG problems at the gym. I'm hoping he will be back on Tuesday. If not, I'm going to be a very sad, and distraught Bethie.

March 14, 2009

OMG.

Seriously.

Ok, so today shouldn't have been this hard. In fact, it probably was the perfect day for a run. Almost no wind, clear blue skys, drunk people to entertain me... what more could I ask? Oh, how about for my gut to behave itself and not make me feel like there's a leprechaun tying it up in knots. Yeah, that would be great. Thanks.

The first half of the run wasn't bad. I was a little wheezy, but manageable. I knew something was up this morning and I was hoping I'd be ok for the run. Unfortuantely, I had to make a few stops in the bathrooms along the path (thank God, they're open now!) From North Ave. back to the start, it just wasn't good. I had horrible cramps. I struggled through mile 13. I hit 14 and went to the Galloway method I use when I'm feeling less than fab on a run. Run 60 walk 60. I can convince myself to run for 60 seconds. Then I get to walk. It's really what got me home. And I end up running the 60 faster than I would normally run, so it all balances out. Using this method, I still made it back at 3:06:24 which gives me an 11:40 average pace. Not too bad, considering.

I got back to the start and the Lung Power team was there. Yeah, the one that supports the Hustle up the Hancock. They had snacks!! While I have not yet partaken, they had CHEDDAR BUNNIES and SNACK PACKS!! How awesome is that?! Totally made the 16 miles worth it.

March 12, 2009

I still have the Fuckits.

But I made myself go out and run. It was chilly! Why is it 25 degrees in the middle of March? The average this time of year is supposed to be 40 (says Tom Skilling). But it was light later, so I made myself go. And really, it's what I needed.

I started out thinking I would do the 4 miler, but as I was out there, I said "Just one more mile!" And I made it before dark. Yes, I know 5 shouldn't be this hard, but with all the crap that's been going on lately, it's hard to give myself the time to go. I'm glad I did because I feel much better about things. I guess sometimes all you need is a little pavement and an iPod to make things seem a little better.

March 7, 2009

I have a case of the Fuckits. I knew it wasn't going to be good, but then again, I didn't think it would be this bad. But to be fair--it wasn't completely my fault (thank you, Mother Nature).

We started the 15 miles, and things were going well. The sky wasn't too ominous, cloudy but not bad. We hit the turn around at the sledding hill near Soldier Field and the heavens opened and the Good Lord seemed to smite us! It was in-freakin'-sane! We made it to the tunnel just north of Roosevelt and regrouped. Between the lightning and hail, we decided to bail (safety first!) and head to a bar. (Have I mentioned I LOVE my running group?!)

So we made it 8 miles, and headed to an Irish pub. Isn't marathon training fun?

March 5, 2009

I went to the gym today and was still feeling mopey and glum. I ran 2 miles on the treadmill, worked with Hector (who commented that I still was not my usual self). And then did the last two miles I needed to do.

I was feeling like running when I started, but as I progressed, I was thinking about Grandpa. I did not want to be crying on the treadmill, so I stopped after a total of 4. I think it's time for a good ol' fashioned Irish Wake.

March 3, 2009

Ran one mile in the eleven minute range. Worked with Hector, but didn't really feel like it.

February 28, 2009

Long run day on the Lakefront Path. I really wasn't sure how this was all going to go down. I ran only 2 miles during the week and that's just half of one of my required training runs. To top it off, it was windy and cold. And by cold I mean, there were actually sections of the Lakefront Path that were closed off with a police car because the lake was on the path and the conditions were too treacherous.

We headed out on our run taking the streets along Michigan Ave. There was one runner being a complete dick to Danielle and I, telling us that we didn't know what we were doing at the turn around point. It was simply because we had taken a different route that he was getting his tights in a bunch Once we got back we realized that one of our runners was not back. Danielle and I ran back down to see if we could find her. We made it to Belmont and called the site coordinator. She told us that she would call someone to drive LSD to help find her. Even huddled together with my wonderful rendition of "I Can't Fight This Feelin'", Danielle and I were freezing. We got picked up and still couldn't find her. They called off the search and took us back to my car. I was so happy that I had a mylar blanket in my trunk from a marathon.

And no worries, the woman who never made it back grabbed a cab and didn't finish her run. She's ok. And I ran a total of 12 miles (instead of 10).

February 26, 2009

This week just will not end!!

Again, I'm late to the gym...and late to work with Hector. He took it easy on me today. I think he could tell that this week has been kicking the crap out of me. We did arms and core. I ran about 2 miles on the treadmill...I know, I know that's less than half of what I should be doing. I really should have pushed through because I know that running makes me feel better, but I really just was feeling the boards pressure and I wanted to get home to work on it.

It's going to be a long run on Saturday morning after not making any of the weekly runs.

February 24, 2009

After a horrible, no good, very bad day, I went to the gym. I just wasn't having a good day there either. Usually, Hector can snap me out of it but it just wasn't happening. I was tight, and off kilter. I believe I cussed out a Bosu. There was no treadmill running...I couldn't handle falling off a treadmill on top of everything else.

February 22, 2009

Today marked my third climbing of the Hustle Up the Hancock. That means, of course, that Jack has been smoke free for 2 years. (Mom, you can send a care package to thank me any time.)

I thought that Melissa was going to climb it with me, but it turns out that she was unable to get a trade at work. I asked around to see if anyone wanted to take her bib for the climb. Finding no one, I decided that the bib should not go to waste…so I climbed it twice.

Crazy? Maybe. Not allowed (I got busted by one of the coordinators who recognized me—no worries, she just made me promise not to do it again.) Awesome? HELL YEAH!!

I wasn’t sure going in, if I’d actually be able to finish. I didn’t push myself through the first climb, knowing I’d go for a second round. I completed the first climb under my bib in 25:14. And that, my friends, is a PR!!! My second attempt was also taking it easy. I finished the second attempt in 26:09...not too shabby! I don’t think I’ll attempt a double climb again, but I’m glad that I did!

And for the record, that’s a total of 188 floors and 3,264 steps.

Febrary 21, 2009

OMG! Winter can be done any day now. Really.

Today's long run sucked ass. It snowed all night leaving a good 4 to 6 inches of snow on the ground. The run was supposed to be 13 miles. The path was plowed, but there were sections that were so icy that not only I was falling down, but other people in my group were falling too. I mention that because, well, a spade's a spade; sometimes I'm klutzy.

Anywho, we ran fro the Totem Pole at Waveland to North Ave. Danielle and I decided it was too slippery, so we headed back. Our group got water near the parking lot and went north. Before we headed on the second leg, one of the runner's bowed out. I wish I knew which email was his. I wanted to send him a note to see how he was doing. On the way back a second runner was having stomach issues. I felt so bad. I walked/ran with him. He decided that he couldn't finish and quit at 11.5. I was so cold from walking at that point, I just couldn't motivate myself to do the last 1.5 miles (lame, I know).

So, I headed back to the car to wait for Danielle and the last remaining runner who was with her. I'm so proud of both of them for finishing it. I only wish I had the balls to get in that last 1.5. I did know his email and sent him a note to not worry about it and to not let it bother him (or try to make up the mileage).

I guess I should take my own advice and not beat myself up about it either. :(

February 19, 2009

Hector did another full body work out today. I did much better than Tuesday's work out. I did run 3 miles after the work out at an 11:11 pace (33:31 total). That was tough. It's hard to let him kick my ass, then run. I can't wait until after school tutoring is over--I'll be able to do my running before Hector gets a hold of me.

February 17, 2009

Hector kicked my ass today (full body). I don't know why I was dragging so much. This training cycle has been really hard for me. I think part of it is the Boards. I know that the training is a lot of time, but it's keeping me sane and not a danger to myself or others. I just have to let the bad days go. I guess I shouldn't compare it to the summer when the weather is better, and I have much more time to complete the training. It's ok to have a crappy training cycle right?

February 16, 2009

I met Danielle for an excellent run on the Lakefront path. She's such a frickin' rock star because she had run 4 miles this morning, and then met me later in the day to run another 7! She's my hero!! Any who, we did it in 1:20:00. I'm happy to have gotten the mid week long run out of the way already.

February 15, 2009

Melissa and I headed out to work with John. It was a tough day. I was tight and my ankle was hurting (I think the ankle was from wearing heels last night). John, again, wanted me to box. It did not end well. Fortunately, once I calmed down, he just let me kick. After a whole bunch of abs, I did 4 miles on the elliptical.

February 14, 2009

Long run day! 11 miles on the Lakefront Path. It sucked to run back into the wind, so of course I was singing to try to help me get through it. I'm glad that it was only 11- total time 2:04:40.

February 12, 2009

I had off work today. It was lovely! I ran to the gym (yep, ran) 3.15 miles and then worked with Hector. I liked the run, work out, run format. I ran home after Hector kill my arms for a total of 6.3 mile, plus an hour of weight training.

February 10, 2009

I went to see Hector today. After a good stretch he we did EVERYTHING, including a whole lot of arms. I need to get to bed sooner or something, because after he gets through with me I just don't want to run. :(

February 8, 2009

Today at the gym I was so unfocused. When I'm not feeling well, I have a hard time balancing having a life, recovering and working out. I went out with Danielle last night and had a beer (yes, just one). And I was home around 11:30. I probably should have been in bed earlier...but I like seeing people. I'm still stuffy. Come on, cold--go away already!!

Anywho, I started on the treadmill, but I was weaving. And due to my fear of being shot off one of those things, I moved to the elliptical for a total of 4 miles. I'm glad that I didn't know my mileage totals for the week, because I probably would have pushed for 6 if I had known what I really should have been doing. But I did the first on the treadmill at an 11:19 and the last 3 on the elliptical at a 12:00-ish pace. It seemed so hard today. I just wasn't feeling it.

Then John kicked all our asses...and by all I mean Danielle, Melissa and I. It was an arms to failure day. I hate that. "To failure" really bothers me. I just get more and more pissed off and frustrated. I could feel myself holding back tears at several points during the work out. Not because I was in pain, but because my body was just tired and my brain wanted to force it to keep going and it just wouldn't go.

I did 25 minutes of yoga before I went to bed. I really need to get back in to the habit of doing that!

February 7, 2009

SO BEAUTIFUL!!! I can't believe it's almost 50 degrees on a morning in early February!!!

This morning was 7 miles on the Lakefront Path. I am still congested, but not so badly that I couldn't run. 7 miles in 1:21:34. It was a good run, but I'm pretty tired...it's time for a shower and a nap.

February 5, 2009

I've been to bed before 8:30 everyday this week, but I do feel like I'm on the mend. I saw Hector for some stretching and an arm/core day. It was a really good work out. The work out was good, but I was pretty tired after it, and could only do a mile :( (Julia, this is where you insert words of encouragement!!)

The only reason that I made it passed 8:30 tonight is that I got sucked in to Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice.

February 3, 2009

I met Hector today. I'm still draggin'. We did lower back and some other stuff. I didn't run. I came home, I showered, and I'm going to bed.

February 1, 2009

I went to Melissa's gym today to work out with her and John. I probably should have slept, because after we got home I needed a nap before I could drive home.

We started with hill intervals. I lost track of total time, but we started with the treadmill at 5.0 and a 3.5 pace. Then we sprinted for 60 seconds at 6.0, 6.5, and 7 with the 3.5 recovery in between. Last we did 7.5 and 8.0 for 30 seconds, but I could barely hold on for those. It was a total of 1.15 miles. Next was step ups, and side squats followed by squats and, as Melissa calls them "Jesus Christ's".

John made me go home with out doing cardio. I was thinking about trying to do 4 more so I could have gotten the 5 mile run in for the week. But I think the nap was a better idea.

January 31, 2009

I spent all of Thursday and most of Friday sleeping due to an awful sinus infection. I woke on Saturday and felt slightly better so I dragged myself out to the CARA run. I wasn't sure I could make it 10 miles, but was very thankful that Danielle would be there too. I made about 3.6 miles total. I had hoped to make it to the North Ave. Boathouse (from Montrose) but I barely made it to Fullerton.

The good news is that I tried, instead of wondering and beating myself up. And that I actually listened instead of pushing it. I just wish I didn't get sick. :(

January 27, 2009

Melissa met me at the gym to work out with Hector and I...and the people who work at Xport suck. Melissa was really honest with them, saying she didn't want to join, but she just wanted to work out for the day. They really were dicks about it. They told her that she HAD to have a tour or that she would not be allowed to work out. It was ridiculous. So I chew them out, to no avail, and we had the stupid tour, making us 10 minutes late for my training session. It completely sucked.

Something seemed to be up with Hector...he seemed a little off. I hope that everything's ok! :*( Aside from the front desk fiasco, it was a pretty good core work out. I had a great 3 mile run in 29:25 with negative splits.

January 25, 2009

I never made it out to get a run in yesterday, so I went to the gym early and got five miles in on the treadmill. I still didn't make up last weeks run, but I did swap a this week's 3 mile for last week's 4 mile. So, if I want to make up the runs, I'd only have to make up a 3 and a 6...

Any who, I did the 5 on the treadmill and worked out with Melissa and John. I am NOT a fan of boxing. I just don't like hitting things. Kicking, however is another story. :) I hope the roundhouse kicks that were so much fun looked as cool as I thought they did! I totally felt like Chuck Norris!!

January 23, 2009

I was still at work when I found out the run tomorrow was canceled, and I HATE running on a treadmill for an extended period of time, so I decided to get my long run in today. I texted Big John, and he said he'd do 2 with me around Portage Park. I figured I could muscle through 7 more before it got too cold.

Then, Wynter made the crack that I should just run to her house. After mapping it out, it turns out that she's 7 miles away! I took her up on her offer and ran from my house to Oak Park and she and David had me over for dinner! It was pretty motivating to run to someones house to be on time for dinner. It was a nice run...except for the people who haven't shoveled in weeks (bastards!!).

The only problem (aside from unshoveled snow) was that as I was running south on Narragansset, I got stopped by a train! At first it was just a Metra, no biggie. But as the Metra was pulling out, the gates stayed down...and lumbering down the tracks was a freight train. UGH!! I was bouncing and jogging about for 15 minutes trying to keep warm while waiting for this stupid train. I was warm enough while running, but not just standing out in winter weather in sweaty running clothes waiting for a train. This was definitely a running first. There was no where to duck in to keep warm, and it kinda sucked. Getting started again wasn't easy, but I sure was glad to get running again!

I made it to Wynter's by 5:45 after leaving my house at 3:30 (I met John at 3:30, ran 2 and then stopped back for my fuel belt, the bathroom, my windbreaker and some body glide)...I totally would have made it sooner, if it wasn't for the stupid train! And the tacos, were completely excellent. After dinner, and some Wii, Wynter drove me home. I totally need to measure distances to other friend's houses, make them feed me and then have them drive me home! (Seriously--if you reading this, you could be with in target distance...)

January 22, 2009

After yesterday's rest day, I really felt much better. I went to see Hector and he did arms and core. I also ran 4 miles on the treadmill in 46:30.

I'm trying to make up the two runs from last week that I missed. I know, I know...just let it go... you're not supposed to make up runs...blah, blah, blah...But when do I ever take my own advice? I figure if I can get the 5 in tomorrow after work and the 3 in on Sunday, I'm only behind a 6 miler. The only problem is that it's so freakin' cold out, it's really hard to run outside, and I hate being on the treadmill for an extended period of time. Maybe I need to figure out which Xport has the treadmills with the individual tvs so I can watch an entire movie to make up my runs!

January 20, 2009

...and the soreness has set in. I think the combo of working out with Melissa and John, plus the hills with Danielle really kicked my ass. I did the hour with Hector today, but my abs and shoulders were sore. Now my legs are feeling it from Hector. I didn't do any running today, but I really need to get a run in tomorrow.

I forgot how hard it is to stay motivated when you're kicking your own ass, your trainer is kicking your ass, you have friends to kick your ass, long runs to do, a life, work, oh and those very horrible National Boards. I'm feeling stressed and wondering how on earth I'm going to get it all done. (My house is also a disaster...any volunteers to clean it for me would be greatly appreciated.)

January 19, 2009

Today I went with Danielle to the YMCA. We took the treadmill class...it was basically a hill run and it kicked my butt! I really need to get my butt on the incline when I use the treadmill. I know Nashville is a hilly course, and I don't want it to completely kick my butt! I did 3 miles on the treadmills during the 1/2 hour class.

What is it with me and hilly spring marathons?!

January 18, 2009

I worked out with John and Melissa today. I was kicking ass on my first set of push ups. It was an arm/ab work out kind of day. I wasn't a t-rex or anything, but still a little sore. I was still feeling a little dizzy from hitting my head on Thursday, and just wasn't motivated to run. I guess this week I missed the 4 and 6 miler. Maybe I'll make it up...then again, maybe not. :(

January 14, 2009

Back to the gym because it's so freakin' cold!! I did 3 sluggish miles at an 11:31 pace. I was gonna go for four but I was just dragging too much. I guess I got a mild case of the fuckits. I think I'm due for an easy day because my body's getting tired. Hector and I also did legs and core today.

January 13, 2009

I saw Hector today. It was clearly an arm and core day... which is good. I signed up for an International Distance triathlon, and I know I'll need it. I've also got to get back in the pool...that mile isn't going to swim itself!

I ran 3 miles... at at 10:00 pace!! But I have to say, a) it was hard and b) I took some water breaks. And by water breaks I mean, I stopped running to drink water (and catch my breath).

I'm hoping my times will get better for all my races by pushing myself on the treadmill (it worked for Danielle!). I know I can't PR every time, but I want to do the marathon on pace. And I want an official 8k PR at the Shuffle...since I forgot my chip and my watch last year! Who knows, maybe someday, I could break a 5 hour marathon...but then again, I'd probably have to stop drinking beer while I run. :(

January 11, 2009

I thought I was supposed to meet Hector this morning, but due to a misunderstanding, I didn't. I ran 4 miles on the treadmill in 42:41 and all of the miles were negative splits (11:19, 11:06, 10:54 and 9:23). I think the treadmill is good for my speed because after a couple of miles I get sick of being on it and just want to get it over with. It's the whole being bored thing.

Later in the evening, I met Melissa for a second bout at the gym. I did 30 minutes on the row machine. 5 on the stairs before a couple stared making out in front of me...HELLO!! It's the gym. I should never see tongue in the gym. I moved to the bike and got about 3 miles in in 5:00.

January 10, 2009

I'd like to say: "Holy Shit-balls!@" or "Welcome to Winter in Chicago!"

This morning was a 7 mile long run on the Lakefront Path. While the parking lot wasn't plowed, the path was fairly clear (and by fairly I mean all but about a 1/2 mile total). I also have to thank Jack for letting me borrow his truck...with out it I surely would not have made it out of the parking lot in my car!

The people in my group were total troopers! I'm so proud. The way back was tough. It was into the wind with the snow pelting our faces (my cheeks are definitely wind burned). It's much easier to run with a group when it's like this. If it wasn't for the group, I would have said "screw it, I'm going to the gym!" We finished on pace; it was a tough run, but we all made it!

January 8, 2009

It was not easy to drag myself out of my nice warm bed this morning. But I did, made it to the gym and did 3 miles on the treadmill in 33:15. I did the negative splits for each mile: 11:30, 11:19 and 10:54 (with increases through out the last mile up to 9:30). It was much less crowded at 6:30 am. I guess, if I want my time on the treadmill, I'm going to have to get up early for it.

January 7, 2009

Ok, again...Treadmill issues. I think I need to drag my carcass out of bed and get to the gym at 6 am rather than after work. Maybe then the 'big fakers' won't be there and I can do what I need to do with out wasting my time waiting for a piece of equipment.

I had to warm up on the bike. Fortunately, I wasn't waiting for Hector long and I did 1.1 miles on the bike in 3 minutes. Then Hector proceeded to kick my butt. We did mostly arms and core (my favorite!!). I think it's been almost a month since I've seen him. It was nice to catch up...and make fun of the 'big fakers' who are only going to be at the gym for a month. (In fact, some guy even stopped Hector to ask him how to get to the pool! UGH!! SERIOUSLY?!? It's through that door that's labeled "POOL" and has about a ga-zillion rules written on it!)

January 6, 2009

Well, the ellipticals that are off have finally driven me to the treadmill. This is probably a good thing, because it will make me a better runner than using the elliptical. Who knew?

I also have to rant. I hate this time of year at the gym. I actually had to wait for a treadmill. Now if my gym were always this crazy busy, I'd have no problems with this and adjust my work out time accordingly. But it's all the resolution people who are big fakers that are taking up my machines. I know most of them will be gone by mid-February. If this was a complete lifestyle change, then fine. Use the machines. But those who indulged during the holidays and now feel the need to take up my space...what the crap! Stop kidding yourself. Just go home and sit on your couch and get out of my way.

I did a quick negative split run on the treadmill (yeah me!). I started at 11:31 and cut it down to 11:19 at about 3/4 of a mile. I ran the next 1.25 miles at this pace and bumped it up to 10:54 for the finish with a little faster at the end. I finished my 3 miles in 33:24.

January 4, 2009

This morning I went to the gym again with Melissa. After a 1/2 mile warm up, John kicked both of our asses with arms. I actually liked it to day. It was challenging, but unlike last time, I don't feel that I'm walking around like a T-rex because my arms are so sore.

I finished my training run for a total of 3 miles and a total time of 31:00 for the 3 miles. I also had some extra time, so I did 6 minutes on the stair machine and did 25 floors. I really need to get back in to the stair climbing (the Hustle is coming up!!) and swimming again. Here's hoping I stay motivated!!(unlike last month!)

January 3, 2009

Today was the first day of CARA's Marathon Group Training! It was a bit chilly (upper 20's) to start, but once we got started it was a nice day for a run. There were about 8 people looking to run with the 12's both newbies and old faces. We did the 5 miles in 1:00:52 (again, an almost perfect pace!).

I even got a complement from one of my summer runners who moved up in pace. He told some newbies in his group that if they had questions, they should slow down and run with me because I'd be able to offer tips and advise. I was very flattered that he had said that. All in all, it was a good day to run!